-What’s prompted investors to snap up Urban One shares?
-It’s very likely a direct response to the announcement by McDonald’s USA that it is moving forward with what it calls “bold new investments to further reflect its diverse customers, crew members and communities in its marketing.” It’s a four-year effort, and women-owned and LGBTQ+ platforms are also poised to benefit.
-That said, the jump is undoubtedly a reaction to the news that a panel of City of Richmond, Va., officials has given an affirmative nod to Urban One’s casino project. This ends a evaluation of various development plans requested by the municipality. It’s now up to voters to decide on Election Day 2021 in a referendum, pending an OK from Richmond’s City Council.
-Specifically, Richmond’s Resort Casino Evaluation Panel recommended that the ONE Casino + Resort — which will have branding in line with Urban One’s “ONE” nomenclature — moves forward as the city’s preferred casino gaming operator at a proposed site in South Richmond. The Evaluation Panel’s recommendation is supported by the city’s Mayor, Levar Stoney.