The Financial Times has announced the full roster of senior executives who will take the stage at its upcoming Business of Entertainment Summit, set to take place in Los Angeles this September. Among the most notable additions are representatives from two of the world’s biggest game‑making powerhouses, Electronic Arts (EA) and Tencent Games, who will sit alongside a line‑up that already features heavyweights from the traditional media sphere such as Netflix, Sony Pictures, NBCUniversal and the parent company of UFC and WWE, TKO Group. GamesIndustry.biz serves as a promotional partner for the gathering, working in concert with its parent organization, IGNE Entertainment, to help publicise the event.
The summit is billed as a deep‑dive into the "forces reshaping entertainment," and it is designed to bring together decision‑makers from every corner of the entertainment ecosystem. Attendees will explore a broad range of subjects that are currently redefining how content is created, distributed, and monetised. Topics on the agenda include the evolving landscape of media dealmaking, the intricate web of franchise ecosystems, the expanding global cultural influence of entertainment brands, the resurgence of live‑event experiences, the emerging role of artificial intelligence in crafting personalised fan interactions, and the future pathways for monetising content in an increasingly digital world. One of the highlighted panels will feature David Tinson, who serves as President and Chief Operating Officer at EA.
Tinson will join senior leaders from Universal Entertainment and the narrative‑driven production company Madison Wells to discuss cross‑medium entertainment strategies—how video games, film, television and other formats can intersect to create richer, more immersive storytelling experiences. In a separate session, Tian Xiao, Head of North American Partnerships at Tencent Games, will address the rapid ascent of Asian cultural exports on the global stage, examining how Chinese gaming IPs and other media properties are gaining footholds in markets traditionally dominated by Western brands. The summit’s keynote roster is equally impressive. Bela Bajaria, Chief Content Officer at Netflix, will share insights into the streaming giant’s content strategy and its impact on global viewing habits.
Mark Shapiro, President and COO of TKO Group, will speak about the convergence of sports, combat entertainment and digital media. Ravi Ahuja, Chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures, will provide perspective on the studio’s approach to franchise development and international distribution. Additionally, David Lee, Chief Financial Officer of Webtoon, will discuss the monetisation of digital comics and the broader implications for creator‑centric platforms. Beyond the keynote speakers, the event will feature a diverse set of panelists and contributors from Amazon Prime Video, the Los Angeles Dodgers, Disney, Regal Global Entertainment and other influential organisations.
Executives from companies such as EA, Pokémon, Apple, Netflix, Sony Pictures and Paramount will be present, fostering a collaborative environment where ideas can cross‑pollinate across industries. Talent agencies also have a strong presence on the summit’s guest list. Representatives from Creative Artists Agency (CAA), United Talent Agency (UTA) and Verve Talent & Literary Agency will attend, underscoring the importance of talent representation and deal‑making in the modern entertainment economy. The Business of Entertainment Summit offers both digital and in‑person attendance options, allowing participants to join from anywhere in the world or to experience the event live in West Hollywood.
For readers of GamesIndustry.biz, a special promotional code—GIB20—provides a 20 percent discount on ticket purchases. The discount can be applied directly through the dedicated link provided to the readership, making the summit more accessible to professionals and enthusiasts within the gaming community. Overall, the summit promises to be a pivotal gathering for anyone interested in the intersection of gaming, film, television, sports and emerging technologies. By assembling leaders from both the interactive and linear media sectors, the Financial Times aims to spark conversations that will shape the next era of entertainment, offering attendees actionable insights, networking opportunities, and a glimpse into the future of how stories are told and experienced across the globe.