EchoStar in Talks to Sell Dish Network to DirecTV

EchoStar is reportedly in advanced talks to sell its Dish Network pay-TV business to rival DirecTV, with a potential announcement expected soon. This all-cash deal, valued at over $9 billion, aims to alleviate EchoStar's urgent need to manage $1.98 billion in debt maturing in November, as the company faces looming bankruptcy. Both Dish and DirecTV have struggled with declining subscriber bases due to the rise of streaming services, making this merger a critical move for financial stability. If completed, the combined entity would become the largest pay-TV provider in the U.S., controlling nearly 20 million subscribers. However, the deal's success is uncertain, hinging on regulatory approval and creditor negotiations. The ongoing discussions reflect a transforming pay-TV landscape, where competition and viability are increasingly challenged by streaming alternatives.