The Intelligence from The Economist cover image

The Intelligence from The Economist

Swat off the press: Meta v Canada’s news ploy

May 17, 2024
Tom Wainwright, tech and media editor at The Economist, discusses the fallout from Meta's news ban in Canada, revealing how it has inadvertently harmed publishers instead of helping them. Catherine Nixie, the magazine's British correspondent, celebrates Shirley Conran's legacy, highlighting how her bold writings empowered women in various aspects of life. They also compare American and European work cultures, emphasizing different attitudes towards work-life balance and time off. Tune in for a blend of tech insights and literary tributes!
23:40

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Canada's law to make social media pay for news links harmed publishers by reducing web traffic.
  • News outlets are adapting to engage audiences through alternative means like newsletters and apps.

Deep dives

Impact on Canadian News Outlets and Meta

Canada implemented a law requiring social media giants like Facebook to pay news outlets for sharing their links. However, Meta, which owns Facebook, refused to comply, leading to Canadian news sites being blocked on the platform. This move has significantly reduced web traffic for many publishers, impacting smaller sites like Gugukwer's News, which focuses on indigenous stories.

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