In 2025, digital advertising will be shaped by connected (CTV) consolidation, stricter data privacy measures, and AI-driven marketing. CTV growth may spark mergers, while privacy regulations push brands to rely on first-party data. AI will continue to enhance campaign performance and creativity, transforming how marketers engage audiences.

Don’t count Roku out: The CTV provider hit 90 million US households, cementing its leadership even as the sector undergoes major consolidation.

On today's podcast episode, we discuss how retailers are giving customers more bang for their buck with discounts and freebies, how gamified loyalty programs are becoming more sophisticated, and more. Listen to the conversation with our Senior Analyst Sara Lebow as she hosts Vice President Suzy Davidkhanian and Senior Analyst Blake Droesch.

Microsoft committed $3 billion to India and struck key partnerships to strengthen its AI footprint and compete in the region with Google, Amazon, and Nvidia.

PayPal is the most popular mobile payment app that US adults typically use, with over twice as many users as the next most popular choice, Venmo, according to November 2024 data from YouGov.

In 2025, retailers will redefine value by blending discounts with innovation, empathy, and personalization. Brands will prioritize authentic connections, engaging audiences through in-person experiences, and highly targeted campaigns powered by advanced technologies like AI. Let’s look at three key marketing themes industry experts believe will shape 2025.

Reddit launches AMA Ads and Pro Trends: New tools enable branded Q&As, real-time insights, and improved brand safety for advertisers.

In the last 12 months cookies got a stay of execution, TikTok did not (yet), AI exploded, and viral content cluttered our feeds. So much happened in marketing in 2024, it can be difficult to cut through the noise and take stock of what to focus on in 2025.

UK retail sales grew 3.2% YoY in December: Even with a late surge, sales rose just 0.7% YoY in 2024.

TikTok Shop plans to launch in Mexico next month: The move suggests the company is unfazed by the potential US ban.

Retailers ended 2024 on a high: Holiday ecommerce sales surged by nearly 9% YoY as steep discounts and tariff fears spurred spending.

Authenticity and purpose are key. Bold campaigns succeed when they align with brand values and feel genuine rather than opportunistic

While BNPL losses remain low, consumers may be overextending themselves, making it harder for consumers to pay off their growing credit card balances

The license was approved just days after the country’s regulated market opened, making Paysafe a first mover

Discover’s more limited global acceptance could frustrate customers, but Capital One would have the time and resources to grow acceptance

Open-source AI models democratize access to powerful robotics tools, while autonomous vehicle tech could standardize the industry and speed up development.

Pharma is forecast for positive momentum in 2025: But increases in drug approvals and product sales are no guarantee as the US transitions to a new administration.

UPS pushes into healthcare logistics: The company is renting out custom lab space near its main global air hub. Diagnostics companies will be able to consolidate their shipping operations and drive downstream cost-savings.

Withings unveils AI-enabled smart mirror at CES: But consumers’ low interest in prior smart mirror products isn't likely to change.