Who Owns Sinclair Broadcast Group

Who Owns Sinclair Broadcast Group: Top Shareholders

Sinclair Broadcast Group is one of the largest media companies in the United States. People often ask who owns Sinclair, given its massive influence in broadcasting, local news, and digital platforms. The company has grown rapidly over the years and today operates hundreds of television stations across the country.

Table of Contents

Sinclair Company Profile

Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. is one of the largest television broadcasting companies in the United States. Headquartered in Cockeysville, Maryland, it operates 193 television stations across more than 100 markets, reaching about 40% of U.S. households in 2025.

The company trades on NASDAQ under the ticker symbol SBGI and maintains a market capitalization of around $1.04 billion, with annual revenue near $3.5 billion. Sinclair’s business spans local TV stations, regional sports networks, multicast channels such as Comet, Charge!, The Nest, and Roar, as well as digital ventures like the Tennis Channel and streaming services.

Founders

Sinclair was founded in 1971 by Julian Sinclair Smith, a communications engineer who launched WBFF-TV in Baltimore. After his passing, the company’s leadership passed to his sons—David D. Smith, Frederick G. Smith, J. Duncan Smith, and Robert E. Smith—who remain deeply involved in operations and ownership. Their strategic vision shaped Sinclair into a national broadcast powerhouse.

Major Milestones

  • 1971: Julian Sinclair Smith launches WBFF-TV in Baltimore, the company’s first UHF station.
  • 1986: Consolidation of family holdings forms Sinclair Broadcast Group.
  • 1995: Sinclair goes public on NASDAQ, using funds to expand rapidly.
  • 1996 onward: Expansion accelerates after the Telecommunications Act allows greater station ownership.
  • 2014: Launch of the American Sports Network, increasing its reach into sports programming.
  • 2019: Acquisition of Fox Sports Networks (later rebranded Bally Sports), plus the launch of Marquee Sports Network with the Chicago Cubs.
  • 2023–2024: Sinclair grows digital assets, strengthens multicast brands, and expands ATSC 3.0 “NextGen TV” broadcasts.
  • 2025: Reports revenue of over $3.5 billion. Launches new NextGen TV stations, expands distribution of The Nest, Charge!, Comet, and Roar on platforms like YouTube TV, and begins a strategic review to potentially spin off its Ventures division, including Tennis Channel and Digital Remedy.

Who Owns Sinclair Broadcast Group: Major Shareholders

Who Owns Sinclair Broadcast Group (Largest Shareholders)

Sinclair Broadcast Group is a publicly traded company listed on NASDAQ under the ticker symbol SBGI. While it is a public company, the Smith family, descendants of the founder Julian Sinclair Smith, remain the largest and most influential shareholders.

The Smith family—heirs of founder Julian Sinclair Smith—continues to hold central control over Sinclair Broadcast Group. They retain a commanding position through ownership of high-voting Class B shares. This structure gives them outsized influence over corporate decisions, board appointments, and strategic direction, despite not necessarily holding a majority of the economic equity.

Here’s an overview of the ownership structure of Sinclair Broadcast Group:

  • Smith family: Maintains operational and board control through governance rights.
  • Large institutions (Gamco, Vanguard, BlackRock): Influence via board engagement and voting power.
  • Index funds and ETFs: Provide stability and liquidity; less likely to influence strategy actively.
  • Mid-size and hedge fund investors: Potentially active; may influence specific initiatives or strategic direction.

Below is a list of the largest shareholders of Sinclair as of August 2025:

ShareholderTypePercentage OwnershipDetails & Influence
Smith Family (Founders)Family / Class B Voting Shares~60–70% voting control (lower % economic ownership)Descendants of Julian Sinclair Smith retain control through high-vote Class B shares. They exercise outsized influence on corporate decisions, ensuring the company remains family-driven despite being publicly traded.
Gamco Investors, Inc.Institutional5.54%Longtime holder led by Mario Gabelli. Known for activist stances in media companies. Holds one of the largest institutional blocks of Sinclair.
Vanguard Group, Inc.Institutional5.48%One of the largest passive investors through index funds and ETFs. Provides liquidity and steady support but exerts limited direct influence.
BlackRock, Inc.Institutional3.92%Major global asset manager. Holds Sinclair through multiple ETFs and mutual funds. Significant passive voting power in shareholder meetings.
Capital Management Corp (Virginia)Institutional2.43%Smaller active manager with a concentrated interest in Sinclair. Holds enough to be considered a mid-sized but notable player.
Dimensional Fund Advisors, LPInstitutional1.92%Quant-driven investment firm. Provides broad exposure to Sinclair via factor-based strategies. Limited active involvement.
Gabelli Funds, LLCInstitutional1.71%Related to Gamco. Reinforces Gabelli’s presence as a key institutional backer of Sinclair.
Empyrean Capital Partners, LPHedge Fund1.70%Hedge fund with a reputation for opportunistic investments. May exert pressure if Sinclair underperforms.
Geode Capital Management, LLCInstitutional1.25%Sub-advisor for Fidelity index funds. Passive investor with indirect control.
State Street CorporationInstitutional1.19%Major custodian bank and asset manager. Passive stakeholder holding Sinclair through ETFs and funds.
Charles Schwab Investment Management, Inc.Institutional1.06%Manages retail-focused mutual funds. Small but steady influence through index exposure.
American Financial Group, Inc.Corporate Investor0.98%Insurance and financial services company. Holds Sinclair as part of a broader investment portfolio.
Schonfeld Strategic Advisors, LLCHedge Fund0.89%Hedge fund stake reflects short-to-medium-term positioning in Sinclair’s stock.
Vanguard Total Stock Market Index FundMutual Fund2.50%Major passive exposure vehicle, tracking the total U.S. stock market. Largest mutual fund holder of Sinclair.
GAMCO Small Company Value PortfolioMutual Fund2.41%Actively managed small-cap value fund. Strong believer in Sinclair’s undervalued potential.
iShares Russell 2000 ETFETF2.14%Widely followed ETF providing exposure to U.S. small-cap stocks. Holds Sinclair as part of its index.
Vanguard Small-Cap Index FundMutual Fund1.97%Provides passive exposure to Sinclair through small-cap allocations.
Vanguard Extended Market Index FundMutual Fund1.30%Tracks U.S. mid- and small-cap stocks beyond the S&P 500. Holds Sinclair as part of diversification.
Vanguard Small-Cap Value Index FundMutual Fund1.28%Passive vehicle focused on value stocks. Includes Sinclair as part of its portfolio.
iShares Russell 2000 Value ETFETF0.75%Tracks the small-cap value segment of the U.S. market. Maintains a modest stake in Sinclair.
Schwab Fundamental U.S. Small Company ETFETF0.72%Factor-driven ETF with exposure to Sinclair. Passive in governance.
Fidelity Small Cap Index FundMutual Fund0.71%Provides Fidelity clients small-cap exposure, including Sinclair.
Bridgeway Omni Small-Cap Value FundMutual Fund0.62%Quantitative value-focused fund. Small but consistent holder of Sinclair.
Pinnacle Associates LtdInstitutional0.81%Active institutional investor with niche focus.
Bridgeway Capital Management, LLCInstitutional0.80%Specializes in quantitative and value-driven small-cap strategies.
Carronade Capital Management, LPHedge Fund0.65%Opportunistic hedge fund position. May rotate depending on Sinclair’s market performance.
Bank of New York Mellon CorpInstitutional0.54%Custodian and asset manager with passive exposure to Sinclair.
Northern Trust CorpInstitutional0.52%Provides passive exposure through index strategies.
Goldman Sachs Group Inc.Institutional / Investment Bank0.45%Investment bank exposure via funds and trading operations.
Empowered Funds, LLCETF Manager0.37%Manager of specialized ETFs that include Sinclair in holdings.
Invesco Ltd.Institutional0.33%Global asset manager with diversified fund exposure.
Morgan StanleyInstitutional / Bank0.30%Holds Sinclair through funds and client portfolios.
ExodusPoint Capital Management, LPHedge Fund0.29%Hedge fund exposure reflects short-term positioning.
Point72 Asset Management, L.P.Hedge Fund0.28%Steve Cohen’s hedge fund. Small but strategic allocation in Sinclair.

Gamco Investors, Inc.

Gamco Investors is the largest institutional shareholder in Sinclair, holding about 5.54% of shares. This translates into millions of shares under management, giving Gamco a leading role among non-family investors. Known for its value-oriented strategy, Gamco has historically been an active investor, often influencing governance matters through proxy voting.

Vanguard Group, Inc.

Vanguard controls roughly 5.48% of Sinclair’s shares, making it one of the top institutional stakeholders. With its index fund model, Vanguard’s ownership represents both retail and institutional clients. While typically passive in management style, its large voting block gives it significant weight in shareholder decisions.

BlackRock, Inc.

BlackRock owns around 3.92% of Sinclair. As one of the world’s largest asset managers, BlackRock’s influence comes through its governance policies and its role as a long-term investor across many industries. It tends to support strategies that prioritize shareholder value while maintaining strong corporate governance standards.

Capital Management Corp (Virginia)

Capital Management Corp holds about 2.43% of Sinclair’s equity. This regional investment management firm has a smaller but still notable stake, often targeting undervalued companies in the small-cap and mid-cap space. Its position reflects confidence in Sinclair’s long-term broadcasting and digital strategy.

Dimensional Fund Advisors, LP

Dimensional owns approximately 1.92% of Sinclair. The firm specializes in systematic, research-driven investing, often focusing on small-cap companies. Its investment represents long-term portfolio diversification rather than active management.

Gabelli Funds, LLC

Gabelli Funds, managed by Mario Gabelli, controls about 1.71% of Sinclair. The firm is known for activist tendencies and value investing, meaning its stake in Sinclair is both financial and strategic. Gabelli’s position often signals confidence in Sinclair’s capacity to generate shareholder value.

Empyrean Capital Partners, LP

Empyrean Capital Partners holds 1.70% of Sinclair. As a hedge fund with an opportunistic investment style, Empyrean may look for restructuring opportunities or potential corporate actions. Its stake positions it as a potential influencer during strategic reviews or spin-off discussions.

Geode Capital Management, LLC

Geode Capital owns around 1.25% of Sinclair. As a major sub-advisor for Vanguard’s index funds, Geode’s influence is tied to passive investment strategies. Its shares represent part of the broader index-tracking exposure to Sinclair.

State Street Corporation

State Street holds about 1.19% of Sinclair. As another large index fund manager, State Street’s position ensures stable, passive ownership. It generally follows ESG and governance guidelines while casting proxy votes on behalf of clients.

Charles Schwab Investment Management, Inc.

Charles Schwab owns 1.06% of Sinclair through its various mutual funds and ETFs. Its stake reflects small-cap and value-focused fund positions. While relatively small, Schwab’s holdings add diversity to Sinclair’s shareholder base.

American Financial Group, Inc.

American Financial Group holds around 0.98%. Unlike asset managers, this is a financial services company with insurance operations. Its investment reflects a diversified portfolio strategy that includes media equities like Sinclair.

Schonfeld Strategic Advisors, LLC

Schonfeld Strategic Advisors owns 0.89% of Sinclair. As a hedge fund, Schonfeld often invests tactically, looking for short- to medium-term opportunities. Its position could play a role during periods of volatility or restructuring.

Vanguard Total Stock Market Index Fund

The Vanguard Total Stock Market Index Fund owns about 2.50% of Sinclair’s shares, which amounts to well over a million shares.

This fund tracks the entire U.S. equity market, giving investors broad exposure to companies of all sizes. Its position in Sinclair ensures that the broadcaster remains represented in diversified retirement accounts and index-linked portfolios. Although Vanguard is a passive investor, the size of this fund makes it influential in corporate governance through proxy voting.

GAMCO Small Company Value Portfolio

The GAMCO Small Company Value Portfolio controls around 2.41% of Sinclair, reflecting Mario Gabelli’s long-standing focus on undervalued smaller firms. The fund looks for companies trading below intrinsic value but with strong turnaround or long-term growth potential.

By holding several hundred thousand shares of Sinclair, GAMCO maintains both financial exposure and a voice in governance. Its ownership complements Gabelli Funds’ direct stake in the company, amplifying its overall influence.

iShares Russell 2000 ETF

BlackRock’s iShares Russell 2000 ETF holds about 2.14% of Sinclair, giving the company exposure to small-cap investors across the U.S. This ETF replicates the Russell 2000 Index, which means Sinclair is included automatically based on its market capitalization.

The stake represents millions of shares but is managed passively, meaning BlackRock is unlikely to take an activist role. Instead, its influence comes through consistent voting in shareholder meetings.

Vanguard Small-Cap Index Fund

This fund owns approximately 1.97% of Sinclair’s shares. It invests in smaller U.S. companies with long-term growth and value opportunities. With several hundred thousand shares under its control, the fund provides liquidity and helps ensure steady demand for Sinclair’s stock.

While the fund itself is not activist in nature, its holdings mean Sinclair remains firmly positioned within retail and institutional small-cap portfolios.

Vanguard Extended Market Index Fund

The Vanguard Extended Market Index Fund holds about 1.30% of Sinclair, translating into a significant stake spread across thousands of accounts. This fund includes companies not part of the S&P 500, which gives Sinclair visibility to investors looking for broader market exposure.

It strengthens Sinclair’s presence in retirement accounts and diversified mutual fund portfolios.

Vanguard Small-Cap Value Index Fund

This index fund owns around 1.28% of Sinclair, focusing specifically on undervalued small-cap stocks. Sinclair’s cyclical advertising-driven revenue and undervalued broadcast assets make it a fit for this portfolio.

With hundreds of thousands of shares, this fund’s passive stake still adds to Vanguard’s collective influence when proxy votes are cast across all its funds.

iShares Russell 2000 Value ETF

The iShares Russell 2000 Value ETF controls about 0.75% of Sinclair. This ETF invests in small-cap companies with lower valuation ratios relative to peers. Sinclair’s relatively modest market valuation compared to its revenue makes it a consistent holding. Its ownership represents broad exposure for institutional and retail investors seeking value-oriented small-cap equities.

Schwab Fundamental U.S. Small Company ETF

This Schwab ETF holds around 0.72% of Sinclair. Instead of market capitalization weighting, it uses fundamental measures like sales, cash flow, and dividends. Sinclair’s fundamentals, including its multibillion-dollar revenue and strong cash generation, make it a fit for this methodology. Its ownership represents steady, rules-based investment.

Fidelity Small Cap Index Fund

Fidelity’s Small Cap Index Fund owns about 0.71% of Sinclair, reflecting its inclusion in the U.S. small-cap universe. This holding gives Fidelity investors passive access to Sinclair’s equity without direct active management. The fund’s exposure supports market liquidity and helps maintain Sinclair’s shareholder base across diversified portfolios.

Bridgeway Omni Small-Cap Value Fund

This actively managed fund holds 0.62% of Sinclair. Bridgeway’s Omni fund focuses on undervalued small-cap firms, which aligns with Sinclair’s cyclical but asset-rich business model. Its stake represents a calculated bet that Sinclair’s shares will deliver higher long-term value compared to current market pricing.

Pinnacle Associates Ltd

Pinnacle Associates holds about 0.81% of Sinclair, managing portfolios for high-net-worth clients and institutions. Its ownership, while modest, indicates a targeted belief in Sinclair as part of its small-cap investment strategy.

Bridgeway Capital Management, LLC

Bridgeway Capital itself owns roughly 0.80% of Sinclair, separate from its Omni fund. The firm is known for quantitative investing and long-term strategies. Its holdings strengthen the presence of small-cap specialists in Sinclair’s shareholder base.

Carronade Capital Management, LP

Carronade Capital controls about 0.65%. As a hedge fund, it often positions tactically in industries undergoing change. Its investment in Sinclair likely reflects opportunities in broadcasting consolidation or digital spinoffs.

Bank of New York Mellon Corp

BNY Mellon owns about 0.54% of Sinclair. This stake reflects both custodial and asset management operations, meaning BNY Mellon represents both client portfolios and internal investment strategies.

Northern Trust Corp

Northern Trust holds around 0.52% of Sinclair. Known for conservative asset management, its presence adds long-term stability to the shareholder structure.

Goldman Sachs Group Inc.

Goldman Sachs owns about 0.45% of Sinclair, often spread across client accounts, funds, and structured products. Its investment reflects diversified exposure to the media and broadcasting sector.

Empowered Funds, LLC

Empowered Funds manages approximately 0.37% of Sinclair. Its smaller stake still adds diversity to Sinclair’s institutional base, representing specialized strategies.

Invesco Ltd.

Invesco controls about 0.33% of Sinclair’s shares. This reflects its global ETF and mutual fund businesses, giving Sinclair access to international investors.

Morgan Stanley

Morgan Stanley holds roughly 0.30%, primarily across its wealth management and fund products. Its ownership reflects broad institutional exposure rather than targeted investment.

ExodusPoint Capital Management, LP

ExodusPoint owns 0.29% of Sinclair, reflecting its multi-strategy hedge fund model. Its stake is tactical, likely driven by short-term opportunities in Sinclair’s valuation or corporate restructuring.

Point72 Asset Management, L.P.

Point72 controls about 0.28% of Sinclair. As a hedge fund led by Steven Cohen, it takes opportunistic positions across industries. Its stake in Sinclair likely reflects both valuation plays and potential corporate actions under review.

Who is the CEO of Sinclair?

The current CEO of Sinclair Broadcast Group is Chris Ripley, who took over leadership in 2017. Ripley has overseen the company’s push into digital streaming, regional sports networks, and expanded broadcasting operations. Under his leadership, Sinclair has also focused on integrating new technologies and expanding advertising solutions.

Here’s a quick overview of Chris Ripley:

CategoryDetails
PositionPresident & CEO since January 2017
Previous RoleCFO (2014–2017); UBS Investment Bank Managing Director
EducationHonors Business Administration, University of Western Ontario
Strategic ActionsCreated separate “Ventures” unit; led strategic review for spinoffs; co-launched EdgeBeam
Industry LeadershipAdvocated consolidation, technological advances, and valuation visibility
2024 Compensation$10.5 million total, 46% increase YoY
Reporting StructureOperates under Executive Chairman David D. Smith

Chris Ripley – President & CEO

Christopher S. Ripley has served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Sinclair Broadcast Group since January 2017. His rise followed a tenure as the company’s Chief Financial Officer from April 2014 to January 2017.

Prior to joining Sinclair, Ripley was a managing director within UBS Investment Bank’s Global Media Group, leading the Los Angeles office and structuring major financing and merger transactions in media and entertainment.

He began his career in investment banking, including roles at Prime Ventures and Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette. Ripley holds a Bachelor of Arts in Honors Business Administration from the University of Western Ontario.

Under Ripley’s leadership, Sinclair has pursued an ambitious strategy of diversification and technological advancement. He played a key role in restructuring the firm, creating a separate “Ventures” arm that houses assets such as the Tennis Channel and the ad-tech platform Compulse.

This shift aimed to highlight hidden value and provide strategic flexibility for spin-offs or capital raises. Ripley has emphasized the importance of scale in today’s broadcast industry—announcing a comprehensive strategic review of broadcast operations and considering the separation of Ventures to unlock shareholder value.

Key Initiatives and Industry Leadership

In 2025, Ripley continued steering Sinclair toward innovation and growth:

  • He championed the EdgeBeam joint venture, a NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0) datacasting initiative in collaboration with other major broadcast groups, aimed at delivering services like automotive updates and enhanced GPS capabilities.
  • He guided Sinclair through a challenging economic landscape, noting solid first-quarter performance in 2025 despite broader headwinds.
  • In August 2025, under his direction, the board launched a strategic review of broadcast operations, signaling readiness for acquisitions and restructuring in a shifting media environment.

Compensation and Alignment

In 2024, Ripley’s compensation reflected strong alignment with performance targets. He received a total of $10.5 million, marking a 46% increase over his 2023 pay. This included significant option awards (amounting to $5.3 million), along with salary, bonuses, and stock awards—highlighting the performance-based structure of his remuneration.

Role Within Corporate Governance

Ripley operates under the oversight of Executive Chairman David D. Smith, who transitioned into the chairman role in January 2017 after serving as CEO from 1990 to 2017. Smith continues to guide the company’s strategic path while Ripley leads day-to-day operations and long-term transformation.

Sinclair Annual Revenue and Net Worth

Sinclair Broadcast Group Annual Revenue and Net Worth (2015-25)

Sinclair Broadcast Group generated around $3.52 billion in annual revenue with quarterly revenues of about $776 million in Q1 and $784 million in Q2 2025, both slightly down from last year. Despite strong revenue, the company reported quarterly net losses due to high costs and weaker ad demand.

As of August 2025, Sinclair’s net worth (market capitalization) stands at approximately $940 million, reflecting cautious investor sentiment in a challenging media landscape.

Here’s an overview of Sinclair Broadcast Group’s historical revenue and net worth from 2015-25:

YearAnnual Revenue (USD)Market Capitalization (USD)
2015$2.21 B$1.08 B (approx.)
2016$2.73 B$1.14 B
2017$2.65 B$1.32 B
2018$3.05 B$0.94 B
2019$4.24 B$1.21 B
2020$5.94 B$1.20 B
2021$6.13 B$1.02 B
2022$3.92 B$0.63 B (approx.)
2023$3.13 B$0.57 B
2024$3.54 B$0.74 B
2025$3.52 B (TTM)$0.94 B (as of August)

Annual and Trailing Twelve-Month Revenue

In 2025, Sinclair’s annual and trailing twelve-month (TTM) revenue levels reflect the company’s ongoing journey through a shifting media landscape. The full-year revenue hovers around $3.52 billion, slightly lower than the $3.54 billion reported in 2024, representing a minor contraction in a still highly competitive industry.

Despite broader headwinds, the company maintains a solid revenue base anchored by its local broadcast operations, regional sports content, multicast networks, and digital ventures.

Quarterly Revenue Trends

Breaking down performance in 2025, Sinclair reported $776 million in revenue for Q1, marking a modest decline of nearly 3% from the same period in 2024.

The drop was attributed to the absence of election-year political advertising and strategic investments in content delivery and partnerships.

For Q2, the decline continued, with total revenue of $784 million, down approximately 5% year-over-year.

This downturn reflects the cyclical nature of political advertising, evolving consumer behavior, and the broader pressures on linear broadcast economics.

Sinclair Broadcast Group Net Worth

By August 2025, Sinclair’s estimated market capitalization—or net worth—stood at approximately $940 million (or $0.94 billion), underscoring the gap between its substantial revenue generation and the market’s valuation of its equity.

While the company still generates multi-billion-dollar topline revenue, market sentiment and investor concerns—such as high debt load and structural shifts in media—have kept valuation comparatively modest.

Sinclair’s business remains rooted in traditional broadcast strength, yet the numbers suggest growing pressure on profitability and valuation. Quarterly net losses—such as $154 million in Q1 and $64 million in Q2—reflect high fixed costs, interest expenses tied to refinancing, and the absence of political ad revenue.

Meanwhile, adjusted EBITDA margins, though depressed, still show positive movement, bringing $112 million in Q1 and $103 million in Q2—evidence of operational resilience.

Despite these challenges, Sinclair’s position remains resilient, backed by its vast station footprint, multicast networks, and emerging digital and Ventures assets. However, the market currently prices the company more conservatively—reflecting both uncertainty and investor caution.

Companies Owned by Sinclair

Sinclair Broadcast Group operates a wide range of media properties that go far beyond its local TV stations. As of 2025, Sinclair owns and manages a diverse portfolio of national networks, digital platforms, advertising technology businesses, and advanced broadcast ventures. Each brand and subsidiary plays a key role in Sinclair’s strategy to expand its audience reach, strengthen revenue streams, and innovate in the rapidly changing media landscape.

Below is a list of the major brands, subsidiaries, and companies owned by Sinclair Broadcast Group as of 2025:

Company / BrandType / CategoryYear Acquired / FoundedKey Details
Tennis ChannelCable & Streaming Network2016National network dedicated to tennis, pickleball, and racquet sports; integrated with Tennis.com and Tennis Magazine for a multi-platform sports hub.
Tennis.comDigital Platform2017Digital backbone of Sinclair’s racquet-sports strategy; provides news, rankings, match analysis, podcasts, and video; cross-promoted with Tennis Channel.
Tennis MagazinePrint & Digital Publication2017Long-form content, player profiles, gear reviews; complements Tennis Channel and Tennis.com for multi-platform audience engagement.
CometFree OTA Multicast Network2015Sci-fi and fantasy programming; available on broadcast subchannels and virtual MVPDs; saw record audience growth in 2025.
Charge!Free OTA Multicast Network2017Focused on action and adventure programming; expanded national footprint with strong ratings and advertiser demand in 2025.
Roar (formerly TBD)Free OTA Multicast NetworkTBD rebranded 2025Comedy-centric network; pivoted from viral video to half-hour and hour-long comedy shows; expanded affiliate reach across U.S. households.
The NestFree OTA Multicast Network2023Lifestyle and reality series network; expanded distribution in 2025, diversifying Sinclair’s national networks portfolio.
Digital Remedy (formerly Compulse)Advertising Technology PlatformFull acquisition 2025Ad-tech and performance media platform; specializes in CTV and omnichannel activation; serves Sinclair and non-Sinclair clients.
Sinclair Television Group (Local TV Stations)Broadcast Television NetworkOngoingOwns or operates 170+ stations across 80+ markets; affiliates include FOX, ABC, CBS, NBC, MyNetworkTV, and The CW; backbone for local news, sports, and programming.
ONE Media Technologies (ATSC 3.0/NextGen TV)Advanced Broadcast TechnologyOngoingLeads adoption of NextGen TV; develops cloud-based broadcasting workflows, mobile reception demos, and public-safety applications.
DielectricBroadcast Infrastructure Manufacturer2013Designs and manufactures RF systems and antennas; supports legacy and NextGen TV deployments; rolling out high-efficiency transmission products.
Marquee Sports NetworkRegional Sports Network / Joint Venture2020Joint venture with Chicago Cubs; broadcasts live Cubs games and team-centric programming via cable, satellite, and streaming in the Chicago market.
Multicast Network OperationsPortfolio OverviewOngoingIncludes Comet, Charge!, Roar, and The Nest; national free-to-watch networks; expanded reach and premium programming in 2025.

Tennis Channel

Tennis Channel is Sinclair’s national cable and streaming network dedicated to the sport of tennis, pickleball, and racquet sports. Sinclair acquired the channel in 2016 and later unified it with Tennis.com, Tennis Magazine, and the Tennis Media Company to create a single racquet-sports hub across TV, web, and print.

Today, the brand delivers year-round live event coverage from global tours and majors, shoulder programming, original documentaries, and a growing slate of FAST and digital extensions. It operates within Sinclair’s Ventures portfolio and remains one of the company’s signature national media assets.

Tennis.com

Tennis.com functions as the digital backbone of Sinclair’s racquet-sports strategy. Bought in through the 2017 purchase of Tennis Media Company, the site complements Tennis Channel with news, rankings, match analysis, podcasts, and video. The integration enables cross-promotion between linear and digital, unified ad products, and subscriber funnels for major events and shoulder content.

Tennis Magazine

The legacy print and digital publication joined Sinclair alongside Tennis.com in 2017. It extends Tennis Channel’s reach to long-form features, gear reviews, and player profiles, strengthening the company’s authority with audiences and advertisers across platforms. Its content is regularly leveraged on Tennis Channel and Tennis.com to drive multi-platform engagement.

Comet

Comet is Sinclair’s free, over-the-air (OTA) multicast network dedicated to sci-fi and fantasy. Distributed nationwide on digital broadcast subchannels and virtual MVPDs, Comet programs cult films, series franchises, and genre favorites. It has posted record audience growth in 2025 as Sinclair expanded affiliate coverage, improved channel placements, and added premium library titles.

Charge!

Charge! focuses on action and adventure—procedurals, classic action series, and movies—delivered as a free OTA multicast network. In 2025, Sinclair broadened its national footprint through new affiliations and virtual MVPD carriage, citing best-season-to-date ratings and stronger advertiser demand tied to the network’s clear genre positioning.

Roar (formerly TBD)

Roar is Sinclair’s rebranded comedy-centric multicast network. Formerly known as TBD, the service pivoted from short-form viral video to half-hour and hour-long comedy and sketch programming.

The renaming in April 2025 followed key library acquisitions and an expanded affiliate map that now reaches the majority of U.S. TV households via broadcast subchannels and select streaming distributors.

The Nest

Launched in 2023, The Nest is a free OTA network positioned as “comfort-food TV,” built around lifestyle and reality series as well as celebrity-driven family shows.

In 2025, it joined Sinclair’s concerted push to widen multicast distribution through new DMA launches, better subchannel placement, and virtual MVPD carriage, helping diversify the company’s national networks portfolio.

Digital Remedy (formerly Compulse)

Digital Remedy is Sinclair’s ad-tech and performance media platform following the company’s acquisition of the remaining 75% stake in March 2025 and the subsequent rebrand of Compulse in June.

The business provides omnichannel activation with a specialty in CTV, unifying managed services and software under one brand. Management describes the unit as exhibiting “Rule of 40” software characteristics, and it increasingly serves non-Sinclair clients alongside the broadcaster’s local and national properties.

Sinclair Television Group

Sinclair’s core broadcast arm owns or operates a large portfolio of local television stations across major affiliates, including FOX, ABC, CBS, NBC, MyNetworkTV, and The CW.

As of mid-2025, the group spans well over 170 full-power and low-power stations across roughly 80+ markets, making it one of the largest station operators in the United States.

These outlets are the backbone for local news, sports, and syndicated programming and provide distribution for Sinclair’s multicast networks.

ONE Media Technologies

ONE Media Technologies is Sinclair’s advanced-technology subsidiary, leading the company’s adoption of ATSC 3.0 (NextGen TV).

In 2025, it hosted end-to-end device interoperability trials and showcased cloud-based broadcasting workflows in partnership with major tech vendors. The unit also develops mobile reception demos and public-safety use cases, reflecting Sinclair’s strategy to monetize broadcast spectrum beyond traditional television.

Dielectric

Dielectric LLC, a wholly owned Sinclair subsidiary since 2013, designs and manufactures RF systems and antennas for TV and FM broadcasters. Based in Raymond, Maine, the company supports both legacy and NextGen TV deployments.

In 2025, it continued rolling out new product lines for high-efficiency transmission, reinforcing Sinclair’s vertical capabilities in broadcast infrastructure.

Marquee Sports Network

Marquee Sports Network is the regional sports network home of the Chicago Cubs. It is operated as a joint venture between the Cubs and Sinclair and launched in 2020.

While the RSN landscape remains fluid in 2025, Marquee continues to carry live Cubs games and team-centric programming across cable, satellite, and streaming offerings in the Chicago market.

Multicast Network Operations

Collectively, Sinclair’s multicast brands—Comet, Charge!, Roar, and The Nest—form a national, free-to-watch portfolio with expanding reach in 2025.

The company reported record growth for these networks this year, driven by broader distribution, better channel positions in key DMAs, and premium programming additions, alongside growing availability on select virtual MVPDs.

Conclusion

Sinclair Broadcast Group remains one of the most influential broadcasting companies in America. The Smith family continues to be the key force behind its ownership and direction, while institutional investors add financial backing. Under its current CEO, the company has expanded from traditional television into digital and sports broadcasting. Understanding who owns Sinclair is essential to grasping its power and reach in the media industry.

FAQs

Who owns Sinclair News?

Sinclair News is owned and operated by Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc., a publicly traded American media company. Sinclair directly controls the production, distribution, and editorial operations of its news programming across local TV stations and national platforms like Tennis Channel, Comet, and other owned networks. The company is guided by its executive leadership, with Chris Ripley as CEO overseeing overall operations.

What are the major news stations owned by Sinclair?

Sinclair owns or operates over 170 local television stations across the United States. These include affiliates of major networks such as ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, MyNetworkTV, and The CW. Some of the largest and most prominent Sinclair-owned stations are:

  • WJLA-TV – Washington, D.C. (ABC)
  • WBFF-TV – Baltimore (FOX)
  • WPEC-TV – West Palm Beach (CBS)
  • KUTV – Salt Lake City (CBS)

These stations are central to Sinclair’s news operations, delivering local, regional, and national coverage while also broadcasting Sinclair’s syndicated content and specialized networks.

Who owns Sinclair Broadcasting?

Sinclair Broadcast Group is a publicly traded company (NASDAQ: SBGI). Its ownership is distributed among institutional investors, mutual funds, and individual shareholders. The largest controlling shareholder historically has been the Smith family, led by Executive Chairman David D. Smith, who maintains significant influence over the company’s board and strategic decisions. Other institutional shareholders own smaller percentages but collectively have influence over corporate governance.

Does BlackRock own Sinclair?

Yes, BlackRock is one of the institutional shareholders of Sinclair Broadcast Group, holding a minority stake in the company. While BlackRock invests in many publicly traded companies, it does not have majority control over Sinclair. Control remains primarily with the Smith family and the company’s board of directors.

Is Sinclair an American company?

Yes, Sinclair Broadcast Group is a U.S.-based company headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland. It was founded in 1971 by Julian Sinclair Smith and has since grown into one of the largest broadcast television operators in the United States. Sinclair operates exclusively within the American media landscape, including local TV stations, multicast networks, and national digital properties.

Is Sinclair a private or public company?

Sinclair is a public company listed on NASDAQ under the ticker SBGI.

Who founded Sinclair?

Sinclair was founded in 1971 by Julian Sinclair Smith in Baltimore, Maryland.

Does the Smith family still control Sinclair?

Yes, the Smith family continues to exercise control through ownership of Class B shares with higher voting power.