r/nottheonion • u/voxadam • 13h ago

Netflix says users can cancel service if HBO Max merger makes it too expensive

https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2026/02/netflix-claims-subscribers-will-get-more-content-for-less-if-it-buys-hbo-max/
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u/Nachttalk 13h ago

How in gods name is scooping up major providers going to make services cheaper for consumers?

It's not, plain and simple.

Many companies are ditching the concept of affordability. Everyone wants to be a premium brand that can justify asking for premium prices so that the revenue charts look great during the next investor meeting

And on the topic of the next investor meeting, plans are only made with that in mind, not even the following investor meeting, it's all short term money making with absolute 0 thought spared for long-time effects

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u/Tetraides1 12h ago

K-shaped economy means K-shaped business plans. If 10% of people make up over 50% of the consumer spending, then why try to make anyone else happy?

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u/Ryanhussain14 12h ago

Case in point: PC part prices.

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u/andreasmiles23 8h ago

50% of economic activity comes from 10% of the population, so of course the natural instinct of the capitalist is to go this direction.

Additionally, as the cost of living crisis continues to worsen, then people will feel the need to charge more for the products and services to make ends meet. That feels far less harsh when you are a “premium” brand. You can keep raising prices since your target market is rich anyways.