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Amazon adds social shopping features, including a way to ask friends for product feedback, reports TechCrunch

General

Oct 19, 2023

Amazon is rolling out "Consult-a-Friend" within its app, enabling users to seek purchase advice from contacts. Shoppers can share product links, and friends can respond with emojis or comments. Amazon's data showed frequent product sharing via its "Share" button, underlining the feature's potential.

To access, users activate the tool in the app, allowing product link sharing. Friends' feedback is viewable if they're logged into their Amazon account, ensuring non-customer data isn't captured.

Alongside, Amazon introduced the "Create" feature for its "Inspire" feed, allowing all users to post product experiences, available for US-based iOS and Android users.

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Silicon Valley Ditches News, Shaking an Unstable Industry, reports NYT

General

Oct 19, 2023

News Publishing

Major online platforms, including Facebook and Twitter (now "X"), are distancing themselves from news content. The move is due to the polarised debates news often sparks and a significant decline in web traffic from these platforms to news sites.

The uneasy relationship between publishers and tech giants intensifies challenges for the news industry. As social traffic dwindles, publishers observe a drop from 11.5% to 6.5% in a year in the US.

With such uncertainty, publishers are turning to Google. However, Google's increasing focus on AI, potentially reducing external news link visibility, is causing publishers to re-evaluate their reliance on tech giants.

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EU Curbs on Google Help Russian Rival It Blames for Kremlin Lies, reports Bloomberg

General

Oct 19, 2023

The EU's antitrust measures against Google's Android have inadvertently boosted the prominence of Yandex, a Russian search engine linked to the Kremlin, across Europe. As a result of the EU directives, Android users are presented with a "choice screen" of search apps, with Yandex now a top pick in several countries.

European Parliament member Stéphanie Yon-Courtin has expressed concerns over Yandex's inclusion due to its Kremlin ties. The EU previously sanctioned Yandex's founder and criticised the firm for promoting Kremlin-driven content.

Despite this rise, Yandex only commands a 2.8% market share in Europe's mobile search space.

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Amazon defends Prime program in bid to defeat FTC lawsuit, reports Reuters

General

Oct 19, 2023

Amazon has urged a U.S. judge in Seattle to dismiss an FTC lawsuit accusing it of misleading Amazon Prime subscribers. The ecommerce giant asserts it transparently communicated terms to its Prime customers, criticising the FTC for ambiguous allegations.

The firm emphasised that Prime's sign-up and cancellation processes surpass legal standards, reflecting its commitment to clarity. This legal challenge is part of the Biden administration's intensified oversight on large tech companies.

Additionally, the FTC previously called out Amazon's restrictive business practices in September. The current lawsuit's trial is slated for February 2025.

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As Google pushes deeper into AI, publishers see fresh challenges, reports Reuters

General

Oct 19, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

Google has unveiled the "Search Generative Experience" (SGE), a new feature using generative AI to generate summaries for user searches. This innovation comes as a response to emerging AI tools like OpenAI's ChatGPT.

Publishers are concerned that this tool might decrease website traffic, as summaries could deter users from clicking on the full articles. Additionally, they seek compensation when their content aids AI training.

Despite these concerns, Google maintains it supports various online creators. They've also introduced "Google-Extended", allowing publishers some control over how their content is used, but the broader implications of SGE remain a point of contention.

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General Mills Hires IPG’s UM As Global Media Agency, reports AdAge

General

Oct 19, 2023

General Mills has chosen Interpublic Group's UM as its global media agency, overseeing strategy and analytics in 36 markets. Previously, GroupM’s Mindshare held this responsibility since 2015.

In Q1 2024, General Mills saw a near 4% sales increase, amounting to $4.9 billion, credited to relaxed inflation, improved supply chains, and higher pricing.

This acquisition by UM follows other significant gains, with major brands such as Geico also joining their roster. The move is in line with a broader trend of big advertisers like BMW and Nestlé re-evaluating their media partnerships this year.

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Instacart Is Working With The Trade Desk To Expand Programmatic Ads For Brands, reports AdAge

General

Oct 19, 2023

Instacart has partnered with The Trade Desk, a programmatic ad platform, enabling grocery-delivery customer ads to feature beyond Instacart's app. This allows brands to utilise Instacart's shopper data for targeted advertising, linking with The Trade Desk's existing retailer networks like Walmart and CVS.

Instacart's focus on advertising is evident from its 24% increase in ad revenue during the first half of the year. This showcases the company's strategic shift towards leveraging its vast user base for advertising.

The collaboration highlights the industry's move towards retail media networks. Brands, such as Nestlé, are using these platforms to access vital consumer data they lack.

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Disney reveals size of ESPN's biz for the first time, reports Axios

General

Oct 19, 2023

ESPN's annual profit for Disney surpassed its entire entertainment division, as per a recent regulatory filing. In Disney's 2022 fiscal year, ESPN produced over $16 billion and $2.9 billion in profit, primarily from domestic operations, while the entertainment unit generated $39.6 billion in revenue and $2.1 billion in profit.

A significant portion of ESPN's revenue comes from cable TV provider fees rather than advertising. Challenges arise as viewers increasingly cut cords, complicating negotiations for TV networks regarding these fees.

Disney's restructuring has created three segments: entertainment, sports (including ESPN), and experiences. Despite the current impact on profit margins, Disney anticipates streaming profitability by 2024.

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UK poised to establish global advisory group on AI, reports FT

General

Oct 19, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

The UK is set to unveil an international AI advisory group at a summit next month, mirroring the UN's Climate Change Panel. This forms part of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's drive to establish the UK as a pivotal player in AI regulation.

Simultaneously, a separate UK-based AI safety institute will assess machine learning's national security implications. US AI leaders suggest an "International Panel on AI Safety" to centrally oversee and evaluate AI risks.

Scheduled for November at Bletchley Park, the AI summit will host global AI experts, exploring AI's security risks, advantages, and its potential influence on the economy.

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Meta’s Yann LeCun argues against premature AI regulation, reports FT

General

Oct 19, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

Yann LeCun, Meta's leading AI scientist, believes premature AI regulation will bolster big tech's dominance and stifle innovation. He advocates for open-source AI systems, arguing they enhance competition and inclusivity.

Critics, however, fear open-source models could be misused for malicious purposes like cyber warfare. LeCun counters by likening AI's trajectory to the internet, stressing the importance of an open approach.

LeCun downplays the perceived dangers of advanced AI, emphasising its potential benefits. He envisions AI playing a pivotal role in the future, aiding in major challenges and seamlessly integrating into our daily lives.

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Omnicom Media Group’s CASA efforts in CTV take a step forward with NBCU partnership, reports Digiday

General

Oct 19, 2023

Omnicom Media Group (OMG) is integrating standards from its Council on Accountability and Standards in Advertising (CASA) into the growing realm of connected TV (CTV). Discussed during Advertising Week New York, a collaboration with NBC Universal will provide comprehensive program-level reporting for CTV to all OMG clients.

The CASA initiative includes pillars like placement controls, audience targeting, and anti-fraud measures. Kelly Metz, OMG’s director of advanced TV, highlighted the move's importance in bridging the gap between CTV and traditional linear TV through enhanced transparency

This shift utilises third-party verifications, aiming for data privacy. NBCU plans broader access, while industry leaders applaud the move towards greater CTV clarity.

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Omnicom Media Group makes its bid to determine incrementality in retail media via its CASA effort, reports Digiday

General

Oct 18, 2023

Retail media's rapid growth is threatening to surpass TV in ad revenue, leading Omnicom Media Group (OMG) to unveil its retail media-related standards under the Council on Accountability and Standards in Advertising (CASA).

The new standards emphasise 'incrementality', pinpointing growth attributable to distinct marketing campaigns. This is especially pertinent when utilising retail media data for connected TV campaigns, an evolving area needing clearer standards for consistent evaluation.

To realise these standards, OMG is collaborating with major retail players like Kroger, Amazon, and Walmart. Their collective aim is to achieve uniformity in the burgeoning sector, ensuring consistent measurements and evaluations.

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Netflix Earnings For Q3 2023 Show +7.8% YoY Revenue Growth, Net Income Up By +20.0% YoY

+ 8% YoY Opinions

Earnings

Oct 18, 2023

Reuters reports:

Netflix has increased its subscription rates in the US, UK, and France after registering nearly 9 million global subscribers in Q3, outpacing the expected 6 million. Despite disruptions in Hollywood productions, international content, such as the "One Piece" adaptation and "Suits", contributed majorly to their growth.

Ted Sarandos, Netflix's co-CEO, highlighted the platform's vast programming variety, crucial during the pandemic. Amidst Hollywood strikes, Sarandos emphasised their commitment to resolution.

Post this Q3 success, the most robust since early pandemic lockdowns, Netflix's premium plan costs rose globally. The company's shares surged, with its global subscriber base now exceeding 247 million.

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Snapchat Launches New Tools To Facilitate Creator Collaborations with Brands, reports SocialMediaToday

General

Oct 18, 2023

Influencer Marketing

Snapchat is introducing "Paid Partnership Tags" for sponsored content to enhance in-app transparency. Verified creators will soon have the ability to tag Official Businesses in their posts, with brands gaining insights and advertising capabilities.

Snap's Creator Marketplace aims to help brands collaborate with influential creators. A new Creator Discovery API will allow third-party platforms to guide businesses towards appropriate Snap influencers, sharing follower data and engagement metrics.

Lastly, Snapchat will debut midroll ad placements within creator Stories, providing brands with an opportunity for impactful engagement in the app's popular content.

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Google cuts dozens of jobs in news division, reports CNBC

General

Oct 18, 2023

Google has reduced its news division workforce, impacting an estimated 40-45 jobs, according to the Alphabet Workers Union. While a Google spokesperson confirmed the downsizing, they reiterated their dedication to providing news and stated the intent was organisational streamlining.

Amid global conflicts, the spread of misinformation online is a growing concern. In this context, platforms like Google face increased scrutiny in their role of disseminating accurate news. Senator Michael Bennet and EU's Thierry Breton, among others, have called for platforms to enhance measures against misleading content.

This comes as countries like Canada contemplate laws requiring tech platforms to compensate content publishers.

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Appeals Court Weighs Meta's Liability For Scam Ads, reports MediaPost

General

Oct 18, 2023

Meta appealed to a federal panel, urging the continuation of a lawsuit's dismissal regarding users deceived by fraudulent ads. Citing Section 230, Meta's counsel argued the platform is protected from liability for third-party fraudulent content.

However, the claimants' attorney contended that Meta actively developed these ads, guiding advertisers to bypass China's internet restrictions. The initial complaint emerged from two users claiming losses after purchasing items advertised by China-based sellers on Facebook.

While some judges seemed sceptical of the users' stance, concerns were raised about tech platforms potentially permitting fraud. A final decision is yet to be announced.

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Amazon and X Will Likely Avoid Bill for Enforcing EU’s Content Rules, reports Bloomberg

General

Oct 18, 2023

Amazon and X (formerly Twitter) may sidestep millions in fees under the EU's Digital Services Act (DSA). The EU intends to levy €45.2 million for DSA enforcement, distributed amongst major online platforms by user numbers. However, a clause caps fees at 0.05% of 2022 profits, benefiting loss-making firms.

As a result, Amazon and X pay nothing, while Alphabet and Meta are expected to shoulder around €31 million, nearly 75% of the total. Critics argue this arrangement is skewed given Amazon's vast revenues and X's contentious dealings with regulators.

The definitive fee structure will be announced by the EU commission in November.

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In Antitrust Trial, Google Argues That Smart Employees Explain Its Success, reports NYT

General

Oct 18, 2023

Google's defence in its antitrust trial emphasises innovation as the key to its search success, rather than restrictive contracts. Pandu Nayak, Google's vice president of search, reinforces this stance, highlighting Google's focus on technology.

The U.S. Justice Department and 38 states contend that exclusive contracts and hefty payments to firms like Apple ensure Google's dominance by making it the default search engine. They argue that accumulating more user data continually refines search quality.

However, Nayak counters this, spotlighting the company's research advancements. He suggests that language understanding developments, rather than sheer data volume, are pivotal to improving search quality.

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Stanford researchers issue AI transparency report, urge tech companies to reveal more, reports Reuters

General

Oct 18, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

Stanford University researchers have assessed the transparency of AI foundation models from major companies including OpenAI and Google. Their findings highlighted a concerning decline in transparency, emphasised by Professor Percy Liang, who linked reduced transparency to potential risks.

Foundation models are pivotal in the rise of generative AI, making understanding their biases vital. The study's Foundation Model Transparency Index revealed all tested models scored poorly.

Top scores included Meta's Llama 2 at 53/100 and OpenAI's GPT-4 at 47/100. The researchers hope the study encourages enhanced transparency and aids regulatory decisions.

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Meta shareholder lawsuit over user privacy revived by appeals court, reports Reuters

General

Oct 18, 2023

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco has revived a shareholder class action against Meta Platforms Inc (formerly Facebook). The suit alleges Meta concealed misuse of user data between 2017 and 2018, specifically the Cambridge Analytica breach.

Darren Robbins, representing the Meta investors, praised the court's decision. The controversy roots back to a data breach in 2015 affecting 87 million users, with subsequent revelations in 2018 impacting the stock value.

Following the scandal, Facebook incurred penalties exceeding $5 billion and settled another lawsuit for $725 million.

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Israeli Ad-Tech Firms Re-Strategize Amid War, reports AdWeek

General

Oct 18, 2023

October usually sees Israel's ad-tech sector, home to major firms like Taboola and Outbrain, gearing up for the following year. However, the 2021 landscape is marred by conflict following a Hamas attack on Oct. 7, causing significant disruptions and casualties.

Many ad-tech employees have been conscripted, while others manage personal tragedies, leading to postponed marketing initiatives and product launches. Omri Argaman of Zoomd highlighted the personal toll of the conflict, recounting a close friend’s daughter's loss.

In response to the crisis, companies are prioritising existing clients and mitigating cyberattacks. Despite challenges, clients display understanding, but industry gatherings are avoided as professionals stay close to families.

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Procter & Gamble Ad Spend Increases By $445 Million As It Beats Expectations, reports AdAge

General

Oct 18, 2023

Procter & Gamble Co. (P&G) upped its ad spending by $445 million in the fiscal first quarter, outperforming analyst forecasts. The hike mirrored the previous fiscal quarter's $453 million boost, with sales for flagship brands rising 6% to $21.9 billion.

Year-long global ad spending predictions, based on these consecutive increases, seem optimistic. However, CFO Andre Schulten emphasises P&G's commitment to continuous advertising investment this fiscal year, focusing on solid ROI.

Despite global volume drops, P&G's revenues rose due to prior price hikes. Commodity costs dipped last quarter, but the escalating dollar offset these savings. Schulten remains hopeful for P&G's annual projections.

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Dutch Consumer Group Sues Amazon Over Data Tracking, reports WSJ

General

Oct 18, 2023

A Dutch consumer-rights group, Stichting Data Bescherming Nederland (SDBN), has initiated legal proceedings against Amazon, alleging the company's unauthorised tracking of users' online activities through cookies for targeted advertising.

This class-action suit represents approximately five million Amazon users in the Netherlands, seeking both damages and cessation of Amazon's data-tracking. The lawsuit reflects Luxembourg's 2021 regulatory penalty against Amazon for similar violations, for which Amazon was fined $887 million.

An Amazon representative contested the allegations, emphasizing the company's commitment to user privacy and adherence to regional legal requirements.

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News outlets in fog of war amid dueling claims on Gaza hospital blast, reports CNN

General

Oct 18, 2023

A Gaza City hospital airstrike sparked immediate accusations, with many global news outlets initially blaming Israel based on Hamas's claims.

Soon after, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) refuted these accusations, pointing towards an Islamist group in Gaza for the tragedy, causing news outlets to revise their reports and headlines.

This evolving narrative highlights the challenges of wartime reporting, emphasising the importance of accuracy, especially when errors can lead to significant political and social repercussions, such as cancelled diplomatic meetings and widespread protests.

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YouTube Makes It Easier For Advertisers To Connect With Diverse Creators, reports AdAge

General

Oct 18, 2023

Diversity & Inclusion

YouTube is launching the "Inclusive Media Initiative" with Pixability and Whalar, enabling creators to self-declare multiple identity facets to advertisers. This counters the prior system where third-party vendors often restricted creators to a single identity label.

Bri Hall, a pilot participant, highlighted how such vendors previously pigeonholed her solely based on race, neglecting other significant aspects like her LGBTQ+ status and disabilities.

This initiative intends to provide creators more autonomy and assist brands in comprehensively understanding their advertising targets, fostering closer alignment between advertisers and content producers.

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Olympics 2024 Ad Demand Grows As NBCU Leans Into Streaming And Celebrity Partnerships, reports AdAge

General

Oct 18, 2023

NBCUniversal reveals strong ad sales for the 2024 Paris Olympics, surpassing previous games. High-profile slots, like the Opening Ceremony, are fully booked. Celebrity partnerships, such as one with Dolly Parton, have significantly boosted interest.

From July 26 to August 11, 2024, the Paris Olympics will be streamed live on Peacock. This platform will offer enriched content, blending athlete narratives with innovative tech insights during prime time.

The shift towards streaming is highlighted by an anticipated 20%-25% of Olympics viewership from Peacock. As linear viewership wanes, NBCU's streaming capabilities offer advertisers broader reach and enhanced engagement tools.

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Attention’s Role In Driving Sales At Center Of DoubleVerify-Attain Partnership, reports AdAge

General

Oct 18, 2023

DoubleVerify and Attain have partnered in a pioneering effort to link attention metrics for digital ads directly to real-time sales data, amidst rising interest in quantifying attention's revenue impact.

Attain gleans live purchase information from a 6 million-member, consent-based panel using a financial app tied to retail loyalty accounts. This move partly counteracts the decline of personal identifiers like cookies that connected digital ad views to sales.

Highlighting the importance of this holistic approach, the collaboration provides brands with clearer insights, helping them determine if increased attention indeed translates into a sale, subsequently enriching their marketing decisions.

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YouTube is making it easier for users to access news from credible sources, reports TechCrunch

General

Oct 18, 2023

News Publishing

YouTube is launching an "immersive watch page experience" that aggregates news from reputable sources across multiple formats, streamlining user access to diverse content. This feature, accessible via a newspaper icon, will be initially available to mobile users in about 40 countries, with plans to expand to desktop and TV.

Additionally, YouTube's 'Shorts Innovation Program for News' will financially support news organisations keen to produce short-form content. The initiative is starting with partnerships across 10 countries, with an initial fund of $1.6 million.

This move by YouTube seems tactical, considering many news outlets' inclination towards TikTok, and contrasts Meta's recent withdrawal from the news domain.

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Get ready to see a lot more product ads in YouTube videos, reports The Verge

General

Oct 18, 2023

Influencer Marketing

YouTube is rolling out enhanced tools allowing creators to showcase product adverts at specific times within their videos. Following Wednesday's announcement, creators can now integrate timestamps for product tags, triggering a shopping button at chosen moments for viewers.

This feature potentially streamlines collaborations between creators and brands by giving content creators direct control over the shopping button's display. This is a welcome change for creators, especially since YouTube is retracting some ad choices from November.

Additionally, YouTube is introducing features like bulk tagging for affiliate products and a revenue tracker in YouTube Studio, highlighting the most lucrative affiliate products for creators.

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Google's Russian subsidiary recognised as bankrupt by court, reports Reuters

General

Oct 18, 2023

A Moscow court has declared Google's Russian subsidiary bankrupt, following a report by RIA news agency. Google opted not to comment on the matter.

After authorities froze its bank accounts in summer 2022, Alphabet Inc.'s Russian unit filed for bankruptcy, though services like search and YouTube persisted without interruption.

Tensions have surged between Moscow and foreign tech giants over content and censorship. Google faced criticism in Russia for not eliminating specific content and for limiting access to some Russian media on YouTube.

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Meta to limit some Facebook comments on Israeli and Palestinian posts, reports Reuters

General

Oct 18, 2023

Meta Platforms, Facebook's parent company, introduced measures amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict to limit certain comments on related posts. Now, only friends and followers can comment on new and public posts from users "in the region", though Meta hasn't defined this region. Users can adjust this setting.

The company will also hide the first few comments on posts in the Facebook feed. They've emphasised their objective is to ensure safety and allow voice equality on their platforms.

Previously, claims arose that Meta was suppressing pro-Palestine content. However, Meta attributed visibility issues to a non-discriminative Instagram bug, unconnected to post content.

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As Publishers Try To Go Green(er), Sharethrough Pays To Measure Their Emissions, reports AdExchanger

General

Oct 18, 2023

Carbon Emissions

Advertisers are advocating for greener ad campaigns, leading publishers to assess their carbon footprints. SSP Sharethrough's new Net Zero Publisher Program helps by covering the emissions measurement costs for a year and connecting participants with eco-focused buyers via its Path to Net Zero Marketplace and Green PMPs.

European firm 51toCarbonZero will guide participants on reducing emissions to align with the Science-Based Targets initiative. Their strategies will assist publishers in achieving sustainability benchmarks.

Buyers increasingly favour eco-conscious publishers. IPG Mediabrands, backing the program, suggests a potential shift in ad budgets towards sustainable publishers. This move underlines the growing emphasis on sustainability in the advertising sector.

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EU Plans Stricter Rules for Most Powerful Generative AI Models, reports Bloomberg

General

Oct 18, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

The EU is formulating a three-tiered strategy to regulate generative AI models, with details emerging from a proposal accessed by Bloomberg. This regulation intends to oversee varying AI foundational models, with the most potent technologies undergoing added scrutiny.

The proposed tiers include: foundational models with mandated transparency; a "very capable" bracket with stricter controls based on computing power; and a top-tier for widespread general-purpose AI, governed by user volume.

This regulatory drive follows the rapid growth of generative AI tools. Though still under negotiation, the tiered approach is garnering support, ensuring AI's responsible evolution in the EU.

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Meta Product Chief Sees AI Chatbots as Tool to Lure Advertisers, reports Bloomberg

General

Oct 18, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

Meta's Chief Product Officer, Chris Cox, emphasised at the WSJ Tech Live conference that AI chatbots are becoming pivotal tools for advertisers, noting a significant demand from businesses for advanced tools.

After introducing free AI chatbots on Instagram and WhatsApp, Meta is strategising how to monetise these features, echoing its approach with past tools like Instagram's short-form videos.

Mark Zuckerberg, Meta's CEO, has been placing substantial focus on the company's leadership in AI, often overshadowing discussions about the metaverse, despite the company's rebrand from Facebook in 2021 to reflect a metaverse-centric vision.

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Ebiquity acquires Bloomberg Terminal for media pros to give clients direct access to market intel and data, reports Digiday

M&A

Oct 18, 2023

News Publishing

Media management company, Ebiquity, has acquired Transmit, described as the "Bloomberg Terminal for Media Pros." This strategic move diverges from their usual acquisitions, with Transmit offering a unique online portal. The platform serves as a comprehensive hub, presenting news, financial overviews on media stocks, and curated research for marketers.

Rebranded as 'Ebiquity Transmit', this portal will remain free for the year, but by 2024, certain features could become premium. Schreurs, the chief strategy officer, suggests a future freemium model, aiming to cater to the broader industry beyond just existing Ebiquity clients.

Scaling Ebiquity Transmit demands patience in publishing, underlined by the importance of consistency. As Ebiquity's media aspirations grow, the challenge will be in retaining its independent essence.

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X social media to test $1 annual subscription for basic features, reports Reuters

General

Oct 18, 2023

Social media platform X, previously Twitter, announced plans to trial a "Not A Bot" subscription model, costing an annual fee of $1 for fundamental features like liking and reposting. This move aims to thwart bots and spammers, with fees adjusted per country based on exchange rates. Initially, this will be rolled out in New Zealand and the Philippines.

Current users remain unaffected, while newcomers not opting for subscription can only view content and follow accounts.

Since Elon Musk's acquisition, X has been tackling bot issues, recently restricting tweet views. Additionally, X's CEO, Linda Yaccarino, discussed varying ad-based subscription tiers earlier this month.

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Independent ad tech urges regulators not to stop at divestiture to rein in Google, reports Digiday

General

Oct 18, 2023

Apple and Google face intense scrutiny in the ad tech domain. The Movement for an Open Web (MoW) urges the U.K.'s Competition Markets Authority to divest Google's ad tech assets and collaborate with G7 antitrust bodies on overseeing digital standards.

MoW's open letter expresses concerns over Google's third-party cookies phase-out in Privacy Sandbox. They propose limiting Safari and Chrome's functionalities and ensuring browser interoperability.

Recommendations also include reducing browsers' default services and promoting data interoperability. MoW co-founder, Tim Cowen, highlights the need to counteract Google's dominance and promote a competitive digital marketplace.

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WPP Merging VMLY&R With Wunderman Thompson, reports WSJ

M&A

Oct 17, 2023

London-based advertising heavyweight, WPP, is merging two of its prominent creative agencies, VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, aiming to streamline its offerings to marketers

The resultant agency, named VML, will employ over 30,000 individuals across 64 markets. This merger builds on WPP's previous integrations from 2018, blending traditional creative agencies with digital-centric counterparts.

Under the leadership of Jon Cook, the global CEO, and Mel Edwards, the global president, VML will focus on brand experience, customer experience, and commerce. Emphasising the move towards simplification, Chief Executive Mark Read highlighted the industry's shift beyond traditional advertising, expanding into realms like e-commerce, data consulting, and technology.

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Netflix effect returns as studios license old shows to their streaming rival, reports FT

General

Oct 17, 2023

Netflix's rivals are re-licensing old content to the streaming giant. Originally, major companies like Disney and NBCUniversal withdrew their shows from Netflix when launching their own platforms. Now, the allure of licensing revenue is drawing them back, exemplified by HBO's recent deals.

Analysts at Morgan Stanley deem this re-licensing trend favourable for Netflix. However, they caution it could strain Netflix's profit margins, given the associated costs and the company's diversifying investments, anticipating a higher expenditure for Netflix next year.

Licensing older shows to Netflix has reinvigorated their popularity. Series like "Suits" and "Ballers" witnessed resurgent viewership, showcasing the potent "Netflix effect".

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Omnicom Media Group aligns with SSPs through its CASA initiative to fight fraud and MFA abuse, reports Digiday

General

Oct 17, 2023

Omnicom Media Group (OMG) has unveiled initiatives during Advertising Week to enhance programmatic advertising standards. Under their Council on Accountability and Standards in Advertising (CASA), they're collaborating with six major SSPs, aiming to bypass 'made for advertising' sites and reduce fraud, ensuring more effective client campaigns.

OMG's Ryan Eusanio emphasised the importance of merging buying and selling processes, leveraging the data-rich sell side. This approach looks to optimise value generation for each client, with a focus on content alignment and fraud prevention.

Global stakeholders, including the Trustworthy Accountability Group (TAG), support OMG's CASA. Clients value the increased transparency and higher standards, boosting their confidence in the advertising sector.

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Netflix expands advertising opportunities, adds live sports sponsorships, reports MarketingDive

General

Oct 17, 2023

Netflix, at an Advertising Week New York event, introduced new advertising avenues including single-title sponsorships and its first-ever live sports event. Frito-Lay's Smartfood will sponsor "Love Is Blind", while the Netflix Cup, a unique golf match, gains T-Mobile and Nespresso as backers.

A forthcoming binge ad format will insert a brief brand advert during series binges, succeeded by an ad-free episode. Peter Naylor highlighted the significance of the approach, given 80% of ad-supported users watch over two hours continuously.

The Netflix Cup offers brands, like Nespresso aiming to boost their US presence, a distinct advertising platform blending racing and golf audiences.

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Meta will now let you stop Instagram from tracking you across the web, reports The Verge

General

Oct 17, 2023

Meta has enhanced user control on Instagram by allowing them to prevent the app from gathering their data across visited websites and applications.

Named "Activity Off-Meta Technologies", this feature, previously exclusive to Facebook, can be located within the platform’s Accounts Center. It helps users scrutinise which businesses share data with Meta, disconnect particular activities, or erase accumulated data.

Furthermore, the Accounts Center will now facilitate the transfer of photos and videos from Instagram to unspecified external services. Users can also simultaneously download data from both their Instagram and Facebook profiles, a feature that was previously separate for each platform.

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Google confirms sunset details for 4 attribution models in Ads and Analytics, reports Search Engine Land

General

Oct 17, 2023

Google will discontinue four attribution models in Google Ads and Analytics from mid-October 2023: First-click, Linear, Time decay, and Position-based. Those relying on these models will face challenges as the upcoming data-driven attribution formula, specific to each advertiser, remains undisclosed.

Current setups using these models will auto-convert to data-driven attribution for paid and organic data. Google's decision is prompted by a meagre 3% usage of these models in Google Ads conversions, expecting a 6% conversion increase post-switch.

Google champions data-driven attribution for better understanding touchpoint impacts on conversions, while highlighting the inflexibility of the outgoing rule-based models.

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Amazon Offered to Settle California Antitrust Suit in 2022, reports Bloomberg

General

Oct 17, 2023

Days before facing an antitrust lawsuit by California, Amazon proposed a settlement, suggesting modifications to their seller notifications and pricing policies. Amazon's intention was to clarify they wouldn't mandate price parity with other platforms.

California, however, proceeded with their lawsuit. They claim Amazon's agreements hinder merchants from presenting better prices on competing platforms, enforcing severe penalties if they do.

This action by California follows prior allegations that Amazon's policies effectively push sellers to increase prices on other platforms like Walmart.

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Omnicom Media Group Earnings For Q3 2023 Show +3.9% YoY Revenue Growth, Net Income Up By +2.0% YoY

+ 4% YoY Opinions

Earnings

Oct 17, 2023

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Expert Opinions

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Meta and US government spar in court over toughened privacy order, reports Reuters

General

Oct 17, 2023

Advertising To Children

Meta, owner of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is contesting the U.S. Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) bid to modify a 2019 privacy order.

The FTC's move follows claims Meta misled parents using the Messenger Kids app and aims to prevent the company from profiting from minors' data.

Representing Meta, James Rouhandeh stated that the firm's consent is vital for any changes, while the FTC maintained it alone decides on altering settlements. Judge Timothy Kelly expressed doubt over Meta's jurisdiction claims and anticipates delivering a verdict by November 30. The outcome will determine if the 2019 agreement will be adjusted and how.

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Kroger To Measure The Carbon Emissions Impact Of Its Retail Media Network, reports AdAge

General

Oct 17, 2023

Carbon Emissions

Kroger Precision Marketing has partnered with Scope3 to measure digital ad carbon emissions. Using Scope3's tools, they'll align Kroger's audience data to quantify the carbon footprint of offsite media campaigns, guiding advertising decisions.

Scope3 highlights the dual benefits of carbon reduction in digital advertising: environmental conservation and better campaign outcomes. Excessive inefficient digital impressions are detrimental both to the environment and business.

Cara Pratt from Kroger Precision Marketing expressed the industry's growing interest in understanding and addressing carbon footprints. She's optimistic about their collaborative potential to reduce emissions in digital advertising.

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Brand TikToks Are Coming To Billboards As Part Of New OOH Offering, reports AdAge

General

Oct 17, 2023

TikTok unveiled its "Out of Phone" service during Advertising Week New York, allowing brands to expand their TikTok videos to various out-of-home (OOH) screens or showcase ads alongside TikTok-curated video content.

This initiative is an extension of TikTok's efforts, spearheaded by its New Screens team formed in 2021, to broaden its content's reach beyond mobile devices, incorporating venues like airports, fuel stations, and movie theatres.

While the "Out of Phone" strategy seeks to bolster existing TikTok campaigns, Dan Page, head of the New Screens team, emphasised that TikTok remains optimal when consumed on personal devices.

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IPG launches identity resolution cloud application as the industry prepares for a cookieless world, reports Digiday

General

Oct 17, 2023

User Identifiers

Interpublic Group (IPG) introduced Real ID, a cloud tool developed by Acxiom, streamlining consumer data into unified profiles, enhancing agency-brand interactions.

Eugene Becker of Acxiom highlighted the tool's adaptability, facilitating budgeting and audience targeting across major platforms like Facebook. Amidst the waning use of cookies, IPG's solution interprets first-party data, preserving user anonymity.

Real ID uniquely identifies customer data, ensuring adherence to data regulations. It pivots towards genuine human insights, adjusting to dynamic market and technological shifts.

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U.S. lawmaker seeks answers from Meta, X, Google and TikTok over Israel-Hamas false content, reports Reuters

General

Oct 17, 2023

US Senator Michael Bennet has questioned tech giants Meta, X, TikTok, and Google about curbing misleading content related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. He emphasised that their algorithms often amplify false information, exacerbating the misinformation cycle.

While these platforms have taken some measures, with TikTok employing more content moderators and Meta addressing hundreds of thousands of misleading posts, Bennet believes these actions remain insufficient.

Additionally, he criticised these companies for cutting their trust and safety teams, essential for monitoring content accuracy. Such decisions, he argues, contribute to global discord and a contentious information landscape.

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Some Black-owned publications push back on MFA reform amid declining traffic, reports Digiday

General

Oct 17, 2023

Diversity & Inclusion

Black-owned publishers face challenges as the industry cracks down on made-for-advertising sites (MFAs). Despite increased ad budgets following the 2020 George Floyd incident, declining referrals from platforms like Facebook hinder their advertising commitments.

To meet demands, some buy traffic, risking an MFA label. However, the MFA definition remains nebulous, causing further dilemmas. Dévon Christopher Johnson of BleuLife Media likened it to developed nations' fossil fuel usage.

Caught in this predicament, smaller Black-owned publishers grapple with growth while dodging the MFA label, complicating their business trajectories.

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Elon Musk’s X Courts Political Advertisers Ahead of a Contentious Election Year, reports WSJ

General

Oct 16, 2023

X, previously known as Twitter, is targeting political advertisers after Elon Musk reversed an earlier ban on such ads. This strategy emerges ahead of the 2023-2024 election cycle, where estimated spending will reach $10.2 billion, with $1.2 billion dedicated to digital platforms.

Despite deterring some brands, X's robust political debates and reduced content moderation have attracted political campaigners. Tim Cameron of FlexPoint Media notes that X is cost-effective for reaching passionate supporters compared to other platforms.

However, Jasmine Enberg of Insider Intelligence remains sceptical about political advertising reversing X's revenue decline, highlighting the platform's broader challenges and changing landscape.

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Google Endorses Online Safety Law, Ban On Targeted Ads To Minors, reports MediaPost

General

Oct 16, 2023

Advertising To Children

Google has recommended legislators consider minors' "best interests" when formulating online services and to ban targeted ads to teenagers based on demographics. Contextual ads, which relate to content or general location, would be permitted.

Kent Walker, president of global affairs at Google, emphasised the significance of safety and balanced online practices for young users. Google suggests digital products should be designed prioritising young users' welfare and interests.

Amid growing concerns about online safety for youths, several US states have introduced protective laws. However, challenges arise due to potential First Amendment rights violations, especially concerning age verification methods.

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GroupM deal with Amazon to use influencer content in ads sees 300% uptick in CTRs, reports The Drum

General

Oct 16, 2023

Influencer Marketing

GroupM subsidiary, Goat, has partnered with Amazon, enabling marketers to embed creator content within Amazon's ad platform. Goat's distinctive creator ad formats will be integrated into Amazon's demand-side platform (DSP) and 'Sponsored Brands' layout, enhancing product relatability for consumers.

Gaining access to Amazon Ads' insights, Goat aims to merge creator content with sales performance, underscoring influencer content's efficacy in engaging audiences.

Preliminary tests reveal a 300% surge in click-through rates, demonstrating the potency of authentic creator content. This alliance introduces a novel perspective on social commerce, centring on consumer shopping behaviours.

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AWS Entity Resolution Expands Data Matching Capabilities with LiveRamp, TransUnion and Unified ID 2.0 Integrations

General

Oct 16, 2023

User Identifiers

Launched in July 2023, AWS Entity Resolution assists companies like Best Western in consolidating related records, offering a clearer view of customers.

AWS has now integrated with LiveRamp, TransUnion, and Unified ID 2.0. This move streamlines data linking, reduces custom coding, and enhances marketing across digital platforms.

Endorsements from LiveRamp, TransUnion, and The Trade Desk highlight the tool's promise in enhancing data accuracy and marketing strategies. AWS Entity Resolution is available in several global regions.

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PubMatic and FreeWheel Announce Integration of PubMatic’s Activate

General

Oct 16, 2023

PubMatic has announced a new collaboration with FreeWheel.

This partnership will allow PubMatic’s Activate direct access to premium connected television (CTV) ad slots via FreeWheel, benefitting the TV ad ecosystem in two significant ways: it grants ad buyers with PubMatic an expanded pool of premium CTV ad inventory and provides FreeWheel publishers with exclusive campaign budgets from Activate.

Both companies aim to increase efficiency, transparency, and scalability in transactions involving premium CTV ad spaces, ensuring advertisers and agencies, like Dentsu, gain deeper insights into ad placements.

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The Google antitrust trial has been frustratingly locked down, the NYT just filed a motion to open it up, reports The Verge

General

Oct 16, 2023

Google's significant antitrust trial has seen limited public access, with Judge Amit Mehta largely supporting Google's claim that its search business details are too sensitive for open discussion. As a result, many sessions are closed to the public, and trial documents are released with delays.

Compared to extensively reported tech trials like FTC v. Microsoft or Epic v. Apple, media coverage for this trial is noticeably sparse due to the restricted access.

In response, The New York Times, backed by other major publications, has filed a motion for greater transparency, highlighting the importance of public understanding and trust in the justice system.

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Google’s Deals Lock Up 50% of US Searches, DOJ Expert Says, reports Bloomberg

General

Oct 16, 2023

Google's exclusive contracts, making it the default search engine on PCs and mobiles, block competitors from half of all US search queries, said the US Justice Department's expert, Michael Whinston, during an antitrust trial.

The Department argues that Alphabet Inc.'s multi-billion dollar deals with companies like Apple and Samsung maintain Google's search monopoly, hindering competitors like Bing and DuckDuckGo from accessing up to 50% of US searches.

Whinston's analysis, based on internal data from search firms and user behaviour patterns, suggested that 33% of US searches always default, leaving rivals a potential market of just 17%.

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YouTube gets new AI-powered ads that let brands target special cultural moments, reports TechCrunch

General

Oct 16, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

YouTube has unveiled "Spotlight Moments", utilising Google AI to identify trending videos linked to cultural events. This enables advertisers to feature ads on pertinent videos in a branded YouTube channel. Marketing firm GroupM has already adopted this feature.

Google AI underpins many consumer interfaces, determining ad exposure. YouTube's recent AI initiatives, like Video Reach and Video View campaigns, optimise user engagement and cost efficiency using Google's AI strengths.

Historically, AI has been integral in ad targeting. Google now envisions a shift, leveraging generative AI to redefine its ad strategies, introducing conversational interfaces and AI-driven asset creation for enhanced brand promotion.

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TikTok Fights Back Over €345 Million Teen Privacy Fine in EU, reports Bloomberg

General

Oct 16, 2023

Advertising To Children

TikTok is challenging a €345 million data privacy penalty imposed by European regulators, accusing the platform of neglecting the private data of its young users. The ByteDance subsidiary lodged an appeal in the EU's General Court and is contesting an Irish regulator's directive to halt "deceptive or manipulative" actions threatening user privacy.

The penalty comes amidst heightened scrutiny over TikTok's child protection measures. Moreover, the firm, alongside Meta Platforms Inc. and Elon Musk's X, recently faced EU warnings regarding misinformation dissemination.

The Irish Data Protection Commission's September fine asserted TikTok breached GDPR rules, especially concerning minors aged 13 to 17, between July and December 2020.

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Brands Are Handing Out Freebies at Walmart as Online Ads Lose Appeal, reports Bloomberg

General

Oct 16, 2023

Brands in the US are revisiting in-store free samples due to declining online ad effectiveness. Retail giants like Walmart and Wakefern are expanding such initiatives, valuing the tactile experience for consumers.

The move stems from tighter digital privacy laws and rising online ad costs. Michelle Razavi of Elavi nut butter found in-store sampling at Costco more impactful than online methods.

Blending in-store sampling with digital strategies, firms like Freeosk offer automated kiosks that combine physical sampling with data gathering. Many brands now realise that significant retail purchases remain in brick-and-mortar outlets.

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Netflix Deepens Videogame Push, Ripping Page From Its Hollywood Script, reports WSJ

General

Oct 16, 2023

Gaming / Metaverse

Netflix is delving deeper into the gaming industry, with plans to adapt popular series such as "Squid Game". While initially focusing on mobile games, ambitions extend to high-end PC and TV games, putting them in direct competition with giants like Sony.

Although gaming enhances subscriber value and aims to offset declining numbers, a small percentage of its 238 million subscribers engage with games daily, indicating a challenging journey ahead.

Emulating its TV strategy, Netflix will not only produce unique game titles but will also license renowned games. This balanced approach is hoped to draw and retain a broader user base amidst stiff competition.

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LinkedIn to lay off hundreds of people amid broader restructuring, reports Axios

General

Oct 16, 2023

LinkedIn is set to axe over 660 jobs, more than 3% of its global workforce. This comes after a significant round of layoffs in May and the closure of its Chinese app, InCareer, amid a wider company restructuring.

The layoffs align with LinkedIn's enhanced focus on artificial intelligence. The company recently introduced several AI-driven product features, including tools tailored for recruiters and premium subscribers.

Despite the changes, LinkedIn's growth is undeterred. Founded in 2002, the platform's annual revenue recently surpassed $15 billion, with its user base, now at 950 million, consistently growing across over 200 global regions.

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Omnicom Media Group tackles standards across the media spectrum, starting with social, reports Digiday

General

Oct 16, 2023

Omnicom Media Group (OMG) is introducing initiatives under its Council for Accountability and Standards in Advertising (CASA) during New York's Advertising Week. This move addresses challenges in media investment, particularly with the upcoming U.S. presidential election and potential AI-driven misinformation.

Established in 2020 during the Stop Hate for Profit campaigns, CASA seeks to set advertising standards and ensure brand safety. Collaborations with the Global Alliance for Responsible Media and the 4A’s have helped define these standards.

Rob Pearsall of OMG emphasised CASA's proactive strategy, providing clients with crisis management solutions. Major clients have endorsed CASA, underlining its effectiveness across platforms.

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TikTok touts its curated audiences to advertisers to drive Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, reports Digiday

General

Oct 16, 2023

TikTok is targeting Black Friday ad revenues, introducing customised "Hashtag Audiences" to lure advertisers. These packages identify users likely to purchase specific brands, urging advertisers to spend at least $1,000 daily over a week during Q4.

While some insiders view TikTok's suggested $250,000 advertising spend during Black Friday and Cyber Monday as feasible, others opine that such features should be algorithmically inbuilt without added costs.

The platform's significant influence on big sales events is evident from its impact on Amazon's Prime Day, highlighting TikTok's potential in shaping buyer behaviour during peak shopping periods.

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Australia Fines X for Not Providing Information on Child Abuse Content, reports NYT

General

Oct 15, 2023

X, formerly Twitter, told Australian officials that its auto-detection of abusive content waned after Elon Musk's acquisition. Australia fined X 610,500 Australian dollars (about $384,000) for failing to detail its anti-child exploitation measures. The detection rate for abusive material dropped from 90% to 75% post-acquisition.

Google and X both faced criticism for insufficient responses to regulator inquiries, with X's omissions deemed more significant. X asserts a "zero-tolerance policy" on child abuse content, employing both software and expert reviews.

Despite X's stance that children aren't their main audience, its CEO highlighted Generation Z as their fastest-growing user base, with millions visiting monthly.

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TikTok details disinformation steps taken after EU demand, reports Reuters

General

Oct 15, 2023

TikTok has swiftly mobilised resources to combat hate and misinformation following Hamas' attack on Israel.

The EU's industry head, Thierry Breton, provided the platform a 24-hour window to explain its countermeasures against disinformation on the Middle East conflict, alongside an inquiry into Elon Musk's X.

Although the video app did not clarify its response to Breton, TikTok stated its condemnation of terrorism and voiced distress over the crisis in Gaza. To manage the situation, the ByteDance-owned platform has introduced a command centre, refined its detection systems, increased multilingual moderators, restricted live broadcast features, and collaborated with law enforcement.

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U.S. antitrust enforcer says pressing on with fight against Microsoft-Activision deal, reports Reuters

General

Oct 13, 2023

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) confirmed its ongoing focus on the appeal against Microsoft's $69 billion acquisition of Activision.

While the deal received a green light in Britain, it required the sale of streaming rights for Activision's games to Ubisoft Entertainment to appease UK competition concerns.

In the U.S., the FTC's opposition to the transaction continues, with an appeals court session scheduled for December 6. Spokeswoman Victoria Graham stated that the new agreement between Microsoft, Activision, and Ubisoft introduces additional complexities. The FTC maintains its stance that the merger poses a competitive threat.

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Business boomed for Publicis in Q3, reports MarketingBrew

General

Oct 13, 2023

Publicis posted a 5.3% rise in Q3 organic revenue, outdoing the predicted 3.7%. The firm witnessed growth across the US, Europe, and Asia Pacific regions, adjusting its yearly organic growth forecast to 5.5%-6%.

The upbeat performance is attributed to diverse revenue avenues and the success of platforms like Epsilon and Publicis Sapient. CEO Arthur Sadoun highlighted their Creative division's resilience amidst industry challenges.

Key aims for Publicis include resuming in-person work by January and bolstering AI capabilities. The agency's recent acquisitions have significantly enhanced their AI services, marking notable achievements for the quarter.

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The New York Times quietly brought open programmatic ads back to its app, reports Insider

General

Oct 13, 2023

The New York Times (NYT) is reintroducing open programmatic advertising to its mobile app, after removing it in 2019 due to user experience concerns. Previously, such ads were retained only on their website.

Following industry advancements, the NYT has partnered with selected adtech firms to sell ads on their popular News app, ensuring a balance between advertising and user experience. Though specific partners for the app remain undisclosed, several are approved for the website.

This strategic pivot reflects publishers' focus on scalable, quality programmatic ads. The move is paying off, with the NYT recently reporting a 6.5% rise in digital advertising.

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YouTube is the latest large platform to face EU scrutiny regarding the war in Israel, reports The Verge

General

Oct 13, 2023

European Commissioner Thierry Breton alerted Alphabet's CEO, Sundar Pichai, about YouTube's duty under the EU’s Digital Services Act to address illegal content, particularly during the Israel-Hamas conflict. Breton emphasised protecting EU minors from violence and the platform's need to quickly react to EU directives.

YouTube's spokesperson, Ivy Choi, confirmed the removal of numerous harmful videos, ensuring users are directed to credible news. The platform remains vigilant across all content forms.

Breton also highlighted concerns about election disinformation, urging YouTube to tackle deepfakes before European elections. He sought proactive reporting from YouTube, echoing similar communications to other tech giants.

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TikTok scores sizable Disney deal including a content hub and publisher partnership, reports TechCrunch

General

Oct 13, 2023

TikTok has partnered with Disney for its Pulse Premiere ad product. This collaboration introduces a dedicated Disney "content hub" on the app, where fans can access and create Disney-themed content, marking Disney's centenary celebration.

Despite TikTok's recent controversies, Disney's decision to collaborate recognises the platform's immense reach, with Disney content garnering over 240 billion views on the app. The partnership emphasises the app's influence, with Disney's Chief Brand Officer noting TikTok's pivotal role for Disney enthusiasts.

From October 16, this initiative will activate 48 Disney account handles globally, spanning Pixar to Star Wars, bolstered by a special Disney100 Playlist, aiming to enhance user engagement.

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Kids Suing Social Media Over Addiction Find a Win Amid Losses, reports Bloomberg

General

Oct 13, 2023

Minors and parents in California have secured a pivotal court ruling against tech giants like Meta Inc.’s Facebook over alleged child addiction to their platforms.

State judge Carolyn B. Kuhl has permitted lawsuits based on claims that these companies designed their platforms to be addictive, leading to detrimental mental health effects in children.

Despite many tech firms invoking Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act as a liability shield, Kuhl ruled it doesn't hinder the negligence claim in these specific California cases. While Google defended its protective measures for children, other implicated companies are yet to respond.

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Supreme Court Extends Pause in Biden Social Media Contact Case, reports Bloomberg

General

Oct 13, 2023

The US Supreme Court has extended its temporary hold on a lower-court decision that could limit the Biden administration's engagements with social media firms.

This extension, granted by Justice Samuel Alito, allows the court additional time to determine its approach to the case, which addresses the administration's actions against online misinformation surrounding Covid-19. Several Republican states argue that urging social media platforms to counter false information breaches the First Amendment.

This temporary delay, set to end at 5 p.m. New York time on Oct. 20, maintains the current situation without indicating the court's stance on the case's fundamentals.

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Meta takes steps to remove Hamas-related disinformation, reports Reuters

General

Oct 13, 2023

Meta is removing content that supports Hamas from its platforms after the European Union criticised social media's handling of misinformation. Following Hamas's attack on Israel, Meta took down over 795,000 misleading posts in Hebrew or Arabic within three days.

The company has broadened its violence and incitement policy, erasing content about Hamas hostages, emphasising the safety and privacy of victims. They're also ramping up efforts against potential rule breaches across Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.

Facing pressure from the EU's Digital Services Act (DSA), Meta has been proactive, contrasting with platform X (previously Twitter), which is under EU investigation

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Microsoft’s $69 Billion Activision Deal Cleared by UK, reports Bloomberg

M&A

Oct 13, 2023

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has approved Microsoft Corp's $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard Inc. This follows Microsoft's decision to sell some gaming rights to Ubisoft Entertainment SA, addressing the CMA's initial competition concerns.

The acquisition previously faced global scrutiny, including an initial UK veto. However, it gained momentum after Microsoft successfully challenged the Federal Trade Commission’s court stance. The European Union had already cleared the deal in May, leaving the CMA's decision as the final significant regulatory barrier.

With this deal, Microsoft aims to bolster its gaming portfolio with titles like "Call of Duty" and break into the $93 billion mobile gaming market.

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Scope3 Raises $20 Million to Expand Business Measuring Digital Ads’ Emissions, reports WSJ

General

Oct 12, 2023

Carbon Emissions

Scope3, led by Brian O’Kelley, secured $20 million in funding, valuing the firm at $100 million. This company aids marketers in gauging and reducing the carbon emissions of their digital advertisements. GV, an Alphabet-backed venture firm, took the lead in this funding round.

Online ads are believed to account for about 10% of the internet's energy use. Scope3 will utilise its funds to refine its platform, offering users detailed emissions and sustainability data to drive down carbon outputs.

After adopting Scope3’s technology, media firm Insider slashed its ad-related carbon emissions by 23% in a quarter, exemplifying the platform's potential impact on advertising choices.

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New Working Group Wants To Expedite Retail Media OpenRTB Standards, reports AdExchanger

General

Oct 12, 2023

The IAB Tech Lab's efforts to standardise retail media face competition from an independent group, including programmatic and retail media companies, led by ad tech start-up Kevel.

They are proactively developing OpenRTB standards for retail media, aimed at addressing sponsored listings in automated online advertising. Despite the IAB Tech Lab's recent unveiling of its retail media standards proposal, the Kevel-led group believes quicker action is essential.

This new consortium, comprising members like The Trade Desk, PubMatic, and Instacart, intends to embed the new ad channel within the existing OpenRTB framework, streamlining programmatic sponsored listings across various company networks.

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Google Ad Changes Leave Marketers Flying Blind, Expert Says, reports Bloomberg

General

Oct 12, 2023

Google updated its advertising platform, reducing data visibility for advertisers, highlighted Kinshuk Jerath at a US antitrust trial. In 2020, Google's changes curtailed details on roughly 20% of text ad spends, citing user privacy.

The adjustments mean advertisers have diminished insight into ad purchases, and it's more challenging to opt out of specific ad auctions. This has resulted in increased costs and reduced transparency.

The US Justice Department alleges that Google aims to maintain an online search monopoly. Notably, search ads account for over 60% of Google's revenue, equating to over $100 billion in 2020.

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Judge questions Montana’s ban on TikTok, reports The Verge

General

Oct 12, 2023

A US federal judge in Montana expressed doubts over the state's unique ban on TikTok during a recent hearing. TikTok and its creators had sued Montana earlier, alleging the ban infringes upon free speech rights and is unconstitutional. The state defended the ban as a measure to safeguard Montanans' online privacy.

US District Judge Donald W. Molloy challenged Montana's reasoning and evidence for national security concerns, questioning whether the state should dictate user data decisions. Montana remains the only US state with such a ban, a fact Molloy highlighted.

The judge aims to make a prompt decision on a preliminary injunction.

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Comcast and Disney hire investment banks to value Hulu as sale process makes progress, reports CNBC

M&A

Oct 12, 2023

Comcast and Disney have initiated the valuation of Hulu, a major streaming service. Comcast, holding a third of Hulu, has engaged Morgan Stanley, while Disney, owning the remaining stake, has enlisted JPMorgan Chase. This action is pursuant to a 2019 agreement, permitting either party to enforce an option for Disney to buy Comcast’s 33% share.

Previously, Comcast hesitated to sell, foreseeing the rising value of streaming. They formed an arrangement, initially set for January 2024 but advanced to September 30, to determine Hulu’s valuation.

On November 1, a buyout option can be activated. The final price hinges on the banks' valuation concurrence, with a set floor of $27.5 billion.

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TikTok Gets EU Warning Over Violent Videos and Disinformation From Hamas-Israel War Reported on App, reports Variety

General

Oct 12, 2023

The EU has warned TikTok over its alleged distribution of illegal content and disinformation related to the Hamas-Israel conflict. EU Commissioner Thierry Breton highlighted in a letter to TikTok's CEO, Shou Zi Chew, that the Digital Services Act mandates strict content moderation rules, urging a rapid response within 24 hours.

This follows similar warnings issued to X/Twitter's Elon Musk and Meta's Mark Zuckerberg. TikTok emphasised its commitment to EU regulations and noted the bolstering of its moderation in Hebrew and Arabic, along with collaboration with fact-checking organisations.

Breton emphasised the app's duty to protect young users from graphic content, urging alignment with law enforcement and Europol for compliance.

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After delays, X updates Community Notes fact-checks to improve speed and distribution, reports TechCrunch

General

Oct 12, 2023

X, formerly Twitter, is enhancing its fact-checking system after recent delays in countering misinformation. CEO Linda Yaccarino has promised faster updates, particularly following the surge of posts about the terrorist attack on Israel.

Updates include note previews on Android and web (soon on iOS) for quicker fact-check validations. Additionally, users who interact with fact-checked posts will receive notifications, prompting accuracy checks.

However, the vast number of posts about the attacks raises questions about the system's efficiency, despite technological advancements.

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EU opens probe into Elon Musk’s X over Israel-Hamas war misinformation, reports FT

General

Oct 12, 2023

The EU has launched an investigation into X (previously Twitter) for disseminating illegal content and misinformation following the Hamas-Israel attacks. Under the new Digital Services Act, non-compliance could result in fines based on X's daily global earnings.

The probe aims to discern X's strategies against misinformation, marking the first application of the Digital Services Act's powers, crafted to ensure Europeans' online safety.

Amid concerns about disinformation surrounding the Palestinian-Israeli conflict on X, EU Commissioner Thierry Breton challenged Elon Musk over the platform's duties. TikTok has also been flagged by the EU regarding its responsibilities.

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Google Warns the EU That It Will Fight Attempts to Break Up Ad Business, reports Bloomberg

General

Oct 12, 2023

Google is gearing up for a major antitrust battle with the European Union, echoing its ongoing conflicts in the US. The tech behemoth has signalled its resistance to the EU's suggestion of divesting its advertising tech arm to boost competition.

In June, the EU raised concerns over Google's adtech practices, suggesting its own exchange, AdX, may unjustly benefit at the expense of competitors.

Anticipating prolonged legal disputes, Google plans to formally contest these EU claims by year-end, maintaining its ad practices are fair and crucial for market operation.

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Google to pay German publishers 3.2 million euros per year on interim basis, reports Reuters

General

Oct 12, 2023

News Publishing

Google has agreed to annually pay German publishers €3.2 million for showcasing news content, while awaiting a ruling from the German patent office (DPMA). This arrangement was made with Corint Media, an association representing both German and international publishers, such as Sat.1, ProSieben, and Axel Springer.

Google emphasised that these payments align with their current agreements with 470 German publications, including Spiegel and Zeit, for using headlines and excerpts.

However, Corint Media, which initially demanded €420 million for 2022 content usage, hopes the DPMA's decision will significantly increase Google's remuneration. They had earlier settled on a one-time €5.8 million payment from Google for 2021.

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Canada news industry body backs Google's concerns about online news law, reports Reuters

General

Oct 12, 2023

News Publishing

News Media Canada (NMC), which represents leading Canadian newspapers, has backed some of Google's apprehensions about a Canadian law designed to make internet giants share ad revenue with news publishers.

Alphabet-owned Google has highlighted concerns, shared by the NMC, over regulations potentially placing unlimited financial liabilities on them and restricting their capability to support the news industry.

Despite Canada's attempts to address these tech worries in a September draft, companies like Google remain sceptical. The tech firm emphasises that basing payment on news linking could endanger free press and public access to news.

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Google to defend generative AI users from copyright claims, reports Reuters

General

Oct 12, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

Google has pledged to defend Google Cloud and Workspace users facing intellectual property violation claims due to generative artificial intelligence (AI) systems. This move mirrors commitments by Microsoft and Adobe amid concerns from copyright holders about AI system infringements.

The tech giant's stance encompasses claims arising from both training AI with copyrighted material and the content these AI systems produce. Notably absent from the announcement was Google's chatbot program, Bard.

Google stipulated the protection doesn't cover deliberate infringements. Most AI-related lawsuits target companies, not users, and AI defenders argue using scraped online data for training is "fair use" under US copyright law.

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Google’s AI-powered search experience can now generate images and write drafts, reports TechCrunch

General

Oct 12, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

Google has updated its AI-driven SGE (Search Generative Experience), introducing a feature that can generate images from user prompts, similar to Bing's OpenAI integration. Furthermore, users can tailor content length and tone using a new drafting capability within SGE.

The platform's rapid advancements also include AI summarisation and term definition. The image-generation tool will be integrated into Google Image search, enabling custom image creation from prompts.

To prevent misuse, Google restricts this feature to users over 18 and has implemented rigorous filtering policies. These updates will be initially available to selected SGE users in the U.S., with broader access in the pipeline.

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Instacart Partners With DoubleVerify, IAS on Ad Authentication, reports Progressive Grocer

General

Oct 12, 2023

Instacart, the grocery technology firm, is collaborating with digital media software platform DoubleVerify (DV) and media measurement platform Integral Ad Science (IAS) to enhance media verification and advertiser performance. This aims to ensure that Instacart's video and display ads are viewed by genuine audiences and are shielded from fraudulent activities.

San Francisco's Instacart collaborates with over 1,400 retail banners, aiding more than 5,500 brands in online advertising. Mark Zagorski, CEO of DoubleVerify, and Lisa Utzschneider, CEO of IAS, both emphasised the significance of transparency and measurable value in advertising.

In related news, Instacart recently began trading on NASDAQ after pricing its shares at $30 for its IPO.

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Buyers Question Inventory Quality, Transparency on Google's AI-powered Performance Max, reports AdWeek

General

Oct 12, 2023

Ad buyers express reservations about Google's AI-powered tool, Performance Max (Pmax). Many report that a significant percentage of their impressions end up on less favoured open web inventory rather than Google's prime properties like Search and YouTube.

Although Pmax offers insights on ads' placements across the web, it doesn't reveal specifics about YouTube channel placements. This has raised concerns, especially following a recent report suggesting that some ads might unintentionally target children on YouTube.

Many buyers are advocating for more transparency and comprehensive reporting from Google, hoping for a clearer understanding of ad placements, spend, and performance metrics.

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NY officials announce legislation aimed at protecting kids on social media, reports CNN

General

Oct 11, 2023

Advertising To Children

New York is introducing two bills to enhance online protection for children. Announced by Governor Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James, these proposals will regulate children's online content and limit data usage by companies.

The "Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) for Kids Act" allows youths to opt out of algorithm-driven social media feeds and introduces usage restrictions during specific hours.

The New York Child Data Protection Act aims to shield children's online data by prohibiting its collection, use, or sale for advertising without explicit consent. Breaches could lead to significant penalties, enabling parents or guardians to seek legal damages.

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India has embraced WhatsApp, but Meta now needs to make it pay, reports FT

General

Oct 11, 2023

Mark Zuckerberg emphasised India's importance to WhatsApp's future business prospects during a recent conference. Despite previous challenges in the country, WhatsApp is becoming integral for businesses, facilitating activities like grocery orders.

Collaborations like the partnership with JioMart, a part of Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Industries, indicate India's potential as a pivotal market for WhatsApp.

Nevertheless, monetising the app's widespread use in India remains a challenge. While many local businesses access its features freely, Meta aims to generate revenue from larger business transactions and integrate services across Facebook and Instagram.

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Microsoft’s Tweaks to $69 Billion Activision Deal Avoid EU Probe, reports Bloomberg

M&A

Oct 11, 2023

Microsoft's $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard is poised to sidestep another EU scrutiny, following changes made to appease the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).

The CMA initially blocked the deal due to cloud gaming competition concerns. Microsoft's revised proposal, allowing Ubisoft Entertainment SA to distribute Activision's cloud games, seems to have mitigated these issues, with CMA's approval anticipated soon.

Despite diminishing EU concerns, Microsoft still faces hurdles in the US, as the Federal Trade Commission examines the deal further.

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Southeast Asia eyes hands-off AI rules, defying EU ambitions, reports Reuters

General

Oct 11, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

Southeast Asian nations are favouring a business-friendly approach to AI regulation, diverging from the European Union's drive for global rules aligned with its strict standards. A confidential draft of ASEAN's "guide to AI ethics and governance" is under review by tech giants like Meta, IBM, and Google, emphasising cultural nuances and voluntary compliance.

In contrast to the EU's prescriptive AI Act, ASEAN's guide remains adaptable to the region's diverse legal and cultural landscape. Tech leaders welcome its flexibility, citing fewer compliance constraints and fostering innovation.

The EU, while acknowledging cultural differences, remains committed to advocating foundational principles in AI regulation, promoting human rights, and ensuring AI's responsible deployment.

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Germany's anti-discrimination agency quits X over anti-minority posts, reports Reuters

General

Oct 11, 2023

Diversity & Inclusion

Germany's Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency plans to leave social platform X (formerly Twitter) due to rising intolerance towards minorities. The decision follows misinformation spread after Hamas's attacks in Israel, with the agency's commissioner, Ferda Ataman, stressing X's unsuitability for public bodies amidst hate content.

German officials, however, retain their X presence, emphasising the platform's broad public outreach. Notably, Chancellor Olaf Scholz remains active there.

In response, X aims to control inappropriate content, including removing Hamas-related accounts. Still, Ataman questions X's value, urging state bodies to reconsider their X affiliations.

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EU urges Big Tech to tackle terrorist content after Hamas attack, reports Reuters

General

Oct 11, 2023

The EU has escalated its demands for tech companies to eradicate illegal content, following increased misinformation surrounding Middle East conflicts. EU's Thierry Breton gave warnings to Elon Musk and Meta's Mark Zuckerberg, requiring action plans within 24 hours.

The European Commission underscored that any Hamas-related content is illegal per the Digital Services Act (DSA) and Terrorist Content Online (TCO) Regulation. Platforms, including X and Facebook, are obligated to comply.

Breaching the DSA could result in fines up to 6% of global turnover. Persistent violators might face a total ban in Europe. The breadth of Breton's outreach to other firms is uncertain.

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Google Launches Ad Measurement Tool For Brands In The Post-cookie Era, reports AdAge

General

Oct 11, 2023

Cookie Deprecation

Google unveiled its new Google Ads Data Manager, designed to integrate with marketers' first-party data in the evolving digital advertising landscape. Kamal Janardhan from Google Ads emphasised its design to accommodate "cookie deprecation" and modern data constraints.

As internet advertising rules change, prioritising first-party data due to restrictions on third-party cookies, marketers now require explicit consumer data consent. Upcoming changes, like Google Chrome phasing out third-party cookies, further underscore this shift.

Google's new tool facilitates the merging of data from different sources, targeting both large and small advertisers. It streamlines integrations, simplifying what previously took months into just a few clicks.

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California Governor Signs Delete Act, reports MediaPost

General

Oct 11, 2023

California Governor Gavin Newsom has ratified the Delete Act, allowing residents to effortlessly erase their data from all registered data brokers via a unified system managed by the California Privacy Protection Agency.

Ad industry groups oppose the act, cautioning that it might hinder the availability of free or cheap online services. They stress that such data sustains these services and that the act could impede small business marketing and essential anti-fraud measures.

Supporters, including the Electronic Frontier Foundation, endorse the law for enhancing individual data control. They highlight the current impracticality of residents approaching numerous data brokers separately.

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Blackstone holds initial talks with Disney for stake in India arm, reports Reuters

M&A

Oct 11, 2023

Private equity firm Blackstone has entered initial talks with Walt Disney to acquire a stake in Disney's Indian division. Amid intense competition in India, Disney has been contemplating either a sale or a joint venture partnership for its digital and TV segment.

Blackstone-supported U.S. media entity, Candle Media, led by former Disney executives, facilitated the preliminary discussions. Both Blackstone and Disney remain tight-lipped about the ongoing discussions.

Disney aims to bolster its Indian streaming service by offering free cricket on smartphones. However, it has recently lost significant cricket streaming rights to a broadcasting unit owned by Indian billionaire, Mukesh Ambani.

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