Breaking: ARY Group Set to Acquire Nukta in High-Stakes Media Deal

The ARY Group is on the verge of acquiring Nukta, the Dubai-based digital media platform launched in November 2024 by senior journalist Kamran Khan and financially backed by property tycoon Malik Riaz, according to a senior official familiar with the deal.

Sources say only “a few final details” remain before the agreement is formally announced — a move that would effectively mark the end of Nukta as an independent, ambitious digital media startup less than a year after its high-profile launch.

Nukta entered Pakistan’s competitive media landscape with aggressive hiring, reportedly offering double salaries to journalists from established newsrooms. Its business model relied heavily on YouTube monetisation, digital advertising, events, and consultancy services — with the understanding that Bahria Town’s financial backing would sustain operations during its early expansion phase.

However, as Malik Riaz faced mounting legal and financial challenges in Pakistan, including property seizures and auctions, support for the venture reportedly weakened.

Industry observers say the potential acquisition underscores a recurring question in Pakistan’s media-business crossover: Is capital alone enough to build a sustainable news platform — or does long-term editorial and financial strategy matter more?

For ARY Group, the acquisition would add a ready-made digital operation to its existing portfolio. But analysts expect restructuring and cost rationalisation, given ARY’s reputation as a tightly managed legacy broadcaster. Media insiders speculate that staff adjustments or layoffs could follow as part of operational consolidation.

The development has also reignited debate within media circles over high-profile anchors securing lucrative deals during launch phases, only to see platforms struggle once investor backing shifts.

If completed, the deal will represent one of the most notable media restructurings of the year — and a fresh reminder that building a housing block may be easier than building a profitable newsroom.