The digital domain is witnessing a significant transition, with the Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST) platforms making significant inroads into the international content sphere.
Below is our overview of an informative article by Gavin Bridge in Variety that offers a glimpse into this exciting paradigm shift. The link to the original article is here.
A Leap in International Channel Offerings
The year has seen a remarkable uptick in the availability of international FAST channels for U.S. audiences, leaping from 39 channels at the outset to an impressive count of 116. This growth trajectory underscores a growing appetite for diverse content beyond the conventional English-centric offerings.
Dish Network's Sling Freestream: A Trailblazer
A cornerstone of this exponential growth in the United States is the Dish Network's Sling Freestream, which catapulted its international channel offerings from a humble 8 in January to a whopping 94 by August. The channels serve a feast of content from distinct regions, including the Middle East, North Africa, Pakistan, and India, enriching the FAST landscape with multicultural flavours.
South Korean Entertainment: A Noteworthy Forerunner
South Korean giants like CJ ENM Global and NEW ID have emerged as frontrunners to capture the FAST audience. Their quickness at adapting to the FAST model and creating content that strikes a chord with global audiences has set them apart internationally.
A Cautious Stance in China and Japan
Contrastingly, media enterprises in China and Japan exhibit cautious behaviour, possibly hesitating to embrace the free, ad-supported model due to cultural or economic concerns. This cautious approach sheds light on the challenges of transitioning towards an ad-supported model.
Europe's News-Centric Contribution: An Opportunity for Diversification
Europe's primary input in the FAST channel lineup leans heavily towards news-oriented content, hinting at a fertile ground for diversifying the European content spectrum on these platforms. This untapped potential presents a pathway for augmenting the Variety of content, fostering a richer viewer experience.
The Ripple Effect of Sling Freestream's Initiative
The strides made by Dish Network's Sling Freestream in broadening the scope of international content have undoubtedly set a stimulating precedent. This initiative beckons other platforms to expand their content horizons, adding layers of vibrancy to the evolving FAST ecosystem.
Monetisation and Diversification: The Road Ahead
The challenges tied to monetisation and market diversification loom as significant considerations in the journey of FAST platforms. Yet, the remarkable ascent of international FAST channels holds a promise of the future.
The Global Appeal: A Promise of More
The growth in international content on FAST platforms is a testament to the global appeal of streaming media. As content creators and consumers navigate this evolving terrain, the unfolding trends and following opportunities paint an intriguing picture of the potential.
The FAST TV landscape promises a richer, more inclusive media space as they cross the path of monetisation challenges and market diversification. Though loaded with challenges, the journey opens up possibilities for content creators and consumers, making the FAST ecosystem a space to watch.
About the Author: With over 30 years in the entertainment industry, Tim is the Managing Director of Stuart Entertainment. He's an international Film, TV and digital distribution expert, having worked with global giants like Paramount, Lionsgate, CBS and StudioCanal. As the Founder of Stuart Entertainment, Tim specialises in series creation, content distribution, and consulting across regions like Asia-Pacific and Europe. With a rich history of association with leading industry players, he's a guiding force in the Asia Pacific entertainment scene.
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