Media
Mahesh Shetty elevated to Head of Entertainment Revenue at JioStar
JioStar has appointed Mahesh Shetty as the new Head of Revenue, Entertainment, succeeding Ajit Varghese. Shetty, previously leading Linear Channels Sales, brings nearly three decades of experience from media, entertainment, and FMCG sectors, including roles at Radio Mirchi and PepsiCo. He will now oversee key sales functions, with several executives reporting to him.
Entertainment Network India Ltd Q1 revenue up 3% as digital, events drive growth
Entertainment Network India Ltd witnessed a 3% year-on-year increase in consolidated revenue, reaching ₹117 crore for the quarter ending June 30. Domestic revenue grew by 3.2%, driven by events, solutions, and digital segments. The digital business, including Gaana, showed significant growth, contributing 40.7% of core radio advertising revenue, while the company's cash reserves stand at ₹349 crore.
Over 1.6 lakh self-declaration certificates filed for food and health ads: I&B
Since June 2024, over 1.62 lakh self-declaration certificates have been filed by advertisers on the Broadcast Seva and Press Council of India portals. This initiative, mandated by the Supreme Court, aims to curb misleading advertisements, particularly in the food and health sectors.
Falling ad spends, fewer subscribers spell trouble for TV
India's television broadcasting sector is grappling with challenges as advertising and subscription revenues face pressure. FMCG companies, major TV advertisers, are reducing ad spends, impacting broadcasters. The pay-TV base is declining post-IPL, further complicating revenue streams. While some companies show profit growth, the overall market navigates a complex landscape of shifting consumer behavior and digital competition.
Aamir Khan's film goes pay-per-view on YouTube, gives OTT giants a miss
Aamir Khan Productions is experimenting with a pay-per-view release of 'Sitaare Zameen Par' on YouTube, bypassing traditional streaming platforms. This marks a significant shift, as Khan aims to tap into the underutilized pay-per-view market in India. Industry experts are closely watching the film's performance and the potential impact on future distribution models, especially for A-list stars.
ALTT, ULLU, MoodX, Desiflix among 25 OTT apps banned for obscene, vulgar content
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has blocked 25 OTT platforms for allegedly disseminating obscene, vulgar, and pornographic content, violating Indian laws. This action, taken after warnings and consultations with various government bodies and civil society, follows repeated instances of non-compliance with regulations, including some platforms circumventing previous blocking orders.
DTH signals fade, but FM radio turns up the volume for MIB
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) experienced a decline in revenue from DTH services in FY25 due to a shrinking user base, while FM radio revenue increased. DTH earnings fell nearly 25% over two years, reflecting a shift to OTT platforms. FM radio's growth is attributed to its appeal in regional markets and its role in government outreach.
Sun TV board approves £100.5 million acquisition of The Hundred's Northern Superchargers
Sun TV Network's board has approved acquiring Northern Superchargers. This franchise participates in The Hundred cricket league. The deal marks Sun TV's entry into the UK sports market. Northern Superchargers will become a wholly owned subsidiary. The company aims to enhance its global sports presence. Other Indian investors are also investing in The Hundred franchises.
Tata Play Binge expands OTT offerings with Prasar Bharati's WAVES platform
Tata Play Binge adds WAVES, Prasar Bharati's OTT platform. This brings over 20,000 hours of content in 12 languages. Viewers can access iconic shows and live events. The partnership strengthens Tata Play Binge as a comprehensive OTT aggregator. It offers diverse programming, blending legacy content with modern streaming. This move aims to connect and entertain communities across India.
WPP appoints Baiju Shah as Global CEO of AKQA
WPP has appointed Baiju Shah, formerly Global Chief Strategy Officer at Accenture Song, as the new Global CEO of AKQA. This move aligns with WPP's strategy to integrate creativity with AI and technology. Shah's expertise will guide AKQA in leveraging AI and cultural shifts to drive growth and innovation, building on AKQA's recent Cannes Lions Grand Prix win.
Must Watch
OTT platforms come under scrutiny as dark patterns erode consumer trust
Indian consumers are increasingly concerned about deceptive design practices, or dark patterns, on OTT platforms, leading to unexpected charges and subscription issues. Guidelines have been introduced to combat these practices, but some platforms are slow to comply. Regulators are focusing on transparency and consumer rights in the growing streaming market, aiming to hold platforms accountable for misleading tactics.
Shareholders block Zee promoters' stake hike bid
Zee Entertainment's proposal to issue convertible warrants to promoter group entities failed to secure shareholder approval at an EGM, highlighting concerns over corporate governance. While 60% voted in favor, it fell short of the required 75%. The plan aimed to raise ₹2,237.44 crore, increasing the promoter stake to 18.39%, but faced opposition from proxy advisory firms and shareholders.
Gamezop enters Middle East with $4 million investment, sets up Bahrain HQ
Gamezop, an Indian casual gaming firm, is growing its business. The company is investing $4 million in the Middle East. It is setting up a regional headquarters in Bahrain. This expansion aims to onboard 1,000 apps. Gamezop expects to generate $5–6 million in revenue. The company will focus on the MENA region's growing gaming market.
MIB proposes overhaul of TV rating guidelines to attract more players
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is set to overhaul television rating agency norms, proposing the removal of restrictions on board members' ties to media businesses and scrapping cross-holding limits. These amendments aim to broaden industry participation and encourage new entrants into the TV ratings space, while also tightening conflict-of-interest rules to ensure operational independence and legal compliance.
New Script for Media: Warner Bros Discovery split marks end of bundling era
Warner Bros Discovery's split into two entities, following similar moves by Comcast and Lionsgate, highlights a shift away from traditional media conglomerates. The industry is prioritizing streaming, separating high-growth digital units from slower legacy businesses to attract investors and compete with Netflix.
Reliance-owned RISE Worldwide launches eSports JV with Denmark’s BLAST
Reliance Industries' RISE Worldwide partners with Denmark's BLAST ApS. They are creating Jio BLAST eSports. This joint venture will tap into India's growing eSports market. The partnership aims to operate gaming events. It will bring BLAST's global events to India. Events will be hosted on the JioGames platform. The JV will offer tournament management and marketing services.
