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Steven Ekstract on Muck Rack

Steven Ekstract

(He/Him)
New York, United States
As seen in: License! Global, Licensing International, LinkedIn, The New York Times, Financial Times, Reuters, The Wall Street Journal, CNBC, Fox Business, Jing Daily, License Global, Proyecta podcast de emprendimiento
Covers:  Pop Culture, Art, Brands, Digital, Entertainment, Fashion, Gaming, Heritage, Sports, Emerging markets,
Keen observer,analyst and reporter of the $300 billion a year licensing business.

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Steven Ekstract’s Biography

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Steven Ekstract is a leading authority in global brand licensing, consumer products, and retail strategy with over 30 years of experience. As Founder of Global Licensing Advisors and Co-Founder of X Tracks Licensing Summits, he connects the worlds of media, culture, and commerce—helping brands scale from IP to retail.

Former Publisher of License Global and Co-Author of Brand Licensing For Dummies (Wiley, 2025), Ekstract is a trusted voice on how entertainment, creators, and brands become multi-…

Steven Ekstract’s Journalist Portfolio

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Bravo grows Licensing

Bravo grows Licensing

Story on Bravo Licensing

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CNBC

CNBC

License to Sell--interview with Steven Ekstract

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Hot brands for Licensing

Hot brands for Licensing

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Licensing Horrors are in the past

Licensing Horrors are in the past

Steven Ekstract discusses the past mistakes of licensing companies

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Articles

Celebrity Licensing: When Your Name Becomes the Brand – and the Risk

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By Steven Ekstract
| License Global Verified
Steven EkstractLicense Global The global licensing industry thrives on powerful intellectual property – from sports leagues and entertainment franchises to fashion brands and fine art. But over the past three decades, another form of IP has quietly become one of the most potent forces in consumer products: the celebrity brand.
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Experience Economy Fuels Licensing Growth

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By Steven Ekstract
| License Global Verified
The licensing business is a mirror for broader cultural and economic trends. As tariff wars between the U.S. and its trading partners make licensed consumer products more expensive at retail, brand owners and licensees are struggling to maintain margins while meeting consumer expectations. Yet a bright spot has emerged: The Experience Economy. Consumers are placing a premium on immersive events and brand collaborations that drive cultural engagement and fuel product purchases.
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Two New Tools Aim to Demystify Brand Licensing

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By Steven Ekstract
| License Global Verified
Steven Ekstract is managing director of Global Licensing Advisors. Ekstract is also the founder of License Global magazineLicense Global Viewpoint Column As the licensing industry gathers once again in Las Vegas for Licensing Expo 2025, two landmark educational resources are launching to empower newcomers, business partners, and global brands looking to break into the licensing space. Together, they represent the most accessible and practical learning tools the industry has ever seen.
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Interview

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What was your first job as a journalist?

Writer for the Smithsonian Institution's Office of Museum programs

Have you ever used a typewriter?

Yes

How is social media changing news?

It has democratized for billions of people

Awards

Licensing International Hall of Fame

2025 - Industry Hall of Fame

The Licensing International Hall of Fame honors the most esteemed global brand licensing executives, established in 1989 to recognize individuals who have shaped and elevated the industry. Inductees are selected annually by a committee for their lasting legacy, innovation, and career achievements, often acting as a premier networking event and fundraiser for industry scholarships

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UJA Federation of New York Entertainment, Media and Communications Division

2000 - Philanthropy

Dedication to the field of Licensing and philanthropy

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