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Ad Revenue Should Stabilize for Media Companies in 2025

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Ad Revenue Should Stabilize for Media Companies in 2025

The New York Liberty celebrate after winning the 2024 WNBA Championship against the Minnesota Lynx during Game 5 of the 2024 WNBA Finals on October 20, 2024 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The advertising market has positive momentum going into 2025, especially for media companies with sports rights and tentpole live programming.

Stability in the Market

According to media executives, the industry expects stability in the market, with normalization in advertising spending and a focus on sports and live events. With the election uncertainty resolved, marketers are feeling more confident, leading to increased advertising budgets.

Normalization is the right way to say it with the advertising market," said Mark Marshall, NBCUniversal’s chairman of global advertising and partnerships. With the election settled, a lot of companies feel the uncertainty over that has gone away."

Despite the uptick in ad revenue following the election and the forecast stability, Natalie Bastian, global chief marketing officer at Teads, said she expects a lot of the same trends.

Sports and Live Events Reign Supreme

Sports and live events, such as awards shows, reigned supreme in conversations with media executives. The end of the uncertainty surrounding the election has helped the outlook improve, they said.

With the election uncertainty resolved, companies are focusing on sports and live events, as these formats offer the most engaged audiences. As a result, media companies with sports rights are in high demand, and companies are willing to pay hefty sums for the rights to games.

Linear Importance

While streaming services are increasing their sports rights, linear TV’s audience still significantly outpaces streaming. Both Marshall and Amy Leifer, DirecTV Advertising’s chief ad sales officer, emphasized that traditional TV is still important in discussions with advertisers, especially when it comes to sports.

A view of a ESPN cameraman during the game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Cincinnati Bengals on December 4, 2023 at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fl.

David Rosenblum | Icon Sportswire | Getty Images

"There’s still declines in linear TV in a lot of markets, but not in all markets," said Kate Scott-Dawkins, GroupM’s global president of business intelligence.

Conclusion

The advertising market is expected to stabilize in 2025, with a focus on sports and live events. As media companies, streaming services, and advertisers converge on these formats, the opportunity for growth increases. With sports rights and linear TV still prominent in the media landscape, this trend is unlikely to change soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is expected to happen with the advertising market in 2025?
A: The market is expected to stabilize, with a focus on sports and live events.

Q: Why are sports and live events important?
A: Sports and live events offer the most engaged audiences and are a significant draw for media companies and advertisers.

Q: Is linear TV still important in discussions with advertisers?
A: Yes, traditional TV is still important, especially when it comes to sports.

Q: What are the key players in the market?
A: Major media companies, streaming services, and advertising agencies are all key players in the market.

Q: Is there growth opportunity in the market?
A: Yes, as media companies, streaming services, and advertisers continue to converge on sports and live events, opportunities for growth and increased revenue emerge.

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Global Trends and Politics

Disney Q2 2025 Earnings

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Disney Q2 2025 Earnings

Introduction to Disney’s Earnings Report

Disney will report its fiscal second-quarter earnings before the bell on Wednesday, and Wall Street will be paying close attention to the state of its streaming and theme parks businesses. Investors will also be listening for any details on the search for CEO Bob Iger’s successor.

Expected Earnings and Revenue

Here is what Wall Street expects Disney to report on Wednesday, according to analysts polled by LSEG:

  • Earnings per share: $1.20
  • Revenue: $23.14 billion

Previous Quarter Performance

Last quarter, the company beat on the top and bottom lines, but revealed the beginnings of expected streaming subscriber losses at Disney+. Disney warned during its fiscal fourth-quarter report in November that it expected a "modest decline" in subscriptions during the December period. It told investors during February’s earnings report that it expected another "modest decline" in subscribers during its fiscal second quarter.

Streaming Subscriber Growth

The slowdown in streaming subscriber growth follows an increase in prices for its services last year. This decline is a significant area of focus for investors, as Disney+ has been a major driver of the company’s growth in recent years.

Theme Parks Performance

Eyes will also be on its experience segment, which includes theme parks. The division performed better than expected in the fiscal first-quarter, but travel experts have warned about waning international travelers and a potential traffic decrease as a result of President Donald Trump’s tariffs. Theme parks in the U.S. have generally experienced a slowdown in foot traffic following the post-Covid surge in attendance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Disney’s fiscal second-quarter earnings report will be closely watched by investors and analysts alike. The company’s streaming and theme parks businesses will be under scrutiny, and any updates on the search for CEO Bob Iger’s successor will be closely followed. As the company navigates a changing media landscape and shifting consumer behaviors, its ability to adapt and innovate will be key to its long-term success.

FAQs

Q: What are the expected earnings per share for Disney’s fiscal second quarter?
A: $1.20
Q: What is the expected revenue for Disney’s fiscal second quarter?
A: $23.14 billion
Q: Why is Disney experiencing a decline in streaming subscriber growth?
A: The decline in streaming subscriber growth follows an increase in prices for its services last year.
Q: What is the current state of Disney’s theme parks business?
A: The division performed better than expected in the fiscal first-quarter, but travel experts have warned about waning international travelers and a potential traffic decrease as a result of President Donald Trump’s tariffs.
Q: Who is Disney’s current CEO, and what is the status of the search for his successor?
A: Disney’s current CEO is Bob Iger, and the search for his successor is ongoing, with investors expecting updates on the process during the earnings report.

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Global Trends and Politics

From Silence to Dialogue: How to Encourage Open Communication in a Polarized Workplace

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From Silence to Dialogue: How to Encourage Open Communication in a Polarized Workplace

As the political landscape continues to shift, workplaces are feeling the impact, with politics increasingly dividing employees. In this climate, fostering open communication is crucial for maintaining a positive and productive work environment. The challenge lies in encouraging employees to express themselves freely, without fear of judgment or retribution.

The Importance of Open Communication

Open communication is the foundation of a healthy workplace, allowing employees to share ideas, address concerns, and work collaboratively towards common goals. When employees feel comfortable expressing themselves, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and committed to their work. However, in a polarized workplace, open communication can be a daunting task.

Breaking Down Barriers

To encourage open communication, it’s essential to break down barriers that may be preventing employees from speaking up. This can include creating a safe and respectful environment, where employees feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and opinions without fear of judgment or retribution. Building trust is critical in this process, as employees need to feel confident that their voices will be heard and valued.

Strategies for Encouraging Open Communication

So, how can organizations encourage open communication in a polarized workplace? One approach is to establish clear communication channels, such as regular town hall meetings, anonymous feedback mechanisms, or one-on-one check-ins with managers. These channels provide employees with opportunities to share their thoughts and concerns, and help to ensure that their voices are heard.

Leading by Example

Leaders play a critical role in fostering open communication, as they set the tone for the rest of the organization. By modeling open and transparent behavior, leaders can encourage employees to do the same. This includes being approachable, listening actively, and responding thoughtfully to employee concerns.

Addressing Conflict

In a polarized workplace, conflict is inevitable. However, by addressing conflict in a constructive manner, organizations can actually strengthen relationships and improve communication. This involves active listening, remaining calm and composed, and focusing on finding solutions rather than placing blame.

Case Studies

Several organizations have successfully encouraged open communication in their workplaces, despite the challenges posed by polarization. For example, Cisco Systems has implemented a range of initiatives to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, including employee resource groups and unconscious bias training. Similarly, Patreon has established a culture of open communication, with regular town hall meetings and anonymous feedback mechanisms.

Lessons Learned

These organizations offer valuable lessons for other companies seeking to encourage open communication. First, it’s essential to create a sense of psychological safety, where employees feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and opinions. Second, organizations must be willing to listen and respond to employee concerns, rather than simply paying lip service to open communication.

Overcoming Challenges

Encouraging open communication in a polarized workplace is not without its challenges. One of the most significant hurdles is managing conflicting opinions and perspectives. This requires a nuanced approach, one that balances the need for open communication with the need to maintain a respectful and inclusive work environment.

Creating a Culture of Respect

To overcome this challenge, organizations must create a culture of respect, where employees feel valued and appreciated regardless of their background or perspective. This involves promoting diversity and inclusion, as well as addressing microaggressions and other forms of subtle bias.

Conclusion

In conclusion, encouraging open communication in a polarized workplace requires a thoughtful and multi-faceted approach. By creating a safe and respectful environment, establishing clear communication channels, and leading by example, organizations can foster a culture of open communication and collaboration. While there are challenges to be overcome, the benefits of open communication – including increased employee engagement, improved collaboration, and enhanced creativity – make it an effort well worth undertaking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of open communication in the workplace?

The benefits of open communication in the workplace include increased employee engagement, improved collaboration, and enhanced creativity. Open communication also helps to build trust, resolve conflicts, and promote a culture of respect and inclusivity.

How can leaders encourage open communication in a polarized workplace?

Leaders can encourage open communication by modeling open and transparent behavior, establishing clear communication channels, and creating a safe and respectful environment. They must also be willing to listen and respond to employee concerns, and address conflict in a constructive manner.

What role does diversity and inclusion play in encouraging open communication?

Diversity and inclusion play a critical role in encouraging open communication, as they help to create a culture of respect and inclusivity. By promoting diversity and addressing microaggressions and other forms of subtle bias, organizations can ensure that all employees feel valued and appreciated, and are therefore more likely to speak up and share their thoughts and opinions.

How can organizations measure the success of their open communication initiatives?

Organizations can measure the success of their open communication initiatives by tracking employee engagement, retention, and satisfaction. They can also monitor the number of employee suggestions and ideas submitted, as well as the number of conflicts resolved through open communication. Regular surveys and feedback mechanisms can also help to gauge the effectiveness of open communication initiatives.

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Global Trends and Politics

Mattel Pushes Back on Tariff Goals: No Plans to Bring Toy Manufacturing to U.S.

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Mattel Pushes Back on Tariff Goals: No Plans to Bring Toy Manufacturing to U.S.

One of the goals of President Donald Trump’s 145% tariffs against China is to drive manufacturing back to America. But the odds of that are low, at least when it comes to toys.

The View from Mattel

“We don’t see that happening,” Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz said on CNBC’s “Squawk Box” on Tuesday, less than a day after the company withdrew annual financial targets. “We need to remember that a significant part of toy creation happens in America,” he said. “Design, development, product engineering, brand management all happens in America. Making product, producing product in other countries, allows us to create quality products at affordable price points.”

Diversification of Manufacturing

Mattel has been diversifying its global manufacturing for nearly a decade in an effort to reduce its dependence on China. By the end of the year, less than 40% of Mattel’s product will be sourced from the country. Kreiz noted that in two years, no country will represent more than 25% of Mattel’s sourcing.

Mitigating the Effects of Tariffs

In the meantime, Mattel is taking mitigating actions to fully offset costs associated with Trump’s trade war with China, including raising prices in the U.S., while aiming to keep the cost of many toys low. The company is expecting to keep between 40% and 50% of its products under $20. “This is something we are committed to do,” Kreiz said. “To continue to create quality product and find the right balance of price and value all in the service of the consumer.”

Market Impact

Since the tariffs were announced on April 2, Mattel’s stock is down about 19%.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the tariffs imposed by President Trump aim to drive manufacturing back to the United States, companies like Mattel do not foresee a significant shift in their manufacturing base. Instead, they are diversifying their global manufacturing and taking steps to mitigate the effects of the tariffs, aiming to maintain affordable prices for consumers.

FAQs

Q: What is the goal of President Trump’s tariffs against China?

A: One of the goals is to drive manufacturing back to America.

Q: Does Mattel expect manufacturing to return to the US?

A: No, Mattel does not see that happening, citing the need for affordable price points and the fact that significant parts of toy creation already happen in America.

Q: How is Mattel responding to the tariffs?

A: Mattel is diversifying its global manufacturing, raising prices in the US, and aiming to keep many toys under $20 to mitigate the effects of the tariffs.

Q: How has Mattel’s stock been affected by the tariffs?

A: Mattel’s stock is down about 19% since the tariffs were announced on April 2.

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