Headlines
How AI Ads in ChatGPT Are Reshaping Advertising
This episode of BIA’s Leading Local Insights Podcast explores OpenAI’s move into advertising within ChatGPT and what it could mean for brands, agencies, and media sellers.
BIA
BIA: Local Radio Growth Continues As Media Mix Evolves.
Local radio sellers and marketers are navigating what industry analysts describe as a complex but opportunity-rich advertising environment in the second half of 2026, shaped by shifting budgets, digital expansion, and changing media consumption habits.
Mergers & Acquisitions
Christian Foundation To Acquire Salem Media, Take It Private
WaterStone, a Christian philanthropic foundation, is taking Salem Media Group private in a deal that will remove one of America’s largest Christian and conservative broadcasters from public markets after more than five decades.
Connoisseur Wants FCC OK To Surpass Foreign Ownership Cap
Connoisseur Media is asking the FCC to approve up to 100% indirect foreign ownership of its broadcast radio licenses in a structure that would place majority equity in the hands of Cayman Islands-registered entities while CEO Jeff Warshaw retains full voting control.
Television
Pearl TV's Anne Schelle Discusses NextGen TV Converter Box Program Progress
At the NAB Show in Las Vegas last month, Pearl TV, the consortium of broadcasters, manufacturers and industry advocates showcased prototypes of new converter boxes that would allow consumers to upgraded to ATSC 3.0 (aka NextGen TV) without having to purchase a new TV or one of the more expensive converter/DVR boxes currently available.
Radio
For 99 Years, CBS News Radio Was ‘A National Institution.’
As time runs out for CBS News Radio, which will sign off May 22 after 99 years, those who were part of the service still heard on 700 stations shared their thoughts on what it meant and still means to listeners across the U.S.
CTV/OTT
Audacy to Local Ad Buyers: Think FAST
FAST viewership is projected to cross 125 million in 2026, yet most local ad plans still concentrate spending on premium subscription platforms.
FCC
FCC Proposes Auction for New FM Stations – 132 Channels to be Available in February 2027 Auction
The FCC this week proposed an auction for the rights to construct new FM stations on 132 FM channels – the first such auction of new FM stations since 2021.