Music Business Worldwide reported that Universal Music Group generated €403 million (about $467 million) from selling a portion of its Spotify equity in the first half of 2026. The company estimates that the transaction could translate into roughly $131 million for its roster of artists. In the same period, Spotify announced it had crossed the 300 million Premium subscriber milestone, adding 7 million net users, and posted an operating profit of $762 million for the quarter.
The weekly roundup also noted that Warner Music Group saw an 11 percent year‑over‑year rise in subscription‑streaming revenue for calendar Q2 2026. Despite the upbeat figures, CFO Armin Zerza departed the firm for personal reasons rather than performance concerns. Additionally, AI music platform Suno announced plans to offer 12‑inch vinyl pressings of tracks created with its generative technology.
Merlin entered a new licensing arrangement with Spotify that will power an AI‑driven tool allowing Premium members to produce paid fan‑made covers and remixes. The service, slated for launch later this year, will draw from catalogues owned by participating Merlin members, giving songwriters and artists a share of revenue from these user‑generated versions.
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