(21 September 2005 9:00 pm)

MUMBAI: Leading interactive digital entertainment operator Cellcast, which broadcasts shows on the BSkyB digital platform in the UK and on numerous channels in the Middle East, has announced the commencement of dealings on the London Stock Exchange.

Going forward, Cellcast proposes to widen its catalogue of programmes and is actively looking to expand overseas, particularly in India, China, and South America.

Cellcast’s entertainment shows are low cost productions which are mainly live broadcasts covering a variety of genres including talk shows, gameshows, reverse auctions, betting and gaming, astrology and psychic television, dating and chat and voting.

It has raised £5 million which will provide it with an implied market capitalisation of £20 million, the company has stated. Cellcast proposes to use the funds raised to expand its catalogue of programmes, generate additional viewers, invest in its proprietary technology and fund overseas expansion, particularly in India, China, and South America.

The group's plans include:

*Broadening distribution capabilities through regional satellite syndication by establishing local production and broadcast facilities serving India, Latin America, the United States, China and South-East Asia;

*Developing its applications and interactive programming into formats suitable for new media platforms including 3G, IPTV, enhanced broadband, mobile video and wireless broadband services;

*Taking advantage of the increasing functionality of mobile phones to deliver more sophisticated applications, appealing formats, and new premium services.