Investing

Blockbuster (BBI) Goes Download Two Year Too Late

Blockbuster (BBI) bought Movielink, a premium video content download service owned by several Hollywood studios. The price was rumored to be $20 million.

The move is almost certainly two years too late. In 2005, Blockbuster might have used the data from its huge subscriber base to sign up customers who could use its stores, DVD-through-the-mail business, and a movie download options. It would have been the most compelling package in the industry.

But, Blockbusters waited as digital cable built a VOD platform and signed up million of customers. It waited while Apple (AAPL) added movies to the iTunes download service. It waited while Wal-Mart (WMT) opened its own movies-over-the-internet service. Then, it waited while Amazon (AMZN) and Tivo (TIVO) launched the unBox.

With its shares down 40% over the last two years, it waited too long.

Douglas A. McIntyre

If You’ve Been Thinking About Retirement, Pay Attention (sponsor)

Retirement planning doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. The key is finding expert guidance—and SmartAsset’s simple quiz makes it easier than ever for you to connect with a vetted financial advisor.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Answer a Few Simple Questions. Tell us a bit about your goals and preferences—it only takes a few minutes!
  2. Get Matched with Vetted Advisors Our smart tool matches you with up to three pre-screened, vetted advisors who serve your area and are held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. Click here to begin
  3. Choose Your  Fit Review their profiles, schedule an introductory call (or meet in person), and select the advisor who feel is right for you.

Why wait? Start building the retirement you’ve always dreamed of. Click here to get started today! (sponsor)

 

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.