The European Film Market (EFM) 2026 shows: The global film industry has reached a new, stable level - volumes and deals have declined somewhat, but producers and investors are acting in a more targeted and strategic manner.

One clear trend is the Shift from individual project financing to portfolio strategies. Investors want to spread risks and are increasingly retaining the rights to content in order to benefit from brands and franchises in the long term. This applies not only to cinema films, but also to series and cross-platform content.

International buyers are actively searching for promising projects, while US buyers are acting more cautiously and focussing more on Data-based decision-making set. Anyone who wants to sell their content successfully must therefore clearly demonstrate how a project works commercially.

Artificial intelligence is also playing an increasingly important role. Although it does not replace creative work, it can significantly speed up processes such as research, market analyses or risk assessment.

In terms of content, producers are increasingly focussing on "liquid IP" - In other words, flexible concepts that work on multiple platforms and markets. This makes it easier to expand and monetise films, series or brands.

Overall, the EFM 2026 is signalling: If you want to be successful in the current film business, you need Clear strategies, discipline in selecting projects and a good understanding of capital, technology and international markets.