- For the first time, revenue from music downloads/subscriptions passed CD sales in 2014, according to a new trade group report.
- The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry reports that while overall sales were steady worldwide at about $15B, CD/physical formats slipped 8% to $6.82B, vs. digital revenue that grew 7% to $6.85B. The remainder of sales came from licensing/radio play.
- Streaming services (including Spotify, Pandora (NYSE:P), and Apple's Beats Music) showed strong growth in 2014, with revenues that grew a combined 39% Y/Y. The services now make up 32% of digital revenue (23% of digital revenue from subscription services, 9% from ad-supported streaming).
- The music industry "big three": Universal Music Group (OTCPK:VIVHY), Sony Music Entertainment (NYSE:SNE), Warner Music Group (private)