Latest Marketing & Advertising News
Meta Overtakes Google in Digital Ad Revenue for First Time in 25 Years
Meta is projected to surpass Google in global digital ad revenue in 2026, with $243.46 billion (26.8% market share) versus Google's $239.54 billion (26.4%). Meta's 24.1% growth rate doubles Google's 11.9%, driven by Advantage+ and Reels. Social media now holds 40% of global digital ad spend.
IAB Reports $294.6 Billion in US Digital Ad Spend for 2025
The IAB highlights explosive growth: social media at $117.7 billion (32.6% YoY), programmatic at $162.4 billion (20.5% growth), digital video at $78 billion (25.4%), and commerce media at $63.4 billion (18%). These figures reshape budget allocations in the digital landscape. Programmatic growth signals rise of agentic AI buying.
Google Launches AI Mode, Rewriting SEO and Search Strategies
Google is rebuilding search with AI Mode, fundamentally changing how brands approach SEO and customer reach. This shift impacts how marketers optimize for discovery in an AI-driven world. Brands must adapt strategies to stay competitive.
Creator Marketing Evolves into Core Media Channel with Dedicated Budgets
Creator marketing has transitioned from tactical campaigns to a full media channel requiring its own budget line. This evolution reflects its growing role in brand strategies amid digital shifts. Marketers are urged to integrate it centrally.
eBay's AI-Driven Ad Strategy Generates $581 Million in Q1 Revenue
eBay reported $581 million in ad revenue last quarter, up 33% YoY, fueled by Promoted Listings, Expanded Halo Attribution, and Priority Campaign Strategy. AI 'Magical Listings' boosted new listings by over 50% via 30 million card scans. The platform shifted to pay-to-play models in 2026.
GameStop Builds Stake in eBay, Potential Takeover Bid by Late May 2026
GameStop is quietly accumulating eBay shares for a possible takeover bid as early as late May 2026, aligning with its push into collectibles where eBay leads. This comes amid eBay's aggressive ad and AI expansions.
UK Ad Spend Hits Record £46.7 Billion in 2025, Forecast to Reach £49.8 Billion in 2026
UK advertising grew 6.4% to £46.7 billion in 2025, with £12.9 billion in Q4; 2026 forecast at 6.6% growth to £49.8 billion. Momentum continues into 2027 at £52.6 billion.
Pinterest Launches Campaign Promoting Real Life Over Endless Scrolling
Pinterest's new brand campaign critiques constant online presence on other platforms, positioning itself as a path to authentic inspiration and action. It emphasizes living life beyond scrolling.
Iran Conflict Threatens $49.9 Billion Hit to Global Ad Growth in 2026
WARC estimates the Iran War could slash 2026 global ad growth from $124.2 billion to $74.2 billion due to market disruptions. This geopolitical risk reframes investment forecasts.
Gen Z Embraces AI in Shopping: 39% Usage, 85% Report Better Experience
39% of consumers, led by Gen Z, have used AI for online shopping in early 2026, with 85% noting improved experiences. This trend underscores AI's rising role in marketing personalization.
Top Retail Ad Channels by ROI: Magazines Lead at 9.6x
Retail brands' top ROI channels include magazine/newspaper ads (9.6x), partnerships (8.9x), retargeting (7.3x), events (6.1x), and radio/digital audio (6x). TV, PPC, and VOD follow closely, guiding budget priorities.
3AF Unveils New Logo and Vision at 2026 May Summit
The Asian American Advertising Federation's May 2026 Summit previews a refreshed logo, vision, and mission to drive growth and elevate the industry. Sessions focus on future strategies.