Here is more info. on today's shareholder meeting
Disney Upbeat at Meeting
By Sandy Brown
TheStreet.com Staff Reporter
3/10/2006 3:16 PM EST
Disney (DIS:NYSE) chief Bob Iger painted a bright picture of the media giant's future Friday.
In stark contrast to acrimonious events of recent years, Iger struck an upbeat tone at his first annual shareholder meeting as CEO. Along with touting its theme parks business, its pending Pixar (PIXR:Nasdaq) acquisition and the strength of ABC ratings, Iger outlined some other plans taking shape in Burbank, Calif.
Iger pointed out that Lost is seen 193 territories and Desperate Housewives in 203. He also tipped his hat to emerging DVD, iTunes and mobile-phone content platforms, noting that the company has hit 4 million downloads on the Apple (AAPL:Nasdaq) service since last fall.
Iger acknowledged the increasing power of the Internet, saying that Web-driven initiatives are on the rise. He said the company plans further content built around the popular brands.
Where TV is concerned, Iger said that "the power of traditional TV nets will be complemented by enhanced services," and that ABC network shows will be available on demand online. Iger said consumers will be able to watch episodes with advertising inserted for no charge on ABC.com, and to purchase episodes online that are advertising-free.
On Friday Disney shares were up 17 cents to $28.22.
