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$220M SPAC IPO: Oyster Enterprises II Targets Tech, AI and Digital Assets

Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp has announced the upsized pricing of its IPO of 22,000,000 units at $10.00 per unit, totaling $220 million. The units will trade on Nasdaq under symbol “OYSEU” starting May 22, 2025. Each unit includes one Class A ordinary share and one right […]

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Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp has announced the upsized pricing of its IPO of 22,000,000 units at $10.00 per unit, totaling $220 million. The units will trade on Nasdaq under symbol “OYSEU” starting May 22, 2025. Each unit includes one Class A ordinary share and one right to receive 1/10 of a Class A share upon business combination completion.

The company is a blank check company targeting sectors including technology, media, entertainment, sports, consumer products, financial services, real estate, and hospitality, with a focus on AI and blockchain companies. Led by CEO Mario Zarazua and Chairman Heath Freeman, the company has granted underwriters a 45-day option to purchase up to 3,300,000 additional units. BTIG, LLC serves as the sole book-running manager for the offering.

Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp ha annunciato il prezzo aumentato della sua IPO di 22.000.000 di unità a 10,00 $ per unità, per un totale di 220 milioni di dollari. Le unità saranno quotate al Nasdaq con il simbolo “OYSEU” a partire dal 22 maggio 2025. Ogni unità comprende un’azione ordinaria di Classe A e un diritto a ricevere 1/10 di un’azione di Classe A al completamento della combinazione aziendale.

L’azienda è una blank check company che si concentra su settori come tecnologia, media, intrattenimento, sport, prodotti di consumo, servizi finanziari, immobiliare e ospitalità, con particolare attenzione alle aziende di AI e blockchain. Guidata dal CEO Mario Zarazua e dal Presidente Heath Freeman, la società ha concesso agli underwriter un’opzione di 45 giorni per acquistare fino a 3.300.000 unità aggiuntive. BTIG, LLC è l’unico gestore del libro ordini per l’offerta.

Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp ha anunciado el aumento del precio de su OPV de 22,000,000 de unidades a 10.00 $ por unidad, totalizando 220 millones de dólares. Las unidades cotizarán en Nasdaq bajo el símbolo “OYSEU” a partir del 22 de mayo de 2025. Cada unidad incluye una acción ordinaria Clase A y un derecho a recibir 1/10 de una acción Clase A al completar la combinación de negocios.

La compañía es una blank check company enfocada en sectores como tecnología, medios, entretenimiento, deportes, productos de consumo, servicios financieros, bienes raíces y hospitalidad, con especial atención a empresas de IA y blockchain. Liderada por el CEO Mario Zarazua y el presidente Heath Freeman, la compañía ha otorgado a los suscriptores una opción de 45 días para comprar hasta 3,300,000 unidades adicionales. BTIG, LLC actúa como el único gestor principal del libro de órdenes para la oferta.

Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp단위당 10.00달러에 22,000,000 단위의 IPO 가격 상향을 발표했으며, 총 2억 2천만 달러에 달합니다. 해당 단위들은 2025년 5월 22일부터 Nasdaq에서 “OYSEU”라는 심볼로 거래될 예정입니다. 각 단위는 클래스 A 보통주 1주와 사업 결합 완료 시 클래스 A 주식 1/10주를 받을 권리를 포함합니다.

이 회사는 AI 및 블록체인 기업에 중점을 둔 기술, 미디어, 엔터테인먼트, 스포츠, 소비재, 금융 서비스, 부동산, 환대 산업을 목표로 하는 블랭크 체크 회사입니다. CEO 마리오 자라주아와 회장 히스 프리먼이 이끌며, 인수인들에게 45일간 최대 3,300,000 단위를 추가로 구매할 수 있는 옵션을 부여했습니다. BTIG, LLC가 이번 공모의 단독 주관사입니다.

Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp a annoncé l’augmentation du prix de son introduction en bourse de 22 000 000 d’unités à 10,00 $ par unité, ce qui représente un total de 220 millions de dollars. Les unités seront négociées sur le Nasdaq sous le symbole “OYSEU” à partir du 22 mai 2025. Chaque unité comprend une action ordinaire de classe A et un droit à recevoir 1/10 d’une action de classe A à la réalisation de la fusion d’entreprise.

La société est une société à chèque en blanc ciblant des secteurs tels que la technologie, les médias, le divertissement, le sport, les produits de consommation, les services financiers, l’immobilier et l’hôtellerie, avec un accent particulier sur les entreprises d’IA et de blockchain. Dirigée par le PDG Mario Zarazua et le président Heath Freeman, la société a accordé aux souscripteurs une option de 45 jours pour acheter jusqu’à 3 300 000 unités supplémentaires. BTIG, LLC agit en tant que gestionnaire unique du livre d’ordres pour cette offre.

Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp hat die Erhöhung des Preises für seinen IPO von 22.000.000 Einheiten zu je 10,00 $ bekanntgegeben, was insgesamt 220 Millionen Dollar ergibt. Die Einheiten werden ab dem 22. Mai 2025 unter dem Symbol “OYSEU” an der Nasdaq gehandelt. Jede Einheit umfasst eine Stammaktie der Klasse A sowie das Recht, nach Abschluss der Unternehmenszusammenführung 1/10 einer Klasse A Aktie zu erhalten.

Das Unternehmen ist eine Blank-Check-Gesellschaft, die sich auf Branchen wie Technologie, Medien, Unterhaltung, Sport, Konsumgüter, Finanzdienstleistungen, Immobilien und Gastgewerbe konzentriert, mit besonderem Fokus auf KI- und Blockchain-Unternehmen. Unter der Leitung von CEO Mario Zarazua und Vorsitzendem Heath Freeman hat das Unternehmen den Underwritern eine 45-tägige Option eingeräumt, bis zu 3.300.000 zusätzliche Einheiten zu erwerben. BTIG, LLC fungiert als alleiniger Book-Running-Manager für das Angebot.

Positive


  • Upsized IPO raising $220 million, showing strong initial investor interest

  • Diverse target sectors including high-growth areas like AI and blockchain

  • Experienced management team with backgrounds in technology and media

  • No warrant dilution, as the offering includes only share rights

Negative


  • No specific acquisition target identified yet

  • Typical SPAC risks including potential dilution upon business combination

  • Limited time to complete a business combination before potential liquidation

  • Competitive SPAC market may affect ability to find attractive targets

Insights


Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp raises $220M in upsized SPAC IPO, targeting tech, media, entertainment, and AI acquisition opportunities.

Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp has successfully priced its upsized IPO at $220 million, offering 22 million units at $10.00 per unit. This represents a significant capital raise in the SPAC market, particularly notable for its structure and focus areas.

The SPAC’s unit structure is somewhat distinctive, consisting of one Class A ordinary share and one right to receive one-tenth of a share upon business combination completion, with no warrants included. This structure potentially offers less dilution compared to traditional SPAC offerings that include warrants, which may signal management’s confidence in finding an attractive acquisition target.

Oyster has positioned itself with a broad yet strategic acquisition focus, targeting technology, media, entertainment, sports, consumer products, financial services, and real estate sectors. The explicit mention of AI companies and the blockchain ecosystem as potential targets aligns with current high-growth sectors that continue to attract significant investor interest.

The management team brings notable expertise, led by CEO Mario Zarazua and Chairman Heath Freeman, with additional board members including Divya Narendra, who has significant experience in the social media and fintech spaces. This leadership combination suggests strong networks in both traditional and emerging industries.

The 15% overallotment option (3.3 million additional units) granted to underwriters indicates healthy initial demand for this offering. With BTIG serving as the sole book-runner, this SPAC enters a market that has seen varying levels of activity following the boom-and-bust cycle of 2020-2021, suggesting potential confidence in the team’s ability to execute a valuable business combination.














Miami, Florida, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp (the “Company”) announced today the upsized pricing of its initial public offering of 22,000,000 units at a price of $10.00 per unit. The units are expected to be listed on the Nasdaq Global Market (“Nasdaq”) and begin trading tomorrow, May 22, 2025, under the ticker symbol “OYSEU.” Each unit consists of one Class A ordinary share and one right (the “Share Right”) to receive one tenth (1/10) of one Class A ordinary share upon the consummation of an initial business combination.  There are no warrants issued publicly or privately in connection with this offering. Once the securities constituting the units begin separate trading, the Class A ordinary shares and Share Rights are expected to be listed on Nasdaq under the symbols “OYSE” and “OYSER,” respectively. The offering is expected to close on May 23, 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. The Company has granted the underwriters a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 3,300,000 units at the initial public offering price to cover over-allotments, if any.

The Company is a blank check company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, amalgamation, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The Company may pursue an acquisition opportunity in any business, industry, sector or geographical location, but is focused on industries that align with the background of the Company’s management team and advisor, including technology, media, entertainment, sports, consumer products, financial services, real estate and hospitality. The Company will also focus on AI companies positioned to complement or disrupt those industries, as well as companies within the digital assets and blockchain ecosystem.

The Company’s management team is led by Mario Zarazua, its Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman, and Heath Freeman, its Chairman. In addition, the Board includes Divya Narendra, Lief Haniford and Jordan Fliegel. Randall D. Smith is an Advisor to the Company, and Mike Rollins is the Chief Financial Officer.

BTIG, LLC is acting as sole book-running manager for the offering.

The offering is being made only by means of a prospectus. When available, copies of the prospectus may be obtained from BTIG, LLC, Attention: 65 East 55th Street, New York, New York 10022, or by email at ProspectusDelivery@btig.com, or by accessing the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov.

A registration statement relating to the securities has been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and became effective on May 21, 2025. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements,” including with respect to the proposed initial public offering and search for an initial business combination. No assurance can be given that the offering discussed above will be completed on the terms described, or at all, or that the net proceeds will be used as indicated.

Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s registration statement and preliminary prospectus for the Company’s initial public offering filed with the SEC. Copies of these documents are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

Company Contact:

Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp
801 Brickell Avenue, 8th Floor
Miami, Florida, 33131
Attn: Mario Zarazua, CEO and Vice Chairman
mario@oysteracquisition.com
(786) 744-7720
www.oysteracquisition.com










FAQ



What is the IPO price and size for Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp (OYSEU)?


Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp priced its IPO at $10.00 per unit for 22,000,000 units, raising $220 million in total. The offering includes an over-allotment option for underwriters to purchase up to 3,300,000 additional units.


When will OYSEU stock start trading on Nasdaq?


OYSEU units are expected to begin trading on the Nasdaq Global Market on May 22, 2025.


What industries is Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp (OYSEU) targeting for acquisition?


The company is targeting technology, media, entertainment, sports, consumer products, financial services, real estate, hospitality, and companies within the AI and blockchain ecosystem.


Who is leading Oyster Enterprises II Acquisition Corp (OYSEU)?


The company is led by Mario Zarazua as Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman, and Heath Freeman as Chairman.


What does each OYSEU unit consist of?


Each unit consists of one Class A ordinary share and one right to receive one-tenth (1/10) of one Class A ordinary share upon the completion of an initial business combination. No warrants are included.








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hDrop Enters European Market with RCD Espanyol de Barcelona to Deliver Advanced Sweat Testing and Hydration Technology to Pro Sports

July 14, 2025 RCD Espanyol becomes the first European club to adopt hDrop; additional teams in football, basketball, cycling and endurance sports now piloting the world’s most accurate reusable sweat biosensor. Barcelona, Spain (July 14, 2025) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ — hDrop, the company behind the leading wearable sweat and hydration biosensor for sports, today announced its […]

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July 14, 2025

RCD Espanyol becomes the first European club to adopt hDrop; additional teams in football, basketball, cycling and endurance sports now piloting the world’s most accurate reusable sweat biosensor.

Barcelona, Spain (July 14, 2025) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/hDrop, the company behind the leading wearable sweat and hydration biosensor for sports, today announced its official entry into the European market through a distribution agreement with From Minus Zero (from@fromminuszero.com). The partnership will make hDrop’s reusable sweat sensor available to professional teams, amateur athletes and retail consumers across Europe.

hDrop enables athletes to measure real-time sweat rate, sodium loss and potassium loss, then translates those data into personalized hydration strategies that improve in-competition performance and accelerate recovery.

RCD Espanyol leads early adoption

LaLiga club RCD Espanyol is the first European team to integrate hDrop into its daily training workflow. By monitoring individual sweat profiles, the club’s sports science staff is tailoring electrolyte replacement protocols for each player. hDrop thanks Espanyol’s medical and nutrition teams for their collaboration and support.

World-class accuracy backed by science

  • hDrop is the world’s most accurate wearable sweat sensor, delivering 92 percent accuracy on sweat-loss measurement and 87 percent accuracy on sweat sodium loss from preliminary independently validated data.
  • Independent validation studies are under way at leading sports-science institutes, with peer-reviewed results expected later this year.

Designed for athletes, built for sustainability

Unlike single-use patches, hDrop is the only sweat sensing wearable that is fully reusable in the market, pairing a skin-safe sensor with a companion mobile app. Athletes receive:

  1. Pre-competition planning: personalized hydration and electrolyte intake guidelines based on historical sweat profiles.
  2. In-session monitoring: live feedback on fluid and sodium losses to prevent performance-limiting dehydration.
  3. Post-session analysis: comprehensive reports to fine-tune training and recovery protocols.

Multi-sport pilots and retail rollout

Beyond football, elite programs in basketball, cycling, athletics and triathlon are testing hDrop this summer. European retail points of sale will be announced in the coming weeks, making the technology accessible to recreational athletes who demand professional-grade insights.

Quotes

Adria Abella Villafranca, CEO of hDrop
“Our mission is to give every athlete the same precision hydration data that historically was limited to lab testing, providing the highest accuracy in the market. Partnering with From Minus Zero accelerates that vision across Europe.”

Curro Genova, From Minus Zero
“hDrop’s accuracy lets us personalize hydration for each player in real time, reducing cramp risk and improving late-match performance. We are ready to onboard more retailers and sport teams interested in the technology.”

About hDrop

hDrop is a sports-technology company dedicated to advancing human performance through biosensing. Its flagship product is a reusable wearable that measures sweat rate, sodium and potassium loss with laboratory-level accuracy, delivering actionable hydration insights to athletes of all levels.

About From Minus Zero

From Minus Zero is a European distributor specializing in performance-enhancing sports technologies. The company partners with innovators worldwide to bring cutting-edge products to professional teams and consumers across Europe.





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First Brain Fitness Tracker Validated for Aging Independently

Posit Science Large Implications for Aging Research and Monitoring Abilities SAN FRANCISCO, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A new study shows that a novel online assessment (here) provides a valid scientific measure of the cognitive abilities of older adults related to living independently. The self-administered assessment can be completed in four minutes on most […]

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Posit Science
Posit Science

Large Implications for Aging Research and Monitoring Abilities

SAN FRANCISCO, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A new study shows that a novel online assessment (here) provides a valid scientific measure of the cognitive abilities of older adults related to living independently. The self-administered assessment can be completed in four minutes on most internet-connected devices (phones, tablets, computers) — with large implications for monitoring and improving cognitive aging. The assessment was developed by Posit Science, the maker of BrainHQ brain training exercises and assessments, and it was examined as part of an NIH-funded study in collaboration with university-based researchers.

“This is a game-changer in our ability to monitor and manage successful aging,” observed Dr. Henry Mahncke, CEO of Posit Science. “Maintaining the ability to live independently is one of the greatest concerns about growing older, yet it’s rarely measured because of a lack of easily accessible tools. It can take a long time to schedule an office visit for a full battery of neuropsychological tests, and few people do so. Now, here’s a new tool you could use as a brain fitness tracker — to permit ongoing monitoring.”

The study examined whether a very short, self-administered, online test could provide a quick look at the “executive function” cognitive abilities of older adults. Executive function includes key cognitive building blocks (such as planning, flexibility, and inhibitory control), which underpin the goal-directed behaviors needed to maintain independent living.

“Clinician-administered batteries of cognition are the preferred source for insight into cognitive aging — especially to assist with diagnostic decisions,” said Dr. Mahncke. “We were looking for a brief, self-administered assessment that might be used, after an in-person examination (as it was in this study), for relatively quick, and perhaps more frequent, monitoring purposes.”

The study, conducted at McGill University, was designed to assess the usability and validity of Freeze Frame, a cognitive assessment available on the BrainHQ platform, in predicting executive function performance in healthy older adults. Performance on Freeze Frame was analyzed in relation to self-reported demographic variables and to neuropsychological function, using NIH-EXAMINER, a widely adopted measure of executive function.

Freeze Frame is designed to measure inhibitory control (a critical component of executive function), which is the rapid ability to suppress impulsive reactions in favor of task-relevant actions in rapidly changing environments — to support cognitive flexibility, working memory, and goal focus.



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Sports Tech’s Sustainability Crisis & Solutions: India’s Green Opportunity

The global sports technology industry stands at a critical crossroads where innovation meets environmental responsibility. While technological advancements have revolutionized athletic performance, fan engagement, and sports management, they have also introduced complex environmental challenges that demand urgent attention. The modern sports ecosystem generates a carbon footprint equivalent to a medium-sized country, yet it simultaneously offers […]

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The global sports technology industry stands at a critical crossroads where innovation meets environmental responsibility. While technological advancements have revolutionized athletic performance, fan engagement, and sports management, they have also introduced complex environmental challenges that demand urgent attention. The modern sports ecosystem generates a carbon footprint equivalent to a medium-sized country, yet it simultaneously offers unprecedented opportunities for sustainable solutions through the intelligent application of green technologies.

Environmental Challenges of Modern Sports Technology:

  • Data Centres: Powering live streams, VR replays, and real-time analytics for millions, these facilities consume vast resources. A single centre can use 3-5 million gallons of water daily (a small city’s need). Streaming in 4K generates 300-700 grams of CO2 per hour, while mobile viewing increases emissions tenfold versus broadband.

  • Equipment Manufacturing: Traditional gear relies heavily on non-recyclable plastics and petroleum-based composites. A typical bicycle helmet combines polycarbonate, polystyrene, polypropylene, and nylon, destined for incineration after 3-5 years. E-waste from smart equipment adds further disposal complexities.

  • Device Footprint: While a single smartphone generates ~8 kg CO2e during use, the cumulative impact of billions of devices globally is immense. Mains-powered equipment like TVs (595-545 kg CO2e) contributes significantly during operation

Green Innovations & Sustainable Solutions in Sports Tech

Despite the challenges, sports tech pioneers are driving impressive sustainability solutions:

  • Renewable-Powered Venues: Solar adoption has exploded. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway leads with nearly 40,000 panels. Crucially, while only 3 venues used solar pre-2008, nearly 80% of current solar sports facilities were built between 2010-2015.

  • Sustainable Materials: Bio-based plastics from corn, sugarcane, and algae are replacing petroleum derivatives. Recycled polyester from plastic bottles conserves resources. Advanced composites using bamboo, flax, or hemp offer structural integrity with lower environmental impact.

  • Smart & Efficient Infrastructure: AI-driven systems optimize stadium energy use for lighting, heating, and cooling. LED technology drastically cuts consumption. 3D printing enables custom-fit equipment with minimal material waste.

  • Digital Alternatives: VR training reduces the need for travel and resource-intensive facilities. Virtual fan engagement cuts travel emissions. Shared viewing (home or venue screens) remains the lowest-carbon option per fan.

  • Circular Economy Initiatives: Programs like Project Re-Bounce divert equipment from landfills through reuse and waste-to-energy. Manufacturers focus on durability, creating gear lasting 5-10 times longer, reducing supply chain emissions.

Data Centres and Digital Consumption Challenges

The hidden environmental cost of sports digitalization lies in data centre operations that power modern sports experiences. Data centres supporting sports streaming consume enormous resources, with typical facilities using 3-5 million gallons of water daily, equivalent to a small city’s needs. These centres operate 24/7 to provide real-time analytics, streaming services, and global content delivery, contributing to accelerating energy consumption as billions of devices join the Internet of Things.

Streaming quality directly impacts environmental footprint, with 4K content producing 300-700 grams of CO2 per hour, depending on infrastructure efficiency. Mobile data transmission increases carbon footprint by at least ten times compared to broadband connections, with watching a complete game via mobile data generating emissions equivalent to driving ten miles in an average car. The rapid emergence of hyperscale data centers has literally doubled energy consumption to 100 terawatt-hours annually.

However, innovative solutions are emerging to address these challenges. Edge computing brings processing closer to users, reducing latency and energy consumption through distributed infrastructure. Advanced cooling systems and energy-efficient server technologies minimize environmental impact while maintaining performance standards. Some data centres are adopting renewable energy sources and implementing comprehensive sustainability frameworks.

Market Trends Toward Sustainability

The sports equipment market is experiencing significant shifts toward sustainable products driven by consumer demand and environmental awareness. Companies are developing equipment using bio-based resins from soybeans, castor oil, and algae that offer comparable performance to petroleum-based alternatives while reducing environmental impact. Sustainable composite materials derived from bamboo, flax, and hemp maintain structural integrity while promoting environmental responsibility.

The integration of green technologies into composite materials has led to innovations producing more durable and high-performing equipment. Manufacturers focus on creating long-lasting products that reduce global carbon footprints through extended lifecycles, with some equipment lasting 5-10 times longer than standard alternatives. This approach reduces not only product carbon footprints but also supply chain emissions from manufacturing to consumer delivery.

Recycling programs are expanding to address end-of-life equipment disposal challenges. Project Re-Bounce, operating across British Columbia, diverts sports equipment from landfills through waste-to-energy facilities while promoting reuse opportunities for equipment in donation-quality condition. These programs demonstrate how systematic approaches can address both immediate disposal needs and long-term environmental goals.

How Sustainable Sports Technology Can Transform Indian Sports and the Sports Ecosystem

Addressing India’s Environmental and Sports Development Challenges

India’s sports industry faces unique sustainability challenges due to rapid urbanization, pollution pressures, and climate change impacts that make environmental considerations not just global expectations but national imperatives. The country’s sports ecosystem relies heavily on materials and processes that, while effective, often come at significant environmental cost. Cricket bats crafted from willow, hockey sticks made from wood or composites, and equipment dependent on synthetic materials exemplify this reliance on forest-sourced and fossil fuel-derived materials.

India’s sports technology market, valued at USD 442.4 million in 2024 and projected to reach USD 1,479.2 million by 2033 at a 13.32% CAGR, provides substantial opportunities for sustainable technology integration. The broader sports technology sector is expected to reach Rs 49,500 crore by 2029, growing at a 13% CAGR, demonstrating sufficient market scale to support major sustainability initiatives.

Leveraging India’s Innovation Capabilities for Green Sports Technology

India’s position as a technology and manufacturing hub creates unique opportunities for developing cost-effective, sustainable sports solutions. The country’s expertise in information technology, combined with growing manufacturing capabilities through initiatives like “Make in India,” positions it to lead in sustainable sports technology development. Local manufacturers could adapt proven green technologies for Indian market conditions while maintaining affordability for price-sensitive consumers.

The integration of applied physics, engineering, and material science into sports equipment manufacturing could help India set global sustainability benchmarks. Advanced materials research can develop sustainable substitutes for traditional equipment while maintaining or enhancing performance characteristics. For instance, bamboo composite cricket bats or biodegradable synthetic materials for various sports equipment could revolutionize Indian sports manufacturing.

Indian startups and research institutions could pioneer innovative solutions like 3D-printed custom equipment that minimizes material waste, smart textiles that enhance performance while reducing environmental impact, and energy-efficient manufacturing processes powered by renewable energy. The country’s strong IT ecosystem enables the development of smart sports technologies that optimize resource consumption and reduce environmental footprints.

Creating Sustainable Sports Infrastructure

India’s expanding sports infrastructure development provides opportunities to integrate sustainability from the ground up. The government’s Khelo India program and investments in sports facilities through the Sports Authority of India create foundations for implementing green building standards, renewable energy systems, and sustainable facility management practices.

Smart stadium technologies adapted for Indian conditions could optimize energy consumption in the country’s diverse climate zones while reducing operational costs for sports organizations. Solar power systems are particularly viable given India’s abundant sunshine, while rainwater harvesting and waste management systems can address local environmental challenges.

Virtual and augmented reality training systems could democratize access to high-quality coaching while reducing travel requirements for athletes across India’s vast geography. These technologies enable world-class training experiences in remote areas without requiring expensive physical infrastructure or travel to major sporting centres.

Supporting Circular Economy Development

India’s growing focus on circular economy principles aligns well with sustainable sports technology development. The country could establish comprehensive sports equipment recycling programs that address both domestic waste and create economic opportunities. Given India’s large sports equipment manufacturing sector, implementing extended producer responsibility frameworks could drive innovation in sustainable design and end-of-life management.

The development of refurbishment and upcycling programs for sports equipment could create employment opportunities while reducing waste. Community-based programs that collect, repair, and redistribute sports equipment could support grassroots sports development while promoting environmental responsibility.

India’s textile recycling capabilities, which already demonstrate a 69% recycling rate compared to less than 20% globally, provide a foundation for expanding circular practices into sports textiles and equipment. Clusters like those in Panipat, Tirupur, and Ludhiana could integrate sports equipment recycling into existing circular ecosystems.

Building Environmental Awareness Through Sports

Sports’ cultural significance in India creates powerful opportunities for environmental education and behavior change. Athletes and sports organizations can serve as environmental ambassadors, promoting sustainable practices among millions of fans and participants. Cricket’s massive following, for instance, could drive significant environmental awareness if the sport embraces sustainability initiatives.

Digital platforms and apps could engage fans in environmental challenges related to sports consumption, from tracking carbon footprints of stadium visits to participating in equipment recycling drives. The integration of environmental metrics into fantasy sports and gaming applications could gamify sustainability while educating users about environmental impacts.

The path forward requires coordinated action across government, industry, and sports organizations to create a comprehensive, sustainable sports technology ecosystem. India’s combination of technological capabilities, manufacturing capacity, and sports enthusiasm positions it to lead global efforts in sustainable sports technology while supporting domestic sports development goals.

The Path Forward

The sustainability dilemma in sports technology represents both a challenge and an opportunity. While digital transformation and technological advancements have increased environmental impacts through data centres, manufacturing, and electronic waste, these same technologies offer unprecedented solutions for reducing the overall environmental footprint of sports. Solar-powered venues, sustainable materials, virtual training systems, and smart energy management demonstrate technology’s potential for positive environmental impact.

The future of sports technology lies in embracing circular economy principles, developing renewable energy infrastructure, and creating intelligent systems that optimize resource consumption. As environmental awareness grows and regulations tighten, sports organizations that proactively adopt sustainable technologies will gain competitive advantages while contributing to global climate goals.

For India specifically, the opportunity to lead sustainable sports technology development aligns with broader national objectives around environmental protection, technological innovation, and sports excellence. By integrating sustainability into sports technology from the outset, India can build a sports ecosystem that serves as a global model for environmental responsibility while supporting the country’s athletic ambitions.



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Affordable Wearables Drive Health & Sports Tech Boom In India

Democratizing Sports Science Access The affordability of Indian wearable brands creates unprecedented opportunities to democratize access to sports science tools across the country’s diverse sporting ecosystem. With 47% of respondents in India, China, and Indonesia purchasing wearables in the past 12 months, significantly higher than the global average of 28%, there is clear demand for […]

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Democratizing Sports Science Access

The affordability of Indian wearable brands creates unprecedented opportunities to democratize access to sports science tools across the country’s diverse sporting ecosystem. With 47% of respondents in India, China, and Indonesia purchasing wearables in the past 12 months, significantly higher than the global average of 28%, there is clear demand for accessible performance monitoring technology. This high adoption rate, combined with competitive pricing from domestic manufacturers, makes advanced sports monitoring capabilities available to athletes at all levels, from grassroots programs to elite training centers.



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Nifty 50 and Sensex Open Lower On July 14 As IT Stocks Decline

Stock Market Today: Indian markets, NIFTY 50 and SENSEX, opened lower today, Monday, July 14, 2025. This follows a weekend closure, with the last trading day being Friday, July 11, 2025. Adding to global market uncertainties, the ongoing Trump tariff war is driving demand for safe-haven assets like gold, impacting broader market sentiment. NIFTY 50 opened […]

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Stock Market Today: Indian markets, NIFTY 50 and SENSEX, opened lower today, Monday, July 14, 2025. This follows a weekend closure, with the last trading day being Friday, July 11, 2025. Adding to global market uncertainties, the ongoing Trump tariff war is driving demand for safe-haven assets like gold, impacting broader market sentiment.

NIFTY 50 opened at 25,145.50 points today. It shows a dip of 4.35 points or 0.02% dip from its previous close of 25,149.85 points on July 11.

The SENSEX also opened lower, at 82,370.00, representing a 130.47 point (0.16%) decrease from its previous close of 82,500.47 on July 11.

ALSO READ: Stock Market update: Nifty50 And Sensex Open In Green

This week’s stock benchmarks have been influenced by a mixed signal from global politics and daily domestic factors.

Market sentiment is being shaped by several key factors, including the ongoing Q1 earnings season. Major companies like HCL Tech, Rallis India, and Nelco are scheduled to announce their financial performance reports today, July 14, 2025.

Investors are also keenly watching key macroeconomic indicators, particularly India’s June CPI and WPI inflation data, both expected to be released today, July 14, 2025. These releases will provide deeper insights into pricing trends and could influence the RBI’s monetary policy perspective. Global trade uncertainties also continue to keep investors on edge.

Stock prices are expected to fluctuate significantly throughout the day, making the market unpredictable as investors react to these various triggers.

ALSO READ: Markets Fall After 4-Day Rally Dragged By Bank Stocks; Sensex Drops 452 Points

NIFTY 50 and SENSEX Trading Lower During the Day
As of the current time (mid-morning on July 14, 2025), both the NIFTY 50 and the SENSEX are trading in the red, reflecting continued caution.

The NIFTY 50 is trading below its key support levels, and the Sensex is also experiencing selling pressure. Technical indicators suggest short-term weakness, with analysts pointing to further support levels if the downward trend continues. The broader market sentiment remains low, with a focus on corporate earnings and upcoming stats data.



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As guardians of pay-per-view, Joe Hand Promotions remains wired in, evolving in its 54th year

On the night of a major boxing match or UFC card in America, Joe Hand Jr. might have as many as 1,000 people fanned out across the country doing investigations for him. Hand isn’t part of the FBI, or someone overseeing a spying enterprise. Instead, he’s a second-generation, third-party pay-per-view distributor running one of the […]

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On the night of a major boxing match or UFC card in America, Joe Hand Jr. might have as many as 1,000 people fanned out across the country doing investigations for him.

Hand isn’t part of the FBI, or someone overseeing a spying enterprise. Instead, he’s a second-generation, third-party pay-per-view distributor running one of the biggest companies in that cog of the machine that is American sports business.

Joe Hand Promotions acts as a broker between major sports leagues and broadcasters on one hand and thousands of commercial establishments — including chains and mom-and-pop bars — across America on the other. Those establishments pay JHP for the rights to show major sports events the company represents.

Founded in 1971, the Philadelphia-based company is a time-tested fixture in a bruising sector that is becoming more crowded. But it has lengthy relationships in the sport, including what UFC confirmed is the only vendor relationship that still exists from the year the Fertitta brothers and Dana White bought the company in 2001.

JHP mainly delivers its signals to establishments through DirecTV, but it also works with Dish and some cable companies and it’s starting to experiment more with streaming as the sports media industry adjusts to the generationally different technology.

Joe Hand Promotions

Headquarters: Feasterville, Pa.

Key executives:
Joe Hand Jr., president; Jason Joyce, vice president; Mike Tedesco, chief financial officer

Number of employees: Around 50

Specialty: Third-party commercial pay-per-view distributor

Without disclosing specifics, executives from JHP say that business remains brisk and they are happy with how the company is performing. The ever-evolving nature of technology and rise of streaming has brought about new revenue opportunities for PPV distributors, but it’s also led to new forms of piracy that eat into potential earnings.

“It’s of paramount importance,” David Shaw, UFC’s executive vice president and head of international and content, said of JHP’s efforts to prevent piracy at commercial establishments. “Most of our [commercial bar] buyers aren’t just in it to buy one fight here, one fight there; they’ve made an investment in UFC to be a destination for UFC programming, which basically means they’re showing 12 pay-per-views a year. If we can’t look that customer in the eye and give them comfort that we’re doing all that we can to protect the value of their transactions [by not allowing nearby bars to air the fight without paying for it], then we’re doing a disservice to our entire customer base, and it all kind of falls apart.”

On top of its relationships with leagues such as the UFC, JHP has deep ties on the commercial establishment side with the likes of Buffalo Wild Wings, Twin Peaks, Hooters and Dave & Buster’s; sportsbooks and casinos such as Caesars, MGM Grand and FanDuel; broadcasters such as ESPN and DAZN; and with nearly 10,000 independent sports bars, according to Tim McManus, senior director of content and partnerships for the company.

It distributes about 2,000 broadcasts a year and recently signed an extension with ESPN to distribute its ESPN+ for Business line of channels. That includes UFC Fight Nights but also international soccer, hundreds of college football and basketball games, and NHL, golf and soccer coverage.

Origins and relationships

Company founder Joe Hand Sr. transitioned from being a police officer in Philadelphia to investing in 1967 in the Cloverlay Corp., which managed the career of the late heavyweight champion Joe Frazier, before he later founded JHP in 1971.

Joe Hand Sr. (center) founded the company in 1971 and was later joined by his son, Joe Hand Jr., and daughter, Margaret Hand-Cicalese, who retired three years ago.
Joe Hand Sr. (center) founded the company in 1971 and was later joined by his son, Joe Hand Jr., and daughter, Margaret Hand-Cicalese, who retired three years ago. Courtesy of Joe Hand Promotions

Broadly speaking, the company says its business model can vary from straight revenue-sharing deals to other arrangements in which it pays a league or media company for the rights and then keeps all the fees from establishments. Pricing for the establishments is based on their fire-code occupancy.

Competitors of JHP include EverPass Media and G&G Closed-Circuit Events. While conceding that the sector is becoming more competitive, JHP believes it has differentiators that will keep it as one of the top players, namely its longevity and efforts to work closely with the different sides on objectives such as protecting the IP of leagues and events, and helping bars and casinos market and get the most out of their purchases.

Shaw, the UFC executive, said the UFC has been a repeat customer over 24 years because of the level of detail and work ethic that JHP puts into its relationships; that it knows combat sports well; and that it has local ties that help grease the wheels for the increasingly global property to remain rooted in places throughout the U.S. For example, he said, UFC research has shown that one of the top three reasons people buy PPVs is seeing marketing materials for the events, such as posters at bars. That points to why JHP says it is a priority to work with bars on letting them know the materials available to them.

“They’re in the trenches, they’re on the front lines — these are guys who care about the mom-and-pop store as much as they care about Buffalo Wild Wings,” Shaw said.

Given their longtime dependency on PPV as a revenue stream, combat sports operators list piracy as a major issue. It’s also a touchy topic among fans, with some saying that price-gouging by the promoters has fueled piracy. Former Showtime Sports President Stephen Espinoza, now at TV programming consultant, estimated to industry publication Boxing Scene last year that, on the low end, piracy was stripping the network of 30% of its potential buys.

JHP is not interested in cracking down on the average fan at home using an illegal stream, and is instead focused on commercial establishments — which takes things back to the 1,000 investigators.

“Talk about like a pebble in your shoe or rock in your shoe that you’re walking around with — I hate dealing with it,” Hand Jr. told SBJ. “But to be honest with you, in my opinion, piracy is probably a bigger issue now than it’s ever been.”

On the night of fights, Hand Jr. says, he’ll hire investigative companies that get access to the list of bars in a given city that have legally bought a PPV. If the investigators see an ad on social media or elsewhere about a bar saying it will have a PPV but is not on the list, “he’ll come out the night of the event, do a surveillance on the property and then report back to us that, ‘This is the information that they have,’” Hand Jr. said.

“A lot of times I get calls from bar owners that are in Philadelphia — and I’ve lived here my whole life — they’re like, ‘Joe, you’re suing me,’ and I’m like, ‘Hey, what can I tell you, you guys didn’t …’ [and they’ll say back,] ‘I wasn’t here, my manager thought it was the right thing to do, he brought his laptop in, they told me what happened, we really didn’t mean to do it,’ and I’ve got to wrestle with all that and deal with it,” Hand Jr. said. “But it is an enormous part of our business because there’s two entities that I’m trying to service here: The content partner, he wants me to be the sheriff of piracy … and the second one is I’m protecting the people that legally bought it.”

Changing with times

From the days of closed-circuit television to the streaming age, Hand Jr. says the company has always been able to adjust with the times. McManus said the company’s current day-to-day point of contact for UFC is only the fourth person the fighting property has dealt with in that position over 24 years, which he pointed to as the sort of customer service that has built its reputation.

Joe Hand Jr. continues to build on the relationships established by his late father as the company faces increased competition and adjusts to the rise of streaming. The two are shown here celebrating the company's 50th anniversary in 2021. The elder Hand died in 2024.
Joe Hand Jr. continues to build on the relationships established by his late father as the company faces increased competition and adjusts to the rise of streaming. The two are shown here celebrating the company’s 50th anniversary in 2021. The elder Hand died in 2024. Courtesy of Joe Hand Promotions

One way JHP has adjusted with the times is getting on board with Jake Paul, the professional boxer who is carving out a more serious career in recent years. While still regarded by some as part of the novelty boxing sub-sector of the sport, Paul generates sizable business. For his fight versus Mike Tyson at AT&T Stadium last November, JHP set a record for the most locations sold for a combat sport event, with 6,200 commercial establishments, according to McManus.

JHP’s business was the topic of a Reddit thread from r/BarOwners last year before that fight, as one person asked for feedback on whether he’d be able to air it without DirecTV.

“If you show the fight without paying Joe Hand, you are taking a HUGE risk,” one person responded. “I have been in business for over 35 years. I know what I’m talking about. Do not listen to anyone in here telling you a ‘secret way.’ Also don’t believe Netflix says it’s OK. It’s not up to them. Joe Hand can and will sue you, and you will lose.”

Shaw went as far as to call piracy an “existential threat” to the UFC, “so the demonstration that we consider copyright law to be very important and take it very seriously is another sort of important optical thing to have in the public eye.”

For Hand Jr., it’s all in a day’s work as he deals with a changing landscape. And guards the company’s turf.

“I feel like this is one of those periods of change that we’re bringing to the marketplace,” Hand Jr. said. “But very proud of where we are after 54 years, and excited about the future.”



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