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Media Beat: September 14, 2020 | FYIMusicNews – FYI Music News

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4 years ago

September 14, 2020

TekSavvy wins appeal. Now demanding millions from Bell, Rogers

TekSavvy Solutions Inc. (TekSavvy) is head over heels following the unanimous decision from the Federal Court of Appeal (FCA) rejecting appeals filed by Canada’s largest telecom and cable companies (including Bell Canada and Rogers), which sought to overturn a key CRTC decision concerning the wholesale rates the large carriers charge TekSavvy and the other independent Internet service providers.

In dismissing the appeals with costs, the FCA noted the large carriers’ arguments were of “dubious merit”. The FCA also lifted the Stay on the implementation of the CRTC’s August 2019 rate decision, which confirmed that the large carriers overstated their costs of providing wholesale access to their networks for years, corrected their rates based on evidence of their costs and ordered the large carriers to repay amounts they overcharged competitors over the 3 year process. The CRTC previously condemned the large carriers’ rate-fixing conduct as “very disturbing” because it would drive smaller competitors out of business and deny Canadians choice for Internet services.

TekSavvy previously filed a formal Complaint with the Competition Bureau, detailing how Bell and Rogers deviated from CRTC-costing rules to inflate wholesale rates they charge competitors, while offering competing retail prices below the wholesale costs they had inflated. TekSavvy submitted that the Government of Canada should order the Competition Bureau to investigate Bell and Rogers’ wholesale rate-fixing activities because it harms competition and keeps Internet prices artificially high at the expense of millions of Canadian consumers.

“The FCA decision is a major step forward in the fight for fair Internet pricing for Canadians. The arguments of Bell and the other carriers have been revealed to be just more baseless tactics designed to stifle competition and keep prices high”, says Andy Kaplan-Myrth, TekSavvy’s VP of Regulatory and Carrier Affairs.

Based on the CRTC’s August 2019 rate decision and the Aug. 11, 2020, Federal Court of Appeal decision, TekSavvy now claims it is owed tens of millions of dollars by the large carriers. “Every month, Bell and Rogers continue to game the system and their inflated wholesale rates continue to stifle competition and gouge consumers,” the company said in a statement. “TekSavvy expects that the CRTC will once again direct the large carriers to file updated tariffs with the corrected final rates and to refund monies owed, consistent with the CRTC’s prior direction before the Stay. Until that outstanding balance is paid, in full, TekSavvy will be applying the amounts owed, with interest, as a monthly credit on the wholesale fees charged by Bell and Rogers.”

CRTC Broadcasting Sector Overview

Total broadcasting revenues for Canada’s broadcasters declined by 1.3% between 2018 and 2019, according to a report released by the CRTC. The biggest drop in revenue was from CBC conventional television, as it collectively reported a decrease of $116 million (or 12.2%).

Radio stations continue to report declining revenues in 2019. This year, commercial stations reported an annual growth rate of -3.9%, the largest year-over-year decrease in the past 5 years. This decline is also greater than the 5-year Cumulative Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of -2.4%.

Over 700 commercial radio stations reported revenues of $1,453 million in 2019, compared to $1,513 million in 2018. Ethnic radio stations outperformed all other stations with a reported 2.6% growth rate while both French-language stations (-3.3%) and English-language stations (-4.4%) reported declines in revenue.

The most pronounced decline was reported by English-language AM stations (-7.0%), while the largest increase was reported by Ethnic FM stations (6.0%).

In contrast to the trend in recent years, national time sale revenues declined by a greater percentage than revenues for local time sales (-5.0% and -3.6% respectively).

For the first time in 8 years, conventional TV stations have shown annual revenue growth. Commercial TV stations reported revenues of $1,554 million in 2019, compared to $1,541 million in 2018. The year-over-year increase of 0.8% is mostly due to a 3.6% increase in national time sales.

Quebec was the only region to post a year-over-year revenue decline (-4.4%) while the Atlantic region posted the highest growth (8.1%).

Independently-owned stations received over $21 million in revenue from the Independent Local News Fund, which was established in 2018 to support non-vertically-integrated conventional stations that provide local news. This represents a 2.1% decline from the previous year.

While conventional television station revenues grew, and despite a 1.4% decrease in total programming and production expenses, overall expenses still exceeded total revenues for the fifth consecutive year. Conventional stations posted a negative PBIT of -$109 million in 2019, compared to -$134 million in 2018.

Canadian programming expenditures (CPE) increased by 2.2% in 2019. Conventional television stations reported $670 million in CPE in 2019, compared to $655 million in 2018. The vast majority of the increase in CPE came from the Music and Entertainment program category, specifically the category increased by approximately $24 million in 2019.

The CBC reported a decrease of -10.9% in total revenues for its conventional television this year, declining from $1,063 million in 2018 to $947 million in 2019. The decrease can be partially attributed to the absence of revenues from the Olympic Games.

Commensurately, CPE expenditures also decreased to $494 million this year from $580 million in 2018.

Together, 6 educational stations reported nearly $186 million in revenue and spent nearly $66 million in CPE in 2019. In 2019, government funding of educational television represented 79% of total revenues.

For the third consecutive year, discretionary and on-demand services reported declining revenues and reduced spending. However, the profitability of discretionary services increased from 23.6% in 2018 to 26% in 2019. The profitability of on-demand services also increased from 13.4% in 2018 to 14.2% in 2019; in both cases, this increase was primarily caused by a decrease in expenses.

These services spent over $1.6 billion on Canadian programming in 2019.

Revenue growth rates of the nearly 300 discretionary and on-demand services varied by the language of the services. French-language and Ethnic services reported negative revenue growth of -3.6% and -8.6%, respectively. However, for the first time since 2016, English/Bilingual services experienced a slight year-over-year revenue growth rate of 0.6%.

English/Bilingual services continue to be the most profitable services. This year, the English/Bilingual services reported a PBIT margin of 29%, while the French-language and Ethnic services reported margins of 9.6% and 6.7%, respectively.

Discretionary services reported nearly $1.64 billion in CPE in 2019. Over 50% of the CPE for discretionary services was spent on sports programming, followed by 15% on news programming.

Of the $331 million allocated to music and entertainment programming, $61 million was spent on reality television.

Television service providers (BDUs) continued their downward trend, albeit at a slightly slower rate than the previous year. The continued uptake in IPTV services is helping offset drops reported by cable and satellite providers (Direct-to-Home).

Over each of the past four years, television service providers have reported negative revenue growth, although the decline of -0.8% in 2019 is the lowest since 2015. Overall revenues dropped by $67 million, from $8,421 million in 2018 to $8,354 million in 2019.

Although cable and satellite service providers continue to report drops in revenue, declining by 2.1% and 3.0% respectively in 2019, this annual rate of decline is significantly lower when compared to the five-year average annual declines of -3.6% (cable) and -5.8% (satellite).

The trend for IPTV revenues has continued in 2019, with lower revenue growth in 2019 than in previous years. IPTV revenues grew by $86 million or 4.1% in 2019, compared to the five-year average annual growth rate of 8.4%.

The average revenue per subscriber increased by 1.9% in 2019. The average subscriber paid $66 per month which is a 1.9% increase over 2018.

Operating margins for the industry were a healthy 16.5% in 2019, though this included declines of 1.4% over 2018 and 3.9% over 2017.

While satellite service providers have reported the largest drops in subscribership of the three television service provider segments, they continue to have the highest profitability of all three segments: 28.1% (satellite); 17.6% (cable); and 4.5% (IPTV).

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What to stream this weekend: ‘Civil War,’ Snow Patrol, ‘How to Die Alone,’ ‘Tulsa King’ and ‘Uglies’

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4 days ago

September 13, 2024

Anne Joseph

Hallmark launching a streaming service with two new original series, and Bill Skarsgård out for revenge in “Boy Kills World” are some of the new television, films, music and games headed to a device near you.

Also among the streaming offerings worth your time as selected by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists: Alex Garland’s “Civil War” starring Kirsten Dunst, Natasha Rothwell’s heartfelt comedy for Hulu called “How to Die Alone” and Sylvester Stallone’s second season of “Tulsa King” debuts.

NEW MOVIES TO STREAM SEPT. 9-15

— Alex Garland’s “Civil War” is finally making its debut on MAX on Friday. The film stars Kirsten Dunst as a veteran photojournalist covering a violent war that’s divided America; She reluctantly allows an aspiring photographer, played by Cailee Spaeny, to tag along as she, an editor (Stephen McKinley Henderson) and a reporter (Wagner Moura) make the dangerous journey to Washington, D.C., to interview the president (Nick Offerman), a blustery, rising despot who has given himself a third term, taken to attacking his citizens and shut himself off from the press. In my review, I called it a bellowing and haunting experience; Smart and thought-provoking with great performances. It’s well worth a watch.

— Joey King stars in Netflix’s adaptation of Scott Westerfeld’s “Uglies,” about a future society in which everyone is required to have beautifying cosmetic surgery at age 16. Streaming on Friday, McG directed the film, in which King’s character inadvertently finds herself in the midst of an uprising against the status quo. “Outer Banks” star Chase Stokes plays King’s best friend.

— Bill Skarsgård is out for revenge against the woman (Famke Janssen) who killed his family in “Boy Kills World,” coming to Hulu on Friday. Moritz Mohr directed the ultra-violent film, of which Variety critic Owen Gleiberman wrote: “It’s a depraved vision, yet I got caught up in its kick-ass revenge-horror pizzazz, its disreputable commitment to what it was doing.”

— AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr

NEW MUSIC TO STREAM SEPT. 9-15

— The year was 2006. Snow Patrol, the Northern Irish-Scottish alternative rock band, released an album, “Eyes Open,” producing the biggest hit of their career: “Chasing Cars.” A lot has happened in the time since — three, soon to be four quality full-length albums, to be exact. On Friday, the band will release “The Forest Is the Path,” their first new album in seven years. Anthemic pop-rock is the name of the game across songs of love and loss, like “All,”“The Beginning” and “This Is the Sound Of Your Voice.”

— For fans of raucous guitar music, Jordan Peele’s 2022 sci-fi thriller, “NOPE,” provided a surprising, if tiny, thrill. One of the leads, Emerald “Em” Haywood portrayed by Keke Palmer, rocks a Jesus Lizard shirt. (Also featured through the film: Rage Against the Machine, Wipers, Mr Bungle, Butthole Surfers and Earth band shirts.) The Austin noise rock band are a less than obvious pick, having been signed to the legendary Touch and Go Records and having stopped releasing new albums in 1998. That changes on Friday the 13th, when “Rack” arrives. And for those curious: The Jesus Lizard’s intensity never went away.

— AP Music Writer Maria Sherman

NEW SHOWS TO STREAM SEPT. 9-15

— Hallmark launched a streaming service called Hallmark+ on Tuesday with two new original series, the scripted drama “The Chicken Sisters” and unscripted series “Celebrations with Lacey Chabert.” If you’re a Hallmark holiday movies fan, you know Chabert. She’s starred in more than 30 of their films and many are holiday themed. Off camera, Chabert has a passion for throwing parties and entertaining. In “Celebrations,” deserving people are surprised with a bash in their honor — planned with Chabert’s help. “The Chicken Sisters” stars Schuyler Fisk, Wendie Malick and Lea Thompson in a show about employees at rival chicken restaurants in a small town. The eight-episode series is based on a novel of the same name.

— Natasha Rothwell of “Insecure” and “The White Lotus” fame created and stars in a new heartfelt comedy for Hulu called “How to Die Alone.” She plays Mel, a broke, go-along-to-get-along, single, airport employee who, after a near-death experience, makes the conscious decision to take risks and pursue her dreams. Rothwell has been working on the series for the past eight years and described it to The AP as “the most vulnerable piece of art I’ve ever put into the world.” Like Mel, Rothwell had to learn to bet on herself to make the show she wanted to make. “In the Venn diagram of me and Mel, there’s significant overlap,” said Rothwell. It premieres Friday on Hulu.

— Shailene Woodley, DeWanda Wise and Betty Gilpin star in a new drama for Starz called “Three Women,” about entrepreneur Sloane, homemaker Lina and student Maggie who are each stepping into their power and making life-changing decisions. They’re interviewed by a writer named Gia (Woodley.) The series is based on a 2019 best-selling book of the same name by Lisa Taddeo. “Three Women” premieres Friday on Starz.

— Sylvester Stallone’s second season of “Tulsa King” debuts Sunday on Paramount+. Stallone plays Dwight Manfredi, a mafia boss who was recently released from prison after serving 25 years. He’s sent to Tulsa to set up a new crime syndicate. The series is created by Taylor Sheridan of “Yellowstone” fame.

— Alicia Rancilio

NEW VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

— One thing about the title of Focus Entertainment’s Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 — you know exactly what you’re in for. You are Demetrian Titus, a genetically enhanced brute sent into battle against the Tyranids, an insectoid species with an insatiable craving for human flesh. You have a rocket-powered suit of armor and an arsenal of ridiculous weapons like the “Chainsword,” the “Thunderhammer” and the “Melta Rifle,” so what could go wrong? Besides the squishy single-player mode, there are cooperative missions and six-vs.-six free-for-alls. You can suit up now on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S or PC.

— Likewise, Wild Bastards isn’t exactly the kind of title that’s going to attract fans of, say, Animal Crossing. It’s another sci-fi shooter, but the protagonists are a gang of 13 varmints — aliens and androids included — who are on the run from the law. Each outlaw has a distinctive set of weapons and special powers: Sarge, for example, is a robot with horse genes, while Billy the Squid is … well, you get the idea. Australian studio Blue Manchu developed the 2019 cult hit Void Bastards, and this Wild-West-in-space spinoff has the same snarky humor and vibrant, neon-drenched cartoon look. Saddle up on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, Nintendo Switch or PC.

— Lou Kesten

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Trump could cash out his DJT stock within weeks. Here’s what happens if he sells

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4 weeks ago

August 23, 2024

Harry Miller

Former President Donald Trump is on the brink of a significant financial decision that could have far-reaching implications for both his personal wealth and the future of his fledgling social media company, Trump Media & Technology Group (TMTG). As the lockup period on his shares in TMTG, which owns Truth Social, nears its end, Trump could soon be free to sell his substantial stake in the company. However, the potential payday, which makes up a large portion of his net worth, comes with considerable risks for Trump and his supporters.

Trump’s stake in TMTG comprises nearly 59% of the company, amounting to 114,750,000 shares. As of now, this holding is valued at approximately $2.6 billion. These shares are currently under a lockup agreement, a common feature of initial public offerings (IPOs), designed to prevent company insiders from immediately selling their shares and potentially destabilizing the stock. The lockup, which began after TMTG’s merger with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC), is set to expire on September 25, though it could end earlier if certain conditions are met.

Should Trump decide to sell his shares after the lockup expires, the market could respond in unpredictable ways. The sale of a substantial number of shares by a major stakeholder like Trump could flood the market, potentially driving down the stock price. Daniel Bradley, a finance professor at the University of South Florida, suggests that the market might react negatively to such a large sale, particularly if there aren’t enough buyers to absorb the supply. This could lead to a sharp decline in the stock’s value, impacting both Trump’s personal wealth and the company’s market standing.

Moreover, Trump’s involvement in Truth Social has been a key driver of investor interest. The platform, marketed as a free speech alternative to mainstream social media, has attracted a loyal user base largely due to Trump’s presence. If Trump were to sell his stake, it might signal a lack of confidence in the company, potentially shaking investor confidence and further depressing the stock price.

Trump’s decision is also influenced by his ongoing legal battles, which have already cost him over $100 million in legal fees. Selling his shares could provide a significant financial boost, helping him cover these mounting expenses. However, this move could also have political ramifications, especially as he continues his bid for the Republican nomination in the 2024 presidential race.

Trump Media’s success is closely tied to Trump’s political fortunes. The company’s stock has shown volatility in response to developments in the presidential race, with Trump’s chances of winning having a direct impact on the stock’s value. If Trump sells his stake, it could be interpreted as a lack of confidence in his own political future, potentially undermining both his campaign and the company’s prospects.

Truth Social, the flagship product of TMTG, has faced challenges in generating traffic and advertising revenue, especially compared to established social media giants like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook. Despite this, the company’s valuation has remained high, fueled by investor speculation on Trump’s political future. If Trump remains in the race and manages to secure the presidency, the value of his shares could increase. Conversely, any missteps on the campaign trail could have the opposite effect, further destabilizing the stock.

As the lockup period comes to an end, Trump faces a critical decision that could shape the future of both his personal finances and Truth Social. Whether he chooses to hold onto his shares or cash out, the outcome will likely have significant consequences for the company, its investors, and Trump’s political aspirations.

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Arizona man accused of social media threats to Trump is arrested

Published

4 weeks ago

August 23, 2024

Harry Miller

Cochise County, AZ — Law enforcement officials in Arizona have apprehended Ronald Lee Syvrud, a 66-year-old resident of Cochise County, after a manhunt was launched following alleged death threats he made against former President Donald Trump. The threats reportedly surfaced in social media posts over the past two weeks, as Trump visited the US-Mexico border in Cochise County on Thursday.

Syvrud, who hails from Benson, Arizona, located about 50 miles southeast of Tucson, was captured by the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office on Thursday afternoon. The Sheriff’s Office confirmed his arrest, stating, “This subject has been taken into custody without incident.”

In addition to the alleged threats against Trump, Syvrud is wanted for multiple offences, including failure to register as a sex offender. He also faces several warrants in both Wisconsin and Arizona, including charges for driving under the influence and a felony hit-and-run.

The timing of the arrest coincided with Trump’s visit to Cochise County, where he toured the US-Mexico border. During his visit, Trump addressed the ongoing border issues and criticized his political rival, Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris, for what he described as lax immigration policies. When asked by reporters about the ongoing manhunt for Syvrud, Trump responded, “No, I have not heard that, but I am not that surprised and the reason is because I want to do things that are very bad for the bad guys.”

This incident marks the latest in a series of threats against political figures during the current election cycle. Just earlier this month, a 66-year-old Virginia man was arrested on suspicion of making death threats against Vice President Kamala Harris and other public officials.