FM Radio Phase III Auction Update: Mirchi and Radio City Opt Out - Airmedia Broadcast India
FM Radio Phase III Auction Update: Mirchi and Radio City Opt Out - Airmedia Broadcast India The third phase of FM Phase-III radio auctions, scheduled to begin in January 2025, has seen 20 radio players submitting their applications. However, major players such as Radio Mirchi and Radio City have opted not to participate in this round. The third batch of auctions, covering 730 channels across 234 new cities, has garnered a lukewarm response, with many radio players adopting a conservative bidding strategy due to high reserve prices and the long nine-year gap since the last batch. Industry insiders predict that the bids will be significantly lower, with players likely spending only 10% of what they invested in the previous auction. Key concerns for the radio players include the high cost of operations in smaller cities, limited business opportunities, and a shift in consumer habits, with many opting for online content through smartphones over traditional FM. Industry veterans sugges...