By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The founders of Chizcomm have exited Genius Brands over a contractual dispute and conflict over strategic vision. ChizComm was acquired in November of 2020 by Genius Brands, which has grown rapidly due to an aggressive acquisition strategy. At the time, all seemed like sweetness and light would prevail. This week, however, Chizcomm … [Read more...] about ChizComm Founders Out At Genius Brands Over Contract Dispute
Mergers & Acquisitions
Nike Sprints Into Metaverse Licensing With RTFKT Acquisition
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The footwear behemoth Nike is expanding its footprint in the metaverse, announcing the acquisition of digital collectibles company RTFKT. The terms of the deal were not disclosed. “This acquisition is another step that accelerates Nike’s digital transformation and allows us to serve athletes and creators at the intersection of sport, … [Read more...] about Nike Sprints Into Metaverse Licensing With RTFKT Acquisition
Acquisitions: Genius Brands Makes Smart Move on YFE Investment
Genius Brands just made another big move in its quest to become a major power in children and family entertainment, acquiring a major stake in Your Family Entertainment (YFE). The YFE transaction, alongside the recent announcement of the acquisition of WOW! Unlimited Media, would significantly expand the Genius Brands catalogue and give the company a streaming foothold outside … [Read more...] about Acquisitions: Genius Brands Makes Smart Move on YFE Investment
Mergers & Acquisitions: Major Investors Acquire Stake in Authentic Brands Group
There's big news for one of the giants in the global licensing industry, as two major investment funds have purchased a significant stake in Authentic Brands Group. ABG says the deal with CVC Capital Partners (CVC) and HPS Investment Partners (HPS) will provide the company with more support as it continues its rapid growth. The two funds have signed definitive agreements to … [Read more...] about Mergers & Acquisitions: Major Investors Acquire Stake in Authentic Brands Group
Mergers and Acquisitions: Moonbug Acquired By Unnamed Media Company
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Huge news for the children's animation studio Moonbug Entertainment, as the company has been acquired by a media venture run by former Disney execs Kevin Mayer and Tom Staggs. The valuation of the deal was not revealed by the media group, but people familiar with the negotiations have said it was worth between $2.75 billion to $3 billion when … [Read more...] about Mergers and Acquisitions: Moonbug Acquired By Unnamed Media Company
Not So Fast: DOJ Sues To Block Acquisition of Simon & Schuster
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The US Dept. of Justice has filed suit to block the $2.2 billion acquisition of publishing giant Simon & Schuster by Bertelsmann, the parent company of its larger rival Penguin Random House. DOJ lawyers allege the takeover of the ViacomCBS subsidiary “would result in substantial harm to authors,” reducing competition, and creating a single … [Read more...] about Not So Fast: DOJ Sues To Block Acquisition of Simon & Schuster
Genius Brands Announces “Transformational Acquisition” of WOW! Unlimited Media
Genius Brands International says it has completed the acquisition of WOW Unlimited Media in a deal the company says will create "a global animation and digital media powerhouse." The two companies announced Oct. 27 that they have entered into a definitive agreement whereby Genius Brands will acquire WOW! for approximately US$53 million in cash and stock. WOW! Unlimited Media … [Read more...] about Genius Brands Announces “Transformational Acquisition” of WOW! Unlimited Media
Netflix Acquires Video Game Developer
The streaming giant Netflix is fueling its push into the video game sector with the acquisition of critically acclaimed developer Night School Studio. The move is part of a much wider strategy by Netflix to diversify its revenues, particularly as the company faces increased competition from several well-funded companies in the streaming space, including Disney, Amazon, Apple, … [Read more...] about Netflix Acquires Video Game Developer
Trevco Acquires Women’s Apparel Brand Suburban Riot
Trevco has announced its acquisition of premium women’s fashion brand, Suburban Riot, known for its addictive core silhouettes infused with relevant, on-trend, designs and statements. Trevco says that, since its inception, Suburban Riot has made waves with celebrities, influencers, and fans online and at specialty retail. Trevco’s vision to enhance its women’s fashion … [Read more...] about Trevco Acquires Women’s Apparel Brand Suburban Riot
ABG Acquires Reebok From Adidas
Authentic Brands Group continues its aggressive acquisition strategy, announcing an agreement to buy the shoe brand Reebok from adidas. Adidas said Thursday it signed a deal to sell the sneaker and sportswear brand to Authentic Brands Group for up to 2.1 billion euros, or roughly $2.5 billion. Reebok had been struggling in recent years, and this acquisition will make it … [Read more...] about ABG Acquires Reebok From Adidas