Merrill Lynch Revises Down DTV Growth Forecasts

Merrill Lynch has revised down its forecasts for the growth of digital television (DTV) penetration in the UK, after the number of customers declined for the first time in 2002 following the closure of ITV Digital. The financial struggles of cable companies, NTL and Telewest Communications, have also stunted growth of the sector.

Merrill is forecasting a 2.2% points growth of penetration for 2003, taking the DTV’s reach to 41.4% of UK homes. This is slightly below its previous forecast of 44.0%, released in July 2002. The long-term forecasts, through to 2010, have also all been revised downwards slightly since July, as shown.

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