On today's episode, we discuss the significance of GPT-4, calls for a pause on AI development, and what to make of ChatGPT being banned in Italy. "In Other News," we talk about whether 3D "holoportation" will catch on and why brands might need a digital avatar outside of the metaverse. Tune in to the discussion with our analysts Jacob Bourne and Gadjo Sevilla.
VC funding for creator-focused startups has plummeted in the US, even as these startups multiply. Last year, funding dropped by 51% YoY, while the number of creator-related startups increased by 550%, per The Information. This is part of a greater trend of cooling VC investment.
Secondhand shopping is soaring: We expect resale volumes will grow more than twice as fast as total US retail sales through 2026.
First-party data is growing in importance as marketers move forward without cookies. With more reliable and accurate data that’s shared between life cycle marketing and paid channels, brands can lower acquisition costs, create efficient campaigns, and build lasting, one-on-one relationships with target consumers.
From the explosion of ChatGPT to confusing economic indicators, the first quarter of 2023 has proven to be a mixed bag for retail. We break down major developments from the past few months and what they mean for the year ahead.
L’Oréal’s Aesop purchase is the company’s biggest yet: The beauty giant is spending $2.53 billion to stake a larger claim to the highly profitable luxury skincare category.
US may try to kneecap China’s quantum computing ambitions: The government is mulling semiconductor-style export controls that may be easily circumvented. Meanwhile, it could hurt domestic companies and inflame tensions.
Brands continue to engage younger customers in the metaverse: Despite recent setbacks and shifting industry focus, many are investing in creative campaigns and immersive experiences.
The publisher versus platform battle rages on: A lawsuit filed in the UK seeks billions in damages from Google for abusing its dominance of the ad market.
A double-whammy for TikTok: The embattled video app was fined for millions in the UK, and banned from Australian government devices.
The company is shedding dozens of jobs while giving employees a chance to be rehired, revealing it is far more resilient than other Big Tech companies.
Amazon shows caution on AI chatbots: It hasn’t demonstrated Microsoft’s cavalier approach on the technology but is harnessing generative AI startup power for cloud growth while it builds competing products.
Google Fiber launches its symmetrical 8 Gbps service in Arizona. It’s a top competitor on pricing and speeds for downloads and uploads. How will rivals react?
A dearth of banks willing to serve crypto startups presents opportunities for risk-tolerant fintechs and neobanks.
Acorns acquired the youth-focused bank app to enter the European market and address customers’ full financial life cycles.
They don’t think banks protect them from risks or offer valuable products and services, though most get decent customer service. Consumer Duty could change the perception.
Gen Zs are more likely to start their shopping journey on TikTok than Google: They’re also less likely to cut back on discretionary spending, despite inflation.