The Weather Channel has over the years turned into a peculiarly popular attraction. Whether by viewer habit or by the simple fact that its name describes precisely what it is, it has become the preeminent source for weather readings and forecasts. And NBC Universal evidently likes what it sees in TWC, because it, along with Bain Capital and The Blackstone Group, just announced the acquisition of the property, whole hog, including the cable television network and its sterling Web-based businesses.
So, score for NBC and friends? Despite the rather woeful picture of the investment market today, it’s safe to assume the company will not be risking much in this investment. The Weather Channel is a virtual staple in each sector it inhabits. It’s served to a 97% of US-based cable television subscribers. Barring any significant technological advancements by the competition (Accuweather, etc.), meterological ubiquity is now very much in the hands of NBC Universal. That’s quite a sword to wield at present.