Disney's Strategic Moves: Equity Deals, Asset Sales, and Streaming Services

Disney is in talks with the NFL and NBA to explore an equity deal for ESPN as the entertainment giant faces financial challenges. While no deal has been signed, Disney sees a partnership with the sports leagues as a potential solution to improve results. Analysts suggest that potential buyers for ESPN could include the major sports leagues, technology partners like Amazon or Apple, and distribution partners like Comcast or Verizon. The NFL and NBA already have billion-dollar partnerships with Disney and ESPN, making a deal financially sensible. ESPN is also interested in securing more exclusive content from sports leagues. However, if the NFL and NBA acquire an equity stake in ESPN, it could create resentment among other media partners. Wall Street analysts estimate ESPN's worth to be between $25 billion and $30 billion.