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Dentsu Announces A Strategic Integration With Criteo To Incorporate Retail Audience Data, reports AdExchanger

General

Jun 13, 2025

Dentsu has named Criteo its default data partner for all retail media buys, integrating Criteo’s commerce audience data into its Dentsu Connect platform. This enables campaign planning using SKU-level insights across retailers, even for brands not directly working with Criteo.

The partnership reflects Dentsu’s strategy to align with open, interoperable vendors that support end-to-end commerce ecosystems. Criteo’s independence and broad retail reach make it a strong fit for Dentsu’s algorithmic media approach.

Criteo’s willingness to collaborate on technical challenges and its leadership connection with former Dentsu executive Michael Komasinski further solidified the strategic alignment between the two companies.

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The Meta AI app is a privacy disaster, reports TechCrunch

General

Jun 12, 2025

Meta’s new AI app lets users share chats, audio and images publicly, but many appear unaware they are doing so. Sensitive data, including legal concerns and personal information, has surfaced without clear privacy warnings or indicators.

The sharing function, tied to public Instagram accounts, creates a serious privacy risk. Critics say Meta failed to anticipate the consequences, echoing past missteps like AOL’s search data leak in 2006.

Despite limited downloads since launch, the app has drawn attention through viral, often inappropriate posts. The lack of privacy clarity raises concerns about Meta’s judgement in blending AI tools with public social sharing.

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Senators Propose Ban on Drug Advertising to Consumers, reports WSJ

General

Jun 12, 2025

Senators Bernie Sanders and Angus King have proposed a bill to ban direct-to-consumer prescription drug advertising across all media, including TV, print, digital and social platforms. The aim is to reduce consumer exposure to what they describe as misleading pharmaceutical promotions.

The move follows broader political pressure, including from HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., to limit drug ads' influence on public health decisions and media coverage. Similar proposals from other lawmakers include removing tax deductions for such advertising.

A ban would significantly impact the U.S. advertising industry, where pharmaceutical brands remain among the biggest media spenders, especially on television.

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Marriott International Introduces MARRIOTT MEDIA, a New Media Network Shaped for the Traveler

General

Jun 12, 2025

Marriott Media is a new media network centred on the traveller, using first-party data from Marriott Bonvoy’s 237 million members to deliver targeted, relevant content across digital and physical touchpoints throughout the travel journey.

The platform enables brands to engage guests with personalised messaging via Marriott channels, in-room experiences, and post-stay reengagement, supported by robust measurement and responsible data use. Initial brand partners include Visa, Uber, and Starbucks.

With global expansion plans, Marriott Media promises localised, culturally aware campaigns, offering marketers access to high-value travellers and positioning hospitality media as a powerful, integrated advertising channel.

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Kickstarter-funded films are coming to Tubi, reports The Verge

General

Jun 12, 2025

Tubi is partnering with Kickstarter to stream over 20 crowdfunded indie films exclusively from this autumn. The platform will also invest in Kickstarter’s FilmStream Collective Fund to support emerging filmmakers and will back 10 specific projects, each debuting exclusively on Tubi for three months.

The partnership aims to boost visibility for independent creators, with both companies highlighting a shared mission to remove barriers for new talent. Tubi sees itself as a platform for the next generation of Hollywood creatives.

This move builds on Tubi’s previous Stubios programme and reflects its growing commitment to original content and creator-driven storytelling.

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Tech Giants’ New AI Ad Tools Threaten Big Agencies, reports WSJ

General

Jun 12, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Agency holding companies face mounting pressure as tech firms like Meta, Google, and Amazon develop AI tools to automate ad creation and placement. This shift threatens the traditional agency model, which relies on billing by time and labour-intensive creative services.

Meta’s AI plans triggered a temporary drop in agency share prices, highlighting investor concerns. Smaller brands may embrace automation first, but major advertisers still value strategic input and brand consistency. Agencies will need to adapt quickly to remain relevant.

While Meta has reassured agencies of their continued role, analysts believe consolidation and downsizing are likely as AI accelerates service commoditisation.

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The Trade Desk Introduces A Native App On Snowflake For Retail Conversion Data, reports AdExchanger

General

Jun 12, 2025

The Trade Desk has launched the Connector App on Snowflake, enabling brands to connect live sales and campaign data without relying on data engineering teams. The app allows ad and agency teams to work directly with data that remains securely in Snowflake.

A key feature is SKU-level insight, letting advertisers track conversions in granular detail, such as specific product preferences. This enhances retail media targeting and aligns with growing demand for detailed performance metrics.

Unlike previous onboarding tools, this native integration enables real-time feedback on campaign performance. It marks a strategic shift, expanding Snowflake’s role in retail media and advertising.

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Some WPP clients see a risk in Mark Read’s exit, others see a reset, reports Digiday

General

Jun 12, 2025

Leadership Transitions

A WPP client reconsidered its planned departure following Mark Read’s exit, seeing potential for overdue change. While frustrations remain over slow integration and outdated systems, the leadership shift offers hope for renewed urgency and accountability.

Some marketers now view the shake-up as an opportunity to test WPP’s commitment to faster, more responsive service. Others, however, see it as further instability in an already struggling agency holding company.

WPP’s future depends on whether new leadership can deliver results quickly. For clients, it’s no longer about promises—it’s about proving value fast enough to justify staying through the company’s next chapter.

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Pinterest ramps up programmatic efforts with latest Amazon hire, reports Digiday

General

Jun 12, 2025

Pinterest has hired Chip Jessopp, formerly of Amazon, as its first head of programmatic to lead a major expansion of its programmatic advertising capabilities. Jessopp will focus on building demand channels, scaling the ad tech business, and integrating programmatic with Pinterest’s direct offering.

The company aims to make programmatic a core part of its strategy, enabling broader advertiser access while maintaining a brand-safe user experience. Partnerships like the one with Magnite signal a shift from internal build-out to external scaling.

With $865 million in Q1 revenue, Pinterest is targeting cost-effective campaigns, improved targeting, and better tools for SMBs through programmatic growth.

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F.T.C. May Hit a Mega Ad Merger With an Unusual Rule: No Boycotting, reports NYT

M&A

Jun 12, 2025

The proposed merger between Omnicom and Interpublic, two of the world’s largest advertising agencies, is under review by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, with regulators considering unique conditions linked to political bias concerns.

A draft consent decree may ban the merged firm from boycotting platforms based on political content, aligning with the Trump administration’s efforts to curb perceived corporate bias against conservative views.

The deal has faced scrutiny from both Republicans and Democrats. While shareholders have approved the merger, its final outcome hinges on regulatory decisions that reflect an increasingly politicised environment for the advertising industry.

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Amazon Doubles Prime Video Ads to 6 Minutes Per Hour, reports AdWeek

General

Jun 11, 2025

Amazon has quietly increased Prime Video’s ad load from the promised 2–3.5 minutes per hour to 4–6 minutes, aiming to align with industry norms and boost ad inventory. This shift, not yet publicly acknowledged to consumers, allows more flexibility for advertisers without fixed CPMs.

The additional ad volume may reduce CPMs and help buyers reach niche audiences more efficiently. However, advertisers remain cautious, watching for signs of viewer fatigue and questioning measurement transparency within Amazon’s ecosystem.

Despite these concerns, the move reflects Amazon’s broader strategy to grow its media business by scaling Prime Video’s ad offering alongside tools like Marketing Cloud and private auctions.

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Large-format DOOH garners five times more attention than digital formats, study shows, reports The Media Leader

General

Jun 11, 2025

Attention Economy

Premium large-format digital out-of-home (DOOH) advertising captures five times more attention on average than online formats, according to Ocean Outdoor’s study with Lumen. It holds attention significantly longer than display, social and video ads.

The format also delivers 2.5 times higher brand recall than online video and drives greater brand choice when video creatives are used. Ocean’s 3D DeepScreen format boosts brand desirability by 32%.

Combining premium large-format DOOH with standard out-of-home formats yields the highest attention scores and long-term profitability. The findings call for a rethink in media planning strategies to prioritise attention-led outcomes.

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Samsung brings games to UK ad breaks, reports The Media Leader

General

Jun 11, 2025

Gaming / Metaverse

Samsung Ads has launched GameBreaks in the UK, an interactive ad format on smart TVs that turns the first ad slot of a break into a remote-controlled mini game.

The initial UK game, The Six, is a trivia quiz ending with a branded ad, and allows advertisers to customise themes and questions. If viewers opt not to play, the game will autoplay with answers shown before the ad.

Developed in-house, GameBreaks has shown a 53% uplift in unaided brand recall, offering a more engaging alternative to standard ads through interactivity and personalisation.

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Pinterest tests an AI feature that lets advertisers turn their catalogs into shoppable collages, reports TechCrunch

General

Jun 11, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Pinterest is testing “auto-collages,” a new AI tool that transforms product catalogues into shoppable collages, aiming to save advertisers time while boosting engagement, especially with Gen Z users.

The feature uses AI to group product images based on themes like outfit ideas and user behaviour, creating visual content that aligns with popular trends and user interests.

Pinterest says early tests show auto-collages are saved twice as often as standard product Pins. The company is also updating its “Trends” tool to give advertisers deeper insights into user shopping intent based on saved and curated content.

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Taboola launches gen AI search engine for publishers called DeeperDive, reports Axios

General

Jun 11, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Taboola has launched DeeperDive, a generative AI search engine for its publishing partners, starting with Gannett/USA Today and The Independent. It aims to boost user engagement by surfacing relevant articles with added context directly on publisher websites.

Designed to support publisher monetisation, DeeperDive enhances native advertising opportunities and could generate new search ad revenue streams. Gannett will trial the tool on USA Today before expanding it across 220 local news sites.

DeeperDive pulls content from Taboola’s publisher network, offering contextual answers from the same site where the search is made, setting it apart from other AI search engines.

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Disney, NBCU sue Midjourney over copyright infringement, reports Axios

General

Jun 11, 2025

Disney and NBCUniversal have filed a lawsuit against generative AI company Midjourney, accusing it of copyright infringement for using their intellectual property to train AI models and generate unauthorised images of iconic characters.

The complaint, filed in California, includes examples of AI-generated replicas from films like The Lion King and Minions. The studios claim Midjourney ignored attempts to resolve the issue and continued developing tools that produced high-quality infringing images.

This marks the first legal action by major Hollywood studios against an AI company, signalling a shift towards protecting their IP from generative platforms rather than individual users.

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Macron to push for ban on social media for under-15s after school stabbing, reports Reuters

General

Jun 11, 2025

Advertising To Children

French President Emmanuel Macron has called for EU-wide regulation to ban social media for children under 15, following a fatal school stabbing involving a 14-year-old. He warned France would act alone if the EU fails to deliver swift action.

Macron blamed social media for contributing to youth violence and urged platforms to enforce age verification. Experts have backed the proposal, which he says could be implemented within months.

His remarks follow global moves to restrict children’s social media use, including Australia’s under-16 ban. Despite existing age limits, studies show children often bypass platform restrictions with ease.

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Meta and TikTok challenge tech fees in second highest EU court, reports Reuters

General

Jun 11, 2025

Meta and TikTok have challenged an EU supervisory fee under the Digital Services Act, arguing it is unfair and based on flawed calculations. The annual fee, set at 0.05% of global net income, funds the European Commission’s oversight of major platforms.

Meta claims the fee was calculated using group revenue rather than its local subsidiary’s figures and lacks transparency. TikTok argues it was forced to pay inflated costs and penalised for user activity across multiple devices.

The Commission defended its approach, saying it used consolidated accounts appropriately. The EU General Court is expected to rule on the matter in 2025.

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Marketers set to meet with TikTok in Cannes to discuss the platform’s future plans, reports Digiday

General

Jun 11, 2025

At this year’s Cannes Lions, advertisers are seeking clarity from TikTok on its long-term strategy, including AI plans, product road map and partnership structure, amid ongoing uncertainty around its future in the U.S.

Despite recent leadership changes and legal challenges, the platform remains a key player, with high engagement keeping brands interested.

While formal discussions are often vague, Cannes offers a rare chance for agencies and CMOs to meet TikTok executives face-to-face. TikTok is using its garden space at The Carlton to host panels and meetings, aiming to rebuild relationships and shift focus away from the potential U.S. ban.

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YouTube tests 30-second non-skippable ads in standard campaigns, reports Search Engine Land

General

Jun 10, 2025

Google is testing 30-second non-skippable ads in regular YouTube auctions, previously only available through premium Reservation buys. The format joins 15-second and 6-second ads and is bundled in combo formats.

Advertisers can now access high-impact placements without reservation deals and still target audiences by keywords and demographics, offering greater control and reach.

If rolled out widely, the format could become a valuable tool for brands to secure full viewer attention, while encouraging more users to consider YouTube Premium to avoid longer ad interruptions.

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OpenAI expects subscription revenue to nearly double to $10bn, reports FT

General

Jun 10, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI’s annual recurring revenue has nearly doubled to $10 billion, driven by strong demand for ChatGPT, now used by over 500 million people. Its growth mirrors rivals like Cursor and Anthropic, whose revenues have also surged.

Despite this momentum, all three firms remain lossmaking, supported by heavy investment from backers like SoftBank, Google and Amazon. OpenAI is currently raising $40 billion and does not expect profitability until 2029.

Its income comes from ChatGPT subscriptions, APIs, and enterprise deals. The company is also expanding through acquisitions and working with the Trump administration on Stargate, a large-scale data centre project.

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Morgan Stanley markets $5 billion for Elon Musk-owned xAI in loans, bonds, sources say, reports Reuters

General

Jun 10, 2025

Morgan Stanley is marketing a $5 billion debt package for Elon Musk’s AI startup xAI, offering loans and bonds with high interest rates to attract investors in a cautious economic climate. Unlike past deals, the bank won’t commit its own capital, using a ‘best efforts’ approach.

The move comes as banks remain wary following their prolonged exposure to Musk’s $44 billion Twitter acquisition, now X, where they were unable to offload debt for over two years.

xAI is also seeking up to $20 billion in equity funding, with valuations discussed as high as $200 billion, despite political tensions affecting investor confidence.

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Google Extends Employee Buyout Offers in Push to Raise AI Spending, reports WSJ

General

Jun 10, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google has extended voluntary buyout offers to U.S. employees across several divisions, including search, ads, research and engineering, as part of broader cost-cutting measures to fund AI investments.

The company is expected to spend $75 billion on capital expenditures this year, significantly up from 2024, to strengthen its AI capabilities and stay competitive against ChatGPT and similar tools.

These offers follow previous buyouts in HR, legal and devices, and come after Google's largest layoff round in 2023. The company is also integrating AI into its products, including a revamped “AI Mode” for search with chatbot-style answers.

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News Sites Are Getting Crushed by Google’s New AI Tools, reports WSJ

General

Jun 10, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Generative AI is reshaping how people access information online, causing sharp declines in search-driven traffic to news publishers. Platforms like Google are replacing traditional search with AI-generated summaries, reducing clicks on links and impacting outlets such as HuffPost, Business Insider and the Washington Post.

Publishers are responding by cutting staff, pivoting to direct audience engagement, and developing new revenue strategies. Many, including The Atlantic and Politico, are investing in apps, events, and subscriptions to build loyalty outside search.

Legal and licensing battles over AI training data are intensifying, as media companies seek compensation and protection for their copyrighted content used in AI models.

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Meta in Talks to Invest $14 Billion in Scale AI, Hire CEO Alexandr Wang, reports WSJ

General

Jun 10, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Meta is in advanced talks to invest around $14 billion in Scale AI and bring in CEO Alexandr Wang to lead its new superintelligence initiative. This would mark one of Meta’s largest external investments as it seeks to revitalise its AI strategy after delays and setbacks with its Llama models.

CEO Mark Zuckerberg has taken a hands-on role, personally recruiting AI talent. Meta aims to overcome challenges in AI innovation by investing in startups rather than acquiring them due to antitrust scrutiny.

Scale AI specialises in data labelling rather than building AI models and supports firms like OpenAI and Google. The deal may grant Meta 49% nonvoting ownership.

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Disney’s Iger Plans to Hold On to Traditional Television Networks, reports Bloomberg

General

Jun 10, 2025

Disney CEO Bob Iger has confirmed the company will retain its traditional TV assets, diverging from rivals like Warner Bros. Discovery and Comcast, which are separating linear and streaming operations. Iger believes holding both makes Disney more competitive.

Although Disney previously considered selling ABC and other networks, it instead chose to integrate these with its streaming business. The company recently acquired full ownership of Hulu, aiming to improve streaming margins through synergy with its TV channels.

Iger also indicated Disney may stop reporting subscriber numbers, focusing instead on profitability, following a similar move by Netflix.

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Amazon Security Chief Urges Hands-Off Approach to AI Regulation, reports Bloomberg

General

Jun 10, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Amazon’s chief security officer has joined other tech leaders in warning that government regulation of artificial intelligence could hinder innovation and limit progress. Steve Schmidt argued that industry-led standards, guided by customer needs, are preferable to external rules.

Tech executives from Microsoft, OpenAI and others have echoed similar concerns, urging for minimal regulation to remain competitive with China. Meanwhile, political debates continue in Washington over how much oversight AI development should face.

A provision to block states from enforcing AI rules has been added to a tax bill, though its legality is under review. The Senate has proposed alternative funding-related measures.

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Judge rejects class action for Google privacy lawsuit, reports Reuters

General

Jun 10, 2025

A U.S. judge has ruled that Google cannot face a class action lawsuit from users who claim it collected personal data without consent when Chrome’s sync feature was disabled. The judge said consent must be evaluated individually, not as a group.

The proposed damages class action was dismissed with prejudice, meaning it cannot be filed again. Users also cannot collectively seek policy changes.

The ruling follows a previous appeal requiring the court to consider whether users reasonably understood Google’s data practices. It comes amid broader legal scrutiny of Google’s privacy policies, including past settlements over Incognito mode tracking.

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Google in Mexico faces major potential fine as antitrust ruling nears, reports Reuters

General

Jun 10, 2025

Mexico’s antitrust regulator Cofece will rule by 17 June on whether Google created an illegal monopoly in the country’s digital advertising market. A guilty verdict could see Google fined up to 8% of its annual Mexican revenue.

The investigation began in 2020, with an oral hearing held in May 2024. Google denies wrongdoing and may seek an injunction if the ruling is unfavourable.

This case mirrors similar antitrust actions against Google in the U.S., where courts found it illegally dominated search and advertising markets. The outcome in Mexico could mark one of Cofece’s largest penalties to date.

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Snap Dangles Thousands in Free Ad Spend As Potential TikTok Ban Deadline Nears, reports AdWeek

General

Jun 10, 2025

Snap is offering ad credit incentives to advertisers in a bid to capture budgets potentially shifting away from TikTok, which faces a possible U.S. ban on 19 June. Buyers report Snap is positioning itself as a top alternative if TikTok is restricted.

Recent offers include up to $10,000 in ad credits or 20% spend bonuses tied to large minimum commitments. However, none of the advertisers interviewed have shifted budget from TikTok yet.

Snap spending rose 33% from Q1 to Q2, though it still holds a small share of the market. The platform continues to invest in creators, AI tools and AR lenses.

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Paramount Lays Off Several Hundred Employees, reports AdWeek

General

Jun 10, 2025

Paramount Global is reducing its U.S. workforce by 3.5%, affecting several hundred employees, due to ongoing declines in linear TV and broader economic pressures. Layoffs may eventually extend internationally.

The decision, announced in a memo from three top executives, aligns with efforts to streamline operations and prioritise investment in the company’s streaming business. Specific departments affected were not disclosed.

The cuts follow recent changes, including CFO Naveen Chopra’s departure and the end of a long-term media agency relationship with WPP. Paramount joins other media firms like Disney and Warner Bros. Discovery in making similar workforce reductions.

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The Trade Desk Adds Instacart And Ocado As First SKU-Level Retail Data Sellers For Self-Serve Advertisers, reports AdExchanger

General

Jun 10, 2025

The Trade Desk has launched new features with Instacart and Ocado, giving advertisers near real-time access to SKU-level retail data via its Kokai platform. This allows for faster, data-driven targeting and performance measurement.

Advertisers must be approved by Instacart, and data use is restricted. Brands can create audiences based on their own product sales but cannot target rivals directly, protecting fair competition.

Early results show strong performance: brands like Silk saw a 93% increase in incremental customers. The key benefit is speed, as advertisers can now act on retail data during campaigns, not only afterwards.

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Meta Is Creating a New A.I. Lab to Pursue Superintelligence, reports NYT

General

Jun 10, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Meta is establishing a new AI research lab focused on developing superintelligence and has recruited Scale AI CEO Alexandr Wang, alongside plans to invest billions in his company. This move is part of a wider restructuring of Meta’s AI efforts amid internal challenges and staff losses. Mark Zuckerberg is pushing for Meta to lead in AI, competing with rivals like OpenAI and Google.

Meta has open-sourced tools like Llama and integrated AI across its platforms. However, scrutiny over benchmarking practices and regulatory pressure remain concerns.

The partnership with Scale AI aims to strengthen Meta’s position in the race for advanced AI dominance.

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WPP’s not only losing Mark Read, it’s about to lose another client to Publicis: Mars, reports Digiday

General

Jun 10, 2025

WPP is set to lose Mars’ $1.7 billion media account to Publicis, following a broad agency model review by the CPG giant. The loss comes shortly after Coca-Cola’s $800 million North America media shift to Publicis, further denting WPP’s client roster.

The move coincides with CEO Mark Read’s announced departure, amid declining market value and client losses. Despite investments in AI and partnerships, WPP has struggled to compete with Publicis’ acquisitive growth and the looming Omnicom-IPG merger.

New media chief Brian Lesser is expected to drive transformation, but questions remain about WPP’s cohesion, direction and ability to deliver meaningful growth.

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WPP Media cuts 2025 ad spend predictions in response to tariff uncertainty, reports Digiday

General

Jun 10, 2025

WPP Media has lowered its 2025 global ad spend growth forecast from 7.7% to 6%, citing uncertainty caused by U.S. President Trump’s trade policies.

Projections for 2025–2030 were also reduced, with a new CAGR of 5.4%. U.K. forecasts dipped due to incoming fast-food ad restrictions. While large multinationals are pulling back, medium brands are increasing investment, especially in OTC and financial services.

Retail media and creator-driven platforms are seeing rapid growth, with user-generated content now surpassing traditional media in global ad revenue share, and retail media expected to account for 15.7% of global ad revenues this year.

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Scope3 inks TikTok sustainability pact, reveals Brand Stories tie-up with OMG, reports Digiday

General

Jun 10, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Ad tech startup Scope3, led by Brian O’Kelley, has announced partnerships with TikTok, Omnicom Media Group, Butler/Till and Triton Digital ahead of Cannes Lions. Its new agentic AI tool, Brand Stories, helps advertisers identify suitable ad placements using natural language prompts, aiming to replace legacy keyword-blocking systems that often limit inventory. Scope3 claims the solution improves brand safety, sustainability, and performance, with case studies showing increased suitability rates for pharma clients.

The TikTok partnership allows direct integration into Scope3’s platform, while Triton Digital enhances audio-buying capabilities.

These moves aim to broaden inventory access and improve campaign effectiveness across channels.

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Google Ads may pause your account for manager violations, reports Search Engine Land

General

Jun 9, 2025

Google Ads has updated its policy, allowing it to pause individual ad accounts linked to Manager accounts (MCCs) that violate the third-party policy, even if the individual accounts have not breached rules themselves.

To resume ad serving, advertisers must unlink from the offending Manager account. Google will provide alerts and instructions via email and in-account notifications to guide affected users.

This change highlights the importance of carefully vetting agencies and partners. Brands must ensure compliance not only within their own accounts but also across all account relationships to avoid unintended disruptions.

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Trump likely will delay TikTok ban again, reports Search Engine Land

General

Jun 9, 2025

TikTok’s future in the U.S. remains uncertain as President Trump is expected to grant a third extension to ByteDance’s deadline to divest the app, amid ongoing U.S.-China trade talks. The current deadline expires on 19 June.

Advertisers are urged to prepare for potential disruption, as a ban or ownership change could affect campaign reach and visibility. TikTok’s status is increasingly seen as a bargaining chip in broader trade negotiations.

Although a deal involving Oracle has stalled, Trump may continue using TikTok as leverage. A formal extension is likely soon, possibly with conditions tied to trade discussions.

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YouTube Loosens Rules Guiding the Moderation of Videos, reports NYT

General

Jun 9, 2025

Responsible Media

YouTube has quietly eased its content moderation rules, now allowing videos that may break guidelines to stay online if deemed in the public interest, such as political or cultural discussions. Moderators are encouraged to prioritise freedom of expression.

The threshold for harmful content has been raised: up to half a video may now contain violations and remain online. The shift distances YouTube from earlier policies used during the pandemic and reflects growing political pressure to reduce content policing.

Critics argue the policy changes risk spreading misinformation and hate speech, prioritising profit and engagement over safety and accountability on the platform.

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Warner Bros. Discovery to Split Into Two Companies, reports Variety

General

Jun 9, 2025

Warner Bros. Discovery will split into two public companies by mid-2026: one for streaming and content, led by CEO David Zaslav, and one for traditional TV, led by CFO Gunnar Wiedenfels.

The TV entity will carry most of the company’s $38 billion debt. This move aims to give each business sharper strategic focus in a shifting media landscape, following a model similar to Comcast’s.

The streaming unit will include HBO, HBO Max, Warner studios and games, while the TV side will house global networks and brands like Discovery+ and CNN’s digital products. Sports streaming may continue on HBO Max.

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Roblox Taps Paramount’s Naveen Chopra as New CFO, reports Bloomberg

General

Jun 9, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Roblox has appointed Naveen Chopra, former Paramount CFO, as its new chief financial officer starting 30 June. CEO Dave Baszucki praised Chopra’s strategic expertise from roles at Paramount, Amazon, Pandora and TiVo.

Chopra replaces Michael Guthrie, who will step down after leading Roblox through its 2021 IPO and a revenue increase to $3.6 billion by end-2024. Guthrie announced his plans to leave last year.

Roblox is experiencing rapid growth, with its most successful game to date, Grow a Garden, attracting record players in 2025. Guthrie will remain as a consultant after Chopra’s transition begins.

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Disney to pay Comcast $438.7 million to take full control of Hulu, ending lengthy valuation process, reports CNBC

M&A

Jun 9, 2025

Disney will pay Comcast $438.7 million for its remaining 33% stake in Hulu, finalising a valuation process that began after Disney’s initial $8.6 billion payment in 2023. The agreed floor value for Hulu was $27.5 billion, but the parties’ appraisers disagreed on its worth, requiring a third appraiser to determine the final amount. The deal is set to close by 24 July.

Full ownership enables Disney to deepen Hulu’s integration with Disney+ and support its upcoming ESPN streaming service.

Comcast, now focused on Peacock, said Hulu generated nearly $10 billion for the company and praised the cooperative nature of the partnership.

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WPP chief steps down as advertising group struggles with rise of AI, reports FT

General

Jun 9, 2025

Leadership Transitions

WPP chief executive Mark Read will step down at the end of 2024, concluding a 30-year career as the company faces industry disruption and a share price near five-year lows.

Read led WPP through a major restructuring and tech investment push, including in AI, but saw the group lose its top global ranking to Publicis. His departure follows the arrival of new chair Philip Jansen and occurs amid heightened competition and transformation in the advertising industry.

Despite recent challenges, Read expressed optimism for WPP’s future, while analysts acknowledged his role in stabilising and simplifying the company during a turbulent period.

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WPP launches rare public attack on Publicis over ad quality, escalating feud, reports AdAge

General

Jun 9, 2025

WPP has publicly criticised rival Publicis Groupe’s Epsilon supply-side platform, accusing it of selling low-quality ad inventory in a report shared with clients. The clash, intensified by WPP’s claims of poor viewability and “made-for-advertising” placements, has prompted a sharp response from Publicis, which threatened legal action and accused WPP of unethical conduct.

The row highlights growing client concerns over programmatic transparency and inventory quality. Some consultants questioned the validity of WPP’s audit, citing its limited scope and lack of transparency.

The dispute comes as agency holding groups face market pressure and clients increasingly consider in-housing digital media buying.

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Meta in Talks for Scale AI Investment That Could Top $10 Billion, reports Bloomberg

General

Jun 8, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Meta is in discussions to invest over $10 billion in Scale AI, a data labelling startup crucial to training machine-learning models. If finalised, it would be one of the largest private funding deals ever and Meta’s biggest external AI investment.

Unlike its peers, Meta has focused on internal AI development but now seeks to expand through partnerships. CEO Mark Zuckerberg has committed up to $65 billion to AI projects this year, aiming to make Meta’s Llama model an industry standard.

Scale, already backed by Meta and Microsoft, works with the US government and defence sector, aligning with Meta’s growing defence tech interests.

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China Leaders Take Reins at TikTok Shop in US as Sales Miss Goal, reports Bloomberg

General

Jun 7, 2025

Leadership Transitions

ByteDance is replacing US-based TikTok Shop staff with China-linked leaders as it struggles to replicate its Asian e-commerce success in the US. Amid layoffs and cultural tensions, meetings now often occur in Mandarin, and strict office policies contrast with flexible tech norms. TikTok Shop’s US sales fell far short of targets, and internal confusion has hit morale.

The shift raises concerns about TikTok’s promised separation from China, especially with a potential US ban looming unless ByteDance divests.

Despite challenges, TikTok Shop remains central to ByteDance’s global ambitions, with expansion ongoing across Europe and Southeast Asia. A US summit is planned this month.

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Want to beat ad fatigue - Mix up formats, Magna and Snap say, reports The Media Leader

General

Jun 6, 2025

A study by Magna and Snap recommends using a mix of skippable and non-skippable ads to boost brand interest and preference, especially among Gen Z. The blended format strategy doubled brand preference impact compared to using a single format.

Skippable ads were appreciated by 81% of users, particularly in the UK and US. Key reasons for skipping varied: ad length in France and the UK, and irrelevance in the US and Canada. Engaging, entertaining content remains crucial, as 64% will watch full non-skippable ads if enjoyable.

First exposure with full completion significantly lifts brand favourability, showing the value of strong initial impressions.

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Morgan Stanley Opens xAI Books With Musk in Trump Crosshairs, reports Bloomberg

General

Jun 6, 2025

Investment Rounds

Morgan Stanley is attempting to sell debt for Elon Musk’s AI startup xAI, which expects $13 billion in annual earnings by 2029 despite currently posting losses.

The effort is complicated by Musk’s public feud with Donald Trump, which could deter investors due to potential political fallout.

xAI, linked to Musk’s wider empire including X, reported $52 million in Q1 revenue and a $341 million loss before taxes. It projects $14 billion in revenue by 2029 and plans $18 billion in data centre investments. The financial figures shared with select investors are unaudited and not held to public company accounting standards.

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OpenAI appeals data preservation order in NYT copyright case, reports Reuters

General

Jun 6, 2025

OpenAI is appealing a court order requiring it to indefinitely preserve ChatGPT output data in a copyright case brought by the New York Times, arguing the directive threatens user privacy. The order followed the Times’ request to safeguard output logs, part of its lawsuit accusing OpenAI and Microsoft of using its articles without permission to train AI models.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman called the demand inappropriate and a bad precedent. The judge previously ruled the Times had grounds to continue its claim, citing examples of ChatGPT replicating its content.

The Times declined to comment on the ongoing legal proceedings.

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Trump-Musk Fallout Fuels Hopes Washington Will Lose Interest in Advertisers Who Ditched X, reports WSJ

General

Jun 6, 2025

Advertisers are hopeful that the emerging rift between Donald Trump and Elon Musk will ease tensions, following Musk’s aggressive stance against brands that left X (formerly Twitter) after his takeover. Musk had sued individual advertisers and associations, with the FTC now investigating whether Media Matters coordinated a boycott.

Ruben Schreurs, CEO of consultancy Ebiquity, said the political divide reduces the weight behind Musk’s legal actions, offering some relief to those targeted.

The split could signal a shift in the power dynamics influencing brand decisions and lessen the pressure advertisers have felt from Musk’s confrontational approach.

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Microsoft CEO Says OpenAI Alliance Changing But Remains Strong, reports Bloomberg

General

Jun 5, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella confirmed the company’s partnership with OpenAI is evolving but remains strong.

While OpenAI now also works with others like Oracle and SoftBank, Microsoft remains its biggest infrastructure provider and benefits financially from ChatGPT’s success. The partnership, under contract until 2030, allows flexibility for both sides to seek additional partners.

Nadella aims to expand Microsoft’s AI-powered consumer business, led by Mustafa Suleyman, though it trails OpenAI’s ChatGPT in downloads. Nadella emphasised the importance of maintaining the collaboration, describing it as mutually beneficial despite growing competition in the AI space from both companies and other tech players.

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X Is Testing a Way To Take Community Notes to the Next Level, reports AdWeek

General

Jun 5, 2025

X is testing a new feature that highlights posts liked by users with differing viewpoints, aiming to showcase consensus content.

The pilot, launching with a few thousand Community Notes contributors, uses historical data to identify cross-perspective agreement. A callout box will appear on selected posts, including ads, signalling shared approval. Users can interact with these boxes to express agreement or disagreement. The feedback will help develop an open-source algorithm to expand the feature.

X sees this as a significant step for improving online discourse, building on its Community Notes system, which Meta recently adopted for its own content moderation efforts.

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Amazon Is Quietly Killing a Program That Brands Used to Drive Sales. Experts Say It Never Worked, reports AdWeek

General

Jun 5, 2025

Amazon is discontinuing its Posts programme due to declining impressions and an upcoming site redesign. The feature, offering lifestyle content in a social feed format, failed to gain traction with shoppers focused on purchase intent.

Brands could post for free or pay to promote content as Sponsored Brands ads. Posts will be fully shut down by 31 July, with new posts disabled from 16 June.

Industry experts say the tool was misaligned with user behaviour and lacked value, with its closure allowing advertisers to redirect efforts towards more effective formats. Amazon did not provide further comment beyond its initial announcement.

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Google Pulls NSFW Video App XShorts From Play Store After ADWEEK Exposes Brand Ad Placement , reports AdWeek

General

Jun 5, 2025

Google has removed the adult video app XShorts from the Play Store after an ADWEEK investigation revealed that ads from major brands, including Verizon, Shell and Amazon, were appearing alongside explicit and offensive content.

Despite its 'Teen' rating, the app hosted inappropriate material, exposing flaws in programmatic ad placement and app categorisation. Several ad platforms and brands have since blocked or reclassified XShorts to prevent future ad misplacement.

The incident highlights ongoing challenges in ensuring brand safety within the complex digital advertising ecosystem, particularly on fast-growing platforms that may be inaccurately labelled or insufficiently monitored.

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Marketers Move Millions in Ad Spend from The Trade Desk to Amazon’s Ad Platform, reports AdWeek

General

Jun 5, 2025

Advertisers are shifting significant ad spend from The Trade Desk to Amazon’s demand-side platform, especially in connected TV, attracted by lower fees, improved tools, and exclusive inventory like Prime Video and live sports.

One auto brand moved $80 million, while others have redirected millions. Agencies report widespread budget migration, citing Amazon’s flexibility, third-party inventory access, and favourable pricing.

While The Trade Desk maintains it offers objective value and solid growth, some buyers view it as less flexible and more costly. Amazon’s aggressive expansion, including deals with Hulu and Samsung TV Plus, is helping it gain share without entirely displacing competitors.

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WPP Media launches its Manhattan project tech solution into a crowded AI market, reports Digiday

General

Jun 5, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

WPP Media has launched Open Intelligence, an AI-powered identity solution designed to improve targeting and media planning while addressing privacy concerns. Built on a proprietary marketing model using consumer data, it allows for bespoke predictive models tailored to each client. WPP claims early results include significant cost-per-acquisition reductions.

The launch comes amid a surge in AI-driven tools across the marketing industry, with rivals like EY, MiQ, Seedtag, and Meta unveiling similar offerings.

WPP sees its £300 million annual AI investment as a competitive advantage, aiming to future-proof its services against tightening privacy regulations and growing demand for AI-enabled marketing solutions.

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Apple Loses Bid to Pause Court Order on App Store Changes, reports Bloomberg

General

Jun 4, 2025

A US federal appeals court has rejected Apple’s request to pause a court order requiring it to allow App Store developers to direct users to external websites for purchases without paying a commission. The decision is a setback in Apple’s ongoing legal battle with Epic Games over App Store practices. The original 2021 injunction found Apple engaged in anticompetitive conduct.

Despite Apple’s objections and claims of harm, the court upheld the ruling. Developers like Epic, Amazon and Spotify have since bypassed Apple’s payment system.

The judge also referred Apple for a potential criminal contempt investigation for violating the earlier injunction.

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Amazon Adds Private Auctions to Prime Video, Trading Cost for Guarantees, reports AdWeek

General

Jun 4, 2025

Amazon has introduced private auction (PA) deals for Prime Video ads, allowing advertisers to bid dynamically rather than pay fixed CPM rates. This change offers lower costs and greater flexibility, though without guaranteed campaign delivery.

While private auctions are standard in display and open web video, they are new to the connected TV space. The format appeals to performance-driven and mid-market advertisers, enabling real-time optimisation and cost savings of up to 20%. However, during high-demand periods, PA deals risk underdelivery.

The shift marks a strategic move by Amazon to broaden access and monetise Prime Video inventory more efficiently.

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Federal judge tells Florida it can’t enforce social media ban for kids, reports Fortuna

General

Jun 4, 2025

Advertising To Children

A U.S. judge has blocked key parts of Florida’s law banning social media accounts for under-14s and requiring parental consent for 14- and 15-year-olds, ruling it likely violates free speech rights. The injunction follows a legal challenge by industry groups NetChoice and the CCIA.

While the law’s provision allowing parents to request account removals remains, the judge found the broader ban restricts minors' right to access lawful content. A similar Georgia law faces legal scrutiny, with critics arguing such legislation is vague and overly burdensome.

Florida plans to appeal, defending the law as necessary to protect children from online harm.

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The Trade Desk lifts the lid on Deal Desk a hub for PMP management, reports Digiday

General

Jun 4, 2025

The Trade Desk is preparing to launch Deal Desk, a new feature within its demand-side platform to address inefficiencies in the Deal ID ecosystem.

Announced at the IAB Tech Lab Summit, Deal Desk aims to streamline private marketplace (PMP) management, where only 10% of Deal IDs currently deliver results. The tool will allow partners to create deals with the correct metadata, improving success rates and reducing time spent on manual processes. It seeks to move deal creation away from inefficient email exchanges and into a structured system.

Testing is set to begin in the coming weeks.

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Meta Talks to Disney, A24 About Content for New VR Headset, reports WSJ

General

Jun 4, 2025

Gaming / Metaverse

Meta is seeking exclusive content from entertainment companies including Disney and A24 for a new premium virtual reality headset, codenamed “Loma,” set to launch next year.

Offering millions for immersive content based on popular IP, Meta aims to compete with Apple’s Vision Pro. The device, resembling smart glasses, will be more powerful than the current Quest range and priced under $1,000. Meta wants exclusive VR rights, though content could later be licensed elsewhere.

Despite past VR investments and partnerships like one with James Cameron’s Lightstorm, Meta’s Reality Labs continues to operate at a loss, with $17.7 billion lost in 2023.

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Ads From Verizon, Shell, and Others Ran Next to Explicit Videos on Top Android App, reports AdWeek

General

Jun 4, 2025

Ads from major brands, including Amazon, Verizon and Popeyes, appeared alongside sexually suggestive and offensive content on the popular app XShorts, which has over a million downloads and is rated suitable for teens.

Following an ADWEEK investigation, Google blocked the app from monetising due to policy violations. Ads were served via major ad networks, including Meta’s Audience Network and Epsilon. Several brands, unaware of their ads’ placement, have since taken action.

The incident highlights ongoing challenges with automated ad placement and the lack of transparency in brand safety controls across advertising platforms, particularly on emerging or less regulated apps.

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Reddit Sues Anthropic, Alleges Unauthorized Use of Site’s Data, reports WSJ

General

Jun 4, 2025

Reddit is suing AI firm Anthropic, alleging it used Reddit’s data without a licensing agreement or user consent to train its models. The complaint, filed in California, claims Anthropic violated Reddit’s public content policy and continued scraping data even after stating it had blocked its bots

Reddit has formal data licensing deals with OpenAI and Google, and says it attempted but failed to reach an agreement with Anthropic. The lawsuit cites Anthropic’s own research acknowledging Reddit’s value in AI training.

This legal action highlights growing tensions over the use of online platforms’ data in AI model development.

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Apple and Alibaba’s AI rollout in China delayed by Donald Trump’s trade war, reports FT

General

Jun 4, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Apple’s AI partnership with Alibaba has stalled due to delays in regulatory approval from China’s Cyberspace Administration, amid heightened US-China trade tensions. The collaboration aimed to bring Apple Intelligence services to Chinese users, supported by Alibaba’s AI models.

However, geopolitical uncertainty, including pressure from Donald Trump to reshore Apple’s manufacturing, has complicated the process. Despite efforts to comply with Chinese AI regulations, approval is pending higher-level clearance from the State Council.

The delay hampers Apple’s competitive position in China, where its smartphone market share is declining amid rising competition from local brands such as Huawei and Xiaomi.

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Sorrell's S4 Capital cuts annual revenue forecast as tech clients stay cautious, reports Reuters

General

Jun 4, 2025

S4 Capital, led by Martin Sorrell, has revised its outlook, now expecting a slight decline in like-for-like net revenue for 2025 due to tech clients' cautious spending amid global economic uncertainty and U.S. tariffs.

While previously forecasting stable revenue and earnings, the group notes continued reduced work from a major client and a shift in tech spending towards capital investment over marketing. However, it maintained its core operating profit forecast.

S4 anticipates that once tariff clarity improves, clients will refocus on selective markets and technologies such as AI to enhance performance in a slower growth environment.

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IAB Tech Lab unveils plans to bolster publisher monetization in the AI era, reports Digiday

General

Jun 4, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

IAB Tech Lab has launched two initiatives to address challenges posed by generative AI and improve digital ad infrastructure.

The LLM Content Ingest API aims to help publishers control how AI systems access and monetise their content, offering standardised tools for licensing and auditing. The Containerization Project proposes modernising OpenRTB with container technology to boost scalability and reduce latency, especially for live events.

These efforts follow industry concerns over AI-driven job losses and declining ad revenues. IAB encourages publishers and brands to collaborate on these standards to future-proof monetisation and content governance in an evolving digital ecosystem.

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EY Joins Consultants’ Race for Marketing Dollars With New Unit, reports WSJ

General

Jun 3, 2025

Ernst & Young has launched EY Studio+, a new unit consolidating its design, marketing, sales and customer experience technology services to better compete for chief marketing officers’ budgets. With 7,000 staff and plans for further growth, the unit aims to rival Accenture, Deloitte and major ad holding groups.

EY Studio+ builds on over a decade of acquisitions in creative and digital services. Positioned as a modern consultancy embracing AI-driven customer transformation, EY plans to pitch the unit at Cannes Lions.

The move follows flat consulting revenue and reflects EY’s ambition to broaden its appeal beyond traditional accounting and compliance services.

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Meta to Challenge EU Tech Crackdown on Platforms, reports WSJ

General

Jun 3, 2025

Meta is challenging the European Commission’s decision to classify Messenger and Marketplace as core platform services under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), arguing they should not be separately regulated from Facebook. The case is being heard by the EU’s General Court.

The Commission deems these features key business channels, making them subject to stricter rules. Meta, along with Apple and TikTok, is also contesting broader DMA enforcement. A €200 million fine against Meta for breaching DMA data rules may also be appealed.

Experts warn that a court loss could weaken the Commission’s authority, especially amid rising geopolitical tensions with the US.

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Paramount Cuts Ties With WPP Media After Two Decades of Partnership, reports AdWeek

General

Jun 3, 2025

Paramount has ended its two-decade relationship with WPP Media, moving its media business to Publicis without a formal agency review. The decision, reportedly unexpected, comes amid Paramount’s pending merger with Skydance Media and is believed to be part of cost-cutting measures.

Paramount had worked with WPP’s media agencies since 2004, most recently under the Wavemaker brand. In May, WPP rebranded its media operations as WPP Media.

The merger with Skydance awaits final approval from the FCC and is overshadowed by a lawsuit from Donald Trump against Paramount’s CBS, contributing to ongoing uncertainty around the deal’s completion.

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Musk’s X Aims to Soothe EU Regulators With Blue Check Disclaimer, reports Bloomberg

General

Jun 3, 2025

Responsible Media

Elon Musk’s platform X has begun displaying a disclaimer clarifying the meaning of its blue checkmarks, aiming to address concerns from EU regulators under the Digital Services Act (DSA).

The badge, once reserved for notable figures, now indicates users who pay for X’s premium service. The EU previously claimed this change was deceptive and violated industry norms. X is attempting to avoid potential fines, which could reach up to 6% of global revenue and may include Musk’s other businesses.

The European Commission acknowledged the update but said its investigation into X’s practices, including advertising transparency, remains ongoing.

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Nearly Half of HoldCo Agency Staffers Want Out, Survey Finds, reports AdWeek

General

Jun 3, 2025

Agency Management

Morale is low at advertising agencies owned by holding companies like WPP and Publicis, with only 32% of employees reporting a positive atmosphere, according to an ADWEEK survey. Concerns about job security, leadership disconnect and the impact of generative AI are widespread.

In contrast, independent agencies show higher employee satisfaction, better retention and more optimism. Nearly half of holding company employees are looking to leave the industry, compared to one-third at independents.

Analysts suggest independents offer better pay, closer-knit cultures and greater flexibility, shielding them from pressures like layoffs and consolidation that afflict publicly traded holding companies.

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TikTok insists to advertisers that it’s a full-funnel platform, not just an entertainment app, reports Digiday

General

Jun 3, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

TikTok is intensifying efforts to position itself as a full-funnel advertising platform, unveiling new tools at its TikTok World summit to drive performance beyond brand awareness.

Key launches include TikTok Market Scope, offering real-time audience insights, and an AI-powered search centre to streamline ad planning. Enhanced AI solutions like Smart+ and GMV Max mirror rivals’ offerings and integrate catalogue ads and affiliate creatives.

Despite uncertainty over a potential U.S. ban, TikTok remains optimistic, with ad spend from top U.S. advertisers up 10% year-on-year. The platform is projected to reach $32 billion in global ad spend in 2025, up 24.5% from 2024.

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Roblox faces growing pains as marketers start to demand more ad transparency, reports Digiday

General

Jun 3, 2025

Roblox is seeking to grow its advertising business, but the lack of third-party measurement tools is deterring some new advertisers. Agencies report that while existing clients are generally satisfied with first-party data, new brands increasingly demand independent verification, which is standard on other platforms.

Roblox has partnered with Nielsen and Google to improve transparency, but these tools are not yet fully available. Despite rising brand interest and increased activations, agencies fear growth could plateau without credible measurement.

Roblox says it remains committed to working with partners like Kantar and IAS to establish reliable, standardised metrics for its immersive ad environments.

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Microsoft Cuts Hundreds More Jobs After Firing 6,000 Last Month, reports Bloomberg

General

Jun 2, 2025

Microsoft has cut over 300 more jobs, following 6,000 layoffs announced last month, as it continues to restructure amid the AI boom. The latest redundancies were disclosed in a Washington state notice, with the company stating the cuts are part of ongoing organisational changes to stay competitive. While previous layoffs mainly affected software engineers, it is unclear which roles were impacted this time.

The move reflects a wider industry trend, as tech firms invest heavily in AI while reducing headcount.

Microsoft had around 228,000 employees as of June 2024, with 55% based in the United States.

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Paramount’s New Board Members Include Ex-Judge, Attorney, reports Bloomberg

M&A

Jun 2, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Paramount Global has nominated three new board members and reduced its total to seven, amid ongoing merger approval processes and a lawsuit from President Trump. The additions suggest Paramount is preparing to remain independent if its proposed merger with Skydance Media fails to gain regulatory approval.

The board reshuffle follows multiple departures, including former CEO Bob Bakish.

Trump is suing Paramount’s CBS for $20 billion over alleged election interference, prompting regulatory scrutiny of the merger. Paramount Chair Shari Redstone has requested the board resolve the lawsuit, though settlement talks are controversial among lawmakers who question the suit’s legitimacy.

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Meta wants to replace its human workers with AI to review privacy and societal risks, reports Fortune

General

Jun 2, 2025

Responsible Media

Meta plans to automate up to 90% of its privacy and societal risk assessments using AI, replacing tasks traditionally done by humans, according to internal documents. While the company claims AI will only handle low-risk decisions, it may also assess sensitive areas like youth risk and misinformation.

This move reflects a wider trend among companies such as Klarna, Salesforce and Duolingo, which are increasingly using AI to cut costs and reduce staff. Critics warn that over-reliance on AI could undermine quality and oversight.

Despite reassurances, the shift signals a fundamental transformation in how companies manage human roles.

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Disney Laying Off Hundreds In TV & Film Entertainment, Corporate Finance, reports Deadline

General

Jun 2, 2025

The Walt Disney Company has begun major global layoffs, impacting several hundred employees, primarily across Disney Entertainment’s film and TV marketing, publicity, casting, and development teams, as well as corporate finance.

This marks Disney’s fourth and largest layoff round in 10 months, part of CEO Bob Iger’s $7.5 billion cost-cutting drive. Previous cuts affected ABC News, Freeform, FX, and National Geographic. Despite recent strong earnings in streaming, experiences, and sports, job reductions continue as Disney restructures to focus on streaming amid economic pressures.

The latest layoffs coincide with broader industry cuts, including those at NBCUniversal.

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F.T.C. Investigates Ad Groups and Watchdogs, Alleging Boycott Collusion, reports NYT

General

Jun 2, 2025

The US Federal Trade Commission is investigating whether around a dozen advertising and advocacy groups, including Media Matters and Ad Fontes Media, violated antitrust laws by coordinating advertiser boycotts to avoid appearing alongside hateful online content. The inquiry focuses on potential collusion, with the FTC requesting financial and communications records.

Media Matters, already being sued by Elon Musk for allegedly damaging X’s advertiser relations, is among the targets.

The probe highlights tensions between brand safety concerns and antitrust regulations, as advertisers have increasingly withdrawn from platforms like X over fears of being associated with inflammatory or extremist material.

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Byron Allen puts broadcast TV stations up for sale, reports CNBC

M&A

Jun 2, 2025

Byron Allen is exploring the sale of his 28 broadcast TV stations, affiliated with major US networks in 21 markets, after investing over $1 billion in acquisitions since 2018. Allen Media Group has hired Moelis & Co. to manage the process, citing numerous offers and the opportunity to reduce its debt.

The company has faced financial challenges, including delayed payments to networks and layoffs. A sale would ease its debt burden and follows broader media industry consolidation trends.

Allen, who has made high-profile bids for major media assets, aims to streamline operations while continuing to build his media empire.

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Elon Musk’s xAI seeks $113bn valuation in $300mn share sale, reports FT

General

Jun 2, 2025

Investment Rounds

Elon Musk’s AI start-up xAI is launching a $300 million share sale, valuing the group at $113 billion. The tender offer allows staff to sell shares and follows xAI’s March acquisition of X, formerly Twitter. A larger investment round is expected to follow.

Musk, now refocused on his businesses after stepping back from a political role, aims to integrate X and xAI for mutual benefit. xAI, launched in 2023, has developed the Grok chatbot and Colossus supercomputer, and secured deals with Microsoft and Telegram.

The group’s valuation reflects growing investor interest despite concerns over X’s controversial content moderation approach.

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Amazon Hit by German Warning Over Price Controls on Marketplace, reports Bloomberg

General

Jun 2, 2025

Germany’s antitrust watchdog has warned Amazon that its price control practices for third-party sellers likely breach German and EU competition laws. The Federal Cartel Office argues that Amazon’s influence on retailer pricing, including setting caps, is anti-competitive given it also sells products on its platform.

Amazon removes or restricts visibility of offers it deems overpriced, based on opaque internal algorithms. The regulator says this undermines fair competition, while Amazon claims the rules help protect consumers from poor value.

Amazon has been invited to respond before any final decision is made, amid growing global scrutiny of its ecommerce dominance.

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Google to spend $500 million revamping compliance in shareholder settlement, reports Reuters

General

Jun 2, 2025

Google has agreed to a $500 million, 10-year compliance overhaul to settle shareholder litigation accusing it of antitrust violations.

The settlement includes forming a dedicated board committee for risk and compliance, a senior executive committee reporting to CEO Sundar Pichai, and a compliance team within Google’s product units. The reforms aim to address issues in Google’s search, ad tech, Android and app distribution businesses. No shareholder payouts are included, though legal fees may reach $80 million.

The deal coincides with a separate antitrust case in which the U.S. government seeks structural changes to curb Google's search dominance. Judge approval is pending.

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Apple challenges unreasonable EU order to open up to rivals, reports Reuters

General

Jun 2, 2025

Apple has filed a legal challenge against the EU’s order to open its ecosystem to competitors under the Digital Markets Act.

The company argues the interoperability requirements are unreasonable, expensive, and risk compromising user privacy and security. Apple claims the rules unfairly target it alone and would restrict its ability to innovate, resulting in a poorer experience for European users.

The EU directive compels Apple to grant access to its technology and systems to rivals such as Meta and Google. Although Apple must comply for now, the legal dispute is expected to continue in court for several years.

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Meta Aims to Fully Automate Ad Creation Using AI, reports WSJ

General

Jun 2, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Meta plans to fully automate ad creation and targeting using AI by the end of 2025. Building on existing tools that modify ads, the company aims to let brands generate complete campaigns—from imagery to text—based on simple prompts and budget goals. Ads will be personalised in real time depending on user location and context.

While the move could benefit small businesses by lowering production costs, some major brands remain cautious about relinquishing creative control.

Meta’s strategy supports its broader investment in AI infrastructure, though concerns persist over the current quality of AI-generated content and the computing power required for implementation.

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Google says it will appeal online search antitrust decision, reports Reuters

General

May 31, 2025

Google plans to appeal a U.S. court decision addressing its online search monopoly, claiming the ruling is flawed. The Justice Department and several states have proposed remedies including breaking up Google’s ad tech business and ending payments to be the default search engine on devices. Judge Amit Mehta suggested less aggressive measures, prompting Google’s response.

Regulators argue that Google's dominance in search unfairly boosts its AI products like Gemini. Google maintains it has improved competition by ending exclusive deals with smartphone makers, allowing rivals to pre-load alternative search and AI apps.

A final ruling is expected later this year.

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Google Search Judge Zeroes In on AI Power in Trial Resolution, reports Bloomberg

General

May 30, 2025

A US judge is weighing whether Google’s monopoly in search should be curbed by limiting its influence in emerging AI markets. Judge Amit Mehta is considering remedies including banning default search payments, ordering the sale of Chrome, and requiring Google to share data to aid rivals.

The Justice Department argues that generative AI is a new gateway to search and Google’s dominance could extend there. Google says such measures are excessive and unrelated to past conduct. AI firms like Perplexity claim Google contracts restrict competition.

Mehta appears inclined towards forward-looking remedies to foster future search engine competition.

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Appeals Court Bars Texas AG Ken Paxton From Investigating Media Matters, reports AdWeek

General

May 30, 2025

A U.S. appeals court has ruled in favour of Media Matters for America, blocking Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s attempt to investigate the group over its reporting on brand safety concerns on X (formerly Twitter). The court deemed Paxton’s probe an “arguably bad-faith investigation” and upheld Media Matters’ right to free speech under the First Amendment.

The watchdog’s report highlighted ads appearing next to extremist content, prompting advertiser withdrawals and a lawsuit from X owner Elon Musk.

Media Matters called the ruling a win for press freedom, accusing Musk and Paxton of trying to intimidate critics and suppress journalism.

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Amazon launches suite of Twitch sponsorship solutions, reports The Media Leader

General

May 30, 2025

Influencer Marketing

Amazon Ads has launched Twitch Creator Sponsorships, offering brands a streamlined, programmatic way to collaborate with Twitch streamers via Amazon’s DSP.

A new self-service Twitch Creator Matchmaking tool helps brands find suitable streamers based on category, audience, location and budget. The offering includes display ads, host-read formats, community promotions, branded channel skins, sponsored subscriptions and follower promotions, with real-time feedback via Twitch chat.

Announced ahead of TwitchCon Europe, these tools aim to attract new advertisers by reducing campaign set-up time and providing measurable outcomes using Amazon Ads’ analytics solutions across gaming, music, lifestyle and more.

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EU to launch age-check app as pressure builds on Big Tech, reports FT

General

May 30, 2025

Responsible Media

The EU will launch an age verification app in July to help enforce rules protecting minors online. The tool, which preserves user privacy, is a step towards the EU’s digital identity wallet due in 2026. While no single age-verification rule exists, platforms hosting minors or harmful content must assess risks. EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen urged platforms to adopt stronger protections voluntarily.

Brussels also aims to make children’s accounts private by default and curb addictive designs. Meta and TikTok face probes, while four adult sites are under investigation.

Virkkunen noted international consensus is growing on prioritising child safety online.

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Microsoft promotes former Trump official, hires ex-Biden lawyer, reports Axios

General

May 30, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Microsoft has appointed former Biden Administration official Lisa Monaco as president of global affairs and promoted C.J. Mahoney, a former Trump Administration trade representative, to general counsel. The move signals Microsoft’s intent to maintain bipartisan ties in a polarised political climate.

Monaco will oversee global cybersecurity and governmental engagement, while Mahoney will focus on legal matters concerning Microsoft’s products. Existing general counsel Jon Palmer will retain responsibility for compliance and litigation. All will report to president Brad Smith.

Microsoft emphasised its commitment to working with top talent from both parties, as tech firms adjust policy teams amid ongoing political shifts.

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Judge Considers Curbs for Google in AI Arms Race, reports WSJ

General

May 30, 2025

U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta is weighing how far to go in curbing Google’s search monopoly, including limits on promoting its AI product, Gemini. This follows his earlier ruling that Google abused its dominance.

he Justice Department seeks tough remedies, including forcing Google to sell Chrome, banning payments to Apple for default search status, and mandating data sharing with competitors. Google argues these measures are excessive.

With AI reshaping online search, Mehta’s ruling, expected in August, could reshape market dynamics and influence how Apple and others integrate AI options like ChatGPT and Gemini in future products and agreements.

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TikTok Shop Cutting More Indonesia Jobs After Taking Over Rival, reports Bloomberg

General

May 30, 2025

TikTok Shop is cutting several hundred jobs in Indonesia across logistics, operations, marketing and warehousing, following its $1.5 billion merger with Tokopedia. The move is part of a wider cost-cutting overhaul after the combination doubled staff to around 5,000. The merged entity now employs about 2,500 people in Indonesia. ByteDance, TikTok’s parent, says the cuts support sustainable growth.

Indonesia, a key e-commerce market, remains highly competitive.

The country’s antitrust agency has raised concerns over market concentration and warned against monopolistic practices, urging TikTok Shop and Tokopedia to ensure fair payment and logistics options and avoid self-preferencing or predatory pricing.

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Germany eyes 10% digital tax on global tech groups, reports FT

General

May 29, 2025

Germany is planning a 10 per cent tax on global internet platforms like Google and Meta, aiming to boost its media landscape and ensure tech firms contribute fairly. Alternatives, such as voluntary contributions, are also under discussion.

Media commissioner Wolfram Weimer confirmed a draft law is in progress, possibly modelled on Austria’s existing 5 per cent levy. The move could heighten transatlantic tensions, with the US already criticising EU treatment of American firms.

German media groups support the proposal and urge that revenues be redistributed to editorial organisations. The tax would target large platforms’ advertising income within Germany.

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New York Times Agrees to License Content to Amazon for AI Use, reports Bloomberg

General

May 29, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

The New York Times has signed its first content licensing deal with Amazon, allowing the tech giant to use its editorial content, recipes, and sports coverage across AI platforms, including Alexa and AI model training. The multiyear agreement aims to broaden audiences for Times journalism and enhance Amazon’s services. Terms remain undisclosed.

This comes as the Times continues legal action against OpenAI and Microsoft for allegedly using its articles without permission to train AI tools like ChatGPT.

While many publishers pursue licensing deals to recover lost revenue, the Times remains cautious, balancing legal challenges with selective partnerships.

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FTC backs DOJ proposal in Google search antitrust case, reports Reuters

General

May 29, 2025

The Federal Trade Commission has filed an amicus brief supporting the Department of Justice’s proposed remedies for Google’s antitrust violations.

A court ruling found Google maintained illegal monopolies in search and advertising. The DOJ’s plan requires Google to share certain data with competitors under strict privacy safeguards.

The FTC, citing Google’s poor privacy record, endorsed the proposal and the creation of an independent oversight committee. The Commission argues that this approach not only restores competition but also strengthens consumer data protection, marking a significant step towards holding dominant tech platforms accountable while promoting higher privacy standards across the industry.

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OpenAI argues to keep countersuit against Musk in trial over for-profit shift, reports Reuters

General

May 29, 2025

OpenAI has urged a court to allow its countersuit against Elon Musk to proceed, rejecting his request to dismiss or delay the claims. OpenAI accuses Musk of fraudulent business practices and alleges a $97.4 billion takeover bid by a Musk-led group was a “sham” intended to generate media attention. The countersuit also cites a pattern of harassment and seeks to prevent further alleged misconduct.

Musk originally sued OpenAI over its shift to a for-profit model, claiming it betrayed its founding mission.

OpenAI argues its claims should be part of an expedited trial despite Musk's objections.

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Business Insider Lays Off 21% of Staff, Citing Traffic Sensitivity, reports Adw

General

May 29, 2025

Business Insider has laid off 21% of its staff as part of a major restructure aimed at aligning with its strategic focus on business, tech and innovation journalism. CEO Barbara Peng cited declining traffic, AI-driven efficiencies and the need for a leaner model as key drivers.

The publisher is exiting most of its commerce business and launching BI Live, a live events journalism arm. It is also fully embracing AI to enhance productivity and operations.

The changes, affecting all departments, aim to future-proof the business amid shifting media consumption patterns and growing reliance on high-engagement, subscription-based content.

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LinkedIn courts creators - and advertisers - with new performance metrics, reports Digiday

General

May 29, 2025

LinkedIn has launched new creator metrics to offer deeper insights into content performance and ROI, focusing on follower growth, profile views and custom button clicks. These real-time analytics aim to help creators attract brand deals by showing conversion data, a key priority for B2B marketers.

The move also supports A/B testing and more targeted content strategies. Simultaneously, LinkedIn removed its profile hyperlink feature, making Premium membership essential for external linking via custom buttons.

While welcomed by creators and marketers, many believe LinkedIn must further enhance its analytics to compete with creator-centric platforms like TikTok and YouTube.

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White House insists court ruling won’t derail Trump’s tariff agenda, reports Politico

General

May 29, 2025

Despite a federal court ruling that struck down Trump’s emergency tariffs, the administration has vowed to continue its trade agenda. Economic adviser Kevin Hassett dismissed the decision as a “hiccup,” insisting reciprocal tariffs will succeed. The administration plans to proceed with trade negotiations and may use alternative legal mechanisms if the appeal fails.

Critics, including Sen. Rand Paul, argue the president overstepped constitutional limits. Meanwhile, Trump allies have attacked the judiciary as “activist” and part of a “deep state.”

The ruling could hinder Trump’s trade strategy, though the White House remains determined to assert executive power in trade matters.

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In-house agencies navigate a new phase of purpose and pressure, reports Digiday

General

May 29, 2025

Economic uncertainty is putting pressure on in-house marketing teams, with brands like PepsiCo and Keurig Dr Pepper downsizing or disbanding them. These teams face rising expectations but limited authority, making them vulnerable when budgets are cut.

While in-house agencies promise speed and cost-efficiency, they risk burnout without boundaries. Some companies, like Humana and TruStage, are adapting by redefining team roles and setting clearer scopes. Others still rely on external partners for specialised work.

As AI and evolving business needs reshape marketing, in-house teams must remain flexible, strategic, and disciplined to stay relevant and impactful within their organisations.

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