Sunday, 23 March 2025
24.1 C
Singapore
25.8 C
Thailand
20.9 C
Indonesia
24.5 C
Philippines

Major brands halt ads on X amid antisemitism backlash

Major companies like Apple, Disney, Lionsgate, and more suspend ads on X amidst rising antisemitic content concerns, signalling a significant shift in the advertising landscape on the platform.

In a significant development for the advertising landscape, major companies like Apple, Disney, and Lionsgate have suspended their advertising campaigns on X. This decision is a direct response to the escalating concerns over antisemitic content on the platform. The move signifies a growing unease among advertisers about the content moderation policies under the leadership of X’s owner, Elon Musk.

Growing concerns over content

The suspension of advertising by these prominent brands comes in the wake of a controversial endorsement of an antisemitic conspiracy theory by Musk. According to reports from Axios and The New York Times, these companies are taking a stand against the content on the platform. Additionally, Warner Brothers Discovery and Paramount Global have also paused their ads, as reported by Deadline and CNBC, respectively.

IBM leads the charge

IBM was among the first to act, confirming on Thursday that it was halting its advertisements. This decision followed a Media Matters report that revealed IBM’s Watson division ads were placed next to pro-Nazi content. The report also highlighted the presence of ads from Apple, Oracle, and other tech companies alongside similar material.

In response, an executive at X told Engadget that the posts identified were no longer generating revenue. X CEO Linda Yaccarino also emphasised the platform’s dedication to combating antisemitism and discrimination.

The role of Musk’s leadership

The withdrawal of these advertisers marks a significant setback for X’s ad business, which was already struggling. Musk’s recent tweet, in which he voiced agreement with an account promoting an antisemitic conspiracy theory, seems to have intensified the concerns of advertisers. Axios reported that Apple’s decision to “pause” its ads could be attributed to either Musk’s tweet, the Media Matters report, or a combination of both.

The broader impact

This is not the first instance of such a boycott. A year ago, civil rights groups called for anย advertiser boycottย following Musk’s takeover of Twitter, pointing to a rise in hate speech and relaxed moderation policies. Though some advertisers returned, the ad business never fully recovered, with Musk acknowledging a steep decline in ad revenue.

Hot this week

Adobe and Microsoft introduce AI marketing agents in Microsoft 365 Copilot

Adobe and Microsoft unveil AI marketing agents in Microsoft 365 Copilot, streamlining campaign creation and cross-platform collaboration.

Google strengthens UK AI business with Agentspace data residency and incentives

Google expands its UK AI business with Agentspace data residency, new startup incentives, and advanced AI tools, strengthening local AI adoption.

AI agents transform industries with NVIDIA AI Enterprise

AI agents powered by NVIDIA AI Enterprise are transforming industries, improving customer service, aiding humanitarian efforts, and streamlining operations worldwide.

The Vision Pro Metallica concert video is Appleโ€™s most immersive experience yet

Appleโ€™s Vision Pro Metallica concert video delivers an electrifying, immersive experience, setting a new standard for concert films.

Airwallex partners with Discover Global Network to expand payment options

Airwallex partners with Discover Global Network, allowing merchants to accept Discover and Diners Club International cards, reaching 345 million cardholders.

Tenable research finds serious security gaps in AI cloud services

Tenable finds 70% of AI cloud workloads have unpatched vulnerabilities, warning of data tampering and poor security in popular cloud services.

Asiaโ€™s AI growth held back by fragile data infrastructure

Hitachi Vantara urges Asiaโ€™s businesses to prioritise data resilience as AI adoption accelerates across the region.

Vertex Ventures Japan completes first close and strengthens leadership team

Vertex Ventures Japan announces first fund close and key leadership hires to help Japanese startups expand globally.

Ankerโ€™s compact 45W USB-C charger gets even smaller and lighter

Ankerโ€™s new Nano 45W USB-C charger is smaller and lighter than before, offering fast charging in a compact design. It is now available for US$34.99.

Related Articles