|
MARCH 31, 2026 |
Ad budgets are harder to defend. Join EMARKETER in New York City on Thursday, May 14 for a full day of advertising insights featuring new data, exclusive analysis, and direct conversations with the buyers and brand leaders navigating what comes next. Register now.
| |
In this edition: |
| |
Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up here. | | | |
|
TOP STORY |
|
|
|
AI is reshaping how brands interact with customers across the purchase journey. From chatbots handling routine inquiries to personalization engines delivering tailored recommendations, organizations are deploying AI to meet rising consumer expectations while managing operational costs. |
|
|
|
| | | |
|
IN THE NEWS |
|
Walmart launches ChatGPT app, powered by Sparky. The app takes ChatGPT users to a “tailored Walmart environment” where shoppers can link their accounts and loyalty memberships and check out via Walmart’s payment systems. |
|
| |
US buying power faces further shocks as war in Iran continues. The war in the Middle East is poised to deal another serious blow to US consumers’ buying power, as households contend with rapid spikes in energy costs and higher prices for food and other everyday goods. |
|
| |
Coupons become essential as shoppers chase savings on everyday goods. Consumers pressed by higher everyday costs have increased their reliance on deals, with coupons now considered a practical tool for making essential goods more affordable. |
|
| | | |
|
ANALYSIS |
|
|
|
The signal that’s fueling a surge in digital audio is getting clearer. US podcasts are set to capture close to an additional $1 billion per year by 2029, according to EMARKETER’s December 2025 forecast. |
|
|
|
| | | |
|
QUIZ |
|
Which health and beauty product showed the biggest increase in popularity over last year, according to purchase data on Afterpay? |
|
A) Skincare wand B) Health supplements C) Infrared sauna blanket D) Undereye patches |
|
| | | |
|
