Facebook’s “Supreme Court” to Rule on Favoritism of Elite Users

 

Should Facebook have different rules for high-profile users than it does for the masses? Facebook’s Oversight Board said this week that it will review the company’s use of more relaxed content rules for high-profile users such as athletes and politicians. Under review is the companies “Cross Check” program for the better-known users.

 

What
is the Oversight Board

Mark Zuckerberg, the founder and CEO of Facebook appointed an Oversight Board in 2019. It’s a worldwide 20-member body, which includes human rights activists, lawyers, journalists, professors, and others to serve as an entity to hear appeals after Facebook makes decisions on content moderation. It is sometimes referred to as “Facebook’s Supreme Court” as it can overturn decisions made by company executives – it has the final word.

Since its creation, the Oversight Board has received more than 500,000 requests from Facebook users to examine its content moderation decisions. It has issued 15 decisions in what it calls “important cases,” with 11 of those decisions overturning Facebook. 

 

What’s at Stake in this Review

The review comes after a series of investigative reports by The Wall Street Journal that included a description of how the social media platform Facebook has applied one set of content moderation rules to regular users, but allowed high-profile users significantly more latitude with material that potentially violates Facebook’s content guidelines. It is to include how politicians, celebrities, journalists, etc. may be given different treatment or allowed another standard of conduct.

 

Source: oversightboard.com

 

The Wall Street Journal report showed the “cross-check” program effectively shields millions of accounts from the enforcement actions that more common Facebook users are held to. The program has allowed “whitelisted” accounts to post false claims that would not otherwise be tolerated. It also has allowed harassment, and other issues, according to the Journal.

Last year there were almost six million accounts in the system getting special treatment by Facebook employees. For the rest of Facebook’s 2.8 billion monthly visitors, violating the company’s guidelines against issues like bullying or hate speech is handled by automated systems. The Oversight Board said this week that Facebook must be more transparent in how rules are applied.

What Happens Next?

The Board said it expects to be briefed by Facebook within the next few days. The findings and any action will be published in October as part of its quarterly transparency report. The Board also said it has been examining the cross-check system “for some time.” In the past, it warned that a lack of transparency “could contribute to perceptions that Facebook is unduly influenced by political and commercial considerations.”

 

Take-Away

The Oversight Board is a Facebook-funded body that operates outside of the company’s formal corporate chain of command, it arbitrates decisions about content moderation. It’s in place as a separate entity outside of Facebook that has the final say in decision-making on moderation. It is currently looking at a practice Facebook uses, which uses digital electronic moderating for some and a far less stringent moderation system for others.

As with most businesses, reputation is important. The Board created less than two years by Mark Zuckerberg is to help protect the reputation of the company. The outcome of this review will be known in October.

 

Suggested Reading:

Advertising Rules Becoming a Guessing Game on Some Social Media

Your Data is Being Used to Generate Big Returns

Seeking Alpha Paywall Causes Frustration

Digital Media and Entertainment Industry Outlook

 

Sources:

https://oversightboard.com/news/3056753157930994-to-treat-users-fairly-facebook-must-commit-to-transparency/

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/facebook-cross-xcheck-oversight-board/

https://oversightboard.com/

https://www.wsj.com/articles/facebook-files-xcheck-zuckerberg-elite-rules-11631541353

 

Stay up to date. Follow us:

Facebook’s “Supreme Court” to Rule on Favoritism of Elite Users

 

Should Facebook have different rules for high-profile users than it does for the masses? Facebook’s Oversight Board said this week that it will review the company’s use of more relaxed content rules for high-profile users such as athletes and politicians. Under review is the companies “Cross Check” program for the better-known users.

 

What
is the Oversight Board

Mark Zuckerberg, the founder and CEO of Facebook appointed an Oversight Board in 2019. It’s a worldwide 20-member body, which includes human rights activists, lawyers, journalists, professors, and others to serve as an entity to hear appeals after Facebook makes decisions on content moderation. It is sometimes referred to as “Facebook’s Supreme Court” as it can overturn decisions made by company executives – it has the final word.

Since its creation, the Oversight Board has received more than 500,000 requests from Facebook users to examine its content moderation decisions. It has issued 15 decisions in what it calls “important cases,” with 11 of those decisions overturning Facebook. 

 

What’s at Stake in this Review

The review comes after a series of investigative reports by The Wall Street Journal that included a description of how the social media platform Facebook has applied one set of content moderation rules to regular users, but allowed high-profile users significantly more latitude with material that potentially violates Facebook’s content guidelines. It is to include how politicians, celebrities, journalists, etc. may be given different treatment or allowed another standard of conduct.

 

Source: oversightboard.com

 

The Wall Street Journal report showed the “cross-check” program effectively shields millions of accounts from the enforcement actions that more common Facebook users are held to. The program has allowed “whitelisted” accounts to post false claims that would not otherwise be tolerated. It also has allowed harassment, and other issues, according to the Journal.

Last year there were almost six million accounts in the system getting special treatment by Facebook employees. For the rest of Facebook’s 2.8 billion monthly visitors, violating the company’s guidelines against issues like bullying or hate speech is handled by automated systems. The Oversight Board said this week that Facebook must be more transparent in how rules are applied.

What Happens Next?

The Board said it expects to be briefed by Facebook within the next few days. The findings and any action will be published in October as part of its quarterly transparency report. The Board also said it has been examining the cross-check system “for some time.” In the past, it warned that a lack of transparency “could contribute to perceptions that Facebook is unduly influenced by political and commercial considerations.”

 

Take-Away

The Oversight Board is a Facebook-funded body that operates outside of the company’s formal corporate chain of command, it arbitrates decisions about content moderation. It’s in place as a separate entity outside of Facebook that has the final say in decision-making on moderation. It is currently looking at a practice Facebook uses, which uses digital electronic moderating for some and a far less stringent moderation system for others.

As with most businesses, reputation is important. The Board created less than two years by Mark Zuckerberg is to help protect the reputation of the company. The outcome of this review will be known in October.

 

Suggested Reading:

Advertising Rules Becoming a Guessing Game on Some Social Media

Your Data is Being Used to Generate Big Returns

Seeking Alpha Paywall Causes Frustration

Digital Media and Entertainment Industry Outlook

 

Sources:

https://oversightboard.com/news/3056753157930994-to-treat-users-fairly-facebook-must-commit-to-transparency/

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/facebook-cross-xcheck-oversight-board/

https://oversightboard.com/

https://www.wsj.com/articles/facebook-files-xcheck-zuckerberg-elite-rules-11631541353

 

Stay up to date. Follow us:

 

Engine Media’s WinView Games Announces Partnership with Atlanta Radio Station 680 The Fan

 

Partnership Expands on Current Partnership Between Engine Media’s Frankly Media and 680 The Fan

NEW YORK, September 21, 2021 — Engine Media Holdings, Inc. (“Engine” or the “Company”; NASDAQ: GAME; TSX-V: GAME), an esports/sports gaming and next-generation media solutions company, today announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, WinView Games (“WinView”) has entered into a partnership with 680 The Fan, Atlanta’s preeminent sports radio station, to elevate listener engagement with live games of skill that test the audience’s sports IQ for cash or fun. The partnership consists of exclusive WinView contests and promotions that are synchronized to 680 The Fan’s broadcast and website. These contests will allow people to play along while they listen or watch a game, which will span Braves, Hawks, Falcons, Bulldogs, and Yellow Jackets games. These games will be produced in both live and pregame modes, which will allow users to constantly engage with the events.

This partnership illustrates Engine’s unique position in the skills-based gaming market and its ability to combine media solutions with social gaming experiences to create truly one-of-a-kind experiences. 680 The Fan has worked with Engine’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Frankly Media (“Frankly”), to develop and manage its digital sports destination, including leveraging its live streaming audio and video platform.  WinView’s newly announced partnership with 680 The Fan is a perfect compliment.

This is the first partnership of its kind and has the potential to be replicated with other media platforms and to evolve into team partnerships. The decision for WinView to partner with 680 The Fan is driven by their impressive content and large sports following that will promote and market WinView Games. The decision for 680 The Fan to partner with WinView is driven by their commitment to continue improving fan engagement through the play-along game prediction platform offered by WinView. This commitment will be furthered by three of their top on-air personalities (Matt Chernoff, Carlos Medina, and Brian Hoyt) driving the program through the airwaves.

Scott McFarlane, Operations Director of 680 The Fan commented on the announcement stating, “We are excited about delivering these promotions to our listeners. This is a thrilling way to improve fan engagement and interaction with the station and the teams. Our partnership with WinView is another opportunity to enhance the digital sports destination we have been building with Frankly and Engine.”

“Partnering with outlets such as 680 The Fan is another example of Engine Media’s long-term growth plan. We are thrilled to continue partnering with this world-class team,” added Engine Media Chief Executive Officer Lou Schwartz. “Partnerships like this help broadcasters drive audience engagement and realize new streams of revenue. Additionally, social gaming is a way to engage fans by allowing them to demonstrate their sports IQ competing against other fans and winning cash.”

About Engine Media Holdings, Inc.

Engine Media Holdings Inc. is traded publicly under the ticker symbol (NASDAQ: GAME) (TSX-V: GAME). Engine provides premium social sports and esports gaming experiences, as well as unparalleled data analytics, marketing, advertising, and intellectual property to support its owned and operated direct-to-consumer properties while also providing these services to enable its clients and partners. The company’s subsidiaries include Stream Hatchet, the global leader in gaming video distribution analytics; Sideqik, a social influencer marketing discovery, analytics, and activation platform; Eden Games, a premium motorsport video game developer and publisher across console and mobile gaming; WinView Games, a social predictive play-along gaming platform for viewers to play while watching live events; UMG, an end-to-end competitive esports platform powering and broadcasting major esports events, as well as daily community tournaments, matches, and ladders; and Frankly Media, a digital publishing platform used to create, distribute and monetize content across all digital channels. Engine Media generates revenue through a combination of direct-to-consumer and subscription fees, streaming technology and data SaaS-based offerings, programmatic advertising, and sponsorships.

About Frankly Media

Frankly Media provides a complete suite of solutions that give publishers a unified workflow for the creation, management, publishing and monetization of digital content to any device, while maximizing audience value and revenue. Frankly delivers publishers and their audiences the solutions to meet the dynamic challenges of a multi-screen content distribution world.

Frankly’s comprehensive advertising services maximize ROI for our customers, including direct sales and programmatic ad support. With the release of our server-side ad insertion (SSAI) platform, Frankly is well-positioned to help video producers take full advantage of the growing market in addressable advertising.

Frankly’s technology products include a groundbreaking online video platform for Live, VOD and Live-to-VOD workflows, a full-featured CMS with rich storytelling capabilities, as well as native apps for iOS, Android, Apple TV, Fire TV and Roku.

About WinView Games

WinView Games is a Silicon Valley based company that is focused on paid entry, mobile two-screen synchronized televised sports games of skill in the U.S. The Company plans to leverage its extensive experience in pioneering real-time interactive television games played on the mobile second screen, its foundational patents and unique business model. The WinView app is an end-to-end two-screen TV synchronization platform for both television programming and commercials. The paid entry, skill-based WinView Games app uniquely enhances TV viewing enjoyment and rewards sports fans with prizes as they answer in-game questions while competing with friends in real-time during live televised sports. These games of skill are legal in 36 states. For more information, please visit www.winviewgames.com.

About Dickey Broadcasting Company

Dickey Broadcasting Company has been an Atlanta Sports institution for over 28 years. In addition to launching the sports-talk radio format in Atlanta (680 The Fan), DBC owns and operates multiple radio networks (The Braves Radio Network and Southern Sports Today), a conservative talk station (Xtra 106.3), robust digital and mobile offerings, and a sports-based events series (Tailgate Central).  DBC’s headquarters and studios are located inside the Battery Atlanta.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Engine to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “estimates”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. In respect of the forward-looking information contained herein, including the marketing partnership described herein and the potential outcomes and benefits to be derived therefrom, Engine has provided such statements and information in reliance on certain assumptions that management believed to be reasonable at the time. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements stated herein to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information contained in this news release.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. Engine does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by us or on our behalf, except as required by applicable law.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For Further Information:

Investors
Ryan Lawrence, ICR
[email protected]
332-242-4321

Media
James Goldfarb, Sloane & Company
[email protected]
212-446-1869

Source: Engine Media Holdings, Inc.

 

Engine Media’s WinView Games Announces Partnership with Atlanta Radio Station 680 The Fan

 

Partnership Expands on Current Partnership Between Engine Media’s Frankly Media and 680 The Fan

NEW YORK, September 21, 2021 — Engine Media Holdings, Inc. (“Engine” or the “Company”; NASDAQ: GAME; TSX-V: GAME), an esports/sports gaming and next-generation media solutions company, today announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, WinView Games (“WinView”) has entered into a partnership with 680 The Fan, Atlanta’s preeminent sports radio station, to elevate listener engagement with live games of skill that test the audience’s sports IQ for cash or fun. The partnership consists of exclusive WinView contests and promotions that are synchronized to 680 The Fan’s broadcast and website. These contests will allow people to play along while they listen or watch a game, which will span Braves, Hawks, Falcons, Bulldogs, and Yellow Jackets games. These games will be produced in both live and pregame modes, which will allow users to constantly engage with the events.

This partnership illustrates Engine’s unique position in the skills-based gaming market and its ability to combine media solutions with social gaming experiences to create truly one-of-a-kind experiences. 680 The Fan has worked with Engine’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Frankly Media (“Frankly”), to develop and manage its digital sports destination, including leveraging its live streaming audio and video platform.  WinView’s newly announced partnership with 680 The Fan is a perfect compliment.

This is the first partnership of its kind and has the potential to be replicated with other media platforms and to evolve into team partnerships. The decision for WinView to partner with 680 The Fan is driven by their impressive content and large sports following that will promote and market WinView Games. The decision for 680 The Fan to partner with WinView is driven by their commitment to continue improving fan engagement through the play-along game prediction platform offered by WinView. This commitment will be furthered by three of their top on-air personalities (Matt Chernoff, Carlos Medina, and Brian Hoyt) driving the program through the airwaves.

Scott McFarlane, Operations Director of 680 The Fan commented on the announcement stating, “We are excited about delivering these promotions to our listeners. This is a thrilling way to improve fan engagement and interaction with the station and the teams. Our partnership with WinView is another opportunity to enhance the digital sports destination we have been building with Frankly and Engine.”

“Partnering with outlets such as 680 The Fan is another example of Engine Media’s long-term growth plan. We are thrilled to continue partnering with this world-class team,” added Engine Media Chief Executive Officer Lou Schwartz. “Partnerships like this help broadcasters drive audience engagement and realize new streams of revenue. Additionally, social gaming is a way to engage fans by allowing them to demonstrate their sports IQ competing against other fans and winning cash.”

About Engine Media Holdings, Inc.

Engine Media Holdings Inc. is traded publicly under the ticker symbol (NASDAQ: GAME) (TSX-V: GAME). Engine provides premium social sports and esports gaming experiences, as well as unparalleled data analytics, marketing, advertising, and intellectual property to support its owned and operated direct-to-consumer properties while also providing these services to enable its clients and partners. The company’s subsidiaries include Stream Hatchet, the global leader in gaming video distribution analytics; Sideqik, a social influencer marketing discovery, analytics, and activation platform; Eden Games, a premium motorsport video game developer and publisher across console and mobile gaming; WinView Games, a social predictive play-along gaming platform for viewers to play while watching live events; UMG, an end-to-end competitive esports platform powering and broadcasting major esports events, as well as daily community tournaments, matches, and ladders; and Frankly Media, a digital publishing platform used to create, distribute and monetize content across all digital channels. Engine Media generates revenue through a combination of direct-to-consumer and subscription fees, streaming technology and data SaaS-based offerings, programmatic advertising, and sponsorships.

About Frankly Media

Frankly Media provides a complete suite of solutions that give publishers a unified workflow for the creation, management, publishing and monetization of digital content to any device, while maximizing audience value and revenue. Frankly delivers publishers and their audiences the solutions to meet the dynamic challenges of a multi-screen content distribution world.

Frankly’s comprehensive advertising services maximize ROI for our customers, including direct sales and programmatic ad support. With the release of our server-side ad insertion (SSAI) platform, Frankly is well-positioned to help video producers take full advantage of the growing market in addressable advertising.

Frankly’s technology products include a groundbreaking online video platform for Live, VOD and Live-to-VOD workflows, a full-featured CMS with rich storytelling capabilities, as well as native apps for iOS, Android, Apple TV, Fire TV and Roku.

About WinView Games

WinView Games is a Silicon Valley based company that is focused on paid entry, mobile two-screen synchronized televised sports games of skill in the U.S. The Company plans to leverage its extensive experience in pioneering real-time interactive television games played on the mobile second screen, its foundational patents and unique business model. The WinView app is an end-to-end two-screen TV synchronization platform for both television programming and commercials. The paid entry, skill-based WinView Games app uniquely enhances TV viewing enjoyment and rewards sports fans with prizes as they answer in-game questions while competing with friends in real-time during live televised sports. These games of skill are legal in 36 states. For more information, please visit www.winviewgames.com.

About Dickey Broadcasting Company

Dickey Broadcasting Company has been an Atlanta Sports institution for over 28 years. In addition to launching the sports-talk radio format in Atlanta (680 The Fan), DBC owns and operates multiple radio networks (The Braves Radio Network and Southern Sports Today), a conservative talk station (Xtra 106.3), robust digital and mobile offerings, and a sports-based events series (Tailgate Central).  DBC’s headquarters and studios are located inside the Battery Atlanta.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Engine to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “estimates”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. In respect of the forward-looking information contained herein, including the marketing partnership described herein and the potential outcomes and benefits to be derived therefrom, Engine has provided such statements and information in reliance on certain assumptions that management believed to be reasonable at the time. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements stated herein to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information contained in this news release.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. Engine does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by us or on our behalf, except as required by applicable law.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For Further Information:

Investors
Ryan Lawrence, ICR
[email protected]
332-242-4321

Media
James Goldfarb, Sloane & Company
[email protected]
212-446-1869

Source: Engine Media Holdings, Inc.

Cumulus Media Releases New Investor Presentation

 

ATLANTA, GA — September 20, 2021: Cumulus Media Inc. (NASDAQ: CMLS) announced today that it has released a new investor presentation, which can be found on its website at www.cumulusmedia.com/investors. A virtual video presentation is available via ChannelChek as part of Noble Capital Markets’ C-Suite Interview Series via the following link: Investor Presentation Video. Access to the virtual video presentation is free of charge and open to the public.

Mary G. Berner, President and Chief Executive Officer of CUMULUS MEDIA, said, “This presentation gives both existing and new investors a deeper understanding of our multi-year strategic repositioning from a one-dimensional radio company to a multi-dimensional, audio-first media company with multiple drivers of shareholder value, including:

• A continuation of recovery in the radio market,
• Multiple fast-growing digital business lines,
• Excellent free cash flow characteristics,
• A strong balance sheet and liquidity profile, and
• Substantial optionality regarding capital allocation.”

Berner continued, “With our proven team and track record of success, we believe that Cumulus Media is exceedingly well-positioned to deliver significant additional upside to shareholders.”

Upcoming Conference:

Deutsche Bank 29^th Annual Leveraged Finance Conference: Management will present on October 6, 2021, at 8:00 AM Eastern Time, and will host one-on-one meetings on October 5-6, 2021.

About CUMULUS MEDIA

CUMULUS MEDIA (NASDAQ: CMLS) is a leading media, advertising, and marketing services company delivering premium content to over a quarter billion people every month — wherever and whenever they want it. CUMULUS MEDIA engages listeners with high-quality local programming through 413 owned-and-operated radio stations across 86 markets; delivers nationally-syndicated sports, news, talk, and entertainment programming from iconic brands including the NFL, the NCAA, the Masters, CNN, the AP, the Academy of Country Music Awards, and many other world-class partners across nearly 7,300 affiliated stations through Westwood One, the largest audio network in America; and inspires listeners through the CUMULUS Podcast Network, its rapidly growing network of original podcasts that are smart, entertaining and thought-provoking. CUMULUS MEDIA provides advertisers with personal connections, local impact and national reach through broadcast and on-demand digital, mobile, social, and voice-activated platforms, as well as integrated digital marketing services, powerful influencers, full-service audio solutions, industry-leading research and insights, and live event experiences. CUMULUS MEDIA is the only audio media company to provide marketers with local and national advertising performance guarantees. For more information visit www.cumulusmedia.com.

Disclosure Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this release may constitute “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other federal securities laws. Such statements are statements other than historical fact and relate to our intent, belief or current expectations primarily with respect to our future operating, financial, and strategic performance. Any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ from those contained in or implied by the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors including, but not limited to, risks and uncertainties related to the implementation of our strategic operating plans, the evolving and uncertain nature of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the Company, the media industry, and the economy in general and other risk factors described from time to time in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Many of these risks and uncertainties are beyond our control, and the unexpected occurrence or failure to occur of any such events or matters could significantly alter our actual results of operations or financial condition. CUMULUS MEDIA assumes no responsibility to update any forward-looking statements, which are based upon expectations as of the date hereof, as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

For further information, please contact:

Investor Relations Department
[email protected]
404-260-6600

Source: Cumulus Media

Tuesday, September 21, 2021

Cumulus Media (CMLS)
Time For A Refresh

CUMULUS MEDIA, Inc. (NASDAQ: CMLS) is a leading audio-first media and entertainment company delivering premium content to over a quarter billion people every month — wherever and whenever they want it. CUMULUS MEDIA engages listeners with high-quality local programming through 428 owned-and-operated stations across 87 markets; delivers nationally-syndicated sports, news, talk, and entertainment programming from iconic brands including the NFL, the NCAA, the Masters, the Olympics, the GRAMMYS, the American Country Music Awards, and many other world-class partners across nearly 8,000 affiliated stations through Westwood One, the largest audio network in America; and inspires listeners through its rapidly growing network of original podcasts that are smart, entertaining and thought-provoking. CUMULUS MEDIA provides advertisers with local impact and national reach through on-air, digital, mobile, and voice-activated media solutions, as well as access to integrated digital marketing services, powerful influencers, and live event experiences. CUMULUS MEDIA is the only audio media company to provide marketers with local and national advertising performance guarantees.

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

A new, multi-dimensional approach. This report highlights a recent interview with CEO Mary Berner, who unveiled a new company presentation and its strategic shift toward a multi-dimensional Audio-first media company, rather than its previous Radio-first model. Click here for the full interview. We believe that the company’s recent agreement for its 413 stations and podcasts to be on the Audacy digital platform is an example of its multi-platform, multi-dimensional strategy.


Multiple revenue streams with large market opportunities.  A key component of the company’s presentation was to highlight the multiple revenue streams, each with a large market opportunity. While Radio offers a post pandemic advertising recovery, the company’s Digital businesses are growing rapidly. In Q2, Digital increased 50% in revenues and accounted for 14% of total company revenues. Management …

This research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary.  Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision. 

President and CEO Mary Berner delivers a new corporate presenation for Cumulus Media. Afterwards, she is joined by Noble Capital Markets Senior Research Analyst Michael Kupinski for a Q&A session. Research, News, and Advanced Market Data on CMLS View all C-Suite Interviews About Cumulus Media CUMULUS MEDIA (NASDAQ: CMLS) is a leading media, advertising, and marketing services company delivering premium content to over a quarter billion people every month—wherever and whenever they want it. CUMULUS MEDIA engages listeners with high-quality local programming through 413 owned-and-operated radio stations across 86 markets; delivers nationally-syndicated sports, news, talk, and entertainment programming from iconic brands including the NFL, the NCAA, the Masters, CNN, the AP, the Academy of Country Music Awards, and many other world-class partners across nearly 7,300 affiliated stations through Westwood One, the largest audio network in America; and inspires listeners through the CUMULUS Podcast Network, its rapidly growing network of original podcasts that are smart, entertaining and thought-provoking. CUMULUS MEDIA provides advertisers with personal connections, local impact and national reach through broadcast and on-demand digital, mobile, social, and voice-activated platforms, as well as integrated digital marketing services, powerful influencers, full-service audio solutions, industry-leading research and insights, and live event experiences. CUMULUS MEDIA is the only audio media company to provide marketers with local and national advertising performance guarantees. For more information visit www.cumulusmedia.com.

Noble Capital Markets Senior Research Analyst Michael Kupinski sits down with Engine Media Executive Chairman Tom Rogers and CEO Lou Schwartz for this exclusive interview. Research, News, and Advanced Market Data on GAME View all C-Suite Interviews About Engine Media Holdings, Inc. Engine Media Holdings Inc. is traded publicly under the ticker symbol (NASDAQ: GAME) (TSX-V: GAME). The organization is focused on developing premium consumer experiences and unparalleled technology and content solutions for partners in the esports, news and gaming industry. The company’s subsidiaries include Stream Hatchet; the global leader in gaming video distribution analytics; Eden Games , a premium video game developer and publisher with numerous console and mobile gaming franchises; WinView Games, an industry innovator in audience second screen play-along gaming during live events; UMG, an end-to-end competitive esports platform enabling the professional and amateur esports community with tournaments, matches and award nominating content; and Frankly Media, a digital publishing platform empowering broadcasters to create, distribute and monetize content across all channels. Engine Media generates revenue through a combination of direct-to-consumer and subscription fees; streaming technology and data SaaS-based offerings; programmatic advertising and sponsorships. To date, the combined companies’ clients have included more than 1,200 television, print and radio brands, dozens of gaming and technology companies, and have connectivity into hundreds of millions of homes around the world through their content, distribution and technology services.

Gray Television Purchases Third Rail Studios

 

ATLANTA, Sept. 13, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gray Television, Inc. (“Gray”) (NYSE: GTN) announced today that it has purchased Third Rail Studios in Doraville, Georgia, from The Integral Group for $27.5 million.

Third Rail Studios, a movie and television production facility developed by The Integral Group in 2016, is located adjacent to, and now will be integrated into, Gray’s entertainment-centric studio and community development, called Assembly. Assembly is currently under construction at the former site of the General Motors Assembly Plant, which is conveniently located inside the I-285 perimeter. Integral purchased the property in 2014 and master developed the site before selling to Gray in March 2021.

Since it opened its doors in 2016, Third Rail Studios has attracted top-notch clients. Its high-quality stages, mill and support spaces, and production offices will serve as an anchor for the future multi-studio site. For the past few years, Netflix has produced a number of feature-length programs at Third Rail Studios, including the highly acclaimed Ozark series and other blockbuster productions and movies like Rampage, starring Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson; Mile 22, starring Mark Wahlberg; the Dolly Parton series; and the Ballad of Richard Jewell; among others. Recently, Apple leased a significant amount of space within Third Rail Studios to help fulfill its production needs.

“Third Rail Studios is a pioneer in bringing film and television production to the Atlanta community, and we are excited to join forces to create an entire studio city to serve Georgia’s booming media industry. We are thankful for all of the work already completed at Assembly and proud to usher in the next chapter for the historical site.” said Hilton H. Howell, Chairman of the Board & CEO of Gray Television.

Assembly is set to become an Atlanta landmark with easy access to I-285, I-85, two MARTA stations, and DeKalb-Peachtree Airport. Development plans for Assembly include studio space, mixed-use development, as well as entertainment areas that will be a go-to destination for the Atlanta community. The first phase is expected to be finished by fall 2022.

“Our commitment remains to drive regional economic development for decades to come. Today’s transaction ensures the continuation of the original vision,” said Egbert Perry, CEO of The Integral Group. “As we closeout our role at Third Rail Studios, we leave the future of the entire Assembly project, now augmented with Third Rail Studios, in the capable hands of Gray.”

Gray Television, which will soon become the second largest local broadcaster in the United States, purchased the 127 acre Assembly site in March 2021. The company is also a majority investor in Atlanta-based Swirl Films, which will occupy one of the stages on the property. Gray also owns video production companies Raycom Sports, Tupelo-Raycom, and RTM Studios, the producer of PowerNation programs and content, and launched Circle Network with Opry Entertainment in January 2020. Upon its anticipated acquisition of the television stations of Meredith Corporation, Gray will own television stations serving 113 markets that reach approximately 36 percent of US television households, the top-rated television station in 79 of those markets.

Gray Television Purchases Third Rail Studios

 

ATLANTA, Sept. 13, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gray Television, Inc. (“Gray”) (NYSE: GTN) announced today that it has purchased Third Rail Studios in Doraville, Georgia, from The Integral Group for $27.5 million.

Third Rail Studios, a movie and television production facility developed by The Integral Group in 2016, is located adjacent to, and now will be integrated into, Gray’s entertainment-centric studio and community development, called Assembly. Assembly is currently under construction at the former site of the General Motors Assembly Plant, which is conveniently located inside the I-285 perimeter. Integral purchased the property in 2014 and master developed the site before selling to Gray in March 2021.

Since it opened its doors in 2016, Third Rail Studios has attracted top-notch clients. Its high-quality stages, mill and support spaces, and production offices will serve as an anchor for the future multi-studio site. For the past few years, Netflix has produced a number of feature-length programs at Third Rail Studios, including the highly acclaimed Ozark series and other blockbuster productions and movies like Rampage, starring Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson; Mile 22, starring Mark Wahlberg; the Dolly Parton series; and the Ballad of Richard Jewell; among others. Recently, Apple leased a significant amount of space within Third Rail Studios to help fulfill its production needs.

“Third Rail Studios is a pioneer in bringing film and television production to the Atlanta community, and we are excited to join forces to create an entire studio city to serve Georgia’s booming media industry. We are thankful for all of the work already completed at Assembly and proud to usher in the next chapter for the historical site.” said Hilton H. Howell, Chairman of the Board & CEO of Gray Television.

Assembly is set to become an Atlanta landmark with easy access to I-285, I-85, two MARTA stations, and DeKalb-Peachtree Airport. Development plans for Assembly include studio space, mixed-use development, as well as entertainment areas that will be a go-to destination for the Atlanta community. The first phase is expected to be finished by fall 2022.

“Our commitment remains to drive regional economic development for decades to come. Today’s transaction ensures the continuation of the original vision,” said Egbert Perry, CEO of The Integral Group. “As we closeout our role at Third Rail Studios, we leave the future of the entire Assembly project, now augmented with Third Rail Studios, in the capable hands of Gray.”

Gray Television, which will soon become the second largest local broadcaster in the United States, purchased the 127 acre Assembly site in March 2021. The company is also a majority investor in Atlanta-based Swirl Films, which will occupy one of the stages on the property. Gray also owns video production companies Raycom Sports, Tupelo-Raycom, and RTM Studios, the producer of PowerNation programs and content, and launched Circle Network with Opry Entertainment in January 2020. Upon its anticipated acquisition of the television stations of Meredith Corporation, Gray will own television stations serving 113 markets that reach approximately 36 percent of US television households, the top-rated television station in 79 of those markets.

How Social Media Advertisers are Adjusting to Greater Privacy Provided by Cell Phones

 

Facebook and Google, the world’s most envied data harvesters, along with other tech companies, are beginning to feel the effects of the change in  Apple’s iOS system. During the spring, Apple updated their iOS to not automatically share data in apps unless the user opted in.  Four months have passed since the rollout and tech companies and their advertisers are beginning to understand the impact of the change.

A major challenge prompted by Apple’s privacy move is whether a specific purchase of a product can be tied to a customer seeing an ad on the media outlet. At issue is determining conversion rates. Advertisers have been using this data to determine the return on ad spending. The ratio of conversions per dollar spent has been basic to advertising on social media. In fact, it is one of the big reasons social media and other tech platforms have pulled some spending away from more traditional print and broadcast. Advertisers could more accurately follow the trail from spending on an ad to how many have seen the ad, then whether a purchase stems from interaction with the ad.

The new iPhones all come with the operating system. According to Flurry, an app analytics company, the opt-in rate allowing tracking is less than 25%. According to Counterpoint, Apple accounted for 14.3% of phone sales in 2021 through June.

 

The challenge now for all ad platforms is that they are not as easily able to prove full benefit to advertisement purchasers. For the percentage of users that are continuing to opt-out of tracking, their information is unavailable or becomes a statistical “guess.” Put another way, they are virtually invisible to companies like Snapchat, TikTok, Pinterest, et al. In effect, it is no different from advertising dollars spent on print (magazines, newspapers, billboards, direct mail) and broadcast (television, radio).

As the biggest name in this type of advertising, Facebook/Instagram had an additional glitch with their count. It specifically caused a “Bug” that was recognized in August. Facebook said it was corrected last week.  Part of the solution is to use statistical modeling to estimate activity. Facebook noted on their bug page: 

 

“With this update, statistical modeling will be used to estimate associated values of additional modeled conversions where events cannot be observed directly (for example, where conversion data may be partial or missing due to data transmission limitations). As a result, you may see an increase in reported conversion values and other associated metrics like [Return on Ad Spend.] This update should help our bidding system learn from more representative data, which should then lead to more efficient performance.”

 

Estimates and statistical modeling by their very nature provide less information for advertisers to go on. This does not serve the digital media companies’ business well. In some cases, Facebook is working directly with brands to test programs that analyze pools of purchase data from a brand. The pools don’t provide data on individuals, it then reports average return on ad spend.

Take-Away

There is an information gap that is growing between advertisers on social media platforms including other big tech and how successful those ads are performing. Determining results is less apt to be a direct measurement and more a statistical model’s results. Individual data, in particular, is harder to come as data batching is used more. 

Suggested Reading:

Could $Hood Survive if PFOF Goes POOF?

Your Data is Used to Generate Big Returns

How Fast are People Cutting the Cord

Digital Media and Entertainment Industry Outlook

 

Sources:

https://www.flurry.com/blog/ios-14-5-opt-in-rate-idfa-app-tracking-transparency-weekly/

https://newsnationusa.com/news/finance/banking/facebook-says-measurement-bug-caused-it-to-undercount-ad-performance-on-iphone-12s-since-february/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ihw_Al4RNno

https://adage.com/article/digital-marketing-ad-tech-news/facebooks-ad-bug-issue-advertisers-under-apples-privacy-rules/2361826

https://www.forbes.com/sites/zakdoffman/2021/09/04/apple-iphone-13-and-iphone-14-upgrades-affected-by-new-ios-15-privacy-backlash/?sh=20489fac4307

https://www.cnn.com/2021/04/26/tech/apple-tracking-transparency-feature/index.html

https://www.counterpointresearch.com/xiaomi-becomes-1-smartphone-brand-globally-first-time-ever/

 

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Salem Podcast Network Launches Daybreak Insider Daily Podcast

 

IRVING, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Salem Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: SALM) announced today that the Salem Podcast Network (“SPN”) will launch the Daybreak Insider Daily Podcast beginning on Tuesday, September 7^th.

The daily podcast will be released each weekday morning by 6 am ET and will feature an overview of the biggest stories of the day. It will be hosted by Salem Radio News (“SRN”) anchor Rich Thomason from SRN’s Washington, D.C., bureau.

“It’s clear that podcast listeners are looking for informed reporting on what’s really happening in their world,” said Salem Senior Vice President of Spoken Word, Phil Boyce. “Within Salem, we have a wealth of resources, both for newsgathering and for analysis. With the Daybreak Insider Podcast, we’ll be pooling all of those resources into a single podcast to provide in-depth coverage from a conservative worldview. You’ll hear trusted voices from SRN News, Townhall.com, as well as the Salem Radio Network every day on this podcast, and it will all be pulled together by the experienced voice of Rich Thomason.”

The Daybreak Insider Podcast will be a companion product to the Daybreak Insider Newsletter, which is currently distributed each weekday morning to more than 100,000 subscribers.

Rich Thomason brings more than forty years of news experience to the Daybreak Insider Podcast, including more than two decades with SRN News as an anchor, correspondent, and news producer. Previously, he’s worked in Atlanta, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C., in the newsrooms of CNN and the Associated Press as a news writer, editor, reporter and anchor.

The Salem Podcast Network launched in January of 2021 with Charlie Kirk and Dinesh D’Souza. SPN has since added Todd Starnes, Trish Regan, and Jenna Ellis, in addition to the Salem Radio Network hosts who have daily podcasts on www.SalemPodcastNetwork.com. SPN was ranked the #13 podcast network in America in July by Triton Digital based on average weekly downloads. SPN averages more than 12 million downloads per month.

ABOUT SALEM MEDIA GROUP:

Salem Media Group is America’s leading multimedia company specializing in Christian and conservative content, with media properties comprising radio, digital media and book and newsletter publishing. Each day Salem serves a loyal and dedicated audience of listeners and readers numbering in the millions nationally. With its unique programming focus, Salem provides compelling content, fresh commentary and relevant information from some of the most respected figures across the Christian and conservative media landscape. Learn more about Salem Media Group, Inc. at www.salemmedia.com, Facebook and Twitter.

Evan D. Masyr
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(805) 384-4512
[email protected]

Source: Salem Media Group, Inc.

Released September 2, 2021

Thursday, September 02, 2021

Entravision Communications (EVC)
Financial Flexibility With Recent Buyout

Entravision Communications Corporation is a diversified Spanish-language media company utilizing a combination of television and radio operations to reach Hispanic consumers across the United States, as well as the border markets of Mexico. Entravision owns and/or operates 53 primary television stations and is the largest affiliate group of both the top-ranked Univision television network and Univision’s TeleFutura network, with television stations in 20 of the nation’s top 50 Hispanic markets. The Company also operates one of the nation’s largest groups of primarily Spanish-language radio stations, consisting of 48 owned and operated radio stations.

Michael Kupinski, Director of Research, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

Accelerates timetable to buy the rest of Cisneros. The Company acquired the remaining 49% interest in Cisneros Interactive that it did not already own, accelerating the timetable to buy the stake by 2 years. Notably, we estimate that the company paid $29 million for its original 51% ownership interest in Oct. 2020. The purchase solidifies the company as a leading digital media company, with over 70% of its consolidated revenue from its Digital Media businesses.


Attractive terms.  Entravision will pay the remaining shareholders of Cisneros in 1/3rd increments in each of the next 3 years. The annual payout will be 6 times EBITDA of the prior year end period times 49% divided by 3, an attractive valuation given the strong growth profile of Cisneros. The sellers will receive incremental upside from acquisitions that Cisneros makes. The buyout takes the place …

This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary.  Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.