Business

Europe’s T.V. Business Model Gets Shaken Up by Streamers.

Published

3 years ago

April 3, 2022

Amid U.S. streamers still driving local market growth, producers of T.V. in the continent of Europe are trying to decide with the Hollywood studio model of business -in which Netflix and other streaming services have all rights to their content in exchange for full-financing and a cost in exchange for a fee — as well as the current European model of co-productions, which leaves independent producers with backend and allow the indie producers more creative control.

But this is beginning to change.

Due to the E.U.’s Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMS), which is currently in different states of being implemented across Europe, There are signs that the most prominent platforms are gradually becoming more flexible about structured agreements. In any case, it’s what we hope to see in the future.

The directive states that streaming companies must provide 30% of European content to European subscribers. However, on top of it, E.U. nations are introducing national-specific laws that require streaming services to directly return a certain percentage of their earnings in every European country in which they operate. Certain countries like France and Italy are currently making law changes that force Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus, and other streaming services to make local investments through independent producers. They will also ensure that the producers retain part of their rights.

“To begin with we welcome all of the opportunities by the streamers in every place in Europe,” claims Martin Moszkowicz, chairman of the government table of German influential Constantin Film. He explains that platforms like Netflix, Amazon Leading Movie, and Disney Plus “already are trading a fortune throughout Europe in local-language [content] and international English-language shows.”

A report released by Enders Analysis, a London-based company Enders Analysis says many Western makers “have come to prioritize streaming programs when begging their finest projects.” The report also noted that Netflix is considered the top producer of scripted European content in 2020ahead of the E.U.’s most significant public broadcasters. Disney currently has 60 European scripts waiting to be delivered in 2024.

However, while Moszkowicz is a fan of stream giants’ investment, his view is that their business model has become “ludicrous.”

“Number rights are retained; there is number upside,” he says. “There is nothing that we — and also the artists, the creative people that we employ — participate in the billions and billions of dollars of success that the streamers have.”

Moszkowicz states that German producers “will use AVMS as much as possible to get a bigger part of the pie” and believe that “ultimately we will succeed.”

Here’s a look at what’s happening in the conflict between the streaming giants and producers in the four most coveted continent European regions.

France

France in the E.U., where the government has recently approved the AVMS regulation, has set the way.

The new rules require that the streamers’ investments be put into agreements for independent productions where the rights return to French producers after 36 months.

This means that one-third of the money invested by the streamers will continue to be poured into agreements with French producers in flat-fee contracts, which do not permit the streamers to keep their rights.

Although it is a necessary regulation, the new rules raise questions about how these investment obligations will be used and who.

The rules allow competition between French producers for inclusion within the “two-thirds of the investment” corridor, according to French producer Alexandra Lebret. She is the director of the lobbying organization The European Makers Club.

“How may the streamers select that are the companies who will have a way to hold on to rights, and those that won’t?” she asks.

In March, Netflix made over EUR200 million ($220 million) in investment in France when it announced its 2024 lineup comprised of French originals, 10 of which are T.V. shows.

This includes “Standing-Up,” about France’s stand-up comedy scene. It was directed by “Call My Agent” creator Fanny Herrero.

Lebret notes that it isn’t yet understood what Netflix will select projects that can take advantage of the updated rules. He also mentions that Netflix’s most significant French production, “Lupin,” currently filming its third season, is being produced under a flat fee arrangement.

Germany

In Germany, which is the country where the Audiovisual Media Services Directive regulation is set to effect, there have been limited flexibilities by streamers when making deals for high-end productions.

“The more exciting the property, the greater your possibilities you will get through with this [structuring a package where rights return],” Moszkowicz explains. Moszkowicz.

One example of this is Constantin’s show “We Children From Bahnhof Zoo,” released via Amazon Prime Video in Germany.

It was also filmed in co-production with several partners, including the ITV-owned Cattleya in Italy and Fremantle managing international sales.

Constantin is currently putting together the premium television show “Smilla’s Sense of Snow,” which is based on Peter Hoeg’s Peter Hoeg thriller, for which Moszkowicz believes he’ll be able to put together an original co-prod that combines streaming partners as well as other kinds of broadcasters.

Moszkowicz emphasizes his belief that in pitching large-budget projects, the European government broadcasters and the pay-TV players offer an alternative that is viable to streamers.

In 2013 Constantin, along with veteran German TV executive Herbert Kloiber joined forces to create a company known as High-End Prods. to create event-driven programming specifically designed for Europe’s pay- and free-TV market.

Moszkowicz says that the sum of the sources of the pubcasters, including German’s ARD and ZDF and France’s TFI and the Italian RAI, as well as The BBC within the U.K., is far greater than the budgets of some of the streamers.

“It’s practically billions each year and they don’t get enough product, certainly since a lot of the really intriguing stuff gets ordered on a global foundation from the streamers,” the author says.

High End will soon be the first to announce its slate.

Spain

Even while AVMS isn’t yet fully implemented in Spain, there is a feeling that streamers have renounced their rights-of-all-rights rule.

“I think that at the beginning they tried to divide and conquer,” says director-producer Alvaro Longoria, who runs Spanish independent Morena Films.

However, other players are entering the market, including Disney, Apple, and Paramount.

“A lot of them realize that they have to be flexible if they want to get the best talent,” says the expert.

Longoria, whose Christmas-themed comedy film “Reyes vs. Santa” was acquired by Amazon in some countries and believed it significant to see the symbolism behind why Netflix has embraced “Parallel Mothers,” the most recent film by Pedro Almodovar — who was Cannes jury chair in 2017 was critical of the streaming company.

Netflix recently acquired the exclusive Latin American rights on “Parallel Mothers.”

“The whole business model is changing all the time and streamers are the first ones that are happy to adapt,” he says.

Italy

In Italy In Italy, in a country where AVMS deployment is amid a slowdown, there are some minor but essential signals that streamers are beginning to move.

“Some dynamics with the platforms are changing,” says Rosario Rinaldo, head of production company Cross Prods, owned by German’s Beta Film.

Cross is producing an edgy Amazon Italy Original drama, “Prisma,” for which it will be granted SVOD rights that will last for the rest of time

Rinaldo will be able to market “Prisma’s” free T.V. rights throughout the world, following the show exclusively shown on Amazon worldwide for a specified time.

“There is more attention toward producers’ needs during development,” Rosario claims. She cites the willingness of Netflix and Disney to collaborate on projects in conjunction with Cross.

The best instance of the Italian market for a significant U.S. player willing to work with Europe’s cooperative production strategy is HBO and RAI’s pubcaster “My Brilliant Friend,” the series based on Elena’s novels Ferrante.

In February, the 3rd installment in the show “Those Who Leave and Those Who Stay,” was aired on RAI with a record-breaking audience before it was released in the States with HBO and HBO Max.

“As a company, the look for forms of collaboration between numerous kinds of platforms and other broadcasters, including community broadcasters, is clearly element of what I’michael seeking,” says “My Brilliant Friend” company Lorenzo Mieli.{Recently|Lately}, Mieli, through his Fremantle-owned Apartment shingle, was capable of putting together the three-way co-prod between RAI, the Franco-German channel Arte, and Netflix.

They’re producing famous auteur Marco Bellocchio’s next T.V. show, “Eastern Notte,” about the assassination and kidnapping of the former Italian premier Aldo Moro by Red Brigades terrorists.

“The possibility of business models evolving — and disrupting monolithic models — is born from our ability as producers to propose projects that make this disruption worth it,” He states.

Business

How the Rise of AI and Automation is Impacting the Accounting Profession

Published

1 week ago

December 13, 2024

Anita Kantar

The adoption of advanced technologies is reshaping how businesses handle financial processes. Tools powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are transforming traditional workflows, introducing both opportunities and challenges for professionals in finance.

Accountants must now adapt to thrive in a landscape dominated by innovation.

Key Points:

Automation reduces manual data entry, boosting accuracy.
AI enables predictive insights for better decision-making.
Technology frees up time for strategic tasks.
Skills in data analysis and AI tools are essential.
Ethical considerations are critical for implementing automation.

Automation and Its Role in Streamlining Financial Tasks

Automation tools have become indispensable for reducing repetitive and time-intensive tasks. Functions such as payroll processing, tax filings, and financial reconciliations can now be completed faster and with fewer errors. Businesses looking to optimize their operations rely heavily on platforms like those recommended by Accountancy Capital for sourcing qualified professionals. For more information visit their website www.accountancycapital.co.uk.

By eliminating the burden of repetitive tasks, automation allows accountants to focus on advisory roles, providing higher-value services to clients. This shift highlights the need for upskilling to remain competitive in a changing landscape.

Source: rvnatech.com

How AI Improves Decision-Making in Financial Management

AI tools analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns and trends that humans might overlook. This capability enhances decision-making, particularly in areas like forecasting and risk assessment. For example:

Predictive analytics ─ AI can anticipate cash flow trends or market risks, giving businesses a proactive advantage.
Fraud detection ─ Algorithms flag irregularities in real-time, reducing financial losses.
Expense optimization ─ Automated systems recommend cost-saving measures based on historical spending patterns.

Leveraging such capabilities requires an understanding of technology, coupled with expertise in interpreting results for actionable insights.

Challenges Created by Technological Advancements

The rapid adoption of AI and automation poses challenges for professionals, including:

Skill gaps ─ Transitioning from traditional methods to tech-driven workflows require upskilling.
Job displacement ─ Roles focused on manual tasks are at risk of becoming obsolete.
Ethical concerns ─ Decision-making algorithms may introduce bias if not properly monitored.

Mitigating these challenges involves ongoing education and embracing continuous professional development.

Source: runeleven.com

Skills Accountants Must Develop to Stay Relevant

The changing landscape necessitates a shift in core competencies. Key skills include:

Proficiency in data analysis tools ─ Knowledge of software that integrates AI is crucial for staying relevant.
Soft skills ─ Communication and advisory capabilities remain vital, even as technology handles routine tasks.
Ethical awareness ─ Understanding the limitations and implications of technology ensures responsible implementation.

Combining traditional expertise with technological fluency is the key to long-term success.

Benefits of Automation for Accounting Firms

Automation tools deliver measurable benefits for firms, including:

Efficiency gains ─ Faster processing of routine functions, reducing turnaround times for clients.
Cost savings ─ Automated workflows lower operational expenses.
Scalability ─ Firms can handle larger client bases without increasing staff.

By adopting technology thoughtfully, firms can maintain a competitive edge while providing exceptional service.

Source: mcgowanprofessional.com

Ethical Implications of Adopting AI in Finance

AI’s growing role introduces ethical concerns that professionals must address. Bias in algorithms, privacy concerns, and transparency issues are common challenges. Firms must establish guidelines to ensure that AI tools align with ethical practices. Regular audits and accountability measures help maintain trust.

Future Trends and Opportunities in Financial Automation

Looking ahead, technologies like blockchain and machine learning will further transform financial practices. Accountants who embrace innovation will find opportunities in consulting, compliance, and strategic planning. Staying informed about emerging trends ensures readiness for new developments.

Conclusion

The rise of AI and automation is not just reshaping workflows but redefining the role of accountants altogether. By investing in upskilling and adopting tools thoughtfully, financial professionals can transition from traditional roles to strategic advisors, ensuring continued relevance in an evolving landscape.

Business

Lead Generation Hacks 2024 – Turning Cold Leads into Warm Fuzzies

Published

2 months ago

October 9, 2024

Tina Gondolin

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing, mastering lead generation has become paramount for businesses aiming to thrive in 2024. The age-old challenge of converting cold leads into enthusiastic prospects is not just an art; its a science that requires a fresh approach.

As we journey into this new year, innovative strategies are emerging to warm up those chilly connections that often leave sales teams cold. Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all tactics.

Instead, a mosaic of personalized outreach, compelling storytelling, and the strategic use of technology can transform a fleeting encounter into a meaningful relationship. In this article, we will explore clever hacks that not only spark interest but also nurture a genuine connection, turning distant leads into warm fuzzies—the kind of leads that not only convert but become champions for your brand.

Lets dive into the techniques that will help you turn the frosty silence of cold leads into a vibrant dialogue that resonates well into the future.

Crafting Compelling Content

Source: guaranteedseo.com

Crafting compelling content is the cornerstone of transforming cold leads into warm fuzzies. Imagine each piece you create as a personal conversation—rich, engaging, and tailored to resonate with your audience’s needs and aspirations.

Start by weaving in storytelling elements that evoke emotions, whether it’s a relatable challenge or a triumph that mirrors your audiences own journey. Use a mix of vivid imagery and succinct, punchy statements to maintain intrigue.

Pose questions that invite reflection, making your readers feel involved and valued. The goal is to create a tapestry of words that not only informs but inspires action—nudging the reader ever closer to giving you their trust, and ultimately, their business.

Remember, the magic lies in the unexpected twists and turns of your narrative, pulling them in and leaving them eager for more.

Personalized Outreach Strategies

Source: inc.com

Personalized outreach strategies can transform the mundane into the memorable, crafting connections that resonate deeply with your prospects. Imagine diving beyond the surface, uncovering the unique quirks and preferences of each lead.

Instead of sending a generic email, why not share a tailored message that references their recent project or highlights a common interest? This level of attention turns cold leads into warm fuzzies—a feeling of genuine connection and understanding. Utilize social media insights, or even simple Google searches—delve into their world to strike a chord that compels engagement.

When your outreach feels like a conversation between friends rather than a sales pitch, you open the door to lasting relationships that flourish. Create that spark, and watch how leads become advocates for your brand.

Innovative Email Campaign Techniques

Source: entrepreneur.com

In the rapidly evolving landscape of digital marketing, innovative email campaign techniques have emerged as game-changers for turning cold leads into enthusiastic prospects. Imagine crafting personalized, attention-grabbing subject lines that not only spark curiosity but also align with the unique pain points of your audience.

Consider employing dynamic content that adapts in real-time, showcasing tailored offers or insights based on recipient behavior and preferences. Storytelling is another powerful tool; weave narratives that resonate emotionally, allowing recipients to feel a genuine connection to your brand.

Incorporating interactive elements, such as surveys or quizzes, can foster engagement and encourage replies, transforming a one-sided communication into a lively dialogue. Finally, leveraging automation with precision can ensure timely follow-ups that feel personal rather than robotic, striking the sweet spot between efficiency and warmth.

By weaving these techniques together, your email campaigns can flourish, nurturing a relationship that ignites interest and cultivates loyalty.

Conclusion

In conclusion, transforming cold leads into warm prospects is not only achievable but essential in todays competitive landscape. By employing innovative strategies that prioritize personalization, value-driven content, and strategic follow-ups, businesses can cultivate meaningful relationships that foster trust and engagement.

As we move into 2024, embracing these lead generation hacks will not only streamline your sales process but also enrich the overall experience for potential customers, paving the way for lasting connections that ultimately drive growth and success. Start implementing these techniques today, and watch as cold leads evolve into warm fuzzies that will benefit your business for years to come.

Business

How to Attract Your First Clients to Your Mold Remediation Business

Published

4 months ago

August 28, 2024

Tina Gondolin

Starting a new mold remediation business can be both exciting and daunting. You have the expertise and the ambition, but how do you turn that passion into real clients? Attracting your first customers is a crucial step that can set the tone for your business’s future.

It’s not just about having the right tools or knowledge; it’s about weaving a compelling narrative that resonates with potential clients. In a world where trust and reliability are paramount, being visible and approachable is essential.

Let’s explore various strategies, from leveraging local marketing tactics to harnessing the power of word-of-mouth referrals. With the right approach, you’ll transform your fledgling business into a go-to choice for mold remediation in your community, one satisfied customer at a time.

Build a Professional Brand

Building a professional brand is essential for establishing credibility in the competitive field of mold remediation. Start by crafting a compelling narrative that highlights your expertise and genuine commitment to health and safety.

This narrative should weave together your experience, certifications, and the values that drive your work. Next, invest time in creating a polished online presence—think well-designed websites, engaging social media profiles, and insightful content that speaks directly to your target audience’s concerns about mold issues.

Don’t underestimate the power of customer testimonials; they serve as social proof, significantly enhancing trust. Additionally, consider local networking opportunities, as face-to-face interactions with potential clients can elevate your brand’s visibility and reputation.

In a world saturated with options, a strong professional brand doesn’t just set you apart—it draws clients eagerly to your doorstep, ready to engage your services.

Networking and Community Engagement

Networking and community engagement are essential lifelines for launching your mold remediation business, as they bridge the gap between you and potential clients. Attend local home improvement expos and trade shows, where you can showcase your expertise and services.

But don’t stop there—collaborate with real estate agents, insurance brokers, and home inspectors, as these professionals often encounter clients in need of your specialized services. Sponsor community events or workshops focused on home maintenance to demonstrate your commitment to public health and safety, while simultaneously positioning yourself as a trusted resource.

Utilize social media platforms to connect with homeowners, sharing informative content that educates them about mold risks and preventive measures. Remember, building relationships is not merely transactional; it’s about cultivating trust within your community, which can lead to word-of-mouth referrals and long-lasting client relationships.

By actively engaging in your community, you will not only raise awareness of your business but also become a go-to expert in mold remediation.

Monitor and Adjust Your Strategies

To truly attract your first clients in the competitive field of mold remediation, it’s essential to continuously monitor and adjust your strategies. This means not only tracking the effectiveness of your marketing efforts—be it online ads, social media campaigns, or local networking events—but also staying attuned to emerging trends in the industry and changing client needs.

Examine customer feedback meticulously; it can provide invaluable insights. Are potential clients consistently asking about certain services or expressing concerns? Use that information to adapt your offerings.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different approaches! Perhaps a referral program could incentivize word-of-mouth, or hosting an informational webinar might establish your authority in the field. The key here is flexibility—an agile mindset will allow you to pivot swiftly and capitalize on new opportunities, ensuring that your mold remediation business remains relevant and attractive to those seeking your expertise.

Conclusion

In conclusion, successfully attracting your first clients to your mold remediation business requires a strategic approach that encompasses building a strong online presence, leveraging word-of-mouth referrals, and establishing partnerships with related services, such as a reputable Mold Inspection Company. By focusing on customer education, showcasing your expertise, and providing exceptional service, you can differentiate yourself in this competitive market.

Remember, the foundation of your business lies in trust and reliability; as you build your reputation, your client base will grow, paving the way for long-term success in the mold remediation industry.