Next in Media talked to the founder and CEO of Taboola about the state of the open web, what he thinks about the Google trial, and why publishers may have to start working together to compete for consumers' time and advertisers' wallets.

Takeaways:

•  Google’s Market Power and Tensions: Adam highlights concerns in the industry regarding Google's practices, such as keeping users within its ecosystem rather than directing them to other publishers. 

•  Optimism for the Open Web: Despite challenges, Adam expresses strong optimism for the open web, emphasizing the opportunities for AI in personalizing content, improving user engagement, and increasing revenue per user.

•  Importance of Quality News: He stresses the role of quality news and journalism, arguing against reliance on user-generated content platforms for important information, which could pose risks due to lack of editorial oversight.

•  AI in Advertising: Taboola is exploring AI, particularly through their tool, "Abby," which uses a conversational layer to help advertisers design campaigns. 

•  Expansion of Retail Media: Adam predicts significant growth in retail media as it begins to look beyond its own platforms for audience reach. 

•  Apple Partnership: Taboola’s partnership with Apple allows it to serve ads on Apple News in several markets. 

•  Opportunities with Generative AI: He describes a future where AI-driven media buying can lower churn rates and increase ad spend efficiency, giving brands control while enabling faster decision-making.

•  Rise of New Distribution Channels: Adam foresees the open web expanding into non-traditional environments, such as cars and kitchens, providing news and other digital content in more everyday settings.

•  Yahoo’s Revival: Adam credits Yahoo’s recent success to its management team and a culture focused on execution and transparency, which he believes has transformed Yahoo into a strong partner in the open web ecosystem.

Guest: Adam Singolda

Host: Mike Shields

Sponsor: Epsilon

Producer: FEL Creative