Media Board: acquisition of Ringier Hungary by Indamedia poses risks to media pluralism and editorial independence

The Media Board has assessed the acquisition of Ringier Hungary Kft. by Indamedia Network Zrt., in accordance with Article 23(1) of the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA). The Media Board concludes that the resulting media market concentration poses risks to media pluralism and editorial independence.

On October 31, 2025, it was announced that Indamedia Network Zrt., one of the largest players in the Hungarian media market, acquired sole ownership over Ringier Hungary Kft., together with its print and online publications. In its opinion, the Media Board considers that the acquisition is likely to affect the functioning of the internal market for media services. 

Amma Asante, chair of the Media Board, stated: ‘This media market concentration cannot be understood in isolation. Rather, it takes place in the context of a market where media pluralism and media freedom are under increasing pressure. Such market dynamics compound the risks to pluralism and editorial independence which the concentration operation at issue presents.’

Impact on media pluralism and editorial independence 

The Media Board notes that Indamedia’s capacity to influence the formation of public opinion has increased following the acquisition of Ringier Hungary. In particular, the acquisition of the Hungarian news website Blikk.hu and the print edition of the daily newspaper Blikk extends its reach to segments of the Hungarian population to which it previously had limited access.By acquiring a significant portfolio of print media titles, the group has diversified its activities across various media sectors, gaining a new position in the daily print newspaper market. In addition, the group has further consolidated its dominant position in the online news portal space, with the combined ownership of Index.hu and Blikk.hu. 

Overall, the acquisition raises concerns about a potential reduction of competing views in the Hungarian media market. More generally, the Media Board observes that Hungarian legislation lacks adequate safeguards to ensure editorial independence. The Media Board notes the absence of an assessment at national level of the market concentration, in accordance with Article 22(1) and 22(2) of the EMFA. It is noted that, in the absence of a national review of the concentration, the Media Board is not aware of any specific commitments that have been made publicly, or formally proposed, by the parties involved to ensure the protection of media pluralism and editorial independence.

The Media Board and media market concentrations

The Media Board, established in February 2025, is an independent body that supports and advises the European Commission on media-related matters. It promotes cooperation among national regulators, as well as the consistent and effective application of EU media rules for media services. The Media Board seeks to contribute to a free, pluralistic, trustworthy and competitive European media ecosystem. 

EMFA obliges Member States to lay down national rules for the assessment of media market concentrations that could have a significant impact on media pluralism and editorial independence. Where such concentrations are likely to affect the functioning of the internal market for media services, the Media Board should be consulted. 

In the absence of an assessment or consultation in accordance with EMFA, the Media Board can step in, and, at its own initiative, or at the request of the European Commission, provide its opinion on the concentration’s impact on media pluralism and editorial independence. 

The full opinion of the Media Board on the acquisition of Ringier Hungary by Indamedia can be read here.