RTL Group has reported a significant milestone in its streaming business, exceeding seven million paying subscribers in the first quarter of 2025.
This 18.5% year-over-year increase brings the total to 7.1 million subscribers across its platforms in Germany, France, and Hungary. The surge in subscribers contributed to a 29.1% rise in streaming revenue, reaching €111 million for the quarter.
The growth in streaming has effectively offset declines in traditional TV advertising revenue, which fell by 4% to €507 million. Conversely, digital advertising revenue saw a substantial increase of 28.8%, totalling €103 million. Overall, the group’s total advertising revenue remained stable at €685 million.
Group revenue for the quarter stood at €1.292 billion, a slight decrease from €1.318 billion in the same period last year, primarily due to reduced content revenue from production subsidiary Fremantle and lower TV advertising income.
“RTL Group had a solid start into 2025. Paying streaming subscribers were up 18%, exceeding the seven million mark. Streaming and digital advertising revenue each grew by 29%, offsetting lower TV advertising revenue. We are firmly on track for streaming profitability in 2026,” said CEO Thomas Rabe.
In line with its strategic objectives, RTL Group anticipates full-year 2025 adjusted EBITA to increase to approximately €780 million, driven by the continued growth in streaming and digital advertising revenues.
Additionally, the company expects to obtain regulatory approvals for the sale of RTL Nederland to DPG Media in the second quarter of 2025, further aligning with its focus on core markets and digital transformation.
