For a few weeks now, a supposed merger between Apple and Disney has been discussed among the media and economic analysts. The reasons of course come from monetary losses and economic figures that do not notice the expected results. In this scenario, the one who is having a hard time is undoubtedly the Mickey Mouse company (via), which has registered losses of up to almost $1.47 billion dollars in its market for streaming. In addition to the fact that its shares fell by up to a minimum 13.16% of their previous value during the last two years.
Although some analysts affirm that the outlook seems to be much better during 2023, the company has already taken action in this regard. In a surprise move, in which there wasn’t much announcement or speculation, Disney CEO Bob Chapek gave thanks and stepped out of the big seat. In his place, Bob Iger, who was CEO of the company from 2005 to 2020, returned to the ring. During his management, important and visionary things happened, such as the purchase of Marvel Studios, LucasFilms, or Pixar. Also the launch of Disney Plus.
However, in recent years several of the company’s productions have not given the expected results. The most recent case is that of the new animated film a strange world which became the most historic box office flop of recent times. It only managed to gross just over $18 million in the US market, against its nearly $140 million budget.
Iger’s return is celebrated by both employees and economic analysts. Upon his return, the -again- president of Disney categorically ruled out that the company plans to be handed over to Apple. Instead he asserted that “there is a lot to do” and that includes keeping in place the hiring freeze that his predecessor imposed earlier this year. He also confirmed that there are no plans to execute any major acquisition in recent times.
Where does the rumor of Apple and the purchase of Disney come from?
It is a rumor of many years that from time to time gains strength. This time it made the headlines again because it is clear that Disney is going through a difficult period. The return of Bob Iger to the presidential chair is quite a movement that confirms that he takes these types of drastic measures.
On the other hand, the relationship between Apple and Disney is not exactly bad. Rather the complete opposite. You will remember that a few years ago Disney acquired the Pixar brand and the seller of course was Steve Jobs. As part of the agreements of that business, Jobs obtained some shares of Disney, which made him the largest single shareholder in the firm.
Bob Iger also obtained a place on the board of directors of Apple (via). The two companies operate in a similar way, so the merger itself does not seem like a bad idea and even points to beneficial results. Although Apple year after year expands its brands related, above all, to its mobile devices, with this purchase it would benefit from something it does not have: possibilities of income from other sources that are not only its gadgets.
However, some media reinforce the idea that the acquisition will not be of the entire company. But only of some of its brands. So now the rumors suggest that Marvel, Star Wars or even certain divisions of 20th Century Studios can change houses.
Luis Angel H. Mora My most stable relationship is with the movies, parties and music. I love writing about cinema, meeting new people and sharing ideas. Idealistic in every way, I guess that’s my Ascendant Aquarian trait.