What’s old is new. Time is a flat circle. Trends are cyclical. Choose your idiom, because this week’s episode grapples with two topics that are back in style (so to speak): bot traffic and the tantalizing dream of scaling programmatic in-game advertising.

Alison Schiff, managing editor and expert in ad tech and data privacy, dives into the upheaval triggered by the IAB Tech Lab's proposal to move ad auctions to the server. She discusses the balance between consumer privacy and industry norms, humorously reflecting on journalistic mishaps. The conversation highlights the shifting dynamics in digital advertising, the critical role of trust, and the perception of data privacy as either a badge of honor or a baseline expectation. Schiff also addresses the complexities surrounding programmatic advertising and the industry's transparency challenges.

Alphonso shareholders won their lawsuit against LG Ads, clearing the way for an IPO. Then, as TikTok counts down the days until its stay of execution expires, Oracle might buy a minority stake.

Guest Brian Wieser, a principal at Madison and Wall and a respected voice in advertising, discusses the significant impacts of U.S. tariffs on the ad industry. He highlights how supply chain disruptions are forcing advertisers to rethink spending strategies. Alongside him, James Hercher from AdExchanger delves into Publicis' acquisition of Lotame, revealing how this move aims to strengthen client-consumer relationships in a rapidly evolving market. Expect insights on navigating ad tech transformations and the implications of rising production costs.

Anthony Vargas and James Herscher, both AdExchanger journalists with expertise in programmatic advertising, delve into the challenges digital media companies face in securing quality inventory amidst an influx of low-quality content. They explore the intricate definitions of 'premium' inventory and buyer preferences, emphasizing the effects of evolving technology. The duo also discusses Viant's strategic acquisition of Locker, highlighting its implications for data management and privacy compliance in a rapidly changing ad tech landscape.

In her last week at AdExchanger, Senior Editor Alyssa Boyle reflects on three years of change, and stasis, in the CTV space. Then, how Ozempic is changing the marketing world.

James Herscher, an AdExchanger journalist with deep insights into the ad tech landscape, discusses the ramifications of The Trade Desk's recent earnings miss. He highlights how this event has rattled the digital marketing world and its impact on stock performance. The conversation also touches on the rivalry between major players like Amazon and Google, and the challenges facing platforms like Reddit due to algorithm changes. Herscher explores how companies are adapting to AI and data privacy concerns while striving for effective audience targeting.

Krzysztof Franaszek, founder of Adalytics and a pioneer in digital marketing data analysis, dives deep into brand safety risks in advertising. He reveals shocking instances of ads appearing next to illegal content, stressing the complex failures behind these placements. The conversation covers the challenges of monitoring child sexual abuse materials and touches on the evolving role of AI in improving ad safety. Krzysztof also discusses the vital roles of DSPs and SSPs in safeguarding ads, urging advertisers to rethink their strategies in today's digital landscape.

The Google Chrome team is getting closer to deciding on its cookie consent mechanism. And  Paramount resolves its four-month standoff with Nielsen, as the mechanics behind currency change forever.

Chris Kane, CEO of Jounce Media, shares his expertise on the pressing transparency issues in CTV advertising. Alyssa Boyle and Anthony Vargas from AdExchanger join him to dissect the ongoing challenges advertisers face in accessing clear data. They highlight the frustrations around mislabeling in-stream video inventory and the need for ethical, standardized practices. The discussion navigates the complexities of video advertising formats and the responsibility of both buyers and publishers in achieving clarity and accountability in the ad tech landscape.