The past decade has seen political polarisation – accelerated by social media’s filter bubbles and echo chambers – deepen and mutate. An ominous era of a polycrisis has shattered any remaining societal consensus. Meanwhile, powerful anti-establishment voices have stepped into the void.

As the new post-pandemic normal settles in and people adapt to a context of uncertainty, constant adversities, and pessimism, we are moving away from a moment in which consumers expected brands to rise up to society's challenges and into one when they’re demanding genuine allyship from businesses.

In the face of economic crises, climate anxieties, and global wars, people are seeking solace through connection. They want to be sure someone will hold their hand in the face of hardship. As a result, they have higher expectations of care and understanding from interactions with brands, social systems, and p...

What happens after the US election? How should brands navigate a hyper-politicised landscape? And where will the new opportunities emerge in an unstable political environment? In the 2025 US Macro Expert Outlook, Adam Berinsky explores what the US will look like in the year ahead.

More young Americans are embracing vocational trades, but both presidential candidates face challenges in mobilizing this untapped voting bloc. Gen Zers aren’t a homogeneous group, and more concerted efforts are needed to reach those who feel unrepresented by the political mainstream.