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Universal Music Sells Half Its Spotify Stake to Fund Share Buyback

economy-finance · 2026-04-29

Universal Music Group (UMG) is selling half of its stake in Spotify to fund a doubled share buyback program. The sale comes as UMG reported flat first-quarter revenue of €2.9 billion, with a weak U.S. dollar offsetting 8.1% constant-currency growth. The move signals a strategic shift in UMG's investment portfolio and capital allocation.

Key facts

  • UMG is selling half its Spotify stake.
  • The sale funds a doubled share buyback.
  • First-quarter revenue held flat at €2.9 billion.
  • A weak U.S. dollar offset 8.1% constant-currency growth.
  • The decision reflects a strategic portfolio shift.

Entities

Institutions

  • Universal Music Group
  • Spotify

Sources