Canal+ JSE listing plan advances after MultiChoice deal

Monday 20th October 2025

by inAfrika Newsroom

Canal+ JSE listing preparations are moving ahead after the French media group completed its takeover of MultiChoice. Executives said a secondary Johannesburg listing will follow MultiChoice’s delisting, maintaining access for South African investors and deepening liquidity in a key African market.

The company outlined a timeline targeting a trading debut before September 2026. Meanwhile, integration with MultiChoice has begun across content, distribution and advertising sales. The combined platform expands reach to more than 40 million subscribers in nearly 70 countries, with Africa a central growth pillar.

Canal+ JSE listing plans cap a year of strategic moves. The group reported steady revenue growth and acquired a minority stake in cinema chain UGC, with an option to increase its holding later. Consequently, management says it is building a diversified content and distribution ecosystem, spanning pay-TV, streaming, cinema and sports.

South Africa remains a competitive media market. Nevertheless, a local listing can anchor relationships with regulators, advertisers and rights holders. It may also broaden the investor base to include domestic institutions that prefer or require JSE exposure.

For consumers, the integration could bring programming changes and bundled offers. However, the company must navigate price sensitivity and competition from global streamers. Executives say localized content and sports rights will remain core to retention.

Analysts see several watch points. Currency volatility and consumer income trends can sway subscriber growth. In addition, regulatory approvals will shape how quickly back-office systems and product catalogs converge. The group’s ability to hold down churn while cross-selling streaming will be critical.

Canal+ JSE listing mechanics now turn to documentation, governance and index eligibility. If the process stays on schedule, the stock could enter South African benchmarks, attracting passive inflows. For now, management is signaling continuity on service while it builds a larger Africa-centric media platform.