What are the key impacts of FAST’s growth in media and entertainment? The global expansion of FAST channels offers lucrative ad-supported revenue streams for content providers and non- US broadcasters. The migration of TV ad spending to digital aligns seamlessly with FAST, providing a classic linear TV experience enriched by targeted advertising. This caters to advertisers seeking efficient spending and precise audience targeting. Likewise, FAST taps into consumers’ growing preference for free, ad-supported content versus subscription models. Meanwhile, it is reshaping streaming dynamics by prompting industry-wide innovations in advertising and content discovery. Ultimately, the evolution of FAST drives content differentiation, global reach and technological advancements for better viewer experience in streaming. Which FAST tools or channels are you most excited about? We are most excited to see how the development of cloud solutions will unlock improved FAST channel creation, content distribution and CTV advertising potential. For example in January, we launched a new feature for Amagi Ads Plus called FAST Deals – a digital marketplace where buyers and content owners can discover programmatic inventory seamlessly curated to content metadata. This provides viewers with relevant ad experiences, advertisers with precision and transparency in ad placement, and platforms with enhanced ROI – a triple win for cloud-enabled CTV- led FAST advertising. We’re also excited to see how strategic partnerships will bring a more proactive approach to enhancing ad revenue and monetisation strategies for FAST. For Amagi’s part, we are collaborating with Imagine Communications to launch direct sales tools for FAST; Tag Srini KA Amagi Co-founder and chief revenue officer
Why should M&E pay more attention to FAST? FAST is rapidly replacing cable TV as the preferred global linear content programming experience, driven by changing viewer preferences towards subscription-free streaming services. We encourage the M&E industry to focus on FAST and recognise its growing popularity, the chance for ad-supported content, plus the supportive technological frame for efficient channel operations. What does the future hold for FAST? The future of FAST will be characterised by growth, innovation and increased personalisation. The FAST space will only continue expanding, enhancing viewer experiences through the use of advanced advertising solutions and data analytics. Particularly, Amagi is working towards a slateless, non-disruptive future in FAST. We believe personalisation is at the core of today’s advertising landscape and that it will predominantly drive the future of FAST. This includes the development of viewer-centric experiences catering to individual preferences and improving content discovery amid the growing number of channels. Moreover, our recent Global FAST Reports have indicated a steady growth in the FAST market in the US and globally, with significant increases in viewing hours and ad impressions – particularly in regions like India and genres like news. These findings show it is time for M&E to dive into FAST and explore its reach.
Video Systems to elevate monitoring capabilities for FAST channels; Cineverse to offer a joint end-to-end FAST kit for video service providers; and Applicaster to aid the creation, management and delivery of streaming applications across platforms. We’re eager to continue working with these partners and more. What are the key benefits to implementing FAST into your business strategy? The benefits are endless. Integrating FAST removes the cost barrier often associated with subscription models – widening audience accessibility and tapping into previously untapped demographics. FAST also facilitates a diversified content distribution strategy which leverages various entry points beyond O&O channels, ensuring engagement in third-party platforms and social media. It’s a dynamic tool that adapts to the changing audience behaviours, offering flexibility in content consumption. Furthermore, FAST serves as a robust marketing vehicle for premium content, maximising monetisation through repurposing and exclusive channels. By balancing engagement and lean-back strategies, it provides a curated, structured viewing experience that enhances content discoverability and enriches audience interaction. This turnkey distribution model optimises reach and revenue potential through targeted advertising and more visibility across platforms.
WE’RE EXCITED TO SEE HOW STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS WILL BRING A PROACTIVE APPROACH TO ENHANCING AD REVENUE AND MONETISATION
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