Nepali creators are turning more often to alternative live streaming services such as Kick. Broadcasters in the region are seeking stronger revenue retention, wider audiences, and ways to earn directly beyond conventional social media platforms.
The shift accelerated after prominent Nepali gaming streamer Sanjan Gautam, known online as CR7 Horaa, reported making more than $600 (over NPR 80,000) from one Kick stream. The figure remains an unverified personal claim, but the reported achievement has drawn widespread attention across South Asia’s digital creator economy to the business prospects of newer streaming platforms.
Moving Beyond YouTube and Facebook
Nepali digital creators have long relied on YouTube and Facebook to build their audiences. However, creators in the region often contend with lower advertising rates (CPM) across South Asia, substantial platform fees, and challenges accessing local payment gateways.
- The growing move to Kick signals a strategic shift toward monetization models that pay creators directly.
- 95/5 Revenue Split: While established platforms may take 30% to 50% of channel membership revenue, Kick allows creators to retain 95% of subscription fees.
- Direct Community Tipping: During major live gaming broadcasts, streamers benefit from direct audience contributions, gifted channel subscriptions, and incentives offered specifically to creators on the platform.
Diversified Revenue Streams: Revenue from successful broadcasts can help gaming influencers support regional esports organizations, including Gautam’s Horaa Esports, while developing independent media brands.
South Asia’s Live-Streaming Economy Comes of Age
Growing interest in Kick points to the maturation of Nepal’s digital media landscape. Mobile games such as PUBG Mobile attract large numbers of young players, and streaming is rapidly evolving from a pastime into a viable commercial sector across regional centers.
Industry observers note that as international platforms introduce monetization arrangements with fewer entry barriers, regional creators will continue expanding their distribution channels to increase their total earnings.