Radio BroadcastingPodcasts Overtake AM/FM Talk Radio in Popularity for Spoken-Word Audio: A major Edison Research Share of Ear survey shows podcasts have surpassed traditional AM/FM talk radio as the preferred medium for spoken-word content in the U.S. This marks a significant inflection point for the industry, highlighting the ongoing shift to on-demand digital audio. Traditional radio continues to face competition from streaming and podcasts, though it retains strengths in local content and live broadcasting.
Radio Station Deal Market Shows Signs of Rebound and Opportunistic Activity Industry reports indicate radio dealmaking started stronger in 2026, with January filings showing 36 stations sold (more than double the prior year, totaling $15.7 million). Analysts expect more opportunistic buying in the coming months, potentially fueled by economic shifts and pending FCC reviews of ownership limits. This could lead to consolidation if regulatory barriers ease.
FCC Advances on Noncommercial FM Translator Filing Window for 2026: The FCC released updates in mid-to-late February 2026 (including a Public Notice on February 26) seeking comments on proposed limits for the upcoming 2026 filing window for new noncommercial educational (NCE) reserved band FM translators. Key proposals include caps on applications per entity (e.g., up to 10 nationally for most, fewer for LPFM/Tribal applicants) and requirements tying translators to existing primary NCE stations. Comments are due in March, signaling preparations for expanded low-power and translator opportunities in noncommercial radio.
Student Released from ICE Custody After Mamdani-Trump Meeting: A Columbia student detained by immigration agents was freed following direct intervention by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani in talks with President Trump. The university alleged agents used false pretenses to access the student, highlighting ongoing immigration enforcement controversies.
Media Industry
Paramount Skydance wins bidding war for Warner Bros. Discovery after Netflix drops out: Netflix declined to match Paramount Skydance's superior offer (reportedly around $31 per share, valuing the deal at roughly $108 billion in some estimates, though figures vary). Warner Bros. Discovery's board accepted Paramount's bid as superior, clearing the path for a major merger that combines Paramount's assets with Warner's studios, HBO/Max streaming, and film/TV libraries. This reshapes Hollywood's landscape, potentially creating a stronger competitor to Netflix and Disney in streaming and content production. Netflix cited the higher price as no longer financially attractive, focusing instead on its own growth.
U-S News
Hillary Clinton Testifies in House Epstein Investigation: Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton appeared for a deposition before a Republican-led House committee probing Jeffrey Epstein's crimes and connections. She denied knowledge of Epstein or his activities, called the hearing "partisan political theater," and expressed confidence that former President Bill Clinton (scheduled to testify next) had no involvement. The probe continues to generate significant attention.U.S. Military Uses Laser to Down Customs and Border Protection Drone: Lawmakers reported that the Pentagon employed a laser system to shoot down a CBP drone near El Paso, Texas, prompting the FAA to close additional airspace. Democrats on the House Transportation Committee expressed alarm over the incident and potential risks.
Student Released from ICE Custody After Mamdani-Trump Meeting: A Columbia student detained by immigration agents was freed following direct intervention by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani in talks with President Trump. The university alleged agents used false pretenses to access the student, highlighting ongoing immigration enforcement controversies.