3 Media Stocks in Focus: News Corp.’s Slowing Ads, Time Warner Cable’s Internet Crusade, and Gannett’s Big Purchase

News Corp. (NASDAQ:NWSA): Despite rates increasing 5 to 7 percent, total ad commitments for Fox’s upcoming season starting in September have apparently fallen by about 10 percent, to $1.75 billion. The decrease comes off a 21 percent slide in ratings from the season that just ended — and the amount obtained falls well below CBS’ (NYSE:CBS) $2.7 billion.

Time Warner Cable (NYSE:TWC): With broadcasters up in arms about the sweeping prevalence of Internet streaming and licensing issues, Time Warner Cable appears to be one of the most bloodthirsty of the lot. Through the use of financial incentives and penalties, and contract clauses, the companies are attempting to prevent media companies from selling their content and the sale of channels to Internet distributors.

Gannett (NYSE:GCI): Shares of Gannett are ripping over 20 percent on the news that it purchased Belo (NYSE:BLC), for $13.75 per share in a $1.5 billion deal which will almost double Gannett’s broadcast portfolio of stations. The full transaction will most likely be completed in full by the end of the year.

Don’t Miss: Gannett Has TV On Its Mind.