The Big Story

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.

TikTok was granted a 75-day stay of execution this week. We discuss what's next for the social media platform, why it was classified as a threat to national security – and how advertisers are responding.

2025 M&A is off with a bang. T-Mobile bought Vistar Media. The Trade Desk bought Sincera. With a special guest from LUMA Partners, Conor McKenna, we explore the rationale for these ad tech acquisitions.

In this episode, Dave Meeker, Monk's EVP and Head of AI Innovation, shares insights on the cutting-edge intersection of AI and advertising, recorded live from CES. He discusses the transformative power of AI in marketing, emphasizing responsible integration and hyper-personalization. The conversation dives into AI's role in user experience research and the balance between efficiency and human creativity. Meeker also explores how smart home devices are reshaping advertising and highlights the importance of transparency and privacy in AI technologies.

To close out the year, The Big Story team is posting one of our favorite AdExchanger Talks episodes of 2024. Who better to give her take on programamtic transparency than an ex-FBI agent? Listen to this interview with Sherine Ebadi, Kroll managing director of investigations, who worked on the ANA's transparency report.