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The latest stories published on The Desk.

Philo forges distribution deal with Versant for multicast channels
Three channels from Versant's Free TV Networks are now available on Philo's free programming tier.

FCC orders ABC to renew TV broadcast licenses early over DEI programs
The probe targets ABC-owned stations in major markets despite licenses not yet nearing expiration.

Peacock rolls out on Roku Channel, coming soon to YouTube Primetime Channels
NBC Universal is now selling subscriptions to Peacock through The Roku Channel's Premium Subscriptions platform, the companies announced on Tuesday.

Philo names Tom Tidgwell as CFO, Laura Dechant to COO role
Philo has elevated two executives to new roles — Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer — as the company continues executing on its growth strategy.

Verizon CEO: Giving customers free handsets doesn’t solve all problems
The company saw an uptick in postpaid and prepaid phone additions during Q1 as it improves the customer relationship and service experience across the board.
EARNINGS REPORT

S&P: Local TV to earn $4 billion in political ad spending in 2026
Competitive races and early campaign spending are driving strong demand for local TV inventory in key battleground states.

Sinclair’s Chief Compliance Officer Jeffrey Lewis to retire
Sinclair, Inc.'s Chief Compliance Officer Jeffrey Lewis will retire from the company in early May, the broadcaster announced on Monday.
EXECUTIVE MOVES

Roku launches new Roku Curate solution for connected TV ad buyers
The offering aims to simplify campaign execution by reducing fragmentation and complexity in the connected TV marketplace.

Nielsen launches Predictive Sales Lift for advertising campaigns
The tool provides an always-on measurement layer, offering faster and more cost-effective insights than traditional studies.

Stingray hires Google’s Colin Francis to serve as Programmatic Sales Specialist
Stingray Advertising has hired Colin Francis away from Google to serve as the company's newest Programmatic Sales Specialist.
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Disney shakes up streaming executive team following key departure
The Walt Disney Company is reorganizing parts of its streaming-focused executive team following the departure of a senior product manager.

Nielsen hires Julie DeTraglia away from Netflix to serve as Head of Content, Strategic Insights
Measurement and intelligence firm Nielsen has hired a senior Netflix executive to serve as the company's new editorial marketing lead.
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