Trends
The Value of In-House Agencies
There are many reasons for companies to bring work in-house, from creating consistency to saving time and money. Blum Consulting, for instance, found that "to staff the same internal resources at an external agency, a brand would pay on average, 60 percent more for the same team," illustrating how in-housing can be a cost-saving measure.
2025 media and entertainment outlook
The economics of digital entertainment are being reshaped by independent creators, global social platforms, and the biggest technology companies. Studios and streamers may need to bulk up to compete.
Homeownership slips further out of reach for all California ethnic groups amid rising mortgage costs
Buying a home in California became less affordable for all ethnic groups last year, as interest rates remained elevated and the typical monthly mortgage payment for a median-priced detached home rose 6 percent compared to the previous year, the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (C.A.R.).
Inequities in HCP Training and Practices [REPORT]
Havas Health Network, the largest global health and wellness network, and Republica Havas Health, the award-winning cross-cultural healthcare and pharma marketing agency of Havas, have launched "The Hidden Divide: Examining Inequities in Healthcare Provider Training and Practices."
Lost in Translation: The Cost of Ending Federal Language Access Requirements
On March 1, 2025, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14224, officially designating English as the national language of the United States. Some might have found it surprising that the U.S. managed to make it 250 years without a designated national language, but the Founding Fathers didn’t see language as something the federal government should regulate.
Are CMOs Now Entering the Gig Economy? [PODCAST]
On Scope host Mike Berberich and show producer Ryan Dinger react to a story in ANA Magazine on the rise of fractional CMOs. The duo outlined the pros and cons of this new development and speculate on if CMOs will now be entering the gig economy.
What’s behind March’s retail sales spike? [REPORT]
Last week, the Census Bureau released a strong set of retail sales figures. Total retail sales were up 1.4% over February and 4.6% higher than March last year. Of course, this came as no surprise to NRF, as our Retail Monitor data predicted this positive result.
Asian American Audiences Are Reshaping Sports, Digital Media and Beauty Trends [REPORT]
Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) consumers are driving major shifts in digital commerce, sports engagement, and beauty trends, according to Nielsen’s latest 2025 report – Breakthrough ROI: Investing in Asian American audiences and media.
A Powerful Brand Story Doesn’t Crumble Under Pressure
We all hate feeling like we’re being sold to (younger generations more than anyone). So, why do studies show that when asked if advertising influences our own decisions, most of us say no—but when asked if advertising influences other people’s decisions, we overwhelmingly say yes?
Teens, Social Media and Mental Health [REPORT]
Most teens credit social media with feeling more connected to friends. Still, roughly 1 in 5 say social media sites hurt their mental health, and growing shares think they harm people their age
AI in Advertising: What AI Means for Advertisers Today
At the WFA’s Global Marketer Week, Ruben Schreurs, Ebiquity’s Group CEO, sat down with Adweek to discuss the growing role of AI in advertising.
We’ve commercialized connection.
We say influencer marketing has evolved from Sponsorship 1.0 to Influence 2.0 to what we now call the Community 3.0 era. But tbh, most brands have just rebranded their audience as a "community" while maintaining the same extractive consumer relationship. By Lizzy Bilasano - Head of Creative Strategy // Creative Brand Marketer. Social Culture + Creator Economy Nerd. People-First Servant Leader.
From eyeballs to eardrums.
By Gonzalo López Martí - Creative Director
- I never thought I’d say this: super productions are losing steam.
- I love explosions, car chases, and CGI as much as the next guy.
- Problem is, blockbusting, thrill-seeking, pulsating acrobatics &/or sophisticated special effects have become a tired trope.
U.S. Metro Areas Experienced Population Growth Between 2023 and 2024
The population of U.S. metro areas collectively continued to increase in 2024, growing slightly faster than the nation, according to recent U.S. Census Bureau population estimates.
How Does the ‘Fractional CMO’ Measure Up?
What do a plumbing company in Texas, a construction firm in Colorado, and HVAC and roofing companies in South Carolina have in common? All four have the same CMO or, more accurately, "fractional CMO," who reports to each firm's CEO and manages the marketing team on a part-time basis while working remotely. "I work 10 to 15 hours per client at the beginning, but once we set the strategy and things are moving, my time drops back to four or five hours a week," says Ben Finklea, founder and CEO of Volacci, which places fractional CMOs at organizations in need and who has worked with companies such as e-MDs, Fast Company, and Yeti Coolers. "I'm just there to make sure that the marketing teams are getting done what they're supposed to get done."
Internet Advertising Revenue Report: Full Year 2024 [REPORT]
Just released: IAB/PwC Internet Advertising Revenue Report: Full Year 2024. The digital advertising industry reached a record $259 billion in revenue in 2024—a 15% year-over-year increase, highlighting its ability to adapt to changing technologies and consumer behaviors.
How To Be A Creative’s Favorite Strategist
This was inspired by a conversation with Dominique Monet and others in the 4As Jr. Strategy Collective about what it really takes to be a strategist creatives trust—and want in the room. It’s a distillation of what I’ve seen work—and not work—when trying to build real partnerships.
2025 Top 50 Global Retailers
The National Retail Federation today announced the 2025 Top 50 Global Retailers. Conducted by Kantar, the list ranks the leading international retailers based on their revenue throughout 2024.
Retail Sales Grew in March But Consumers Are ‘Not Feeling Great’ as Tariffs Rise
Data released by the U.S. Census Bureau showed retail sales grew in March even though consumers continued to worry about the impact of rising tariffs.
TV or Digital: What’s winning global audiences?
The rise of digital platforms and streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, and TikTok has revolutionized content consumption by offering on-demand entertainment that fits our mobile lifestyles. While this digital surge has significantly impacted viewing habits, traditional media has proven resilient—especially broadcast television, which continues to draw substantial audiences for live sports, popular series, and local news.
