In a significant development in the media world, Hearst Corporation, one of the largest and most diversified media conglomerates in the U.S., has announced the acquisition of the Dallas Morning News and the creative marketing agency Medium Giant. The deal, which was finalized on July 10, 2025, has been valued at $14 per share, representing a 219% premium over the Dallas Morning News’ previous closing price. The transaction will close in the third or early fourth quarter of 2025, marking a major milestone for Hearst as it further solidifies its presence in Texas’ dynamic media landscape.
A Strategic Expansion into Texas’ Media Market
This acquisition marks Hearst’s most significant investment in Texas, a state with a booming economy and diverse media market. The deal strengthens Hearst’s ownership of key publications in the state, including the Austin American-Statesman, which it acquired in 2023, and positions the company as a dominant player in Texas media.
The Dallas Morning News, a Pulitzer Prize-winning newspaper, has served the Dallas-Fort Worth area for over 140 years. It has been a trusted news source for generations of Texans, and its acquisition reflects Hearst’s ongoing commitment to quality journalism in the digital age. The acquisition includes not only the newspaper itself but also the editorial team, which will continue producing high-quality investigative reporting and community-focused content.
Focus on Digital Growth and Journalistic Integrity
Hearst’s approach to growing its media empire includes a robust investment in digital infrastructure. Over the past several years, Hearst has successfully transitioned its portfolio of media properties toward more digital-first models, building out interactive websites, paywalls, and subscription models to capture the growing online readership.
For the Dallas Morning News, the acquisition means a strengthened focus on digital growth and editorial independence. As more readers turn to online news sources, Hearst is committed to maintaining the Dallas Morning News’ legacy of impactful journalism while driving the evolution of its digital presence. According to Michael S. Hearst, CEO of Hearst Corporation, the acquisition is part of the company’s broader strategy to build digital content platforms that continue to foster high-quality journalism and community engagement.
The Role of Medium Giant in the Deal
In addition to the newspaper acquisition, Hearst also purchased Medium Giant, an innovative marketing agency known for its creative digital strategies. Medium Giant will continue to operate as an independent agency under Hearst’s umbrella, working on integrated campaigns that combine creative content with data-driven insights.
The acquisition of Medium Giant enhances Hearst’s capabilities in digital marketing, helping to connect advertisers with targeted audiences while maintaining a focus on creativity and authenticity. This move positions Hearst to offer more diverse services to both local and national advertisers, expanding its revenue streams.
Implications for the Future of Texas Media
The acquisition of Dallas Morning News is expected to reshape the media landscape in Texas. As local news continues to face challenges across the country, this deal represents a significant step toward the future of journalism in a digital-first world. Hearst’s extensive resources and commitment to preserving journalistic integrity will likely help Dallas Morning News continue to thrive as a trusted source of news for years to come.
With the backing of Hearst, Dallas Morning News will also be able to expand its reach and deepen its impact in the community. As the company increases its digital and multimedia offerings, it will likely capture a broader, younger audience while staying true to its roots in investigative reporting.