Comcast Secures Chicago Sports Network Deal, Shares Rise Modestly
Comcast (NASDAQ:CMCSA) shares edged higher Friday afternoon after finalizing a deal to bring Chicago Sports Network to its Ultimate tier subscribers. The agreement, effective immediately, marks a win for Chicago sports fans but comes at a cost—subscribers must upgrade to the premium Ultimate tier, adding approximately $20 monthly to bills atop existing regional sports fees.
While basic subscribers retain an $8.85 credit from the NBC Sports Chicago transition, reducing their regional sports fee to $11.40, the MOVE underscores Comcast's strategy to monetize high-demand sports content. Market reaction remained measured, reflecting the balance between revenue upside and potential subscriber friction.