ESPN, Sony partnering on India sports network

• ESPN (NYSE:DIS) and Sony (SNE -2.3%) are partnering to create a sports programming network in India with a comprehensive offering that could help "the worldwide leader in sports" with its subscription problem.
• Sony's Multi Screen Media already runs the Sony KIX sports channel there; it will rebrand as Sony ESPN and add a heavy digital presence (Web and mobile) to the TV programming.
• ESPN will add major college sports, boxing and the X Games to MSM's existing lineup featuring Indian Premier League cricket, European soccer, the NBA, NFL and rugby.
• The move suits strategy at both companies: Sony's efforts to move away from consumer electronics, and the chance for ESPN to boost subscriber growth as U.S. viewers cut the cord.
• Previously: Disney: Evercore sees upside; ESPN faces layoffs, budget cuts (Sep. 22 2015)
• Previously: Disney tumbles 8.9% after revenue miss; Iger talks ESPN again (Aug. 05 2015)
• Previously: Disney's Iger bullish on ESPN despite consumer changes, unbundling (Aug. 04 2015)