

4K Media Rebrands as Konami Cross Media NY, Yuta Kose to Helm
Konami Digital Entertainment Co. announced that its New York City outpost, 4K Media Inc. has been renamed Konami Cross Media NY Inc. to reflect the company’s evolving, 360-degree approach to managing IP for gaming brands such as Yu-Gi-Oh!, Bomberman, Contra, and Frogger.

Bunch O Balloons Patent Ruling Doubled to $24.5 Million
A United States District Court has upheld and entered its jury verdict against Telebrands and subsidiary Bulbhead.com LLC, and more than doubled the damage award in the infringement lawsuit of Zuru’s Bunch O Balloons. Retailers were also held responsible.

Viacom Acquires Sparkler, Expanding Noggin’s Educational Capabilities
Viacom has acquired Sparkler, an early learning technology platform, and named its co-founder Kristen Kane as Noggin’s executive vice-president.

Ricky Zoom Fuels Up for MIPTV with New Broadcast Partners
Entertainment One (eOne) secured new distributor partners in Germany, Spain, and China for its new upcoming preschool animated TV series, Ricky Zoom.

Sunny Bunnies Signs New EMEA Plush Partner
CLPG signed Posh Paws to develop plush for children’s CGI-animated comedy Sunny Bunnies across EMEA (excluding France).

New Kids’ Series ‘Best Furry Friends’ Readies for Debut
Headstart and Boomerang will premiere the new animated series, Best Furry Friends, based on the BFF toy brand, on Saturday, March 30.

Go Betty Boop Yourself!
toxicfox, a leading UK character personalization company, has developed a new line that lets users transform into Betty Boop-inspired characters and add their creations to customized product.

Thimblestump Hollow Names Master Toy, Apparel Partner
Surge Licensing has named the Good Smile Companyas the U.S. master toy and apparel partner for Thimblestump Hollow, with product launching at WonderCon (March 29–31) in Anaheim.