Aug 18, 2017

Studios reportedly nearing digital distribution deal with Apple, Comcast

Warner Bros. and Universal Pictures are negotiating a deal with Apple and Comcast to offer audiences digital versions of movies two weeks after their theatre releases, Bloomberg reports. Sources familiar with the matter tell Bloomberg that the deal could come as early as next year. As more consumers watch movies via streaming services, studios want a digital distribution package that help will make up for the decline in DVD sales and home entertainment.

Why it matters: The theatre chain and studio businesses have been unable to compromise on a more expensive ($30+) digital movie option. At issue for some studios is the cost/benefit analysis of charging ahead without the blessing of theatre chains, who still hold enormous power distributing movies and driving revenue. Noticeably missing from the negotiations is Disney, which announced it would build its own entertainment streaming package.

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Caitlin Owens

Coronavirus stress tests drug industry's dependence on China

A Hong Kong commuter wears a face mask. Photo: Miguel Candela/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

It's unclear whether the rapid spread of the novel coronavirus will actually result in prescription drug shortages, but it has undoubtedly highlighted the potential vulnerabilities of having the supply chain for American drugs so dependent on China.

Driving the news: About 150 prescription drugs — including antibiotics, generics and some branded drugs without alternatives — are at risk of shortage if the coronavirus outbreak in China worsens, per two sources familiar with a list of at-risk drugs compiled by the Food and Drug Administration.

Go deeper50 mins ago - Health

Jim VandeHei

Bernie's path to the presidency

Sen. Bernie Sanders speaks yesterday during a rally at Houston University. Photo: Mark Felix/AFP via Getty Images

Lots of Democrats are in full panic that Bernie Sanders will win the nomination and get clobbered in the general election — and bring the party down, too. But the evidence, particularly the polling, doesn't back those doomsday warnings.

Why it matters: Virtually every national and swing state poll shows Sanders tied with or beating President Trump. And, unlike every rival, he has a huge base of fervent, unshakable supporters he can only grow.

Go deeper1 hour ago - Politics & Policy

Amy Harder

These swing voters don't like Trump’s environmental rollbacks

Illustration: Sarah Grillo/Axios

Swing voters in four battleground states decisively oppose President Trump’s sweeping rollbacks of environmental regulations — but it’s unlikely to sway their votes.

Why it matters: It’s voters living in states like these, including Florida and Pennsylvania, who fill pivotal roles electing America’s presidents, so we should listen.

Go deeper2 hours ago - Energy & Environment