– HubDub: Former Johnston Press business development manager Nigel Eccles has launched HubDub, a Long Bets-inspired news prediction website allowing visitors to forecast news outcomes using “play money”. Edinburgh-based Eccles tells Press Gazette the site covers US stories but a UK version will be launched soon.
– Reevoo: Kyle McGinn, head of internet technology at Siemens-owned BBC Technology, is leaving to become chief technology officer at product reviews and ratings site Reevoo. McGinn had been with the BBC for seven months after a long stint with Opodo. The BBC is currently building a new media delivery infrastructure. Via TCUK.
– Russian search: Russia’s contextual search ads market has grown by two and a half times in just over a year to $225 million, according to an iConText report (via CNews and TCUK). Yandex leads with a 64 percent market share or $145 million. Begun follows by reaping up to $70 million and Google (NSDQ: GOOG) is estimated to be making $10 million. But iConText reckons growth might slow in 2008.