In this episode of "MediaTalk," host Mike Reynolds delves into the changing ways that brands — including news publishers, podcasters, enterprises and retailers — are connecting with consumers amidst the chaos of information overload, much of which is influenced by AI. Joining him are Mike Donoghue and Sarah Schmidt from Subtext, a platform that enables bilateral, two-way communication between publishers, creators and their audiences through text messaging. Joining the episode are S&P Global Market Intelligence 451 Research analysts Raúl Castañón and Zach Ciampa. Together, the group discusses the challenges brands face due to media fragmentation and algorithm shifts on social platforms, emphasizing the power of SMS with its uniquely high open rate. The conversation also touches on the role of AI, highlighting its potential for understanding consumer sentiment while stressing the importance of maintaining a human touch in interactions. The episode concludes with insights on how brands can avoid being perceived as spam and the growing significance of personalized messaging in the digital age.

S&P Global Market Intelligence was on the ground for CES 2025 in Las Vegas, the Consumer Technology Association’s annual trade show. S&P Global Market Intelligence Kagan analyst Neil Barbour, who focuses on consumer tech, and MI tech policy reporter Stefan Modrich join MediaTalk host Mike Reynolds to share their experiences and discoveries from the biggest tech industry event of the year. From NVIDIA's groundbreaking AI advancements to the evolution of smart glasses and intriguing smart home technologies, this episode covers the cutting-edge trends shaping the tech landscape. Explore the impact of AI in advertising, the rise of repair kits for consumer devices, and innovative health tech products. Discover how cities across the globe are positioning themselves as tech hubs and learn about the regulatory challenges facing Big Tech under a new US administration.

The new year promises to bring further changes to the streaming, broadband and wireless markets as incumbent operators and new entrants turn to next-generation technologies to compete for subscribers. MediaTalk host Mike Reynolds is joined by a trio of S&P Global Market Intelligence Kagan analysts: Seth Shafer explores how major players like Netflix and Amazon are navigating the ad-supported video-on-demand landscape; John Fletcher reveals the growing consumer satisfaction with fixed wireless services and the implications for traditional cable operators; and Lynette Luna emphasizes the significance of standalone 5G as a gateway to enhanced services and the pivotal role of AI in optimizing network operations. Tune in to learn what trends to watch in 2025.

Join Mike Reynolds and a trio of S&P Global Market Intelligence Kagan analysts in the latest episode of "MediaTalk," where they dive into the future of broadcast stations, cable networks and the sports business for 2025. As the media landscape continues to evolve, this episode offers critical insights into the potential for M&A activity, the impact of new FCC regulations, and the ongoing shift from traditional TV to streaming platforms. Discover how major players like ESPN, Amazon and NBC Sports are reshaping the sports viewing experience, including the upcoming launch of ESPN's direct-to-consumer flagship product and its implications for cord-cutting. The episode also explores new ventures like the indoor virtual golf league and the three-on-three women's basketball gambit, Unrivaled. Tune in for an episode packed with valuable information and predictions to get you ready for the New Year.

Streaming, broadband and wireless used to be three distinct subsectors within media and communications. But increasingly, they are interconnected. In 2024, cable operators, led by Charter, began bundling direct-to-consumer streaming offerings into their video and broadband services. At the same time, cable operators continued to push into wireless. Meanwhile, streaming services prioritized profits over expanding content libraries, and wireless carriers sought to add lines among existing subscribers. All three subsectors showed signs of maturity in 2024, but they also found new ways to grow, setting the stage for fresh innovation in 2025. 

With 2024 winding to a close, MediaTalk invites three S&P Global Market Intelligence Kagan analysts to talk us through the stories that shaped the media and entertainment market. From broadcast's ascent to the evolving dynamics of cable networks to the impact of more ad-supported streaming services to the near disintegration of the regional sports network business model, 2024 was a year that brought a great deal of transformation. More, it set the stage for further changes in 2025. Listen to the full episode to stay informed and gain valuable perspectives on the future of media.

MediaTalk host Mike Reynolds and fellow S&P Global Market Intelligence reporter Iuri Struta discuss the future of technology and innovation, exploring key insights from the recent Web Summit held in Lisbon. The summit brought together over 70,000 attendees and covered the evolving landscape of AI, humanoid robots, and the competitive dynamics of the tech industry. Iuri shares his observations on the open-source vs. closed-source debate in AI, the surge of new startups challenging established players like Google, and the exciting developments in robotics. Iuri also highlights the importance of data integration in maximizing AI's potential across various sectors. This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and business.

As the holiday season approaches, consumer spending is set to take center stage in 2024. Insights from the latest MediaTalk podcast highlight a cautiously optimistic outlook, with increased confidence among consumers across all income groups. Despite lingering concerns about inflation and rising debt, many consumers are ready to embrace holiday shopping with a renewed spirit as they not only buy gifts but also leverage holiday sales for everyday necessities. With e-commerce continuing to thrive, the integration of omnichannel shopping experiences is becoming crucial. Learn how consumers plan to balance holiday shopping between online and in-store this year. Happy Holidays!

Dive into the dynamic world of sports betting with our latest episode of MediaTalk. Join host Mike Reynolds as he chats with Dave Forman, vice president of research at the American Gaming Association, to explore the rapid evolution of legal sports betting since the Supreme Court's pivotal 2018 decision. With 39 states now embracing this booming industry, discover how Missouri's recent legalization could impact the market and the anticipated revenue growth as we head into a busy sports season. From the explosive rise of online betting to the implications of new legislation, this episode offers crucial insights for investors and enthusiasts alike. Don't miss out on understanding the future of sports betting in America.

MediaTalk host Mike Reynolds chats with S&P Global Market Intelligence Kagan Principal Analyst Justin Nielson about the evolving landscape of the US TV and radio broadcast industry. Nielson unpacks his forecast for total TV station ad revenue to hit $25 billion this year, bolstered by political advertising and major events like the Paris Olympics. However, the radio sector faces challenges, struggling to recover from pandemic impacts while competing with streaming giants. Discover insights on local vs. national advertising trends, the rise of digital marketing, and the future of retransmission consent revenues. Tune in now!