This week, the U.S. Congress introduced a bill for credit card legislation, and streaming brands face the reality of inflation. The soon-to-be-launched Paramount+ channel on Roku has sports fans excited, and Xbox’s testing tier has the same effect on gamers. Lastly, Japanese drivers could enjoy a new Nissan electric car subscription. 

U.S. Congress considers credit card legislation

Credit card rates are once again under the congressional microscope. U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin has introduced a bill that would let merchants choose who processes card transactions, helping retailers save $11 billion yearly. More on Retail Brew. 

The subscription landscape in economic uncertainties

Inflation has U.S. households reevaluating subscriptions, which is somewhat contradictory for streaming media and digital publishing brands. This week, Paramount Global, Warner Bros Discovery, and the New York Times shared their Q2 earnings: 

  • Paramount Global gained 3.7 million subscribers for Paramount+, yet its other OTT services dropped 2.4 million subscriptions overall.

  • While WBD continues to scale its subscription base to 92.1 million globally, it reported a 300,000 drop in streaming subscribers across the U.S. and Canada.

  • The New York Times added 180,000 net digital-only subscribers but generated less digital advertising revenue.

How can DTC brands overcome the impact of competition, the rising cost of living, and subscription fatigue challenges? Join our conversation with Subscription Insider next August 10 to discover proven retention tactics.

Paramount+ joins Roku, a live sports fantasy

Paramount+ brings all its films, TV shows, and sports to The Roku Channel later in August. Including the NFL and UEFA Champions League, this is the first time live sports content will be available for Roku’s streamers. Users can signup for Essential and Premium plans or enjoy a free seven-day trial. Read more on TechCrunch. 

Nissan to push electric vehicle subscription

The flow of electric car batteries with precious metals is a national security challenge, so the car manufacturer plans to join subscription commerce. Aiming to keep used electric vehicles cars in Japan and reuse lithium batteries, drivers can sign up for long-term contracts to rent a Nissan Leaf. Learn more on Financial Times. 

The new Xbox Game Pass offer

Microsoft is soft launching a new subscription tier for Colombian and Irish Xbox Insiders – allowing up to four players to share Game Pass Ultimate benefits. While there haven’t been any price announcements, it’s assumed to be about $25 monthly. Read more on ComicBook.

From the Recurly blog: