SiriusXM sheds fewer subscribers in the first quarter on content strength

April 30 (Reuters) - SiriusXM SIRI.O on Thursday reported a smaller-than-expected fall in subscribers directly paying for its satellite radio service in the first quarter, aided by strong demand for content offerings including podcasts, live performances and exclusive shows.

The company has been leaning on exclusive and curated content to boost engagement, rolling out artist-led channels such as those from John Summit, pop-up channels featuring BTS, Luke Combs and Robyn, and distinctive programming including John Mayer's "Grateful Dead Listening Party."

• Self-pay subscribers decreased by about 111,000 in the first quarter, compared with an expected decrease of 260,463, according to analysts polled by Visible Alpha

• Podcasting was an area of steady performance, with revenue growing 37% in the quarter.

• The company announced a partnership with YouTube last week, under which it will serve as the exclusive U.S. advertising representative for YouTube's audio inventory.

• Total revenue for the quarter ended March 31 came in at $2.09 billion, compared with estimates of $2.07 billion, according to data compiled by LSEG.

• IHeartMedia IHRT.O is reportedly in early talks about a potential merger with SiriusXM, in a deal that could reshape the country's audio entertainment industry.