This article explores who owns CNN and the list of shareholders and competitors.
Let’s find out…
CNN is one of the most recognized news networks in the world, known for its 24-hour news coverage and global reach. It has played a major role in shaping public opinion and delivering breaking news.
Understanding its ownership structure helps in understanding the network’s editorial decisions and business strategies.
History of CNN
CNN (Cable News Network) was founded in 1980 by media mogul Ted Turner. It was the first television channel to provide 24-hour news coverage, revolutionizing the media industry.
CNN expanded its operations globally, launching multiple international channels and digital platforms. It has covered major world events, including the Gulf War, 9/11 attacks, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 1996, CNN became part of Time Warner following a merger. Later, Time Warner was acquired by AT&T in 2018 and renamed WarnerMedia.
In 2022, CNN’s ownership changed once again when WarnerMedia merged with Discovery, Inc. to form Warner Bros. Discovery.
Who Owns CNN?
CNN is owned by Warner Bros. Discovery, a global media and entertainment conglomerate. Warner Bros. Discovery took control of CNN after the 2022 merger between WarnerMedia and Discovery, Inc.
This deal created one of the largest media companies in the world, bringing together assets from both entities, including CNN, HBO, Discovery Channel, and Warner Bros. Studios.
CNN Investors & Shareholders
CNN’s ownership is divided among several key shareholders who hold stakes in Warner Bros. Discovery.
| Rank | Shareholder | Percentage of Shares Held | Role/Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vanguard Group, Inc. | ~10.5% | Largest institutional investor; provides index funds and ETFs. |
| 2 | BlackRock, Inc. | ~8.2% | Global asset manager; offers investment management and risk management services. |
| 3 | State Street Corporation | ~5.8% | Provides financial services and investment management. |
| 4 | Fidelity Investments | ~4.5% | Mutual fund giant; offers investment management and brokerage services. |
| 5 | Capital Research & Management Co. | ~3.9% | Investment management firm; manages the Growth Fund of America. |
| 6 | Geode Capital Management | ~2.1% | Institutional investor specializing in index funds and quantitative strategies. |
| 7 | T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. | ~1.8% | Investment management firm; offers mutual funds and retirement planning services. |
| 8 | Morgan Stanley | ~1.6% | Global financial services firm; provides investment banking and wealth management. |
| 9 | Bank of America Corporation | ~1.4% | Financial institution; offers banking and investment services. |
| 10 | Northern Trust Corporation | ~1.2% | Provides asset management and financial services. |
Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) – Majority Owner
Warner Bros. Discovery owns CNN and controls its operations. As the parent company, it oversees CNN’s strategic direction, editorial policies, and financial performance.
Vanguard Group – 10.5%
Vanguard Group, one of the largest asset management firms in the world, holds a 10.5% stake in Warner Bros. Discovery. Vanguard influences CNN’s business operations by participating in key corporate decisions and financial strategies.
BlackRock – 8.2%
BlackRock, another global investment management firm, owns 8.2% of Warner Bros. Discovery. It plays a role in corporate governance and investment decisions that indirectly affect CNN’s long-term strategies.
State Street Corporation – 5.8%
State Street Corporation holds a 5.8% stake in Warner Bros. Discovery. It is a major institutional investor and contributes to shareholder voting on key business matters.
Fidelity Investments – 4.5%
Fidelity’s involvement reflects its confidence in Warner Bros. Discovery’s growth potential, particularly in the media and entertainment sectors.
Capital Research & Management Co. – 3.9%
Known for its active investment strategies, Capital Research plays a crucial role in advising the company on strategic initiatives.
Why CNN Does Not Have Direct Shareholders?
CNN is not an independent publicly traded company. It operates as a division of Warner Bros. Discovery, which means its financial performance and strategic decisions are governed by the parent company. Therefore, the shareholders of Warner Bros. Discovery are the ultimate stakeholders of CNN.
Who Controls CNN?
CNN’s control lies in the hands of Warner Bros. Discovery and its executive leadership team. The parent company oversees major strategic decisions, including content direction, financial management, and global expansion efforts.
Warner Bros. Discovery’s board of directors and executive leadership play a crucial role in setting CNN’s editorial tone and operational framework. The network’s leadership ensures that CNN maintains journalistic integrity while aligning with the broader business goals of Warner Bros. Discovery.
Role of the Board and Investors
The Warner Bros. Discovery board of directors, which includes executives from various industries, oversees CNN’s strategic decisions. Major institutional investors, such as Vanguard, BlackRock, and State Street, also have indirect influence through their stakes in the company. Their investment decisions can impact CNN’s financial performance, corporate structure, and long-term goals.
CEO and Leadership Team
CNN’s CEO manages the network’s day-to-day operations, ensuring that programming, editorial standards, and digital initiatives align with the company’s overall mission. The leadership team, including editors and senior executives, plays a crucial role in decision-making and content strategy. They work closely with Warner Bros. Discovery executives to drive revenue growth and audience engagement.
Annual Revenue and Net Worth of CNN
CNN generates significant revenue through advertising, subscription fees, and digital platforms. Its financial performance reflects its influence in the global news industry. Below is a breakdown of CNN’s historical revenue and net worth:
- 2018 – Revenue stood at approximately $2.8 billion, driven by cable subscriptions and digital advertising.
- 2020 – Estimated revenue reached $3.2 billion due to increased viewership during the U.S. presidential election and the COVID-19 pandemic.
- 2022 – CNN generated around $2.6 billion in revenue, facing a decline due to shifts in the media landscape and declining cable subscriptions.
- 2024 – As of the latest data, CNN’s estimated annual revenue is between $2.5 billion and $2.8 billion, with a net worth ranging between $5 billion and $7 billion.
Market Share and Competitors
CNN holds a strong position in the global news market, competing with other major news networks.
Fox News – 43% Market Share
Fox News dominates the U.S. cable news market with around 43% market share. It has a strong conservative audience and generates high ratings, making it CNN’s top competitor. Fox News benefits from a loyal viewership base and a strategic focus on political commentary.
MSNBC – 29% Market Share
MSNBC holds a 29% market share in the cable news industry. It focuses on progressive political coverage and competes closely with CNN for liberal and centrist viewers. The network has gained popularity with opinion-based news programming.
BBC News – 10% Market Share
BBC News has a global presence and holds about 10% of the market. It competes with CNN in international news coverage and is known for its in-depth reporting and worldwide correspondents.
Bloomberg – 5% Market Share
Bloomberg focuses on financial and business news, holding a 5% share in the industry. It competes with CNN in economic and market-related coverage, catering to professionals and investors.
CBS News – 4% Market Share
CBS News is a significant competitor with a 4% market share, offering a mix of investigative journalism and traditional news programming.
Brands Owned by Warner Bros. Discovery
Warner Bros. Discovery owns a vast media empire beyond CNN. Some of its key brands include:
HBO
A premium television network producing hit series like Game of Thrones, Succession, and The Last of Us. HBO Max, now rebranded as Max, is its flagship streaming service offering a vast library of content.
Warner Bros. Studios
A leading film and television studio producing major franchises like Harry Potter, The Dark Knight, and Fantastic Beasts. It is a powerhouse in both theatrical and streaming content production.
Discovery Channel
A renowned network known for high-quality educational documentaries and reality-based programming, featuring shows like Deadliest Catch and Gold Rush.
DC Entertainment
Responsible for managing the DC Universe, including superhero franchises like Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman. It produces blockbuster films, TV series, and comic books.
TNT and TBS
These major cable networks broadcast sports, dramas, and comedy shows, including NBA games and original scripted series.
Food Network
A top culinary content network producing popular cooking shows, competitions, and lifestyle programs such as Chopped and Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.
HGTV
A leading home improvement and real estate-focused network featuring hit shows like Fixer Upper and Property Brothers.
Cartoon Network & Adult Swim
A leading animation network offering a mix of children’s programming and adult-oriented content such as Rick and Morty and Primal.
Conclusion
CNN is a major force in global news media, owned and controlled by Warner Bros. Discovery. With strong institutional investors, strategic leadership, and a well-established presence, CNN continues to be a key player in the news industry.
FAQs
Who founded CNN?
CNN was founded by Ted Turner in 1980.
Who owns CNN in 2024?
CNN is owned by Warner Bros. Discovery.
What is CNN’s annual revenue?
As of 2024, CNN’s estimated annual revenue is between $2.5 billion and $2.8 billion.
Who are CNN’s major competitors?
CNN’s major competitors include Fox News, MSNBC, BBC News, and Bloomberg.
What companies does Warner Bros. Discovery own?
Warner Bros. Discovery owns HBO, Warner Bros. Studios, Discovery Channel, DC Entertainment, and many other media assets.