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- WPP replaces GroupM with AI-powered WPP Mediaon May 28, 2025
WPP has launched WPP Media, replacing GroupM, to provide integrated, AI-driven solutions for marketers. Managing over $60 billion in media investment, WPP Media aims to unify media, data, and production strategies through WPP Open, its AI-enabled marketing system. This strategic shift focuses on personalization at scale and future-focused learning to equip employees for the AI era.
- JioHotstar claims majority of India’s top OTT titles in March: Nielsenon May 28, 2025
JioHotstar dominated India's OTT landscape in March 2025, capturing a significant share of viewership, according to Nielsen. Netflix secured the second position, while other platforms had a smaller presence. The report highlights viewer preferences across films, original series, and non-original shows, with JioHotstar leading in films and MX Player topping the original series category.
- Hollywood films breathe fresh life into Indian box officeon May 28, 2025
Hollywood has revitalized the Indian box office after a slow period, with films like Mission Impossible, Final Destination, and Lilo & Stitch collectively earning Rs 124.79 crore. While the success of these blockbusters is being attributed to loyal fan bases, compelling scripts, and the appeal of final chapters; Bollywood's performance continues to remain disappointing.
- Intelsat gets govt nod for direct satellite broadcast services in Indiaon May 27, 2025
Intelsat, a US-based satellite operator, has secured Indian government approval to directly provide satellite coverage to domestic media organizations. This authorization from IN-SPACe allows Intelsat to operate four geostationary satellites, enhancing content delivery within India and internationally. The move has already led to new business from three major Indian media companies, expanding Intelsat's presence in the region.
- TDSAT restrains Sony from disconnecting signals to Tata Play; directs interim payment of Rs 40 croreon May 27, 2025
TDSAT has blocked SPNI from disconnecting Tata Play, ordering the DTH operator to pay Rs 40 crore as part payment against SPNI's claimed dues of Rs 128 crore. The tribunal urged both parties to reconcile their disputes, addressing commercial disagreements over subscription renewal amid declining viewership and financial losses reported by Tata Play.
- TDSAT stays Sony's disconnection notice to Tata Play, directs service provider to make interim payment of Rs 40 croreon May 27, 2025
Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal intervened in the Tata Play and Sony Pictures Networks India case. Tribunal directed Sony not to disconnect Tata Play services. Tata Play has been instructed to pay Rupees 40 crore to Sony as part payment. This payment addresses Sony's claimed dues of Rupees 128 crore.
- Sony sub-licenses India-England series digital rights to JioHotstaron May 26, 2025
JioStar and Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) have partnered to broadcast India's 2025-26 cricket tours of England. JioStar secures exclusive digital streaming rights for JioHotstar, while SPNI retains TV rights via Sony Entertainment Television. This collaboration aims to broaden cricket coverage accessibility, reflecting a growing trend of shared distribution strategies in sports broadcasting.
- Cricket gets a double screen deal: JioHotstar, Sony team up to deliver India's 2025-2026 England tourson May 26, 2025
Great news for cricket lovers. JioStar and Sony will broadcast India's England tours. The partnership covers both digital and television platforms. JioStar will stream matches on JioHotstar. Sony will broadcast on Sony Sports Network. The highlight is the five-match Test series in June 2025. A white-ball tour in 2026 is also included.
- Music labels seek new track as streaming hits paywallon May 25, 2025
Indian music labels are experiencing slower revenue growth due to a structural shift in the audio streaming ecosystem. Several platforms have shut down or moved to subscription models, impacting ad-supported revenue. While this transition causes short-term disruptions, industry executives view the shift towards paid subscriptions as a positive sign for long-term, sustainable growth, mirroring global trends.
- Non-film income, vulnerable producers and the challenges in making a good Hindi filmon May 25, 2025
The Hindi film industry faces a crisis as actors' high non-film income leads to complacency and a lack of creative collaboration. Producers struggle to fund films due to actors' reluctance to reduce fees, impacting film quality. Industry observers suggest actors should align their financial interests with film success, like Shahrukh Khan, to ensure commitment and improve the industry's overall health.
- What we watch shapes how and where we travel: How set-jetting turns watchlists into bucket listson May 25, 2025
Bollywood's influence on Indian travel is evolving, with 'set-jetting' now a major trend, especially among younger generations. Fueled by streaming platforms, destinations featured in shows like 'The White Lotus' and 'Emily in Paris' are seeing a surge in bookings.
- SC stays Rs 5,712-crore GST notice for Paytm-owned First Gameson May 24, 2025
The Supreme Court has put a hold on a Rs 5,712-crore GST notice issued to First Games, a real money gaming platform owned by One97 Communications. This decision follows a writ petition filed by First Games challenging the notice.
- Tata Play powers launch of Philippines' OTT aggregator app Cignal Superon May 23, 2025
Cignal Super, powered by Tata Play Binge, has officially launched in the Philippines, integrating eight entertainment platforms under one subscription. This collaboration provides Filipino viewers with seamless access to content from MAX, VIU, and others through a unified interface. Tata Play Binge's PaaS model enables Cignal to revolutionize entertainment experiences, marking a significant step in Cignal's evolution.
- Tata Play net loss surges 44% to Rs 510 crore in FY25on May 23, 2025
Tata Play's net loss widened to Rs 510 crore in 2024-25, accompanied by a revenue decline due to a shrinking subscriber base facing competition from DD Free Dish and OTT platforms. Merger talks with Bharti Airtel collapsed, while the company invests in broadband and OTT services to offset DTH losses.
- Broadcasters have to pay both service, luxury taxes: Supreme Courton May 22, 2025
The Supreme Court affirmed that broadcasters are responsible for paying both service tax and entertainment tax on broadcasting activities. This ruling clarifies that both Parliament and state legislatures possess the authority to impose these taxes. The court emphasised that these taxes represent distinct aspects of the same activity, enabling different legislatures to levy taxes under separate entries in different lists.
- Meet The Drapers Season 7: The Future of Entrepreneurship Unfolds in Silicon Valleyon May 22, 2025
- Banijay in strategic partnership with Nodwin to co-develop IPs, formatson May 22, 2025
Banijay Asia and Nodwin Gaming have partnered to expand their presence in India's gaming and youth entertainment sector. The collaboration will involve Banijay Asia producing Nodwin Gaming's Playground, a gaming reality show.
- Roland Garros 2025 lands on FanCode and Sony LIV with every match, every stat of French Openon May 22, 2025
French Open: FanCode and Sony LIV are partnering to broadcast Roland Garros 2025 in India, offering comprehensive coverage of every match. This collaboration marks FanCode's entry into tennis, providing Indian audiences with flexible viewing options, including pay-per-view for individual matches or the entire tournament.
- Insider job? Pirated versions of Hindi films surface days before box office releaseon May 21, 2025
Several high-profile Hindi films, including Sikandar and Raid 2, have been leaked online before their official release, severely impacting their box office performance. This emerging trend of pre-release piracy, suspected to involve insiders, undermines theatrical potential and digital deals.
- Tata Play drops Sony channels from packson May 21, 2025
Tata Play and Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) are facing renewed tensions as Tata Play removes SPNI channels from its packs due to SPNI's demand for a 10-15% subscription fee increase. Tata Play resists this increase amid subscriber churn and stagnant ARPU, offering affected customers price reductions and à la carte options.
- Mark Rober, Mayo Japan and Brandon B on the Evolution of Contenton May 20, 2025
- From Raid 2 to Jaat: Pirates strike films just before the premiereon May 20, 2025
Hindi films like Sikandar and Raid 2 are increasingly leaked online before release, severely impacting box office performance. Insiders are suspected, with post-production, content delivery, and exhibition companies identified as potential sources. Piracy, fueled by illegal streaming, mobile apps, and social media, caused significant losses to the film industry in 2023, necessitating multi-layered anti-piracy strategies.
- Operation Sindoor boosts TV news viewership to 507 million in week 18on May 19, 2025
Indian television news viewership surged between May 3rd and 9th. This rise coincided with Operation Sindoor. 507 million viewers tuned in, marking the highest weekly total since 2022. News viewership accounted for 16% of all television viewing. Hindi news channels recorded 254 GRPs. Average viewing time increased to 60 minutes.
- Broadcasters look to tune into a brighter FY26 after static yearon May 18, 2025
Broadcasters anticipate a recovery in FY26, driven by easing churn, new pay-TV subscribers, and industry consolidation. The resurgence of FTA channels on DD Free Dish is expected to boost advertising revenue, particularly in rural areas. While linear TV shows signs of strength, advertising revenue remains under pressure due to macroeconomic factors, posing a challenge for the industry.
- These amazing films are not screening at a cinema in Cannes— they’re in taxis, VR games, and shock simulatorson May 17, 2025
Cannes Film Festival expands beyond movies. It explores immersive storytelling. Technology like AI and VR creates new experiences. 'tAxI' turns a cab into a confessional. 'Lili' adapts Macbeth as a game set in Iran. 'In the Current of Being' shares a conversion therapy survivor's story. These installations blur reality and art. They offer new perspectives.
- Zee Entertainment rebrands as content and technology-focused companyon May 17, 2025
ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited is transitioning into a content and technology-driven company, aiming for high-quality content and immersive experiences. As part of its growth strategy, ZEE is improving performance by integrating technology across content creation and distribution.
- Sapphire Media completes acquisition of Big FM 92.7on May 17, 2025
Sapphire Media Limited has successfully acquired the debt-ridden Reliance Broadcast Network, owner of Big FM 92.7, through the insolvency process. The acquisition, approved by NCLT and NCLAT, includes all statutory approvals from the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting.
- Sony looks to dial up music playon May 16, 2025
Sony Group Corporation is strategically expanding its music business in high-potential markets like India and Latin America, aiming to bolster revenue streams and asset value. Entertainment now constitutes a significant 61% of Sony's consolidated sales. The company is exploring strategic investments in content, music catalogues, and growth areas such as anime, while also focusing on expanding its IP portfolio.
- Kuku to expand global footprint with audio, video OTT offeringson May 16, 2025
Kuku, an Indian storytelling platform, is poised for global expansion, targeting the US and Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, the Philippines, and South Korea. With a vast library of audio stories and microdramas, Kuku aims to connect with the Indian diaspora and tap into the growing interest in Indian content abroad.
- Content producers' reel Trouble: Unsold scripts pile up as OTT, TV platforms tighten budgetson May 15, 2025
Content production houses are facing challenges due to a backlog of unreleased films and streaming content, resulting in significant unsold inventory. With broadcasters and OTT platforms reducing budgets, the industry is grappling with falling acquisition prices and consolidation. Several studios, including Applause Entertainment and Jio Studios, are affected by this slowdown, impacting both film and TV show productions.
- Ultimate Table Tennis signs JioStar as official broadcasteron May 14, 2025
Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) has partnered with JioStar for three years, becoming the league's official broadcast and streaming partner until 2027. JioStar will offer exclusive live, multilingual coverage on TV and digital platforms, aiming to broaden the sport's reach in India. UTT Season 6 will feature a blend of Indian and international players, with promotional programming starting May 12.
- Neela Mediatech plans Rs 100–150 crore fundraise for expansionon May 14, 2025
Neela Mediatech, backed by 'Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah' producer Asit Kumarr Modi, is planning a significant funding round of Rs 100–150 crore in the next 18–24 months to fuel expansion in gaming, animation, and edtech. Initially, the company is raising Rs 25–40 crore, supplemented by Modi's Rs 25 crore investment, while maintaining consistent production of the popular TV show.
- Prime Video to introduce limited ads in India from June 17on May 14, 2025
Amazon Prime Video in India will introduce limited advertisements starting June 17, 2025, while offering an ad-free option for ₹699 annually or ₹129 monthly. This shift aims to sustain content investment without impacting existing Prime benefits like free delivery, access to originals, and other Prime perks.
- Gameskraft announces strategic pause of Pocket52on May 14, 2025
Gameskraft, a leading Indian skill-based online gaming company, has announced a strategic pause in its Poker platform, Pocket52, to revamp its offering for sustainable growth. The platform will cease gameplay by May 30, 2025, and the 'Add Cash' feature will be disabled from May 22, 2025. Despite this, the app will remain accessible for withdrawals until July 2025.
- All quiet on Bollywood front: Producers postpone launches, delay promotions as border tensions dent confidenceon May 13, 2025
Geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan have significantly impacted the Hindi film industry, leading to delayed promotions, postponed releases, and potential losses of ₹150-200 crore. Uncertainty in theatrical performance and low producer confidence further contribute to the industry's woes, with some films opting for direct streaming releases. While some believe the impact will be minimal, others fear substantial financial repercussions.
- Indian Influencer Governing Council introduces Code of Standards to guide digital consumerson May 12, 2025
The Indian Influencer Governing Council (IIGC) has launched a Code of Standards for consumers to promote ethical engagement and informed decision-making in influencer marketing. This code addresses recognizing paid promotions, identifying manipulation tactics, understanding AI influencers, and avoiding scams. The IIGC plans awareness workshops to equip users with tools to identify red flags, fostering a safer, more transparent digital ecosystem.
- Zee plans to allocate 40% of free cash flows for 'core' biz projectson May 11, 2025
Zee Entertainment will invest 40% of its FCF in growth areas like regional content, music, and digital, and 25–30% of net profit as dividends. With FY25 profit at ₹679 crore, it targets stronger ZEE5 monetisation, D2C expansion, and M&A. FY26 goals include 17.5% TV viewership and 8–10% ad revenue growth, supported by a platform-agnostic content strategy.
- FanCode inks multi-year partnership with LaLigaon May 10, 2025
FanCode has secured a five-year deal to exclusively broadcast LaLiga EA Sports and LaLiga Hypermotion in India, starting from the 2025/26 season. The platform will also stream the remaining matches of the current season, including the highly anticipated ELCLÁSICO. This partnership aims to enhance fan engagement through comprehensive marketing campaigns and broaden LaLiga's reach to new audiences in India.
- Open to settling Star dispute in or out of court, says Zeeon May 9, 2025
Zee Entertainment Enterprises is exploring all options, including legal and out-of-court settlements, in its dispute with Reliance-Disney's JioStar over a terminated $1.5 billion cricket broadcast rights deal. The case, currently in the London Court of International Arbitration, is expected to be resolved by early next year. Zee maintains it doesn't foresee any significant negative impact from the proceedings.
- Zee Entertainment appoints ex-Netflix head of talent Rohit Suri as CHROon May 9, 2025
ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. has appointed Rohit Suri as its new Chief Human Resources Officer, effective May 12th, 2025. Suri will report to CEO Punit Goenka and will be responsible for strengthening the company's human capital and enhancing workforce capabilities. With over 25 years of experience, Suri's expertise will drive innovation and collaboration within ZEE.
- Firmly committed to prioritise national interest over all other considerations: JioStaron May 9, 2025
JioStar affirmed its commitment to national interest following the IPL's suspension due to escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan. The company pledged support to the government and armed forces, expressing intentions to collaborate with the BCCI to reschedule the tournament when appropriate. Industry experts anticipate minimal financial impact, emphasizing national unity and security as paramount.
- OTTs bet on microdramas to keep viewers glued to screenson May 8, 2025
Indian OTT platforms are changing their content. They are adding short microdramas for mobile users. Korean dramas are also becoming popular. Platforms like MX Player and Netflix are investing in these formats. This helps them keep viewers interested. The goal is to offer diverse entertainment. Platforms are adapting to changing audience tastes. They are also expanding their content libraries.
- ICC rights dispute: Star to file its reply against ZEEL's counterclaim by June 6on May 8, 2025
Zee Entertainment and Star India are embroiled in arbitration over a terminated sub-licensing agreement for ICC broadcast rights, with Star seeking $940 million in damages. Zee is contesting the claims, asserting no default and demanding a refund of $8 million.
- OTT platforms asked to remove Pakistan-origin content amid rising Indo-Pak tensionson May 8, 2025
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) has directed all OTT platforms and digital streaming services in India to immediately remove any media content originating from Pakistan. This advisory, issued on Thursday, is based on national security concerns. It encompasses web series, films, songs, podcasts, and all other streaming media, regardless of whether they are subscription-based or free.
- Tata Play Binge adds BBC Player to its OTT lineupon May 8, 2025
Tata Play Binge has partnered with BBC Player, bringing a wide array of British entertainment to Indian viewers. The collaboration enhances Tata Play Binge's content library with dramas, comedies, documentaries, and family-friendly shows. This addition strengthens Tata Play Binge's position as a leading platform for accessing multiple OTT services through a single subscription.
- Studio Blo appoints Shekhar Kapur as chairperson of board of AI ethicson May 7, 2025
Shekhar Kapur has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Board of AI Ethics & Creative Stewardship at Studio Blo. He will guide the studio's work at the intersection of AI, storytelling, and ethical content creation. Kapur's experience will help Studio Blo use AI responsibly and explore new approaches to filmmaking, potentially creating a new genre of AI films.
- Games of skill not gambling: Online gaming cos tell SC as they challenge Rs 1.12 lakh cr tax demandon May 7, 2025
Online gaming companies challenge the retrospective application of 28% GST, arguing that games of skill shouldn't be equated with gambling. They contest the tax levy on actionable claims, citing established legal precedents. The Supreme Court is hearing petitions against show-cause notices totaling ₹1.12 lakh crore issued to online gaming firms and casinos for alleged tax evasion.
- Walt Disney posts $103 million equity loss from India JV JioStar in Q2on May 7, 2025
Disney reported a $103 million equity loss in Q2 FY25 from its India JV, JioStar, with Reliance and Bodhi Tree Systems, contributing to a $300 million loss over six months due to accounting adjustments.
- Dish TV's Watcho launches platform for professional content creatorson May 7, 2025
Dish TV's Watcho introduces Fliqs, an OTT platform designed to empower professional content creators with tools for production, distribution, and monetization. Fliqs offers resources from concept development to diverse monetization models, enabling creators to retain content ownership and access transparent revenue sharing.
- JioStar launches influencer marketing platformon May 7, 2025
JioStar introduces JioStarverse, a data-driven platform designed to enhance influencer marketing with over 500 talents. It offers brands and agencies valuable insights, audience engagement data, and content performance analysis for targeted collaborations. The platform, powered by Qoruz, aims to provide smarter, scalable, and accountable influencer solutions through AI-driven insights and precise targeting.