TV18 & Viacom18 form distribution JV IndiaCast

Will create India's first multi-platform content assset monetisation entity and distribution platform for all channels and content of TV18, Viacom18, Eenadu Group in India and abroad

BestMediaInfo Bureau | Delhi | June 5, 2012

TV18 and Viacom18 have announced a strategic joint venture called IndiaCast to create India's first multi-platform 'content asset monetisation' entity. IndiaCast is mandated to drive domestic and international channel distribution, placement services and content syndication for TV18, Viacom18, A+E Networks I TV18 and the Eenadu Group, post completion of its acquisition by TV18.

With this landmark move, all content assets of the two media houses will be consolidated for monetisation across all media in India and abroad. IndiaCast has been created with the aim to consolidate the distribution functions of both media houses to reach newer markets and increase operational efficiencies.

IndiaCast will distribute all the channels of TV18, Viacom18, A+E Networks I TV18 and Eenadu Group across all platforms, including cable, DTH, IPTV, HITS and MMDS, and will offer a range of channels, from entertainment, kids, news, infotainment and music to regional genres.

-          TV18 - CNN-IBN, IBN7, IBN-Lokmat, CNBC-TV18, CNBCAwaaz & CNBC-TV18 Prime HD

-          Viacom18 -  COLORS, MTV, Nick, Sonic, Vh1, Comedy Central &  COLORS HD

-          A+E Networks I TV18  - HistoryTV18

-          Eenadu – ETV, ETV 2, ETV Bangla, ETV Marathi, ETV Kannada, ETV Gujarathi, ETV Oriya, ETV UP, ETV Bihar, ETV Urdu, ETV Rajasthan, ETV MP

In addition to the above 26 channels, IndiaCast will also distribute Sun Network channels and Disney channels in the Hindi speaking markets (HSMs).

Anuj Gandhi will be the Group Chief Executive Officer of IndiaCast, and Gaurav Gandhi Chief Operating Officer.

Sai Kumar, Group CEO, Network18 and TV18, said, “The Indian distribution market is throwing up ample opportunities and we are uniquely poised to make the most of this proposed alliance in an increasingly digitised environment. We have entrusted this mandate with Anuj, who brings with him impeccable leadership and rich experience across various formats. Distribution is one of the high-growth areas in this industry and we're excited to have a presence in this part of the business as well.”

Bob Bakish, President and CEO of Viacom International Media Networks, said, “As the Indian market continues to expand and evolve, the move to bring two media houses and proposed consolidation of Eenadu channels post acquisition  into one distribution sales house presents an opportunity to accelerate our growth in the region, while increasing efficiencies of operation. We're excited about the potential of IndiaCast and are looking forward to deepening our partnership with TV18 and Eenadu Group.”

Gandhi, who has been named Group CEO of IndiaCast, said, "This is a momentous step forward and will create a paradigm shift in distribution and syndication. The new venture gives a clear impetus to digitalisation. Also, it brings more channels and greater flexibility to consumers.”

He added, “The company will be the focal point not only for content and media distribution but also to drive the content asset monetisation business of TV18, Viacom18, A+E Networks I TV18 and Eenadu Group. The growth and way forward for media brands is through content asset monetisation – taking content across geographies, platforms and mediums.”

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