Meta: A Controversial Overhaul

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, WhatsApp, Threads, and Instagram, is making waves by implementing sweeping changes to its speech and content moderation policies. Key updates include:

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• Eliminating its fact-checking program: The platform has stopped working with 90 fact-checking organizations around the globe to verify content. 
• Shifting to a community-driven model: Relying on users to flag and address misinformation via a new "community notes" system.
• Boosting the visibility of political content: This was previously more restricted during the election. Now raising concerns over potential misinformation and political polarization.

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These policy shifts coincide with broader organizational changes at Meta, including:

• The elimination of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives: This has sparked criticism from employees and external stakeholders.
• Leadership changes: Joel Kaplan, a former senior advisor to George W. Bush, has been appointed as Meta's new Head of Global Policy.

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In a video announcement, CEO Mark Zuckerberg stated that Meta’s new community-driven moderation approach will resemble the "community notes" system implemented by X (formerly Twitter). However, X’s own lack of moderation led to a significant initial withdrawal of major advertisers, many of whom only recently began returning. Meanwhile, some users migrated to alternatives like BlueSky.

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The implications for Meta remain uncertain: Will advertisers pull back due to these changes? Will users respond positively or shift to other platforms? The coming months will reveal the impact on both content and advertising budgets.

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TikTok: Facing a Ban

While Meta loosens restrictions, TikTok is fighting a battle for survival in the U.S. The platform faces a potential nationwide ban on January 19th unless ByteDance, its parent company, divests TikTok’s U.S. operations.

This week, TikTok’s legal team argued its case before the Supreme Court, with a decision expected soon. As far as advertising dollars, TikTok has reportedly offered refunds for undelivered ad inventory in the event of a ban, as reported by Digiday.

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A TikTok ban could significantly reshape the advertising landscape, potentially redirecting ad dollars to platforms like YouTube, Meta, and connected CTV services. Advertisers and media buyers should be preparing contingency plans to address the uncertainty.

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What’s Next?

As Meta loosens its moderation policies and TikTok battles a ban, these developments underscore the evolving and often contentious role of social media. Whether these changes lead to innovation or exacerbate existing challenges remains to be seen.

Stay tuned for updates as these stories unfold—both platforms and their advertising ecosystems may look very different in the months ahead.

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Support for Those Impacted by the LA Fires

Please consider supporting those affected by the devastating fires in Los Angeles. Below are links to organizations providing relief:

• Pasadena Humane Society 
• Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation 
• World Central Kitchen 

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