Fubo TV has experienced a notable increase in subscribers and revenue, despite facing significant financial losses. In the fourth quarter of 2024, the streaming service saw a four percent rise in its subscriber base and an eight percent growth in quarterly revenue compared to the previous year. Despite these positive trends, Fubo still incurred substantial losses, although they have decreased from earlier periods. The company is also preparing for a major merger with Hulu + Live TV, pending approvals, which could reshape its future operations.
The streaming platform has made strides in attracting new customers and boosting its financial performance. By the end of the fourth quarter, Fubo TV reported a total of 1.676 million paid subscribers, marking an increase from previous quarters. This growth reflects successful strategies implemented by the company to enhance user engagement. Additionally, the annual revenue reached nearly $1.59 billion, representing a 19 percent increase from the previous year, while the quarterly revenue climbed to $433.8 million, up eight percent from the same period last year.
These improvements highlight the company's ability to attract and retain subscribers through competitive offerings. Fubo TV's focus on live sports content has been particularly effective in drawing in sports enthusiasts. However, challenges remain as the company seeks to expand its content library and address gaps in its programming. For instance, the absence of Warner Bros. Discovery content means that NBA and MLB games are not available on the platform, which could deter some potential subscribers. Nonetheless, Fubo TV's efforts have yielded tangible results, positioning it as a formidable player in the streaming market.
Despite the impressive subscriber and revenue growth, Fubo TV continues to grapple with substantial financial losses. The company reported a net loss of nearly $178 million for the year, a significant sum that would be unsustainable for many businesses. However, this represents an improvement over the previous year, with losses reduced by over $115 million. This progress suggests that Fubo TV is gradually moving toward profitability, albeit at a slower pace than initially anticipated.
The proposed merger with Hulu + Live TV, under Disney's ownership, presents a pivotal opportunity for Fubo TV to strengthen its position in the market. Pending shareholder and regulatory approval, the merger would create a new entity to manage both brands, allowing them to operate independently while benefiting from shared resources and expertise. This strategic move aims to streamline operations and enhance the overall value proposition for subscribers. Moreover, Fubo TV recently adjusted its pricing structure, with the cheapest plan now costing $85. While this increase may impact affordability, it aligns with industry trends and reflects the growing costs associated with providing high-quality live streaming services. As Fubo TV continues to evolve, it must balance its expansion efforts with financial sustainability to ensure long-term success.