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Good morning. It’s Thursday, September 19. In just two years, STAN has amassed 12 million users, positioning itself as a fast-growing player in the gaming space. In today’s feature, CEO Parth Chadha discusses STAN’s rapid rise, innovative monetization model, and plans for the future as it navigates the competitive landscape.
We also explore Nazara Technologies’ latest capital raise and its increased stake in the parent company of Sportskeeda, Australia’s new regulations targeting gambling mechanics in games, EA’s focus on AI, and more industry developments.
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STAN’s Rapid Rise: How the Gaming Platform Hit 12 Million Users and Monetized Engagement
In just two years, STAN has skyrocketed to 12 million users, securing its place as a fast-growing gaming platform. Launched in 2022 by Parth Chadha, Rahul Singh, Nauman Mulla, and Shubham Gupta, STAN started with a vision to foster gaming communities. Today, it’s more than just a platform—it’s a business powerhouse, catching the eye of industry giants like Nazara Technologies, which recently acquired a 15.86% stake for $2.2 million.
What’s behind this rapid rise? STAN’s unique approach to user engagement and monetization. By allowing creators to connect directly with audiences, introducing in-app currency for tournaments, and offering brand partnerships, STAN has unlocked new revenue streams for gamers and brands alike.
In our exclusive feature story, we spoke to CEO Parth Chadha to dive deep into STAN’s meteoric growth, its game-changing strategies for monetization, and what’s next for the platform. From fostering creator communities to empowering brands, we explore how STAN is reshaping the gaming landscape and positioning itself for future success. Don't miss the full story on STAN’s evolution and impact on the gaming world.
Nazara Technologies to Raise INR 900 Crores, Increases Stake in Sportskeeda
Indian gaming and sports media company Nazara Technologies Limited has announced plans to raise INR 900 crores through a preferential equity issue, marking its largest fundraising effort to date. The move, approved by the company’s board, awaits shareholder and regulatory clearance and aims to bolster Nazara’s acquisition strategy and fuel its business expansion in the competitive gaming landscape.
Key investors, including SBI Mutual Fund, Think Investments, and Discovery Investments, are expected to participate in the equity raise. The funds are intended to strengthen Nazara’s financial position as it seeks to capitalize on emerging growth opportunities. The equity issue will be governed by SEBI regulations, with shares subject to lock-in provisions.
In a parallel development, Nazara increased its ownership stake in Absolute Sports Pvt. Ltd., the parent company of Sportskeeda, to 91%. The company spent INR 145.5 crores to acquire an additional 19.35% stake, half of which was paid in cash, with the remainder settled in stock. Sportskeeda has become a significant player in the sports media sector, attracting millions of monthly users, particularly in India and the U.S.
Quick Bytes
F1 Driver Lando Norris to Debut a Themed Helmet Based on His Esports Team at Singapore GP
Formula One driver Lando Norris will sport a Quadrant-themed helmet during the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, showcasing the esports brand he founded in 2020. Departing from his usual fluorescent green, the helmet features a "liquid carbon" design, teasing Quadrant’s rebrand slated for early 2025. This is not Norris’ first Quadrant-inspired helmet; in 2022, he wore a Halo-themed design at the same race. Norris’ latest move follows Visa Cash App RB’s Yuki Tsunoda, who wore a VALORANT-themed helmet at the Belgian Grand Prix, highlighting the growing intersection between F1 and esports.
EA and Maxis Shift Focus from Sims 5 to Expanding Sims 4 and New Spin-Offs
EA and Maxis have halted development of The Sims 5 to focus on expanding The Sims 4 and creating new spin-off titles. EA announced that The Sims 4 will remain the franchise’s main platform, with no sequel planned, as players prefer to continue their existing gameplay progress. Maxis is developing new Sims games that will explore different gameplay experiences rather than traditional numbered titles. Future expansions for The Sims 4 are in the works, including a multiplayer update, while Project Rene, a multiplayer game, and Sims Labs, a testing platform for new features, are also part of EA’s roadmap.
Australia Tightens Rules on Simulated Gambling in Video Games
Australia will enforce stricter regulations on video games containing "simulated gambling" starting September 22, 2024, potentially imposing automatic 18+ age ratings on titles with gambling content, even if it's a minor feature, such as a casino mini-game in an RPG. The rules target both games focused entirely on gambling and those incorporating elements like slot machines or roulette simulators. Additionally, games with randomised in-game purchases or virtual currency tied to these purchases will now be classified under the "M" rating. These changes are part of Australia's broader efforts to regulate gambling mechanics in video games, including loot boxes.
EA Targets Growth, Margin Expansion Through 2027, Leans on AI and Sports
EA expects to "outpace market growth and drive margin expansion" through fiscal 2027, as outlined during its Investor Day. The company is on track to meet its Q2 2024 net bookings target and emphasized AI's role in boosting efficiency. EA highlighted its EA Sports brand, announcing a new football-focused app offering sports content, live data, and social interaction, set to launch in Spain later this year. Additionally, a "next-level" Battlefield experience is planned for 2025. CEO Andrew Wilson stressed the company's commitment to expanding engagement and leveraging new technology to grow its business and reach new audiences.
Did You Know
In 2007, as Rockstar Games was gearing up to release Grand Theft Auto IV, the company launched a unique promotion that invited fans to voice their opinions on what they believed was wrong with America. Rockstar set up a hotline where anyone could call in and rant about the state of the country, covering everything from politics to social issues and everyday frustrations.
The most entertaining and over-the-top calls were then featured on Grand Theft Auto IV’s in-game radio station, WKTT (We Know The Truth). This fictional station mirrored the format of real-world conservative talk radio, offering exaggerated commentary on American society, often with a satirical twist. The fan-generated rants became part of the immersive soundscape of Liberty City, GTA IV’s gritty version of New York City.
Quote of the Day
from AFK Gaming https://ift.tt/zTuQrnN
Hello, my name is Jack Sparrow. I'm a 50 year old self-employed Pirate from the Caribbean.
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