German media group, ProSieben Media AG has bought a 20 percent stake in Los Angeles, California-based Aréte Image Software (AIS). The strategic alliance marks the first time the Munich-based company has invested in the American market. AIS, established in 1996, specializes in creating software--such as RenderWorld and Digital NatureTools--that enables animators to integrate water and atmospheric effects. The deal gives ProSieben exclusive rights to use AIS' technology and market it in Europe. Dr. Georg Kofler, ProSieben's chairman of the board, said, "The alliance will further strengthen our position in the feature film and TV production sector. We hope to jointly develop new projects in order to make state-of-the-art technologies available to a wider public."