Universal Music Group (UMG) announced Q1 2026 results with revenue of €2.9 billion, flat year-over-year but up 8.1% in constant currency, driven by the Downtown Music acquisition, Streaming 2.0 pricing benefits, strong physical sales, and synchronization income. Adjusted EBITDA declined 3.8% year-over-year but rose 3.9% in constant currency. UMG also increased its share buyback authorization to €1 billion and plans to monetize half of its Spotify stake, aiming to enhance shareholder value while investing in growth. The company highlighted growth in Recorded Music subscriptions and Music Publishing, despite some margin pressures from acquisitions and strategic investments.
Spotify Technology SA is forecasted to deliver steady second-quarter results, with Jefferies maintaining a positive long-term outlook and a $600 price target. The investment bank expects gross margins around 33.1%, revenue growth of 15% year-over-yea...
Spotify has extended its "Managed Accounts" feature, allowing parents to control their children's music listening, to its free tier in the U.S., U.K., Australia, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. Previously available only to paid subscribers, thi...
Spotify has introduced a new AI-powered chat feature for Premium users in the U.S., Ireland, and Sweden, allowing interactive conversations to select music, podcasts, or audiobooks. Available on iOS and Android for users 18+, the beta release lets us...
