Social media becomes engine for big buys: Platforms’ role in expensive transactions like travel and cars is rising.

Platforms must brace for regulation of algorithmic content: EU regulators are widening their net, which could restrict advertisers’ ability to target teens.

Sephora-related content resonated best with Gen Z consumers, but legacy brands like Neutrogena struggled to maintain relevance. Cultural moments like Pride and back-to-school drove Q3 UGC, while video tutorials on platforms like TikTok provide more effective ways for brands to connect with Gen Z. Here are four insights into how beauty brand-related, UGC performed among Gen Z consumers in Q3, according to research firm dcdx’s Gen Z's Top 50 Beauty Brands Report Q3 2024.

Spending in the US affiliate marketing ecosystem will exceed $10 billion for the first time in 2024. But content distribution changes, advertiser focus on first-party data, and shifting consumer behavior will push the channel into a new phase.

American Eagle sues Amazon for trademark infringement in fight against product dupes, knockoffs: The retailer accused the ecommerce giant of unauthorized use of its “Aerie” trademarks, which it said helped drive traffic and sales on the marketplace at American Eagle’s expense.

YouTube’s record label clash echoes TikTok-UMG feud: Major artists are unavailable on YouTube and its music platform as a deal deadline approaches.

TikTok, World Health Organization join forces to combat medical misinformation: After being scrutinized for the impact that misinformation on its platform has had on younger users, TikTok is taking a page out of YouTube’s book to fight it.

Marketers should play to social media’s positive traits: Gen Z adults have mixed feelings about social media use that can inform marketing strategies.

YouTube is doubling down on social connectivity and AI tools to stay competitive with rivals like TikTok and Meta. The platform’s new suite of features introduced last week include Communities, a fan’s ability to boost creators’ videos, generative AI (genAI) video tools, and gifting. These innovations mimic what’s working on other social media platforms as YouTube seeks to remain social even as it builds out its connected TV business.

A third (33%) of US influencers believe that if TikTok is sold or banned in the US next year, Facebook Reels will become the next major player in short-form video, per August 2024 data by First Insight. Instagram Reels is close, at 32%.

In part two of this two-part podcast episode, we discuss why China and ByteDance might blink and sell TikTok to a US company, why a law around children's online safety will get passed, and what will happen if Dish Network and DirecTV merge. Tune in to the discussion with host Marcus Johnson, and analysts Ross Benes, Evelyn Mitchell, and Max Willens.

Facebook and YouTube dominate, but the rise of unverified stories poses a challenge to credible reporting.

Creator economy wars heat up: TikTok launches new subscriptions, while Patreon’s Autopilot tool boosts fan conversion rates.

TikTok Shop is Gen Z’s new favorite gifting destination: More than half plan to make a purchase on the platform this holiday season, lured by the prospect of a good deal.

Platforms owners like Meta and Snap face scrutiny over data exploitation and child privacy laws. Regulatory action could disrupt their ad-based profits.

On today's podcast episode, we discuss what would happen if TikTok is (or isn’t) banned in America, what marketers get most wrong about consumers, will AI smartphones be impactful right out of the gate, will most companies eventually ask employees to be in the office five days a week, the world's favorite drinks, and more. Tune in to the discussion with our analysts Blake Droesch, Bill Fisher, and Carina Perkins.

Social shoppers find inspiration for their purchases from many different types of content, but none more so than creator, influencer, or celebrity influencer content.

Social media usage is increasing for all generations, but most quickly for Gen Z. This year, US Gen Z social media usage will grow 7.7% versus 1.8% for the general population’s, according to our May 2024 forecast.

New AI tools promise to boost Shorts content, but a flood of formulaic videos could make creators disappear in the algorithm noise.

New privacy features include parental control, content filtering, and restricted messaging to protect minors and address growing concerns.