- YouTube’s potential $400B valuation surpasses Netflix, Paramount, Warner Bros Discovery, and Fox.
- The platform’s operating profits reached $5.5B on $45B in revenue in 2023.
- Policymakers and the public often overlook YouTube.
YouTube could be worth as much as $400 billion as a standalone company. This valuation eclipses the combined market capitalization of media giants like Netflix, Paramount, Warner Bros Discovery, and Fox.
Nathanson’s estimates highlight YouTube’s impressive operating profits of $5.5 billion on revenues of $45 billion in 2023, a significant increase from its $1.65 billion acquisition price nearly 20 years ago.
YouTube’s dominance in the streaming landscape
Despite its massive size and influence, YouTube often gets overlooked in discussions about the streaming wars.
However, when compared to other major players in the industry, it becomes clear that YouTube is a force to be reckoned with.
The platform’s potential value surpasses even the combined market capitalization of Comcast and Disney, two companies that are not solely reliant on media for their revenue.
Overlooked by policymakers
The staggering potential value of YouTube underscores the need for increased attention and scrutiny from both the public and policymakers.
In January, the US Senate Judiciary Committee hosted a hearing on “Big Tech and the Online Child Sexual Exploitation Crisis” but failed to include YouTube in their discussions, despite its significant role in the online landscape.
As conversations about video, the internet, advertising, and audience value continue, it is crucial to recognize and address YouTube’s immense influence and potential.
