Vivendi, the French media and telecommunications conglomerate, reported a strong first-quarter revenue of €4.28 billion ($4.59 billion), marking a 5.4 percent increase over the same period last year. The growth was driven by the performance of acquired publisher Lagardere, pay-TV unit Canal+ Group, and advertising giant Havas. The company, led by chairman Yannick Bolloré and CEO Arnaud de Puyfontaine, did not disclose its earnings before interest, taxes, and amortization (EBITA) but highlighted the strong growth of its core units.
Vivendi is also considering a possible split into four separate companies to unlock the development potential of its activities. The company proposed the idea of exploring the feasibility of a project to split into several entities, each listed on the stock market. This study is ongoing, with a focus on splitting Canal+, Havas, and Lagardere, along with other publishing and distribution assets, into independent firms.
Canal+ Group, which includes film production and distribution arm StudioCanal, reported a first-quarter revenue of €1.54 billion, up 4.3 percent. However, Vivendi’s gaming firm Gameloft saw a slight decline in revenue compared to the previous year.
The potential split of Vivendi into separate entities listed on the stock market aims to maximize the growth opportunities for its subsidiaries and enhance the overall valuation of the company. As the study progresses, Vivendi remains committed to supporting the transformation and expansion of its businesses while actively managing its investments.