On today’s podcast episode, we discuss what Gen Alpha are up to on social media, where they are about to migrate to, and what advertisers need to know about these young people. Tune in to the conversation with Director of Podcasts and host Marcus Johnson, Analyst Paola Flores-Marquez, and Vice President of Research Jennifer Pearson. Listen everywhere and watch on YouTube and Spotify.
With TikTok facing potential US ban uncertainties, the platform's successful shopping integration has created both challenges and opportunities in the social commerce landscape. "TikTok really showed how social commerce can work in a new way in the US," our analyst Sky Canaves said on a recent episode of “Behind the Numbers: Reimagining Retail.”
2025 is the year marketers will get serious about the creator economy, according to our analyst Jasmine Enberg.
Non-retail commerce media channels typically mean payments, travel, and intermediaries that overlap with retail. But more nontraditional commerce media networks have been popping up from places like Mohegan’s casinos, RE/MAX’s real estate websites, and Planet Fitness’ gyms.
The fate of TikTok in the US: Legal, economic, and operational implications unfold as businesses and creators prepare for potential disruption.
Meta’s alleged use of pirated books highlights AI’s data dilemma—tech companies need massive data sets, but legal battles may force stricter content licensing rules
Three-quarters of consumers will reduce spending if tariffs lead to higher prices: Dining out, apparel, and live entertainment are the most likely candidates for cutbacks.
Despite record AI investments, Big Tech’s revenue growth isn’t keeping up. With strained infrastructure and investor pressure mounting, 2025 will determine if AI can deliver real returns
Chinese ecommerce platforms seek new paths for growth: Temu expands into South Korea amid challenges in Western markets.
47% of restaurant operators plan to add discounts, deals or value promotions this year: But McDonald’s disappointing results highlight the challenges of that strategy.
Key stat: 19% of US adults play team sports, up from 11% in 2020, according to CivicScience, signaling that people aren’t only watching sports, they’re participating as well.
NFL maintains DEI efforts as Trump rolls back policies: The league reaffirms its diversity commitment, arguing it benefits both competition and business despite shifting political winds.
Taking chances versus playing it too safe: Brands like Snickers and Nationwide have faced backlash for polarizing commercials, proving that shock value can be a double-edged sword.
Super Bowl viewership likely slipped: Taylor and Trump probably weren’t enough to top last year’s 123.7 million viewers.
Fox acquires Red Seat Ventures: As audiences shift from traditional TV, The company is expanding its digital-first media push.
A massive AI investment push and nuclear-powered infrastructure give France an edge, but supply chain constraints and strict EU rules could hamper its ability to compete with the US
Hurricane-force headwinds force Shein to slash its valuation: The retailer’s business model is under scrutiny amid mounting pressures in the US and EU.
The future of Super Bowl advertising is multi-platform: Brands are investing in second-screen engagement and digital-first campaigns to maximize impact beyond the game.
Pinterest’s AI-driven ad strategy and shopping expansion drive Q4 growth: Revenue surges 18% YoY as Gen Z engagement and ad performance improve.
A lot happens in a week, so every Friday we're going to analyze all the new data and provide you with some of the key takeaways. Welcome to the Friday 5.