Versant Media Group

When was Versant created?
Versant Media Group was created through the spin-off of Comcast Corporation's cable television networks, with regular-way trading on Nasdaq beginning January 5, 2026, under the ticker symbol VSNT.

What brands does Versant own?
Versant owns CNBC, MSNBC, USA Network, E!, Syfy, Oxygen, Golf Channel, Fandango, Rotten Tomatoes, GolfNow, GolfPass, and SportsEngine.

Is Versant publicly traded?
Yes. Versant trades on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol VSNT. The company was created through a tax-free spin-off from Comcast Corporation.

What is the relationship between Versant and Comcast?
Versant was spun off from Comcast and operates as a completely independent company. Comcast retained NBC, Telemundo, Peacock, Universal Pictures, and the theme park businesses. There is no ongoing ownership relationship between the two companies.

In January 2025, Comcast Corporation announced plans to spin off most of its cable television networks into a separate publicly traded company, initially referred to as "SpinCo." The spin-off was designed to separate Comcast's declining linear cable television assets from its growth businesses in streaming, broadband, and theme parks.

The spin-off was completed on January 5, 2026, when Versant Media Group commenced regular-way trading on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol VSNT. The company was named Versant to reflect its independent identity and forward-looking media strategy.

Versant's strategy focuses on growing the digital presence of its portfolio brands and making strategic acquisitions beyond pure media plays. For CNBC specifically, the company has indicated interest in expanding into personal finance and fintech platforms to leverage CNBC's brand authority in business and financial news.

Versant faces challenges typical of the media industry, including declining cable subscribers, regulatory scrutiny over media ownership, and the need to adapt business models to streaming and digital consumption. The spin-off from Comcast was viewed by industry analysts as an acknowledgment of the structural challenges facing linear cable television.