Music fans spend more time listening to tunes during pandemic -study

14 Sept 02:01 Key points summarised by AI

Global music fans significantly increased their listening time to an average of 18.4 hours weekly during the COVID-19 pandemic, turning to music for comfort and healing.
This surge was primarily fueled by subscription audio streaming, video streaming, radio, and short-form video apps like TikTok, with a notable 51% rise in subscription audio streaming.
The 'Engaging with Music 2021' study, surveying 43,000 fans across 21 countries, also highlighted growing engagement with new music experiences, including live streaming and in-game events.
Music played a crucial role in lifting spirits during the pandemic, with 87% of respondents reporting it helped, and new releases offering solace, especially for younger demographics.
Despite increased engagement, the study revealed a persistent challenge: nearly one-third of surveyed fans admitted to using illegal or unlicensed methods to access music.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Yesterday 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.