The Current Report (The Current)

After a judge ruled against Google in a landmark antitrust case around search, calling Google "a monopolist," we are covering the fallout. Part of that is how news publishers could be affected, which is why we're talking with Josh Brandau, CEO of AI company Nota. Nota provides AI tools to news publishers so they can be more efficient.

Brandau has deep experience across the advertising field — from being the CMO and CRO of the LA Times, to stops at ad agencies Pereira O’Dell & Essence Media Com, which partner with Google as part of Group M.

He goes into the challenges how this search ruling could open up competition and lead to more ad dollars for publishers, the challenges he faced while at the LA Times and the struggles the news industry has with adapting to technology.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

Google loses antitrust suit, as federal judge rules it monopolized search: https://www.thecurrent.com/google-antitrust-federal-judge-monopoly-search-advertising

3 details advertisers need to know about the Google search ruling: https://www.thecurrent.com/advertisers-google-search-ruling

I’m optimistic about the future of news and here’s why: https://www.thecurrent.com/opinion-news-ai-josh-brandau-co-founder-ceo-nota

How the Google Antitrust Ruling May Influence Tech Competition: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/06/technology/google-microsoft-antitrust-cases.html

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

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Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

Google is finally starting to remove third-party cookies from Chrome, a plan four years in the making. Chris Brooklier and Sarah Polli, director of marketing technology at Hearts & Science, break down how this will impact the future of digital advertising. With marketers looking for answers on how to move forward, Polli shares her wisdom, including how first-party data will only become more crucial.

Plus, Polli goes in-depth on data privacy, both from a regulatory standpoint and alternative identity solutions.

Donald Trump was once again elected as the President of the United States last week, becoming the first president since Grover Cleveland in 1892 to win back the presidency after losing a re-election bid.

One tech company is 3 for 3 in successfully predicting who would become the president in the last 3 elections. That company, Resonate, relies on consumer data and intelligence to deliver data-driven insights.

So, what’s the secret to its success? Resonate uses AI modeling to analyze 15,000 data points across 250 million profiles.

Those data points could include anything from what news sources people read to what streaming services they subscribe to or whether they’re in the market for a car.

To dive more into how Resonate made the call, the company’s CEO Bryan Gernert, chief data scientist Daniel Scantlebury and CMO Ericka McCoy joined The Current Report.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Presidential ads mark a divide as both candidates spend big in battleground states: https://bit.ly/3YJZ7z5
• Election night is Calm's 'Super Bowl,' so it's buying 30 seconds of silence on CNN and ABC: https://bit.ly/3AAzFUI
• Fans declare Calm ad 'winner of the US election': https://bit.ly/4epewuu
• The Calm app's election day TV ad blitz by the numbers: Datacenter weekly: https://bit.ly/4ekkqwN

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Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

The NFL will exclusively stream at least one game a week this season, as Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Peacock and ESPN are all streaming partners. Live sports rights in the U.S. are estimated at $30 billion in 2024, according to a report with S&P Global, with more of those rights moving to streaming. 

On The Current Report, Chris Brooklier speaks with the author of that report, Scott Robson, about why rights have gotten so expensive and why it's changing the TV landscape.

On this edition of The Current Report, we're joined by Brian Mandelbaum, CEO of Attain, to discuss how Attain is harnessing commerce data from 7 million users to help marketers fully leverage being data-driven. Plus, in news across the internet, women's elite sports are projected to generate more than $1 billion in revenue this year.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Just for conversions? Why marketers may be missing the bigger picture on retail data: https://bit.ly/3PQQ9fJ
• Retail data is entering the upfronts as measurement gets more important: https://bit.ly/3U7a1gY
• Data strategy is crucial to crushing the retail media game: https://bit.ly/43Me45G
• Advertisers are on an ‘inevitable path’ toward quality, thanks to commerce data: https://bit.ly/4cNUytC
• Women's March madness ad revenue doubled this year, Disney VP says: https://bit.ly/3vN5fvO
• Women's basketball is central to this year's March Madness ad campaigns: https://bit.ly/4aIBqLL
• Breaking the billion-dollar barrier: Women’s elite sports to generate more than $1 billion in revenue in 2024: https://bit.ly/4cL36Bp

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

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Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

On the eve of election day in the U.S, the number of news outlets reporting on the races is continuing to dissipate. A recent report from Northwestern University found 127 newspapers across America closed down in 2023, leaving nearly 55 million Americans with limited or no access to local news.

This continues the expanding trend of news deserts we’ve seen over the years, as now more than half of counties in the U.S. have one or zero local news outlets.

Still, the report finds there is some room for optimism. 81 standalone digital local news sites opened in 2023, increasing the total number of those sites to 740.

A persistent challenge for news publishers has been capturing advertisers dollars. Multiple recent studies are hoping to turn that tide, showing it’s safe and valuable to advertise alongside news coverage.

The latest success story comes up north in Canada, where Dentsu found some big time results for the effectiveness of local news.

The holding company's VP of performance and platforms, Fil Lourenco, shared those results with me during our conversation. 

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Medill report shows local news deserts expanding: https://bit.ly/48E4LYa
• Most U.S. counties have little to no local news sources: https://bit.ly/48ygFT4
• US Sports Streaming 2024. Women’s Sports and Gambling Drive Viewership Gains: https://bit.ly/48zxInP
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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

Still fresh off the news of Omnicom and IPG merging, all the agencies that work within the holding companies are plugging along. IPG’s Initiative is one of those agencies. It counts Amazon, Nike, Unilever and Nintendo among the brands it serves.

Initiative U.S. CEO Stacy DeRiso joined The Current Report at CES to talk about retail media networks' emergence at the conference, maximizing clients' dollars and the agency's approach to awareness and performance called fame and flow.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Beyond the gadgets, ad tech and AI are center stage at CES 2025: https://bit.ly/4j6Wdxz
• Comcast to launch Universal Ads in bid to win smaller advertisers over from tech: https://bit.ly/3C6CVrB
• Disney Brings New Biddable Ad Capabilities to Live Sports and Entertainment: https://bit.ly/42bcOKC

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

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Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

On this edition of The Current Report, Damian Fowler and Travis Clark explore why video games are an essential medium for brands to consider in their marketing strategy. Plus, a report in the Wall Street Journal alleges that Google violated its promised standards and Warner Bros. Discovery may add live programming from CNN to its Max streaming service later this year. 

To read the full stories included in this episode:
 

1. Tubi reaching new heights after Super Bowl ad: https://www.thecurrent.com/fast-platforms-tubi-are-streaming
2. Opportunities for advertising in the gaming space: https://www.thecurrent.com/cannes-lions-video-games-advertising-brands
3. Google accused of violating it's own standards: bit.ly/4344FEG
4. Warner Bros. Discovery may add CNN to MAX service: bloom.bg/3XxQ8zZ

On this edition of The Current Report, we ring in the holiday season early with some shopping. We explore why the holiday shopping season is starting earlier than ever with the help of retail media. Next, big, bold marketing campaigns are evolving into a new form thanks to performance marketing and personalized ads. In other news, State Farm saw huge returns by capturing a viral moment at an Eagles game, further riding the Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce momentum and 2024 political ad spending is expected to reach new heights. 

To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Retail media lights up the holiday shopping season earlier than ever: https://bit.ly/3tCuDD1
• What happened to big, bold brand campaigns: https://bit.ly/3PRXsmz
• The Astounding Results of Maximum Effort's NFL Stunt With Jake From State Farm and Taylor Swift: https://bit.ly/3ZUNUf7
• Will 2024 Election Save TV?: https://bit.ly/48KA3w9

To read the full stories included in this episode:

US Forecast Trends to Watch in 2025: https://bit.ly/4g5zsHA

The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

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Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

On this edition of The Current Report, Ilyse Liffreing and Travis Clark explore the potential of gaming on the open internet and why advertisers should be aware of walled ecosystems in the video game space. Plus, drone advertising is taking off in China as an innovative approach in a competitive market. In news across the internet, Charter, the second largest cable operation in the U.S., dropped Disney's networks after the two were unable to come to a carriage agreement, and Warner Bros. Discovery filed a securities report outlining anticipated financial losses lasting through the end of the year as the Hollywood strikes continue. 

To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Gaming ecosystems are increasingly opening up to ads: https://bit.ly/44KqaLm
• How luxury brands use drone advertising: https://bit.ly/488MnpC
• Disney streaming services and Charter: https://bit.ly/3P8OgKe
• Warner Bros. potential financial fallout: https://bit.ly/3Rc6Fs2

This week on The Current Report, we dig into the value of online grocery data and discuss how GenAI is revolutionizing podcasts, with Spotify set to offer AI-translated versions of some of its top shows. In other news, Omnicom bought Flywheel Digital, and Biden released an executive order providing rules around AI.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• 'A living, breathing pulse': As Thanksgiving approaches, online grocery data is more valuable than ever: https://bit.ly/3sjzb0V
• One year in, generative AI is quickly reshaping the world of podcasting: https://bit.ly/3MonooU
• Omnicom Buys E-Commerce Shop Flywheel Digital for $835 Million: https://bit.ly/3SqqMU7
• Biden releases AI executive order directing agencies to develop safety guidelines: https://bit.ly/3SpoHIb

The Olympics magic is back as NBCUniversal is getting record viewership and advertising revenue. This year's games in Paris is showcasing the power of Peacock and streaming overall. We break down how all the ways to watch the Olympics is extending how generations, including Gen Z, connect with the historic event.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• NBCUniversal expects record Olympics ad revenue, with 70% of advertisers being new: https://www.thecurrent.com/nbcuniversal-olympics-advertising-revenue
• NBC Bets on Social Media Influencers to Draw Gen Z to the Games: https://www.thecurrent.com/programmatic-2024-olympics-media-buyers-streaming
• Programmatic opens up possibilities for first-time Olympics advertisers: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-07-31/nbc-bets-on-social-media-influencers-to-draw-gen-z-to-the-games?srnd=homepage-americas
• 5 minutes with Instacart's Jasmine Taylor: https://www.thecurrent.com/5-minutes-with-instacart-jasmine-taylor-brand-marketing

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

On this edition of The Current Report, Damian Fowler and Zac Wang go in-depth on lessons learned five years after Europe’s sweeping General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) went into effect. Plus, Cannes Lions will kick off its International Festival of Creativity next week, and The Current will be on-the-ground all week to report on all the biggest trends from the annual advertising gala. 

To read the full stories included in this episode: 

1. What will win a Lion? Our top creative picks https://www.thecurrent.com/cannes-lion-top-creative-advertising-marketing
2. British advertising leaders on 5 lessons from 5 years of GDPR https://www.thecurrent.com/british-advertising-gdpr-ai-data-privacy
3. EU commission files antitrust complaint against Google https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-06-14/google-hit-with-eu-charge-sheet-over-ad-tech-dominance
4. Beatles to release "new" AI-assisted song https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-65881813 

On this edition of The Current Report, Dave Solomon, Ampersand's director of sports partnerships, and Chris Brooklier break down the surging popularity of women's basketball after South Carolina beat Caitlin Clark and Iowa in the national championship. Advertising demand skyrocketed as brands wanted to be a part of the moment.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• March Madness just proved the power and scale of women’s sports. Advertisers are watching. https://www.thecurrent.com/march-madness-womens-sports-advertisers-basketball
• Inside Nielsen's push to incorporate streamers' first-party data into measurement: https://adage.com/article/measurement/nielsen-wants-streaming-first-party-data-measurement/2551621
• Paris Olympics on track to hit NBC ad sales record after pandemic: https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/paris-olympics-track-hit-nbc-ad-sales-record-after-pandemic-2024-04-09/
• The ‘crème de la crème’: 2024 Paris Olympics goes programmatic on Peacock: https://www.thecurrent.com/2024-paris-olympics-programmatic-peacock-nbcuniversal
• Why are so many B2B firms sponsoring the Olympics? https://www.thecurrent.com/b2b-sponsorship-2024-olympics-marketing-live-sports
• Why streamers like Disney, NBCUniversal and Paramount are courting small businesses: https://www.thecurrent.com/streaming-disney-nbcuniversal-paramount-ctv-programmatic

On this edition of The Current Report, we explore the key points of the writers' agreement and discuss the potential impact of the double strike on advertisers. Plus, we explore takeaways from DMEXCO, Europe's leading ad conference where AI took center stage. In other news, CNN Max hub launched this week, and Spotify is testing an AI-powered tool that can translate podcasts into other languages. 

To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Hollywood after the writers' strike: https://bit.ly/3REXAIB
• New era of digital advertising takes shape at DMEXCO: https://bit.ly/46sO0fZ
• CNN Max hub launch: https://bit.ly/3LFohco
• Spotify AI-powered translation tool: https://bit.ly/3LEJ1Rw

The holiday season is fast approaching and Americans are ready to spend. Adults in the US plan to spend an average of $2,100 dollars, up 7% from last year, according to Bank of America’s holiday shopping survey. And six figure earners, those who make between $100,000 and $199,000 a year and say they’re gonna spend more, is up 17% from last year.

Here’s a number you might not recognize – small businesses make up 99% of all businesses in the U.S., consistently accounting for around 40% of America’s GDP. How should small businesses be approaching the holiday season marketing wise? Choozle CEO Adam Woods joins The Current Podcast to share how brands and agencies can leverage retail data and omnichannel to power their shopping strategies.
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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Netflix Says Ad Tier Has Surged to 70M Users, Christmas Day NFL Games Sold Out: https://bit.ly/40Urb5D
• 2024 Consumer Spending and Saving Behaviors:
• Holiday Shopping Season https://bit.ly/4exzbwt
• Shop Small: Everything You Need to Know About Small Business Saturday: https://bit.ly/3OccwLy

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

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Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

This week on The Current Report, we dive into the strategies studios are using in movie promotion as the writers' and actor's strikes continue in Hollywood. Next, how brands can achieve brand love by using behavioral data to develop campaigns that resonate on an individual level. Plus, Warner Bros. Discovery named Mark Thompson as its' next CEO and chairman of CNN and X, formerly known as Twitter, announced it will accept political advertising after a nearly four year ban.  

To read the full stories included in this episode:

• The Hollywood strikes and movie promotion: https://bit.ly/3P0JSwz
• How brands are using behavioral data to build brand affinity: https://bit.ly/3OXtDkc
• Mark Thompson named next CEO and chairman of CNN: https://bit.ly/45sC9yu
• X will reverse political advertising ban on the platform: https://bit.ly/3sIA0QA

This week on The Current Report, we examine the growing popularity of Nigerian film and contemporary West African pop music. Plus, Pumpkin Spice Latte season has arrived earlier than ever. We discuss the influence of the seasonal item as more and more retailers capitalize on the opportunity. In other news, multiple Wall Street analysts believe Amazon may introduce an ad model on Prime Video and brands associated Travis Kelce have seen a rise in attention since the NFL star started dating Taylor Swift. 

To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Afrobeats to Nollywood: The next big global trend: https://bit.ly/48E8B2W
• The secret to Starbucks' Pumpkin Spice Latte's success: https://bit.ly/3PFJlAN
• Amazon's potential next push into advertising: https://bit.ly/3LQzXcq
• Brands associated with Travis Kelce see a rise in attention: https://bit.ly/3RU5DBg

On this edition of The Current Report, Damian Fowler and Chris Brooklier break down the importance of retail data and the complexity around retail data strategy. In other news, Walmart and Peacock are teaming up to offer AI-powered shoppable ads and the NBA agreed to a one season deal with regional sports rights partner Diamond Sports.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Data strategy is crucial to crushing the retail media game: https://bit.ly/3FQhvNN
• Walmart and Peacock team up on AI-powered shoppable ads: https://bit.ly/47v38u5
• Diamond Sports reaches deal with NBA: https://bit.ly/3u93WWX

We’re just a week away from the start of the U.S. government’s antitrust trial against Google, the second one taking place this year. This one alleges that the company is illegally monopolizing the ad tech market. 

The trial comes hot on the heels of another DOJ antitrust case, whose verdict in August charged Google with monopolizing the search engine market.In the lead up to this second trial, the Department of Justice has unsealed a number of documents that offer a glimpse into how Google talked about its own products.

Jason Kint, CEO of Digital Content Next, joins The Current Report to preview the case.

The Current is owned and operated by The Trade Desk Inc.

The Current Report is a weekly round-up of what’s happening in the world of digital media. In our debut edition, we look at the recent moves by major streaming platforms to consolidate content to make it easier for consumers and advertisers. And we take the pulse of the European retail market to see how marketers are adapting to economic headwinds.

To read the full stories included in this episode: 

1. Disney+, Max, and now Paramount+: As streamers consolidate, advertisers see opportunity https://www.thecurrent.com/streamers-consolidate-advertisers-ctv-disney-max-paramount
2. European retail brands pivot messaging, lean on retail media amid inflation worries and tech upheaval https://www.thecurrent.com/european-retail-brands-media-tech
3. Reliance’s JioCinema breaks world record with free cricket streaming https://tcrn.ch/3MEGrL8
4. AI executives warn its threat to humanity rivals ‘pandemics and nuclear war https://on.ft.com/42ipQCu

It's an election year in the U.S., meaning ad dollars will be flowing in.

Past news just being a cornerstone of our society, news publishers and the IAB are making the case that advertising alongside news has positive business consequences.

This week on The Current Report, IAB CEO David Cohen dives into why that message resonates with marketers.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• The IAB NewFronts puts a spotlight on news publishers and women's sports in a critical year for both: https://bit.ly/3WpW0Nf
• Ford's Chief Futurist imagines how AI could grow the relationship between drivers and their cars: https://bit.ly/3JL5ivI
• IPG Media Brands, U.S. Ad Forecast Spring 2024: https://bit.ly/3UMFVQg
• MAGNA Raises its growth forecast for US ad market: https://bit.ly/3yfpoLS

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

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Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0w

In this edition of The Current Report, we dive into another way AI is changing our world. Michelle Castillo, a contributor to The Current, joins us to discuss her recent article on how AI has the potential to reduce the time it takes to pick a show to stream. Plus, we explore how ESPN foresees its streaming future playing out.

To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Don’t know what show to stream next? AI can help: https://bit.ly/494A4tE
• Making sense of the momentous new sports streaming bundle from Disney, Fox and Warner Bros. Discovery: https://bit.ly/3UA6lFt
• Disney harnesses AI to drive streaming and technology: https://bit.ly/4ctP8nq
• Axios What's Next Summit: https://bit.ly/4a9Cjxi

In honor of yesterday's Big Game, we're discussing recent landmarks in live sports streaming. Just last week, Disney, Fox, and Warner Brothers Discovery announced that they're combining forces to create a new sports streaming bundle, and Peacock saw huge success with the first-ever NFL playoff game to be exclusively streamed. These events could mark a change in the fragmentation of streaming sports. In other news, The Athletic's Richard Deitsch explores whether the Big Game will ever be exclusively streamed.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Making sense of the momentous new sports streaming bundle from Disney, Fox and Warner Bros. Discovery: https://www.thecurrent.com/sports-streaming-disney-fox-warner-bros-discovery  
• Making sense of the momentous new sports streaming bundle from Disney, Fox and Warner Bros. Discovery: https://bit.ly/3UA6lFt
• Super Bowl XLVI Live Stream Sets Traffic Records: https://bit.ly/49xvaGl
• New sports streaming bundle could be a 'monster' — or a dud: https://bit.ly/42wvRx2
• The ESPN-Fox-WBD sports venture is a counterstrike against Big Tech and rights fees inflation: https://bit.ly/3P0IFqf
• What Peacock's NFL playoff game and Netflix's WWE deal signal for the future of sports streaming: https://bit.ly/3SBaUwm
• Will the Super Bowl ever be behind a streaming paywall? Here's what it'd take: https://bit.ly/3SypF35
• Disney CEO Bog Iger on new streaming bundle partnership: https://bit.ly/3HQUbR1

Today on The Current Report we're joined by Luis Romero, The Guardian US' SVP of Advertising, who talks three ways the legacy brand is thriving in the digital age, the importance of a global perspective, and how the brand is driving innovation around sports and lifestyle coverage. We also cover why streaming giants are looking to sub-Saharan Africa for growth and top news Across the Internet.

To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Publishers want billions, not millions, from AI: https://bit.ly/3KhbJqN
• The Guardian US' SVP of ads on brand strategy, green ad dollars, and soccer: https://bit.ly/3OBtK64
• Global streaming giants are looking to sub-Saharan Africa as the next engine of subscriber growth: https://bit.ly/3O4ExUw
• Elon Musk’s Rebranded Twitter Cuts Ad Prices: https://bit.ly/3Y9JGj0
• The Rise and Fall of the Chief Diversity Officer: https://bit.ly/3rSUVA1

The Current's coverage of Cannes Lions continues. Today, we're joined by Winston Binch, chief brand and experience officer at Gale, who talks about his approach to brand innovation, the evolution of the festival towards tech and media, and the Chipotle Doppelgänger campaign that won GALE a gold lion. We also cover Albertsons' proposal for a retail media framework, and the verbal sparring match between Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg.

To read the full stories included in this episode: 

1. Albertsons Proposes ad metrics standards https://bit.ly/3PrFyZf
2. Mark Zuckerberg “accepts” Musk’s fight challenge https://bit.ly/3NKwgqb

On this edition of The Current Report we're joined by Snopes' chief revenue officer, Justin Wohl to discuss authentication. In a small test, Snopes saw a 200% increase in CPMs for ads that were served to a logged in, or authenticated, audience compared to readers tracked via third party cookies. As the cookie continues to crumble and publishers search for future identity solutions, experimenting with authentication could provide publishers a better picture of who they're trying to reach. Plus, NFL's Brian Rolapp believes Netflix could have a bigger role in the sports game in the future.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• A reset button’: How publishers are prepping for a cookie-free future: https://www.thecurrent.com/reset-button-publishers-cookie-free-future
• Early Tests Of Cookieless Chrome Ads Are Encouraging, But Don't Get Too Excited: https://www.adexchanger.com/online-advertising/early-tests-of-cookieless-chrome-ads-are-encouraging-but-dont-get-too-excited/
• Some publishers are starting to see revenue lift from alternative IDs: https://digiday.com/media/some-publishers-are-starting-to-see-revenue-lift-from-alternative-ids/
• NBA can shift the balance of power in media with its next rights deal: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/10/06/nba-can-shift-balance-of-power-in-media-with-rights-deal.html
• SBJ Media: Netflix’s NBA plan: https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/SB-Blogs/Newsletter-Media/2023/11/13.aspx
• Brian Rolapp speaks to Lightshed about Netflix in sports: https://lightshedtmt.com/ls_live/lightshed-live-chief-media-and-business-officer-at-nfl/

This week on The Current Report, Damian Fowler sits in for Chris Brooklier to connect with Jon Cook, the CEO of VML. They break down what to expect at year's Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity.

Plus, some publishers are striking deals with OpenAI, a move that could become increasingly common according to Nicolas Thompson, the CEO of The Atlantic.
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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• The most interesting thing in tech: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7201594636702789633?updateEntityUrn=urn%3Ali%3Afs_feedUpdate%3A%28V2%2Curn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A7201594636702789633%29
• The acronym that brands can't afford to ignore: LMFAO: https://www.thecurrent.com/brands-humor-advertising-holiday-digital

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

This week on The Current Report, we tackle advertising on live sports. As football season is upon us and streaming viewership grows, advertisers are equipped with better tools to advertise on live sports streaming platforms. Plus, recent crackdowns on password sharing are paying off for streaming giants and advertisers. In other news, Google's trial with the U.S. Department of Justice is underway, and Nielsen offers a new free ad-supported television (FAST) platform.

To read the full stories included in this episode:

• It's getting easier to advertise on streaming live sports: https://bit.ly/3EFcPJO
• Streaming crackdown on password sharing and advertisers: https://bit.ly/3PEmjvj
• Google's trial with the U.S. Department of Justice: https://bit.ly/3LnH1x1
• Nielsen's free ad-supported television (FAST) platform: https://bit.ly/46ejM03

The news of Omnicom and IPG merging lit up the advertising world last week. The holding companies had a combined revenue of more than $25 billion in 2023, and merging could make the new-faced Omnicom the largest holding company in the world.

Madison and Wall CEO Brian Wieser joins The Current Report to break down the implications, from the increased scale to how AI plays into the deal.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Omnicom Makes Play to Become Biggest Holdco After Acquiring Interpublic Group For $13.25 Billion: https://bit.ly/3VFbStT
• Here are the numbers to know in Omnicom’s potential purchase of IPG: https://bit.ly/4g4LB0l
• Walgreens’ Caroline Liu on how retail data demystifies the customer experience: https://bit.ly/41DTLZn
• 3 trends reshaping retail media in 2024: Search holds its value, while competition heats up: https://bit.ly/3BhMzaB

_______

The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

This week, we sit down with Dan Larkman, CEO of the programmatic agency Keynes Digital, to break down the hype around AI. Larkman shares his thoughts on the evolution of AI over the past year and where he thinks the innovation is headed. Plus, we spotlight The Current Podcast's interview with Hilton CMO David Weinstein.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Simplifying the streaming experience and AI fatigue: 5 major insights from CES 2024: https://bit.ly/41V57Gi
• Google is finally killing cookies. Advertisers still aren't ready: https://bit.ly/48H4WR1
• 'We can do more and do it faster': How AI will transform the cookie-free future: https://bit.ly/42kQRHj
• What the new Diamond-Amazon deal means for MLB, NBA, NHL: https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/39333324/diamond-amazon-streaming-mlb-nba-nhl
• Amazon will invest in Diamond Sports as part of a bankruptcy restructuring agreement: https://apnews.com/article/bally-sports-amazon-e44313c4491798f1f825a8c4e174f096
• Prime Video Ad Tier CPMs 'Far More' Competitive Than  Netflix's at Launch:https://www.adweek.com/convergent-tv/prime-video-ad-tier-cpms-far-more-competitive-than-netflixs-at-launch/ 
• Hilton's Mark Weinstein on driving loyalty and inspiring wanderlust: https://bit.ly/48F2xa7

The Fifa Women's World Cup kicks off July 20, 2023 and advertisers are keen to be a part of the action. The Current's Emma Shepherd reports on the growing interest in the global event. Plus, Damian Fowler breaks down how Warner Bros. Discovery is licensing shows like Insecure and Band of Brothers to Netflix.

To read the full stories included in this episode:

1. FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023: unveiling squeezeback ads, sold-out ad space, and Optus Sport’s broadcasting strategy: https://www.thecurrent.com/fifa-womens-world-cup-2023--ads-sports-broadcasting-streaming
2. Streaming wars no more: Media companies play nice with content to compete: https://www.thecurrent.com/streaming-platforms-content-subscribers-advertising
3. Netflix to revamp advertising strategy to lure brands and boost revenues: https://www.ft.com/content/dc79eecf-ed3c-486a-8b89-60c67b6ff10a

The Current is live from Cannes for this special edition of The Current Report. Damian Fowler speaks with Spark Foundry CEO Sarah Kramer about this year’s hottest trends at the advertising festival and what it means to be awarded with a lion.

To read the full stories included in this episode: 

1. Cannes Lions at 70: The trends that will mark this anniversary year https://www.thecurrent.com/cannes-lions-trends-ai-diversity-creativity
2. France makes high-profile push to be the A.I. hub of Europe setting up challenge to U.S., China  https://www.cnbc.com/2023/06/19/france-makes-push-to-be-europes-ai-hub-setting-up-us-challenge-.html
3. Magna forecasts global ad market to continue growth as retail and social media accelerate  https://digiday.com/media/magna-forecasts-global-ad-market-to-continue-growth-as-retail-and-social-media-accelerate/#:~:text=IPG%27s%20Magna%20unit%20expects%20the,from%20%24805%20billion%20in%202022.

This month on The Current Report we're spotlighting the future of TV. As Upfront season is on the horizon, brands and agencies are preparing their strategies for the U.S. presidential election and the Summer Olympics. We're also joined by Andrea Kwiatek, director of strategic partnerships at Goodway Group, to discuss the future of TV, CTV and the election cycle, and streaming partnerships.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Amazon is poised to boost its revenue by millions with the flip of a switch: https://bit.ly/3SHo4JA
• U.S. political ad spend on digital projected to jump 156 percent over last presidential election year: https://bit.ly/3SEW9dm
• US political ad spending to soar in 2024 with TV media the biggest winner - report: https://bit.ly/42oJLRZ
• The Current Podcast: https://bit.ly/47Y5FN1

Jennifer Lewis, chief client officer at Carat Canada, joins The Current Report to explore how changing demographics in Canada influence advertisers' strategies, and how she's approaching solutions for measurement in the fragmented TV market. In other news, we also highlight Meta's decision to shut down Facebook News in the U.S. and Australia next month.

To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Programmatic Ad Spending Forecast Q1 2023: https://bit.ly/3T5XAR3
• Canada Connected TV: https://bit.ly/3TpCKxp
• Canada's biggest broadcasters on the future of CTV: https://bit.ly/49ZZ5XK
• As Meta tightens the traffic tap, where will news publications turn for audiences? https://bit.ly/48NY44f
• An Update on Facebook News: https://bit.ly/49G9c4p
• Paying for News: What Google and Meta Owe US Publishers: https://bit.ly/4cgSuu6
• Google, Meta should pay at least $14B per year to news publishers to account for ad revenue: study: https://bit.ly/4c7mXe4
• Meta bailing from Australian news to have 'absolutely disastrous' impact': https://bit.ly/3VfdeMN

The TikTok party didn’t stop in the U.S. as President Trump signed an executive order to keep it active for 75 days. With the clock ticking, marketers are strategizing their next move in case the social media platform does go dark.

Michelle Castillo joins The Current Report to discuss the entire industry's realization that even if a platform seems to be the holy grail of marketing, it’s not worth putting all your budget and efforts behind one thing.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Will they, won’t they ban TikTok? Advertisers mull alternatives: https://bit.ly/40lPaIU
• U.S. Ban of TikTok Is Set to Deal a Major Blow to ByteDance, Its Chinese Owner: https://bit.ly/40LT0N1
• TikTok Ban 2025: https://bit.ly/3CnhYZG
• Nielsen Earns Accreditation for ‘Big Data + Panel’ Ratings Measurement: https://bit.ly/4hrfKat

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

The return of big stars like Jamie Foxx, Snoop Dogg, Kevin Hart and Reese Witherspoon signaled that this year’s upfront presentations were already different from last year’s, which took place during the actors’ and writers’ strikes.

NBCUniversal made a big show of its live sports offerings, from more NFL games on Peacock, to 5,000 hours of Olympics coverage. Chris Brooklier and Travis Clark go inside the presentation, including why one of the company’s ad executives called out walled gardens and transparency.

Plus, Netflix officially announced it would carry two NFL games on Christmas for the first time ever. And we cover Fox, Disney and Amazon’s upfronts news.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• ‘We did not create another opaque walled garden’: NBCU touts transparency (and sports) at upfronts: https://www.thecurrent.com/nbcu-transparency-sports-upfronts
• Streaming takes over the upfronts with Netflix's NFL news and the Great Rebundling: https://www.thecurrent.com/streaming-upfronts-netflix-sports-news-amazon
• Netflix Says Ad Tier Has 40M Users, Plans to Bring Ad Tech In-House in Shift From Microsoft: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/netflix-ad-tier-update-40m-users-shift-from-microsoft-1235900301/
• Appointment TV isn’t dead. It’s making a comeback on streaming platforms: https://www.thecurrent.com/appointment-tv-streaming-platforms
•  Inside the Amazon Upfront: An A-List Gauntlet Is Thrown: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/reese-witherspoon-legally-blonde-series-amazon-upfront-road-house-1235898610/
• Amazon VP Alan Moss Tells Advertisers At Tech Giant’s First Upfront That Putting Ads On Prime Video “Connected The Dots Across Our Universe”:  https://deadline.com/2024/05/amazon-upfront-mike-hopkins-paul-kotas-streaming-advertising-1235915381/
• FOX UPFRONT—BIGGEST TAKEAWAYS FROM ITS PITCH TO ADVERTISERS: https://adage.com/article/special-report-tv-upfront/fox-upfront-super-bowl-fox-news-and-tubi-ad-tech-focus/2560281?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D89208624261719825302994803284811687283%7CMCORGID%3D138FFF2554E6E7220A4C98C6%2540AdobeOrg%7CTS%3D1715759528&CSAuthResp=1%3A%3A5845844%3A150997699%3A24%3Asuccess%3A2BCE6ADF5CE781A1B82431616F540DC8
• Inside the Fox Upfront: Tom Brady, the F-Word and Jamie Foxx in the Flesh: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/tom-brady-jamie-foxx-f-word-fox-upfront-1235898098/
• The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

This week on The Current Report, our own Damian Fowler and Travis Clark discuss what marketers should know about the arrival of Meta-owned app Threads. Plus, the programmatic supply chain is causing advertisers to reflect on where their ad impressions are being served. Next, we review updates in Microsoft’s potential acquisition of video game company Activision Blizzard, and in streaming news, we explore Animayhem, Hulu's new anime hub.

To read the full stories included in this episode: 

1. What marketers should know about threads: https://bit.ly/3JVM5I6
2. Do you know where your ad impressions are being served? https://bit.ly/3PVXprI
3. Microsoft wins FTC fight to buy Activision Blizzard: https://bit.ly/44qQLxM
4. Hulu Launches Adult Animation, Anime Hub Animayhem: https://bit.ly/3Oec4gA

This week on The Current Report, we discuss why flexibility has been the name of the game for some marketers this holiday season. With brand awareness and performance media no longer separate operations, Chris Brooklier and Damian Fowler break down why the marketing funnel is collapsing. Plus, podcast companies are starting to advertise like Hollywood studios, and TikTok expanded its partnership with Ticketmaster.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• NRF: Holiday Spending Could Top $966B: https://bit.ly/3t8HlcS
• This Cyber Monday showed us how fickle shoppers are, and how TV buyers can woo them: https://bit.ly/3RwHv7o
• Podcast Companies Begin to Advertise Like Hollywood Studios: https://bit.ly/3Ri4Rfs
• Podcast U.S. Ad Revenue Projected to Hit $2.3 Billion in 2023, up 25%: https://bit.ly/3tbLSeQ
• TikTok expands its in-app Ticketmaster ticketing feature to users in 20 countries: https://bit.ly/3GAhtd2

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/494Xv7w

Streaming was the star of upfronts week this year, but what's it going to take for it to fully take over the upfronts process? Horizon Media's Samantha Rose gives her take on the latest episode of The Current Report.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Streaming takes over the upfronts with Netflix’s NFL news and the Great Rebundling: https://www.thecurrent.com/streaming-upfronts-netflix-sports-news-amazon
• ‘We did not create another opaque walled garden’: NBCU touts transparency (and sports) at upfronts:  https://www.thecurrent.com/nbcu-transparency-sports-upfronts
  Streaming takes over the upfronts with Netflix’s NFL news and the Great Rebundling: https://bit.ly/3yvmOlm
• ‘We did not create another opaque walled garden’: NBCU touts transparency (and sports) at upfronts: https://bit.ly/44N90OS
• An asteroid is about to hit upfronts: https://bit.ly/3KKlE8i
• TV's Upfront ad-sales talks start to heat up, with some 'rollbacks' expected: https://bit.ly/3VHrgGE
• Global ad revenue to surpass $1 trillion in 2025 as GroupM boosts 2024 forecast for U.S., China: https://bit.ly/3KKWbf4
• GroupM releases its this year next year 2024 midyear global advertising forecast: https://bit.ly/3yWSiki

_______

The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

The landmark adtech trial of the century has now officially come and gone. Google and the Department of Justice wrapped up their cases with closing arguments last week.

Next up – a decision in the case from the Judge presiding in the case, Judge Leonie Brinkema. Judge Brinkema said she expects to have a decision by the end of the year, but that could get pushed out to the start of next year.

To get a better sense of what the closing arguments were like in person I’m bringing on Jason Kint, who has followed the case closely throughout. Kint is the CEO of Digital Content Next, a trade group for digital content providers.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Google and the DOJ spar in court on the last day of the ad tech trial: https://www.thecurrent.com/google-doj-court-ad-tech-trial-data-privacy
• Closing Arguments, November 25: Once, Twice, Three Times a Monopolist: https://www.usvgoogleads.com/trial-updates/closing-arguments-november-25-once-twice-three-times-a-monopolist
• Exclusive: Threads adds 35M new sign-ups this month: https://www.axios.com/2024/11/26/exclusive-threads-adds-35m-new-signups-this-month

_______

The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community.

Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

More and more, brands are under pressure to figure out if they should attach to cultural or social issues, or stay out of those issues all together.

Some of that pressure comes from consumers themselves. A recent survey from sustainability consultant BSR and Morning Consult found that U.S. consumers are four times more likely to say companies need to do more to promote social justice.  

There are examples of brands successfully leaning into so called 'corporate social responsibility', but also examples that resulted in backlash, like Bud Light’s campaign from last year. 

Ben Grossman, CEO of the ad agency Doner, says it all comes down to a brand being in sync with the culture in an authentic way. With many of Doner biggest campaigns being mission driven…he’s got a lot of credibility. 

On this week’s episode, Grossman explained why it’s all about a brand connecting with a story and not just a message. 

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To read the full stories included in this episode: 

• New Research Reveals Strong Support for Social Justice by US Workers and Consumers, Challenging Business to Take Action: https://www.bsr.org/en/news/research-reveals-strong-support-for-social-justice-us-workers-consumers#:~:text=Washington%2C%20DC—October%201%2C,more%20to%20promote%20social%20justice

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______ 

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

On this edition of The Current Report, we discuss the future of holiday advertising as advertisers prepare for the impending deprecation of third-party cookies. We break down why first-party and retail data may be the bow on top of future holiday campaigns as advertisers prepare for this change in landscape. In news across the internet, 18 countries have signed an agreement that aims to make AI "secure by design" and The New York Times reports X may lose as much as 75 million in ad revenue by the end of the year.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Cyber Monday spending hits all-time record: https://bit.ly/3T2LHgg
• First-party and retail data will be tested this holiday season as cookie sunsetting approaches: https://bit.ly/3T4Fn88
• North Face Benefits From First-Party Data, Analyzes Consumer Behavior: https://bit.ly/47AdHw1
• U.S., Britain, other countries approve agreement to make AI ‘secure by design’: https://bit.ly/3Tn9iIX
• X May Lose Up to $75 Million in Revenue as More Advertisers Pull Out: https://bit.ly/3T0GbLd
• Requiem for a friend: https://bit.ly/46CLV0W

_______

The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/494Xv7w

This week on The Current Report, we explore what topics and trends marketers are gambling on at this year's Consumer Electronics Showcase (CES). We connect with IAB Tech Lab's Anthony Katsur and Full Throttle's Amol Waishampayan to discuss AI and the privacy landscape. Plus, we break down which streaming service is forecasted to have the highest percentage of U.S. viewers on an ad plan.

To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Simplifying the streaming experience and AI fatigue: 5 major insights from CES 2024: https://bit.ly/41V57Gi
• The ‘unrivaled’ move you might have missed from Disney’s early upfront at CES: https://bit.ly/3SiSxh3
• Insider Intelligence, Subscription OTT Video Viewers, US, 2023: https://bit.ly/3HBlqPr

This week on The Current Report we discuss the emergence of ad-free social media plans. We dive into the events around Meta's introduction of paid plans and how marketers are responding to the news. In other news, Amazon and Snap are partnering to let U.S. Snapchat users purchase products directly from the app.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Social platforms are testing ad-free subscription plans. What does that mean for brand-builders? https://bit.ly/46xZPRW
• Amazon says it will run shopping ads on Snap: https://bit.ly/3szJlL7
• TikTok Shop launches in the U.S. as the company bets big on e-commerce: https://bit.ly/3R3UvBl

Celebrities reigned once again in many commercials for the Big Game, including Glen Powell doing his own version of Goldilocks in a spot for Ram Trucks.

Two executives at the agency that created the ad, GSD&M’s Kate Rush Sheehy and Chelsea York Vargas, joined The Current Report to share the inside story of the strategy behind the ad.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Disney teases ESPN’s expansive sports streaming future: https://bit.ly/3Cvuiap

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

Exverus Media's managing director Talia Arnold joins The Current Report to break down how much the agency's clients focus on brand safety (in light of GARM shutting down), advertising against the news and why successful brands take a long term approach to strengthen their messaging.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Media planning should be more like long-term investing, not day trading: https://www.thecurrent.com/talia-arnold-exverus-media-planning-data
• It’s time to retire the marketing funnel: https://www.thecurrent.com/marketing-funnel-exverus-media-director-data
• For Context: Advertising in a recession: https://youtu.be/VU0n5wma-rQ?si=ti1A_A-4wc_KBjHb
• P&G, L’Oréal, and more increase ad spend as inflation falls: https://www.thecurrent.com/proctor-gamble-loreal-inflation-ad-spend-marketing-recession-sales-federal-reserve
• Walmart Releases Q2 FY25 Earnings: https://corporate.walmart.com/news/2024/08/15/walmart-releases-q2-fy25-earnings

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

As 2023 marked a year of brands hitting the big screen, brands are seeing the value in streaming partnerships that subvert traditional advertising. In this episode of The Current Report, we're joined by McCall Gridley, Tastemade head of sales & partner experience, to explore why brand-funded shows are getting bigger on streaming. Plus, the NFL is adding more exclusive games on streaming platforms, and why we'll see more B2B company sponsorships for the upcoming 2024 Paris games.
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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Breaking down the 'Barbie' marketing machine - from the plastic to fantastic: https://bit.ly/3xcZIPv
• Barbie unboxed: Brands are having their Hollywood moment: https://bit.ly/49gfvKH
• Pinterest launches first-ever streaming TV show with Tastemade: https://bit.ly/3PHNdlp
• Streaming must innovate past the 30-second ad to help unlock its true potential: https://bit.ly/3T316vg
• The NFL Tightens Its Grip on Christmas, Adds Peacock Game: https://bit.ly/49hYXCj
• NFL's Marissa Solis on the Taylor Swift effect and how she's helping the league maintain its legacy while staying relevant: https://bit.ly/4abruuv
• What Peacock's NFL playoff game and Netflix's WWE deal signal for the future of sports streaming: https://bit.ly/3SBaUwm
• Why are so many B2B firms sponsoring the Olympics?: https://bit.ly/4atypzv

It’s the final episode of The Current Report for the year, so we’re recapping the biggest stories and topics of 2024 – from streaming to potential fallout with both of Google’s antitrust cases, the state of news advertising and the landmark year for podcasting.

To help us get a handle on this dramatic year in ad tech who better than Lou Paskalis. Lou has decades of experience in the advertising industry as an executive for American Express, Bank of America and the trade body MMA Global.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• The power of news advertising: A win-win for marketers and democracy: https://bit.ly/3P9fsZI
• GroupM 2024 Global End-of-Year Forecast: Open link in new tabhttps://bit.ly/3P5GD7x
• Global ad market to surpass $1 trillion for first time: https://bit.ly/41KeNFp
• US streaming revenue to overtake pay TV in 2024: https://bit.ly/3Buexjv
• Why experts say this election showed the power of podcasts: https://bit.ly/3P8XeaS
• Requiem for a friend: https://bit.ly/40fb69X
• Google and the DOJ spar in court on the last day of the ad tech trial: https://bit.ly/3V7KwfW

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

The Department of Justice is proposing big remedies in the Google antitrust search case, after a landmark ruling in August found Google held a monopoly over search. These remedies could reshape the future of the internet.

The headline: the Justice Department wants Google to sell its Chrome browser and share data. Plus it’s leaving the door open for Android to be sold as well.

Search advertising accounted for over $49 billion in revenue last quarter in Alphabet’s latest earnings report, 75% of its total ad sales. The DOJ says it aims to level the playing field to correct the search monopoly Google maintains. Google calls the DOJ’s proposal, “unprecedented government overreach.”

Ultimately Judge Amit Mehta will rule on the official remedies, which he’s expected to do next summer.

There is a lot to talk about with this search case and how it ties into the other Google antitrust trial focused on adtech, where closing arguments begin today. Arielle Garcia, director of intelligence at ad watchdog Check My Ads has been following both cases and joins the show to break down her top takeaways and what the future could hold.

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To see the full stories included in this episode:

• DOJ urges Google to sell Chrome and give advertisers more control: https://www.thecurrent.com/doj-google-chrome-advertisers-data
• Google’s Chrome Worth Up to $20 Billion If Judge Orders Sale: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-11-18/doj-will-push-google-to-sell-off-chrome-to-break-search-monopoly
• Why the US forced sale of Google's Chrome faces legal hurdles: https://www.reuters.com/technology/legal-hurdles-ahead-googles-forced-sale-chrome-2024-11-21/
• Alphabet shares rise on earnings beats boosted by cloud revenue: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/10/29/alphabet-to-report-q3-earnings-after-the-bell.html
• DOJ’s staggering proposal would hurt consumers and America’s global technological leadership: https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/public-policy/doj-search-remedies-nov-2024/

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

The Current is on the ground at Advertising Week in New York, speaking to top-level marketers about the industry's biggest topics, from the future of streaming to retail media networks and potential impending fallout from the Google antitrust adtech trial.

On this episode of The Current Report, UM Worldwide's chief product officer Andy Littlewood breaks down why he thinks AI is advancing past being simply a buzzword, moving into an age of intelligence, how the definition of being a large agency has changed today and what keeps him up at night.

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To read the full stories included in this episode: 

• Where ‘60 Minutes’ and ‘Call Her Daddy’ Fit Into Kamala Harris’s Unorthodox Media Strategy: https://www.wsj.com/politics/elections/where-60-minutes-and-call-her-daddy-fit-in-kamala-harriss-unorthodox-media-strategy-8d8a0cd9
• What Going on Call Her Daddy Did for Kamala Harris: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2024/10/kamala-harris-call-her-daddy-podcast/680181/
• Harris talks about marijuana and racial identity in 'All the Smoke' interview: https://www.npr.org/2024/09/30/nx-s1-5133963/kamala-harris-marijuana-racial-identity

_______ 

The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______ 

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

FAST platforms like Tubi, Pluto TV and The Roku Channel have made a fast rise in the streaming world.

So how can they make their next jump to grab viewers attention? Live sports has big potential. Listen to this episode of The Current Report for more.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Roku-MLB partnership marks a first for live sports on FAST platforms: https://www.thecurrent.com/roku-mlb-live-sports-fast-streaming 
• Why FAST platforms like Tubi are reaching the next stage in their evolution: https://www.thecurrent.com/fast-platforms-tubi-are-streaming
• FAST platforms are on the rise. How can they keep up the momentum?: https://www.thecurrent.com/fast-tv-platforms-sports-tubi-advertising
• Nielsen's May 2024 Report of The Gauge™: https://www.nielsen.com/news-center/2024/the-gauge-may-2024-young-sheldon-covergent-tv-win/
• NBA finalizes TV deals with ESPN, NBC, Amazon, but TNT could still match: Sources: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5629508/2024/07/10/nba-tv-deal-espn-nbc-amazon-tnt/

_________

The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

__________

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

This week, The Current’s senior editorial director, Kat Vesce, hosts The Current Report to discuss how the the ad world is shifting their marketing approach amid changing market conditions. Plus, General Motors doubles their ad spend for Black-owned media and their lead of diverse media strategy and investment discusses why supporting diverse media is a business imperative. In other news across the internet, Spanish-language network TelevisaUnivision reports their best upfront in a decade, and Sony delays the release of major films amid the ongoing actors’ strike.

To read the full stories included in this episode:

• P&G, L’Oréal, and more increase ad spend as inflation falls: https://bit.ly/3OICJlZ
• GM’s Brianne Boles-Marshall is on a mission to support Black-owned media: https://bit.ly/3Ym6pZd
• TelevisaUnivision Has Best Upfront in Nearly a Decade for Volume: https://bit.ly/3s1Kavj
• With Actors on Strike, Sony Pushes Big Releases to 2024: https://bit.ly/45hRW2N

We’re days away from the Big Game, and with that, watch parties full of snacks.

Grocery prices are going up, as everything from bird flu to bad weather are hiking up prices at the highest pace in more than a year. The cost of groceries increased nearly 2% in December compared to the year before, according to the Labor Department.

A way to help stem those costs? Discounts and cash-back offers, which is where a company like Ibotta comes in. Over 50 million people use Ibotta to save money in exchange for their purchase data.

For marketers, Ibotta unlocks real-time transaction data to connect measurement and campaign performance. The company’s founder and CEO, Bryan Leach, joins The Current Report to discuss the CPG environment and share how marketers can unlock results with big data ahead of the game.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Food Prices Are Rising Again: https://bit.ly/4hJG2F6
• Super Bowl LIX spending for the big game: https://bit.ly/40LaLKP
• Retailers, grocers look to score big on Super Bowl sales: https://bit.ly/42GqoFZ

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

This week on The Current Report, Damian Fowler and Travis Clark break down the explosion of retail media and explain why retail data and connected TV (CTV) are a dynamic duo. Plus, some major streaming services have introduced "pause ads" and how the iconic McDonald's jingle came to be "one of the most recognizable jingles in the world," according to Marketing Brew.

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To read the full stories included in this episode: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/spotify-subscribers-beat-third-quarter-earnings-1235621581/

Spotify Hits 226M Paying Subs, Swings to Quarterly Profit: 

Is retail media becoming just 'media'?: https://bit.ly/3QkOVZM

'Pause Ads' Creep Onto Hulu, Peacock and Max as Streamers Seek New Revenue: https://bit.ly/408ZDHb

McDonald's jingle, 20 years later: https://bit.ly/3Qgr1hM

A.I. is a divisive topic in advertising, particularly amongst creatives.

From Cannes Lions 2024, Pereira O'Dell's chief creative officer Jason Apaliski shares why he's supportive of A.I. "There could be doom and gloom of what it means for the industry and the world and the jobs, but I see it as one that's an opportunity. [It's] a tool that if you can take advantage of now, you'll see the benefits of it."

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Cannes Lions 2024: Much ado about AI, Olympics frenzy and Elon Musk’s apology tour: https://www.thecurrent.com/cannes-lions-2024-ai-olympic-sports-elon-musk
• At Cannes, advertising leaders sound the alarm on the state of news: https://www.thecurrent.com/cannes-advertising-leaders-news-publishers
• Why commerce media networks are making a bigger play at Cannes Lions 2024: https://digiday.com/marketing/why-commerce-media-networks-are-making-a-bigger-play-at-cannes-lions-2024/
• Axios at Cannes Lions: Axios' Sara Fischer in conversation with Meredith Kopit Levien:
• https://youtu.be/3WK9-2a8pwU?si=PUudR86ZqC9Z2erc

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

Upfront deals are now being activated now that the fall season is underway – the traditional moment when TV networks launch their prime shows.

But as we’ve seen in recent years, streaming platforms and companies have become an emerging force in the upfronts market.

One of the main players in the streaming market is Roku, which has seen big growth in revenue recently. The company’s overall revenue was up 14% year over year, according to its latest earnings report.

On this episode of The Current Report, Jay Askinasi, Roku's SVP, Head of Global Media Revenue and Growth, breaks down how how much importance the upfronts have now. Plus he dives into Roku's success airing MLB games, the DirecTV and DISH merger and consolidation in the streaming and traditional TV market.

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To read the full stories included in this episode: 

• Roku–MLB partnership marks a first for live sports on FAST platforms: https://www.thecurrent.com/roku-mlb-live-sports-fast-streaming
• DirecTV to Acquire Dish in Merger of Satellite TV Rivals: https://variety.com/2024/tv/news/directv-acquires-dish-merger-1236159244/
• PayPal just opened a new ad business. The exec leading it unpacks the plan to link advertisers with its trove of transaction data.: https://www.businessinsider.com/paypal-is-launching-a-retail-media-ad-network-plan-2024-10

_______ 

The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______ 

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

Steve Ellis, COO of Paramount Advertising, joins The Current Report to discuss earnings, advertising opportunities on Paramount + and how Paramount is using live sports as an entryway for other content.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• - Streaming to Overtake Pay TV Subscription Revenue in the U.S. This Year: https://bit.ly/3ViLkj1
• - Streaming must innovate past the 30-second ad to help unlock its true potential: https://bit.ly/3T316vg

The Fed dropped interest rates last week for the first time in 4 years. So what's it all mean for marketers?

On this episode of The Current Report, we're diving into what verticals could be affected the most with Noble People's Steven Frey. 
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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Annual US consumer inflation fell to 2.5% in August, a 3-year low: https://apnews.com/article/inflation-prices-interest-rates-economy-federal-reserve-bb1f4cfeede550c6c82fd78e2ea537a5 
• The Fed cut rates for the first time in 4 years. What does that mean for your money?: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/fed-cut-rates-money-impacts/ 
• Google’s ad tech impact on publishers front and center during opening day of DOJ’s antitrust trial: https://digiday.com/media/googles-ad-tech-impact-on-publishers-front-and-center-during-opening-day-of-dojs-antitrust-trial/
• Your Day One Recap: DOJ vs. Google Goes Deep Into The Ad Tech Weeds: https://www.adexchanger.com/antitrust/your-day-one-recap-doj-vs-google-goes-deep-into-the-ad-tech-weeds/
• DOJ vs. Google, Day Five Rewind: Prebid Reality Check, Unfair Rev Share And Jedi Blue (Sorta): https://www.adexchanger.com/marketers/doj-vs-google-day-five-rewind-prebid-reality-check-unfair-rev-share-and-jedi-blue-sorta/
• Google dominates online ads, says antitrust trial witness, but publishers are feeling ‘stuck’: https://www.theverge.com/2024/9/11/24241386/former-news-corp-executive-google-doj-ad-tech-trial 

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

Walmart finalized its $2.3 billion acquisition of VIZIO. And for for Walmart, this deal is clearly about more than selling TVs.

Walmart can match its shopping transaction data with Vizio’s data on who’s watching what to make things like ad targeting much more precise.

And that’s a big deal for the retailer, as almost a third of its operating income in the last quarter, about 2 billion dollars, came through advertising. This sets up Walmart’s business of the future.

Joel Cox, co-founder and EVP of innovation and strategy at media agency Strategus, breaks down this fusing of retail media and streaming on this week's episode of The Current Report. Cox says this deal is bigger than might initially meet the eye because non-endemic advertisers can connect to Walmart and Vizio's data to leverage their strategies.
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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Walmart Completes Acquisition of VIZIO: https://corporate.walmart.com/news/2024/12/03/walmart-completes-acquisition-of-vizio
• Programmatic ad platform market projected to hit $117bn by 2034: https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/programmatic-advertising-platform-market

_______

The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

This week on The Current Report, Damian Fowler and Zac Wang discuss the emergence of ride-hailing and food-delivery services like Uber and Deliveroo as strong competitors in the retail media space. Plus, we break down how interactive, shoppable TV ads may be the next frontier of e-commerce. Finally, in other news across the internet, elements of Europe’s Digital Services Act are now in effect, and a recent report from CNN shows malls in America are thriving.

To read the full stories included in this episode:

1. Ride-hailing and food-delivery services to offer ads: https://bit.ly/45LrJK0
2. Shoppable TV ads are a hit with streaming audiences: https://bit.ly/3stIviF
3. EU digital services act goes into effect: https://bit.ly/45JHEZg
4. US malls thrive as retailers bring e-commerce IRL according to CNN report: https://bit.ly/45Iq1Jr

This week, we discuss all things privacy and identity-related as Google continues to deprecate cookies and the EU adds to developing data legislation. We sit down with Evan Hills, SVP of strategy and partnerships at Dstillery, to discuss how marketers are navigating this transition. Plus, in news across the internet, Paramount will not return to Upfront Week, and mixed reality devices could be the next technological innovation.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• The next step toward phasing out third-party cookies in Chrome: https://bit.ly/3vN4rGZ
• CMA Q3 2023 update report on implementation of the Privacy Sandbox commitments: https://bit.ly/3Uar6ax
• 'A reset button': How publishers are prepping for a cookie-free future: https://bit.ly/48MIab4
• Some publishers are starting to see revenue lift from alternative IDs: https://bit.ly/48Ktuch
• Paramount Confirms It Won't Return to Upfront Week: https://bit.ly/48OdWUT
• Mixed reality is the next shiny thing for marketers, but some remain cautious: https://bit.ly/494Gaus

Boasting the NFL, March Madness, PGA events like the Masters, plus Big Ten football and basketball, CBS Sports is a king maker in live sports.

On this edition of The Current Report, we explore how advertisers are taking hold of those games being streamed.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• How CBS Sports is bridging the transition between traditional TV and streaming: https://bit.ly/3R5n2WB
• US TV and Connected TV Ad Spending Forecasts H1 2024: https://bit.ly/3X1zw5k
• US Political Ad Spending Forecast 2024: https://bit.ly/3wPehZZ
• As U.S. election looms, political advertisers shift focus to CTV: https://bit.ly/3V1XE5r

_______

The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

In this edition of The Current Report, Kat Vesce and Zac Wang break down the growth of original commissions in Europe and what European content might look like in the future. Next, they look at Major League Baseball's new jersey sponsorships and the Barbie movie's box-office milestones.

To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Amid a global streaming slowdown, Europe’s content machine revs into high gear: https://bit.ly/3OTewco
• Baseball is sporting jersey sponsorships for the first time, and it could be big for brands: https://bit.ly/47p9ETH
• What Lionel Messi and ‘Squid Game’ Have in Common: https://bit.ly/3KYwbxl
• Only 5 female directors have ever had a movie make more than $800 million at the box office — here they all are: https://bit.ly/3QyRtow

This week on The Current Report, Damian Fowler and Chris Brooklier break down Disney and Charter's new carriage agreement and what the partnership might mean for the next evolution of TV and streaming. Plus, luxury giants in Europe are pushing to programmatic advertising as the global personal luxury market is expected to grow. In other news, the writers' strike might be coming to a close and Max is launching a live sports offering in October.

To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Disney-Charter deal and the evolution of linear TV and streaming: https://bit.ly/3t74ZX2
• Europe's luxury brands & programmatic: https://bit.ly/3ZpsWVz
• The writers' strike might be coming to a close: https://bit.ly/3LwxQdD
• Warner Bros. Discovery's live sports offering: https://bit.ly/3Rv9a92

Ad tech dominated the CES experience again, with ease as a key tenet of conversations across the week.

Making the advertising experience easy for brands and agencies is a top priority for Spotify in 2025. The digital audio giant has opened up programmatic capabilities for advertisers of all sizes by testing its own ad exchange.

Still, according to WARC, In 2024, audio will account for 24.5% of ad-supported media consumption in the US but just 8.4% of ad spend.

Spotify's VP and global head of advertising, Lee Brown, joins The Current Report to break down why that is.

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To read the full stories included in this episode: 

• Beyond the gadgets, ad tech and AI are center stage at CES 2025: https://bit.ly/4j6Wdxz
• The first TV merger of 2025 could be a sign of things to come: https://bit.ly/3Pyn9sF
• Spotify launching an ad exchange: https://bit.ly/4fVAEgJ
• Addressing the audio investment gap: https://bit.ly/40DebAR

_______ 

The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______ 

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

More non-traditional advertising companies have entered the ad game recently with their own media networks, from Uber to United Airlines leveraging their deep amounts of consumer data.

Now PayPal is the latest entrant, led by the architect of Uber’s ad business Mark Grether.

With over a trillion dollars of digital transactions running through PayPal every year, 400 million active accounts, and 35 million merchants on the platform, Grether believes this 360° view differentiates PayPal from the rest of the retail media network market.

Grether joined The Current Report to talk about why the moment is right for PayPal Ads to launch and lessons he’s bringing over from Uber.

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To read the full stories included in this episode: 

• PayPal enters the ads game, led by an architect of Uber's $1 billion advertising business https://bit.ly/3Nq44rn
• Live from Advertising Week New York: Google, commerce networks and quality media: https://bit.ly/3A43mgu
• Exclusive: 62% of consumers find new brands or products through TV: https://bit.ly/3UgM9ax
• Digital transactions running through PayPal: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/dgrether_paypal-advertising-activity-7201194087289344000-eZ-m/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
• PayPal and Venmo Unveil Six New Innovations to Revolutionize Commerce: https://about.pypl.com/news-details/2024/PayPal-and-Venmo-Unveil-Six-New-Innovations-to-Revolutionize-Commerce/default.aspx

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

Bringing you the biggest news from Advertising Week New York, The Current Report's Damian Fowler discusses the recent formation of VML, which merges Wunderman Thompson and VMLY&R, with the new company's Global CEO Jon Cook. Plus, we explore hot topics from the annual event with Butler/Till's Chief Strategy Officer Scott Ensign.

To read the full stories included in this episode:

• WPP Merging VMLY&R With Wunderman Thompson: https://www.wsj.com/articles/wpp-merging-vmly-r-with-wunderman-thompson-37ec147b
• The link between AI and CTV, Netflix's bid for live sports, and more from Advertising Week NY: https://www.thecurrent.com/netflix-advertising-ctv-ai-netflix-sports-streaming-media
• Kroger to measure the carbon emissions impact of its retail media network: https://adage.com/article/marketing-news-strategy/kroger-measure-carbon-emissions-impact-its-retail-media-network/2523146
• The New York Times quietly brought programmatic ad buying back to its app after digital ad revenue declined: https://www.businessinsider.com/the-new-york-times-is-reintroducing-programmatic-app-ads-2023-10

At this year's Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity, Dramamine took home a Grand Prix award for its "The Last Barf Bag" documentary. This week on The Current Report, we're going behind the scenes on the campaign with Prestige Consumer Healthcare's VP of marketing Randi Jachino.
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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• The Current's Cannes section: https://www.thecurrent.com/sections/the-current-cannes
• Dramamine's mini-doc about airplane barf bags wins health and wellness grand prix: https://bit.ly/3L0oupX
• Netflix's Greg Peters on a new culture memo and where ads, AI, and games fit in: https://bit.ly/4cJIKYJ
• 5 Minutes with PMG's George Popstefanov: https://bit.ly/3VI9tOk
• The Current's Cannes Lions section: https://bit.ly/3L5QW9Y

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

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Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

That's a wrap! In the final The Current Report of 2023, we ask marketers their thoughts on one of the hottest topics in the advertising world - streaming. Strategus’ Joel Cox join us to discuss their main insights in streaming, from live sports to Amazon launching an ad plan for Prime Video, joining several other streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+ and Max who have done so. In news across the internet, some of Disney's most popular shows are heading to Netflix, and Spotify struck a deal with Warner Bros. Discovery to monetize podcasts from CNN, HBO, and Bleacher Report.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Bigger costs, more ads: What Hollywood could look like after the writers' strike: https://bit.ly/3REXAIB
• Hollywood's strikes are both now over as actors reach deal with studios and return to work with writers: https://bit.ly/3TpHBPo
• Walmart will use its shopper data to power ads on NBCU's live sports streams: https://bit.ly/3GKesqJ
• The curtain's coming down on Showtime...sort of: https://bit.ly/4al7FBq
• Chrome's Deprecation Trial - No Ad Tech Allowed; Streamers Shed More Content: https://bit.ly/3GITDvJ
• Here Are the 14 Non-Marvel/Pixar/Star Wars Shows Disney is Licensing to Netflix: https://bit.ly/3RnPouw
• Spotify Inks Podcast Deal With Warner Bros. Discover for CNN, HBO and More Shows: https://bit.ly/3v3ML9N
• Disney's Former C.E.O. Gave Me the Exit Interview I Asked for: https://bit.ly/4aiZtS5
• Fox's Tubi to Stream DC Titles Including 'The Batman,' 'Black Adam,' 'Wonder Woman': https://bit.ly/3RqFMz1

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

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Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/494Xv7w

In this edition of The Current Report, we break down Google's Privacy Sandbox and takeaways from IAB Tech Lab's critical assessment of the initiative. We're joined by digital advertising space veterans John Donahue, partner at up and to the right, and Rob Norman, digital advertising advisor, to discuss their overall thoughts on Privacy Sandbox, platform transparency issues, and what the landscape might look like in a year.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

•  'The industry isn't ready yet': A new report highlights flaws in Google's Privacy Sandbox': https://bit.ly/3SOLADs
•  IAB Tech Lab Privacy Sandbox: https://bit.ly/49Hk1Th
•  Walmart Agrees to Acquire VIZIO HOLDING CORP.: https://bit.ly/3Ib954I
•  Walmart will derive more profit from services, ad sales in the next 5 years - CFO: https://bit.ly/3SRob41
• On chocolate and politics: What CPG brands and political campaigns have in common: https://bit.ly/3ST49GA

Nearly a week after Google sent shockwaves by halting its plan to deprecate third party cookies in the Chrome web browser, @IAB Tech Lab CEO @Anthony Katsur thinks cookies will still go away eventually.

Hear why on this episode of The Current Report.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Under pressure, Google halts third-party cookie deprecation in Chrome: https://www.thecurrent.com/google-third-party-cookies-deprecation-chrome-identity-privacy 
• How Google’s U-turn on cookie deprecation will affect European marketers: https://www.thecurrent.com/google-cookie-deprecation-european-british-marketers-identity-privacy
• Digital Audio Ad Spending Forecast and Trends Q2 2024: https://www.emarketer.com/content/digital-ad-spending-forecast-trends-q2-2024 

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

Political campaigns have long been challenged with evidence that their ads or messaging is working.

Now, tech from Swayable’s James Slezak is making that measurement possible in real-time. Hear more on this week’s episode of The Current Report.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Inside political marketers' strategies to get Democrats elected: https://www.thecurrent.com/political-marketers-strategies-democratic-national-convention
• Seven swing states set to decide the 2024 US election: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c511pyn3xw3o
• State of the screens: https://crossscreen-7038182.hs-sites.com/state-of-the-screens-379-2024-ad-wars-6-big-questions?ecid=ACsprvvRV-kfGoPKvgnqLy3maQ6UKkVk_Lo6lklMpBE2S6xmO0bAIjf1KjVROzAVYzrPQw6U2TPh&utm_campaign=State%20of%20the%20Screens%20Weekly%20Newsletter&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--GNM3XUdIVgcjYzZXX1-Wi1gMk-aw-GkVtoVrFn-k8jPcJLZz4axho9RvAJXQ4GKy5Fcd2ZtkV--p0tOBdKuQqGgPgKw&_hsmi=319429517&utm_content=319429517&utm_source=hs_email

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

Now that the Google antitrust trial focused around digital advertising has ended, the next move will be the Department of Justice and Google coming back to the courtroom November 25 for closing arguments.

Marketecture's Ari Paparo, who has covered the entire trial, dives into what he thought of Google's defense, what the ruling might be and what the next steps could be for the digital advertising industry.

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To read the full stories included in this episode: 

• ‘They were holding us hostage’: Inside the groundbreaking Google ad tech trial: https://www.thecurrent.com/whats-happening-at-the-google-ad-tech-trial
• Beyond Day 15: What's next for Google? https://monopoly.marketecture.tv/p/beyond-day-15-d0ef
• Day 13: The end is nigh! https://monopoly.marketecture.tv/p/day-13-the-end-is-nigh
• Readers Are Flocking To Political News, Says WaPo – And Advertisers Are Missing Out: https://www.adexchanger.com/publishers/readers-are-flocking-to-political-news-says-wapo-and-advertisers-are-missing-out/

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______ 

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

Mike O’Sullivan, CEO of data firm Sincera, joins The Current Report to break down why quality advertising is at a premium, made for advertising sites (MFAs), and the top 100 publishers list Sincera and The Trade Desk recently came out with.

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The Current is owned and operated by The Trade Desk, Inc.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• The successor to viewability is not a metric — it’s a methodology: https://www.thecurrent.com/opinion-viewability-metric-methodology-sincera-mike-osullivan
• The value of the open internet is growing in the eyes of advertisers: https://www.thecurrent.com/report-open-internet-digital-advertisers
• Despite pressure to tighten budgets, marketers still invest in authenticated digital channels like CTV: https://www.thecurrent.com/marketing-authenticated-digital-channels-ctv

The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

Two years after Tubi's ad during football's Big Game stole the attention of millions, the FAST platform is streaming the game itself.

It's an incredible turn of events and another landmark moment in the evolution of live sports streaming. Of course, the game will still be broadcast on Fox, but for the first time ever, the Big Game will be shown for free on a FAST platform.

Tubi CMO Nicole Parlapiano joins The Current Report to share its strategy for marketing the news.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Tubi Has Some Momentum. The Super Bowl May Give a Big Boost to the Free Service: https://bit.ly/40ThYdk
• Tubi’s Nicole Parlapiano on sustaining growth after virality: https://bit.ly/4aCBBJP
• Super Bowl updates—weight loss drugs, potty breaks and cash giveaways: https://bit.ly/40I4zDo
• Super Bowl Ads Hit $8 Million; Expect More AI and Fewer Movies: https://bit.ly/42Diddz

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

Google is in the middle of its defense during the third week of the DOJ's adtech antitrust trial.

On this episode of The Current Report, attorney Tom Blakely shares why he believes the government has a strong case.

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To read the full stories included in this episode: 

• Google’s No Good Very Bad Start to Its Case: https://substack.com/@tomblakely/p-149221869

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______ 

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

Momentum has been high for Democrats since Kamala Harris became the party's nominee a month ago. But how do Democrats keep that going into election day? And what strategies are they using to target swing voters?

Middle Seat's Elizabeth Bennett shares her wisdom in this special episode of The Current Report, from the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.

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• Inside political marketers' strategies to get Democrats elected: https://www.thecurrent.com/political-marketers-strategies-democratic-national-convention   
• Harris Campaign Reserves $370 Million for Swing-State Fall Ad Blitz: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/17/us/politics/kamala-harris-ads.html
• We dug into the 2024 polling crosstabs. What we found was stunning:
• https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2024/08/21/kamala-harris-gains-polls-00175262
• Exclusive: Harris' election effort raises around $500 million in a month, sources say: https://www.reuters.com/world/us/harris-election-effort-raises-around-500-million-month-sources-say-2024-08-20/
• U.S. political CTV ad spend projected to grow by 600% this presidential election cycle: https://www.thecurrent.com/us-political-ctv-ad-spend-2024-presidential-election-cycle

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

On this edition of The Current Report, Damian Fowler returns as host to discuss all things sports. Starting off in the U.S., we explore the transition of live sports from traditional TV to streaming as some legacy media companies and tech giants pursue streaming sports rights. Next, European soccer leagues have their eyes on a growing fanbase in the U.S. In other news across the internet, X will reportedly no longer allow advertisers to promote accounts within the platform's timelines, and the increasing cost of streaming prices might be part of a bigger plan.

Goodway Group's Mike Wolk, VP of growth and partnerships, breaks down how the media agency is building its strategy around the biggest screen in the house - the TV. Plus, eMarketer projects that retail media CTV ad spend will be approximately 3.6 billion in 2024 with even more growth projected by 2027.

To read the full stories included in this episode:

• To advertisers' delight, the latest trend in TV is toward 100-inch screens: https://bit.ly/43gEJYf
• CTV and Retail Media: How They Are Working Together to Drive Results for Brands: https://bit.ly/3wVnD64
• TV vs Smartphone: How Netflix Viewing Changes by Device: https://bit.ly/3TfKLUs
• Meet the Analyst: Retail Media Measurement—Closing the Loop Across Media Formats and Sales Channels: https://bit.ly/3Pmxb02
• Insider Intelligence October 2023, Retail Media Ad Spending, US: https://bit.ly/3IzWtEq

AdFontes Media’s Lou Paskalis joins The Current Report to break down the recent Stagwell study that revealed it's safe for brands to advertise alongside news content. Plus, Netflix is phasing out its cheapest ad-free tier for existing subscribers.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• At Cannes, advertising leaders sound the alarm on the state of news: https://www.thecurrent.com/cannes-advertising-leaders-news-publishers
• Turning the vicious cycle of news and advertising into a virtuous one: https://www.thecurrent.com/cycle-news-advertising-stagwell-mark-penn-ceo
• A new study aims to convince advertisers that the news is brand-safe: https://www.thecurrent.com/study-advertisers-news-stagwell-brand-safe
• Netflix is starting to phase out its cheapest ad-free plan: https://www.theverge.com/2024/7/2/24190632/netflix-ad-free-basic-plan-discontinued

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

Big tech is battling journalism over proposed legislation in California that would force companies like Google to pay to carry links to news articles. In response, Google is removing links from news outlets in the state. We break down the consequences this week on The Current Report with journalist Matt Pearce.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Google blocking links to California news outlets from search results: https://bit.ly/49NA4hY
• Can Legislation Save Journalism in California?: https://bit.ly/3Uad3Qs
• Why the California Journalism Preservation Act is putting support of the news ecosystem at risk: https://bit.ly/49QBcSc
• A new bill could help save California journalism. Google wants it dead: https://bit.ly/3W8LhGH
• Why video game platforms are adopting programmatic ad buying: https://bit.ly/4aIspTA

This week on The Current Report, we dive into how the writers' and actors' strikes, which have brought Hollywood to a halt, will impact the advertising market. Ilyse Liffreing and Travis Clark also break down how the strike will impact the shift from broadcast TV to streaming. Also, with Barbie premiering today, we look at how brands like Air Jordan, Blackberry, and Flamin' Hot are having their moment on the big screen.

To read the full stories included in this episode:

1. The perfect storm rattling Hollywood has major implications for advertisers: https://bit.ly/3K8DBxz
2. Barbie unboxed: Brands are having their Hollywood moment: https://bit.ly/3K8DDWd
3. You can thank the American retail consumer for the soft landing: https://bit.ly/43vEkzH
4. Kids push TV usage up in June, with 90% of their increased usage coming from non-traditional sources: https://bit.ly/44W41uq

Today on The Current Report, Pereira O'Dell's chief growth officer Mona Gonzalez talks about why she thinks purpose driven work is standing out as some of the top ad campaigns at Cannes Lions. Plus Gannett sues Google, alleging it holds a monopoly on the advertising market and Wieden&Kennedy wins big in the new gaming category at Cannes.

To read the full stories included in this episode:

1. Gannett Sues Google, Accusing It of Dominating the Ad Market https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/20/business/media/gannett-google-lawsuit.html
2. Cannes Lions: NBCUniversal Expands One Platform Digital Ad System Through Alliances With European, Asian Broadcasters https://variety.com/2023/tv/news/nbcuniversal-one-platform-digital-ad-system-1235648879/

If journalism isn't around, how will generative A.I. models feed new information? 

In part two of our interview with former LA Times journalist Matt D Pearce on the future of journalism and the California Journalism Preservation Act, we break down why it makes business sense for A.I. models to keep reporters around. "Google should pay its fair share for the work of journalism, even if only not out of charity. Not because Google needs to feel good about itself. Google needs quality information to continue grounding its A.I. models."

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Big Tech and journalism battle over proposed legislation in California: https://bit.ly/49WZhXs
• With AI looming as a threat to news sites, publishers push back: https://bit.ly/4dgOkTl
• As Meta tightens the traffic tap, where will news publications turn for audiences?: https://bit.ly/3UxAEfs
• Marketers unfazed as Google delays cookie deprecation for third time: https://bit.ly/49Xrc9J
• Update on the plan for phase-out of third-party cookies on Chrome: https://bit.ly/3wcPZbY

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

Days out from the opening ceremonies on NBC and Peacock, we highlight how programmatic is carrying the torch for the first time this Olympics. Listen to The Current Report for more.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• French advertisers eye the opportunity of a century in Paris 2024: https://www.thecurrent.com/programmatic-2024-olympics-media-buyers-streaming 
• The Olympics’ role in culture is evolving, and advertisers are moving with it: https://bit.ly/4d4IK5E
• Why are so many B2B firms sponsoring the Olympics?: https://bit.ly/4atypzv
• NBCUniversal's Alison Levin on strategic audience buying, the power of brand storytelling and the Paris Olympics: https://bit.ly/4cNaRX9
• 5 minutes with Spotify's Emma Vaughn: https://bit.ly/3Sg4PpP

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR

The Current Report is a weekly round-up of what’s happening in the world of digital media. On this edition of The Current Report, Damian Fowler and Chris Brooklier break down how local news publishers are looking for new ways to increase revenue. Plus, artificial intelligence (AI) is primed to be all the rage at Cannes this year, CNN CEO Chris Licht is booted following a bombshell story in The Atlantic, and the PGA and LIV merge.

To read the full stories included in this episode: 

1. In a challenging media market, local news taps new tools to drive revenue https://www.thecurrent.com/media-market-news-revenue-advertising-journalism
2. AI, ad efficiency, and transparency dominate the narrative at The Trade Desk’s Kokai launch event https://www.thecurrent.com/ai-advertising-data-retail-media-the-trade-desk-kokai
3. CNN Chairman and CEO Chris Licht is out after a brief and tumultuous tenure https://www.cnn.com/2023/06/07/media/chris-licht-cnn
4. PGA Tour, LIV Golf Agree to Merge https://www.wsj.com/sports/golf/pga-tour-liv-golf-merger-saudi-arabia-4414bd66?st=2m37t90af7ga6mn&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink

The Current is back on the beach at Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity to give a look into the top talks from the first day of the festival. Plus Spotify's head of sales in EMEA, Rak Patel, joins the show to talk about creativity and brand connection.

To read the full stories included in this episode:

1. The Black Lives Matter movement helped drive advertisers’ DEI efforts. How far have we come? https://bit.ly/44dsWcx
2. Bud Light's Struggles Have Been a ‘wake-up call,’ says AB InBev CMO at Cannes https://bit.ly/3qJOIpC
3. Omnicom Group to Debut Tool Using Generative AI for Advertising Employees https://bit.ly/46pNBfk

It’s upfronts week, with many of the big TV networks, from Fox to Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery and NBCUniversal hosting their annual presentations. Streaming giants Netflix and Amazon are also joining the festivities.

Measurement is emerging as an important part of this upfronts season, as advertisers are searching for more than just scale — they want to tie measurement and attribution data back to business results — meaning there is a bigger focus on the full loop from reach to conversion. Add in Nielsen, Comscore, VideoAmp and ISpot all jockeying to be the dominant measurement currency and there’s a lot to talk about.

Blockgraph co-founder and CEO Jason Manningham joins The Current Report to break it all down, plus how identity fits into the conversation and if there will ever be dominant walled gardens within the streaming space.

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To read the full stories included in this episode:

• Retail data is entering the upfronts as measurement gets more important: https://bit.ly/3U7a1gY
• How streaming consolidation could impact future upfront deals: https://bit.ly/4biGeZ1
• Future of TV Briefing: Upfront ad sellers prep performance-based pitches to address ad buyers’ ROI obsession: https://bit.ly/3UV0EkV
• NBA Hunger Games Enter the Fourth Quarter: https://bit.ly/4dCyCCk
• TV upfronts and Newfronts calendar: https://bit.ly/4dyoRVD

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The Current Report is our weekly news roundup of what’s happening in the world of digital media. We headline topical stories every edition — everything from connected TV to retail media networks to new initiatives around identity — offering our fresh take on why it's relevant for the marketing community. Subscribe: https://bit.ly/45HIaXH

_______

Each week, The Current gives you the most critical innovations in advertising that are happening on the open internet — identity, the future of TV, retail media, and beyond. Born inside The Trade Desk, The Current is a news platform dedicated to covering the latest in modern marketing — all from the front lines. Speaking to the marketing world’s most influential players, we explain what these seismic shifts mean, how they are happening, and why they are taking place: https://bit.ly/3SAM0wR