Ebiquity Transmit - Wires

Ebiquity Transmit

Tags

Ad Fraud

Advertising To Children

Agency Management

Antitrust

Artificial Intelligence

Attention Economy

Audio Advertising

Brand Safety

Carbon Emissions

Contextual Advertising

Cookie Deprecation

Digital Out-Of-Home

Disinformation

Diversity & Inclusion

Gaming / Metaverse

Hate Speech

Influencer Marketing

Investment Rounds

Lawsuits

Layoffs

Leadership Transitions

Made For Advertising

Marketing Effectiveness

Measurement

Media Spend

News Publishing

Pitches

Political Ads

Privacy

Recession

Responsible Media

Retail Media

Streaming Wars

Supply Chain

User Identifiers

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Companies

4A's

ANA

Adalytics

Adform

Alphabet

Amazon

Apple

Comcast

Comscore

Comvergence

Criteo

Dentsu

Disney

DoubleVerify

Ebiquity

Fox Corp

Havas

ISBA

Integral Ad Science

Interpublic Group

Jounce Media

Kantar

Kroger

Liveramp

Magnite

MediaMath

Meta

Microsoft

Netflix

News Corp

Nielsen

Omnicom Media Group

Outbrain

Paramount

Pinterest

PubMatic

Publicis Groupe

Reddit

Roblox

Roku

S4 Capital

Scope3

Snap

Spotify

Taboola

Teads

The Trade Desk

TikTok

Twitter (X)

WARC

WFA

WPP (GroupM)

Walmart

Warner Bros Disc.

Yahoo

eMarketer

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Grace Kao Promoted to CMO of Snap, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 16, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Snap has promoted Grace Kao to chief marketing officer after less than six months as VP of consumer and business marketing. She replaces Colleen DeCourcy, who will remain as an advisor before leaving later this year.

Kao brings experience from Spotify, Instagram, Yahoo, and top ad agencies, and led Spotify’s Cannes-winning Spreadbeats campaign. CEO Evan Spiegel praised her early impact at Snap.

The CMO role has been vacant since April 2023. DeCourcy, who joined from Wieden+Kennedy, led brand campaigns repositioning Snap as a healthier social alternative. Snap saw 16% revenue growth in 2024 and now has over 850 million monthly users.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Havas Media Network Elevates Jon Waite to Global Head of Planning

General

Apr 16, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Havas Media Network has promoted Jon Waite to Global EVP, Planning. In this newly created role, Waite will lead the network’s planning discipline, uniting strategic intelligence with activation to create media experiences across the full customer journey. He will collaborate across Havas’ commerce, activation and data units, and continue to develop attention-based planning tools and research.

Waite previously spearheaded a global partnership with Lumen Research and led the integration of attention data into Havas’ planning platform.

He will now focus on enhancing media effectiveness and client growth through evidence-based research and cross-functional collaboration across the Havas ecosystem.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Publicis Group CEO says advertisers are pacing, not panicking, reports Digiday

General

Apr 16, 2025

Publicis Groupe CEO Arthur Sadoun described advertiser sentiment as “cautious but competitive” amid global uncertainty fuelled by tariffs and economic volatility. Marketers are holding back larger investments but continue spending to defend market share, driving tighter timelines and performance focus.

Publicis reported 4.9% revenue growth last quarter, buoyed by strong new business wins like Coca-Cola. Digital transformation spending has slowed, but Sadoun expects recovery as AI reshapes business models. M&A remains selective, with recent investment in Lotame.

Despite macro pressures, marketers are still exploring agency partnerships, often via smaller trial engagements rather than full reviews, reflecting a shift in procurement strategy.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Grok gains a canvas-like tool for creating docs and apps, reports TechCrunch

General

Apr 15, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Elon Musk’s AI company xAI has launched Grok Studio, a new feature for its Grok chatbot that enables users to create and edit documents, code, reports and simple apps in a dedicated workspace.

Available to all users on Grok.com, the tool allows real-time collaboration in a side window. Grok Studio supports languages such as Python, C++ and JavaScript and includes HTML preview functionality.

The update also adds integration with Google Drive, allowing users to attach and work with files like documents, spreadsheets and slides, enhancing Grok’s usefulness for writing and coding tasks.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Mark Zuckerberg admits he considered spinning off Instagram in 2018, reports FT

General

Apr 15, 2025

Mark Zuckerberg acknowledged in a 2018 email that Meta might one day be forced to spin off Instagram and WhatsApp due to growing calls to break up Big Tech. The email, presented in a US antitrust trial, revealed internal discussions about whether separating Instagram could address operational challenges and reduce competition concerns.

The Federal Trade Commission argues Meta's acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp were anti-competitive and is seeking to unwind the deals.

Zuckerberg told the court the company had been struggling to balance priorities across platforms. He noted that, historically, companies often perform better after break-ups, though he wasn’t proposing action at the time.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

OpenAI names members to its nonprofit commission, reports Reuters

General

Apr 15, 2025

Leadership Transitions

OpenAI has formed a nonprofit commission to guide its philanthropic initiatives, following a corporate restructure aimed at balancing business growth with its founding mission. The Microsoft-backed company appointed Daniel Zingale as convener, with advisors including Dolores Huerta and Monica Lozano. The commission will engage with communities to inform OpenAI’s giving strategy and report to the board within 90 days.

This move comes amid legal tensions with Elon Musk, who accuses OpenAI of prioritising profit over public benefit. OpenAI has countersued, alleging harassment.

The company is also seeking up to $40 billion in new funding, potentially valuing it at $300 billion.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

The FTC wanted $30 billion to drop its case. Zuckerberg offered much less and hoped Trump would back him up, reports WSJ

M&A

Apr 15, 2025

Mark Zuckerberg offered $450 million to settle Meta’s antitrust case with the FTC, far below the agency’s $30 billion demand. The case centres on Meta’s acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp, which the FTC argues were aimed at neutralising competition.

As the trial began, Zuckerberg testified over two days, defending the purchases. Despite lobbying efforts and growing ties with President Trump, the FTC rejected settlement offers, with Chair Andrew Ferguson backing the trial.

The case highlights ongoing scrutiny of Meta’s market power and political influence, especially concerning the 2020 election and the company’s broader role in digital competition and content moderation.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

OpenAP Unveils New Technology to Help Determine Streaming Video Identity Data, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 15, 2025

OpenAP, co-owned by Fox, NBCUniversal, Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery, has launched Open Identity, a cross-publisher tool designed to streamline identity data for streaming video.

The solution allows advertisers, publishers and data providers to match audience usage data without a central identity spine, enabling consistent targeting and measurement across campaigns. Built on OpenAP’s platform, Open Identity supports multiple ID providers, improves match rates via real-time clean room ID translation, and ensures privacy compliance.

It aims to enhance transparency, interoperability and performance measurement across the premium video ecosystem, responding to advertisers’ demand for better cross-platform insights.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Temu’s US Ad Spend Craters Amid Escalating Trade War With China, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 15, 2025

Temu, the Chinese-owned ecommerce platform, has abruptly halted its U.S. digital ad campaigns, withdrawing from Google Shopping and social platforms amid rising U.S.–China trade tensions.

Its share of Google Shopping ad impressions fell from nearly 50% to 0% in early April, coinciding with President Trump’s new tariffs on Chinese goods. Temu’s sponsored TikTok content and app ranking also dropped sharply. The retreat reflects strategic adjustments to avoid rising costs and supply chain disruption.

While the exit frees up ad space, market uncertainty means few brands are rushing to fill the gap, with many reassessing budgets due to economic volatility.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

White House bars AP reporter, defying court order, reports Axios

General

Apr 15, 2025

News Publishing

The White House blocked Associated Press staff from an Oval Office press conference on Monday, defying a court order that took effect the same day.

The Trump administration, planning to appeal the ruling, requested a stay until Thursday’s appeals hearing, or a further week to allow the Solicitor General to seek relief. The court had ruled that barring journalists based on viewpoint violates the First Amendment. The AP opposes the stay, and legal experts say the government faces a high bar to overturn the decision.

The White House also plans new press room seating and to ignore emails with gender pronouns.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Google's spam policy hit by EU antitrust complaint from German media company, reports Reuters

General

Apr 15, 2025

German media firm Meraki Group has filed a complaint with EU antitrust regulators over Google’s crackdown on “parasite SEO” practices. The complaint claims Google’s site reputation abuse policy, introduced in 2023, unfairly penalises websites and harms media traffic and revenues.

Meraki joins other European publisher associations calling for regulatory action, alleging Google favours its own services and lacks transparency in policy enforcement. Publishers across several EU countries report major drops in search rankings since January.

Google defends the policy, stating it improves user experience and includes a reconsideration process for affected sites. The European Commission has yet to comment.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Zuckerberg Testifies on Emails About Instagram and WhatsApp Deals, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 15, 2025

Mark Zuckerberg testified for a second day in a US antitrust trial, defending Meta’s acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp. FTC lawyers presented internal emails from 2012 showing Zuckerberg considered the deals a way to neutralise competitors and buy time to maintain Facebook’s dominance. Zuckerberg acknowledged scale was a factor but insisted the deals also aimed to improve quality and functionality

The FTC argues Meta illegally monopolised social networking focused on friends and family, while Meta claims it faces broad competition from platforms like TikTok and YouTube.

The trial could result in Meta being forced to divest Instagram and WhatsApp.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

OpenAI is building a social network, reports The Verge

General

Apr 15, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI is developing a prototype social network with a feed focused on ChatGPT’s image generation, according to sources. CEO Sam Altman is said to be seeking external feedback, though it’s unclear if the project will be a standalone app or part of ChatGPT.

A social platform could provide OpenAI with real-time user data to improve its AI models, rivalling Elon Musk’s Grok and Meta’s upcoming AI assistant.

The move reflects OpenAI’s broader ambitions and could intensify competition with Musk and Meta. However, it remains uncertain whether the project will be publicly launched, as it is still in early development.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Japan Orders Google to Stop Forcing Phone Makers to Use its Apps, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 15, 2025

Japan’s Fair Trade Commission has ordered Google to stop abusing its market dominance by forcing local smartphone makers to prioritise its apps and services, particularly through the Google Play ecosystem. The regulator said Google required manufacturers like Sony and Sharp to promote Chrome and avoid preloading rival search engines, sometimes offering ad revenue in return. The move, Japan’s first such order against a major US tech firm, comes ahead of trade talks with the US.

It follows global regulatory scrutiny of Google’s practices, with the EU and US also pursuing cases against the company.

Google has expressed disappointment with the decision.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Barb launches overnight commercial reporting in beta, reports The Media Leader

General

Apr 14, 2025

Barb has launched a beta version of overnight commercial spot ratings, providing earlier insight into individual ad performance rather than waiting eight days for full data. This responds to long-standing industry demand for more timely and accountable TV ad reporting.

Developed with Clearcast and Ad Signal, the system matches aired commercials with Clearcast’s ad library to deliver interim overnight reports via Barb’s API.

While still in beta, the move is seen as a significant step towards modernising TV trading systems, enabling agencies and advertisers to assess campaign impact more quickly and accurately. Further refinements are expected based on user feedback.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Expanded programmatic capabilities at Sky Media will democratise live sport, reports The Media Leader

General

Apr 14, 2025

Sky Media has launched a private marketplace (PMP) with The Trade Desk, offering programmatic access to streamed linear and on-demand TV, including live sports like football. This allows advertisers to bid in real time for premium slots across platforms such as Sky Go, Now, Discovery+ and TNT Sports.

Geo-targeting and automated buying lower entry costs, opening opportunities for smaller or local brands. Frequency capping and brand safety controls are in place.

The move aims to democratise live sport advertising, making premium content more accessible while ensuring reach, flexibility and emotional audience engagement in a fragmented media landscape.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Apple rebrands Search Ads business as Apple Ads, reports 9to5 Mac

General

Apr 14, 2025

Apple has rebranded its advertising business from ‘Search Ads’ to ‘Apple Ads’ to better reflect its broader offering beyond search results. Originally limited to promoting apps via App Store search, Apple now offers ad placements in the Today tab, Search tab, and on app product pages.

The new name aligns with the company’s growing advertising scope and may signal further expansion, such as ads in Apple Maps. Apple stated the name change reflects the evolution from a single search placement in 2016 to a wider ad network.

The update was announced to developers participating in the platform.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Netflix Aims to Join the $1 Trillion Club, reports WSJ

General

Apr 14, 2025

Netflix aims to double its revenue to $78 billion and reach a $1 trillion market capitalisation by 2030. At a recent internal meeting, executives shared goals including tripling operating income and reaching $9 billion in global ad sales.

The company, currently valued at nearly $400 billion, plans to grow its 301 million subscriber base to 410 million by focusing on international markets like India and Brazil. Netflix’s ad-supported tier is gaining traction, now making up 43% of U.S. sign-ups.

Despite potential economic risks from U.S. tariffs, executives believe streaming demand could remain strong during downturns.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Meta to start training its AI models on public content in the EU, reports TechCrunch

General

Apr 14, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Meta will begin training its AI models on public content from Facebook and Instagram users in the EU, following a regulatory pause due to GDPR concerns.

The decision comes after engagement with the Irish Data Protection Commission and a favourable opinion from the European Data Protection Board. Training will include public posts and interactions with Meta AI, excluding private messages and data from users under 18. Users will be notified and can opt out. Meta argues the data is essential to build AI tailored to European users.

The DPC continues to investigate how AI models are trained, including Elon Musk’s xAI.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

OpenAI launches new GPT-4.1 models with improved coding, long context comprehension, reports Reuters

General

Apr 14, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI has launched its new GPT-4.1 model, along with GPT-4.1 mini and nano, boasting significant improvements in coding, instruction following, and long-context comprehension.

Available via API only, these models outperform GPT-4o and GPT-4.5, supporting up to 1 million tokens and updated with knowledge up to June 2024. GPT-4.1 shows a 21% coding improvement over GPT-4o and operates at a lower cost than GPT-4.5. OpenAI will retire the GPT-4.5 preview in July.

CEO Sam Altman said the focus was on real-world utility, with developers responding positively to the models’ enhanced capabilities for powering AI agents.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Zuckerberg Revisits Instagram Buy in FTC Meta Monopoly Case, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 14, 2025

Mark Zuckerberg testified in federal court as part of the US Federal Trade Commission’s antitrust trial seeking to unwind Meta’s acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp. The FTC argues Meta bought these companies to eliminate competition, citing internal emails in which Zuckerberg expressed concern about rivals’ mobile growth.

The trial, expected to last two months, could result in Meta being forced to divest both platforms. Meta contends it competes broadly with companies like TikTok and YouTube.

The FTC claims these were “killer acquisitions” that harmed competition, while Meta argues the deals were lawful and previously approved by regulators.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Apple to Analyze User Data on Devices to Bolster AI Technology, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 14, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Apple will begin using on-device analysis of user data to enhance its AI platform while maintaining privacy. The system compares synthetic data with real emails stored locally to refine AI features like summaries and Writing Tools. No personal data is collected or sent to Apple. The update, part of iOS, iPadOS 18.5 and macOS 15.5 betas, aims to close the gap with AI leaders like OpenAI and Google.

Apple will continue to use differential privacy and only apply these improvements for users who opt in.

The move follows internal restructuring in Apple’s AI team amid ongoing efforts to advance Siri and Apple Intelligence.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Google is using the cloud to pitch creative AI tools, reports Digiday

General

Apr 14, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

At Google Cloud Next, Google unveiled a suite of generative AI tools—Veo 2 for video, Imagen 3 for images, Lyria for music, and Chirp 3 for voice—to support creative content production. Brands like L’Oréal and Kraft Heinz are using them to scale output and cut production time. Agencies including GS&P and WPP are integrating these tools into creative workflows.

Google aims to move beyond ad distribution to influence content creation itself.

However, analysts noted the company missed the chance to address industry concerns around creator compensation and synthetic media transparency during the event’s keynote.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Meta resorted to buy-or-bury scheme with Instagram and WhatsApp deals, former FTC Chair Lina Khan says, reports CNBC

General

Apr 14, 2025

Former FTC Chair Lina Khan claimed Facebook panicked during the rise of smartphones, acquiring Instagram and WhatsApp in a "buy-or-bury" strategy to neutralise competition. The FTC’s antitrust case, which begins trial this week, accuses Meta of monopolising the social networking market through these purchases. Meta denies the allegations, asserting it holds no monopoly.

Khan argued that these deals reshaped the social networking landscape and highlighted the importance of free and fair trade. A court ruling could potentially force Meta to divest the platforms.

Khan noted there’s still a chance of settlement before the trial ends but emphasised the case’s ongoing uncertainty.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Netflix Tests New AI Search Engine to Recommend Shows, Movies, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 12, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Netflix is trialling an AI-powered search tool that allows users to find content using specific queries, including by mood. Currently available to select iOS users in Australia and New Zealand, the feature will soon expand to more markets, including the US. Powered by OpenAI, the tool goes beyond traditional searches by genre or actor.

Netflix has long used AI for recommendations and is exploring further applications in production and internal processes. Co-CEO Ted Sarandos said AI will enhance, not replace, creative roles.

Unlike usual feature rollouts, this tool requires users to opt in to participate in the test.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Meta adds Dina Powell McCormick, Patrick Collison to board, reports Axios

General

Apr 11, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Meta has appointed Dina Powell McCormick, a former senior Republican official and banking executive, and Patrick Collison, CEO of Stripe, to its board, effective 15 April. The move is part of Meta’s strategy to expand its board with global business experts and build stronger ties with the Trump administration.

Powell McCormick brings experience from Goldman Sachs and roles under both Trump and Bush. Collison co-founded Stripe and previously advised Meta.

Their appointments align with Meta’s focus on supporting small businesses and preparing for upcoming challenges, including an antitrust trial. The company is also signalling political alignment ahead of the U.S. election.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Ex-OpenAI Staff Oppose Startup Overhaul in Musk Legal Fight, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 11, 2025

A group of twelve former OpenAI employees is opposing the company’s proposed restructuring into a for-profit entity, arguing it undermines its nonprofit mission. Represented by Harvard professor Lawrence Lessig, they support maintaining the nonprofit’s controlling stake. Elon Musk, who co-founded OpenAI and now runs rival firm xAI, has also legally challenged the overhaul, claiming it betrays the organisation’s founding principles.

OpenAI argues the new structure—becoming a public benefit corporation—will still serve the public good while attracting funding.

A trial is set for March, and OpenAI has filed a countersuit accusing Musk of deliberately attempting to damage the company’s reputation.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Ireland’s Privacy Watchdog Probes Musk’s Grok AI Model, reports WSJ

General

Apr 11, 2025

Ireland’s Data Protection Commission has launched an investigation into Elon Musk’s Grok AI chatbot, developed by xAI, over concerns it may have breached EU data protection laws. The probe focuses on whether Grok was unlawfully trained using personal data from European users on Musk’s X platform.

This follows an earlier agreement by X to halt the use of EU citizens’ data for AI training. The inquiry adds to existing tensions between Musk and European regulators, particularly over the Digital Services Act.

Last month, xAI acquired X in a deal valuing the companies at $80 billion and $33 billion respectively.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

TikTok Lays Off Staff in Its US-Based Ecommerce Unit, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 11, 2025

TikTok has laid off staff from its U.S.-based ecommerce global governance and experience team, which oversees seller compliance and product listings in TikTok Shop. The exact number of layoffs is unclear, but the move follows internal criticism of the team’s performance and low annual review scores for some employees.

It comes amid wider restructuring and senior executive departures.

TikTok also faces growing pressure in the U.S., with no buyer yet found for its American operations. This, along with parent company ByteDance’s entanglement in U.S.-China tariff tensions, adds further uncertainty to TikTok’s future in the market.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

TikTok Drives ByteDance’s 29% Growth While China Business Slows, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 11, 2025

ByteDance’s revenue rose 29% to $155 billion in 2024, driven by TikTok’s rapid international growth, which saw a 63% increase in overseas sales to $39 billion. Net profit reached around $33 billion. However, overall growth slowed compared to 2023.

While TikTok’s expansion offset weaker performance in China, its future remains uncertain amid U.S. pressure to divest. Amazon and AppLovin have expressed interest in acquiring TikTok’s U.S. operations. Rising trade tensions could hinder a deal and impact TikTok’s e-commerce.

ByteDance is also investing in generative AI, with its chatbot Doubao gaining popularity. The company is valued at over $400 billion by some investors.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Google lays off hundreds of employees in Android, Pixel group, The Information reports, reports Reuters

General

Apr 11, 2025

Google has laid off hundreds of employees from its platforms and devices unit, which includes teams working on Android, Pixel phones and the Chrome browser, according to The Information. The cuts follow voluntary buyout offers made in January. A Google spokesperson said the move is part of efforts to streamline operations after merging the Platforms and Devices teams last year.

This follows previous job reductions, including cuts in Google’s cloud division and the announcement in January 2023 to eliminate 12,000 roles globally.

Google has not yet responded to Reuters’ request for comment on the latest layoffs.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

OpenAI slashes AI model safety testing time, reports FT

General

Apr 11, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI has significantly reduced the time and resources spent on safety testing its AI models, raising concerns about public risk. While earlier models like GPT-4 underwent months of testing, upcoming models such as o3 are reportedly given only days.

Insiders blame competitive pressures, with OpenAI racing rivals to release more powerful models. Critics argue that some dangerous capabilities may go undetected and claim OpenAI is not fulfilling earlier commitments to test for misuse risks.

Although OpenAI defends its streamlined evaluation methods, experts warn that testing near-final rather than final versions could compromise safety and transparency.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Google officially rolls out links in AI Overviews to its own search results, reports Search Engine Land

General

Apr 10, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google has officially launched a feature in AI Overviews that links certain terms to new Google Search results, aiming to help users explore topics more easily. These underlined terms redirect users to further searches, while smaller link icons still direct to third-party websites. Google claims this improves the search experience by reducing the need for users to enter separate queries.

The feature is currently live in English in the U.S. for desktop and mobile.

However, publishers are concerned this will divert more traffic back to Google itself rather than external sites, potentially impacting their visibility and referral traffic.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Google Performance Max gets new customer goals and image controls, reports Search Engine Land

General

Apr 10, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google Ads has introduced customer lifecycle features in Performance Max, enabling advertisers to bid more strategically for lapsed customers and better track acquisition costs. New retention goals allow prioritisation of high-value former users, while acquisition modes now show customer acquisition cost in campaign reports.

Performance Max also gains enhanced image tools, including automatic sourcing of images from landing pages and smart cropping for more ad variations. Future updates will include uncropping and animations.

These changes aim to improve reporting, creative control, and customer value focus, supporting advertisers' shift towards lifetime value rather than solely acquisition.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Media Orgs Urge Judge To Block Trump Order Targeting Law Firm, reports MediaPost

General

Apr 10, 2025

Over 60 media organisations and advocacy groups have urged a U.S. judge to permanently strike down Donald Trump’s executive order targeting law firm Perkins Coie, which represented Hillary Clinton’s 2016 campaign and supported voting rights cases. They argue the order, which cancels federal contracts and restricts access to government buildings, could deter law firms from representing media clients in disputes with the government.

Legal experts and 350 law professors also oppose the order, warning it undermines the rule of law and threatens press freedom.

Judge Beryl Howell previously issued a temporary restraining order, and a permanent decision is now being sought.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Judge Rejects Deal To Pause X Corp.-Twitch Battle Until Next Year, reports MediaPost

General

Apr 10, 2025

A U.S. judge has rejected X Corp.’s request to pause its lawsuit against Twitch until January 2026, stating it would be inefficient to keep the case open for nine months after a reported settlement.

The proposed deal, whose terms were undisclosed, would have allowed Twitch until year-end to meet conditions before X either dropped the case or filed a status update. Judge Jane Boyle granted a 45-day pause instead, urging finalisation of terms.

The lawsuit, filed by Elon Musk’s X Corp., alleges that Twitch and others contributed to an advertiser boycott orchestrated by GARM, resulting in significant revenue losses for the platform.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

OpenAI Says Musk’s Relentless Campaign to Hurt It Must Stop, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 10, 2025

OpenAI has accused Elon Musk of conducting a year-long campaign to undermine the company through legal claims, media attacks and a false takeover bid, aiming to benefit his rival AI firm, xAI.

In a 100-page court filing, OpenAI urged a federal court to halt Musk’s actions, citing reputational and financial damage, and is seeking a jury trial. Musk’s original lawsuit alleges OpenAI strayed from its charitable roots by partnering with Microsoft.

A trial is scheduled for March 2025, setting up a major legal battle between Musk and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman over the company’s transformation into a for-profit entity.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Trump says TikTok deal is still on the table, reports Reuters

M&A

Apr 10, 2025

President Trump stated a deal to spin off TikTok’s U.S. assets remains possible, despite legal and political hurdles.

The proposed plan would create a U.S.-based entity, majority-owned by American investors, reducing Chinese ownership. Trump has extended the divestment deadline to 19 June, after twice delaying enforcement of a ban.

Some Senators argue he lacks legal authority to grant extensions and warn any deal must sever ties with China. Chinese government approval remains a key obstacle. Meanwhile, ongoing U.S.–China trade tensions complicate progress, and the Justice Department has paused enforcement, allowing TikTok to remain available via Apple and Google app stores.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Amazon CEO Says Generative AI Will Reinvent Every Customer Experience, reports WSJ

General

Apr 10, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Amazon CEO Andy Jassy highlighted generative AI as central to the company’s future, with over 1,000 AI projects set to transform customer experiences across shopping, media, healthcare, and more.

In his annual shareholder letter, Jassy stressed that companies not embracing AI risk falling behind. He also discussed the impact of tariffs, noting that Amazon pre-emptively bought inventory and renegotiated supplier terms. While AI remains costly, Jassy expects prices to fall with advancements in Amazon’s own chip technology.

He emphasised in-person collaboration for innovation, requiring 350,000 corporate staff to return to offices full-time from January to accelerate progress.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

EU could tax Big Tech if Trump trade talks fail, says von der Leyen, reports FT

General

Apr 10, 2025

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has warned that if negotiations with the US fail during President Trump’s 90-day tariff pause, the EU may impose retaliatory measures, including levies on US digital advertising revenues. These could target tech firms like Meta and Google.

The EU is also considering tariffs on services and scrap metal exports, and has paused planned retaliation against US steel and aluminium tariffs. Von der Leyen ruled out negotiating on VAT or digital market regulations, citing sovereignty.

She stressed the need for WTO reform and expressed concern over Chinese goods redirected to Europe due to US tariffs.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Google's Vulnerability In Search Is Growing, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 10, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google’s global search market share dropped below 90% in late 2024 for the first time since 2015, a trend continuing into 2025, indicating growing competition and shifting user behaviour. Rivals like Bing, Perplexity, and ChatGPT Search are gaining traction, especially among younger users.

Google’s AI Overviews tool has drawn concern from publishers over reduced traffic, though early impact appears minimal. Despite handling five trillion annual searches, Google faces regulatory pressure and a monopoly lawsuit. Unlike newer AI-native search engines offering revenue-sharing to publishers, Google has yet to follow suit.

Analysts say Google is at a pivotal moment as market dynamics shift.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Two Lawsuits Allege The Trade Desk Secretly Violates Consumer Privacy Laws, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 10, 2025

Two class action lawsuits allege The Trade Desk violated U.S. and California privacy laws by secretly tracking users and monetising personal data without consent.

Filed in March 2025, the suits target its Unified ID 2.0 and Adsrvr Pixel technologies, which allegedly collect identifiable data to build user profiles for real-time bidding. Plaintiffs argue this circumvents privacy protections and exposes data to third parties. Legal experts say the claims raise serious issues, with courts likely to scrutinise the tracking methods.

The Trade Desk, already under pressure due to weak revenues and dissatisfaction with its Kokai platform, has not commented on the allegations.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Lumen research appoints matt bennathan as chief commercial officer

General

Apr 10, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Lumen Research has appointed Matt Bennathan as Chief Commercial Officer, bringing over 25 years of martech and adtech experience. Bennathan joins from Zeotap Data and has previously held senior roles at eXelate, Nielsen Marketing Cloud and Oracle Data Cloud. He will oversee global partnerships, platforms, publishers and buy-side relationships, driving commercial growth as advertisers increasingly invest in attention metrics.

Lumen’s data helps brands optimise media and creative strategies by measuring consumer attention.

CEO Mike Follett welcomed Bennathan’s appointment, praising his industry expertise and alignment with Lumen’s values as the company targets further success in 2025.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

BeReal Is Selling Ads in the U.S., Cashing In on TikTok Uncertainty, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 10, 2025

BeReal is launching its ad business in the U.S. following successful ad rollouts in Europe and Japan. Acquired by Voodoo for €500 million, the app claims 40 million monthly users globally, with 5 million in the U.S.

Former TikTok executive Ben Moore is leading the U.S. effort, positioning BeReal as a safer, more authentic alternative to polished platforms like TikTok. Brands such as Nike and Netflix have already tested ads. BeReal offers in-feed ads and homepage takeovers, with plans to introduce performance-focused formats and a self-serve platform.

The move comes amid uncertainty surrounding TikTok’s future in the U.S. advertising landscape.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Publishers watch warily as tariffs loom over ad budgets and print costs, reports Digiday

General

Apr 10, 2025

Publishers are closely monitoring the potential impact of President Trump’s tariffs, which include a 124% hike on Chinese goods and proposed levies on Canadian newsprint. While few have adjusted forecasts, many expect reduced ad revenue, especially from luxury brands and fashion.

Smaller U.S. newspapers face rising print costs and possible closures, risking more “news deserts.” Publishers cite increased direct ad buying and stronger subscriber engagement.

Meanwhile, national and local media outlets brace for long-term challenges, with industry bodies urging government reconsideration and helping publishers strategise to offset higher costs and navigate macroeconomic uncertainty driven by shifting trade and tariff policies.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Potential buyers are probing Yahoo’s ad tech assets, reports Digiday

M&A

Apr 10, 2025

Yahoo has held early talks with investment banks and potential buyers about selling its demand-side platform (DSP), following inbound interest. Owned by Apollo Global since 2021, Yahoo has already scaled back its ad tech assets and formed a partnership with Taboola. While a formal sale process is not underway, speculation around divestment has grown in 2025.

The DSP is seen as a strong independent platform, appealing to buyers seeking alternatives to Big Tech. However, concerns remain about profitability without Yahoo’s data assets.

Market uncertainty, particularly around tariffs and regulation, may affect merger activity in the near term.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Uber Is Working With Rival Instacart To Sell Ads, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 9, 2025

Uber has partnered with rival Instacart to let its Carrot Ads platform sell ads on Uber Eats in the U.S., replacing previous partner Criteo.

The deal allows consumer-packaged goods brands to buy Sponsored Items and shoppable display ads across both platforms. It aims to offer advertisers broader reach and better product discoverability.

This collaboration reflects growing consolidation in retail media, as brands seek scale across platforms. Instacart continues to compete with firms like Epsilon and Koddi, while Uber retains Criteo in non-U.S. markets. Analysts see the move as signalling a broader trend of tie-ups in the retail media space.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Meta rolling out new feature to find your X friends on Threads, reports 9to5 Mac

General

Apr 9, 2025

Meta is introducing a new Threads feature that helps users switch from X by allowing them to follow the same popular creators. Currently in beta, the tool requires users to request and download their data archive from X, locate the “following.js” file, and upload it to Threads.net.

While the process is not seamless due to X’s API restrictions, it addresses a common frustration of rebuilding social networks across platforms. The feature is not yet widely available, but users can check Threads on the web for access.

Meta’s move aims to ease migration amid ongoing fragmentation in the social media landscape.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Reddit’s conversational AI search tool leverages Google Gemini, reports TechCrunch

General

Apr 9, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Reddit has upgraded its AI search tool, Reddit Answers, by integrating Google’s Gemini via the Vertex AI platform. This enhancement aims to improve search relevance and deliver quicker, curated responses from user-generated content.

Initially launched in beta in December 2024, Reddit Answers helps users find summarised advice from posts without leaving the platform. The update strengthens Reddit’s position against AI firms using its data, such as OpenAI.

User responses have been mixed, with some praising its utility and others criticising it as a less effective alternative to X’s Grok AI. The feature is currently available in English in the U.S.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Walmart Confident About Tariff Resilience Despite Sales Volatility, reports WSJ

General

Apr 9, 2025

Walmart remains confident in its strategy despite economic uncertainty and volatility, CEO Doug McMillon told investors. CFO John David Rainey noted fluctuating consumer sentiment has increased sales unpredictability, affecting short-term income forecasts.

While maintaining its 3–4% sales growth guidance, Walmart highlighted a wider range of potential Q1 income outcomes due to tariffs, product mix, and other costs. The retailer sources most goods domestically but is assessing tariff impacts, particularly on Chinese and Mexican imports.

Notably, Walmart’s e-commerce arm is profitable this quarter and expected to remain so annually, having driven half of its sales growth over the past five years.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Formula One’s TV Rights Are Up for Grabs, but Media Companies Aren’t Racing to Bid, reports WSJ

General

Apr 9, 2025

Formula One (F1) is seeking a new U.S. rights deal worth $150 million to $180 million annually, but faces challenges as media companies struggle with rising costs and changing consumer habits.

Despite growing U.S. viewership, streaming services and networks like ESPN, Netflix, and Amazon are hesitant to meet F1’s asking price. While F1’s global popularity continues to rise, particularly through Netflix's "Drive to Survive," the sport’s live races aren’t drawing significant U.S. audiences.

The upcoming deal will play a crucial role in determining F1's future in the U.S. amid increasing competition from other major sports leagues.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Samsung Ads and Magnite Expand Partnership to Better Target Streaming Ads, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 9, 2025

Magnite has expanded its partnership with Samsung Ads to enhance targeted advertising in streaming through its Magnite Access platform. The tool enables Samsung Ads to manage audience data more efficiently, improving campaign speed and performance.

The collaboration has already delivered double-digit revenue growth for Samsung Ads, which now has the largest single source of TV data in the U.S.

With new capabilities like real-time audience discovery and campaign activation, the renewed deal also supports Samsung’s international expansion of its FAST and AVOD service, Samsung TV Plus, now active in Southeast Asia, with Magnite providing programmatic access in the region.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Europe unveils plan to become AI continent with simpler rules, more infrastructure, reports CNBC

General

Apr 9, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

The European Union has unveiled its “AI Continent Action Plan” to boost competitiveness in artificial intelligence and address criticisms that its regulations hinder innovation. The plan includes building AI factories, improving access to training data for startups, and launching an AI Act Service Desk to help firms navigate new regulations.

While aiming to transform Europe’s industry and talent into AI leaders, the plan follows complaints from tech firms that the AI Act is restrictive.

Both the U.S. and some European countries have urged a more innovation-friendly approach, fearing Europe could fall behind in the global AI race.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Meta Whistleblower to Tell Congress That Company Aided China in AI Race, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 9, 2025

Former Meta executive Sarah Wynn-Williams is set to testify before the US Senate, alleging that Meta endangered national security by aiding China’s AI development. In prepared remarks, she claims Meta briefed the Chinese Communist Party on emerging technologies from 2015 to help China surpass US firms.

Meta denies the allegations, calling them false and unsubstantiated.

Although Meta never launched services in China, Wynn-Williams points to ongoing advertising revenue from Chinese clients. Her memoir, Careless People, prompted bipartisan scrutiny and an investigation led by Senator Josh Hawley into Meta’s alleged ties to China and its provision of AI tools for surveillance.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

China says any TikTok deal has to comply with Chinese law, reports Reuters

M&A

Apr 9, 2025

China’s commerce ministry stated that specific business arrangements, including technology exports, must undergo government review, in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s 75-day extension of the TikTok sale deadline.

The ministry criticised actions that disregard market economy principles, describing them as coercive and harmful to the legitimate rights and interests of businesses.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Musk’s X reaches deal to drop Twitch from lawsuit over ad spending, reports Reuters

General

Apr 9, 2025

Elon Musk’s X has agreed to settle its legal dispute with Twitch, which it accused of conspiring with others to boycott the platform and cause ad revenue losses. X filed the antitrust lawsuit in November, targeting around a dozen companies and the World Federation of Advertisers. A memorandum of understanding states the case will be dropped if Twitch meets certain conditions by year-end.

X previously settled with Unilever, which said the platform agreed to uphold brand safety standards. Other defendants, including CVS, Pinterest and Colgate-Palmolive, remain in the case.

Ad spend on X declined significantly after Musk’s acquisition in October 2022.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Democratic US senators question Google and Microsoft's AI deals, reports Reuters

General

Apr 9, 2025

U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ron Wyden have requested details from Microsoft and Google about their cloud partnerships with AI firms OpenAI and Anthropic, expressing concern these deals may stifle competition. The senators questioned whether the arrangements grant exclusive licensing rights, involve significant payments, or could lead to acquisitions. They warned such partnerships may limit choice and raise prices for AI users. A prior FTC report highlighted concerns, including clauses restricting independent model launches by AI firms and advance notice requirements.

Microsoft and Google have yet to comment.

The inquiry reflects growing scrutiny of Big Tech’s influence in AI development.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

The Trade Desk’s Strategy for Its CTV OS Ventura: Give the Money Away, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 9, 2025

The Trade Desk is promoting its new connected TV operating system, Ventura, to smart TV manufacturers by offering it for free and allowing them to retain most ad revenue.

Aiming to disrupt a saturated market dominated by companies like Roku and Amazon, Ventura promises OEMs greater control, ongoing monetisation via ads and subscriptions, and no content conflict. The modular OS avoids taking an inventory cut, aiming to eliminate opaque advertising practices.

While it has yet to secure confirmed partners, The Trade Desk sees Ventura as a way for OEMs to boost margins and reclaim control over ad and content monetisation.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

IPG’s latest appointment confirms AI chiefs are the latest holdco must-have, reports Digiday

General

Apr 9, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Interpublic Group (IPG) has appointed tech entrepreneur Yaniv Sarig as global head of AI commerce to accelerate the integration of agentic AI into its commerce and performance media offerings.

His role, created specifically to retain him after a consultancy stint, reflects a wider trend of agency groups hiring AI chiefs to stay competitive. Sarig will lead AI-driven e-commerce initiatives and integrate Intelligence Node’s data tools across IPG’s agencies.

Agentic AI is expected to help optimise client strategies in real time. Similar moves have been made by rivals like Stagwell, highlighting the marketing industry’s increasing focus on AI innovation and automation.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Disney expands global ad tech platform, reports Axios

General

Apr 8, 2025

Disney has expanded its proprietary customer data and ad tech capabilities to Europe, enhancing its global advertising reach. The company’s audience graph and Bridge ID identity solution, already active in Latin America, will now roll out across European markets.

Advertisers can now buy ad inventory across Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+ live events through a unified platform using biddable automation. This development supports real-time ad targeting, especially for live sports.

With 157 million global monthly ad-supported users, Disney is also exploring partnerships, including automated ad deals in Latin America via Google and Magnite, to simplify ad buying across its streaming services.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

EU decisions on Apple and Meta due in coming weeks, antitrust chief says, reports Reuters

General

Apr 8, 2025

The European Commission will deliver its decision in the coming weeks on whether Apple and Meta have breached the EU's Digital Markets Act, aimed at limiting the dominance of major tech firms. The investigation, launched in March 2023, could result in modest fines for both companies.

Meta has criticised the expected rulings, accusing the Commission of targeting successful American firms while sparing Chinese and European competitors.

The developments come amid escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and EU, particularly following President Trump’s tariffs, with some EU member states pushing for stronger action against American digital services.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Senator Warner says new Trump TikTok extension may violate law, reports Reuters

M&A

Apr 8, 2025

Senator Mark Warner criticised President Trump’s decision to extend the deadline for ByteDance to divest TikTok’s U.S. assets, arguing it violates the 2024 law requiring a full separation to protect national security.

The reported deal under consideration would allow ByteDance to retain influence through equity and technological roles, which Warner says fails to meet legal requirements. The plan would spin off TikTok’s U.S. operations into a U.S.-based, majority American-owned company. Warner warned this structure does not ensure a clean break or prevent ByteDance from accessing U.S. user data.

China’s approval remains a key obstacle to finalising any agreement.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Walmart Asks Brands to Boost Ad Spend by at Least 25% Despite Sales Stagnation, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 8, 2025

Walmart is requesting brands increase their annual retail media spend by around 25%, with some brands facing demands of up to 50%.

Despite rising investments, many consumer packaged goods companies report little or no sales growth, prompting some to opt out of joint business plans (JBPs) due to rigid terms and lack of guarantees. Brands risk losing benefits like data fee discounts and reporting access if spending targets aren’t met.

Advertisers are increasingly frustrated with the inflexibility of retail media deals, particularly as economic pressure mounts and Walmart’s required spend is notably higher than other retail media networks.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Sam’s Club Selects Publicis Groupe as Integrated Agency of Record, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 8, 2025

Sam’s Club has appointed Publicis Groupe as its integrated agency of record, consolidating creative, media, social, and production duties previously split between Horizon Next and Arnold Worldwide.

The move follows a three-month review and reflects a wider industry trend toward integrated agency models. Interim CMO W. Joe DeMiero said the partnership aims to create more connected and personalised member experiences. Publicis, which already handles Walmart U.S.’ media, beat Dentsu in the final round of the pitch.

The decision follows a strong year for Sam’s Club, with 6.3% U.S. sales growth to $90.2 billion, excluding fuel.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Paramount and Experian to Partner in New Ad Data Initiative, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 8, 2025

Paramount Vantage has partnered with Experian to deliver more personalised, data-driven advertising through enhanced audience targeting. Using data from Experian’s Partner Innovation Initiative, Paramount will gain real-time insights to connect with consumers at optimal moments. The collaboration aims to improve ad performance and content relevance while maintaining a non-intrusive viewer experience.

aramount’s Travis Scoles said the partnership strengthens their ability to meet audience needs, while Experian’s Chris Feo highlighted the importance of precise, timely marketing.

The initiative is expected to set new standards in personalised video advertising by enabling more effective customer engagement across Paramount’s platforms.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Some news publishers see resurgence of Facebook referral traffic, but aren’t sure what to make of it, reports Digiday

General

Apr 8, 2025

News Publishing

Some news publishers, including Newsweek, The Hill and Salon, are reporting a resurgence in Facebook referral traffic in early 2025, driven by increased interest in political content and possible algorithm changes. Newsweek saw traffic from social platforms rise tenfold year-on-year in March, while The Hill and Salon reported significant increases in engagement and views.

However, the uptick is not industry-wide, and publishers remain cautious, citing Meta’s past unpredictability. The shift appears to be platform-driven, with little change in publisher strategies.

Despite renewed investment, concerns remain about future traffic impacts from potential changes like Facebook’s new Friends tab.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Meta Draws Congress’ Scrutiny Over Ex-Worker’s China Claims, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 7, 2025

US lawmakers are investigating claims by former Facebook employee Sarah Wynn-Williams that CEO Mark Zuckerberg misled Congress about Facebook’s attempts to enter the Chinese market. In her memoir, Wynn-Williams details the company’s mid-2010s ambitions to launch in China, which ultimately failed due to censorship.

Senator Josh Hawley is leading the probe, citing concerns about Meta’s alleged support for Chinese censorship and provision of AI tools to the Chinese Communist Party, potentially impacting dissidents abroad. Meta denies current operations in China and maintains it abandoned such efforts in 2019.

Wynn-Williams has been invited to testify before a Senate subcommittee this week.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Google’s AI Mode can now see and search with images, reports The Verge

General

Apr 7, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google has expanded its AI Mode search assistant, adding multimodal capabilities that allow it to interpret and respond to images. By combining Gemini AI with Google Lens, users can now upload or take pictures in the Google app and receive detailed responses with links. The system uses a “fan-out technique” to generate nuanced, context-aware results.

Previously limited to Google One AI Premium subscribers, AI Mode is now being rolled out to millions more users in the US via Labs.

The update marks Google’s response to competitors like ChatGPT and Perplexity by enhancing its visual and contextual understanding in search.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Google AI Search Shift Leaves Website Makers Feeling Betrayed, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 7, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Independent website owners are reporting significant declines in Google referral traffic, with some losing up to 90%, following the rollout of AI Overviews and algorithm changes.

Many say the new system, which summarises web content directly in search results, reduces user click-throughs and threatens their businesses. Publishers claim this shift favours larger brands and forums over smaller, high-quality sites, despite following Google’s content guidelines. Google denies AI Overviews are harming traffic, but publishers argue the changes sever their relationship with audiences.

Some have shut down, while others are exploring alternative platforms like YouTube to rebuild their reach and revenue.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Advertisers pull back from TikTok, boost Meta amid ban uncertainty, reports Search Engine Land

General

Apr 7, 2025

TikTok faced increased pressure in Q1 2025 as major brands reduced ad spend amid uncertainty over a potential U.S. ban. CPMs dropped significantly, with eight of the platform’s top ten advertiser categories cutting budgets compared to Q1 2024. A brief service blackout in January further dented confidence. Despite this, TikTok is projected to earn $14.8 billion in U.S. ad revenue this year.

Advertisers are shifting spend to Meta’s Facebook and Instagram, whose short-form video CPMs are rising.

While some brands remain active on TikTok, many are cautious, awaiting the outcome of acquisition talks and the looming mid-June regulatory deadline.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

TikTok Deal Stalled by China’s Objections to Tariffs, Trump Says, reports Bloomberg

M&A

Apr 7, 2025

President Trump said China’s objections to new US tariffs stalled a near-finalised deal to sell TikTok to American investors. The proposed sale, involving Oracle, Blackstone and Andreessen Horowitz, required approval from both the US and Chinese governments.

Trump claimed that if he had reduced tariffs, China would have approved the deal swiftly. Instead, his administration imposed further tariffs, prompting Chinese retaliation.

ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, is required by US law to sell the app’s US operations, but has resisted. Trump has now granted another 75-day extension to avoid a ban while negotiations continue amid rising US-China trade tensions.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

A Look Inside Aquila, The ANA’s Still-Cooking, Cross-Media Measurement Platform, reports AdExchanger

General

Apr 7, 2025

The Association of National Advertisers (ANA) is launching Aquila, a cross-channel measurement platform developed by its for-profit arm, Aquila LLC. Aimed at delivering deduplicated reach and frequency data across platforms like Google, Meta, and Amazon, Aquila uses census-level impression data and a Kantar Media panel.

Though not set to launch until 2026, the ANA is seeking marketer feedback and financial support. The platform will offer both API and UI options, focusing on functionality over features like AI.

While technically for-profit, Aquila aims to operate at break-even and serve as a standardised tool for advertisers rather than compete commercially.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Meta releases new AI model Llama 4, reports Reuters

General

Apr 5, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Meta has launched its latest large language models, Llama 4 Scout and Llama 4 Maverick, which it claims are its most advanced and best-in-class for multimodality, capable of processing text, images, audio, and video. Both models will be open source. Meta also previewed Llama 4 Behemoth, described as its most powerful model to date.

The launch follows previous delays due to concerns over performance in reasoning and maths, and in comparison with OpenAI's capabilities in voice interaction.

Meta plans to invest up to $65 billion in AI infrastructure this year to meet growing investor expectations.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Musk and OpenAI jury trial to begin in spring next year, reports Reuters

General

Apr 5, 2025

Elon Musk’s lawsuit against OpenAI will proceed to a jury trial in spring 2026, following a federal judge’s decision. Musk, who co-founded OpenAI in 2015 but later left, accuses the company and CEO Sam Altman of abandoning its non-profit mission to pursue profit.

The dispute centres on OpenAI’s shift to a for-profit model, which Musk claims contradicts its founding principles. OpenAI argues the move is essential to secure funding in the competitive AI sector.

The lawsuit follows Musk’s failed attempt to acquire OpenAI and coincides with his expansion of xAI, which recently acquired social media platform X.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Microsoft officially launches Copilot Search in Bing, reports Search Engine Land

General

Apr 4, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Microsoft has officially launched Copilot Search in Bing, combining traditional search with generative AI to streamline the user experience.

Accessible via Bing.com, related topic links, or a direct URL, the tool aims to reduce scrolling by delivering concise summaries, clear answers, and structured information. It includes cited sources, images, and videos to support further exploration.

Copilot Search integrates AI to provide a more intuitive search journey, positioning itself as Microsoft’s response to Google’s AI Mode. The feature represents a broader industry push to enhance search engines with generative AI, as companies race to develop the most effective user experience.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

TikTok appoints Thomas Wlazik GM for Europe and Israel, reports The Media Leader

General

Apr 4, 2025

Leadership Transitions

TikTok has appointed Thomas Wlazik as general manager for Europe and Israel, succeeding Stuart Flint, who stepped down after five years. Wlazik, formerly general manager for DACH and Israel, will now oversee broader European operations from Berlin.

The move comes amid leadership changes and uncertainty over TikTok’s future in the US, with parent company ByteDance facing an April 5 deadline to sell its US business or face a ban.

Despite this, TikTok is expanding its ecommerce presence, launching TikTok Shop in more European markets and continuing to promote its Smart+ AI tools to enhance brand and commerce performance on the platform.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Microsoft unveils AI assistant with memory, reports FT

General

Apr 4, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Microsoft has introduced a more personalised version of its Copilot AI assistant, which can remember user preferences and perform tasks such as booking tickets or shopping online.

Unveiled at its 50th anniversary event, the upgrade is part of Microsoft’s shift to strengthen its consumer AI offering and reduce reliance on OpenAI. The assistant will also include new features like camera-based input and a podcast generator. Consumer AI chief Mustafa Suleyman emphasised user control over the assistant’s “agentic” abilities.

Microsoft continues to invest broadly in AI, while focusing on commercial applications and distancing itself from the pursuit of artificial general intelligence milestones.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Meta antitrust case poses first big test of Trump’s new FTC, reports FT

General

Apr 4, 2025

Meta and the US Federal Trade Commission are set to face off in court on April 14, in a landmark antitrust trial that could force Meta to unwind its acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp.

The case, viewed as a major test for Trump-appointed FTC chair Andrew Ferguson, signals continued scrutiny of Big Tech. Mark Zuckerberg has reportedly lobbied President Trump in hopes of avoiding trial.

The FTC accuses Meta of stifling competition through a “buy or bury” strategy. If found guilty, Meta could face structural remedies, although such actions are complex given the age of the acquisitions. A settlement remains possible.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Walmart denies ABC News report it could join investor group to buy TikTok, reports Reuters

M&A

Apr 4, 2025

Walmart has denied reports that it is considering joining a group of investors to buy TikTok, following claims made by ABC News. ABC’s story, which suggested Walmart’s interest was sparked by Amazon’s involvement, was later removed from its website.

A Walmart spokesperson confirmed the report was incorrect. ABC News has not commented on the retraction. Walmart had previously explored a joint bid with Microsoft for TikTok in 2020.

The denial comes as President Trump extended the deadline for ByteDance to sell TikTok’s U.S. assets by 75 days to avoid a national ban on the Chinese-owned video app.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Walmart considers joining investor group to buy TikTok, ABC News reporter says, reports Reuters

M&A

Apr 4, 2025

Walmart is reportedly considering joining a group of investors to purchase the short video app TikTok, according to ABC News reporter Selina Wang in a post on X.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Meta nears release of new AI model Llama 4 this month, the Information reports, reports Reuters

General

Apr 4, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Meta is expected to release its latest AI model, Llama 4, later this month, though the launch could be delayed again due to performance concerns, particularly in reasoning, maths, and voice interaction. The model reportedly underperformed compared to OpenAI’s offerings.

Meta, under investor pressure to deliver returns, plans to spend up to $65 billion this year on AI infrastructure.

Llama 4 may incorporate methods from Chinese rival DeepSeek, including a “mixture of experts” technique. Initially, the model could launch via Meta AI before being open-sourced. Llama 3, released last year, supports multiple languages and improved coding and maths capabilities.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Media buyers look for ways to stay ahead of clients’ tariff budget pressures, reports Digiday

General

Apr 4, 2025

President Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs have unsettled marketers, prompting media agencies to reassess how they allocate budgets. While few have cut spend outright, many are shifting towards direct deals with publishers and curated ad strategies to reduce vendor fees and maximise efficiency.

This trend, already gaining traction, is being accelerated by economic uncertainty. Brands are prioritising cost-effective approaches, with an increased focus on performance and outcomes. However, most advertisers are avoiding drastic moves until the full impact of the tariffs becomes clear.

A looming recession could intensify scrutiny on marketing performance and shift spend towards lower-cost, high-return media channels.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Trump Grants 75-Day Extension to Reach TikTok Deal, reports WSJ

M&A

Apr 4, 2025

President Trump has granted a 75-day extension for investors to finalise a deal allowing TikTok to continue operating in the U.S., avoiding an imminent ban. The move follows a 2024 law requiring TikTok to be sold or shut down over national security concerns linked to its Chinese ownership.

Potential investors include Oracle, Blackstone, and Andreessen Horowitz, with Amazon and AppLovin making late bids. Trump said the deal needs more time for approvals and linked the situation to recent tensions with China over tariffs.

TikTok has been lobbying to remain in the U.S., citing its value to users and businesses.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Comcast Media360 aims to help TV break free of legacy siloes, reports The Media Leader

General

Apr 3, 2025

Comcast Technology Solutions has launched Comcast Media360, a 24/7 managed service designed to simplify video content distribution and monetisation across pay-TV, streaming, FAST, and social platforms. It unites three existing CTS products—Cloud Video Platform, MediaExpress and MediaOrigination—into a flexible, centralised solution.

Media360 streamlines legacy broadcast systems and supports global growth strategies such as D2C and ad-subsidised models. CTS says the service reduces complexity and cost while enabling unified broadcast and streaming operations.

Experts note the shift is now economically essential, allowing media companies to prioritise audience engagement and monetisation over technical backend challenges.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

E.U. Prepares Major Penalties Against Elon Musk’s X, reports NYT

General

Apr 3, 2025

Responsible Media

The European Union is preparing to fine Elon Musk’s platform X for breaching the Digital Services Act, with penalties likely including a fine and required product changes. The fine could exceed $1 billion and would be the first under the new law, which demands stricter content moderation. A broader investigation may follow, focusing on X’s handling of illegal content and disinformation.

While EU officials stress the process is separate from US trade tensions, the move could increase friction with President Trump.

X has denied wrongdoing and criticised the action as political censorship, while the EU says all firms are treated equally.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

TikTok Faces Fine Over €500 Million for EU-China Data Export, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 3, 2025

TikTok owner ByteDance is facing a fine of over €500 million from Ireland’s data protection commission for unlawfully transferring European user data to China, breaching the EU’s GDPR. The penalty, expected by month-end, would be the third largest issued under the regulation. TikTok will also be ordered to halt such data processing.

This comes amid wider scrutiny, including a US deadline to divest TikTok’s American operations. The Irish regulator previously fined TikTok €345 million over children’s data practices and continues to probe tech giants exporting EU data.

TikTok is also under EU investigation for content moderation and child safety issues.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Trump says China could get tariff relief if it approves TikTok deal, reports Reuters

M&A

Apr 3, 2025

President Donald Trump said he would consider a TikTok deal in which China approves the app’s sale in exchange for U.S. tariff relief.

He confirmed that a deal is close, with several investors involved.

TikTok faces an April 5 deadline to secure a non-Chinese buyer or face a U.S. ban.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

More brands are blending deterministic and probabilistic data for hybrid targeting approaches, reports Digiday

General

Apr 3, 2025

Cookie Deprecation

As third-party cookies disappear, advertisers are revisiting probabilistic data to balance targeting precision with broader reach. Brands like Sky are blending first-party deterministic data with probabilistic signals, such as IP addresses, using tools like Permutive’s clean room for lookalike modelling. This hybrid approach led Sky to a 121% increase in incremental sales and a 55% drop in cost-per-acquisition.

While deterministic data offers accuracy, it’s costly and hard to scale. Probabilistic data, enhanced by AI, offers more scalability.

Many agencies now advocate a combined strategy, acknowledging that effective future addressability will rely on both data types working in tandem.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Europe’s GDPR privacy law is headed for red tape bonfire within weeks, reports Politico

General

Apr 3, 2025

The European Commission plans to propose a simplification of the GDPR in the coming weeks to ease compliance for businesses, particularly SMEs.

While the core privacy protections will remain, changes may include reducing burdensome requirements like record-keeping and impact assessments. The move follows criticism that GDPR stifles innovation and economic competitiveness. However, reopening the law risks triggering intense lobbying from Big Tech and privacy groups.

The GDPR, introduced in 2018, has become a global privacy benchmark, and any overhaul must respect fundamental EU rights, making significant rollback unlikely despite industry pressure. The final proposal is expected by June 2025.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

WPP Acquires InfoSum to Enhance Data and AI Offerings, reports AdWeek

M&A

Apr 3, 2025

WPP has acquired data collaboration platform InfoSum to boost its AI and data-driven marketing capabilities. InfoSum’s privacy-safe cross-cloud technology enables integration of vast data sets from media and retail partners.

The platform will be folded into WPP’s media arm, GroupM, and integrated into WPP Open, the company’s AI operating system. The deal supports a shift from identity-based targeting to first-party data strategies amid privacy changes. InfoSum CEO Lauren Wetzel will remain in post and also serve as Chief Solutions Officer at GroupM.

WPP aims to enhance real-time audience targeting and campaign optimisation using expanded, privacy-compliant data access and AI training.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Disney identifies 4 audience types in streaming landscape, reports The Media Leader

General

Apr 2, 2025

Disney’s Generation Stream: Global Edition study has identified four key streaming audience segments: social shapers, reflective explorers, empathetic escapists and comfort connectors, each with distinct content preferences.

The research, covering 14 global markets including the UK, also revealed trends in EMEA, such as increased event streaming, binge-watching, a rise in niche content, and growing interest in visualised audio content. Notably, 76% of respondents want viewing recommendations from friends and family, highlighting a gap in current algorithmic personalisation.

Disney’s insights offer advertisers a refined lens to better connect with streaming audiences across diverse behaviours and content preferences.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Google Gemini executive Sissie Hsiao to step down, reports Reuters

General

Apr 2, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Google has replaced Sissie Hsiao, who led development of its AI chatbot Gemini (formerly Bard), with Josh Woodward, head of Google Labs. Hsiao will take a short break before returning to the company in a new role.

The move, confirmed by a spokesperson, aims to strengthen Gemini’s evolution, according to Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis. Woodward will continue leading Google Labs while overseeing Gemini.

The Gemini team was moved to DeepMind last year as part of Google’s effort to streamline its AI operations and better compete in the generative AI space. Hsiao has not commented publicly on the change.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Netflix enhances language options on TV to attract global viewers, reports Reuters

General

Apr 2, 2025

Netflix has introduced expanded language options for TV viewers, allowing them to access the full range of subtitle and dubbing languages for any title.

This update follows frequent user requests and reflects the platform’s growing international audience, with nearly one-third of viewership coming from non-English content. Popular titles like "Squid Game" and "Berlin" have benefited from wide language availability.

Netflix now offers subtitles in 33 languages and dubbing in 36, though availability varies by title. Previously limited on TV, this feature was already accessible on mobile and web platforms and aims to improve accessibility across Netflix’s global catalogue.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Antitrust Leaders Push to Shield High-Profile Cases From DOJ Cuts, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 2, 2025

The U.S. Justice Department’s antitrust division is facing internal pushback against a reorganisation plan that would close its San Francisco and Chicago offices.

Gail Slater, recently appointed by President Trump to lead the division, is working to protect critical resources and staff, fearing the closures could undermine major cases against Apple, Nvidia, and others. The proposal, part of wider cost-cutting, could shift key investigations to Washington, risking delays and lawyer departures.

Slater supports settlements in merger cases but insists they must be effective. Her priorities include consumer issues and competition in emerging tech sectors such as AI and quantum computing.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Spotify Opens the Programmatic Floodgates with Ad Exchange Launch, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 2, 2025

Spotify has announced a plan to enhance its advertising business, launching the Spotify Ad Exchange (SAX), its first programmatic ad exchange, to provide real-time access to its user base across music, video, and podcasts. This initiative is aimed at competing for video, display, and performance ad budgets.

The platform also introduced expanded creative automation tools, including generative AI for on-demand audio ads. Additionally, Spotify upgraded its self-serve Ads Manager and integrated third-party measurement tools.

These moves align with Spotify's ambition to become a full-fledged media platform following its first profitable year with significant ad revenue growth.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

DoubleVerify Strengthens AdTech Ecosystem, Makes Strategic Investment in FirstPartyCapital to Drive Industry-Wide Innovation

General

Apr 2, 2025

Investment Rounds

FirstPartyCapital, a venture capital firm focused on adtech, martech, and digital media, has secured a strategic investment from DoubleVerify, a leader in digital media measurement and analytics. This investment makes DV one of FPC’s largest backers and a key partner to its portfolio startups.

The move aligns with DV’s strategy to support early-stage, AI-driven innovation in advertising. Since 2023, DV has invested over $200 million in the sector.

FPC, founded in 2021, offers startups capital and access to a global network of senior industry figures, with a portfolio including Lumen, Evorra, Good-Loop, and others.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

AppLovin and Amazon Emerge as TikTok Bidders Ahead of Trump’s Deadline, reports WSJ

M&A

Apr 2, 2025

AppLovin has joined a growing list of U.S. companies bidding to acquire TikTok, proposing a deal backed by casino magnate Steve Wynn to address national security concerns and promote economic growth.

The Trump administration is reviewing offers ahead of an April 5 deadline to sell or ban the app, with other potential bidders including Oracle, Blackstone, Silver Lake, and Amazon. AppLovin, valued at $100 billion, has been positioned as a strong candidate due to its AI-driven ad capabilities.

China has shown willingness to negotiate, linking the deal to broader trade discussions amid escalating tariffs from the U.S. administration.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

PayPal Is Launching Its Ad Business in the UK, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 2, 2025

PayPal will begin showing ads to users in the U.K. from July 2025, marking the first international expansion of its advertising business launched in the U.S. in October 2024. The rollout will include display ads and personalised offers across its platforms, including Honey and the PayPal app. While Venmo is not available in the U.K., PayPal serves a similar peer-to-peer function.

Advertisers are drawn to PayPal’s extensive user base and cross-merchant transaction data, enabling advanced targeting and measurement.

The company plans to introduce video ads and expand offsite opportunities, positioning itself within the growing commerce media network landscape.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Despite the uncertainty, some advertisers like Coca-Cola and Comcast have increased their TikTok spend this year, reports Digiday

General

Apr 2, 2025

Despite uncertainty over TikTok’s future in the U.S., major advertisers including Walmart, Coca-Cola, and Amazon increased their spending on the platform in early 2025. Some marketers viewed the situation as an opportunity for cheaper ads due to reduced competition, with improved returns as a result.

While some agencies remained cautious, TikTok reassured marketers of its long-term U.S. presence, amid President Trump’s confidence in an upcoming resolution. However, the platform faces internal disruption, with several senior ad team departures.

Still, advertisers report consistent support, and many are adopting a more measured approach as the platform’s future becomes clearer.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.

Amazon courts media buyers with loss-leader tactics to compete with other major DSPs, reports Digiday

General

Apr 2, 2025

Amazon Ads is pushing to make its DSP the preferred choice for media buyers, targeting agencies with UI improvements, reduced tech fees, financial incentives, and access to CTV inventory. The platform is particularly courting non-endemic brands and smaller advertisers, promoting its first-party data and reach across Prime Video and Twitch.

While The Trade Desk and Google remain dominant, Amazon’s efforts—combined with broader economic scrutiny and regulatory uncertainty for rivals—are gaining traction. Two-thirds of U.S. advertisers now use Amazon’s DSP, with usage rising 18% in six months.

However, challenges remain in convincing buyers it suits upper-funnel and non-retail campaigns.

Primary Source Earnings Report

🔗

Expert Opinions

No items found.