31 May 2022

Sky Network Television refuses to comment on takeover speculation

11:34 am on 31 May 2022

A potential takeover of Sky Network Television could be in the works as a couple of Australian private equity groups have been approached to take a fresh look.

Sky TV generic

Photo: Supplied / Richard Parsonson

The Australian Financial Review reported Sky's bankers had tapped a couple of deep-pocket investors who could be tempted with a $500 million-plus buyout of the pay TV operator.

"We never comment on speculation," Sky TV chief corporate affairs officer Chris Major said.

However, in a market update earlier this month, the company said it was deferring any further update on its strategy and capital spending until the release of its full year results in August.

Sky reported first half revenue growth for the first time in six years for the period ended December, and planned to resume dividends.

The company said first half net profit fell by a quarter to just over $28m, as it was spending more to secure broadcast rights for programmes and sports events.

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