With TikTok facing potential US ban uncertainties, the platform's successful shopping integration has created both challenges and opportunities in the social commerce landscape. "TikTok really showed how social commerce can work in a new way in the US," our analyst Sky Canaves said on a recent episode of “Behind the Numbers: Reimagining Retail.”

2025 is the year marketers will get serious about the creator economy, according to our analyst Jasmine Enberg.

Non-retail commerce media channels typically mean payments, travel, and intermediaries that overlap with retail. But more nontraditional commerce media networks have been popping up from places like Mohegan’s casinos, RE/MAX’s real estate websites, and Planet Fitness’ gyms.

The fate of TikTok in the US: Legal, economic, and operational implications unfold as businesses and creators prepare for potential disruption.

Three-quarters of consumers will reduce spending if tariffs lead to higher prices: Dining out, apparel, and live entertainment are the most likely candidates for cutbacks.

Meta’s alleged use of pirated books highlights AI’s data dilemma—tech companies need massive data sets, but legal battles may force stricter content licensing rules

Despite record AI investments, Big Tech’s revenue growth isn’t keeping up. With strained infrastructure and investor pressure mounting, 2025 will determine if AI can deliver real returns

Chinese ecommerce platforms seek new paths for growth: Temu expands into South Korea amid challenges in Western markets.

47% of restaurant operators plan to add discounts, deals or value promotions this year: But McDonald’s disappointing results highlight the challenges of that strategy.

Key stat: 19% of US adults play team sports, up from 11% in 2020, according to CivicScience, signaling that people aren’t only watching sports, they’re participating as well.

Super Bowl viewership likely slipped: Taylor and Trump probably weren’t enough to top last year’s 123.7 million viewers.

Fox acquires Red Seat Ventures: As audiences shift from traditional TV, The company is expanding its digital-first media push.

A massive AI investment push and nuclear-powered infrastructure give France an edge, but supply chain constraints and strict EU rules could hamper its ability to compete with the US

Taking chances versus playing it too safe: Brands like Snickers and Nationwide have faced backlash for polarizing commercials, proving that shock value can be a double-edged sword.

NFL maintains DEI efforts as Trump rolls back policies: The league reaffirms its diversity commitment, arguing it benefits both competition and business despite shifting political winds.

Hurricane-force headwinds force Shein to slash its valuation: The retailer’s business model is under scrutiny amid mounting pressures in the US and EU.

The future of Super Bowl advertising is multi-platform: Brands are investing in second-screen engagement and digital-first campaigns to maximize impact beyond the game.

A lot happens in a week, so every Friday we're going to analyze all the new data and provide you with some of the key takeaways. Welcome to the Friday 5.

Most firms have announced AI-related initiatives, but fintechs have a key advantage.

We look at how adjusted pricing, launching in new categories and markets, and growing its debit card made this possible