Merlin, the digital music licensing society for independent labels and distributors, has sealed a partnership with Pipeline, the newly-launched provider of financing solutions for the independent music sector. Under this initiative, Pipeline will provide Merlin member companies with advances against digital royalties generated by Merlin. The service is entirely optional and non-exclusive, as participation in the programme does not prevent Merlin members from entering into financing or commercia...

US music rights society BMI has appointed Todd Horvath as President and Chief Operating Officer, effective January 26. Horvath will report to BMI CEO Mike O’Neill. In his new role, he will "oversee the company’s ongoing efforts to modernise its platforms, identify new sources of revenue and improve the affiliate experience at BMI." He will divide his time between BMI’s Nashville and New York offices.

"Horvath’s addition to the BMI leadership team will enable O’Neill, who recently extended hi...

Australia's Copyright Tribunal has set a new rate for the use of sound recordings by commercial radio stations by increasing the current rate from 0.40% to 0.55% of gross industry revenue, a 38% rise. The measure is expected to bring in an additional A$1.5 million in neighbouring rights to rights holders. The new rate will be backdated to July 1, 2023. The new rate is the result of long, arduous and failed negotiations between neighbouring rights society Phonographic Performance Company of Aust...