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1 week ago | 
meltwater.com | Ann-Derrick Gaillot |Elena Tarasova
In our latest consumer insights report, we analyzed what streaming viewers around the world have to say about their favorite programs, platforms, and features. Our analysis found that the topic of watch experience was mentioned and engaged with far more than others like pricing, ads, account sharing, and content. Across a wide range of communities and interests, technical qualities are now a crucial consideration for streaming subscribers and viewers.
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2 weeks ago | 
meltwater.com | Ann-Derrick Gaillot |Elena Tarasova
Wondering what that ugly-cute creature is dangling from the handbags of stylish passersby? Intrigued by the lines forming outside of Pop Mart stores all over the world? Those mischievous-looking plush toys-turned-fashion accessories are Labubus! And they are a global phenomenon — think Beanie Babies for the smartphone generations. We used our social listening and analytics solution to understand just how big the Labubu trend is, where it’s headed, and what marketers can learn from the craze.
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3 weeks ago | 
meltwater.com | Ann-Derrick Gaillot |Elena Tarasova
It’s no secret that buy now, pay later (BNPL) services are transforming how consumers around the world shop online. While consumers may have once reserved pay-over-time options for large, occasional purchases, they are now using BNPL for everything from travel, electronics, and home goods to everyday expenses like groceries. According to our Digital 2025: April Global Statshot Report, 15.8% of internet users aged 16+ use BNPL services each week, up from 15.3% in January.
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1 month ago | 
meltwater.com | Ann-Derrick Gaillot |Elena Tarasova
Mascots are nothing new in the advertising world, used by brands (particularly in the food and beverage sectors) to be more memorable with audiences. In today’s Internet age, however, mascot relatability is entering “unhinged” territory as brainrot aesthetics have taken over the digital realm. From the Duolingo owl to McDonald’s’ Grimace, modern mascots are helping brands develop youthful identities and engage new audiences by embracing irreverence and risk.
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1 month ago | 
meltwater.com | Ann-Derrick Gaillot |Elena Tarasova
How early do you get to the airport for a flight? Would you get there 15 minutes before takeoff or does the thought of doing so make you start to panic? The recently viral “airport theory” trend tests popular conventions, challenging people to show up just 15 minutes before their flight.
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1 month ago | 
meltwater.com | Ann-Derrick Gaillot |Elena Tarasova
These days, a couple meeting IRL feels a little bit retro. That’s because, over the past decade, online dating has evolved from a novelty to a mainstay of modern, digital culture. In the U.S., for example, about half of people looking for serious relationships are doing so on dating apps. Those numbers are lower elsewhere, like in the U.K., but even there, about a third of Gen Z and Millennials are swiping.
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1 month ago | 
meltwater.com | Ann-Derrick Gaillot |Elena Tarasova
Are we at the beginning of a branded Substack boom? Some strong signs point to yes. Not only does the newsletter platform boast five million paid subscribers, but Google searches for “Substack” recently outnumbered those for “newsletter” for the first time ever since it launched in 2017. Everyone from discerning fashion enthusiasts to broadcast TV news anchors are flocking to the platform in search of some fresh air, and a growing number of brands are following suit.
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2 months ago | 
meltwater.com | Ann-Derrick Gaillot |Elena Tarasova
Reevaluating your relationship with your devices? Looking to cut down on screen time? You’re not alone. According to ConsumerAffairs, 57% of people in the United States consider themselves addicted to their mobile phones. Concerns about smartphone use are especially acute when it comes to young people. According to Pew Research, about two-thirds of parents who think it’s harder to be a teenager today than 20 years ago attribute that to social media and other technology that has risen in that time.
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2 months ago | 
meltwater.com | Ann-Derrick Gaillot |Elena Tarasova
Does the new season of Max’s The White Lotus have you dreaming of a luxury vacation to Thailand? That’s what some in Thailand’s tourism industry are hoping, including the nation’s Tourism Authority, which offered direct support to the show’s production. The Four Seasons hotels in Maui and Taormina saw increased business after being featured in seasons one and two of the show respectively, and the same growth is likely for the Four Seasons Koh Samui currently featured in season three.
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Mar 3, 2025 | 
meltwater.com | Ann-Derrick Gaillot |Elena Tarasova
Though it wasn’t the most surprising telecast of recent years, the 2025 Oscars had its fair share of unexpected moments and wins. From triumphs to controversies, there was much for audiences to discuss in the lead-up and night of this year’s ceremony. We used our social listening and analytics solution to see what news, broadcast, and social media discussions worldwide looked like for the 2025 Academy Awards.
