FCC Chair Supports Nexstar’s Tegna Acquisition

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The chair of the Federal Communications Commission has expressed support for Nexstar’s proposed $3.54 billion acquisition of Tegna, a move that could create the largest regional television station operator in the United States.

If approved, the deal would significantly expand Nexstar’s reach, potentially covering up to 80 percent of U.S. television households across key markets. However, completing the acquisition would require regulatory adjustments, including changes to existing limits on broadcast station ownership.

Current FCC rules prevent a single company from owning television stations reaching more than 39 percent of U.S. households. Supporters of the merger argue that these limits should be revised to reflect shifts in the media landscape, particularly as traditional broadcasters face declining revenues and growing competition from streaming platforms.

Industry groups have also called for modernization of ownership rules, suggesting that longstanding regulations place broadcasters at a disadvantage compared to large technology companies.

While some policymakers believe the ownership cap could be adjusted through regulatory action, others question whether such changes require legislative approval.

The proposed merger highlights ongoing debates over competition, diversity and the evolving structure of the media sector.

Germany Moves Toward Social Media Limits for Children

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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has voiced support for stricter controls on children’s access to social media, citing increasing concern over misinformation and digital manipulation.

Speaking ahead of the Christian Union party conference, Merz pointed to the risks posed by artificial content such as fabricated news and manipulated media. He noted that young teenagers now spend an average of over five hours online daily, raising questions about the broader societal impact.

A proposal set to be discussed includes restricting access to platforms like TikTok and Instagram for users under the age of 16. Similar discussions are underway across Europe, with countries such as Spain, France and Greece exploring potential limitations.

Merz acknowledged that his perspective had evolved, highlighting the underestimated influence of algorithms and targeted online messaging. He dismissed the idea of gradual exposure to social media as a sufficient safeguard, emphasizing the need for structural protections.

While federal support appears to be growing, implementing nationwide restrictions may require coordination between Germany’s states due to the decentralized nature of media regulation.

A government-appointed commission examining online safety for young people is expected to present its findings later this year.

eBay Acquires Depop to Strengthen Resale Fashion

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eBay has forecast stronger-than-expected first-quarter revenue while announcing the acquisition of fashion resale platform Depop from Etsy for approximately $1.2 billion. The move aims to expand eBay’s position in the fast-growing pre-owned fashion segment.

The company expects quarterly revenue between $3 billion and $3.05 billion, surpassing analyst projections of $2.80 billion. This outlook reflects continued growth driven by its focus on recommerce, which emphasizes refurbished, authenticated and second-hand products.

Depop is seen as a strategic addition, particularly due to its popularity among younger consumers who prioritize sustainability and circular consumption. The platform has gained traction in the resale fashion market by promoting the reuse of clothing and accessories.

According to CEO Jamie Iannone, the acquisition aligns with shifting consumer preferences toward environmentally conscious shopping habits. The deal is expected to close in the second quarter and could contribute up to two percentage points to eBay’s gross merchandise volume growth by 2026.

For the first quarter, eBay anticipates total merchandise sales between $21.5 billion and $21.9 billion, exceeding market expectations. The company previously reported $2.97 billion in fourth-quarter revenue, alongside a 10 percent increase in merchandise volume.