Daily Edition · Page 8

THE DAILY INDEX

Technology, AI, software, security, crypto and business

NEWS & TRENDS

TLDR Marketing

DIGITAL 2025: THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO THE GLOBAL STATE OF DIGITAL

Streaming dominates TV consumption, with 91.9% of internet users watching monthly, while traditional broadcast reaches 87.8%. Streaming accounts for 43.3% of viewing time, led by Saudi Arabia (54.8%), UAE (53.7%), and China (51.5%). Audio streaming is also strong, with 38.2% using music services weekly and younger users averaging nearly two hours daily. Paid subscriptions are rising, with 31.5% paying for video and 22.5% for music, particularly in high-income markets like Norway and Sweden.

9 SHOPIFY BLOG EXAMPLES YOU NEED TO SEE

This article shares examples of Shopify brands using content marketing to increase engagement. Gymshark produces long-form workout guides that establish authority and attract fitness enthusiasts. Stanley builds brand loyalty by aligning its blog with adventure-driven storytelling, positioning its products as part of memorable experiences. Ruggable optimizes its content strategy with clear blog categories, SEO-driven interior design advice, and seamless navigation to convert readers into buyers.

MARKETERS HAVE GREAT POTENTIAL BUT THEY ARE NOT BEING SUPPORTED ENOUGH

Over half of marketing professionals feel overwhelmed and undervalued, with nearly half of teams facing annual restructures driven by cost-cutting rather than strategy. As marketing is increasingly viewed as a discretionary expense, teams are pressured to do more with less. While automation and AI can boost efficiency, without clear strategic direction and leadership support, many will remain in a reactive, high-stress environment.

HOW TO USE DATA MORE STRATEGICALLY TO REACH AUDIENCES

Using audience insights to focus marketing on niche communities can be more effective than relying solely on Google, Meta, or LinkedIn ads. Identifying where audiences spend time enables more strategic outreach, as seen with podcasters and event organizers leveraging influencer networks over broad paid ads. Zero-click marketing, like Chartr's Reddit engagement, builds trust without requiring direct clicks. Balancing data with qualitative research and exploring underutilized channels can help maximize impact.

STEAM'S OVERLORDS STILL THINK IN-GAME ADS ARE FINE AS LONG AS THEY'RE "APPROPRIATE"

Valve updated its Steamworks policy to clarify that in-game ads are allowed if they fit the game's context but banned business models relying on paid advertising. Developers must remove forced ad-watching mechanics before selling on Steam and are encouraged to use single-purchase or microtransaction-based models instead. The policy permits real-world brands in games if they enhance immersion and have the necessary licenses, but prohibits rewarding players for engaging with ads. Past controversies, such as unskippable ads in NBA 2K21, show the challenges of balancing advertising and player experience.

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