CCI approves Reliance-owned Viacom 18 and Disney’s $8.5 billion merger deal

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the merger between the local unit of The Walt Disney Company, Disney Star and Reliance Industries-owned Viacom 18. The competition watchdog’s approval came with the condition that both companies make some voluntary modifications to address potential competition concerns. Valued at $8.5 billion, this merger is set to become the largest deal in India’s media and entertainment sector and will create a major entertainment network as both Disney and Reliance Industries combine their vast content libraries and distribution channels.