Australian pop icon and prolific songwriter Sia has officially sold a 50% stake in her music catalog to Swedish entertainment and investment firm Pophouse Entertainment in a deal valued at $180 million.
The landmark transaction implies a total catalog valuation approaching $360 million, solidifying it as one of the largest rights deals of the year. According to legal filings, the agreement pays $165 million directly to the singer, with $15 million placed in escrow pending resolution of an ongoing financial dispute with her estranged husband, Dan Bernad.
Dual Scope: Masters, Publishing, and A-List Co-Writes
Unlike traditional acquisitions that target only publishing or recording income, the agreement spans a comprehensive 50/50 split across both master recording rights and music publishing holdings:
- Solo Master & Publishing Catalogs: The acquisition covers Sia’s vast solo discography as a lead recording artist, including massive global hits such as "Chandelier" (her breakthrough US Top 10 single), "Cheap Thrills", and "Elastic Heart".
- High-Yield Third-Party Songwriting Assets: The publishing side of the portfolio incorporates Sia’s extensive catalog of chart-topping compositions penned for other major pop acts. Key assets include Rihanna’s multi-platinum "Diamonds", David Guetta’s "Titanium" (which Sia both co-wrote and sang), and tracks recorded by Beyoncé, Katy Perry, and Eminem.
- High-Performing Streaming Yield: Driven by nine tracks that each exceed one billion streams on Spotify alone, the catalogue is estimated to generate roughly $18 million in recurring annual publishing and performance royalties.
Co-Ownership Model and Immersive Brand Building
The transaction highlights a growing preference among contemporary hitmakers for strategic co-ownership models over 100% catalog liquidations. By retaining a 50% stake, Sia secures immediate generational capital while keeping an active interest in future revenue streams.
For Pophouse—the firm founded by ABBA’s Björn Ulvaeus that holds major stakes in the catalogs of Avicii, Swedish House Mafia, KISS, and Cyndi Lauper—the deal fits into its broader portfolio strategy. Rather than functioning solely as a passive royalty collector, Pophouse plans to actively manage the IP alongside Sia through future brand extension initiatives, sync placements, and avatar-driven immersive projects.
"Soon to come, a very special collaboration with Pophouse," Sia shared regarding the milestone. "I look forward to sharing new songs, new ideas, and my wealth with those who need it. Today is truly a professional milestone."
The partnership is expected to kick off development on new digital experiences and brand initiatives leveraging Sia's iconic visual imagery in the coming months.
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