Meet the Netflix ads suite, set to launch April 1
Netflix is set to launch its proprietary advertising platform, the “Netflix Ad Suite,” on April 1, as announced by Advertising VP Nicolle Pangis. This initiative aims to enhance advertisers’ experience by providing more control and transparency in their campaigns. The suite will integrate with major programmatic partners, including The Trade Desk, Google’s DV360, and Magnite, allowing advertisers to access Netflix’s inventory through these platforms. Read more from AdExchanger.
Majority of media agency professionals plan to increase CTV spending
According to a November 2024 Pixability survey, 58% of U.S. media agency professionals plan to increase their connected TV (CTV) investments, while 32% intend to decrease spending on linear TV. This shift aligns with forecasts predicting a 15.8% growth in CTV ad spending in 2025, reaching $33.4 billion. Additionally, it’s projected that nearly 70% of the U.S. population will be CTV users this year. Read more from eMarketer.
Oracle considers U.S. TikTok deal amid security concerns
Oracle is reportedly in advanced discussions with the White House to oversee TikTok’s U.S. operations, aiming to address national security concerns. The proposed arrangement would involve Oracle managing U.S. user data to prevent potential access by the Chinese government. This development comes as TikTok faces a potential U.S. ban unless its parent company, ByteDance, divests its ownership. The deadline for reaching a resolution is April 5. Read more from MediaDailyNews.
Bing pushes ad-heavy search results with 7+ sponsored listings
Microsoft Bing is testing a new search results format featuring at least seven paid advertisements on the first page, significantly reducing the visibility of organic results. Users have reported seeing only one or two organic listings amidst numerous ads. This shift could intensify competition among advertisers for limited ad slots, potentially increasing cost-per-click rates as businesses strive for visibility. Read more from Search Engine Land.
Dodgers-Cubs season opener breaks viewership records in Japan
The 2025 MLB Tokyo Series opener between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs drew over 25 million viewers in Japan, accounting for approximately 20% of the country’s population. This marks the highest viewership for an MLB game in Japan, surpassing previous records. Japanese stars like Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto on the Dodgers, and Shota Imanaga on the Cubs, help to drive viewership interest in Japan. Read more from The Big Lead.
