GECs
Zee gets thumbs up on ESG from S&P; leads media sector in ESG rankings
MUMBAI: Even as certain government bodies are investigating Zee Entertainment for lack of transparency and for misuse of corporate funds in India, a global rating provider S&P Global’s Corporate Sustainability Assessment has given it a score of 44, placing it among the top 10 per cent of global media companies and well above the industry average of 20.
Ironical is it not? A prophet is not recognised in his own country, but is venerated elsewhere.
The Indian media powerhouse recorded a 16-point improvement from 2023, reaching the 93rd percentile in the global media, movies and entertainment sector. The company achieved top marks in transparency and reporting, whilst scoring above the 90th percentile in business ethics, cybersecurity, labour practices, and customer relations.
“Sustainable growth remains key to driving long-term success”, said Zee CEO Punit Goenka, emphasising the company’s focus on environmental sustainability and governance frameworks.
The assessment evaluated Zee’s management of material ESG risks through company disclosures, stakeholder analysis, and detailed corporate engagement. The score reflects Zee’s enhanced commitment to responsible business practices as it seeks to maintain its position as a leading entertainment provider in Asia’s third-largest economy.
GECs
Samsung TV Plus launches Kings of Comedy channel
New free FAST channel brings iconic Hindi comedy shows to millions of Samsung Smart TV owners.
MUMBAI: Samsung TV Plus has just turned up the laughter volume and it’s completely free. The leading free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) service in India has launched Kings of Comedy, a premium comedy channel featuring some of the country’s most beloved primetime shows. Available exclusively on Samsung TV Plus, the channel delivers back-to-back hits including Comedy Nights with Kapil, Khatra Khatra Khatra, and Comedy Nights Bachao, with no login or subscription required.
The launch marks a milestone for free streaming in India, offering audiences a dedicated comedy destination directly from their Samsung TV home screen. It arrives as Samsung TV Plus India celebrates its 5th anniversary, during which the service has grown its monthly active users by 42 per cent and more than doubled its total viewing hours. The platform now offers over 180 free channels across 14 languages.
Samsung TV Plus India general manager and head of business development Kunal Mehta said, “Comedy is the heartbeat of Hindi entertainment, and Kings of Comedy brings together the shows Indians already love, completely free on their Samsung TV. Our focus remains the same take the content people know and make it effortless to access.”
Globally, Samsung TV Plus has surpassed 100 million monthly active users across more than 4,500 channels, solidifying its position as one of the world’s leading free streaming services.
Kings of Comedy is now available on all compatible Samsung Smart TVs. For viewers seeking non-stop laughter without any cost, this new channel delivers a royal treat proving that sometimes the best entertainment really does come with no strings (or subscriptions) attached.
