Business | Nexstar, Sinclair Spend Millions Lobbying to Rewrite TV Station Ownership Rules
Broadcast giants Nexstar and Sinclair are significantly increasing their lobbying efforts and spending millions to influence federal regulators to loosen national TV market ownership limits. This push, particularly by Nexstar in anticipation of a $6.2 billion merger with Tegna, could reshape local television by allowing companies to control a larger share of the national audience, leveraging a regulatory loophole known as the UHF discount. The debate over who holds the authority to change the 39 percent ownership cap—Congress or the FCC—is central to these companies' expansion plans and has become increasingly politicized, with differing views from legislators, industry groups, and even former President Trump.
Tegna, Seattle Kraken Extend Broadcast Deal
Tegna Inc. and the Seattle Kraken have announced a multi-year extension of their media rights deal, ensuring Kraken games remain available for free via over-the-air broadcasts on local Tegna stations KING5 and KONG. This partnership, which also includes Prime Video, has significantly increased viewership for the Kraken Hockey Network across its five-state territory. The agreement aims to continue providing accessible hockey content to fans throughout the Pacific Northwest.
1 Momentum Stock Worth Your Attention and 2 We Turn Down
This article analyzes three stocks trading near their 52-week highs: TEGNA (TGNA), Autoliv (ALV), and Howmet (HWM). It recommends selling TEGNA due to unexciting sales trends and shrinking returns, and advises caution on Autoliv because of soft estimated sales growth and low gross margins. Howmet is highlighted as a buy due to impressive revenue growth, share repurchases, and expanding free cash flow margins.
FCC Chair Backs Nexstar-Tegna Merger, Seeks to Lift Ownership Cap - News and Statistics
The FCC Chair supports Nexstar's $3.54 billion acquisition of Tegna, which would make the combined entity the largest U.S. regional TV station operator, covering 80% of TV households. The deal necessitates lifting the current 39% cap on station ownership, a move backed by President Trump and opposed by some, raising questions about competition and regulatory authority. This comes amidst declining revenues in the local media industry due to streaming services.
Nexstar-Tegna decision should be made at commission level, US FCC’s Gomez says
US FCC Commissioner Anna M. Gomez believes that the decision regarding Nexstar Media Group's proposed acquisition of Tegna, Inc. should be made at the commission level, rather than the bureau level. This is due to the contentious nature of the merger, which involves national ownership caps and the convergence of broadcast, cable, and digital networks. Gomez emphasized that such a significant issue warrants a higher-level decision-making process within the FCC.
Behavioral Patterns of TGNA and Institutional Flows
This article analyzes behavioral patterns and institutional flows for Tegna Inc (NASDAQ: TGNA), highlighting strong sentiment across all horizons and an exceptional risk-reward short setup. It details three AI-generated trading strategies—Position, Momentum Breakout, and Risk Hedging—tailored for different risk profiles. The analysis also provides multi-timeframe signal analysis, including support and resistance levels.
LSV Asset Management Has $145.79 Million Stock Position in TEGNA Inc. $TGNA
LSV Asset Management reduced its stake in TEGNA Inc. (NYSE:TGNA) by 4.5% during the third quarter, now holding 7,171,371 shares valued at approximately $145.79 million, representing 4.45% of the company. Despite this, other institutional investors have recently increased their positions in TEGNA. The company currently holds a consensus "Hold" rating from analysts with an average target price of $19.75, announced a quarterly dividend, and recently missed its quarterly EPS and revenue estimates.
Alpine Associates Management Inc. Invests $15.62 Million in TEGNA Inc. $TGNA
Alpine Associates Management Inc. has acquired a significant new position in TEGNA Inc. (NYSE:TGNA), purchasing 768,370 shares valued at approximately $15.62 million, making it their 24th largest holding. Other institutional investors have also adjusted their stakes in TEGNA, which currently holds a "Hold" rating from analysts with an average price target of $19.75. The company recently reported its earnings, missing consensus estimates, and declared a quarterly dividend of $0.125 per share.
Too Big Or Too Small: Five Takeaways As Senators Weigh Local News, TV Ownership Limits And Trump’s Surprise Nexstar Merger Endorsement
A Senate Commerce Committee hearing addressed the potential Nexstar-Tegna merger and the current 39% cap on TV broadcast station ownership. While Nexstar and other broadcasters argue for relaxing ownership limits to compete with big tech and streaming, critics like Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy contend that consolidation reduces competition and local news output. The debate also touched on the FCC's authority to alter these limits and the implications for consumers and local broadcasting.
New York Life Investment Management LLC Acquires Shares of 341,175 TEGNA Inc. $TGNA
New York Life Investment Management LLC has acquired a new position in TEGNA Inc. (NYSE:TGNA), purchasing 341,175 shares valued at approximately $6.94 million in the third quarter. This acquisition gives the firm about 0.21% ownership of TEGNA. Several other institutional investors also adjusted their holdings in TEGNA, which recently announced a quarterly dividend and whose stock is primarily owned by hedge funds and institutions.
ABC Arbitrage SA Buys Shares of 309,451 TEGNA Inc. $TGNA
ABC Arbitrage SA has acquired 309,451 shares of TEGNA Inc. (NYSE:TGNA), valued at approximately $6.29 million, representing a new position for the firm. Other institutional investors have also adjusted their holdings in TEGNA, which currently has a consensus "Hold" rating from analysts with an average target price of $19.75. The stock opened at $20.89 and recently announced a quarterly dividend of $0.125.
Newsmax Touts Congressional Opposition to Nexstar-Tegna Deal
Newsmax published a letter on its website, purportedly from 40 Congressional Republicans, opposing the Nexstar-Tegna merger. However, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) stated that it had not received any such letter. Newsmax's founder, Chris Ruddy, had previously testified against the merger at a Senate hearing.
New York State Common Retirement Fund Sells 104,200 Shares of TEGNA Inc. $TGNA
The New York State Common Retirement Fund significantly reduced its stake in TEGNA Inc. ($TGNA) by selling 104,200 shares, decreasing its holdings to 52,127 shares valued at approximately $1.06 million. This happens as TEGNA missed quarterly earnings expectations and saw its revenue decline by 19.3% year-over-year. Analysts currently hold a consensus "Hold" rating on the stock with a price target of $19.75.
Tegna shares climb after Trump voices support for Nexstar deal
Shares of Tegna (TGNA) rose after former President Trump voiced his support for Nexstar Media Group's (NXST) proposed acquisition of Tegna. Trump stated on Truth Social that Nexstar should be allowed to acquire Tegna, citing that Nexstar is a "great conservative group" and that the FCC should approve the deal "immediately." This intervention comes as the deal has faced scrutiny from the FCC, with concerns raised about the potential impact on local broadcast markets and prices for consumers.
Trump backs TV merger that would drastically shake up Knoxville's market
Former President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed a proposed merger between Nexstar Media and Tegna, a deal that could significantly alter Knoxville's local television market. The acquisition would allow Nexstar to own both WATE and WBIR, potentially leading to a three-way realignment that could involve WVLT if one of the stations is sold. This move is contingent on the FCC lifting local television ownership caps, a policy Trump previously criticized but now appears to support.
TEGNA Inc. (TGNA) in 2026: Consolidation, Digital Growth, and the Nexstar Era
TEGNA Inc. (TGNA) is positioned at the forefront of media consolidation, with a definitive agreement to be acquired by Nexstar Media Group for $22.00 per share. The company, which originated from a split with Gannett Co. in 2015, has overcome a failed acquisition attempt by Standard General in 2023 and has since focused on digital growth and a diversified revenue model. The pending merger with Nexstar, driven by a renewed regulatory climate, is set to solidify TEGNA's role as a leader in local broadcasting and digital advertising through platforms like Premion, while also navigating industry trends such as streaming integration and the 2026 midterm elections.
Trump Backs Nexstar-Tegna Deal
Former President Trump has publicly endorsed the proposed Nexstar-Tegna deal, stating it would increase competition against "Fake News National TV Networks." This stance was echoed by FCC Chair Brendan Carr, who reiterated his interest in strengthening local broadcasters and potentially removing the 39% ownership cap. Trump's support marks a shift from his previous position, where he expressed concerns that lifting the cap might benefit "radical left networks."
Trump blesses Nexstar-Tegna merger, paving way for more consolidation
President Trump publicly endorsed the proposed merger between Nexstar and Tegna, two major broadcast station groups, on Truth Social, suggesting it would increase competition despite concerns about media consolidation. The merger, which would combine Nexstar's 200+ stations and Tegna's 61 stations, requires the FCC to lift its 39% ownership cap, a decision that could pave the way for other similar deals like Sinclair's bid for Scripps. While Trump's blessing doesn't guarantee approval, his alignment with FCC chairman Brendan Carr suggests its increased likelihood.
E.W. Scripps, Gray Media stocks gain as Trump backs Nexstar-Tegna merger
Shares of E.W. Scripps and Gray Media saw significant gains after former President Donald Trump publicly endorsed the proposed merger between Nexstar Media and Tegna. Trump stated that the merger would increase competition against what he calls "Fake News National TV Networks," despite having previously criticized proposals to lift local television station ownership caps. This endorsement led to rises in the stocks of all companies involved, including Nexstar and Tegna themselves.
Stock Movers: Alphabet, Hims & Hers Health, Tegna
This article discusses the stock movements of Alphabet, Hims & Hers Health, and Tegna. Alphabet is entering the bond market for AI investment, Hims & Hers Health stock tumbled after discontinuing a copycat weight-loss pill, and Tegna rose following President Trump's backing of Nexstar Media Group's acquisition proposal.
Tegna Inc (TGNA) Stock Price Up 8.36% on Feb 9
Shares of Tegna Inc (TGNA) surged 8.36% on February 9, reaching an intraday high of $20.82 before closing at $20.67. This places the stock just 3.21% below its 52-week high. Analysts have an average target price of $21.67, implying a 4.85% upside, though GuruFocus estimates a GF Value of $19.46, suggesting a 5.83% downside.
Opinion | Trump Sees the Light on Nexstar-Tegna
President Trump has reversed his previous stance and now supports the proposed merger between broadcaster Nexstar Media Group and Tegna. He believes the deal will increase media competition, a view articulated on Truth Social. This change of heart contrasts with opposition from figures like Senator Elizabeth Warren and Newsmax Media CEO Christopher Ruddy.
Trump Praises Nexstar-Tegna Deal He Once Opposed
President Donald Trump has reversed his stance on Nexstar Media Group's $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna, now endorsing the deal. He stated that allowing "Good Deals" like Nexstar-Tegna will increase competition in the media landscape, which he believes will help counter "Fake News" networks. This acquisition, which requires regulatory approval, would merge two significant local broadcast media companies, with Nexstar's CEO portraying it as aligned with the Trump administration's deregulatory initiatives.
'Get That Deal Done:' Trump Backs Nexstar's Acquisition Of Tegna After November Opposition
President Donald Trump has reversed his November opposition and endorsed Nexstar Media Group's $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna Inc. Trump stated that the deal would increase competition and help counter "Fake News." This acquisition, which would combine Nexstar's 200+ stations with Tegna's 64, is expected to close in the second half of 2026 and requires the FCC to lift its 39% household reach cap.
Trump backs Nexstar-Tegna merger, says big TV networks need more competition
Former President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed a proposed $3.54 billion merger between local television station operator Nexstar Media and Tegna. Trump stated that the merger would increase competition against "Fake News National TV Networks," despite having previously criticized proposals to lift the cap on local television station ownership. The deal, which aims to create the largest U.S. regional TV station operator, is currently awaiting a decision from the Federal Communications Commission on lifting the ownership cap.
Donald Trump Endorses Nexstar-Tegna Merger, And FCC Chair Responds: “Let’s Get It Done”
Donald Trump has endorsed the proposed $6.2 billion merger between Nexstar Media Group and Tegna, stating it will help combat "Fake News" by creating more competition at a higher level. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, appointed by Trump, echoed this sentiment, arguing that national networks like Comcast and Disney have too much power and that the merger would bring real competition. The deal, if approved, would give Nexstar 265 stations, reaching 80% of U.S. TV households, but requires a waiver from the FCC due to existing ownership caps, which some, like Newsmax and its CEO Chris Ruddy, oppose, arguing it would lead to dangerous consolidation and harm localism.
Trump throws support behind Nexstar-Tegna broadcast deal he once opposed
Former President Trump has reversed his stance and now supports Nexstar Media Group's $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna. He stated on Truth Social that the deal would increase competition against "Fake News National TV Networks." The acquisition, which requires regulatory approval, would significantly expand Nexstar's reach in local broadcast media.
In reversal, Trump backs Nexstar's proposed acquisition of Tegna
Former President Donald Trump has reversed his stance and now supports Nexstar Media's proposed $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna, arguing it will foster more competition against "Fake News" networks. This endorsement comes months after he criticized the deal due to concerns about media consolidation potentially expanding "Radical Left Networks." The acquisition, which would add Tegna's 64 stations to Nexstar's over 200, is pending FCC approval, conditional on the lifting of rules limiting broadcast station ownership.
Donald Trump backs Nexstar Media's move to acquire Tegna for $6.2 billion, says ‘need more competition against enemy…'
Donald Trump has publicly endorsed Nexstar Media's $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna, stating it would increase competition against "fake news" networks. He believes the deal will benefit America by providing a more sophisticated level of media competition. Trump also claimed that those opposing the deal do not fully understand its positive implications.
Trump’s Backing of Nexstar–TEGNA Deal Could Ignite Media Stocks and Sector ETFs
Former President Trump's recent post on Truth Social, explicitly supporting the Nexstar-TEGNA deal, could significantly impact media stocks and related ETFs. His statement, urging the deal's approval to increase competition against "Fake News National TV Networks," is anticipated to boost investor optimism for Nexstar Media Group and TEGNA, and could also positively influence peers like Sinclair Broadcast Group and broader media ETFs such as VOX and XLC. However, regulatory hurdles or political controversies could introduce volatility and downside risk.
Trump backs Nexstar-Tegna merger, says big TV networks need more competition
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed the proposed merger between local television station operators Nexstar Media and Tegna. He stated that the deal would increase competition among “Fake News National TV Networks,” potentially reducing their influence. This marks a shift from his previous criticism regarding lifting the cap on local TV station ownership.
Trump backs Nexstar’s proposed acquisition of TEGNA
Donald Trump has publicly endorsed Nexstar Media Group's proposed $6.2 billion acquisition of TEGNA, reversing his earlier concerns. He stated that the deal would increase competition with television networks and is beneficial. The acquisition, announced in August 2025, is still awaiting regulatory approval.
Trump Publicly Backs Proposed Merger Between Nexstar And Tegna
Former President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed a proposed merger between Nexstar Media and Tegna, stating that more competition is needed against "the Fake News National TV Networks." This support comes despite his previous criticism in November regarding a proposal to lift the cap on local television station ownership, which is a necessary step for the merger. If approved, the $3.54 billion acquisition would create the largest U.S. regional TV station operator.
TEGNA Inc. (NYSE:TGNA) Given Consensus Rating of "Hold" by Analysts
Analysts have given TEGNA Inc. (NYSE:TGNA) a consensus "Hold" rating, with an average 12-month price target of $19.75. This comes after recent analyst actions including a downgrade from Wells Fargo and an upgrade from Zacks, and the company's latest quarterly earnings missed estimates while revenue decreased. Despite the stock trading near $18.96 and a payout of a $0.125 quarterly dividend, institutional investors have shown increased interest, with significant stake increases from firms like Jane Street Group and UBS.
(TGNA) Movement Within Algorithmic Entry Frameworks
This article provides an algorithmic analysis of Tegna Inc (NASDAQ: TGNA), indicating neutral near and mid-term signals but a strong long-term positive bias. It highlights an exceptional risk-reward setup targeting a 7.9% gain against 0.3% risk. The analysis details three distinct institutional trading strategies—Position, Momentum Breakout, and Risk Hedging—along with multi-timeframe signal insights.
A Look At TEGNA (TGNA) Valuation As Shares Trade Below Estimated Fair Value
TEGNA (TGNA) shares are trading below their estimated fair value of US$21.33, despite recent trading showing a mixed picture with a small 1-day gain but a 90-day decline. The undervaluation is attributed to an expected decline in advertising revenue and net margin pressure due to the shift from traditional broadcast to streaming. The analysis suggests that while the media company is undervalued, its future potential depends on the success of its CTV and streaming initiatives, or potential industry consolidation.
TEGNA Inc. (NYSE:TGNA) Sees Large Decrease in Short Interest
TEGNA Inc. (NYSE:TGNA) experienced a significant 12.7% decrease in short interest in January, reaching 9,105,295 shares, which represents about 5.7% of its stock. The short-interest ratio for TGNA is currently 6.9 days based on its average daily volume. Analyst ratings for TEGNA collectively suggest a "Hold" with an average price target of $19.75, while the stock currently trades near $19.21.
AE Wealth Management LLC Has $2.46 Million Position in TEGNA Inc. $TGNA
AE Wealth Management LLC has reduced its stake in TEGNA Inc. (NYSE:TGNA) by 47.2%, ending with 121,079 shares valued at $2.46 million. This move comes as TEGNA missed its quarterly earnings and revenue estimates, reporting $0.33 EPS against an expected $0.35, and $650.79 million in revenue. Despite mixed institutional activity, the stock currently trades around $19.15 with a "Hold" consensus rating and a $19.75 price target.
Capital Management Corp VA Cuts Stock Holdings in TEGNA Inc. $TGNA
Capital Management Corp VA significantly reduced its stake in TEGNA Inc. (NYSE:TGNA) by 90.1% in Q3, selling 829,325 shares and retaining 91,495 shares valued at $1.86 million, representing about 0.06% of the company. Analysts currently have a "Hold" consensus rating on TGNA with a $19.75 price target. TEGNA recently missed quarterly EPS estimates and saw a 19.3% year-over-year revenue decline, though it pays a $0.125 quarterly dividend.
Will TEGNA's (TGNA) Mobile App Push and Award-Winning Journalism Deepen Its Local-Media Moat?
TEGNA (TGNA) has recently launched new personalized mobile news and weather apps across 50 markets, showing increased audience engagement. Concurrently, its Atlanta NBC affiliate WXIA (11Alive) received a prestigious award for its investigative journalism, leading to policy reforms. These developments strengthen TEGNA's connection with local audiences and support the bull case for its investment narrative, though risks like slowing revenue growth and debt coverage remain.
Nexstar steers cash to TEGNA deal, holds $1.86 dividend steady
Nexstar Media Group announced that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $1.86 per share, maintaining the current rate. This decision aims to preserve capital for the pending acquisition of TEGNA, Inc., with excess cash to be used for financing the acquisition or debt repayment. Nexstar's dividend yield of 3.59% positions it favorably within the S&P 400, reflecting the company's financial strength and commitment to its capital allocation strategy.
TEGNA Station WXIA Wins Prestigious 2026 Alfred I. duPont-Columbia Award for Groundbreaking Investigation, ‘Help that Harms’
TEGNA's NBC affiliate WXIA (11Alive) in Atlanta has won a 2026 Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University Award for its investigation "Help That Harms." The series exposed how families bringing infants with unexplained injuries to the ER were often wrongly accused of abuse, leading to significant reforms in Georgia's child welfare system, including the passage of Ridge’s Law. The award recognizes the team's commitment to accountability reporting and its impact on vulnerable families.
TEGNA Expands Local News Offering with First-of-Its-Kind
TEGNA Inc. has launched new mobile apps across 50 markets, aiming to provide up-to-the-minute local news and weather coverage through thousands of original daily mobile videos. The initiative transforms local stations into 24/7 story-first newsrooms, leveraging an immersive vertical video player and personalized feeds. Early results from beta markets show a tenfold increase in video consumption and a 40% rise in user sessions.
TEGNA Station WXIA Wins Prestigious 2026 Alfred I. duPont-Columbia Award for Groundbreaking Investigation, ‘Help that Harms’
TEGNA Inc. (NYSE: TGNA) announced that its Atlanta NBC affiliate, WXIA (11Alive), has won a 2026 Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University Award for its investigation "Help That Harms." This report exposed how families, particularly those bringing infants with unexplained injuries to emergency rooms, were unfairly subjected to child abuse allegations in Georgia. The investigation led to significant statewide reforms, including Ridge’s Law, which grants parents the right to seek a second medical opinion.
Tegna Expands Local News Offering with Revamped Mobile App
Tegna has launched new mobile apps across 50 markets to expand its local news offerings, delivering thousands of original daily mobile videos and real-time coverage. These apps are part of Tegna's strategy to transform its newsrooms into 24/7 story-first operations, focusing on speed and accuracy. Early results from beta markets show significant increases in video plays and user sessions, indicating a strong positive response to the personalized, video-centric approach.
TEGNA, With Nexstar Deal Pending, Debuts Mobile App
TEGNA has launched new local TV station-aligned mobile apps across 50 markets, aiming to provide local news and weather to viewers on their smartphones, a move that foreshadows the potential of ATSC 3.0 technology. The app offers personalized video feeds and is designed to deliver real-time, accurate local coverage. This initiative comes as TEGNA awaits regulatory approval for its merger agreement with Nexstar Media Group.
TEGNA Launches New Mobile App Across 50 Markets, Achieving 10x Increase in Video Consumption
TEGNA, Inc. has launched new mobile apps across 50 markets, aiming to enhance access to real-time local news and weather through personalized video content. During testing, the app showed a tenfold increase in video consumption and a 40% rise in user sessions, driven by TEGNA's revamped story-first newsrooms. Key features include a user-friendly interface, customizable feeds, in-depth local reporting, and advanced weather information, available on both the App Store and Google Play Store.
TEGNA Expands Local News Offering with First-of-Its-Kind Mobile App Delivering Thousands of Original Mobile Videos Daily from Trusted Local Reporters & Weather Teams
TEGNA Inc. has launched new mobile apps across 50 markets, offering thousands of original daily mobile videos and real-time news and weather coverage from trusted local journalists. The app is designed with a story-first approach, personalizing content for users and transforming TEGNA's local stations into 24/7 newsrooms. Early results from beta markets show a significant increase in video consumption and user sessions, demonstrating the app's success in delivering timely and engaging local news.
Tegna Bets On Mobile Video With App Overhaul
Tegna has launched new mobile apps across 50 markets, emphasizing vertical video content and a shift to story-centric, 24/7 news workflows. This initiative has resulted in a 10-fold increase in video plays and a 40% rise in user sessions during testing. The company aims to meet audiences on their mobile phones with personalized local news and weather delivered by trusted journalists in a social-native format.
More Than Two Dozen Groups Tell FCC to Reject Nexstar-Tegna Deal
Twenty-eight public-interest groups, labor unions, and civil-rights organizations have formally requested the FCC to deny the proposed merger between Nexstar and Tegna. They argue that the acquisition would create excessive concentration in local TV markets, increase cable and satellite prices, and harm local news and consumers, asserting that the FCC lacks the authority to approve such a deal. If approved, the merger would combine the nation's largest and fourth-largest television station conglomerates, resulting in a single entity operating 265 full-power stations across 44 states and 132 Designated Market Areas.
