The Walt Disney Company Acquires YouTube Network Maker Studios

The Walt Disney Company has acquired Maker Studios, the leading network of online video content on YouTube.

Maker has more than 55,000 channels, 380 million subscribers, and 5.5 billion views per month on YouTube, making it the top online video network for the Millennial generation. The acquisition will help Disney bring more content to consumers across all platforms.

Disney's acquisition of Maker Studios means the company will gain advanced technology and business intelligence regarding customers' interaction with videos, including Disney content.

"Short-form online video is growing at an astonishing pace and with Maker Studios, Disney will now be at the center of this dynamic industry with an unmatched combination of advanced technology and programming expertise and capabilities," said Robert A. Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company.

As part of the purchase, Maker Studios shareholders will receive a performance-linked earn-out of nearly $450 million if performance targets are met.

The Studios will report to Disney Chief Financial Officer Jay Rasulo, and will retain their headquarters in Culver City, California.

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