Spotify acquires Podcast creators Gimlet Media and Anchor
Spotify has announced that it has entered into definitive agreements to acquire Gimlet Media Inc. and Anchor podcast creation, publishing, and monetization services. Gimlet will bring its best-in-class podcast studio with dedicated IP development, production, and advertising capabilities. While Anchor will bring its platform of tools for podcast creators and its creator base. The transactions are expected to close in the first quarter of 2019 and subject to customary closing conditions. Anchor is currently powering more than 40% of all new podcasts and through the recent launch of Anchor Sponsorships, the company has already more than doubled the number of total podcasters in the market who’ve been able to generate revenue by advertising. Anchor also clarified that the way users create, distribute, and monetize on Anchor does not change. And that it will continue to operate the platform as is. Daniel Ek, Spotify co-founder, and CEO said: These acquisitions will meaningfully accelerate our path to becoming the world’s leading audio platform, give users around the world access to the best podcast content, and improve the quality of our listening experience as well as enhance the Spotify brand. We are proud to welcome Gimlet and Anchor to the Spotify team, and we look forward to what we will accomplish together. Alex Blumberg ... 
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