In this article, we will take a look at the 11 best communication and media stocks to buy according to analysts.
The communication and media sectors play a crucial role in connecting people and distributing information. These sectors are becoming increasingly significant in the modern economy and society. As technology advances, both the communication and media industries are expected to experience strong growth in the foreseeable future.
According to a report by The Business Research Company, the global media market alone was valued at $2.61 trillion in 2024. The market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.7% during 2025-2029 to reach a value of $2.83 trillion by the end of the forecast period. In 2024, North America was the largest region in the global media market.
READ ALSO: 10 Best 5G Stocks to Invest in According to Analysts and 10 Best Low Priced Technology Stocks To Buy Now.
Another report from The Business Research Company shows that the global telecommunication market was estimated to have a value of $2.98 trillion in 2024. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.6% from 2025 to 2029 and reach above $3.93 trillion by the end of this period. In 2024, Asia-Pacific held the largest share of the global media market while North America was the second largest region.
Recent trends indicate a shift towards new and advanced technologies like 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT). According to PwC’s Global Telecom Outlook 2023-2027, telecom companies are expected to make significant investments in the infrastructure to better serve customers. As the shift towards 5G technology progresses and the demand for new technological standards rises, telecom companies are projected to invest $342.1 billion in their networks in 2027 alone.
PwC’s inaugural Global Telecom Outlook notes that telecom companies might need to change their strategies in a competitive environment and look for new growth opportunities in areas such as IoT solutions, private 5G networks for business customers, and fixed wireless home broadband for households. In some markets, these companies can also provide digital infrastructure, data, content, and platform services customized to the needs of various industries like entertainment and media, healthcare, and manufacturing. To stay competitive in this changing market, telecom companies must become more comfortable operating within broader ecosystems and looking beyond traditional services.
With this background in mind, let’s take a look at the 11 best communication and media stocks to buy according to analysts.
A view of the downtown skyline, showing the interconnected nature of the telecommunications sector.
Methodology
To compile our list of the 11 best communication and media stocks to buy according to analysts, we looked for the largest media and communication companies. We reviewed our own rankings, financial media reports, and various online resources to compile a list of the best communication and media stocks. Next, we focused on the top communication and media stocks that analysts believe have the most potential for growth. We ranked the 11 best communication and media stocks to invest in based on their average price target upside potential according to analysts as of January 29, 2024.
Additionally, we mentioned the hedge fund sentiment surrounding each stock, which was taken from Insider Monkey’s Q3 2024 database of 900 elite hedge funds.
Why do we care about what hedge funds do? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletter’s strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 275% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 150 percentage points (see more details here).
11 Best Communication and Media Stocks to Buy According to Analysts
11. BCE Inc. (NYSE:BCE)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 24.77%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 20
BCE Inc. (NYSE:BCE) is Canada’s largest communications company and it specializes in television, internet, wireless, media, voice, and technology services. The company has made significant infrastructure investments in its fiber and wireless networks. It offers 5G+, 5G, 4G LTE, and wireless home internet services. BCE Inc. (NYSE:BCE) ranks among the best communication stocks to invest in according to analysts.
The company is making strategic moves to expand and enhance its services. In November 2024, BCE Inc. (NYSE:BCE) announced its intention to acquire Ziply Fiber for a transaction value of approximately C$7.0 billion. This acquisition, which is expected to close in the second half of 2025, will extend the company’s fiber footprint to the US. By the end of 2028, BCE Inc. (NYSE:BCE) aims to reach over 12 million fiber internet locations across the US and Canada. By becoming a major fiber internet provider in North America, the company aims to unlock significant growth opportunities.
The company’s media division is also making good progress. In Q3 2024, BCE Inc. (NYSE:BCE) reported that Bell Media revenue increased 10.1% year-over-year, supported by a 19% increase in digital revenues. This growth was driven by continued growth in products like Crave with ads and Connected TV. Digital now makes up 42% of total media revenues. BCE Inc. (NYSE:BCE) announced that it has entered into a content and licensing agreement with NBC Universal to launch USA Network and Oxygen True Crime cable channels in Canada for the first time. This move will enhance the company’s media offerings.
10. Liberty Broadband Corporation (NASDAQ:LBRDK)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 27.87%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 63
Liberty Broadband Corporation (NASDAQ:LBRDK) is a major cable operator in the United States and a leading broadband communications services company. It offers cable, wireless, video, internet, and voice services. The company’s main assets consist of its interest in Charter Communications and its subsidiary GCI, which is Alaska’s largest communications provider. As of July 31, 2024, the company owns 45.6m shares of Charter common stock. Liberty Broadband Corporation (NASDAQ:LBRDK) ranks among the best communication stocks to invest in according to analysts.
In November 2024, Liberty Broadband Corporation (NASDAQ:LBRDK) announced that it had entered into an agreement with Charter Communications under which Charter has agreed to acquire Liberty Broadband Corporation (NASDAQ:LBRDK) in an all-stock transaction. The companies expect this transaction to conclude in June 2027. The market has reacted well to this news and LBRDK may see further benefits from this arrangement.
Madison Investments, an investment advisor, discussed Liberty Broadband Corporation (NASDAQ:LBRDK) in its “Madison Mid Cap Fund” third-quarter 2024 investor letter. The fund noted that Liberty Broadband Corporation (NASDAQ:LBRDK) shares rose significantly after news emerged regarding a possible acquisition of Liberty Broadband by Charter Communications. The investment management firm pointed out that this news has helped reduce the valuation gap between Liberty Broadband Corporation (NASDAQ:LBRDK) shares and the market value of the company’s ownership in Charter shares. However, the fund believes that there is still a significant gap and there is plenty of value to be unlocked.
9. Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 28.48%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 72
Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA) is an American multinational mass media and technology corporation that specializes in telecommunications, entertainment, sports, and news. Through its brands Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky, the company provides broadband, wireless, and video services. Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA) also produces and distributes leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands like NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky. CMCSA is one of the best communication and media stocks to buy according to analysts.
The company offers extensive wireless coverage and it is strategically focused on investing in growing and enhancing its network. To fund the largest network upgrade in the US, Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA) has invested more than $20 billion since 2018. In December 2024, the company shifted its 5G wireless core to Amazon Web Services (AWS). This move from on-premise infrastructure to a cloud-based network will allow Xfinity Mobile and Comcast Business Mobile to offer customers more scalable, secure, and cost-effective 5G wireless services using Comcast’s licensed spectrum across the country.
The company is also making moves to enhance its media and cable services. Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA) announced an 11-year deal to present NBA and WNBA games starting with the 2025-26 season. The company also announced its plans to spin off select cable television networks.
8. United States Cellular Corporation (NYSE:USM)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 33.23%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 21
United States Cellular Corporation (NYSE:USM) is an American mobile network operator that provides a comprehensive range of wireless products and services and a strong, reliable network. With 4.5 million retail connections in 21 states, it is one of the largest full-service wireless carriers in the US. United States Cellular Corporation (NYSE:USM) owns a network of more than 4,000 towers that are available for asset sharing and leasing. The towers are located in strategic locations that offer reliable coverage, also in rural areas. USM is one of the best communication stocks to buy.
The company is making strategic moves to optimize its structure. In May 2024, United States Cellular Corporation (NYSE:USM) entered into an agreement to sell its wireless operations and select spectrum assets to T-Mobile. This transaction, which is expected to conclude in mid-2025, excludes United States Cellular Corporation’s (NYSE:USM) 4,400 towers, equity method investments, and approximately 70% of the corporation’s spectrum assets. To focus its resources better, the company has entered into several other transactions. In October, United States Cellular Corporation (NYSE:USM) announced a sale of select spectrum assets for $1 billion. The company also entered into additional spectrum sales to 2 other network operators.
Additionally, over the past few years, United States Cellular Corporation (NYSE:USM) made strategic investments to enhance its network and improve 5G coverage in its footprint. Looking ahead, the company’s future network investments are expected to be aimed at the deployment of mid-band spectrum to enhance 5G speed and capacity.
7. TIM S.A. (NYSE:TIMB)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 36.61%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 16
TIM S.A. (NYSE:TIMB), also known as TIM Brasil, is a Brazilian telecommunications company that provides mobile and fixed telephony services, including voice calls, text messages, and internet access. It has more than 60 million mobile customers and about 180,000 kilometers of fiber optics across Brazil. TIM S.A. (NYSE:TIMB) is a leader in 4G coverage in the country and has a presence in 100% of the municipalities, including rural areas. It is also the pioneer of 5G technology in Brazil. TIMB ranks among the best communication stocks to buy according to analysts.
The company is strategically focused on improving its operational strategies and market position by expanding its 5G network and enhancing customer experiences. In the third quarter of 2024, TIM S.A. (NYSE:TIMB) significantly expanded its postpaid customer base by adding 709,000 new lines. This was driven by improved customer management and attractive postpaid offers that boosted customer loyalty and satisfaction.
Additionally, TIM S.A. (NYSE:TIMB) continues to expand 5G coverage across Brazil. By the end of September 2024, the company’s 5G services were available in 495 cities. TIM S.A.’s (NYSE:TIMB) strategic plan for 2024-2026 is aimed at growing the company’s service revenue at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4-6%.
6. Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS (NYSE:TKC)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 37.08%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 4
Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS (NYSE:TKC), or simply Turkcell, is a major mobile phone operator and telecommunication and technology services provider based in Turkey. The company provides voice, data, TV, and value-added consumer and enterprise services on mobile and fixed networks. Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS (NYSE:TKC) also has investments abroad and with its wide coverage area and diverse range of services, it serves customers in Turkey and around the world.
The company is focused on efforts to expand its subscriber base while also divesting less profitable and non-core assets. In Q3 2024, Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS (NYSE:TKC) reported impressive growth in its Turkey subscriber base with 322,000 net additions. Overall, the company added a net of 515,000 postpaid subscribers, bringing the total net additions for the last 12 months to 1.9 million. The company’s postpaid subscriber base now represents 74% of its total subscriber base.
In September 2024, Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS (NYSE:TKC) completed the divestment of its assets in Ukraine to create shareholder value and improve the company’s financial standing. Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS (NYSE:TKC) no longer holds any shares, rights, or liabilities in Lifecell LLC, LLC Global Bilgi, and LLC Ukrtower operating in Ukraine. Following this move, the company’s cash position increased to TRY 82 billion.
5. Perusahaan Perseroan (Persero) PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia Tbk (NYSE:TLK)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 38.07%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 7
Perusahaan Perseroan (Persero) PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia Tbk (NYSE:TLK), also simply known as PT Telkom Indonesia (Persero) Tbk, is an Indonesian multinational telecommunications corporation. The government of Indonesia is the majority owner of Telkom Indonesia’s shares. The company owns a number of businesses that operate in various sectors including fixed-line telephony, internet, multimedia, digital telecommunications, and information and communication technology. According to analysts, PT Telkom Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (NYSE:TLK) is one of the best communication stocks to invest in.
The company plays a crucial role in the country’s digital transformation and has positioned itself well to benefit from the smart city trend in Indonesia. Perusahaan Perseroan (Persero) PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia Tbk (NYSE:TLK) covers more than 500 cities and regencies in Indonesia to support the government’s digitization initiatives. In terms of network availability, the company’s 4G service reaches about 97% of the population, supported by a robust infrastructure that includes 265,000 base transceiver stations (BTS) and the most extensive fiber optic network in Indonesia.
Additionally, PT Telkom Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (NYSE:TLK) is looking to capitalize on the high demand for data centers in Singapore by expanding its data center capabilities. As of October 2024, the company has a capacity of 42 MW, which the company plans to increase to 60 MW through the development of a hyperscale data center in Cikarang, Indonesia. PT Telkom Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (NYSE:TLK) believes that the overseas data center business could become a revenue generator in the future.
4. América Móvil SAB de CV (NYSE:AMX)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 38.82%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 8
América Móvil SAB de CV (NYSE:AMX) is a major Mexican telecommunications company that specializes in communications, information technology, and digital content. It is one of the largest mobile network operators in the world and it offers its products and services in 22 countries across Latin America and Europe. América Móvil SAB de CV (NYSE:AMX) ranks among the best communication stocks to invest in.
In Q3 2024, the company added 1.8 million subscribers, including 1.4 million postpaid subscribers. Brazil added 291 thousand and Colombia contributed 159 thousand. Additionally, in the fixed-line segment, América Móvil SAB de CV (NYSE:AMX) successfully connected 327,000 new broadband accesses in the quarter.
The company has the most extensive 5G network in Latin America and it is strategically focused on expanding its 5G business. To stay ahead of the competition while also offering better quality and speed to customers, the company will be looking to continue investing in 5G technology in 2025. Previously, in April 2024, América Móvil SAB de CV (NYSE:AMX) said that a primary aim for its $7 billion capital expenditure guidance for 2024 was expanding its 5G network. In October 2024, the company announced that it had integrated ClaroVTR into its ongoing operations. This transaction makes América Móvil SAB de CV (NYSE:AMX) a leading telecommunication service provider in Chile by providing integrated services and next-generation offerings through its 5G network.
3. News Corporation (NASDAQ:NWSA)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 41.84%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 46
News Corporation (NASDAQ:NWSA), or simply News Corp, is an American mass media and publishing company that ranks among the best communication and media stocks to buy according to analysts. The company’s portfolio of brands operates in various sectors including digital real estate, news media, book publishing, and cable television. Some of the News Corporation’s (NASDAQ:NWSA) key assets are Dow Jones & Company, which publishes The Wall Street Journal, News UK, which publishes The Sun and The Times, and HarperCollins, a book publisher. The company also operates digital real estate services and subscription video services in Australia.
The company is strategically focused on optimizing its portfolio and enhancing its core segments. In December 2024, News Corporation (NASDAQ:NWSA) announced an agreement to sell Foxtel for an enterprise value of A$3.4 billion. This move is part of a broader strategy to simplify the structure of the company and focus more on key growth areas such as Dow Jones, digital real estate services, and book publishing.
The company is also focused on a disciplined investment and management strategy to improve profitability. In the first quarter of its fiscal 2025, which ended on September 30, 2024, News Corporation (NASDAQ:NWSA) reported record first-quarter revenue and record first-quarter profitability. Revenue increased 3% year-over-year to reach $2.58 billion, while profitability surged 14% to $415 million. The profit margin increased from 14.6% a year ago to 16.1%, with recurring circulation and subscription revenues continuing to grow. The company has effectively reduced its reliance on the volatile advertising market. News Corporation (NASDAQ:NWSA) also reported that Dow Jones has managed to double its earnings since its re-segmentation 4 years ago.
2. IAC Inc. (NASDAQ:IAC)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 48.61%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 50
IAC Inc. (NASDAQ:IAC) is an American holding company that owns a variety of brands, primarily in media and internet. The company’s business model allows it to strategically establish, invest in, and acquire new products and brands. IAC Inc. (NASDAQ:IAC) has business locations worldwide and its portfolio of brands includes category-leading businesses like Angi, Dotdash Meredith, and Care.com.
The company is currently looking to reorganize and simplify its structure. On January 13, 2025, IAC Inc. (NASDAQ:IAC) announced its Board of Directors has approved a plan to spin off the company’s full stake in Angi. This move will give IAC shareholders direct ownership of Angi and IAC and Angi will become completely separate entities. This strategic move will simplify IAC Inc. (NASDAQ:IAC) and allow the company to focus on its broader portfolio and new growth opportunities. The spin-off will also enhance the company’s ability to use its stock to make acquisitions and incentivize employees.
Longleaf Partners, managed by Southeastern Asset Management, discussed IAC Inc. (NASDAQ:IAC) in its “Partners Fund” fourth quarter 2024 investor letter. The investment management fund highlighted IAC’s strong operational results and noted that the key Dotdash Meredith segment achieved accelerating double-digit cash flow growth through 2024. However, IAC’s stock price remains heavily influenced by Angi’s stock price performance, despite Angi representing only a small percentage of IAC’s overall value. Longleaf Partners expects that this will change in 2025 as IAC Inc. (NASDAQ:IAC) has announced the spin-off of its ownership of Angi. The market took the announcement to mean short-term stock price pressure, but Longleaf Partners expects that this spin-off will allow the market to focus on IAC’s high-quality assets like Dotdash Meredith. Additionally, IAC Inc. (NASDAQ:IAC) will recognize the value of its other assets, like Care.com and Turo. Longleaf Partners believes that with a strong net cash balance sheet, IAC is well-equipped to make strategic moves in any market environment.
1. Rogers Communications Inc. (NYSE:RCI)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 63.89%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 24
Rogers Communications Inc. (NYSE:RCI) is a leading Canadian communications and entertainment company that specializes in wireless communications, cable television, telephony and internet services. The company has significant additional telecommunications and mass media assets and boasts one of the most extensive and advanced high-speed wireless networks in Canada. RCI is one of the best communication stocks to invest in according to analysts.
The company has a strong market presence and this helps it achieve impressive results. In 2024, Rogers Communications Inc. (NYSE:RCI) exceeded $20 billion in annual revenue. This achievement was supported by combined mobile phone and internet net additions of 623,000. Over the past 12 quarters, the company added industry-best 2 million mobile phone and internet subscribers.
The company is focused on strategic investments and partnerships to grow its business. Rogers Communications Inc. (NYSE:RCI) invested a record $4 billion in capital expenditures in 2024, primarily on its networks. The company substantially completed its 5G network build along the Highway of Tears in British Columbia. Additionally, Rogers Communications Inc. (NYSE:RCI) signed significant deals with major media companies to expand its media offerings. Afterward, on January 1, 2025, the company launched channels for HGTV, Food Network, Discovery, and others.
Overall, RCI ranks first among the 11 best communication and media stocks to buy according to analysts. While we acknowledge the potential of communication and media companies, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and doing so within a shorter time frame. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than RCI but that trades at less than 5 times its earnings, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock.
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