UAE: News Media Man

UAE: News

Markets, Cryptos and Culture

March 2, 2026

Australia and World

A.I Newsfeed

The fast-moving conflict across the Middle East is heightening investor anxiety and strengthening the case for safe-haven trades such as Treasuries, gold and the Swiss franc, while oil prices are set to soar.

Macro traders said all eyes will be on energy markets when trading fully re-opens on Monday, with early indications of volatility also expected when the US dollar and other currencies start to trade in Australia. The possibility of prolonged turmoil in the Middle East and the ripple effects of higher oil prices are giving money managers fresh reasons to sell equities and shift into safety.

Futures are pointing to a fall of 0.2 per cent at the open for the Australian sharemarket, but this was set before the US attack on Iran on Saturday (Australian time). The Australian dollar was trading at US70.65¢ at 5.26am AEDT.

Traders will be adopting the strategy of “haven first, ask questions later,” according to John Briggs, head of US rates strategy at Natixis. “The scale of the attacks and Iranian retaliation is larger than what the market expected,” he said.

Briggs said Treasuries are likely to extend moves from Friday, when short-term yields sank to levels last seen in 2022. Others are watching energy chokepoints. Roundhill Financial’s Dave Mazza said he’s closely tracking what happens to traffic at the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway handling about a quarter of the world’s seaborne oil trade.

“This is about Hormuz risk, not retaliation. If shipping stays open, stocks can work through it,” he said. “If it doesn’t, all bets are off.”

Brent crude jumped 10 per cent to about $US80 a barrel over the counter on Sunday, oil traders said, while analysts predicted that prices could climb as high as $US100 after US and Israeli strikes on Iran plunged the Middle East into a new war.

The global oil benchmark has rallied this year and reached $US73 a barrel on Friday for its highest since July, buoyed by growing concern over the potential attacks that arrived a day later. Futures trading is closed over the weekend.

“While the military attacks are themselves supportive for oil prices, the key factor here is the closing of the Strait of Hormuz,” said Ajay Parmar, director of energy and refining at ICIS.

More than 20 per cent of global oil is moved through the Strait of Hormuz.

“We expect prices to open (after the weekend) much closer to $US100 a barrel and perhaps exceed that level if we see a prolonged outage of the Strait,” Parmar said.

US stocks sank Friday as Wall Street kept punishing companies that could become losers in the artificial-intelligence revolution. A surprisingly discouraging update on inflation also hurt the market, while oil prices climbed with worries about tensions between the United States and Iran.

The S&P 500 fell 0.4 per cent and staggered to the finish of just its second losing month in the last 10. The Dow Jones dropped 521 points, or 1.1 per cent, the Nasdaq composite sank 0.9 per cent.

The losses came as investors returned to knocking down software companies and other businesses they suspect could get supplanted by AI-powered competitors.

Block, the company behind Cash App, Square and other businesses, gave a potential signal of what AI could do after Chair Jack Dorsey said it’s cutting its workforce by nearly half. That’s even though he said 2025 was a strong year for the company, which is sending more cash to shareholders through stock buybacks.

“Intelligence tools have changed what it means to build and run a company,” Dorsey said in a letter to investors while announcing Block’s latest profit results. “We’re already seeing it internally. A significantly smaller team, using the tools we’re building, can do more and do it better.”

The co-founder of Twitter also said, “I don’t think we’re early to this realisation. I think most companies are late. Within the next year, I believe the majority of companies will reach the same conclusion and make similar structural changes.”

Block is cutting more than 4000 jobs from its workforce of over 10,000. Its stock jumped 16.8 per cent after making the announcement, while announcing its latest quarterly results.

Capable AI tools that can replace humans could perhaps replace entire companies, or at least eat away at their profit margins. Fears about AI disruption have caused sudden and swift sell-offs for stocks seen as potentially under threat, and they’ve rolled through industries as different as trucking logistics and legal services.

Salesforce, whose platform helps customers manage their relationships with clients, fell 2.3 per cent. It gave back much of its 4 per cent gain from the day before after reporting a better profit than analysts expected.

The pain has also hit private-equity companies that have bought or lent money to software companies, which need to withstand the AI threat to keep repaying those loans. Apollo Global Management dropped 8.6 per cent for the one of the sharpest losses in the S&P 500. Blue Owl Capital, which has been a target for investors because of the loans to it’s made to the software industry, fell 6 per cent.

Even the companies currently seeing their revenue and profit soar because of AI-related demand are under pressure. Nvidia fell 4.2 per cent and was the heaviest weight on the US stock market. A day earlier, it dropped to its worst loss since last spring even though it reported a better profit than analysts expected and forecast more in revenue for the current quarter.

On the winning side of Wall Street was Netflix, which climbed 13.8 per cent after walking away from its bid to buy Warner Bros. Discovery’s studio and streaming business. That put Skydance-owned Paramount in a position to take over its Hollywood rival.

Paramount Skydance shares jumped 20.8 per cent, while Warner Bros. Discovery fell 2.2 per cent.

Also hurting the broad market was a report showing that inflation at the US wholesale level was at 2.9 per cent last month, much higher than the 1.6 per cent that economists expected. (A.I Newsfeed)

News

Numbers Double Check

Aust $: $0.7041 USD (down $0.0068 USD)
Iron Ore: $98.65 USD (down $0.50 USD)
Oil: $67.02 USD (up $1.64 USD)
Gold: $5,278.10 USD (up $86.25 USD)
Silver 93.817 +5.55
Copper: $6.0610 USD (up $0.0300 USD)
BTC: $65,629.97 -1.71%
Dow Jones: 48,977.92 (down 521.28 points)

News

A.I News

Firmus in $600m tech giant deal, with eyes on Facebook owner Meta

Firmus Technologies has entered into a deal with US technology firm Nvidia and Australian data centre operator CDC Data Centres to deploy 18,400 Nvidia chips on behalf of an unnamed tech company at a facility in Melbourne. The facility is part of Project Southgate, which was announced last year and which will see the three companies construct 'AI factories' across Australia over a number of years at a forecast cost of more than $70 billion. The new deal is valued at around $660 million and comes as Firmus Technologies gets ready for an IPO this year. (RMS)

News

A.I News (Australia)

Canva to draw line through AI unit

Tech company Canva has announced a major restructure of its artificial-intelligence video unit, Leonardo AI, with a large number of staff there expected to loose their jobs. The restructure comes only 18 months after Canva purchased Leonardo in a deal thought to be worth $370 million, and is in contrast to Canva's 'upbeat' announcement last week of its purchase of two new AI ventures, marketing algorithm start-up MangoAI and animation software business Cavalry. (RMS)

News

Most workers unaware of AI surveillance by employers

A report from the UTS Human Technology Institute has found that 91 per cent of employers surveyed state that they use software to monitor the location of remote workers. However, only nine per cent of workers believe such technology is deployed in their own roles, and Professor Edward Santow from UTS says "that gap is alarming". Meanwhile, researchers claim that tools used explicitly for surveillance are not the only risk to employee privacy, with wellness and mental health services and products potentially another privacy risk.

News

News Media (Australia)

News Corp leader's call to arms: 'it's make or break'

News Corp Australasia's executive chairman Michael Miller is optimistic about the future of public interest journalism. However, he contends that factors such as AI and the regulation of large technology companies means that 2026 is set to be a "make or break" year for Australia's media sector. Miller has called for the federal government to prioritise investment in the "infrastructure of public discourse", arguing that a commitment to Australian journalism is a commitment to a "stronger Australia". He adds that while media companies should strike deals with AI companies, Australia's copyright laws should not be watered down. He has also urged the government to legislate the much-delayed news bargaining incentive, noting that many local media groups are struggling at present. (RMS)

News

The Lead Up

Feb 27

Branding stoush: Why Sky's new name is already under fire

Sky News Australia revealed on Friday that it will be rebranded as News24. Sources at the ABC have indicated that the announcement "raised eyebrows" among senior executives of the public broadcaster, given that its 24-hour news channel was originally called ABC News 24 and it owns the trademark rights to this branding. Intellectual property lawyer Jane Rawlings says it would be difficult for Sky News Australia to trademark its new name because it uses generic terms and is similar to the ABC's trademark. A South Africa-based news website also uses the News24 branding, and its logo also has the same colours as Sky News Australia's proposed new logo. (RMS)

News

Search/News Media

Google, Meta take aim at Australian plan for tech giants to pay for journalism

The US National Foreign Trade Council has labelled the federal government's News Bargaining Incentive a tax, and something that possibly breaches Australia's free trade agreement with the US. The News Bargaining Incentive aims to force big tech companies like Google and Meta to financially support Australian media by what the government refers to as a "charge and offset scheme", with the Council's complaints about the proposal contained in a submission was made to Treasury in December. News of the submission comes as the federal government tries to secure exemptions from US President Donald Trump's tariffs on imports, which are set to rise for Australia from 10 to 15 per cent. (RMS)

News

Sports Business

V'landys forecasts $1b revenue soon for NRL

The National Rugby League has reported that it had total revenue of $845.6 million for the year ending 30 September, an increase of $100.7 million over the previous year. The NRL's net profit rose from $62.3 million to $64.9 million, while net assets were up 20 per cent to $387.3 million. The release of its latest results comes as NRL CEO Andrew Abdo and Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V'landys prepare for talks with television networks and streaming services about a new broadcast deal, while V'landys says he expects the NRL to surpass $1 billion in revenue in the next few years. (RMS)

News

Biz/Markets

Reporting season delivers strongest profit results since 2021, lifting sharemarket

The Australian sharemarket has enjoyed its best reporting season since 2021, which has helped to lift what is still viewed as an expensive bourse. With 80 per cent of scheduled companies by market capitalisation having reported as of last week, aggregate earnings per share for the 2026 financial year is forecast to rise around 12 per cent after low single-digit falls in the past three years. Companies that have performed well on the release of their results have included BHP and JB Hi-Fi, while those that have been punished include Wesfarmers and Reliance Worldwide. (RMS)

News

MinRes turnaround in full swing as flagship iron ore project performs

West Australian mining company Mineral Resources released its results for the first half of the financial year on Friday, with MinRes reporting an after-tax profit of $573 million. It represented a big turnaround on the $807 million loss posted a year ago, which was announced at a time when MinRes MD and founder Chris Ellison was under scrutiny over the disclosure of a decade-long tax evasion scheme and his misuse of company resources. Ellison says its latest result was the "the strongest in the company's history", while it reaffirmed its full-year volume and cost guidance. (RMS)

News

Simon Trott awarded Rio Tinto bonus as execs lose out to Magnificent Seven on TSR award

The base pay of Rio Tinto CEO Simon Trott will rise from from Stg1.34m ($2.55m) to Stg1.41m from 1 March after the mining company's board awarded him a five per cent pay rise. Trott also received Stg600,000 in relocation expenses to cover the cost from moving from his home in Perth to London, along with receiving short term incentive payments in cash and shares of $1.34m for his four months as CEO and $1.25m for the eight months he spent as head of Rio's WA iron ore operations. (RMS)

News

Rio Tinto boss lobbied Chalmers to save $11b fuel tax rebate

The federal government is under pressure to scrap the $11 billion fuel tax rebate scheme that is used by mining companies such as Rio Tinto and BHP. Unions and environment groups argue that removing the rebate scheme would force the resources sector to decarbonise at a faster rate, along with saving taxpayer's money. However, a letter released under freedom of information rules has revealed that Rio's then-chief executive of Australia, Kellie Parker, lobbied Treasurer Jim Chalmers to maintain the rebate scheme in the May budget, with Parker claiming Rio would not be in a position to deploy an electric haul truck fleet until the early 2030s. (RMS)

News

Landmark deal commits South Australian gas to home market

Oil and gas producer Santos has done a deal with the South Australian government that will see all the gas it currently exports from that state instead retained in SA in what Premier Peter Malinauskas has labelled a "state strategic reserve". Announcing the deal ahead of his government going into caretaker mode in the lead-up to the SA state election on 21 March, Malinauskas said the gas that would normally go to Japan or South Korea to advance their economies, will now be used to advance the SA economy. The deal between Santos and the SA government comes amid growing pressure on Santos's GLNG export venture in Queensland to end purchases of gas from the domestic market to meet its export contracts. (RMS)

News

Social Media/Media

X Launches Disclosure Tools to Fight Hidden Paid Promotions

Next week, X rolls out new features to make it easier to label paid promotions, with account suspensions for those who skip disclosure. Bier announced this while warning posters promoting Kalshi to add labels or face bans, targeting spam in crypto, prediction markets, and clipping agencies. Reactions range from crypto users celebrating a spammer purge with memes to concerns about clear rules, all while creators like Cynthia joke they're safe since they skip the paychecks.

Pop Culture/Gaming/Wrestling

WWE 2K26 Reveals Retro Entrances of CM Punk and Randy Savage

WWE Games shared first looks at WWE 2K26, recreating classic entrances like CM Punk's 2003 indie debut and Macho Man Randy Savage's 1998 WCW Nitro gear with Queen Sherri by his side. Iyo Sky's feathered entrance drew a thrilled 'Oh yeah! So cool!' from the champion herself. The game launches March 13 on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Nintendo Switch 2, with Punk on the cover, over 400 stars, and new modes like thumbtack Hell in a Cell. Fans praised the nostalgic details while hoping for era-specific animations.

News

Pop Culture/Sports/Boxing

Conor Benn Signs $15 Million Deal with Dana White's Zuffa Boxing

Rising boxer Conor Benn, 29, inked a one-fight deal with Zuffa Boxing, the January 2026 venture from UFC president Dana White and Saudi backer Turki Alalshikh, backed by Riyadh Season and streaming on Paramount+. Fresh off avenging his loss to Chris Eubank Jr., Benn thanked Eddie Hearn for a decade of support—including loans and defense during his 2022 drug test suspension—but called Zuffa's offer impossible to refuse. Hearn expressed devastation, saying he misjudged Benn's loyalty after providing title shots and financial help, while Eubank Jr. mocked both and White insulted Hearn directly.

News Flashback

Pop Culture/Wrestling

Jey Uso, Bronson Reed, and Original El Grande Americano Set for Triple Threat Elimination Chamber Qualifier on WWE Raw

WWE announced a triple threat match on the next episode of Raw featuring Jey Uso, Bronson Reed, and Original El Grande Americano to qualify for the Elimination Chamber. The card also includes Brock Lesnar's return, a tribute to AJ Styles, World Champion CM Punk's appearance, and a women's qualifier with Raquel Rodriguez, Kairi Sane, and IYO SKY.

News

WWE Stars Clap Back at Tom Brady's 'Cute' Wrestling Jab

On Logan Paul's podcast earlier this month, seven-time NFL champ Tom Brady dismissed pro wrestling as 'cute' amid Paul's boasts about his WWE feats. Women's World Champion Liv Morgan, fresh off her 2026 Royal Rumble win, countered that WWE athletes could handle football but questioned if football stars could match wrestling's demands—no offseasons, global travel, and high-flying action. Randy Orton upped the ante, saying he'd love to hit Brady with an RKO, while CM Punk embraced the 'cute' label; the banter builds excitement ahead of Elimination Chamber this weekend and WrestleMania 42 in April.

News

Boxing

Ryan Garcia Dominates Barrios to Win WBC Welterweight Title

At T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday night, the 27-year-old southpaw outlanded Barrios in every round, sweeping all 12 on media cards for a unanimous decision victory with scores of 119-108, 120-107, and 118-109. It was Garcia's first major world title, coming after ups and downs like his 2024 win over Devin Haney that turned into a no-contest due to a positive ostarine test. Post-fight, he posed backstage mimicking Kobe Bryant's iconic trophy photo, called out Shakur Stevenson, and drew shade from Haney over past PED issues despite passing pre-fight tests.

News

Wrestling/Gaming

Mr. Iguana's Custom Wrestler Becomes Official in WWE 2K26 with AAA Stars

WWE Games revealed AAA Lucha Libre stars like Mr. Iguana, La Yesca, Psycho Clown, and Lady Flammer for Ringside Pass Season 1 DLC, available with early access on March 6, 2026. Mr. Iguana, created as a custom persona back in 2007, joins partners in dynamic poses with glowing effects and props. The additions blend Mexico's wrestling heritage with WWE action, alongside staples like Charlotte Flair and DX-era Shawn Michaels, as the full game launches March 13 on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Nintendo Switch 2.

News

Best Quotes Of The Day

Media Man

Cryptocurrency, Finance and World

"Volatility is Satoshi’s gift to the faithful." - Michael Saylor

"Bitcoin is a tool for freeing humanity from oligarchs and tyrants, dressed up as a get-rich-quick scheme." — Naval Ravikant

"We have elected to put our money and faith in a mathematical framework that is free of politics and human error." — Tyler Winklevoss

"You can't stop things like Bitcoin. It will be everywhere, and the world will have to readjust. World governments will have to readjust." — John McAfee

"Bitcoin is the most important invention in the history of the world since the Internet." — Roger Ver

"Cryptocurrency is such a powerful concept that it can almost overturn governments." — Charles Lee

"In the future, national currencies will become obsolete. Bitcoin will become the single global currency." — Jack Dorsey

News

Pop Culture

Dream Matches: Fantasy Booking

Bulls vs Bears
Crypto King vs Mr World Bank
Citizens vs NWO
Neo vs Agent Smith
John McAfee vs You Know Who!
TKO vs Naysayers
Jake Paul, Polymarket and BETR vs Naysayers
Pro Boxing vs Newspaper Reports
VKM vs The World
Paul Bros vs Mainstream Wokes
Mr X vs Mr Bluesky
Chris Jericho vs Dirtsheets
NFL vs everyone
Zuffa vs MVP
Netflix vs World
Meta vs Australia
White Light vs Dark Matter
Lexis King vs NIL's (WWE NXT)
Volk vs Naysayers (UFC: Sydney, Australia)
Brock Lesnar vs Everyone! (WWE Royal Rumble)
Zuffa Boxing vs Golden Boy
Zuffa vs Matchroom
Netflix Sports vs The World
Beast vs Flakes
The Vision vs Mr Injury and The Masked Man aka Seth Rollins

Media Man

Hotel/Casino/Resort News

UAE casino update: Wynn Al Marjan nears structural completion ahead of 2027 opening

November 2025

305-meter tower reaches 70th floor with 73% of façade installed ahead of spring 2027 opening

Wynn Resorts’ 305-meter tower at Al Marjan Island is approaching completion of the building’s structure, expected in late November 2025 as the UAE’s first integrated resort takes shape ahead of its 2027 opening.

Developing news story ...

News

Wynn Al Marjan

Wynn Al Marjan Island: UAE's First Integrated Gaming Resort

Wynn Al Marjan Island is an ambitious luxury integrated resort under construction by Wynn Resorts in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. Positioned as the centerpiece of the man-made Al Marjan Island archipelago, it promises to blend high-end hospitality, entertainment, and gaming in a pristine beachfront setting overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Developed in partnership with Marjan and RAK Hospitality Holding, the project represents a $5.1 billion investment and is slated to open in early 2027, marking the UAE's first casino resort.

Key Features and Amenities

Accommodations: 1,542 rooms and suites, including 22 exclusive marina-side Villa Estates and the ultra-luxurious Enclave—a "destination within a destination" on the top floors of the 1,000-foot (305-meter) tower. Enclave emphasizes opulence with bespoke service, tranquil palettes of platinum, sapphire, and gold, and panoramic Gulf views.

Dining and Nightlife: 24 restaurants and lounges, with early announcements including a two-level French-American steakhouse by chef Alain Ducasse and Delilah, a glamorous supper club from Wynn Las Vegas. Additional venues will cater to diverse global tastes.

Entertainment and Gaming: A theater, nightlife experiences, state-of-the-art events center, and a dedicated gaming area—the first licensed casino in the UAE, granted to Wynn in 2024 by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA). This gives Wynn a temporary monopoly on gaming in the region.

Wellness and Leisure: A 3.6-hectare poolscape, five-star spa, luxury shopping esplanade, and a full marina for yacht access.

Design and Sustainability: Overseen by Wynn Design & Development, the resort features airy, garden-like public spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows for natural light, and culturally sensitive details to appeal to an international clientele.

Location and Accessibility

The 62-hectare site juts into the Arabian Gulf, with white-sand beaches and views of the Hajar Mountains. It's about 50 minutes from Dubai International Airport and just 15 minutes from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, which is undergoing upgrades including a new VVIP terminal to support the emirate's tourism goal of 3.5 million visitors annually by 2030.

Construction and Timeline

Groundbreaking occurred in early 2023, with the structure currently around 40 meters tall (as of mid-2024 updates). The tower is expected to be topped off in Q4 2025, with full operations by spring 2027.

Financing was secured by February 2025, and there's already strong demand for retail space. Wynn has also acquired Wynn Mayfair in London (rebranded in June 2025) to attract British high-rollers.

This development is poised to elevate Ras Al Khaimah as a global tourism hub, drawing comparisons to Las Vegas while respecting local culture.

For the latest visuals and updates, check Wynn's official site or their YouTube channel. If you're planning a visit post-opening, it's already generating buzz among investors and luxury travelers. (Grok)

Media Man: Gaming, lifestyle and resort paradise for many.

News

Recent developments in the UAE's casino and gaming sector include:

Wynn Al Marjan Island: This $5.1 billion resort in Ras Al Khaimah, set to open in early 2027, is nearly 60% complete and will be the UAE’s first legal casino. It features a 224,000 sq. ft. main casino and a private “sky gaming” floor, targeting Middle Eastern tourists with a culturally sensitive approach. Analysts estimate it could generate up to $1.4 billion in annual gross gaming revenue.

UAE Lottery Partnership: EQL Games has partnered with The Game LLC, operators of the UAE’s first federally licensed lottery, to launch iLottery games like Marble Run and Lucky Lagoon, offering prizes up to AED 1.25 million. This collaboration aims to enhance the UAE’s iLottery platform with diverse, interactive games.Regulatory Developments:

The UAE’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) signed an MOU with New Jersey’s Division of Gaming Enforcement to strengthen regulations, focusing on responsible gambling and cybersecurity. The GCGRA, operational since 2024, has licensed Wynn Resorts and The Game LLC, with plans to maintain a single official lottery.

Market Potential: A survey indicates 19% of UAE adults are interested in skill-based card games, and 23% in online betting, suggesting a gaming market potential comparable to the UK. The Wynn resort is expected to boost tourism in Ras Al Khaimah and neighboring emirates.These initiatives reflect the UAE’s strategic push to diversify its economy through regulated gaming, despite cultural sensitivities rooted in Islamic traditions.

Sports And Entertainment Broadcasting News

Riyadh Season signs DAZN deal

October 9, 2024

Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, has announced that Riyadh Season has entered into a multi-year partnership with DAZN, which will see the sports entertainment platform become the official exclusive worldwide and co-exclusive MENA broadcaster of all of its sports and entertainment events.

Building on its successful promotion and delivery of the 2023 edition of Riyadh Season, DAZN will be a host broadcaster for all events, with a commitment to enhancing the proposition with “significant investment in production and innovation”, helping to further develop the Season’s reputation for staging events and experiences with some of the biggest names from entertainment and sport.

Riyadh Season content will appear on the front page of the DAZN app globally, featuring interactive features, while fans will also be able to access documentaries, news, trailers, interviews, as well as buy tickets and merchandise directly on the platform.

In addition, DAZN will be the global distributor and exclusive OTT broadcaster of Riyadh Season’s boxing events for outside the MENA region and collaborate on innovative features for boxing fans.

Combat Sports

UFC 308 UFC 307

UFC 308 (Wikipedia)

UFC 307 (Wikipedia)

UFC News via Grok; X's Grok Helps Fans, News Publishers And Sports Promoters Win The Grapple With The Web: Media Man

News

UFC UFC 308 Anticipation

UFC 308, scheduled for next month in Abu Dhabi, has generated significant excitement among fans following the release of its official poster. The event features notable fighters including Khamzat Chimaev, whose participation is of particular interest due to his past health challenges. The poster has been widely praised for its design, with many considering it one of the best in UFC history, although the absence of women's fights has sparked some debate. Overall, UFC 308 is anticipated to be a highlight of the year, highlighted by its strong lineup and the return to Abu Dhabi. (Grok)

News

UFC 308 Poster Reception

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to host UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi on October 26, 2024, marking another significant international event for the organization. The event has sparked considerable excitement among MMA fans, primarily due to the release of its official poster, which has received widespread acclaim for its design. Fans and commentators have praised the poster online, with many expressing high expectations for the fight card, suggesting it could be one of the best of the year. The anticipation for UFC 308 not only highlights the event's high-profile nature but also underscores UFC's ongoing global expansion and its strong presence in the United Arab Emirates. (Grok)

News

Anticipation for UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to host UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi on October 26, 2024, generating significant excitement among fans. The event's official poster has been praised for its design, with many fans and commentators expressing high enthusiasm for the upcoming fights. Discussions have highlighted anticipation for performances by fighters like Khamzat Chimaev, with some fans expressing concerns about potential withdrawals due to health issues. The event is viewed as a showcase of UFC's international presence, particularly in the UAE, and is considered by some to potentially be one of the best fight cards of the year. (Grok)

Official Websites

UFC
http://ufc.com

UFC 308
http://ufc.com/event/ufc-308

UFC YouTube
http://youtube.com/UFC

Media Man: Strong thumbs up to UFC and Grok.

Promotions

UFC® FIGHT NIGHT: Sandhagen vs Nurmagomedov (Visit Abu Ddhabi)

UFC 308 is an upcoming mixed martial arts event produced by the Ultimate Fighting Championship that will take place on October 26, 2024, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (Wikipedia)

Riyadh Season extends partnership with UFC
NEWS, PRESS RELEASES
May 8, 2024
(General Entertainment Authority)

The Saudi National Manual for Assets and Facilities Management Released by EXPRO

It will serve as a comprehensive reference enhancing quality, efficiency, and sustainability in Saudi Arabia Government entities.

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA, June 5, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ -- The National Manual for Assets and Facilities Management (NMA&FM) represents a comprehensive reference that enhances quality, efficiency, and sustainability in the management of assets and facilities in Saudi government entities. This reflects the value of the citizens’ combined efforts to establish a unified reference in this field, which is considered the first of its kind on the national and regional levels.

The manual, which is prepared by the Government Expenditure & Projects Efficiency Authority “EXPRO” combined effort with success partners from the concerned government entities, aims to unify the different procedures for managing assets and public facilities, ensuring compliance with local legislation, and building asset management systems by registering and evaluating them to support optimal decision-making. The goal is to extend the life cycle of assets, manage public facilities effectively and efficiently based on the principle of cost and quality and relying on continuous improvement, and preserve resources by activating the concept of financial planning for asset and facility management and effective management of supply chains and contracts.

The manual serves as a technical reference for public entities on how to utilize each entity’s asset and facility management resources impeccably and manage them efficiently. It also covers the entire business life cycle of assets and facilities, starting with planning, constructing, and receiving the project, through contracting and purchasing stages, to operating and maintaining and ending with the decision to stop using and dispose of the facility or asset.

The implementation of this manual has documented success stories in various government entities, Including the Hygiene Performance Contracts transformation Initiative For Riyadh City in cooperation with Riyadh Region Municipality. This initiative resulted in the preparation and development of 16 integrated performance contract brochures for the hygiene of Riyadh city, with an estimated value of over 6 billion riyals, and the development of 11 performance indicators to improve service implementation and quality.

To increase operational efficiency and service quality at the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, a system for facilities management was established according to best practices. This included automating assets and facilities management processes, creating an indicator board with over 10 indicators, and setting a standard for classifying dams based on urgency and risk levels according to the global best practices. Additionally, a complete asset registry for dams was built, and the computerized operations and maintenance system was activated.

The collaboration with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development led to an increase in operating efficiency and improvement in the quality of service by establishing a facilities management system based on best practices and automating five main and supportive processes for managing assets and facilities. This reduced operational and maintenance costs and increased beneficiary satisfaction rates.

Furthermore, the cooperation with King Saud University has improved operational efficiency and service quality. The university’s assets were counted and inventoried, the effectiveness of the computerized asset management program system was enhanced, and it was linked to other systems at the university in line with the requirements of the national manual. Additionally, an occupational health and safety policy was developed and approved, measurement indicators were identified, and seven procedures for operation and maintenance were implemented. These measures contributed to accelerating and facilitating the operation and field maintenance processes, as well as merging with inventory management to raise the efficiency of purchasing operations.

In addition, Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University has succeeded in developing and launching a computerized system for managing assets and facilities. This system includes the operation automation and maintenance processes and ordering spare parts through computerised systems, increasing spending efficiency on annual operation and maintenance costs. It also accelerated service provision, monitored implementation, and provided data and technical and financial indicator panels to support decision-makers. This cooperation resulted in a qualitative leap in the satisfaction rate of users of university facilities, as well as the complete automation of the inventory and spare parts management process.

The Riyadh Region Municipality developed 13 integrated performance contract brochures for the operation and maintenance of Riyadh’s roads, with an estimated value of 2 billion riyals, and established nine performance indicators to measure the service performance, implementation, and quality.

EXPRO has made the manual available to its partners from public entities, their asset and facility departments, and specialized contractors and consulting offices via the website. EXPRO is committed to providing partners with all necessary knowledge for the manual's application through a training package for each volume, on-the-job training, and experiential learning.

The manual consists of 17 volumes upon which the asset and facilities management methodology is based. Each volume addresses a specific function of asset and facilities management and takes into account the best global practices for accomplishing these functions. It is reviewed and updated periodically based on accumulated experiences and the contributions of a committee of government entities’ representatives, as well as global developments in the field of asset and facilities management.

The first volume includes an introduction to the manual, covering the calibres and guidelines necessary for management. The second volume is devoted to managing assets and the business requirements while achieving a balance between risks, performance and cost to ensure the proper use of assets. It also focuses on effectively monitoring assets during their life cycle to guarantee proper utilization, as well as relying on specialized asset management systems and software.

The third volume explains how assessment, as an organizational process, is useful in determining an asset's condition and establishing an appropriate life cycle. This supports the proper direction of the asset and subsequent maintenance activities, ultimately achieving the required value.

The fourth volume includes guidelines for defining the financial policy framework, including planning the asset’s life cycle with regard to the necessary funding to maintain its operation at the required service level. It also covers the integration of strategic asset management with financial planning procedures, which helps in making decisions between investment and funding options and determining the achievable service level.

The fifth volume focuses on managing the processes of planning, organizing, and work control, as well as maximizing the use of resources to manage facilities and assets. This is based on written procedures that support the preservation of resources and limit any shortcomings or inconsistencies in the services provided, thus helping to avoid a negative impact on the entity’s reputation. It also emphasizes aspects that must be taken into account in future planning and development.

The sixth volume is concerned with managing maintenance by applying best practices to develop tools for planning maintenance and applying methodologies in their management. This contributes to determining the design life of the assets and the continuity of their services to maintain the safe and reliable operation of the assets. Additionally, it focuses on optimizing the benefits of its operational processes.

The seventh volume guides the procedures for adjusting the work and managing the requests related to maintenance activities. It prioritizes and plans these activities, fixes malfunctions, estimates costs, schedules work, and oversees testing and closure.

The supply chain management volume focuses on the strategic planning, implementation, control, and monitoring of supply chain activities, such as warehouse and inventory management. Effective supply chain management contributes to achieving optimal value and promotes competitive infrastructure as well as logistics services worldwide while measuring performance and linking supply to demand.

The Contract Management volume focuses on planning, implementing, managing and supplying asset and facility contracts that ensure legal compliance, meet required service levels, maximize financial and operational performance, and reduce potential risks.

The tenth volume focuses on safety, health, and the environment by providing a guideline to the procedures and controls relied upon to protect employees, visitors, public property, and the environment. It includes procedures for monitoring compliance, risk assessment, safety reviews, and safety training.

The eleventh volume presents the core pillars of quality management, which include monitoring daily work, conducting audits to measure the service provider’s compliance with its contractual obligations, and addressing inconsistencies. The effective application of quality management promotes strategies, policies, procedures, and plans.

The manual makers devoted a volume to managing risks and reducing the potential impact of events that may hinder the stakeholder or user from achieving asset and facilities management objectives, with the possibility of applying risk management to all comprehensive management procedures.

The thirteenth volume guides and directs users on the procedures and principles that must be applied to establish effective document management. Document and records management services are useful for obtaining, circulating and retrieving approved information when needed.

Volume Fourteen pays attention to emergency management, strategic organization of personnel, and allocation of resources to reduce the impact of emergencies and restore operations effectively.

The performance control volume explains the foundations of operating and managing operations and activities in accordance with the entity’s mission, vision, goals and requirements. This allows changes to be made when needed in order to maintain the consistency and effectiveness of performance to achieve the desired business objectives.

The asset and facility management of construction project volume identifies the procedures required during the construction stages to ensure the best results of operation and maintenance throughout the life cycle of the asset’s construction or restoration project.

The Energy Management and Sustainability Guideline outlines the optimal means for the strategic application of energy efficiency in buildings, in addition to sustainability, which represents an approach to integrating the environment, human needs, and costs.

EXPRO has recently launched the “Evolution of Tradition” awareness campaign to publicize the importance of the National Manual for Assets and Facilities Management. This includes a series of multimedia explaining the importance of following the manual’s guidelines to organize and facilitate the work of government entities, achieving many benefits on the national level in terms of efficiency and quality. These have a direct impact on performance of the entity and citizens. The campaign presents some government entities’ success stories following the implementation of Manual. Expenditure efficiency teams within government entities also organize activities to publicize the importance and content of the manual.

For more details, contact Turki Bukhari, Executive vice president, A&FM at media@expro.gov.sa.

Learn more at: https://expro.gov.sa

Turki Bukhari
Expenditure & Projects Efficiency Authority (EXPRO)

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Euro, Gold, Crypto and more via Media Man and FX Pro

A strong current account surplus may not help euro

The eurozone's current account surplus climbed to a six-month high of 31.9bn in December. Analysts, on average, had expected a decline to 20.3 bn from 22.5 bn the previous month. The current level was seen in the eurozone during the relatively benign pre-Covid period and sometime before Natural Gas prices spiked in the second half of 2021.

The normalisation of the surplus is good news for the single currency, as it means more net capital inflows into the region. But this growth has been fuelled by falling imports, which can be the result of lower commodity and energy prices (which is a very good thing), but also partly indicative of a slowdown in domestic demand. This threatens to translate into economic contraction in the coming months.

The euro area experienced periods of severe import contraction in late 2008 and early 2010, and in both cases, the economy experienced a severe downturn. Back in 2008, all this was accompanied by the collapse of the euro.

Gold

Gold rises but within a downward channel

Gold rallied for the fourth consecutive session to reach $2023, recovering almost all the losses suffered the week before on the back of the inflation report. Gold's ability to rally suggests continued domestic demand, as some investors are clearly rushing to buy back any losses.

At the same time, however, we note that since the beginning of the year, gold has been characterised by solid selloffs on the news, forming a smooth downtrend. In the context of this downtrend, a rise to $2040-2045, which is the upper boundary of the bearish range, looks quite acceptable.

The area around $2035 - the highs of two weeks ago - also appears to be a crucial intermediate level. Confident buying from this level would be the first important signal that the recent correction is over and that gold is ready to make a fresh assault on the highs.

Much more important, however, will be the behaviour of gold as it approaches the $2050 level, where the reversal of the decline in late January took place.

Consolidation at this level would confirm the breakdown of the downtrend and set the stage for a move towards $2100 and the subsequent renewal of historic highs.

However, as long as gold is trading within the downtrend, there is a greater chance of a breakdown or even an acceleration of the downtrend.

Among the fundamental factors, the potential for growth could be provided by the fall in the dollar if Fed officials show a softening of their position, bringing the start of interest rate cuts closer.

On the bearish side, equities could come under pressure following the optimistic rally in the tech giants and the news of a sharp slowdown in economic activity. We also do not rule out the possibility that the recent support measures for the Chinese stock market and property sector will cool demand for gold as a safe-haven for investors from that part of the world.

Cryptocurrency

Crypto market growth halted amid capital inflows

Market picture

The crypto market has corrected 0.46% in the last 24 hours, fluctuating within a narrow range without a clear direction. Bitcoin is down 1% but up 3.7% over seven days, Ethereum is flat for the day but up 10.6% over the week. The top coins are mixed with BNB +2% and Solana -2.5%.

Bitcoin is currently drawing its fourth daily candle with opening and closing levels close to each other. Such sideways consolidations are characteristic of strong bull markets, as opposed to corrective pullbacks on smoother rallies.

Ethereum hit local highs on rumours of a positive regulatory decision before the end of March. Bloomberg analyst James Seyffarth bet 4 ETH that the SEC will not approve a spot Ethereum ETF next month.

According to data from CoinShares, investment in crypto funds rose by a record $2.452 billion last week, following inflows of $1.116 billion the previous week.
Bitcoin investments increased by $2.424 billion, Ethereum by $21 million, Cardano lost $6 million, and Solana lost $1.6 million.

Since the beginning of the year, crypto funds have seen inflows of an impressive $5.2 billion, with total AUM rising to $67 billion, the highest since December 2021.

News background

Bitcoin will see institutional support in the next three to six months, according to Coinbase. Bitcoin ETFs could eventually become a major competitor to gold funds.
According to IntoTheBlock, there is an 85% chance that Bitcoin will reach a new all-time high within the next six months. Five factors could contribute to this: the halving of the price, ETFs, monetary easing, the US election, and companies accumulating BTC as part of their treasuries.

Former CIA contractor Edward Snowden, who has been living in Russia since 2013, called bitcoin the most significant achievement of the financial system in the entire existence of money and means of exchange.

Amberdata admitted that Ethereum will outpace Bitcoin in terms of growth due to more constructive deflationary policies. The supply of ETH has been decreasing since September 2022, thanks to the update of The Merge, as well as the implementation of a mechanism to burn part of the commissions. During this time, around 0.36 million ETH, or 0.3% of the total supply of 120 million coins, have been removed from circulation.

Via Roy Morgan Research and Media Man social media

Copper, gold, and Bitcoin rise; Iron ore and oil fall; ASX to fall in response to selling on Wall Street; US vetoes Arab-backed UN resolution demanding ceasefire in Gaza; Assange's lawyers warn that he risks 'flagrant denial of justice' if he is tried in US

Latest updates on Key Economic Indicators

21 February 2024

Roy Morgan Summary

Australian Dollar: $0.6550 USD (up 0.0011 USD)
Iron Ore Mar Spot Price (SGX): $120.85 USD (down $6.40 USD)

Oil Price (WTI): $78.27 USD (down $1.02 USD)

Gold Price: $2,024.37 USD (up $6.43 USD)

Copper Price (CME): $3.8595 (up $0.0465 USD)

Bitcoin: $52,059.35 (up 0.35% in last 24 hours)

New report reveals Roy Morgan is one of Australia's leading data companies - with in-depth information on millions of Australians based on their Helix Personas

Market Research Update

20 February 2024

Roy Morgan Summary

Roy Morgan leads the way as one of Australia's leading data companies. A special in-depth report into Australia's leading data companies interviewed Roy Morgan CEO Michele Levine and Executive Chairman Gary Morgan about the role the company plays in compiling data and building profiles of different Australians. One of Roy Morgan's key products is 'Helix Personas' which profiles people under headings such as "young and platinum", "smart money", "cautious conservatives", "fair go", "working hard" and nearly 50 other personas. For example, the "young and platinum" group love their mobile devices and are "always on the hunt for the shiny, new and cool" and "making the rent". Their income is around the $64,000 a year mark and they can often be found "living a conventional life centred around family".

Roy Morgan CEO Michele Levine confirmed that the Helix Personas market segments are based on statistical information, not data from individual people. "It's totally ethical. Unlike Facebook or any of these things, it's not any particular individual", Roy Morgan's chief executive Michele Levine, said.: 38,582.12 at 3.22pm NY time (down 45.87 points on Friday's close)

Roy Morgan wins three-year contract to deliver domestic tourism statistics for Austrade

21 February 2024

Roy Morgan Summary

From 2025, Roy Morgan will provide Austrade with the world's best practice survey methodology, big data integration and modelling techniques to deliver accurate domestic tourism statistics. Roy Morgan has reimagined the future of domestic tourism statistics to move Austrade and its stakeholders to the forefront of tourism intelligence with a new platform that will drive the future of Australia's tourism industry, which is estimated to be worth in excess of $160 billion. Portia Morgan, the Head of Client Services at Roy Morgan, says that using face-to-face interviewing, which is the gold-standard for surveying the population, enhanced with big data and cutting-edge data science techniques, Roy Morgan will be delivering a future-proofed system that will be cost effective, reliable, and accurate. She adds that Roy Morgan has been delivering survey-based tourism insights via its Holiday Tracking Survey for 20+ years and the company is thrilled to be working with Austrade and the broader industry to provide a deeper of understanding of how many people are travelling, where they go, what they do and how they spend their valuable tourism dollars.

Anti-mining PM pushes BHP's cash offshore

Roy Morgan Summary

It is somewhat hypocritical of the federal government to flag possible support for Australia's nickel industry, given that Labor's anti-mining legislation may jeopardise the expansion of BHP's copper operations in South Australia. BHP is still likely to proceed with an expansion, but the previously touted investment of between $10bn and $15bn is now only a 50 per cent chance. The new labour laws in the government's industrial relations reforms mean that BHP is now more likely to redirect much of this capital investment to its criticals minerals projects in other countries; rival miner Rio Tinto is already doing this.

More than 2.7 million New Zealanders now read newspapers and magazine audiences surge to over 1.7 million

21 February 2024

Roy Morgan has released its readership results for New Zealand's newspapers and magazines for the 12 months to December 2023. The data shows that 2.73 million New Zealanders aged 14+ (64.4%) now read or access newspapers in an average 7-day period via print or online (website or app) platforms. In addition, 1.71 million New Zealanders aged 14+ (40.3%) read magazines, whether in print or online either via the web or an app. The New Zealand Herald is still the nation's most widely-read publication, with a total cross-platform audience of 1,720,000 in the 12 months to June 2023 - almost five times as many as the second placed Dominion Post with a readership of 341,000. Meanwhile, New Zealand's most widely read magazine is still the driving magazine AA Directions, which had an average issue readership of 379,000 during the year to December (an increase of 63,000 on a year ago).

These are the latest findings from the Roy Morgan New Zealand Single Source survey of 6,254 New Zealanders aged 14+ over the 12 months to December 2023.

New report reveals Roy Morgan is one of Australia's leading data companies - with in-depth information on millions of Australians based on their Helix Personas

Market Research Update

20 February 2024

Roy Morgan Summary

(Credit: Roy Morgan Research)

Roy Morgan Summary

One of Roy Morgan's key products is 'Helix Personas' which profiles people under headings such as "young and platinum", "smart money", "cautious conservatives", "fair go", "working hard" and nearly 50 other personas. For example, the "young and platinum" group love their mobile devices and are "always on the hunt for the shiny, new and cool" and "making the rent". Their income is around the $64,000 a year mark and they can often be found "living a conventional life centred around family". Roy Morgan CEO Michele Levine confirmed that the Helix Personas market segments are based on statistical information, not data from individual people. "It's totally ethical. Unlike Facebook or any of these things, it's not any particular individual", Roy Morgan's chief executive Michele Levine, said.

(Credit: Roy Morgan Research)

The Saudi National Manual for Assets and Facilities Management Released by EXPRO

It will serve as a comprehensive reference enhancing quality, efficiency, and sustainability in Saudi Arabia Government entities.

Volume Fourteen pays attention to emergency management, strategic organization of personnel, and allocation of resources to reduce the impact of emergencies and restore operations effectively.

For more details, contact Turki Bukhari, Executive vice president, A&FM at media@expro.gov.sa.

Learn more at: https://expro.gov.sa

Turki Bukhari
Expenditure & Projects Efficiency Authority (EXPRO)

Media Man

Warrner Bros

Profile

In 2010, the Warner Bros. Pictures Group broke the all-time industry worldwide box office record with receipts of $4.814 billion, which surpassed the prior record of $4.010 billion (set by the Studio in 2009). Warner Bros. also established a new industry benchmark for the international box office with a total of $2.93 billion (marking a record third time of crossing the $2 billion threshold) and retained its leading domestic box office ranking with receipts of $1.884 billion. 2010 also marked the 10th consecutive year Warner Bros. Pictures passed the billion dollar mark at both the domestic and international box offices. Warner Home Video was, once again, the industry’s leader, with an overall 20.6 percent marketshare in total DVD and Blu-ray sales. The companies comprising the Warner Bros. Television Group and Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group remain category leaders, working across all platforms and outlets, and are trendsetters in the digital realm with video-on-demand (transaction and ad-supported), branded channels, original content, anti-piracy technology and broadband and wireless destinations.

The Warner Bros. Pictures Group brings together the Studio’s motion picture production, marketing and distribution operations into a single entity. The Group, which includes Warner Bros. Pictures and Warner Bros. Pictures International, was formed to streamline the Studio’s film production process and bring those businesses’ organizational structures in line with Warner Bros.’ television and home entertainment operations.

Warner Bros. Pictures produces and distributes a wide-ranging slate of some 18-22 films each year, employing a business paradigm that mitigates risk while maximizing productivity and capital. Warner Bros. Pictures either fully finances or co-finances the films it produces and maintains worldwide distribution rights. It also monetizes its distribution and marketing operations by distributing films that are totally financed and produced by third-parties. The Studio’s 2011 slate includes “Sucker Punch,” “The Hangover Part II,” “Green Lantern,” “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2,” “Happy Feet 2” and “Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows.”

Warner Bros. Pictures International is a global leader in the marketing and distribution of feature films, operating offices in more than 30 countries and releasing films in over 120 international territories, either directly to theaters or in conjunction with partner companies and co-ventures.

New Line Cinema, part of Warner Bros. Entertainment since 2008, coordinates its development, production, marketing, distribution and business affairs activities with Warner Bros. Pictures to maximize film performance and operating efficiencies. Highlights of New Line’s 2011 release slate, distributed by Warner Bros., include “Horrible Bosses,” “Final Destination 5,” “A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas” and “New Year’s Eve.”

The Warner Bros. Television Group oversees and grows the entire portfolio of Warner Bros.’ television businesses, including worldwide production, traditional and digital distribution, and broadcasting. In the traditional television arena, WBTVG produces primetime and cable (Warner Bros. Television and Warner Horizon Television), first-run syndication (Telepictures Productions) and animated (Warner Bros. Animation) programming, which is distributed worldwide by two category-leading distribution arms/operations (Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution and Warner Bros. International Television Distribution).

Among the primetime series produced by divisions of the Warner Bros. Television Group are “Two and a Half Men,” “The Big Bang Theory,” “The Mentalist,” “Mike & Molly,” “Fringe,” “Gossip Girl,” “The Vampire Diaries,” “Nikita,” “The Middle,” “Southland,” “The Closer,” “Rizzoli & Isles,” “Supernatural,” “The Bachelor,” “Pretty Little Liars,” “Randy Jackson Presents America’s Best Dance Crew” and many more. Also produced by the company are first-run syndicated programs such as “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” “TMZ” and “Extra,” among others, as well as animated shows “Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated” and “Young Justice.”

WBTVG is an innovative leader in developing new business models for the evolving television landscape, including ad-supported video-on-demand, broadband and wireless, and has digital distribution agreements in place with all of the broadcast networks. Internationally, the Studio is one of the world’s largest distributors of feature films, television programs and animation to the worldwide television marketplace, licensing some 50,000 hours of television programming, including more than 6,000 feature films and 50 current series, dubbed or subtitled in more than 40 languages, to telecasters and cablecasters in more than 175 countries.

WBTVG provides original shortform programming for the broadband and wireless marketplace through its Studio 2.0 digital venture, and its digital media sales unit is devoted specifically to multiplatform domestic advertiser sales for both broadband and wireless. WBTVG continues its strategic expansion into digital production and distribution with the launch of several advertiser-supported entertainment destinations, including TheWB.com, a premium, video-on-demand interactive and personalized network and KidsWB.com, a premium destination built around youth-oriented immersive entertainment.

The final component of WBTVG is broadcasting: The CW Television Network, launched (in partnership with CBS) in September 2006 with quality, diverse programming, is targeted to the 18–34 audience.

Warner Bros. Animation’s combined classic and contemporary library currently boasts 14,000 animated episodes and shorts which air on domestic broadcast networks, as well as cable networks and in direct-to-video releases around the world. The classic library includes such brands as Looney Tunes, Merrie Melodies, Hanna-Barbera and Ruby-Spears as well as such beloved characters as Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Sylvester, Tweety, Taz, Tom and Jerry, Popeye, Batman, Superman, the Flintstones, the Jetsons and Scooby-Doo.

Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group brings together Warner Bros. Entertainment’s home video (Warner Home Video), digital distribution (Warner Bros. Digital Distribution), interactive entertainment/videogames (Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment), direct-to-consumer production (Warner Premiere), technical operations (Warner Bros. Technical Operations) and anti-piracy (Warner Bros. Anti-Piracy Operations) businesses in order to maximize current and next-generation distribution scenarios. WBHEG is responsible for the global distribution of content through DVD, electronic sell-through and transactional VOD, and delivery of theatrical content to wireless and online channels. It is also a significant worldwide publisher for both internal and third party videogame titles.

In 2010, Warner Home Video dominated the U.S. market as the number one company in total sell-through video (DVD and Blu-ray combined) with 20.6% marketshare, theatrical catalog, TV on DVD, non-theatrical family and animation, Blu-ray and VOD. WHV has been the number one studio in overall DVD sales 14 consecutive years, and is also the leading studio in the international home video space.

With more than 3,700 active licensees worldwide, Warner Bros. Consumer Products licenses the rights to names, likenesses and logos for all of the intellectual properties in Warner Bros. Entertainment’s vast film and television library. With a global network of offices and agents in key regions throughout the world, including North America, Latin America, Asia and Europe, WBCP maintains an ongoing commitment to expand and build the power of its core brands’ recognition in the international marketplace through strong and creative merchandising, promotional marketing and retail programs.

DC Entertainment’s DC Comics has been in continuous publication for more than 60 years, and is the leading comic book publisher in the industry and the creator of some of the world’s most recognized icons. DC’s characters continue to headline blockbuster feature films, live-action and animated television series, direct-to-video releases, collectors’ books, online entertainment, digital publishing, countless licensing and marketing arrangements and, most recently, graphic novels. DC continues to attract new readers and fans all over the world with its signature characters Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and Justice League leading the way.

Warner Bros. International Cinemas provides a true state-of-the-art movie experience to audiences in Japan with more than 60 multiplex cinemas and more than 600 screens internationally. One of the pioneers in multiplex development for the international marketplace, WBIC is continually exploring new markets for expansion. (Credit: Warner Bros. Entertainment)

Press Release

09 August 2010

MICROGAMING SET TO LAUNCH THE LORD OF THE RINGS™: THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING ONLINE VIDEO SLOT GAME

First Title to Utilize Proprietary Cinematic Spins™ Technology Allowing Players to Experience the Film with Every Spin

ISLE OF MAN – Microgaming today announced the imminent launch of a new flagship game, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring Online Video Slot Game. This slot game is the first to utilise Microgaming’s new Cinematic Spins™ technology, allowing gamers to see clips from the films with every spin.

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring is a new online slot game that is part of a multi-year licensing agreement Microgaming signed with Warner Bros. Digital Distribution in 2009. The company is developing a series of cutting-edge, graphic rich video slots based on this popular movie trilogy and will use animation material, themes, and characters, from the trilogy of The Lord of the Rings™ motion pictures that include The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers and The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. These online slot games will be available to adults only in countries where online gaming is permitted.

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring is the first online video slot to use Microgaming’s Cinematic Spins™ state-of-the-art gaming technology. This allows movie clips to act as moving backgrounds behind the reels during spins providing players an unprecedented level of excitement and immersion.

Win sequences and expanding wilds also use cinematic clips, instead of traditional animated graphics. The slots feature famous scenes from the film including Ringwraiths during the attack at Weathertop, Balrog in the Mines of Moria, and Uruk-hai in the woods of Middle-earth. Players will also enjoy seeing characters from the films that include Frodo, Aragorn, Saruman and the deadly Black Riders.

Roger Raatgever, CEO Microgaming comments: “Microgaming has always been ahead of the curve with innovative offerings, but this game really does push the boundaries of what an online slot can do. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring looks and feels like an extension of the big screen film experience and we’re confident that our operators will see a great deal of demand from their players, when the game is released. This is an important deal for Microgaming and highlights our commitment to partner with the right brands, at the right time. The Lord of the Rings is one of the most successful and well loved brands on the planet and we are excited about combining this widespread appeal with Microgaming’s groundbreaking software.”

The Lord of the Rings Trilogy generated $3 billion in worldwide box office receipts and was nominated for a total of 30 Academy Awards®; of which they won 17, including Best Picture.

- Ends -
Notes to editors:
*Cinematic Spins is a trademark held by Microgaming

© 2010 New Line Productions, Inc. All rights reserved. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King and the names of the characters, items, events and places therein are trademarks of The Saul Zaentz Company d/b/a Middle-earth Enterprises under license to New Line Productions, Inc.

For further information please contact:
Duncan Skehens / Laura Moss/ Lyndsay Haywood
Lansons Communications
020 7490 8828
DuncanS@lansons.com / LauraM@lansons.com / LyndsayH@lansons.com
Warner Bros. Digital Distribution

Peter Binazeski
818-977-5701
peter.binazeski@warnerbros.com
About Microgaming (www.microgaming.com)
Since the company developed the first true online Casino software over a decade ago, it has led the industry in providing innovative, reliable gaming solutions. Thanks to an unrivalled R&D programme, that averages 60 games per year and a unique ‘partnership’ approach to working with operators; Microgaming software powers over 160 market-leading online gaming sites.
The company’s front and back-end software supports multi-player, multi-language games - over 500 of them, all uniquely branded and provides platforms for land-based and wireless gaming. Microgaming powers the world’s largest Progressive Jackpot Network and has paid out over €265million. In May 2009 it created the biggest ever online jackpot winner with a single payment win of €6.37m.

As a founding member of eCOGRA, Microgaming is at the forefront of an initiative focused on setting the highest standards in the gaming industry, and leads in the areas of fair gaming, responsible operator conduct and player protection. Microgaming has been awarded eCOGRA’s Certified Software Seal following a rigorous onsite assessment to ensure that the development, implementation and maintenance of the software is representative of industry best practice standards Microgaming licensees are therefore eligible to apply for the eCOGRA Safe & Fair Seal.

About Warner Bros. Digital Distribution
Warner Bros. Digital Distribution (WBDD) manages Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group's (WBHEG) electronic distribution over existing, new and emerging digital platforms, including pay-per-view, electronic sell-through, video-on-demand, wireless and more. WBDD also oversees the WBHEG's worldwide digital strategy, partnerships in digital services and emerging new clients and business activities in the digital space.

News

2009

With Time Warner sitting on $7 billion in cash, the Marvel deal has ignited rumours of a second wave of consolidation in the media industry. Dream Works Animation, home of Shrek, is seen as a potential takeover candidate, as is MGM with its huge library of classic films. The games firms Electronic Arts and Take Two Interactive, with its Grand Theft Auto franchise, are also being touted as potential buys.

Profile

Warner Bros. Entertainment, Inc. (also known as Warner Bros. Pictures, or simply Warner Bros.) is one of the world's largest producers of film and television entertainment.

It is a subsidiary of Time Warner, with its headquarters in Burbank, California and New York City. Warner Bros. has several subsidiary companies, including Warner Bros. Studios, Warner Bros. Pictures, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, Warner Bros. Television, Warner Bros. Animation, Warner Home Video, TheWB.com and DC Comics. Warner owns half of The CW Television Network.

Founded in 1918 by Jewish immigrants from Poland, Warner Bros. is the third-oldest American movie studio in continuous operation, after Paramount Pictures, founded in 1912 as Famous Players, and Universal Studios, also founded in 1912.