What it is
Cord-cutting refers to the growing trend where consumers discontinue their subscriptions to traditional cable or satellite television packages. Instead, they opt for over-the-top (OTT) streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and various sports-specific platforms, to access entertainment and live content. This shift is often driven by the desire for lower costs, more flexible viewing options, and personalized content libraries, moving away from bundled channel packages.
Cord-cutting has profoundly impacted the media industry, leading to declining subscriber numbers and advertising revenues for traditional broadcasters and cable providers. This trend has accelerated the shift of sports media rights to streaming platforms, influencing how leagues and teams monetize their content. For investors, it signals a fundamental change in consumer behavior, affecting the valuations of media companies and the growth prospects of streaming services.
Why it matters
Cord-cutting impacts how you access sports, potentially offering cheaper, more flexible options but sometimes fragmenting content across many services.
Reviewed under editorial standardsUpdated September 26, 2026Not investment advice