Aware of hidden agendas, people no longer believe in the possibility of absolute truth or complete transparency from institutions, public figures, and individuals. Yet they are still drawn to honesty, integrity, and – at times – even vulnerability, which they expect from peers and brands alike.

In the turbulent economic environment, money is losing its value. Consumers are reevaluating their spending across sectors. With a looming crisis of trust in financial institutions, how are people managing their budgets? And how can brands navigate the complex relationship between value and cost?

Wendy’s has announced plans to test a surge pricing model featuring prices that fluctuate based on demand and faced early public backlash. In the wake of the cost of living crisis, people are looking for brands to find solutions that don’t involve passing increased costs onto the consumer.

Bumble faced backlash to a UK campaign, with many women feeling like the brand encroached on personal choice and bodily autonomy. While female empowerment has previously been at Bumble's core, the backlash shows how important it is for brands to reflect and respect women’s rights and values.

A revolution in female-focused wellbeing is underway as women become more informed and connected to their menstrual cycle, with femtech helping to spearhead this change and transform women’s lives so they feel empowered. How can brands best deliver in this profitable space?

A survey by The Conversation revealed significant gaps in menstrual health literacy among teenage girls in Western Australia. Even with education on sexual health, many students lack basic knowledge about the menstrual cycle, highlighting the inadequacy of current educational programs.