The New York Times Explores Acquisition of Letterboxd

✦ Meridian Analysis

The New York Times Company is in exclusive negotiations to acquire Letterboxd, the film‑social network founded in 2011, for a reported US$330 million – roughly €295 million. The deal remains at the rumour stage; no definitive agreement has been signed and the parties acknowledge that negotiations could still fail. The acquisition would be part of the Times’ effort to develop a set of products and services beyond its core news offering, building on previous purchases such as The Athletic, Wirecutter and Wordle. What remains undisclosed are the exact financing terms, any contingent earn‑out provisions, and the identity of the Times’ financial advisers on the buy‑side. Observers will be watching for regulatory clearance requirements, given the cross‑border nature of the parties, and for a timetable on when a definitive agreement might be announced, which would clarify the final valuation multiples and integration plan.

The Meridian Weekly