Datavault AI and Sports Illustrated Collaborate on Digital Asset Platform

Datavault AI Inc. has announced a strategic partnership with Sports Illustrated to explore the development of a digital asset exchange platform focusing on athlete name, image, and likeness (NIL). This agreement aims for a commercial launch in the second half of 2026. The collaboration will integrate Datavault AI's quantum-secure technology with Sports Illustrated's extensive influence.

The platform will utilize Datavault AI's patented technologies and the Nasdaq Financial Framework-compatible Information Data Exchange. This initiative comes as the U.S. market advances in digital asset regulation with acts like the GENIUS Act. The U.S. collegiate NIL market, alone, is expected to grow significantly, creating opportunities for compliant platforms.

Datavault AI aims to capture a substantial share of the growing market for athlete representation and endorsements, fueled by regulatory clarity and technological innovation. The partnership promises to enhance the NIL trading ecosystem globally.