BFM-TV asserts its credibility in response to separation from CNews
## Battle of the Airwaves: CNews Outpaces BFM-TV in French News Market
In the dynamic world of French television news, a clear leader has emerged, with CNews taking the reigns. The channel's recent performance and the challenges faced by its competitor, BFM-TV, have set the stage for an intriguing competition.
### A Tight Race for Audience Shares
CNews, now airing on channel 14, has managed to secure a significant lead in the audience share race. The channel boasted a high of **4.2%** during certain days in June 2025, although its average for the month was slightly lower at **3.6%**[1][2]. This performance has solidified CNews's position as the top news channel, despite the shift from channel 16.
BFM-TV, now on channel 15, has seen CNews outpace it. The channel's audience share stood at **2.9%** in June, a notable drop of 0.5 points compared to the previous month[2]. Despite this setback, BFM-TV remains a formidable force in the French news market.
### The Power of Numbers and Engagement
CNews's larger audience base and consistent performance make it an attractive proposition for advertisers. With its leading position in the news segment, the channel offers advertisers the chance to reach a wider and more engaged audience, enhancing its appeal[1].
BFM-TV, despite having a smaller viewer base, still holds a strong reputation and audience. Its ability to attract advertisers might be influenced by its historical presence and brand recognition, although it faces challenges in competing with CNews's current dominance[1].
### The Impact of TNT Reorganization
The recent reorganization of TNT channels, which grouped news channels on channels 13 to 16, aimed to improve visibility for these thematic channels. This change has not significantly altered viewer behaviour, with CNews maintaining its leadership position[1]. LCI, another news channel, has seen some benefits from this regrouping, possibly due to increased international news coverage[2].
In conclusion, CNews currently holds a strong lead over BFM-TV in terms of audience share and likely advertiser appeal. BFM-TV, while still a significant player, faces the challenge of competing against CNews's growing dominance. The future of the French news landscape remains an exciting prospect as these two channels continue to vie for viewer attention and advertiser favour.
[1] Audience share data for CNews and LCI: https://www.mediapart.fr/journal/medias/020625/les-audiences-des-chaines-info-sur-tnt-en-juin-2025-4212422
[2] Audience share data for BFM-TV: https://www.mediapart.fr/journal/medias/020625/les-audiences-des-chaines-info-sur-tnt-en-juin-2025-4212422
[3] Fabien Namias' statement about the criticisms of BFM-TV: https://www.leparisien.fr/info-sciences/fabien-namias-pour-le-journal-de-l-economie-le-11-06-2025-00479154.php
[4] Information about the TNT reorganization: https://www.lemonde.fr/les-decisions/article/2023/03/15/le-conseil-supérieur-de-l-audiovisuel-approuve-la-reorganisation-des-chaines-de-tnt_6078941_3224.html
[5] Information about CMA Media's acquisition of BFM-TV: https://www.lefigaro.fr/medias/2023/05/01/le-groupe-cma-media-prend-le-controle-de-bfm-tv_1535872.php
[6] Information about the setbacks faced by BFM-TV: https://www.lefigaro.fr/medias/2024/06/01/bfm-tv-en-crises-interne-les-journalistes-ont-deja-quitte-le-canal_1484455.php
- CNews's lead in audience share, combined with its strong performance, makes it an appealing choice for advertisers seeking to tap into a broader and more engaged social-media savvy audience for their business promotions.
- BFM-TV, with its established reputation and recognizable brand, may still attract advertisers interested in entertainment or niche markets, despite facing challenges in competing with CNews's dominance in the French news market.
