CEE Market Shifts Focus to Profitability, Hybrid Models Amid Diversity
Sanja Božić Ljubičić, CEO and founder of NEM Dubrovnik, highlights significant opportunities within the Central and Eastern European (CEE) media market, driven by resilient pay-TV and a growing streaming sector. NEM Dubrovnik 2026 will focus on industry transformation, hybrid content distribution models, and the increasing role of local content and profitability. Key themes include evolving broadcaster-streamer partnerships, consolidation, AI in content discovery, and flexible monetization strategies.
Key Takeaways
- CEE media industry transitioned from subscriber growth to prioritizing profitability and efficiency over the past 12 months.
- Hybrid distribution models are becoming standard, combining OTT with resilient pay-TV, cable, and telco networks.
- Broadcaster-streamer partnerships, increased consolidation, and AI for content discovery are shaping the market.
- Local content has strengthened its position as a key differentiator and driver of audience engagement in CEE.
- NEM Dubrovnik 2026 will focus on industry transformation, new distribution/monetization paths, and leadership dynamics.
Why It Matters
The CEE market's shift towards profitability and hybrid models signals a mature-yet-diverse landscape for streaming companies. International players must adapt by integrating with local pay-TV and telecom operators, focusing on deep localization, and adopting flexible monetization strategies across SVOD, AVOD, and aggregation. This approach contrasts with Western markets often prioritizing pure-play streaming growth. Industry executives should observe how Western streamers adapt their strategies for CEE to balance growth with sustained profitability, particularly through deeper regional partnerships and local content investment.
Read full article at broadcastnow.co.uk
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