When it comes to retransmission consent impasses, direct broadcast satellite service provider Dish has been involved in some of the nastiest, prolonged disputes in recent years. Among the companies impacted are Nexstar Media Group and Hearst Television.
Don’t think for a minute that the absence of over-the-air TV channels on Dish’s lineups isn’t a big deal. Pay TV subscriber rolls dipped in Q3, leading to a surprise loss in the quarter. If that wasn’t enough, Dish’s Chief Executive Officer revealed he’s stepping down as part of a planned merger with EchoStar.
Investors revolted, sending Dish shares down to a value some $40 per share less than where they were in August 2021.
