Newsmax has released its 2026 first-quarter financial results. The company reported an overall revenue increase during the period.
What We Know: Newsmax saw an overall revenue increase during the quarter. The increase was largely driven by an increase in subscription revenue. That comes on the heels of finishing the period as the fourth most-watched cable news network. Also during the quarter, Newsmax surpassed 25 million social media followers.
What the Numbers Show:
| Category: | 2026: | 2025: | Change: |
|---|---|---|---|
| Broadcasting Advertising | $23.7 million | $24.6 million | -3.7% |
| Broadcasting Affiliate Fee | $13.0 million | $7.4 million | +75.2% |
| Digital Advertising | $3.5 million | $4.3 million | -18.1% |
| Subscription | $3.0 million | $3.3 million | -10.1% |
| Total Revenue | $51.7 million | $45.3 million | +14.0% |
The company’s Adjusted EBITDA was down from $800,000 to $400,000 during 2026’s first quarter.
What They Said: “In the first quarter, we increased viewership, gained traction with younger demographics and saw continued momentum across Newsmax2, Newsmax+, and social media. While the industry is lapping unusually high election-driven news consumption from early 2025, our first quarter rankings demonstrate that Newsmax continues to perform strongly in a more normalized environment. We are also making further strides as a global news brand and continuing to attract unique viewers that reinforce the significant opportunity we see in the under-served center-right market. These results reflect the strength of our brand, the loyalty of our audience and the value of our multi-platform strategy.” -Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy
What It Means: The financial figures come after Newsmax revealed it is projecting a 13% increase in overall revenue for 2026 late last week. The company is also pointing to its digital offerings, like the Newsmax+ streaming home and Newsmax2 as revenue generators.
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Garrett Searight is Barrett Media’s News Editor, which includes writing daily news stories, features, and opinion columns. He joined Barrett Media in 2022 after a decade leading several radio brands in several formats, as well as a 5-year stint working in local television. In addition to his work with Barrett Media, he is a radio and TV play-by-play broadcaster. Reach out to him at Garrett@BarrettMedia.com.
