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  • Banijay group maps blockbuster growth plan at capital markets day 2025

    Banijay group maps blockbuster growth plan at capital markets day 2025

    MUMBAI: Banijay group, the global powerhouse in entertainment, unveiled its ambitious growth roadmap at its capital markets day on 16 May 2025, pledging to supercharge its content empire and maintain its industry dominance. With a target of €7 billion in revenue and over €1.2 billion in adjusted EBITDA by 2028, the company laid out a strategy to stay on top in a fast-evolving entertainment landscape.

    Under the leadership of founder &  chairman Stéphane Courbit, Banijay committed to leveraging three powerful growth levers: accelerating organic growth, developing synergies across its diverse portfolio, and capitalising on industry consolidation.

    “Entertainment is the common DNA that connects all our activities. Our purpose remains the same: to produce and deliver emotional experiences at scale,” Courbit declared.

    Banijay group CEO François Riahi highlighted the company’s readiness to capture new growth avenues, driven by a clear strategic focus on digital platforms, premium content, sports, and immersive experiences. “We are raising our mid-term guidance, backed by a strong platform, iconic IP, and disciplined financial management,” he added.

    Banijay’s bold financial goals included:
    * Revenue of around €7 billion in 2028.
    * Adjusted EBITDA of over €1.2 billion in 2028.
    * Organic revenue growth of mid-to-high single digits for content production and low-to-mid teens for online sports betting and gaming.
    * Over 80 per cent adjusted free cash flow conversion.
    * A dividend payout of over 33 per cent of adjusted net income.
    * Target leverage of 2.0x in the medium term.

    The group also revealed plans to consolidate The Independents, increasing its stake from 14 per cent to 51 per cent in 2026. This move would add €1 billion in revenues by 2028 without impacting leverage, thanks to a primary equity raise of €300m to €400m.

    From blockbuster TV shows and digital content to live experiences and sports entertainment, Banijay’s ambitions are crystal clear – to remain the world’s go-to entertainment powerhouse.

  • Lightning International strikes with 14 Fast channels on myTV Super

    Lightning International strikes with 14 Fast channels on myTV Super

    MUMBAI:  Lightning International has unleashed a storm of entertainment on Hong Kong’s leading streaming service, myTV Super, with the launch of 14 brand-new free ad-supported streaming TV (Fast) channels. From action-packed blockbusters to toe-tapping tunes and jaw-dropping documentaries, the new channels promise a binge-worthy bonanza – all for free.

    The partnership marks myTV Super’s first-ever Fast channel collaboration, powered by Amagi Media Labs, and is set to transform the streaming landscape in Hong Kong. With the new channels, viewers can dive into a world of diverse content across smart TVs, myTV Super boxes, the myTV Super app, and the web.

    Lightning International  CEO James Ross couldn’t hide his excitement: “This collaboration with myTV Super is a game-changer. We’re bringing a treasure trove of content to viewers, catering to every taste and passion.”

    The channel lineup is an eye-pleasing buffet:

    * Action Hollywood Movies – Big hits, bigger thrills. 
    * Concerto – Classical music that strikes a chord.
    * Docsville – Documentaries that dare to inspire.
    * Globetrotter – Travel tales for the restless.
    * NewsWorld – Headlines and happenings, 24/7.
    * Now 70s, Now 80s, Now 90s00s – Nostalgia with a beat.
    * Now ROCK – Rock your world, one riff at a time.
    * Pet Club TV – Furry friends and adorable adventures.
    * Pulse – Wellness and wellbeing in a click.
    * Rialto Classic Movies (RCM) – Golden era films in all their glory.
    * TRACE Sport Stars – The world’s sporting elite in action.
    * TRACE Urban – Hip-hop and urban vibes that never stop.

    myTV Super, the OTT platform of Television Broadcasts Ltd (TVB), has cemented its position as a streaming powerhouse in Hong Kong, and this partnership with Lightning International adds a bolt of variety to its content arsenal.

    (Photo: James Ross, CEO of Lightning International with Rex Ching, President, myTV Super)

  • Zee rebrands as a content and tech powerhouse with ‘Yours Truly, Z’ promise

    Zee rebrands as a content and tech powerhouse with ‘Yours Truly, Z’ promise

    MUMBAI: Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (Zee) has unveiled a fresh, tech-infused brand universe as it repositions itself as a content and technology powerhouse. With a sharp focus on blending content with cutting-edge technology, the company has set its sights on enhanced performance, profitability, and global reach.

    Zee’s new brand identity, headlined by the promise ‘Yours Truly, Z,’ is a blend of bold design, vibrant colours, and heartfelt storytelling. It’s not just a facelift; it’s a complete transformation aimed at offering immersive experiences across entertainment platforms. The sleek, adaptive design reflects Zee’s legacy of three decades while embracing the aspirations of young India.

    Zee brandA letter from the brand to its stakeholders adds a personal touch: “I promise to make you laugh louder, dream bigger, and feel more deeply in every moment.” This emotional connect isn’t just fluff – it’s a strategic move to deepen consumer loyalty and brand affinity.

    The transformation was unveiled at the Zee Cine Awards 2025, where CEO Punit Goenka highlighted the brand’s mission to leverage technology for content creation, distribution, and monetisation. “Our new look is futuristic, dynamic, and agile, reflecting our team’s capability to capitalise on emerging opportunities,” Goenka said. “The brand promise of ‘Yours Truly, Z’ captures our consumer-centric approach and commitment to delivering meaningful experiences.”
    Zee Brand architectureUnderpinning this transformation are Zee’s core brand pillars: a purpose-driven existence, a vision to bring positive change through purposeful entertainment, and a mission to consistently deliver value to stakeholders. The company aims to enrich lives by creating extraordinary moments of optimism and togetherness.

    From its pioneering role in Indian media to becoming a global player, Zee has been an entertainment juggernaut. Now, with its fresh brand universe, it’s not just keeping up with the times – it’s setting the pace. 

    As the brand’s new identity rolls out on  8 June 2025, during the telecast of Zee Cine Awards, all eyes will be on how ‘Yours Truly, Z’ shapes the future of Indian entertainment.

  • Bhawna Agarwal takes the reins as managing director of HPE India

    Bhawna Agarwal takes the reins as managing director of HPE India

    MUMBAI: Bhawna Agarwal has stepped up as the senior vice-president & managing director of Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) India, marking a new era for the technology giant in one of its most critical markets. With over 25 years of experience in digital strategy, e-commerce, and leadership, Agarwal is set to lead HPE India’s charge into the future.

    The leadership baton has been passed from industry veteran Som Satsangi, who spent 27 years building HPE’s formidable presence in India. Expressing gratitude for the strong foundation laid by Satsangi, Agarwal highlighted her excitement about the opportunities ahead, promising to drive innovation and growth with her “committed and agile team.”

    Having joined HPE in 2019, Agarwal’s journey with the company has been a blend of high-impact initiatives and strategic growth. Her track record includes transforming digital platforms and scaling businesses.

    Agarwal’s digital prowess extends beyond HPE, with leadership roles at NDTV Gadgets360, where she led the platform to become India’s top digital tech destination, and stints with Yatra.com, Seventymm, and Times Internet. She is also a board advisor, mentor, and active player in India’s start-up ecosystem.

    Thanking Antonio Neri and Heiko Meyer for their trust, Agarwal reaffirmed her commitment to delivering exceptional value to customers and partners. As she takes charge, all eyes are on HPE India’s next chapter—one that promises growth, transformation, and a dash of digital magic.

  • Game changers take the stage at Stairs National Games and Ebel Awards

    Game changers take the stage at Stairs National Games and Ebel Awards

    MUMBAI: It’s not just medals that will be won, minds, movements and milestones are in the making. On Monday, 19 May, New Delhi’s Talkatora Indoor Stadium will host a sports spectacle with a purpose as the Stairs National Games 2025 and Ebel Awards 2025 roll out the red carpet for grassroots glory and transformative youth leadership.

    Organised by the Stairs Foundation (Society for Transformation, Inclusion, and Recognition through Sports), the event is no ordinary gathering. It’s a dynamic convergence of young athletes, changemakers, policymakers, and performers from across the country and beyond, coming together to prove that sport is more than just play, it’s a powerful language for unity and impact.

    With participation from over 20 states, the Stairs National Games champions inclusivity by levelling the playing field where talent, not privilege, determines victory. At the same time, the Stairs National Sports Excellence Awards will spotlight those who’ve quietly coached, mentored, and built India’s sports ecosystem from the ground up.

    The evening will crescendo with the Ebel (Ek Bharat Ek Lakshya) Awards 2025, recognising individuals and institutions creating ripples in education, wellness, inclusion, and innovation. The awards have become one of India’s most aspirational honours in youth transformation saluting local heroes and global allies redefining empowerment from the grassroots.

    Chief guest Pankaj Kumar Singh, Minister for Health, Family Welfare, Transport, and IT, will headline the proceedings, joined by H.E. Patrick John Rata, High Commissioner of New Zealand to India, and several dignitaries from governance, diplomacy, and public service. Special guests also include Sheeshpal Rajput, Vikram K. Porwal (IPS), and Ajit Sharan, bringing a blend of policy and purpose to the celebration.

    Taking centre stage alongside these stalwarts are Stairs Brand Ambassadors international boxer Gaurav Bidhuri, actor and youth advocate Amit Sadh, and para-athlete Rohtash Chaudhary, who embody the campaign’s core belief: that India’s future leaders will rise from its playgrounds.

    Stairs Foundation founder & President Siddhartha Upadhyay states, “We are building a scalable and sustainable model of youth empowerment. By combining sports, education, equity, and ethical leadership, we’re nurturing not just athletes but visionary citizens. The Stairs platform is about democratising opportunity, amplifying grassroots voices, and preparing India’s youth to lead, inspire, and transform. India’s future will rise from its playgrounds.”

    Expect more than applause, the event will feature taekwondo, yoga, jump rope acts, and a stirring audiovisual tribute to Stairs’ journey. With the Stairs platform aligned to the United Nations sustainable development goals, and partnerships spanning embassies, federations, and NGOs, the evening promises to be a launchpad for larger conversations and collaborations.

    And just like that, the whistle  will blow for a movement that’s raising much more than games. It’s raising a nation.

  • Sole to soul wins as McCann India walks away with One Show Honours

    Sole to soul wins as McCann India walks away with One Show Honours

    MUMBAI: When purpose meets powerful storytelling, awards follow and McCann Worldgroup India’s recent haul at the One Show Awards 2025 proves just that. The agency took home seven accolades, including a Silver, a Bronze and five Merits, for campaigns that turned everyday struggles into stories of strength.

    Leading the charge (and the applause) was ‘Fit My Feet’ for Buckaroo Footwear, a campaign that reimagined mobility for children born with clubfoot, a condition that affects tens of thousands across India annually. The initiative didn’t just earn a Silver in IP & Product Design and a Bronze in Health & Wellness, it also stepped up with four Merit awards.

    Designed as a simple but significant intervention, the campaign introduced affordable corrective footwear distributed through a hyperlocal network of over 4,500 cobblers, resulting in 228,000 plus pairs making their way to children who needed them most.

    Not far behind was another grassroots gem ‘Dabba Savings Account’ for ESAF Small Finance Bank. A clever rework of the humble steel kitchen container into a discreet piggy bank, the campaign helped promote financial literacy among rural women. The result? Over 120,000 new bank accounts opened without a single rupee spent on traditional media and a Merit Award in Direct Marketing to show for it.

    McCann Worldgroup Chairman and McCann Worldgroup India Asia Pacific and CEO & CCO Prasoon Joshi said, “It’s deeply fulfilling to work on ideas grounded in empathy and everyday realities that resonate on a global stage. These campaigns are a reminder that creativity, when driven by purpose, can become a genuine force for change whether it’s improving mobility for those with clubfoot or enabling rural women through financial empowerment. I’m grateful to the jury for this recognition, which I accept on behalf of my entire team committed to making ideas matter.”

    With trophies in hand and purpose in their stride, McCann Worldgroup India has shown that in advertising, walking the talk sometimes begins with simply helping someone walk.

  • Shaadi Smart Not Shaadi Spent as Citykart Plays the Budget Band

    Shaadi Smart Not Shaadi Spent as Citykart Plays the Budget Band

    MUMBAI: Why should baraatis have all the fun? This wedding season, Citykart is bringing the dhol and discounts straight to the streets with its “Band Baja Budget” campaign, a festive fusion of joy and judicious spending designed for families juggling big dreams and tight wallets.

    Setting the tone quite literally, bus shelters across UP and Bihar have been transformed into mini wedding mandaps complete with traditional trimmings and all the shaadi sparkle. It’s a head-turning twist that’s got passersby stopping for selfies and shoppers stepping into stores with the wedding vibe already in full swing.

    At its heart, the campaign hits a real cultural chord. Weddings in India are grand but gruelling for the budget, especially for middle-income families. Citykart’s offers including 40 per cent off on sarees, guaranteed cashback on every purchase, and smart gifting combos like trolley bags, dinner sets, and dry irons strike the perfect balance between celebration and savings.

    “We understand the emotional and financial weight weddings carry,” said Citykart founder, Sudhanshu Agarwal. “This campaign says you don’t have to sacrifice joy for affordability. At Citykart, both walk hand in hand or should we say, down the aisle?”

    Inside stores, the mandap motif continues with festive window displays and curated clusters of wedding-ready essentials, giving shoppers a sense of occasion without the typical spending stress. Meanwhile, digital platforms are amplifying the message to ensure the campaign reaches hearts and homes across the region.

    With a stronghold in tier 2 and 3 cities and a reputation for stylish, pocket-friendly fashion, Citykart has always championed value. Now, with Band Baja Budget, it’s turning that value into a veritable wedding vow promising that no celebration should come at the cost of compromise.

    So whether you’re dressing for the sangeet or gifting for the big day, Citykart’s got your shaadi shopping covered mandap to mehendi, and every memory in between.

  • Charter & Cox to merge to create largest cable TV & broadband provider in the US

    Charter & Cox to merge to create largest cable TV & broadband provider in the US

    MUMBAI: In a mega-merger straight out of a business blockbuster, Charter Communications and Cox Communications have inked a definitive agreement to combine their businesses, creating an industry giant in mobile, broadband, and video entertainment. As part of the agreement,  Charter Communications will buy the privately held rival Cox for $21.9 billion.

    The deal values Cox Communications at a cool $34.5 billion, calculated using Charter’s 2025 estimated adjusted EBITDA multiple.

    Under this arrangement, Charter will snap up Cox’s commercial fibre, managed IT, and cloud businesses, while Cox’s residential cable will be folded into Charter Holdings, a subsidiary of Charter. The merger, which still needs regulatory and shareholder approval, will see Cox Enterprises pocket $4 billion in cash, $6 billion in convertible preferred units, and 33.6 million common units in Charter’s partnership.

    The merger will  create the largest US cable TV and broadband provider with around 38 million subscribers, surpassing market leader Comcast. Industry observers may recollect that Charter had last year agreed to acquire cable TV billionaire John Malone’s Liberty Broadband, which will now have an indirect interest in Cox, following the merger’s clearance.

    The Cox family, which has been in the cable business since 1962, is handing over the reins to Charter but keeping a significant seat at the table. Cox Enterprises, will own approximately 23 per cent of the combined entity and its CEO Alex Taylor will become chairman of Charter’s board, while Chris Winfrey  will continue as president & CEO of the combined company.

    “We’re honored that the Cox family has entrusted us with its impressive legacy and are excited by the opportunity to benefit from the terrific operating history and community leadership of Cox,” said Winfrey. “Cox and Charter have been innovators in connectivity and entertainment services – with decades of work and hundreds of billions of dollars invested to build, upgrade, and expand our complementary regional networks to provide high-quality internet, video, voice and mobile services. This combination will augment our ability to innovate and provide high-quality, competitively priced products, delivered with outstanding customer service, to millions of homes and businesses. We will continue to deliver high-value products that save American families money, and we’ll onshore jobs from overseas to create new, good-paying careers for US employees that come with great benefits, career training and advancement, and retirement and ownership opportunities.” 

    “Our family has always believed that investing for the long-term and staying committed to the best interests of our customers, employees and communities is the best recipe for success,” said Taylor. “In Charter, we’ve found the right partner at the right time and in the right position to take this commitment to a higher level than ever before, delivering an incredible outcome for our customers, employees, suppliers and the local communities we serve.”

    In a patriotic move, the combined company is pledging to bring customer service jobs back to the US, with all employees earning a starting wage of at least $20 per hour, alongside industry-leading benefits. Cox customers will also be treated to Charter’s famed 100 per cent US-based customer support, fast technician dispatches, and transparent pricing—no more surprise fees.

    The consumer-facing brand across Cox’s territories will become Spectrum, while the combined company will eventually rebrand as Cox Communications, maintaining its headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut, and a significant presence in Atlanta, Georgia.

    Spectrum customers can expect access to advanced wifi, Spectrum Mobile with mobile speed boost, and the Spectrum TV app, all under a simplified pricing model. For business customers, Charter’s robust portfolio of business telecom services, including Segra and RapidScale, will become part of the combined offering.
    The merger isn’t just about size—it’s about smarts. With more network muscle, the new entity will ramp up investments in mobile, video, and AI tools while taking the fight to big tech in advertising and content distribution.

    The deal is expected to generate $500 million in annual cost savings within three years, thanks to streamlined operations and better buying power. But it’s not just about the bottom line—Charter will establish a $50 million foundation to support community leadership in Cox’s territories and launch an employee relief fund to help staff in times of crisis.

    The combined company will carry Cox’s $12 billion in debt but expects higher cash flow and better investment returns over time, with a new leverage target of 3.5x to 4.0x. Industry observers may recollect that Charter had last year agreed to acquire cable TV billionaire John Malone’s Liberty Broadband, which will now have an indirect interest in Cox, following the merger. 

    It’s a blockbuster telecom tale where two rivals become allies, customers win, and big tech finally faces a serious challenger.

  • Mumbai’s new reel estate: BMC to allow temporary film sets under DCPR 2034

    Mumbai’s new reel estate: BMC to allow temporary film sets under DCPR 2034

    Mumbai: In a cinematic twist, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corp (BMC) has proposed a crucial amendment to its Development Control and Promotion Regulations (DCPR) 2034, officially permitting the construction of temporary sets for films, TV serials, and advertisements. The move aims to turn Mumbai’s open plots into a regulated playground for the entertainment industry, ensuring compliance while boosting civic revenue.

    The amendment, initiated under Section 37 (1) of the Maharashtra Regional Town Planning (MRTP) Act, 1966, will introduce a fresh category under regulation 57, allowing temporary studios with prior approval from the BMC. Citizens have a month to share their views with the BMC’s chief engineer (development plan) or the deputy director of town planning.

    BMC’s latest move comes just weeks after the city hosted the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (Waves), positioning Mumbai as a media powerhouse. It also aligns with the state government’s plan to establish a massive creative economy hub in Malad.

    This decision traces back to a 2019 BMC circular that allowed temporary filming structures on open plots. But what started as a filmmaker’s delight turned into an environmental nightmare, with unauthorized setups mushrooming even in Coastal Regulation Zones (CRZ). A subsequent inquiry in 2022 saw the BMC demolish 11 illegal studios in Madh, Marve, and Erangal.

    The new amendment seeks to end this chaos by setting clear boundaries—temporary sets can now be constructed only with proper permissions, capped at six months at a time and a maximum of three years in total. “Permissions will also generate revenue for the BMC,” a civic official confirmed.

    The revised rules will also help the civic body track how many production houses are using the designated plots for shoots, ensuring accountability.

  • One Tap Wonder as TV9 Clicks with Google’s Global Spotlight

    One Tap Wonder as TV9 Clicks with Google’s Global Spotlight

    MUMBAI: When it comes to logging in, less really is more and TV9 Digital has proved just that. In a rare nod from Silicon Valley’s finest, Google has spotlighted the Indian news platform in a global case study for its swift, smart, and successful rollout of Google One Tap sign-in.

    The feather in TV9’s cap? Over 2 lakh user registrations in just 60 days. No passwords, no confusion, no drama just a single click and straight into the news. The result? Fewer drop-offs, happier users, and a treasure trove of first-party data.

    The case study from Google highlights how this friction-free feature supercharged TV9 Digital’s user acquisition and retention. It wasn’t just about the numbers, though. The richer data allowed for smarter personalisation think curated newsletters, targeted alerts, and reader experiences that feel like they were written just for you.

    Emphasising that innovation TV9 Network’s DNA chief growth officer Raktim Das said, “Being recognized by Google in a global case study is a proud moment for us. It underscores our commitment to combining journalism with cutting-edge technology to deliver a superior experience to our digital audience.”

    Das added: “Google’s partnership on Google One Tap has been instrumental in our user acquisition strategy, delivering a seamless sign-up experience. The resulting 200,000 registrations in 60 days demonstrate the immense potential of this collaboration. We see this as a significant opportunity to further leverage this partnership for enhanced audience engagement and first-party data growth.”

    March was already a milestone month for TV9, with 138 million unique visitors recorded on ComScore. But this Google case study has turned a strong run into a standout moment, positioning the brand not just as a news destination, but as a tech-forward leader in digital publishing.

    As platforms everywhere scramble to future-proof their audience strategies, TV9’s “One Tap” masterstroke shows that when it comes to engagement convenience really is king. Or in this case, news you can trust with a single click.