Bud Light has been embroiled in controversy since it collaborated with trans influencer Dylan Mulvaney. This has come from right-wing conservatives and a left-wing counter-reaction who believe the brand hasn’t supported the actress enough amid the turmoil.

Bud Light turmoil

Following an influencer trip to the Shein factory, influencer DaniDMC has terminated her contract with the fast-fashion giant due to social media uproar.

Shein influencers

The North Face has chosen to deepen its commitment to LGBTQ+ visibility despite the right-wing backlash, doubling down in a manner meant to build credibility with its core audience.

The North Face LGBTQ+ support

Coca-Cola’s sponsorship of the annual UN climate conference has motivated critics to highlight the eco-shortcomings of “the world’s top polluter.” 

Coca-Cola COP27 sponsorship

Taking a cue from Patagonia, Armedangels’ campaign claims “sustainable products don’t exist,” tapping into the de-influencing ethos and radical honesty to build credibility. 

Armedangels drops sustainability claims

Alex Cooper's Unwell Hydration drink has drawn mixed reactions, with fans praising her ambition but questioning its authenticity. The backlash highlights how audiences are growing skeptical of celebrity-endorsed products perceived as opportunistic or detached from genuine values.

Alex Cooper's drink ignites celeb endorsement skepticism

South Koreans are bringing K-pop to impeachment protests in the wake of President Yoon Suk-yeol’s martial law declaration. Fandoms are looking for outlets for autonomous expression that don’t always align neatly with corporate intentions, and brands might have to get comfortable with that.

Young Koreans turn protests into mass K-pop concerts

A Powerade initiative seeks to redefine brand-athlete partnerships by placing importance on holistic wellbeing and the power of breaks. Featuring top athletes, the bold campaign aligns with a cultural shift toward people demanding that brands ‘show up’ with purpose-driven actions.

Powerade cracks 'The Athletes Code' to mental health

Spotify’s 2024 Wrapped campaign has faced significant criticism from users, marking a departure from the typical hype. The controversy underscores the growing demand for culturally aware, data-savvy content that amplifies user experiences authentically – and the backlash potential around AI.

Music fans call out AI fails in Spotify's 2024 Wrapped 

Spotify users expressed frustration over the delayed release of its annual personalised year-in-review, “Wrapped.” A fusion of insights and entertainment, Wrapped is hotly anticipated each year, offering music-lovers a chance to share their preferences and listening habits with the world.

Spotify Wrapped wait sparks online frenzy 

Jaguar’s rebrand, entitled 'Copy Nothing', has ignited controversy for featuring no cars, straying from its luxury heritage, and appearing 'too woke'. Inadvertently, the brand is now at the centre of debates around diversity and climate change, clashing with audience expectations.

Jaguar’s rebrand sparks brand identity cultural debate

Bottega Veneta has launched a capsule collection inspired by the work of beloved American author-illustrator Richard Scarry. Offering a keyring belt, cushion, and a woven intrecciato leather notebook, the brand's exploration of childhood wonder and awe feeds into the comforting appeal of nostalgia.

Bottega harnesses nostalgia for capsule collection

India has become known as the cancer capital of the world, with breast cancer being the most common. To improve early diagnoses and encourage proper treatment, Niramai helps make screening more secure and personal with AI and thermal imaging, offering non-invasive, radiation-free check-ups for women.

How Niramai removes check-up taboos for Indian women

Research has revealed that teens in the US are struggling to identify false information online. It highlights the pressing need to help young people become discerning consumers of information, equipping them with the skills to navigate an increasingly complex media landscape.

US teens are vulnerable to conspiracy theories

More than ever, South Koreans are seeking holiday accommodation that’s a destination in itself. With hotels in South Korea rebounding from the pandemic, Koreans are also evolving their definitions of ‘rest,’ ‘luxury,’ and ‘hospitality,’ prompting local tourism to adapt too.

How South Korean hotels are adapting to attract visitors

A Graham Norton Show clip in which Saoirse Ronan calls out Paul Mescal and Eddie Redmayne has gone viral, sparking dialogue around women’s safety and male privilege. As feminist discourse gains more mainstream exposure, male celebrities face higher expectations to be authentic allies.

Viral Saoirse Ronan clip sparks male privilege debate

The Australian Government plans to ban social media for under-16s, citing physical and mental health risks. With social media consumption showing no signs of slowing globally and young people feeling deeply affected by platforms, there's a growing need for solutions to protect youth online.

Australia's under-16 social media ban sparks debate

Smile 2 is letting horror fans watch the opening scene for free online – but the video only plays if users smile for the camera while watching. The move has sparked backlash, highlighting growing concerns about data practices and the need for transparency in an era of rapid AI development.

Smile 2 campaign raises concerns about data collection

The insurance industry has a reputation for being traditional and low-interaction. With Youi’s promises of “you-shaped” plans, products, and brand partnerships, Australian Gen Y and Z can build their financial confidence in ways that resonate with their vibrant, digital-first lifestyles.

How Youi ensures financial confidence for young Aussies

The fifth edition of Homobloc reflects the rise of large-scale queer festivals that celebrate a traditionally underground culture. Yet its expansion has sparked some criticism, highlighting the desire for its grassroots values to be preserved as LGBTQ+ culture becomes more mainstream.

Large-scale queer events offer authentic representation

In an era of declining consumer trust, an increasing number of brands are embracing strategic self-deprecation to help cut through noise. To better understand how a self-aware approach can help win over sceptical audiences, Canvas8 spoke to consumer psychologist, Vaishnavi Kale.

Who, Me?! The science of self-deprecation

Spriggy empowers Aussie kids to master money skills via gamified tools that make learning how to save and spend more fun. Targeting ages six to 17, it blends interactive lessons with real-world tasks. But it faces a key challenge: can it keep users safe and win parents' trust in the digital world?

Why Spriggy banks on practical play for Aussie Gen Alphas

Netflix has dropped a trailer for ‘Buy Now! The Shopping Conspiracy’, which aims to zero in on the ethical and environmental impacts of overconsumption. As critical spending habits persist following the cost of living crisis, the film taps emerging desires to opt out of harmful consumption cycles.

Netflix documentary taps anti-consumerist sentiments

Uncertain economic conditions are causing inflation to hike up insurance costs and premiums. In response, Aussie consumers want tech-informed policies and products aligned with the current financial situation. What does this mean? Accessible and affordable coverage.

Why Australians want insurance to reflect their real-life needs

Kakao Mobility is the dominant force in South Korea's ride-hailing market, achieving a nearly 90% share. With the introduction of features such as robot delivery and a tourist-friendly app, it’s harnessing tech to maximise convenience – setting a new standard for transport apps in the process.

How Kakao streamlines mobility for hustling Koreans

Fiverr has launched a campaign to remind people that AI tools are only as good as the creatives using them. Encouraging professionals to focus on outcomes rather than the means used to achieve them, it highlights the enduring importance of human expertise in an increasingly AI-driven world.

Fiverr musical seeks to quell fears about using AI

Donald Trump has put in a shift at a McDonald's in Pennsylvania as part of his campaign trail. With people's personal finances a key influencer in deciding who they'll vote for in the US election, both nominees are trying to appeal to working class voters and show they understand their experiences. 

Trump's McDonald's shift targets working class voters

Despite the controversy, the National Football League has announced its plans to extend its ongoing relationship with Roc Nation at the Super Bowl Halftime Show. The relationship between fans and artists is fragmenting, with the former demanding meaningful connection and shared values.

NFL extends Roc Nation deal amid fan-artist decline

The Kamala Harris campaign has launched a controversial ad targeting Black male voters, using a dating game show format to encourage voting. Though part of a broader strategy to address declining enthusiasm among this crucial demographic, critics argue it's patronizing and alienating.

Kamala Harris campaign ad sparks backlash

Glossier has launched a series of billboard and digital ads urging voter registration in key swing states ahead of the US election. As it becomes increasingly difficult for brands to dodge the crossfire of polarization, the campaign makes a case for doubling down on a clear brand purpose.

Glossier reaffirms brand politics in pre-election push

The charity Girlguiding has unveiled a campaign highlighting gender stereotypes and AI's role in perpetuating some of them. With increased awareness of gender stereotypes in everyday life, the campaign looks to visually inspire girls, showing them that they can truly do anything.

Girlguiding ad challenges AI-enforced gender biases

The stock of gaming platform Roblox has fallen in light of allegations that it has not done enough to protect children using it. With Gen Z and Gen Alpha spending more time per day on Roblox than any other platform, their safety hinges on how Roblox responds to these accusations.

Roblox stock falls amid safety lapse allegations

For over 157 years, Arnott’s has been central to snacking Down Under, offering everything from Taylor Swift-inspired Tim Tams to the exclusive Yo-Yos of the south. As Australians embrace more snack-focused eating habits, how is Arnott’s reinforcing its prized place in the nation's pantry?

How Arnott’s defines Aussies' love for snacking moments

Social search engine Diem is designed to empower women and nonbinary people by bridging the gender information and disinformation gap. Combining AI-driven insights with community-driven conversations, Diem is creating a trusted, personalized space for candid, essential discussions.

How Diem closes the gender information gap via community

Italy’s antitrust agency is investigating the fast-fashion retailer over misleading sustainability claims on their website. As people feel they're shouldering the burden of climate change, they’re increasingly calling for government action that forces companies to change their behaviour.

Italy investigates SHEIN for greenwashing

Founded by former Obama aides, Crooked Media is leveraging its podcast network to encourage political engagement and support for electoral races. With declining trust in government and political exhaustion rising among Americans, Crooked Media aims to reinvigorate democratic participation.

How Crooked Media reengages US voters through podcasts

Little Free Library's interactive map details US book bans by state and county, encouraging users to share these books via library boxes across the US to support other readers' access to restricted books. People are increasingly distrusting institutions, and brands can fill the gap.

Digital map launched for US readers to find banned books

In a viral letter, the mother of a deceased EY India employee has accused the firm of driving her daughter to death by overwork. The controversy has thrust the country’s brutal workplace culture into the spotlight, and people are calling for meaningful brand actions to put employee wellbeing first. 

Indians demand accountability on EY overwork case

French fans of football club Olympique de Marseille lambasted Pernod Ricard for striking a global deal with rivals Paris Saint-Germain. The move highlights how, within an intensifying local-first landscape, brands are challenged to act with awareness of local sensitivities.  

Pernod Ricard’s PSG partnership draws ire from local fans

Beauty creator Golloria George has lauded Rhode founder Hailey Bieber for swiftly addressing her criticisms about the brand’s lack of inclusive formulations for its blush line. The viral exchange highlights the loyalty and trust pay-offs when brands pass the mic and listen with intention.

Rhode’s inclusion boost helps beauty buffs feel heard

Visa has announced an initiative to help boost consumer protection when people pay bills by bank transfer. As concerns over financial fraud with digital and online banking increase, the enhanced security measures are set to give consumers greater control and protection over how they pay.

Visa to launch enhanced consumer payment protections

Y2K high-street darling Abercrombie and Fitch is in the midst of a subtle post-cancellation renaissance by dint of practical, high-quality clothing, inclusive sizing, and influencer word-of-mouth. Its return to form has resonated with Brits looking for comfort and nostalgia in their fashion choices.

How Abercrombie & Fitch won back Gen Y with classic fits

TikTok creators are taking part in debates on the platform in the run-up to the US presidential election. These ‘political battlers’ are building new modes for political engagement and making up to $7000 a month through virtual gifts, but concerns remain about moderation and misinformation.

'Political battlers’ mix democracy with entertainment

Roblox and Distrokid have struck a new deal to make indie artists' music available on the gaming platform – but they won’t be paid any money for their music’s use. The move raises important questions about artist rights and the future of music licensing on interactive entertainment platforms.

Roblox x DistroKid deal sparks debates about artist rights

Research has found that most infant and toddler foods sold in Australia fail to meet the WHO’s nutritional standards. As young parents have to navigate an overwhelming information landscape, brand credibility and trust will factor into their purchase decisions more saliently than ever.

Aussie parents faced with misinformation on baby food

The singer’s music video is facing potential legal action for possible damage to the protected dunes of S’Espalmador in Spain. With ongoing shifts in artist-fan relationships, people are expecting their favourite artists to use their platform for social and environmental good.

Katy Perry’s comeback further mired by eco legal action

Clean Beauty Action Network (CBAN) has issued an open letter to the FDA calling for a ban on toxic products in hair relaxers. As people adopt a holistic approach to hair care routines, they want brands to be transparent about product materials and create products made with their needs in mind.

Toxic materials in hair relaxer prompts urgent action

Sinéad O’Dwyer’s SS25 showcase at Copenhagen Fashion Week has made headlines for its boundary-pushing commitment to equity on the runway. As inclusion efforts seem to have taken a backseat in the fashion world, the brand offers a blueprint on how to resonate with representation-hungry customers.

Sinéad O’Dwyer moves the needle on inclusive fashion

In 2024, Australians will navigate the balance between their deeply held values and economic realities. While their decisions mirror their desire for societal change, the cost of living crisis has shifted priorities. How do these dual realities shape people’s lives and decisions amid trying times?

A Cultural Snapshot of Australia: 2024

The user base for ingredient scanning app Yuka is growing, but it’s attracting criticism around its reliability. As the wellness boom continues, health buffs are turning to alternative sources of authority, but there’s a need for brands to foreground a balanced, science-backed approach.

Yuka app gains traction with health-conscious shoppers

Ahead of the Global Plastics Treaty negotiations, Greenpeace has launched a campaign calling out global leaders complicit in plastic pollution. People are searching for ways to streamline their recycling habits, and brands can stand out by highlighting the importance of collective participation.

Greenpeace spotlights urgency of collective action

Ahead of the US elections, HBCUs have embarked on a ten-stop tour to educate and mobilize young, ethnically diverse voters. As people increasingly lose trust in traditional authorities, brands can earn trust and stand out by highlighting the power of organizing on a local, grassroots level.

HBCU’s campus tours aim to drive youth civic engagement

For its soft representation of gay dating, Netflix’s The Boyfriend took the world by storm. Its nuanced layers of representation – from championing alternative lifestyles to reimagining the dating scene in Japan – easily enamoured not just the Japanese public but singles across the globe.

How The Boyfriend gently breaks barriers for Japan’s gay men

Age Concern New Zealand and ANZ have launched a scam prevention campaign featuring American crime drama series CHiPs. The ad reimagines the series to resonate with older audiences, who are typically targeted by scammers, providing them with the tools and confidence to protect themselves from fraud.

ANZ campaign prompts Boomers to watch out for scammers

Nigerian creators are filming charitable acts in the hunt for online views, sparking debate on the ethics of profiting from philanthropy. With 'stunt philanthropy' dividing opinion, it's crucial to understand this new landscape to protect trust in charitable giving. 

'Stunt philanthropy' raises issues around gamified giving

Anti-immigration violence in the UK has significantly impacted high streets, with local small businesses bearing the brunt of the damage. In the face of fragmentation, brands have the opportunity to make their values clear and help local communities repair and heal their streets. 

Far-right riots highlight need to rebuild community

Running clubs in the Philippines have given fitness enthusiasts safe spaces and a venue to connect. Brands across varied industries have begun to align with club interests, supporting them while positioning themselves to ride the massively growing participation and interest in the sport.

How Filipino running clubs connect brands and their audience

Jewellery brand Paspaley is a legend in the pearl industry and is responsible for responsibly producing some of the world’s rarest and most expensive pearls. The brand’s success can be attributed to its focus on using rarity to appeal to the 1% while delivering on its promise of ethical practices.

Why Paspaley pearls became a natural luxury for Aussies

After witnessing older generations being let down by traditional career paths and ideas of success, Gen Alphas feel more inclined to pursue their dreams. To support them, Yeo’s campaign draws on the motivational stories of three local teens who chose to stick to their own passions.




Yeo’s campaign taps into Gen Alpha’s career aspirations

Fast fashion giant SHEIN will open its first pop-up in Johannesburg, offering audiences serendipitous encounters with fellow brand fans. Even as digital-first brands nurture digital communities, the power of IRL activations offers a chance for deeper engagement and brand discovery.

SHEIN hosts curated exhibition pop-up to court fans IRL

As much as Aussies want to cut back on fast fashion purchases, living costs make the issue unavoidable. This pattern is why circular fashion brand Citizen Wolf is using AI to cut back on the price of lasting, personalised clothes, as it lends a hand to solving Australia’s textile waste problem.

How Citizen Wolf tailors eco-fashion for Aussie budgets

HMD, Nokia's brand owner, is developing a child-friendly phone with internet capabilities but no social media access. With parents' concerns growing over the negative impact of smartphones on their children's development, brands are offering a more nuanced approach to safeguarding kids online.

New smartphone for kids has internet but no TikTok 

South Koreans have become more health-conscious post-pandemic. The demand for dietary and body fat reduction supplements – available in various forms – is rising. This shift is driven by innovative product offerings and the seamless shopping experiences of leading health and beauty retailers.

What's driving South Koreans' fascination with supplements?

Coffee culture in Australia was largely modelled after European cafes, but it has since developed its own style. However, new waves of Asian migrants, a growing cost of living crisis, and digital workers using cafes as offices are changing what it means to ‘grab a coffee’ in 2024.

Amid a financial crisis, how are Aussies getting their coffee fix?

How is the push for economic justice reshaping Democrats’ priorities? How are wellness practices and health hacking elevating their daily lives? Why are they wielding technology as a tool of activism? This Cultural Snapshot of Democrat voters unpacks the key behavioral shifts.

A Cultural Snapshot of Democrat voters: 2024-2025

Digital publisher Common is seeking to disrupt the toxicity of social media with a focus on good news, uplifting stories, and inspirational moments. The strategy to offer a refreshing break from the negativity of online news is already proving impactful, suggesting more opportunities for good news.

Common's good news strategy resonates with Australians

Wu Yanni is China’s top-ranked 100-metre hurdler, but she’s equally known for her sparkly makeup and outspoken interviews. Despite being in the constant limelight, she has earned both praise and controversy among brands and netizens, especially Chinese women who turn to her for beauty inspiration.

How Wu Yanni influences the track of Chinese sports fans

Telehealth provider Wisp has unveiled a provocative OOH campaign in New York that playfully draws attention to the censorship of women's bodies in US advertising. Featuring pixelated images of vaginas, the campaign seeks to normalize vaginal health rather than treat it as a taboo topic.

OOH campaign challenges the censorship of female bodies

According to many commentators, streaming services should have subsumed linear TV by now. However, they’re still playing catch up when it comes to share of viewership. Canvas8 spoke to Dr. Amanda Lotz about what the growth of streaming means for the future of TV for consumers.

Amanda Lotz on the future of streaming and broadcast TV

Etsy is implementing new product labels to clarify sellers' involvement, aiming to address concerns about marketplace infiltration by AI artists and resellers. However, the continued allowance of mass-produced items has led to scrutiny of the policy and Etsy's artisanal identity.

Etsy replaces its ‘handmade’ and ‘vintage’ labels

L’Oreal has partnered with biotechnology company Debut to replace and enhance conventionally sourced materials in its products. As people increasingly prioritize sustainability and value-driven choices, brands can build trust and drive change by authentically communicating green efforts.

L’Oreal reinforces dedication to sustainable materials

American singer and songwriter Chappell Roan has become one of 2024’s biggest breakout artists following her recent hit “Good Luck, Babe,” which has captured the spotlight. Her playful approach to identity and authentic lyrics have made her particularly popular among Gen Zers.

How Chappell Roan reflects Gen Z’s playful identities

Devin Halbal, better known on TikTok as Hal Baddie, went viral for adapting local cultures and languages. The impact of her viral ‘kudasai’ videos underscores the power of cross-cultural connection and the universal appeal of genuine, respectful curiosity, especially in conservative parts of Asia.

How Hal Baddie speaks to Asians’ need for representation

The world of livestreaming and influencers is generating billions in China. In this realm, Douyin superstar Crazy Little Brother Yang has over 100 million fans waiting on his funny content and authentic business ventures, which help both people and smaller businesses find reprieve during crises.

How Crazy Little Brother Yang humours China amid crisis

Slow Factory is a fast-growing digital platform that champions climate justice and human rights through engaging and intentional content. By centering marginalized voices and creating digestible news on social media, it has built a loyal community of people seeking radical change.

How Slow Factory articulates climate justice for Gen Z

An online study has found that humans are unable to tell authentic restaurant reviews from those generated by AI. AI-generated reviews present a challenge for the restaurant industry, with the potential for shady practices artificially inflating, or tainting people’s view of certain businesses.

AI-generated restaurant reviews mislead customers

Monzo has introduced innovative app-based security features to protect their customers' savings from thieves and fraudsters. With increased phone theft and fraud rates among Britons, people are seeking reassurance, and banks are working to protect their best interests.

Monzo launches tools to protect customers from fraud

From a record-setting Caitlin Clark to the first Olympics in history with gender parity women’s sport is dominating pop cultural headlines. Canvas8 spoke to Dr Lauren Burch, a senior lecturer in sport business, to find out whether fans of women’s and men’s sports differ.

It’s about performance! The science of women’s sports fandom

For a quiet luxury brand, Bottega Veneta (BV) dares to take risks through different strategies to engage young Chinese luxury lovers. In its new creative era, BV’s endorsement strategies with local celebrities, unique theme pop-up stores, and social media stunts help it transcend ‘guochao’ gimmicks.

How Bottega Veneta renews luxury experiences in China

JCDecaux scored a Grand Prix at the Cannes Lions for its 'Meet Marina Prieto' campaign, which aimed to show the impact of out-of-home (OOH) ads. The success of this campaign taps into the desire for authentic, lo-fi comms that disrupt perfection fatigue perpetuated through glossy ads.

'Meet Marina Prieto' shows the power of authentic OOH ads

The Dusty Knuckle is a London-based bakery with a social purpose at its core, offering training and mentorship to at-risk young people. This mission has been instrumental to its success, resonating with conscientious consumers and distinguishing itself from other top-tier bakeries.

How The Dusty Knuckle builds community through baking

With monthly sale days embedded into China’s e-commerce scene, brands might run out of ways to keep buyers interested. However, for its very own 618 shopping festival day, JD.com pulls out all the stops, changing its sales strategies and empowering customers through the latest technology.

How JD.com finds ways to elevate celebratory shopping

How has traditional white masculinity become a cultural cornerstone for Republicans? How are digital platforms helping Republican Christians build communities? And why are they likely to shop from wholly Conservative brands? This Cultural Snapshot of Republican voters explores the key behavioral shifts.

How to understand Republican mindsets: Cultural Snapshot 2024-2025

Queer raves are on the rise in Vietnam. A country that once denounced homosexuality is now welcoming a new generation with a drastically different perception towards the LGBTQ+ community. What started this trend? And what does this mean for those wanting to step into the scene?

Why queer raves are dominating Vietnam’s nightlife

Brands and retailers are showing notably muted celebrations for Pride Month 2024 compared to the year before, leading to some criticism over 'false activism.' In a divided political climate, brands are focusing on community activations and support rather than conspicuous campaigns.

Brands have muted Pride Month campaigns in 2024

In the ever-evolving K-pop music landscape, innovation has emerged as a critical factor driving the rise of new groups. This is embodied by the virtual concept of the boy group PLAVE. They offer a unique blend of music and technology to attract listeners looking for new and exciting experiences.

How PLAVE’s virtual K-idols upgrade fandom relationships

Second-hand luxury retailer The RealReal has created a fake store to spark conversation around the negative impact of counterfeit goods. With low-cost designer ‘dupes’ now more available than ever, luxury brands are honing in on quality and ethical production to re-engage conscious consumers.

The RealReal’s counterfeit store challenges dupe culture

In the lead-up to the 2024 election, Latine leaders are stepping into the spotlight, using their platforms to address pressing issues and reshape political narratives. As younger generations increasingly engage with politics through social media, how can brands amplify Latine voices in the US?

How are Latine leaders shaping the 2024 US election? 

Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung has taken home the Industry Craft Grand Prix at Cannes Lions for its 100th edition featuring holocaust survivor Margot Friedländer at the Holocaust Memorial in Berlin. As harrowing crises play out globally, people are looking for empathy and integrity.

German newspaper wins a Grand Prix for emotive campaign

Queenie is an eight-part miniseries created by Candice Carty-Williams, which takes a closer look at the life and experiences of a British Jamaican protagonist. This comes when people increasingly want to see diverse and authentic perspectives represented in mainstream media.

‘Queenie’ reflects demand for inclusive stories

Pedigree has won both a Gold Lion and the Outdoor Lions Grand Prix at Cannes Lions for ‘Adoptable’. As people call for an end to purpose washing, the ad lays out a commitment to ensuring – with the help of AI – that all of their campaigns from here forward are purpose-driven.

Pedigree's purpose-driven campaign wins big at Cannes Lions

When it comes to make-up, Uche Natori is in a lane of her own. Known for her flawless foundation routine, she teaches her audience how to achieve the perfect make-up look. What can brands learn from this veteran creator’s step-by-step make-up routines and focus on inclusive community building?

How Uche Natori builds Black beauty community

India's streetwear scene is heating up, with homegrown champions fighting hard for space alongside established cult legends from the West. Additionally, post-pandemic comfort clothing is now blending with Gen Z’s fondness for the, if you know, you know (IYKYK) culture to make a potent fashion mix.

What’s driving Gen Z Indians towards streetwear culture?

Liquid Death launched its second ad with superhero The Deep from the Prime Video series The Boys, in which he educated kids about the harm of drinking soda in a less-than-acceptable manner. The intentionally disastrous ad was well received online, as was Liquid Death's 'apology' for the campaign.

Liquid Death 'apologizes' for ad with superhero The Deep

In light of the ongoing student debt crisis in the US, an increasing number of brands are incorporating college scholarships into their marketing strategy. With public faith in institutions reaching historic lows, people are looking to brands to offer material support to marginalized communities.

Brands are giving away scholarships to capture Gen Z

As sex-positive TV becomes more popular, a new sub-genre is resonating with a growing number of queer Thai women seeking more authentic representation and normalisation of queerness in media. Girls’ Love shows explore the relationship between two women, making a case for queer-based Asian cinema.

Why Thailand is championing Girls’ Love series

After her brush with controversy, author and chef Molly Baz has been tapped by Special K to become the first pregnant woman on a cereal box. As advertising becomes more individualized, people are looking for relatability in the partnerships and spokespeople associated with the brands they patronize.

Special K x Molly Baz challenge pregnancy stigmas

Conservative political commentator Candace Owens has been growing in popularity due to her ‘going against the grain’ nature, which is appealing to many Black Gen Zers in the US. But she’s also part of a wider shift in American values and voting amid tough financial times and geopolitical tensions.

How Candace Owens reshapes conservatism for US Gen Zers

Spotify chief Daniel Ek has sparked controversy for his remarks on the cost of content creation. In line with a wider shift in labour dynamics and deepening concerns about the fate of human creativity, the response speaks to a growing intolerance of inequities within the creative industries.

Spotify controversy highlights evolving labour dynamics

As nationalistic pride soars in China, along with more disposable income, aspiration, and a need for novelty, people are hyper-tuned into traditional romantic festivals like 520 Day and the shopping that comes with it. International luxury brands want in, but can they compete with domestic ones?

What is 520 Day, and why do Chinese shoppers love to spend for it?

‘Camden’ is a four-part Disney+ docu-series that explores the history of the local borough as told by artists and tastemakers. It comes at a time when people want to feel seen and represented in mainstream media and seek brands that authentically engage with local insiders.

'Camden' doc spotlights London’s thriving music culture

Lifecycle

People are refusing to accept purpose-washing