Amagi, a leading provider of cloud-based SaaS technology for broadcast and connected TV (CTV), releases its 11th edition of the Global FAST Report, showcasing sustained double-digit growth in the global Free Ad-supported Streaming Television (FAST) industry. The report provides valuable insights into viewer preferences, content trends, and regional nuances, underlining the significance of FAST as the fastest-growing business model in the streaming ecosystem.

1. Sustained Growth Metrics: The report reveals double-digit growth across key metrics compared to the previous year, including channel growth (28% vs. 25%), ad impressions (35% vs. 28%), and hours of viewing (42% vs. 26%), reaffirming FAST's status as a highly sought-after experience in the streaming landscape.

2. Insights from CRG Global: Gavin Bridge, VP of Media Research at CRG Global, emphasizes the importance of understanding regional content preferences and viewing habits to drive growth and engagement within the FAST ecosystem, particularly during the upfront season.

3. Data Sources and Methodology: Derived from more than 50 FAST services and 5,000+ channels using Amagi's THUNDERSTORM platform, the report incorporates insights from the 2024 Amagi Consumer Survey, reflecting the preferences of nearly 500 U.S. households across various income brackets.

4. Key Findings:

   • Continued Viewership Growth: FAST platforms witness a robust increase in monthly active users (MAU), outpacing SVOD and AVOD models.
   • Diversification of Content: FAST services expand beyond U.S.-centric, news-heavy content to offer diverse entertainment genres, catering to a global audience.
   • Importance of O&O Channels: Owned and operated channels contribute significantly to viewer engagement, particularly in popular genres like music, news, and entertainment.
   • Rise in Ad Impressions: Ad impressions show triple-digit growth in regions like APAC and LATAM, reflecting growing advertiser confidence in FAST platforms.
   • Addressing Viewer Dilemmas: FAST's linear viewing experience resolves the paradox of choice, enhancing viewer satisfaction and ad revenue potential.

5. Webinar Offering In-Depth Analysis: Amagi hosts an on-demand webinar, "What's on FAST? Tracking the content landscape and viewership trends," discussing the latest report findings and their implications for broadcasting and advertising.

6. Industry Recognition: Srinivasan KA, Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Amagi, emphasizes the report's role in equipping media companies, advertisers, and ecosystem players with actionable insights to navigate the evolving media landscape successfully.

Amagi's 11th Global FAST Report underscores the continued growth and significance of the FAST industry, providing comprehensive insights to drive strategic decision-making in content creation, distribution, and monetization. As viewer habits evolve, Amagi remains committed to empowering stakeholders with data-driven solutions for success in the modern media ecosystem.