Will concessions smooth the path for Reliance-Disney’s $8.5 billion mega merger?

The $8.5 billion merger between Reliance Industries, Viacom18, and Star India is under intense scrutiny by the Competition Commission of India (CCI) due to concerns about potential monopolistic control over cricket broadcasting rights and digital streaming. The merger would create India’s largest entertainment conglomerate. To address CCI’s concerns, the companies have proposed selling fewer than 10 regional TV channels but refuse to divest cricket broadcasting rights. The outcome hinges on satisfying CCI’s demands, potentially avoiding a Phase 2 investigation.