Increased Earnings for Universal Music Group: A 6.9% Revenue Hike Reported for the First Half of 2025
Universal Music Group Reports Strong Q2 2025 Results
Universal Music Group (UMG) has announced its Q2 2025 financial results, showing a 4.5% year-over-year increase in revenue to €2.98 billion, driven by growth in recorded music and music publishing.
The growth in recorded music revenue was 1.1% (3.9% in constant currency) to approximately €2.224 billion. Subscription revenue saw a significant increase of 5.3% (8.5% constant currency), while streaming revenue grew by 4.4% (9.1% constant currency). Music publishing revenue surged 11.5% (14.5% constant currency) in Q2 2025.
Adusted EBITDA for the quarter was €676 million, a 7.3% increase in constant currency. The growth in revenue was primarily driven by the growth in recorded music and music publishing.
For the first half (H1) of 2025, UMG posted revenue of €5.881 billion, up 6.9% in constant currency. Recorded music revenue increased 7% to €4.464 billion, and music publishing grew 12.1% to €1.125 billion. Subscription revenue within recorded music grew 8.9% year-over-year, and streaming revenue saw a 4.6% increase. Adjusted EBITDA for H1 rose 8.5% to €1.336 billion.
Physical revenue declined slightly by 0.5% in H1, while downloads and other digital revenue rose 17.2%. Notable top sellers in H1 include Lady Gaga, Morgan Wallen, Sabrina Carpenter, Kendrick Lamar, and The Weeknd.
License and other revenue improved by 8.6% for the first half of 2025, but decreased by 6.5% for Q2. This decrease was partially offset by a 50% increase in downloads and other digital revenue due to a settlement with an internet service provider.
UMG's chairman and CEO, Sir Lucian Grainge, attributed the company's strong Q2 results to the combination of creative excellence and strategic vision.
Sources: - Music Week (2025-07-31): [link 1] - Universal Music official report (2025-07-31): [link 3] - Ainvest (2025-07-31): [link 2]
- The strong Q2 2025 results of Universal Music Group (UMG) are indicative of growth not only in the music industry but also in their associated business ventures, as seen in the 11.5% surge in music publishing revenue.
- Universal Music Group's Q2 2025 financial report highlights a remarkable 12.1% increase in music publishing revenue, demonstrating a significant contribution to the overall entertainment finance landscape.
