Satellite TV platforms continue to grow

The number of satellite TV platforms across the globe grew to 113 at the end of 2009, up 38% in three years, according to the latest report from satellite research firm Euroconsult. The number of satellite pay-TV viewers is expected to reach 235 million by 2019, according to Euroconsult.

According to the report, Satellite TV Platforms – World Survey & Prospects to 2019: Growth Through the Crisis, satellite-delivered pay-TV platforms reached 131 million subscribers and earned US$70bn (€48.5bn) in revenues in 2009. Subscribers in emerging markets reached the 60 million mark in 2009, according to the report, up from 11.9 million in 2003. In central and eastern Europe, satellite pay-TV subscribers stood at 15.9 million, up from two million in 2005.

While markets, with the exception of Europe, saw revenue growth in local currency terms last year, more aggressive pricing strategies led to a decline in ARPU, according to Euroconsult.

The report found that 46 satellite pay-TV platforms had rolled out HD services by the end of 2009, up from 21 at the end of 2007. DVR services were offered by over 50 platforms, up from 29 in 2007.