Brands
Brunico to end Kidscreen, Realscreen, NATPE events in 2027; Jocelyn Christie exits
Industry shifts prompt shutdown of flagship events after 30 years
MUMBAI: In a move that signals shifting tides in the global content business, Brunico Communications has announced it will discontinue its US events portfolio from 2027, bringing the curtain down on marquee gatherings such as the Kidscreen Summit, Realscreen Summit and NATPE Global.
The decision marks the end of an era for Kidscreen Summit, a cornerstone of the children’s media industry for nearly 30 years. The annual event has long served as a hub for creators, broadcasters, streamers and buyers across live-action and animation, alongside hosting the widely regarded Kidscreen Awards.
Brunico cited ongoing market consolidation and structural changes in the content production landscape as the key drivers behind the move. The company will now pivot its focus towards its publications portfolio, including Kidscreen, Realscreen, Playback and Strategy, as well as the Canada-based Banff World Media Festival, which is set to return from June 14 to 17, 2026.
Adding to the shake-up, long-time Kidscreen publisher Jocelyn Christie has exited the company after a 28-year tenure. Widely credited with shaping the Kidscreen brand, Christie played a pivotal role in expanding the summit into the largest global gathering of children’s media executives and extending its reach into Asia through initiatives such as Kidscreen East and the Asian Animation Summit.
Brunico Communications president & CEO Russell Goldstein said the decision was “difficult but necessary” amid evolving market dynamics, noting that the company would double down on delivering insight, coverage and networking opportunities through its media platforms.
For her part, Christie reflected on her tenure with a sense of pride and anticipation for what lies ahead. Brunico Communications publisher Jocelyn Christie said, “I’m immensely proud of the work that has gone into building the Kidscreen brand over my last 28 years. I’m equally excited to explore new opportunities to carry my experiences forward into what comes next.”
While the lights may dim on its flagship events, Brunico appears keen to keep the conversation going through its editorial platforms. As the industry recalibrates, the company is betting that content, not conferences, will be its strongest connector in the years ahead.
Brands
NODWIN Gaming brings back Sidharth Kedia as chief strategy and investments officer ahead of IPO
Former CEO returns to drive fundraising, M&A and global expansion plans
GURUGRAM: NODWIN Gaming has appointed Sidharth Kedia as chief strategy and investments officer, marking a high-profile return as the company gears up for its next growth phase and a potential public listing.
Kedia, who previously served as CEO between 2019 and 2023, steps back in at a pivotal time with a mandate spanning strategy, fundraising and mergers and acquisitions. His appointment comes amid ongoing pre-IPO fundraising efforts and a broader push to strengthen shareholder value.
During his earlier stint, Kedia helped transform NODWIN’s trajectory, driving a tenfold jump in revenue and raising over $50 million in capital. He also played a key role in expanding the company beyond esports into a diversified youth media and entertainment platform. Under his leadership, the company’s valuation grew sharply, from around Rs 140 crore following Nazara Technologies’ investment in 2018 to $350 million pre-money after a funding round led by Sony Group Corporation in 2023.
With over two decades of experience, Kedia brings a cross-sector perspective spanning fintech, private equity and media. His career includes stints at Reliance Industries, where he worked on strategic initiatives across the Network18 portfolio, and at Viacom18, where he led corporate strategy and M&A efforts.
In his new role, Kedia will focus on sharpening NODWIN’s long-term strategy, identifying inorganic growth opportunities and strengthening its global investment narrative as the company builds a scalable, IP-led business across gaming, content and live experiences.
NODWIN Gaming chief strategy and investments officer Sidharth Kedia said, “It feels great to be back at NODWIN at such an important point in its journey. Having seen the company grow over the years, it’s clear how strong the foundation is today and how much opportunity lies ahead. NODWIN is entering a phase where focused strategy, thoughtful capital allocation, and strong execution will unlock its true value potential.”
Welcoming him back, NODWIN Gaming co-founder and managing director Akshat Rathee said, “Sidharth has played a pivotal role in shaping NODWIN’s journey, and his return comes at an important stage as we continue to scale the business globally and look at a potential listing. His leadership will be instrumental in driving long-term value creation.”
The appointment follows recent board strengthening, including the induction of Arnd Benninghoff, as the company builds institutional depth ahead of a possible IPO.
Backed by strong financial momentum, with revenues already surpassing last year’s full-year figures within the first nine months of FY26, NODWIN is doubling down on scale and strategy. With Kedia back in the mix, the company appears to be lining up its next big level up.
