AI agents will likely limit ad opportunities during the consumer journey's consideration stage, but they will allow for more ad opportunities in the awareness stage, our research shows.
Low-cost online marketplaces like Temu and Shein have surged in popularity across the US in recent years, and starting today, both retailers have enacted price hikes due to rising import costs As of January 2025, 44% of US adults have shopped on Temu, while 31% have purchased from Shein, according to data from Morning Consult. Competitive pricing is a key draw for consumers.
Marketers are just starting to familiarize themselves with machine-to-machine (M2M) marketing, where a brand AI agent and a consumer AI agent navigate decision-making. The next step is preparing for this AI-driven method of influencing consumers, by examining how agents “understand” their brands and work to improve those impressions.
Internet adoption in Asia-Pacific will rise from 65.8% in 2025 to 70.2% in 2030, thanks to rapidly expanding infrastructure—particularly in the Philippines, India, Indonesia, and Vietnam. But parts of the region are still lagging.
Chrome is the hottest browser no one can buy—yet: OpenAI, Yahoo, and Perplexity are lining up to bid if the DOJ forces a Google sell-off, eyeing a shortcut to AI search dominance.
Revolut reached over $1 billion in profits with strong subscription and wealth performance.
This finding could prompt life insurance products and marketing strategies.
WPP Q1 revenues decline 5% YoY: Another disappointing quarter could spell trouble ahead for the company if it doesn’t enhance its value proposition.
YouTube tests new AI features: The updates, including video carousels in search results and AI video summaries, promise innovation but require adaptation.
ByteDance restructures TikTok Shop’s US operations: The move reflects growing dissatisfaction with the unit’s performance, as well as a potential change in strategy as uncertainty threatens growth.
Walmart promises support for tariff-hit Chinese manufacturers: The retailer will help suppliers get in front of domestic shoppers as it tries to stay on Beijing’s good side.
US ecommerce sales will be hit hard by tariffs: Many online platforms’ advantages could disappear as prices rise, inventory runs dry, and delivery times slow.
The company’s acquisition spree could help accelerate growth despite an uncertain economic climate
D2C shoppers want fast delivery speed: Survey shows they are less interested in the story behind a brand and more concerned about basic operational execution.
In the wake of slowing remittance volume, the company’s financial media network can help it diversify and boost revenues
This can help the POS provider attract a wider range of customers and cross-sell other features