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Runway AI Levels Up: From Hollywood to Gaming!

home news runway-ai-levels-up-from-hollywood-to-gaming Game On with AI: Runway’s Bold New Move Last updated: Edited By Mackenzie Ferguson AI Tools Researcher & Implementation Consultant Runway AI, renowned for its cutting-edge video generation tools in Tinseltown, is diving into the gaming industry with an AI-powered consumer product launch scheduled for next week. The offering will initially include […]

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Game On with AI: Runway’s Bold New Move

Last updated:

Mackenzie Ferguson

Edited By

Mackenzie Ferguson

AI Tools Researcher & Implementation Consultant

Runway AI, renowned for its cutting-edge video generation tools in Tinseltown, is diving into the gaming industry with an AI-powered consumer product launch scheduled for next week. The offering will initially include text and image generation, with video game creation capabilities slated for 2025. CEO Cristóbal Valenzuela is optimistic that this innovation will transform gaming development—just as it did in movies—by speeding up processes and improving creative output.

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Introduction to Runway AI’s Expansion

Runway AI is poised for a momentous step forward as it announces its expansion into the gaming industry, building on its renowned success in the realm of Hollywood video generation. The company, celebrated for its state-of-the-art AI tools that have become a staple in film production, is now setting its sights on revolutionizing game development. This strategic move is marked by the upcoming launch of a pioneering consumer product designed to integrate AI in the form of text and image generation, with plans for full-fledged video game capabilities on the horizon for 2025. As Runway AI embarks on this new venture, its CEO, Cristóbal Valenzuela, envisions a transformative impact akin to the advancements witnessed in film production, where AI has significantly expedited development processes and enhanced creative outputs .

Background: Runway AI’s Achievements

Runway AI has firmly established itself at the forefront of the artificial intelligence industry with its innovative video generation tools, gaining prominence in the entertainment sector, particularly in Hollywood. Known for its cutting-edge technology, Runway has now set its sights on the gaming industry, aiming to replicate the impact it had on filmmaking by accelerating game development. According to The Verge, the company is launching a new consumer product that will initially feature text and image generation capabilities, with plans to include full-fledged AI-generated video games by 2025.

The gaming industry is eagerly anticipating the potential transformations that Runway AI’s technologies can deliver. By integrating its AI tools into game development, Runway aims to streamline the creative process, potentially cutting development times by up to 40%. Discussions are already underway with major gaming companies to explore opportunities for collaboration and innovation. The company believes that these advancements will not only enhance efficiency but also open up new realms of possibility for game design and storytelling.

Runway’s expansion into the gaming sector reflects a broader trend of AI’s growing role in various industries. As technologies become production-ready, the potential to revolutionize traditional workflows becomes increasingly apparent. Besides accelerating development, AI is expected to deliver more immersive and personalized gaming experiences, enhancing gameplay and supporting new business models. The implications of AI in the gaming industry are vast, with potential to redefine how games are developed, played, and monetized, as discussed in reports by Hartmann Capital.

While the excitement around AI in the gaming sector is palpable, it’s not without its challenges and controversies. Public reactions are divided, with many hopeful about the efficiency and creativity that AI can bring to game development, but others remain skeptical about Runway AI’s ability to deliver on such ambitious projects. Concerns include the possibility of creative homogenization and job displacement. Nonetheless, the potential economic and social benefits, such as lower development costs and enriched gaming narratives, continue to drive interest in the collaborative potential between AI and human creativity, as noted in DigitrendZ.

At the helm of this ambitious pivot is Runway AI’s CEO, Cristóbal Valenzuela, who envisions a future where the barriers between reality and virtual worlds blur, thanks to AI’s capabilities. Drawing parallels with AI adoption in the film industry, Valenzuela is optimistic about similar success in gaming. His commitment to keeping Runway independent reflects a desire for intellectual freedom and technological integrity. This strategic choice not only emphasizes Runway’s commitment to innovation but also positions it uniquely within the competitive landscape of AI technology firms, as reported by The Verge.

Runway AI’s New Product for Gaming Industry

Runway AI is poised for a transformative impact on the gaming industry with the launch of its new product designed for gamers. Known for its pioneering AI-powered video generation tools widely utilized by Hollywood studios, Runway AI is now extending its technological prowess into the realm of gaming. Scheduled for launch next week, the consumer product will initially offer features like text and image generation specifically tailored for gaming. Furthermore, the company has ambitious plans to introduce video game generation capabilities by the end of 2025 ().

Runway AI’s entry into the gaming sector signifies a strategic move to integrate its advanced AI technologies with popular gaming platforms. The company is actively engaging with major gaming companies to incorporate its technology and data insights, believing that their AI solutions can significantly accelerate the development process, much like their success in the film industry. CEO Cristóbal Valenzuela has expressed that AI could cut game development times by as much as 40%, fostering more dynamic and efficient development cycles. This aligns with the broader industry trend where AI is increasingly becoming a cornerstone of game development and design ().

The launch is not without its challenges, as Runway AI navigates a complex landscape of intellectual property rights and the rapid pace of technological advancement. While there have been talks with major players like Meta, Runway has opted to maintain its independence to pursue innovative pursuits driven by intellectual curiosity rather than corporate integration (). This decision echoes the company’s commitment to leveraging its AI capabilities to redefine game development paradigms, potentially leading to more personalized and immersive gaming experiences. However, there are concerns about the balance between innovation and the creative traditions of game design, highlighting the importance of carefully evolving alongside technological advancements.

Impact of AI in Gaming – An Overview

The advent of artificial intelligence in the gaming industry marks a transformative era characterized by unprecedented creativity and efficiency. A key player in this evolution is Runway AI, renowned for its advanced AI video generation technologies that have already made significant impacts in Hollywood. Now, Runway is venturing into gaming with plans to launch consumer products that initially feature text and image generation. This new initiative is part of a broader strategic pivot aimed at revolutionizing how games are developed and experienced (source).

Runway AI’s upcoming ventures into gaming are set to challenge traditional development paradigms. With their tools designed to streamline workflows and reduce production times, gaming companies can expect to see enhancements in both the creation and design processes. The potential for AI to accelerate game development—emulating its success in the film industry—offers a promising future for developers who are eager to adopt these cutting-edge technologies. Runway’s CEO, Cristóbal Valenzuela, envisions AI acting as a catalyst for sweeping changes, accelerating the pace of development while maintaining the creative integrity of game design (source).

The implications of AI-driven game development are extensive, with Runway AI poised to disrupt traditional industry models. While the potential for creating immersive, dynamic gaming experiences is highly promising, there are valid concerns regarding job displacement for current industry professionals as AI technologies automate routine tasks. However, the efficiency gains could lower barriers to entry for smaller studios, fostering an environment of increased creativity and innovation across the gaming landscape (source).

AI’s role in gaming also presents a range of socio-economic and political considerations that need to be addressed. As AI becomes more integrated into game development, issues surrounding intellectual property rights, creative ownership, and ethical content creation come to the forefront. Runway’s expansion into this domain will likely ignite discussions around these topics, as well as the broader implications of AI in media and entertainment (source).

Future of AI-Driven Video Game Generation

The advancement of AI-driven video game generation is proving to be a groundbreaking force within the gaming industry, as organizations like Runway AI embark on transforming how games are conceived and developed. Renowned for their AI video generation capabilities in Hollywood, Runway is now venturing into gaming by launching a consumer-targeted product next week. This product will initially focus on text and image generation, with plans to expand into full video game generation by the end of 2025. Their innovative approach is not only a testament to the versatility of AI but also highlights a trend where the boundaries between creative industries are becoming increasingly blurred. This initiative could pave the way for creating highly immersive, personalized gaming experiences where the narratives and environments adapt in real-time, offering players dynamics that were previously unattainable with traditional game development methods ().

Runway’s CEO, Cristóbal Valenzuela, suggests that the adoption of AI in gaming can significantly accelerate game development, reducing the time and resources needed to bring new games to market. Drawing comparisons with AI’s successful integration in film production, Valenzuela envisions similar technological advances in gaming. This could revolutionize the industry by streamlining development processes and allowing for more complex and expansive virtual worlds. Furthermore, by staying independent, Runway aims to explore untapped intellectual territories without the constraints of larger corporate entities, positioning themselves as pioneers in AI-augmented game creation ().

The future of AI-driven video game generation also raises intriguing prospects for collaborations between AI developers and gaming companies. Runway’s ongoing discussions with various gaming firms reflect a burgeoning interest in integrating AI technologies into game development pipelines. This partnership could potentially democratize game development, enabling indie developers to leverage the same AI tools used by larger studios, thereby fostering a more diverse gaming ecosystem. However, these developments also pose questions about job displacement, as AI capabilities might reduce the need for certain roles traditionally involved in game development ().

Despite the excitement around AI’s potential to transform gaming, there are concerns. Critics argue that AI could lead to a homogenization of games if developers rely too heavily on AI-generated templates. Moreover, as AI begins to handle more creative tasks, questions about originality and creative ownership arise, alongside ethical considerations regarding bias and data use in AI training. Legal challenges, particularly around intellectual property rights, are likely to emerge, requiring updates to current laws to accommodate AI-created works ().

Public reception of AI in gaming is mixed. While some embrace the potential for innovation and efficiency, others are skeptical of lofty promises and cautious about how AI might alter the fabric of game creation and player experience. The market’s response will largely determine the trajectory of these technologies, as consumers weigh the allure of new gaming experiences against the possible loss of the human touch in game design. Regardless of the varying opinions, there’s no denying that AI is on the cusp of becoming an integral part of the gaming industry’s evolution, promising a future where digital entertainment continuously adapts to player preferences and societal trends ().

Challenges and Opportunities in AI Game Development

The integration of artificial intelligence in game development presents a landscape of both challenges and opportunities. Runway AI’s foray into this sector highlights the transformative potential of AI, as its tools, previously utilized by Hollywood studios, are now being adapted for gaming. This expansion is expected to introduce innovative approaches to game creation, allowing for accelerated development timelines and enhancing creative possibilities. As Runway prepares to launch its AI-driven gaming products, starting with text and image generation features, the company is positioned to offer significant contributions to the way games are developed (https://www.theverge.com/ai-artificial-intelligence/694531/runway-ai-video-games-generate).

However, the path to integrating AI into game development is fraught with challenges. A primary concern is the potential displacement of artists and designers, as AI tools automate tasks traditionally performed by humans. The industry’s ability to adapt to these changes will be crucial in addressing these economic and social concerns. This adaptation might result in more accessible development processes for smaller studios, reducing costs and fostering creativity, but it also risks creating a homogenized creative output if not balanced properly (https://www.theverge.com/ai-artificial-intelligence/694531/runway-ai-video-games-generate).

Another challenge is ensuring the authenticity and ethical integrity of AI-generated content. Issues of algorithmic bias and the ownership of AI-created work raise questions that the industry must address to maintain credibility. Additionally, intellectual property rights may require reevaluation, as the integration of AI-generated content risks blurring the lines of traditional copyright protection. Runway’s experience with legal challenges related to copyrighted material used in AI training illustrates these complications (https://www.theverge.com/ai-artificial-intelligence/694531/runway-ai-video-games-generate).

Opportunities abound as well. AI has the potential to personalize gaming experiences, making them more immersive and dynamic. By integrating AI models into game engines, developers can craft more responsive and adaptable gaming environments. Runway AI’s innovative tools offer the promise of revolutionizing the gaming sector by significantly improving efficiency and creativity. This ambition aligns with CEO Cristóbal Valenzuela’s vision, as he anticipates that AI will rapidly accelerate game development, much like its impact on film production (https://www.theverge.com/ai-artificial-intelligence/694531/runway-ai-video-games-generate).

Lastly, the industry must navigate the political implications of AI in gaming. With the concentration of technological power in a few companies, antitrust concerns could arise, alongside potential misuse of AI technologies for purposes like deepfakes or misinformation. As Runway AI continues its expansion, the development of new legal frameworks to oversee and manage these emerging challenges and impacts will be critical in ensuring a balanced and fair gaming ecosystem (https://www.theverge.com/ai-artificial-intelligence/694531/runway-ai-video-games-generate).

Runway AI’s Vision and Industry Impact

Runway AI is poised to redefine the gaming industry with its innovative applications of artificial intelligence. Known for its prowess in AI video generation, particularly within Hollywood, Runway AI is now venturing into the gaming sector with the launch of a new consumer product. This product will initially focus on text and image generation, with plans to expand into video game generation by 2025. The integration of AI in gaming promises to revolutionize game development by significantly accelerating the process, akin to its transformative impact on film production. With discussions already underway with leading gaming companies, Runway AI is eager to deploy its technology to enhance gaming experiences, foster creativity, and streamline production timelines .

The potential impact of Runway AI’s entry into gaming extends well beyond mere technological advancement. CEO Cristóbal Valenzuela predicts that AI will speed up the development cycle by up to 40%. This could democratize game development by reducing the cost and time barriers for smaller studios, thereby enabling a more diverse range of games in the market. However, this shift is not without its challenges, as concerns over job displacement for artists and designers and the creative limits of automated tasks loom large. Runway’s determination to remain independent—a choice highlighted by its rebuffed acquisition talks with Meta—underscores its commitment to pioneering unique intellectual challenges .

The societal implications of Runway AI’s innovations are equally significant. As AI becomes a staple in game development, the potential for creating more immersive, personalized experiences arises. Content that adapts dynamically to the player could redefine what it means to engage with a video game, though this also raises critical questions about the authenticity and ownership of such content. The emergence of such technology necessitates careful consideration of ethical issues, particularly in terms of algorithmic bias, which could affect representation and fairness in AI-generated narratives .

Politically, Runway’s foray into gaming technology brings its own set of challenges. Intellectual property rights could become a contentious arena, especially considering Runway’s previous legal battles over copyrighted material used in AI training. The nature of AI-generated content challenges traditional understandings of copyright, potentially requiring a reevaluation of existing legal frameworks. Additionally, the expansion of AI technology into gaming raises concerns over the concentration of power. The dominance of a few major players in the AI space, including the potential for misuse like deepfakes, emphasizes the need for regulatory oversight to ensure ethical standards and competition are maintained .

Public Reactions and Diverse Opinions

The public’s reaction to Runway AI’s entry into the gaming industry is decidedly multifaceted. On one hand, there’s a wave of positive sentiment among gaming enthusiasts and developers who are optimistic about how AI might revolutionize game development processes. This group envisions a future where AI-driven tools streamline workflows, significantly reducing production time while enhancing the creative capabilities of developers. The excitement is palpable among those who believe AI can accelerate innovation, allowing developers to tackle more ambitious projects and achieve results more swiftly than ever before. Publications like DigitrendZ highlight such optimism, suggesting that AI’s transformative potential could signify a new era of gaming development.

However, not all reactions are filled with enthusiasm. A segment of the public expresses skepticism, questioning whether Runway AI can deliver on its ambitious promises. Some perceive the company’s foray into gaming as a case of being ‘late to the game,’ raising doubts about its ability to compete with established players already utilizing AI technologies. Concerns are also voiced regarding Runway’s attention—or lack thereof—to user feedback, as well as the perceived limited scope of the initial products being offered. These sentiments are echoed in discussions on platforms like Reddit, indicating a mixture of excitement and wariness within the community.

The Broader Economic and Social Implications

The expansion of Runway AI into the gaming industry highlights its potential to significantly alter both economic and social landscapes. By lowering development costs and reducing timelines, Runway’s AI tools could democratize access to game development. This, in turn, may enable smaller studios to compete with established industry giants by producing innovative and high-quality games at a fraction of the cost . However, this technological shift also points to possible job displacement for artists and designers, raising concerns about employment sustainability and creative industry evolution .

Socially, the integration of AI in gaming could lead to enriched player experiences through personalized content and dynamically evolving game narratives. This potential for immersive storytelling using AI-driven customization offers gamers more engagement and replayability . However, questions arise concerning the authenticity of these experiences, especially when AI systems generate content autonomously. Moreover, ethical issues regarding algorithmic bias could lead to unfair or unbalanced gameplay, challenging developers to address inclusivity and fairness in AI-driven environments .

Politically, Runway’s technological expansion into gaming suggests a re-examination of intellectual property rights as AI-generated content becomes more prevalent. With previous legal battles over copyrighted material used in AI training, the future of AI in gaming might demand new legal frameworks to define ownership and rights . In addition, the growing influence of companies like Runway could prompt antitrust scrutiny, especially as AI capabilities could be misused for creating deepfakes or spreading misinformation. The combination of these factors suggests that substantial legal and political discourse will be necessary to govern the future of AI in the creative industries .

Legal and Political Considerations of AI in Gaming

The intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and gaming is not merely a matter of technical advancement but also a complex arena of legal and political challenges. As AI technologies like those developed by Runway AI advance into the gaming industry, key legal concerns revolve around intellectual property rights. With AI’s growing ability to generate content, often learned from vast datasets, questions arise about the ownership of generated outputs and the potential misuse of copyrighted material during AI training. This was evidenced by past legal challenges faced by Runway, highlighting the need for new legal frameworks to address these novel challenges. As gaming companies and AI developers navigate these legal waters, robust agreements and careful considerations regarding data usage and intellectual property will become paramount to ensure innovation is legally sound [1](https://www.theverge.com/ai-artificial-intelligence/694531/runway-ai-video-games-generate).

Politically, the move of AI into gaming is poised to impact regulatory landscapes significantly. The concentration of power in tech giants like Runway hints at possible antitrust issues, especially as these companies become pivotal in shaping future media landscapes. Moreover, the potential for AI misuse in gaming, whether through creating deepfakes or spreading misinformation, calls for careful monitoring and regulation to protect consumers and maintain fair industry practices. As AI reshapes the digital entertainment sector, policymakers will need to establish clear guidelines that balance innovation with public interest and security. This regulatory environment will likely evolve as AI becomes more entrenched in gaming markets [1](https://www.theverge.com/ai-artificial-intelligence/694531/runway-ai-video-games-generate).

The impact of AI on the gaming industry extends beyond legal frameworks, touching on broader societal concerns about job displacement and cultural homogenization. As AI automates parts of game development traditionally reserved for artists and designers, there are fears about job losses in these creative fields. However, proponents argue that AI can serve as a tool for enhancing creative productivity, enabling developers to craft more intricate and engaging gaming experiences. These shifts may require companies to rethink workforce strategies, potentially focusing on retraining and upskilling to adapt to an AI-enhanced development landscape [1](https://www.theverge.com/ai-artificial-intelligence/694531/runway-ai-video-games-generate).

Discussion surrounding AI in gaming also encompasses social considerations about authenticity and creative ownership. The capability of AI to personalize gaming experiences introduces ethical questions about ownership and the authenticity of algorithmically-generated narratives. As AI starts to weave more dynamic and personalized stories within games, the distinction between human and machine creativity may blur, challenging our traditional notions of authorship. Addressing these philosophical questions will be essential in securing the societal acceptance of AI-enhanced gaming [1](https://www.theverge.com/ai-artificial-intelligence/694531/runway-ai-video-games-generate).

The legal and political landscape concerning AI in gaming is as dynamic as the technology itself. The initial excitement surrounding AI offers vast opportunities but also calls for scrutiny and deliberation regarding its broader impacts. As developers and policymakers engage with these emerging legal and political challenges, their efforts will be critical in shaping a future where AI technologies enrich, rather than undermine, the gaming industry [1](https://www.theverge.com/ai-artificial-intelligence/694531/runway-ai-video-games-generate).



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A Financial Take on DraftKings Sportsbook: Tech, Funding, Apps and Stock

Yes, DraftKings is a sports betting company. One of the biggest and most successful on the market right now but that’s not important. It’s not about their success in terms of being a platform that offers excellent sports betting data, features, daily promos and betting options but rather to see the company from a financial […]

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Yes, DraftKings is a sports betting company. One of the biggest and most successful on the market right now but that’s not important. It’s not about their success in terms of being a platform that offers excellent sports betting data, features, daily promos and betting options but rather to see the company from a financial stance. After all, it’s a business at the end of the day and businesses have a bottom line, which is what the focus is here.

It’s fascinating to see how this company has managed to gain so much attention and popularity over the past few years. There was an evolution from fantasy to fintech, that’s for sure. Then, when micro-betting became a thing, that also pushed this market forward. The numbers of DraftKings don’t lie and their numbers are rising because of the safe and reliable data that they have running behind the scenes. If this is something that sounds interesting to you, then great, because you’re about to find out a whole bunch more.

The Evolution From Fantasy to Fintech

DraftKings didn’t start as a sportsbook. It was built for fans of fantasy leagues. But once U.S. laws started opening the door to legalized sports betting, the company had a head start with millions of fantasy users already plugged into the platform.

Now, DraftKings is a fully licensed sportsbook operator in 26 states. That expansion has allowed the company to rapidly scale its offerings beyond fantasy and position itself as a fintech-meets-sports platform. As more states go legal, that reach will only grow and the company’s business model is built to keep absorbing that growth. If you ever wanted to see a company that started with nothing do really well, then this is the one.

Big Tech Moves Ahead of NFL Season

If you’re following the tech side of DraftKings, two words stand out right now: BetVision and micro-betting.

BetVision is a relatively newly launched. It combines live game streaming directly within the DraftKings app with the ability to bet on what’s happening in real time. No switching screens and no app juggling. If you’ve placed a bet on the game, you get to watch it live through the app and place additional bets while you do.

And then there’s micro-betting. Thanks to DraftKings’ acquisition of Simplebet, the app now allows you to bet on every play. Want to guess if the next snap is a run or a pass? That’s a bet. If you’re into fast-paced, rapid-fire engagement, this is your lane. European betting markets already see 70–80% of their volume from in-game betting, while the U.S. sits around 40–50%. DraftKings is aiming to push those numbers higher this season.

DraftKings by the Numbers

You can love football and still appreciate good data and DraftKings has had a strong run leading into the 2024 NFL season.

The below is going to sound very stock-focused and analytical but it’s still super interesting and important:

  • 3.1 million average monthly unique players in Q2 2024, up 50% year-over-year
  • Fiscal 2024 revenue guidance raised to $5.05–$5.25 billion (up from $4.80–$5.00 billion)
  • YoY revenue growth projected at 38% to 43%
  • Highest platform uptime in the 2023 NFL season: 96.1%, beating out FanDuel and BetMGM

With every new state that legalizes betting, DraftKings gets more runway to scale. And the NFL season, as always, is the crown jewel of their calendar.

The Stock Picture: DKNG Heading Into 2025/2026

If you’re tracking DraftKings stock, you’ve likely noticed it’s been riding in a strong uptrend. The stock has been moving within a daily ascending channel since September 2024, kicking off from $30.30 and moving higher with each swing. The anchored VWAP support level has crept up to $38.35, a bullish sign heading into the thick of the NFL schedule.

The relative strength index (RSI) hasn’t broken the overbought 70-band yet, instead pulling back to the 61 range. That means it still has room to move up without being overheated, which is good news if you’re eyeing an entry point. Are these words sounding a bit confusing? Don’t worry, it’s just stock talk and you’ll soon get the hang of it.

Analyst consensus gives the stock an average price target of $49.74, with some bullish targets pointing to $60.00. That’s a decent runway if the NFL season delivers.

Here’s where you might consider action, if you’re watching it as a trading opportunity:

  • Buy-the-dip entries near Fibonacci pullback levels: $37.79, $34.47, $31.09 and $28.84
  • Cash-secured puts at those support levels if you’re aiming to enter with less risk
  • Bullish call debit spreads to benefit from upside with less capital outlay than buying shares outright

The Bottom Line

DraftKings is no longer just a fantasy sports app; it’s a major tech-driven betting platform with strong financials and one of the highest brand recognitions in U.S. sports betting. With the NFL season in full swing and new tech features driving user engagement, the stock could have plenty of room to run.

You don’t have to be a diehard football fan to see the potential in DraftKings. Whether you’re watching the app’s growth, the stock’s technical setup or the wave of state-by-state legalization, this is one company at the intersection of sports, tech and finance that’s worth keeping on your radar. Just remember to engage with responsibility in mind.

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Anantara Convento di Amalfi Joins Forces with Technogym for a Revolutionary Wellness Retreat, Combining Luxury and Cutting-Edge Fitness on the Amalfi Coast

Home » HOTEL NEWS » Anantara Convento di Amalfi Joins Forces with Technogym for a Revolutionary Wellness Retreat, Combining Luxury and Cutting-Edge Fitness on the Amalfi Coast Published on August 11, 2025 | Anantara Convento di Amalfi, nestled on the stunning Amalfi Coast, has partnered with Technogym to create an extraordinary wellness retreat that promises […]

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August 11, 2025 |

Amalfi grand hotel

Anantara Convento di Amalfi, nestled on the stunning Amalfi Coast, has partnered with Technogym to create an extraordinary wellness retreat that promises to redefine luxury and fitness. This collaboration merges world-class hospitality with state-of-the-art fitness technology, offering guests a holistic experience that goes beyond traditional spa treatments. With breathtaking views, a serene atmosphere, and the latest fitness innovations, this retreat is designed to cater to travelers seeking both relaxation and rejuvenation in one of Italy’s most picturesque locations. Whether you’re looking to relax by the sea or elevate your fitness routine, this partnership sets a new standard for wellness tourism on the Amalfi Coast.

Nestled above the Mediterranean, within a 13th-century Capuchin monastery carved into the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel has announced an exciting extension of its global partnership with Technogym – the world-renowned leader in fitness, wellness, sport, and health. This collaboration blends the peaceful historic ambiance of the hotel with cutting-edge fitness in an extraordinary environment.

As part of this landmark partnership, the hotel will feature state-of-the-art Technogym equipment in its stunning panoramic gym, complemented by exclusive training content curated by Technogym specifically for Anantara guests. The collaboration peaks with the inaugural Anantara & Technogym Wellness Retreat, scheduled for November 20–23, 2025, at Anantara Convento di Amalfi. This exceptional retreat offers an immersive experience in movement, mindfulness, and monastic tranquility, guided by expert instructors with breathtaking sea views.

Embodying the essence of Pace e Bene, an ancient monastic blessing of peace and goodwill, this retreat merges Technogym’s science-driven fitness philosophy with Anantara’s soul-soothing wellness traditions.

The Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel, a former monastery, has been a sanctuary for those seeking peace, connection, and rejuvenation. Nestled along the stunning Amalfi Coast, this historic hotel offers a tranquil escape with its travertine spa, serene monk’s garden, ancient cloisters, and panoramic views. Wellness here is not just a practice—it’s a way of living. In collaboration with Technogym, the retreat now offers a renewed dimension of tranquility. Two expert Technogym Master Trainers will guide guests, blending deep knowledge with holistic care.

This transformative four-day, three-night experience includes personalized wellness assessments, energizing movement sessions, breathwork, workshops, nutritious meals, and reflective moments.

Key Retreat Features:

  • Technogym Checkup: An AI-driven assessment tool that evaluates physical and mental health, used to craft a personalized wellness program.
  • Five Movement Sessions: Led by Technogym Master Trainers, including yoga, functional training, and breathwork exercises.
  • Three Wellness Workshops: Topics include “Starting Your Wellness Journey,” “Planning for Longevity,” and “Enhancing Deep Breathing.”
  • Cooking Class with Executive Chef Claudio Lanuto: Focuses on the nutrient-rich cuisine of the Campania region.
  • Pace e Bene Experience: A signature Anantara session with Friar Marcus, delving into the spiritual heritage of the convent.
  • Luxurious Accommodations: Includes daily meals and transfers to and from Naples International Airport.

Each day is guided by nature’s rhythms, from sunrise yoga to evening serenity, with culinary delights in between, all set within the peaceful environment of this extraordinary hotel.

At Anantara Convento di Amalfi, wellness permeates every aspect of the experience. Guests can unwind further with spa treatments inspired by local botanicals, and take part in excursions to explore the region’s historic and natural wonders, embracing a holistic lifestyle that honors both tradition and well-being.

Anantara Convento di Amalfi has teamed up with Technogym to offer a revolutionary wellness retreat on the Amalfi Coast. This collaboration blends luxury with cutting-edge fitness technology, providing guests an unparalleled experience of relaxation and rejuvenation. With stunning views and top-tier wellness offerings, it redefines the concept of wellness tourism in Italy.

This retreat, combining Anantara’s dedication to transformative travel and Technogym’s mission to promote better living through movement, nutrition, and mental balance, offers a truly enriching experience.

Dates: November 20–23, 2025
Location: Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel
Price: Starting at €3,000 per person (limited availability).



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How the world’s most valuable company got caught in the middle of Trump’s spat with China – The Mercury News

By Clare Duffy, Phil Mattingly, Lisa Eadicicco, CNN New York (CNN) — Nvidia, the world’s most valuable company, has found itself caught in the middle of President Donald Trump’s historic trade war with China. The result: an extraordinary concession from a $4.5 trillion corporation that will give the United States a percentage of every high-end […]

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By Clare Duffy, Phil Mattingly, Lisa Eadicicco, CNN

New York (CNN) — Nvidia, the world’s most valuable company, has found itself caught in the middle of President Donald Trump’s historic trade war with China. The result: an extraordinary concession from a $4.5 trillion corporation that will give the United States a percentage of every high-end AI chip sold in China.

The deal, which AMD also signed for some of its chips, could split the difference between two competing Trump administration goals: maintain America’s AI dominance while securing a critical trade agreement with China. It could also give the White House billions of dollars to spend as it wishes.

What Nvidia agreed to

Nvidia and AMD have agreed to pay the US government 15% of their revenues from semiconductor sales to China in exchange for licenses to export their technology there.

The White House in April blocked the export of certain AI chips to China, including Nvidia’s H20 chips and AMD’s MI308 chips. The deal with the Trump administration allows the companies to obtain export licenses to restart sales of those chips in China, a US official told CNN. The Financial Times first reported the story Sunday.

Nvidia previewed the deal last month, when it said it would resume sales of the H20 chip to China after the Trump administration expressed openness to allowing the export of certain AI chips again. But the 15% payment was a surprise. Trump said Nvidia was initially asked to pay a 20% cut, but they negotiated the rate down to 15%.

The deal came together after Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang met with President Donald Trump on Wednesday, the official said. Although the export licenses were granted Friday, no shipments have yet been made.

“We follow rules the US government sets for our participation in worldwide markets,” a Nvidia spokesperson said in a statement. “While we haven’t shipped H20 to China for months, we hope export control rules will let America compete in China and worldwide.”

AMD has not responded to CNN’s request for comment.

How extraordinary is this?

Governments, including the United States, have taken control of companies in the past when they were considered to be of strategic importance to national security. During the financial crisis in 2009, the United States took control of General Motors and Chrysler, and the proceeds of those stakes went directly into the US Treasury after the government sold them for a profit.

But it’s not clear that the US government has ever demanded a percentage of a company’s business without taking an equity stake – or if it’s even legal to do so.

The US Constitution forbids taxes on exports. To get around that, the deal’s terms have been structured as a voluntary agreement, so it won’t be considered a tax or a tariff, a US official said. Instead, Nvidia and AMD will voluntarily send funds to the US government. The companies will have no say whatsoever on how the US government deploys that money after it is sent.

“It’s hard to identify any historical precedent for this sort of arrangement,” said Sarah Kreps, law professor and director of the Tech Policy Institute at Cornell University’s Brooks School of Public Policy.

What about national security?

In recent years, the US government has sought to restrict China’s access to advanced American technology in an effort to slow its progress on AI and let the United States get farther ahead. But the White House’s reversal on export controls may be an acknowledgement that China is advancing in AI regardless, so American companies might as well be allowed to benefit. It could also give the White House another way to raise revenue for the US government, along with tariffs.

“It seems like there’s been some vacillation within the administration about and toward China, and I think that reflects the internal divide within the administration between the China hawks and the economic pragmatists,” Kreps said. “It seems like increasingly, the economic pragmatists are holding sway.”

That approach would align with arguments from Nvidia’s Huang, who has said that restricting sales of American AI chips is bad for US national security. Chinese developers could simply undermine US leadership by creating their own alternatives if they can’t buy American technology, according to Huang, who has met with Trump repeatedly in recent months.

The White House agrees with Huang, believing it’s better to have China locked into a US-made chip sold through legitimate channels than to force China to the black market, a US official said. China has been able to subvert existing channels to obtain restricted chips anyway.

Why is Trump charging 15%?

Big questions remain about where the 15% commission idea emerged and what it could mean for national security.

A US official said that the payment allows the administration to maintain control of the export process and bring in revenue for the US government in the process. Still, it’s not clear that the penalty for Nvidia and AMD will effectively limit the flow of the chips or erase any potential national security issues.

“If there’s a legitimate national security concern about exporting these chips to China, then I don’t see how the payments to the US government address those risks. In fact, they don’t at all,” said Scott Kennedy, senior adviser and trustee chair in Chinese business and economics at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. “And if there’s not a sufficient national security risk or they can be adequately mitigated … then the US government should just get out of the way and expect nothing in return.”

What does this mean for Nvidia?

Nvidia released the H20 chip last year as a way to maintain access to the Chinese market — which made up 13% of the company’s sales in 2024 — in the face of US export controls imposed by the Biden administration.

But the chips are widely believed to have contributed to DeepSeek, an advanced Chinese AI model that shook Silicon Valley upon its release earlier this year, raising concerns that China was further ahead on AI than previously understood.

After the Trump administration barred H20 sales to China in April, Nvidia said it took billions of dollars in charges and lost revenue because of the export controls in the first quarter and projected a similar outcome in the second quarter.

So, even if it has to fork over 15% of those sales to the White House, resuming shipments of the H20 to China could mean billions more dollars in revenue for Nvidia — which became the first publicly traded company to top $4 trillion in valuation last month. Shares of Nvidia (NVDA) rose as much as 0.5% on Monday.

Combined, Nvidia and AMD could earn as much as $35 billion in annual revenue from sales of their H20 and MI380 chips to China, according to CFRA Research analyst Angelo Zino’s estimates. That means the White House would earn around $5 billion in revenue. “We acknowledge the tax will have a negative impact on profit margins tied to China sales but view the reentry into the second-largest GPU market to be worth the cost,” Zino said in emailed commentary Monday.

How important are these chips?

Trump on Monday called Nvidia’s H20 chip “obsolete,” saying that China “already has it in a different form.”

But some experts disagree with Trump’s characterization of the chips.

“These H20s are still state of the art,” CSIS’s Kennedy said. Although they’re less advanced, in some ways, than other Nvidia chips, “they also come with elements that make them extremely sophisticated and valuable,” including their memory capabilities.

Nvidia’s H20 chip is also good at inference, says Param Singh, professor of business technologies and marketing at Carnegie Mellon University, which refers to the process an AI model goes through when answering a question.

But Nvidia’s H100 and H200 series chips, as well as its Blackwell line of chips, are much more powerful and better equipped to train large language models like OpenAI’s GPT-5 he says. It’s not the same as calling it obsolete, but using a chip like the H20 instead could mean it might take longer to train cutting edge AI models.

“There’s a huge difference in the amount of calculations that an H100 chip could do versus an H20,” he said.

Nvidia likely reasoned that there is enough Chinese demand for the chips to make the 15% commission to the White House a worthwhile trade-off for its business, according to Kreps. “You have to do a calculation based on what was lost from the export controls,” she said.

Will Trump approve more advanced chips?

Trump on Monday left open the possibility that Nvidia could export its super high-end Blackwell chips for a higher price. The Trump administration had closed the door on the export of that technology to China — even after reversing course on the H20.

However, Trump on Monday said that he’d consider allowing Nvidia to sell the Blackwell chip.

“The Blackwell is superduper advanced. I wouldn’t make a deal with that, although it’s possible,” Trump said. “I’d make a deal a somewhat enhanced in a negative way. Blackwell, in other words, take 30% to 50% off of it, but that’s the latest and the greatest in the world. Nobody has it. They won’t have it for five years.”

Trump said Huang will return to the White House in the future to discuss selling an “unenhanced” version of Blackwell.

“I think he’s coming to see me again about that, but that will be a unenhanced version of the big one,” Trump said. “You know, we will sometimes sell fighter jets to a country and we’ll give them 20% less than we have.”

What does China want?

Questions from Beijing about the security of American AI chips also raise uncertainty about just how successful Trump’s commission policy could be.

China could choose not to buy US tech firm Nvidia’s H20 chips, the social media account Yuyuan Tantian, which is affiliated with state broadcaster CCTV, said on Sunday. It claimed that the chips could have “backdoors” that impact their function and security, following previous similar claims from China’s cybersecurity administration. Nvidia has repeatedly denied that its products have backdoors.

However, that statement could be less an indication that China won’t buy American chips and more a signal to Chinese tech companies to continue innovating in semiconductors even if US shipments do resume, Kennedy said.

What does this mean for a broader trade deal?

For the Trump administration, the cost-benefit analysis is that it opens up the flow of mid-tier chips to China while giving the administration a key bargaining chip in its ongoing trade talks, a US official said.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has called Nvidia export controls a “negotiating chip” in the larger US-China trade talks.

But China knows that, and its posturing over supposed security concerns with the H20 chip this weekend suggests that it won’t be won over so easily — even if it wants the chips for its market.

This story has been updated with additional information and context.

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Crunch Fitness Killeen Expands into New 50,000 sq. ft. State-of-the-Art Facility with Grand Re-Opening Celebration on August 19

KILLEEN, Texas, Aug. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The Undefeated Tribe, one of the fastest-growing franchise groups within the Crunch Fitness system, is doubling down on its commitment to the Killeen community with a bold expansion into a brand new 50,000-square-foot location. Locally owned and operated by franchisee Tony Hartl and The Undefeated Tribe, the new […]

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KILLEEN, Texas, Aug. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The Undefeated Tribe, one of the fastest-growing franchise groups within the Crunch Fitness system, is doubling down on its commitment to the Killeen community with a bold expansion into a brand new 50,000-square-foot location. Locally owned and operated by franchisee Tony Hartl and The Undefeated Tribe, the new Crunch Fitness Killeen will officially open its doors at 2:00 PM on August 19, following the closure of the current gym the night before at 10:00 PM.

The new location, representing a $10 million investment, is located just next door from the original club at 1101 S Fort Hood Street, in the former Conn’s and next to Area 254. Originally opened in 2018 with 28,000 sq. ft., Crunch Killeen is now expanding to nearly double the size, bringing an even more vibrant and upscale experience to its members.

The expanded club will feature hot yoga, full-service locker rooms with saunas, a second indoor turf space, more strength training and cardio equipment, a Kid’s Crunch Theatre, group fitness and Ride spin studios, HIITZone™ functional training, HydroMassage®, red light therapy, tanning, babysitting services, personal training, and more.

“We are so excited to bring a new Crunch Fitness brand to Killeen and continue to offer outstanding and affordable fitness,” said Crunch Franchisee Tony Hartl. “We appreciate and value all of our members at Killeen, especially those who have been with us since day one—this new location will offer a vibrant, upscale and new experience for the community.”

To celebrate the opening, Crunch will host a Grand Re-Opening Celebration on Monday, August 19, from 5:00 PM7:00 PM, where the first 1,000 guests will receive a free Crunch t-shirt (while supplies last). Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet football legend Vince Young, who will be available for photos and autographs (limit 2 per person). The event is free and open to the public, no membership required.

In addition, Crunch is offering a limited-time exclusive where new members can join for just 1¢, get their first month free, and receive a complimentary one-hour personal training session.

Crunch Killeen is also hiring. Positions include managers, group fitness instructors, personal trainers, customer service representatives, facility technicians, and babysitters. Those looking to join a team that’s passionate about people, fitness, and fun can apply now at epiccrunchjobs.com.

Founded in 2018 by Tony Hartl, The Undefeated Tribe was named Crunch Franchise of the Year in 2021 for its excellence in performance, brand leadership, and community impact. With 33 locations open and over 47 in development, the team is on a mission to open over 100 new clubs nationwide by the end of 2028.

About The Undefeated Tribe

Founded in 2018 by Tony Hartl, The Undefeated Tribe is one of the fastest growing franchises within the Crunch Fitness system. The Company currently operates locations in Texas, Missouri, New Mexico and Oklahoma, with many more in development. In 2021 The Undefeated Tribe was selected as the Franchise of the Year for the Crunch Fitness system. The Undefeated Tribe was recognized as the top-performing franchise for its unique accomplishments and excellence in business performance, community service, and brand involvement.

Media Contact

Amber Givens, The Undefeated Tribe, 1 2706685354, [email protected], epicrunchjobs.com

SOURCE The Undefeated Tribe



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If the ESPN & FOX One Bundle Isn’t Enough —Here’s What Happens When You Add Peacock, HBO Max, & Paramount+

If you care about live games, critically acclaimed documentaries, and every possible angle on sports, the new ESPN DTC–FOX One bundle for $39.99 is a powerful foundation, but it’s only the beginning. For sports streamers who need to fill their gaps in other linear broadcast sports from the Big Three and Warner Bros. Discovery, adding […]

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If you care about live games, critically acclaimed documentaries, and every possible angle on sports, the new ESPN DTC–FOX One bundle for $39.99 is a powerful foundation, but it’s only the beginning.

For sports streamers who need to fill their gaps in other linear broadcast sports from the Big Three and Warner Bros. Discovery, adding Peacock, HBO Max, and Paramount+, you’ll have a near-complete streaming setup for the sports-crazy household.

The latest bundle between FOX and ESPN highlights how much the sports streaming landscape has changed since earlier this year. Venu Sports, a joint venture sports-streaming app between Warner Bros. Discover, FOX, and ESPN, was set to launch at $42.99 per month; however, the idea was scrapped as the companies chose to focus on their existing offerings.

With a growing number of sports fans becoming frustrated with fragmentation, figuring out where and what to watch can sometimes be challenging. Many are preparing for the upcoming NFL season and other fall sports to adjust their budgets accordingly.

Find out below why each service is worth adding, what kinds of sports and events they typically bring to the table, and exactly how much the combinations will cost based on the plans you provided.

The Price of Streaming for Sports Fans

As cable subscribers continue to decline, fans of sports that air on traditional TV, including NBC, CBS, and the Turner Networks (TNT, TBS, truTV), have added Peacock, Paramount+, and HBO Max, respectively. With the news of the FOX-ESPN bundle, the chart below shows how much it would cost to add the other three services to your arsenal.

Streaming Combo ESPN–FOX
Bundle
(mo / yr)
Peacock
(mo / yr)
HBO Max (mo / yr) Paramount+ (mo / yr) Monthly
Total
Annual
Total
ESPN–FOX One Bundle $39.99 / $479.88 $39.99 $479.88
ESPN-FOX + Peacock Premium $39.99 / $479.88 $10.99 / $109.99 $50.98 $589.87
ESPN/FOX + Peacock Premium Plus $39.99 / $479.88 $16.99 / $169.99 $56.98 $649.87
ESPN/FOX + HBO Max Basic $39.99 / $479.88 $9.99 / $99.99 $49.98 $579.87
ESPN/FOX + HBO Max Standard $39.99 / $479.88 $16.99 / $169.99 $56.98 $649.87
ESPN/FOX + HBO Max Premium $39.99 / $479.88 $20.99 / $209.99 $60.98 $689.87
ESPN/FOX + HBO bundle (Hulu & Disney+ With Ads) $39.99 / $479.88 $16.99 / $203.88* $56.98 $683.76
ESPN/FOX + HBO bundle (Hulu & Disney+ No Ads) $39.99 / $479.88 $29.99 / $359.88* $69.98 $839.76
ESPN/FOX + Paramount+ Essential $39.99 / $479.88 $7.99 / $59.99 $47.98 $539.87
ESPN/FOX + Paramount+ Premium $39.99 / $479.88 $12.99 / $119.99 $52.98 $599.87
All four — all-premium combo (Peacock Premium Plus + HBO Premium + Paramount Premium) $39.99 / $479.88 $16.99 / $169.99 $20.99 / $209.99 $12.99 / $119.99 $90.96 $979.85

What is the ESPN-Fox Bundle

The ESPN and FOX One bundle brings both companies’ direct-to-consumer offerings under one roof for only $39.99. The bundle is set to launch on Thursday, October 2. However, each service is set to launch sooner individually, and here’s what they include:

ESPN DTC

For many, the ESPN app is a must-have as it has nearly everything for every sports fan. The flagship direct-to-consumer app will launch on Thursday, August 21, at $29.99 per month. With the app, subscribers get access to all of ESPN’s linear networks, streaming content from ESPN+, ESPN3, SECN+, ACCNX, and cover an estimated 47,000 live events annually.

FOX One

The FOX One app launches on the same date as the ESPN app and brings FOX’s content without the hassle of the cord. FOX One packs the company’s entertainment, news, and sports content together for as low as $19.99 per month or $199.99 per year. Highlights from the FOX brand that will be available include FOX News Channel, FOX Business Network, FOX Weather, FOX Sports, FS1, FS2, FOX Deportes, B1G, FOX Local Stations, the FOX Network, FOX Nation, and B1G+. FOX Sports offers the NFL, MLB, NASCAR, NCAA sports (college football and basketball), FIFA World Cup, IndyCar, horse racing, MLS, and international soccer.

Why Add Peacock

  • Peacock Overview (Plans, Pricing & What to Watch):
    • Premium: $10.99 per month | $109.99 per year
    • Premium Plus: $16.99 per month | $169.99 per year
    • Sports to Watch: NFL, PGA Tour, WWE, NBA, NASCAR, College Sports, Premier League & More
  • Watch Peacock Today

Peacock is a smart add for viewers who want broad, event-driven coverage beyond what the ESPN-FOX bundle covers, as it complements:

  • Marquee matchups during the NFL season with Sunday Night Football
  • Big-time matchups on the hardwood throughout the NBA and WNBA seasons
  • Soccer and international competition, including the Premier League on NBC/Peacock feeds and studio shows.
  • WWE Network (WWE PLEs*, archives, and original content)— *this changes in 2026
  • Olympic and major-event coverage, plus replay libraries and live-streamed niche sports produced by NBC Sports.
  • College athletics, including college basketball and football featuring the Big Ten, Notre Dame and more.
  • Live golf during the collegiate season and the LPGA and PGA Tour
  • Racing, including the Kentucky Derby and Thoroughbred Racing, and motorsports like NASCAR, SuperMotorcross, and other top leagues

Peacock brings the NBC Sports’ lineup that fills the “big occasional event + deep archive” gaps. It offers hundreds of live events you might not get on ESPN or FOX, and on-demand replays and extras that make bingeing highlights easy.

Beyond sports, Peacock gives you thousands of shows, movies, and original content, including the library of NBC, Bravo, and other popular networks. You can choose the Peacock Premium plan, which includes ads, or upgrade to Peacock Premium Plus to watch without ads and get access to your local NBC station. Peacock also offers student discounts and savings for adults aged 18-24.

Why Add HBO Max

  • HBO Max Overview (Plans, Pricing & What to Watch):
    • Basic: $9.99 per month | $99.99 per year (No Sports)
    • Standard: $16.99 per month | $169.99 per year
    • Premium: $20.99 per month | $209.99 per year
    • Bundle with Hulu & Disney+ (With Ads): $16.99 per month (No Sports)
    • Bundle with Hulu & Disney+ (No Ads): $29.99 per month
    • Sports to Watch: NASCAR, AEW, MLB, NHL, March Madness, College Football, French Open, U.S. Soccer & More
    • Watch HBO Max Today

HBO Max isn’t primarily a live-sports destination, but it completes a sports lineup by offering premium context and storytelling:

  • Feature-length sports documentaries, behind-the-scenes series, and long-form analysis.
  • Event specials and occasional live-sports tie-ins that are great for fans who value background, history, and high-end production on the biggest sports stories.
  • A rotating catalog of sports films and premium TV that rounds out game-day viewing (pre/post-game film nights, biopics, documentaries).

HBO Max will look different after the completion of the Warner Bros. Discovery spin-off of its linear network. Until then, subscribers can find a solid lineup of sports content airing on TNT, TBS, and truTV on the platform.

The USMNT, USWNT, AEW, March Madness, Big 12 sports, Big East men’s and women’s basketball, College Football Playoffs, NHL, MLB, NASCAR, tennis, The Match, French Open, Savannah Bananas, and Unrivaled are just a few of the highlights that fall under the TNT Sports portfolio, you can stream live on HBO Max with the Standard or a higher tier plan.

Like Peacock, HBO Max offers a large library of on-demand content, including premium shows, reality TV, Discovery content, and thousands of hours of entertainment. If you want the storytelling and premium-content layer on top of live-game coverage, add HBO Max to your lineup. Also, the platform offers a student discount.

Why Add Paramount+

  • Paramount+ Overview (Plans, Pricing & What to Watch):
    • Essential: $7.99 per month | $59.99 per year
    • Premium: $12.99 per month | $119.99 per year
    • Sports to Watch: NFL, WNBA, PGA Tour, NCAA Basketball + Football, March Madness, Big 3, NWSL & More
    • Try Paramount+ for 7 Days Free

Paramount+ is the natural complement to the ESPN–FOX bundle for U.S. broadcast-driven sports as it features a diverse sports lineup:

  • CBS Sports content (NFL games carried by CBS, college football/basketball games on CBS, Army-Navy and Big Ten, Pac-12, Mountain West packages).
  • Golf coverage, including the Masters and PGA Tour rights held by CBS
  • Marquee WNBA matchups, WSL, and NWSL games highlight women’s sports on the platform
  • European club soccer and tournament feeds from UEFA, Serie A, USL Championship, AFC Asian Cup and others
  • Additional live coverage from regional/league partners and plenty of replay access.

Beginning next year, combat sports fans can find the Octagon on Paramount+ after the UFC agreed to an exclusive rights deal. Adding Paramount+ gives you the broadcast-rights muscle for key national matchups and marquee league windows that pair well with ESPN and FOX event stacks.

The Paramount+ Essential plan includes ads, and you get access to the NFL on CBS, UEFA Champions League, over 40,000 movies and shows, up to 3 simultaneous streams, and select SHOWTIME Originals. Upgrade to Premium and get an ad-free experience, full access to the SHOWTIME library, download movies and shows, and watch your local CBS feed for even more live sports and events.

Cord cutters who utilize Walmart+ can watch Paramount+ for free. Those going back to school save 50% with the Paramount+ student discount. The platform offers a 7-day free trial and you can sign up below.

Other Streamers Beyond the Traditional Networks

Outside of the Big Four broadcast networks and the Turner Networks, many tech companies have acquired rights to live sports. Some other options you may want to consider are:

  • Netflix: Starts at $7.99 per month, offers WWE Raw, boxing, the NFL on Christmas, select live events + thousands of shows, movies, documentaries and more
  • Prime Video: Starts at $8.99 per month after a 30-day free trial, includes NFL, NBA, WNBA, NASCAR, boxing, and more than 25,000 titles
  • Apple TV+: Starts at $9.99 per month after a 7-day free trial, includes MLB Friday Night Baseball, critically acclaimed shows, and movies. Additionally, MLS Season Pass on Apple TV features every MLS game without blackout restrictions.
  • NFL Sunday Ticket: The official home of live NFL out-of-market games streams on YouTube and YouTube TV, starting at $23 per month. (find out more here)

Keep in mind that a few streaming platforms are included or discounted as perks in other services you might already be paying for, such as Verizon Wireless and Home Internet, Boost By Kroger Plus, Straight Talk Unlimited, T-Mobile and Home Internet, and others.



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HFA Report: US Leads a Booming Global Fitness Market

HFA’s latest Global Report shows record memberships, rising revenues and booming wellness trends, signaling a worldwide industry in peak form and hungry for even more growth With half of 2025 in the books, one thing is clear from the Health & Fitness Association’s (HFA) newly released global report: more people worldwide are treating fitness as […]

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With half of 2025 in the books, one thing is clear from the Health & Fitness Association’s (HFA) newly released global report: more people worldwide are treating fitness as a necessity, not a luxury.

That is the main takeaway from the 2025 HFA Global Report, but it’s not the only one. There’s plenty to be encouraged by, as the global fitness industry started the year with strong momentum, propelled by record memberships in key markets, steady facility growth and a consumer shift toward treating their health as a priority.

“The Global Report is one of the most important resources we provide because it brings together market data, consumer trends, and policy developments from across the world in one place,” HFA president and CEO Liz Clark said. “It offers a clear picture of where the industry is going and how stakeholders can help shape its future.”

The comprehensive annual study is based on insights from operators, financial data and market analysis in more than 60 countries, taking the pulse of the global fitness industry and where it’s headed next. It also spotlights policy developments from countries such as Australia, Brazil and the United States, markets where fitness is gaining recognition as a vital contributor to public health, tax reform and healthcare integration.

Here are some noteworthy insights from the 2025 HFA Global Report:

US Remains on Top, but Global Markets Are Ripe for Growth

The U.S. remains the largest fitness market, with high penetration and a broad spectrum of offerings from high-value, low-price (HVLP) gyms to luxury clubs. 

Industry sentiment is also overwhelmingly optimistic: 91% of operators expect revenue gains, 83% anticipate improved profitability and a majority are projecting membership growth in 2025, according to the report.

Such confidence is fueling an aggressive search for new opportunities, particularly in markets where penetration remains low. Countries like India, Japan and Saudi Arabia are beginning to draw serious interest from global operators. The HFA report notes early moves from international brands in these regions, from new market entries to franchise deals.

new Gym
credit: GymNation

GymNation, one of the GCC’s fastest-growing fitness chains, has opened a new headquarters in Riyadh, unveiled senior hires and is preparing to surpass 50 locations by year-end. Its first Saudi club, in Riyadh’s Qurtubah District, drew more than 7,000 founding members ahead of its June 20 opening.

International franchises are also staking their claim. Body Fit Training (BFT), the Australian-born, Xponential Fitness-owned backed brand known for its strength-focused group workouts, has launched in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region with plans to open more than 50 studios over the next decade. A new flagship in Doha’s West Walk will anchor the expansion, with locations in Riyadh, Dubai, and Kuwait City slated within the next year.

Meanwhile, in India, a rapidly growing middle class and government-led wellness initiatives are creating fertile ground for new concepts. Additionally, easing inflation, higher disposable incomes and greater public spending on physical activity are expected to sustain global industry growth through 2025.

M&A Reshapes the Market

Consolidation defined the fitness industry in 2024, with major mergers and acquisitions reshaping the competitive fitness arena. Leading the charge was the formation of Purpose Brands, created through the merger of Self Esteem Brands and Orangetheory Fitness. The combined entity marked one of the biggest fitness industry consolidations in recent memory, generating $3.5 billion in system-wide sales across a portfolio of brands that spans 7,000-plus locations in nearly 50 countries.

Other headline-grabbing deals further altered the map. PureGym expanded its North American footprint with the $121 million acquisition of Blink Fitness, adding more than 100 locations to its network. LA Fitness also bolstered its regional presence, acquiring XSport Fitness to grow in key U.S. markets.

See Also

Personal trainer working out with client

M&A was also a hot topic at the ATN Innovation Summit in June, where McKinsey & Company’s Eric Falardeau and Jeff Rudnicki, along with L Catterton’s Marc Magliacano, stressed that M&A is a tool, not a strategy, and urged operators to reframe the question from “What’s our M&A plan?” to “What’s our strategy, and how can M&A accelerate it?”

Strength Training Dominates Floor Plans

credit: Photo by Sven Mieke on Unsplash

Strength training continues to reshape club design, with strength zones now occupying 42% of modern gym floor space, the highest share on record, per HFA. By comparison, cardio areas have shrunk to 12% while functional training zones account for 15% of total space.

AI Adoption Shows Generational Divide

When it comes to AI in fitness and wellness, younger consumers are miles ahead. Nearly two-thirds of Gen Z (and a strong share of Millennials) have tried an AI-powered app, compared with just 17% of Baby Boomers, HFA noted in its report, citing data from ABC Fitness’ recent Wellness Watch report. Once people start, they tend to stick with it: almost half of adopters use AI daily, tapping tools for everything from personalized workout plans and nutrition advice to recovery tracking and mental wellness support. 

Frequent users report feeling more motivated and seeing better results, but older generations remain cautious, often citing privacy concerns and a preference for human coaching.

For operators, the takeaway is to meet members where they are. HFA’s report suggests integrating AI features into the broader member experience, such as personalized programming or progress tracking, and using them to enhance, not replace, human interaction. Education is also key, particularly for older members, to build trust and highlight clear benefits.

The complete 2025 HFA Global Report is now available for download here





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