Highlights
News Corp (NASDAQ:NWSA) reported higher net income and earnings during Q3 FY2025
Growth recorded in Dow Jones, Digital Real Estate Services, and Book Publishing segments
Foxtel sale finalised with shareholder loan repayment and strategic equity stake secured
News Corp (NASDAQ:NWSA), a prominent entity in the global media and publishing sector, operates in parallel with benchmark indices such as the Nasdaq Composite and has relevant sector comparisons with the asx 200. The company’s third-quarter financial update reflects broader shifts in digital media consumption and strategic portfolio adjustments across its global assets.
Segment Expansion in Dow Jones
Dow Jones revenue experienced uplift driven by digital subscriptions and increased engagement in professional information services. A marked increase was observed in performance from the Risk & Compliance division and Dow Jones Energy. Consumer digital subscriptions continued to rise, with digital formats forming a larger share of total circulation revenues. The overall subscriber base showed incremental growth, with digital-only subscriptions forming a substantial portion of the total figure.
Digital Real Estate Services Performance
Digital Real Estate Services, which includes REA Group and Move, posted revenue expansion despite minor foreign currency impacts. REA Group, a significant contributor, reported a notable increase in performance. This segment experienced gains in earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation, supported by operational efficiencies and content-led engagement strategies. Adjusted earnings metrics also showed growth, reflecting business realignment and digital transformation focus.
Publishing Revenue Trends
The Book Publishing segment recorded higher revenue driven by continued interest in backlisted titles and digital audio formats. Several literary works contributed positively, and digital formats continued to account for a growing portion of consumer revenue. The segment’s earnings improved alongside increased distribution through digital channels.
News Media Business Update
Revenue in the News Media segment declined, largely attributed to advertising reductions and operational changes, including adjustments in printing contracts within the UK. However, earnings for the segment saw an uplift due to cost control measures and improved operational structures. Digital contributions to overall revenue increased year-over-year, reflecting the ongoing transition from print to online media formats.
Subscriber Metrics Across Markets
News Corp Australia saw incremental growth in its digital subscription base. The Times and Sunday Times also reported subscriber expansion. However, audience figures declined for The Sun and New York Post digital platforms, with reductions in monthly unique users over the comparable period. This divergence highlights shifting audience preferences across different media brands.
Strategic Corporate Activity
In April 2025, News Corp completed the sale of Foxtel to DAZN, resulting in the repayment of shareholder loans and the acquisition of an equity interest in DAZN. The transaction is aligned with the company’s ongoing strategic transformation and resource optimisation. This divestiture is part of a broader realignment aimed at enhancing operational scale in core growth segments.
Cash Flow Developments
The company reported an increase in free cash flow over the nine-month period ending March 2025. Operating cash flows rose, contributing to improved liquidity. The outcome reflects efficient cost controls and improved revenue quality across digital-driven segments.
Digital Focus and Operational Priorities
News Corp’s consistent focus on digital subscriptions, professional content services, and platform efficiency remains central to its growth model. Continued transformation initiatives, including portfolio realignment and technological integration, support the ongoing evolution of the business in line with sector-wide digitalisation trends.