The United States government has moved against Tencent-linked companies, including Riot Games and Epic Games. 

According to Bloomberg, the US Treasury’s Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S. (CFIUS), has ordered the companies to provide information on security protocols related to user data, because of their ties to Chinese conglomerate Tencent Holdings. 

Riot Games is wholly owned by League of Legends and Valorant developer Riot Games, and owns 40% of Fortnite developer Epic Games. 

Sanctions against WeChat and TikTok enacted

The United States Department of Commerce has also announced sanctions against WeChat and TikTok – enforcing President Trump’s executive order issued last month. According to the New York Times, the services are currently used by more than 100 million people in the United States. 

From 20 September, the following will be prohibited:

• Any provision of service to distribute or maintain the WeChat or TikTok mobile applications, constituent code, or application updates through an online mobile application store in the U.S.
• Any provision of services through the WeChat mobile application for the purpose of transferring funds or processing payments within the U.S.

And, from 20 September for WeChat, and 12 November for TikTok, the following will also be prohibited:

• Any provision of internet hosting services enabling the functioning or optimization of the mobile application in the U.S.
•  Any provision of content delivery network services enabling the functioning or optimization of the mobile application in the U.S..
• Any provision directly contracted or arranged internet transit or peering services enabling the function or optimization of the mobile application within the U.S..
•  Any utilization of the mobile application’s constituent code, functions, or services in the functioning of software or services developed and/or accessible within the U.S.

Justifying the action, the order says:

“While the threats posed by WeChat and TikTok are not identical, they are similar. Each collects vast swaths of data from users, including network activity, location data, and browsing and search histories. 

“Each is an active participant in China’s civil-military fusion and is subject to mandatory cooperation with the intelligence services of the CCP.  This combination results in the use of WeChat and TikTok creating unacceptable risks to our national security.”

While Commerce Secretary, Wilbur Ross, added:

“Today’s actions prove once again that President Trump will do everything in his power to guarantee our national security and protect Americans from the threats of the Chinese Communist Party.”

Though WeChat will be effectively shut down in the US from 20 September, TikTok will still be allowed to function until 12 November because it is in talks regarding a possible acquisition by US software company Oracle. However, from 20 September US TikTok users will not be able to access updates or maintenance. 

As to be expected, major tech companies have protested against the government’s actions, and there is speculation that giants like Google and Apple could launch legal action against the Trump administration, citing the actions as a breach of the First Amendment. 

AYO.NEWS says:

Though the sanctions against WeChat and TikTok were expected, they will still hit many US companies and users hard – with TikTok having quickly become one of the fastest growing social media platforms. 

The orders targeting Riot Games and Epic Games are concerning, given those companies’ importance to the video games and esports industry. While it’s tempting to believe the US would never take such drastic action against them, due to their economic value to the US economy, 2020 has already proved anything can happen.

With the United States Department of Commerce’s justifications for its sanctions against WeChat and TikTok echoing those given recently by the Indian government, for its action in banning over a hundred Chinese-linked apps, including PUBG Mobile, its possible they could use similar justifications for more action against Riot and Epic. 

Are video games and apps becoming the new virtual front line in the Cold War of the 21st Century, and does COVID-19 fit into this whole drama anywhere? Tense times are ahead…

‘AYO.NEWS says’ features the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of Pentagon Digital Limited or its affiliates or associates.

All original content featured on this site is © Pentagon Digital Limited, 2020

Singapore-based Global Esports Federation (GEF) has announced a controversial partnership with the Arab Esports Federation (ARESF).

The strategic partnership follows the GEF’s recent landmark agreement with the Olympic Council of Asia, and will see the federation expand its in-depth work to support the growth of the esports ecosystem in the Arab region and Africa. 

According to the GEF, it will work with the ARSEF to “identify relevant opportunities within the vibrant and emerging landscape in the region; and convene a partnership that focuses on advancing forward-thinking and future-oriented initiatives in service to the esports community.”

Discussing the partnership HRH Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud, President, Arab Esports Federation, said:

“The Arab region presents truly dynamic development opportunities for esports to thrive. We are optimistic about the future of esports.

“Esports in this region has been on the rise. This latest collaboration between the Arab Esports Federation and the Global Esports Federation allows us to create an inclusive expansion strategy that serves our communities and delivers holistic growth opportunities for esports to continue to develop; as well as giving our youth access to unparalleled global opportunities.”

While President, Global Esports Federation, Chris Chan, added:

“We are honored to partner with the Arab Esports Federation, under the leadership of its President, HRH Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud, to maximize the potential of esports, for good. 

“This latest partnership will further expand on our mission in establishing a unified vision and strategy for youth in the region with a global perspective, as well as intensifying our convening effort of the world’s esports ecosystem.”

AYO.NEWS says:

The GEF needs to tread extremely carefully on this one. While there’s no doubt the Arab world has a promising esports scene, that should be supported, any organisation that gives its tacit or implied support to an organisation headed by a member of the House of Saud – one of the world’s most brutally oppressive and bigoted regimes – is not likely to win many friends in the global esports community – just ask Riot Games or BLAST about that one! 

‘AYO.NEWS says’ features the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of Pentagon Digital Limited or its affiliates or associates. 

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Allied Esports has revealed the recent VIE.gg CS:GO Legend Series tournament drew a record 1.7 million unique viewers. 

The two-week competition, which ended on Sunday 13 September, generated over 1 million hours watched, and reached 98,000 peak viewers, making it the company’s most-watched Legend Series event since the tournament series was created in 2017. 

Produced at Allied Esports’ HyperX Esports Studio in Hamburg, Germany, the professional Counter-Strike: Global Offensive tournament was a truly global event, being broadcast on Twitch in six languages – English, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, French and German – and on Chinese streaming platform HUYA in both English and Chinese.  Notably, the online event was also the first esports tournament registered for legal betting in the state of New Jersey. 

It was also the first tournament in the Legend Series to include a licensing partner and title sponsor, thanks to a partnership with Esports Entertainment Group. As a result EEG says it saw a 400% increase in new users and a 300% increase in deposits on its VIE.gg platform, compared to the same period in the prior month.

Reflecting on the tournament, CEO of Allied Esports Entertainment, Frank Ng, said:

“The VIE.gg CS:GO Legend Series is a great example of the ability of our tournaments to deliver dedicated content to an enthusiastic, engaged audience, and we will continue to develop these brands to meet the needs of partners as the esports industry continues to evolve.

“This tournament was an excellent start to our partnership with Esports Entertainment Group, as we introduced their wagering platform to millions of people around the world, and we look forward to creating more valuable content with them in the near future.”

While CEO of Esports Entertainment Group, Grant Johnson, added:

“We are absolutely thrilled with the viewership numbers for the VIE.gg CS:GO Legend Series, a new benchmark for Allied Esports and a great introduction of our VIE.gg brand to fans around the world.

“Working with the team at Allied Esports on this tournament has been a great experience, and we’re already in discussions for the next event.”

The VIE.gg CS:GO Legend Series was Allied Esports seventh edition of the CS:GO Legend Series, and 13th overall, with previous versions featuring VALORANT, League of Legends, Call of Duty, Overwatch, and FIFA. 

AYO.NEWS says:

Well, that’s certainly a great result for everyone involved, especially EEG, which is trying to establish its VIE.gg platform as the premier esports betting choice – no mean feat with opposition like Luckbox, Unikrn, LOOT.BET and many other quality operators out there. 

It just goes to show how effective a well-planned and produced title sponsorship can be in the esports ecosystem. We’re sure we’ll see more collaborations between Allied Esports and Esports Entertainment Group in the near future. 

Staying with EEG, last month the company announced a long-term partnership with esports odds and risk management provider Oddin. 

‘AYO.NEWS says’ features the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of Pentagon Digital Limited or its affiliates or associates. 

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Sports marketing and management company Playfly Sports has acquired Collegiate StarLeague (CSL), and WorldGaming Network (WGN). 

Philadelphia-based Playfly Sports has said it will now focus on “enhancing the amateur esports-athlete experience and increasing opportunities for participation on high school and college campuses nationwide.” 

Both  CSL and WGN will continue to operate as independent brands, and they will be complemented by the launch of Playfly Sports’ esports division – which will be led by Nerd Street Gamers COO and Philadelphia Flyers exec. Rob Johnson, who will be leaving his current position at the start of October. 

Discussing plans, Johnson said:

“This dynamic new partnership will enable us to expand innovative esports offerings to existing and potential partners in college, high school, and traditional sports. I’m looking forward to working closely with Wim and Michael in making Playfly Sports esports’ industry leader.”

While CEO of Collegiate StarLeague, Wim Stocks, added:

“With strong relationships across all four major professional sports leagues, we have a great opportunity to help traditional sports leagues and organizations connect with the fans and drive new forms of engagement,” added Stocks. “Playfly Sports gives us a scale platform to extend the reach of our industry-leading offerings and help entities navigate the world of esports.”

Collegiate StarLeague, which now has over 1,800 schools and 11,000 teams across its network in the United States and Canada, will operate as a subsidiary of Playfly Sports, and will continue to offer online league operations, intramural leagues, content creation, advisory services, and on-campus events. 

Amateur and semi-pro esports tournament company WorldGaming Network, which holds partnerships with the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL, will also operate as a subsidiary of Playfly Sports. 

Looking to the future, Founder and CEO of Playfly Sports, Michael Schreiber, said:

“At Playfly Sports, we are committed to advancing the mission of student-athletes and believe that bringing CSL and WGN into the Playfly family will enable us to reach new students and enhance the experience of existing gamers. We are also looking for new partnerships with institutions focused on growth and innovation and believe esports will be a significant part of the future.”

Playfly Sports also recently acquired OUTFRONT Media Sports LLC, a company managing exclusive college and high school multi-media rights. 

AYO.NEWS says:

Playfly Sports latest acquisitions give it a sizable presence in the rapidly growing US collegiate, amateur, and semi-pro esports scene, and will open up a whole new world of commercial opportunities. 

‘AYO.NEWS says’ features the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of Pentagon Digital Limited or its affiliates or associates. 

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Danish esports tournament organiser BLAST has entered a deal with blockchain company Hdac Technology. 

The partnership will see Hdac Technology branding featured throughout the BLAST Premier Country-Strike: Global Offensive circuit – including the Fall Series, Showdown, and Finals – in addition to content and giveaways. 

‘The Economy Play’, a broadcast integration featuring analysis of economy rounds, dissecting how teams choose to spend money on weapons, will also be sponsored by the blockchain company. 

Discussing the partnership Commercial Director for BLAST, Leo Matlock, said:

“BLAST and Hdac share a passion and focus on innovation and technology, which makes this partnership the perfect fit. In esports, our key audience are naturally more attuned to new technologies and pioneering industries – making them more open minded to the world of cryptocurrency and blockchain.

“We look forward to developing our partnership and are excited to see what can be achieved by bringing blockchain technology into the world of esports and Counter-Strike.”

While Senior Director for Hdac Technology, Hyun Jun Shin, added:

“We’re really excited to partner with BLAST and have a chance to collaborate on various unique pieces of content for the esports and gaming community, who are very tech savvy and open to investment in cryptocurrency. 

“As a proactive blockchain company who are invested in the esports industry including sponsoring the G2 Esports team, we are looking forward to engaging with the global audience.”

Hdac Technology is based in Zug, Switzerland (aka ‘Crypto Valley’), and the company also has a branch in Seoul, South Korea. Its platform, RIZON, combines blockchain with other core tech including IoT, Cloud, and Big Data, to provide a decentralised platform that meets a variety of needs. 

Specifically, RIZON optimises performance through its new ‘Friday Consensus’ system, providing fast general purpose WASM-based smart contracts, and human readable ID’s, SDK, and chain customisation. 

AYO.NEWS says:

Yep, we absolutely agree with Leo and Hyun, those involved in the esports scene tend to be very enthusiastic about the blockchain world too, so this seems like the perfect partnership, and we’re sure it will inspire other esports organisations to partner with blockchain and emerging tech companies. 

Staying with BLAST, last week the company announced its entry into Riot Games’ VALORANT, with a planned Ignition Series tournament for the title. 

‘AYO.NEWS says’ features the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of Pentagon Digital Limited or its affiliates or associates. 

All original content featured on this site is © Pentagon Digital Limited, 2020

Bayes has closed a $6M USD funding round, attracting investment from Pohlad Family investment group, Fertitta Capital and Sony Innovation Fund.

The company says it will use the new capital to further expand the data and content offering on its platform, and to develop new features to benefit both data suppliers and consumers.

Formerly known as DOJO Madness, Bayes turned profitable in 2020, driven by significant continued revenue growth year-over-year. The substance of the company’s activities is formed by Bayes Esports, which was founded in 2019 in partnership with Sportradar and Shadow.GG – the professional esports analytics and visualisation suite. 

Over the past year, the company has secured significant data partnerships with the likes of ESL and Riot Games. 

Commenting on the news Co-Founder and Managing Director of Bayes, Jens Hilgers, said:

“With our two business units, we are able to provide a never-seen-before depth of data when it comes to professional esports tournaments and matches globally. This provides a great starting point for the creation of new services and products leading to greater entertainment offerings for the esports fans and community.”

While Bayes investor Charlie Pohlad added: 

“The collection, refinement and distribution of esports leagues’ data, combined with the provision of products on top of it, is necessary to further professionalize the esports ecosystem and grow the overall market. 

“We have high conviction in the Bayes team, and believe that Bayes’ technology and esports data platform represent the best solution for all stakeholders to advance the industry at large.”

AYO.NEWS says:

With capital thin on the ground at the moment due to the ongoing COVID-19 economic woes, securing an investment like this is a massive vote of confidence in Bayes, and shows that, despite all the doom and gloom out there, esports still offers real opportunities. 

‘AYO.NEWS says’ features the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of Pentagon Digital Limited or its affiliates or associates. 

All original content featured on this site is © Pentagon Digital Limited, 2020