The rapid growth of free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channels has created new opportunities for content owners, but the business model still has room for improvement. According to Dave Bernath, CEO of Wurl, three areas deserve immediate attention: monetization, data transparency, and content discovery. He argues that many platforms retain too much of the advertising revenue, making it difficult for content creators to sustain and expand their offerings. Greater access to performance data would also help publishers better understand audiences and optimize programming.
Bernath also points to the need for standardized audience measurement across streaming platforms. Without a unified way to measure viewership across services, advertisers struggle to understand the true reach of FAST content and invest confidently in the space. Combined with more innovative discovery tools that help viewers navigate an increasingly crowded marketplace, these changes could create a healthier ecosystem for platforms, content owners, advertisers, and audiences alike.