ITV

Tag: MSM

  • Ad Cap: The Story continues.

    Ad Cap: The Story continues.

    MUMBAI: That both music channels and news channels had approached the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) against the 12 minute ad cap ruling by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is known.

    We had also reported that while the TDSAT hearing for music channels was scheduled for 21 October, that for news channels had been brought ahead to 31 October from 11 November.

    ut there’s one more twist in this tale for music channels too will now have to wait, much like their news counterparts, till 31 October to hear the TDSAT ruling on the matter.

    And it doesn’t end there. Industry sources reveal there is still confusion regarding the ad cap with nearly 50 per cent of television channels not implementing it, a few of which are following the earlier mandate of 16 and 20 minutes advertising, and still others ‘flouting the rule completely.’

    In fact, a source states the number of antacid pills being consumed by planners and buyers in agencies and by ad sales executives in TV channels has gone up thanks to the constant bickering between the two of them.

    Indeed, Sony Entertainment Television took everyone by surprise when the network unanimously decided not to follow the 10+2 mandate. Network CEO and Indian Broadcasting Foundation president Man Jit Singh had then said: “There should be status quo and there should be one law for all channels from all genres.”

    Till date, Sony stands by its CEO’s statement. “We will wait for the verdict from TDSAT, which comes out at the end of this month. We want status quo, no matter which way the verdict goes,” says MSM president network sales, licensing and telephony Rohit Gupta.

    We will continue with the 10+2 ad cap no matter what the TDSAT decides, says Ashish Sehgal

    On the other hand, representatives of Star Network and Viacom 18, which have been happily following the ad cap, maintain that their respective managements will take a call after the TDSAT ruling. “We will follow the law,” they say.

    Meanwhile, Zee has an entirely different take on the issue. “We will continue with the 10+2 ad cap no matter what the TDSAT decides,” says Zeel chief sales officer Ashish Sehgal.

    He justifies this stance saying: “Not that we are too happy with the scenario, but we need to bring in discipline. We are now going to the international norm of 12 minutes of advertising per hour. The network has already created its business plan around the new rule. A lot of planning has gone into this. We have increased our content and decreased the inventory and revising this again is not on our agenda.”

    On their part, advertisers are unhappy with the few networks that are implementing the mandate voluntarily and charging high rates. The big question facing them is what if TDSAT overrules TRAI’s diktat. “Will the channels revert to their earlier air time allocation as everyone else is doing or will they further hike the rates?” one of the advertisers questioned voicing his apprehensions on condition of anonymity.

    As far as the industry is concerned, an IBF member says: “Let’s say the TDSAT quashes the TRAI order. The ruling will be valid for everyone and every broadcaster (even those who are complying with the 12 minute ad cap) can go back to the old system. Or news and music channels lose the case in TDSAT. They can approach the Supreme Court for succour. Then let’s say the Supreme Court puts a stay on the ad cap, it will then be back to the way the world was operating before this ad cap announcement by TRAI.”

    News broadcasters say that if the verdict is in support of the ad cap, it will be implemented by end-November, if not earlier. “With Diwali round the corner, we are unsure how many days the court will take to come up with the verdict. Though if it is implemented, it is bad news for news channels,” says a member of NBA (News Broadcasters’ Association). Asked if the NBA will then appeal to the Supreme Court, the member dismisses it as a hypothetical question.

    Some advertisers believe that the new ad cap regime could take longer to roll out completely. Some expect it to spill over to mid-2014. Or it could be even later, if things go back and forth in court as they are wont to do.

    For the industry, however, what could be the best outcome is that Union I&B Minister Manish Tewari’s suggestion (that ad cap be implemented post completion of digitization in December 2014) is taken seriously and becomes a reality.

    But then there are the cynical observers. Says one of them: “Don’t get into the politics. Ministers say something and do something else. After all, where did the request for the ad cap come from…”

  • SETs new look embodies hope and happiness

    SETs new look embodies hope and happiness

    MUMBAI:  Sony Entertainment Television has revamped itself to reaffirm its creative vision and content innovation.

    With design and thought converging to reinforce the vibrant cultural and thematic identity of the channel, the result is a refreshed, modern and distinctive new channel. The new look and feel will officially be seen by viewers across the world from primetime on 11 October 2013 i.e today.

    MSM COO NP Singh said, “Sony Entertainment Television is a brand which has always challenged itself to define the category through fresh content, appealing characters and powerful storylines all packaged in a vibrant look. The journey so far has been a well chalked out one, in terms of how we have evolved the brand and as a brand we have always endeavoured to give our viewers what they want to watch, not just what we want them to watch.”

    SET’s new look embodies “hope and happiness” symbolising progressiveness and grace, while being traditional and cultured, thus reflecting the smart and contemporary confidence of SET and its viewers. Embracing red, blue and green as their signature colors, the new look gives a very lively and emotional touch to SET that is spontaneous, humane and warm.

     

    We have evolved the brand and as a brand we have always endeavoured to give our viewers what they want to watch, not just what we want them to watch says MSM COO N P Singh

    Renowned design studios, Ink Project based in Australia has helped create and advise the channel on its new look. Through its powerful shows, refreshing content and iconic characters, SET has successfully delivered its brand promise of providing a wholesome viewing experience for its consumers. This revamped look further propagates its brand philosophy of being fresh, innovative and progressive.

    SET senior EVP and business head Sneha Rajani said, “At Sony, we believe that this is the right time to infuse renewed vigor into the brand and reflect an identity which truly articulates our spirit. This revamped look is a celebration of hope and happiness thus reflecting the inherent ideology of the channel – being proud of our heritage yet living life to the fullest. We anticipate that our new look will only strengthen engagement & connect with our audiences.”

    We anticipate that our new look will only strengthen engagement and connect with our audiences believes SET senior EVP and business head Sneha Rajani

    In the new brand identity spot, SET stars, are weightlessly captured against a dynamic backdrop of color and sound. The sparkle frames encircle the human action creating a bold, fresh look for SET. Red, blue & green colored particles converge to one point and dynamically sparkle to create the SET brand logo.

    Since its launch in October 1995, SET has created significant marquee properties through an impressive lineup of programs ranging from the light-hearted to the supernatural, exploring various genres complemented by an explosive mix of glamorous events and Bollywood blockbusters. Known for its innovative concepts and exciting formats, Sony Entertainment Television reaches more than 95 million households in India.

  • Man Jit Singh re-elected IBF president

    Man Jit Singh re-elected IBF president

    MUMBAI: The 14 annual general meeting (AGM) of the IBF took place late yesterday in Mumbai, proceeding which multi screen media (MSM) CEO Man Jit Singh was re-elected as the president of the foundation for the year 2013-14.

    Discovery Networks Sr VP and GM south Asia Rahul Johri has been elevated as the new vice-president along with existing vice-presidents Zeel MD and CEO Punit Goenka as well as India TV chairman and editor in chief Rajat Sharma. Times Television Network (TTN) CEO Sunil Lulla is the new IBF treasurer.

    On his re-appointment Singh said “I am delighted that my industry colleagues continue to have faith in me to guide the IBF. The last year has been very eventful for our industry with digitisation phases I and II, considerable progress on a new measurement system under BARC, and a shift from TRPs to TVTs. Substantial challenges continue in the current year. We need to build on the success of content regulation, continue the process of digitisation and work collaboratively with the broader industry.”

     

  • Nachiket Pantvaidya goes back home to Sony

    Nachiket Pantvaidya goes back home to Sony

    MUMBAI: It’s like a homecoming of sorts for senior television professional Nachiket Pantvaidya. Pantvaidya has reportedly put in his papers at Star India and will be joining Mulitscreen Media (Sony Entertaintment). He will be taking charge as the business head of the MSM Motion Pictures, which is a division of MSM. A formal announcement is expected next week sometime.

    MSM Motion Pictures has a slew of films planned under its banner over the next two years. Among these: Bajate Raho (already released) and Mango among others are lined up for release.
    Nachiket Pantvaidya will head the motion pictures division of MSM

    Last year, Star India had elevated Pantvaidya to head its flagship Hindi general entertainment channel Star Plus as its general manager. Prior to this, Pantvaidya was heading Star India’s Marathi GEC Star Pravah.

    Pantvaidya had joined Star Group in November 2009 as MD of Fox Television Studios India. Later he was moved to Star Pravah as EVP and GM.

    Prior to that, Pantvaidya has worked with Balaji Telefilms, BBC Worldwide, Disney and Sony Entertainment (now Multi Screen Media).

  • Sony LIV is now on Windows Phone 8, Windows 8 PCs and tablets

    MUMBAI: Sony LIV, Multi Screen Media (MSM)‘s premium video-on-demand (VOD) service will now be available for Windows 8 App Store for Phone, Laptop, Desktop and Tablet. Sony LIV platform comprises of 18 years of rich and exclusive content from Sony’s stable, covering genres including drama, comedy, thriller, reality shows and many more. Viewers have the privilege of watching their favourite shows from Sony, anytime and from anywhere.

    Sony LIV offers a user experience through various innovative features. Users can use the Mood Wheel on Sony LIV to watch their favourite video as per their mood/genre; they can create playlists of their choicest of shows through My Q and be rewarded as a LIV Guru, by consuming Sony LIV content. In addition to original complete content, Sony LIV also offers short content formats like Catch-up episodes, Quickisodes and Short crunch episodes.

    Nitesh Kripalani says Sony LIV believes in leveraging consumer insights to reach out to viewers in the most effective way possible

    Speaking on the development, Sony Entertainment Network executive VP – New Media, business development and digital/syndication Nitesh Kripalani said “We chose Windows 8 platform owing to the customer base it caters to. At Sony LIV, we believe in leveraging consumer insights to reach out to viewers in the most effective way possible. Our key goal is to be available wherever our user is.”

    Microsoft Corporation India Windows Phone business director Vineet Durani commented, “The Sony LIV app leverages the signature rich and immersive Windows Phone UI to deliver innovative and engaging video on demand entertainment to users. We are excited to add this app to the fast growing Windows Phone Store. The Sony LIV app is now available on the Windows store too catering to the fast-growing set of tablets, laptops and other devices running the Windows 8 operating system.”

  • Sony Six appoints Neo’s Prasana Krishnan as Business Head

    Sony Six appoints Neo’s Prasana Krishnan as Business Head

    MUMBAI: In an early morning announcement, former COO of Neo Sports Broadcast Prasana Krishnan has been brought into MSM’s sports channel Sony Six as their new Business Head. Krishnan was also previously associated with Nimbus Media, Times of India and Arthur Andersen.

    Talking about this new development MSM India COO N P Singh says, “We are optimistic that Prasana’s appointment will further strengthen and grow Sony Six’s position in what can be called as one of the most competitive broadcasting markets in the world. We look forward to a long and fruitful working association with him.”
    Prasanna Krishnan is confident that the channel will grow consistently to the leadership position in this space

    Prasana, who is delighted about his new role with Sony Six, says “I look forward to take up this challenging role and work towards ensuring that the channel grows consistently to the leadership position in this space.” Krishnan has over 17 years of experience in the media and consulting sectors.

    In 2006, Krishnan joined Neo Sports and in 2009 was elevated to chief operating officer.

  • Value 360 communications to manage the PR mandate for Sony LIV

    Value 360 communications to manage the PR mandate for Sony LIV

    MUMBAI: Sony LIV, the online entertainment destination, owned and operated by Multi Screen Media (MSM), has appointed Value 360 Communications as its official PR agency in India. Sony LIV is the latest addition to the list of industry leaders for whom the leading PR firm offers communications strategy and messaging services.

    Sony Pictures Television (SPT) backs Multi Screen Media Private Limited, which is one of India’s leading television network. It comprises of Sony Entertainment Television (SET), one of India’s leading Hindi general entertainment television channels; MAX, India’s premium Hindi movies and special events channel; SAB, a family comedy entertainment channel; PIX, the English movie channel; MIX a refreshing Hindi music channel, SIX, India’s Premier Sports Entertainment Channel and Sony LIV, the digital channel. Multi-Screen Media’s channels are available across the Globe and influence over 400 million viewers in the Indian sub-continent, and the South Asian Diaspora worldwide.

    Value 360 Communications founder director Kunal Kishore commented, “We are extremely pleased to be the partner of choice for a marquee brand like Sony LIV, an ahead-of-the-curve player in the digital entertainment space. Our key objective would be to establish thought leadership, carve a distinctive niche for the brand in the Video-On-Demand market in India and create top of mind recall amongst their target set of consumers. At Value 360, we have a team of expert consultants working in diverse areas of public relations, from traditional media to new media. We hope to successfully align this expertise into the work that we do for Sony LIV”

    Commenting on the new development, Sony Entertainment Network executive VP – New Media, Business Development and Digital/Syndication Nitesh Kripalani said, “Digital entertainment industry is on a high-growth trajectory and we are focused to establish Sony LIV as the most innovative Video On Demand Service provider that offers world class viewing experience to its users all across the world. Our motive is to fortify our position in the Indian market with a well entrenched consumer connect strategy. We chose Value 360 Communications as our preferred partner owing to the agency’s extensive experience and expertise in managing digital businesses.”

  • Value 360 communications to manage the PR mandate for Sony LIV

     

    MUMBAI: Sony LIV, the online entertainment destination, owned and operated by Multi Screen Media (MSM), has appointed Value 360 Communications as its official PR agency in India. Sony LIV is the latest addition to the list of industry leaders for whom the leading PR firm offers communications strategy and messaging services.

     

    Sony Pictures Television (SPT) backs Multi Screen Media Private Limited, which is one of India‘s leading television network. It comprises of Sony Entertainment Television (SET), one of India‘s leading Hindi general entertainment television channels; MAX, India‘s premium Hindi movies and special events channel; SAB, a family comedy entertainment channel; PIX, the English movie channel; MIX a refreshing Hindi music channel, SIX, India‘s Premier Sports Entertainment Channel and Sony LIV, the digital channel. Multi-Screen Media‘s channels are available across the Globe and influence over 400 million viewers in the Indian sub-continent, and the South Asian Diaspora worldwide.

    Value 360 Communications founder director Kunal Kishore commented, “We are extremely pleased to be the partner of choice for a marquee brand like Sony LIV, an ahead-of-the-curve player in the digital entertainment space. Our key objective would be to establish thought leadership, carve a distinctive niche for the brand in the Video-On-Demand market in India and create top of mind recall amongst their target set of consumers. At Value 360, we have a team of expert consultants working in diverse areas of public relations, from traditional media to new media. We hope to successfully align this expertise into the work that we do for Sony LIV.”

     

    Commenting on the new development, Sony Entertainment Network executive VP – New Media, Business Development and Digital/Syndication Nitesh Kripalani said, “Digital entertainment industry is on a high-growth trajectory and we are focused to establish Sony LIV as the most innovative Video On Demand Service provider that offers world class viewing experience to its users all across the world. Our motive is to fortify our position in the Indian market with a well entrenched consumer connect strategy. We chose Value 360 Communications as our preferred partner owing to the agency‘s extensive experience and expertise in managing digital businesses.”

  • Video consumption on mobile phones on a rise

    Video consumption on mobile phones on a rise

    MUMBAI:  have become the prime medium for video consumption. As per the reports sent by sonyliv.com, 53 per cent of viewers watch videos on their mobile phones, 32 per cent view them online while 15 per cent, on their tablets.  

    The data was revealed in the two-quarter report of Multi Screen Media (MSM) operated sonyliv.com. Elaborating further, the report gives insights on the type of audience viewing digital content. The general entertainment content sees higher consumption by females compared to the overall internet video consumption in India. According to the report, video consumption trends 47 per cent female viewers and 53 per cent male; compared to the overall internet video consumption split of 71:29, male to females.

    Additionally, it is interesting to note that elderly people also watch videos online. Though the number is comparatively less, a three per cent, but it puts forth the fact that an upward shift in video consumption is witnessed in this bracket of audience as well. About 46 per cent of viewers are from the age group 15 to 24 years, 32 per cent from the age bracket of 25 to 34 years, followed by 17 per cent between the age group 35 and 44 years.

    The analytics also reveal that comedy and daily dramas have a higher viewership on digital platforms. Nearly 78 per cent of the videos consumed are comedy, drama and thriller. Comedy is viewed by 30 per cent of the audience, followed by drama at 25 per cent and thrillers at 23 per cent. Reality shows and other genres of shows are watched by the remaining 22 per cent.

    “At sonyliv.com, we are captivated with data and analytics and believe in leveraging the insights to drive a superior world class viewing experience. We publish insights based on real data that we study every hour of the day. This is done by monitoring the consumption behavior of over 50,000 unique visitors on an average who log on to our website, across all platforms i.e. online, mobile and tablet,” informs Sony Entertainment Network executive VP–new media, business development and digital/syndication Nitesh Kripalani.

    The report also suggests that viewers today increasingly prefer short content formats on digital platforms. The audiences opt for formats like catch-up episodes, quickisodes and short crunch episodes. As per the data, 64 per cent of viewers watch catch-up episodes, whereas more than one-third of viewers consume shorter crunched episodes, or called as quickisodes.

    The data also reveals that the average time spent by consumers per video has increased from eight minutes to 11.5 minutes (73 per cent of average duration of content) and the maximum number of videos is being watched between, 1pm to 4 pm and 9 to 11 pm.

  • MSM appoints Neville Bastawalla as SONY PIX marketing head

    MSM appoints Neville Bastawalla as SONY PIX marketing head

    MUMBAI: Multi Screen Media (MSM) today announced the appointment of Neville Bastawalla as its new marketing head for its premium Hollywood movie channel SONY PIX.

    Neville Bastawalla with his experience and understanding of the business will help to consolidate Pix’s position in the genre

     

    A marketing professional with over 14 years of multi-brand experience, Bastawalla’s previous stint was with Star India where he joined in January 2011 as marketing head for its English channels and was most recently head – marketing for STAR’s Hindi movies channels since February 2013.

     

    Prior to joining Star India, Bastawalla was head marketing at Mid-Day Infomedia where he spent about four years. He joined Mid-Day in 2007 after a brief stint with Nickelodeon as senior marketing manager. A management graduate in marketing, Bastawalla also has worked with HSBC, Walt Disney Company, Contract Advertising and Mudra Communications.

     

    Announcing Bastawalla’s appointment SONY PIX EVP & business head Saurabh Yagnik said, “We are delighted to have Neville join the team and we are certain that his experience and understanding of the business and our audience will help us consolidate our position in the genre. We look forward to a long and fruitful working association with him.”

     

    “I am delighted to begin my association with Sony PIX.  The channel has always uniquely positioned itself in the English movie genre, with a strong content library and innovative campaigns for its premieres and other properties. The channel showcases the best of Hollywood movies. I look forward to taking up this role and delivering on the business objectives for the channel,” said Bastawalla.