[icernet] A CAS for bullishness?

[Arul Selvan]

In theory, broadcasters and multi-system operators are likely to be the
biggest beneficiaries in the long-term as they will see a significant
improvement in subscription revenues under the CAS regime. However, there
could be many a slip between the cup and the lip. The main uncertainties
revolve around a few questions: will the overall monthly cable bills,
including the cost of set-top boxes, free-to-air channels and the top pay
channels be affordable to the average customer? How soon will customers
switch to STBs? Will the top three broadcasters (Star, Sony and Zee) remain
pay channels? If they don't, how badly will the MSOs be affected given that
they have already committed resources to get ready for CAS? Will viewership
for pay channels drop if subscription rates are too high? Or will the rise
in subscriptions offset drops in ad revenues?

Source:
http://www.rediff.com/money/2003/jun/16cas.htm