Global Scans · Media & Entertainment · Weekly Summary

• [New] In 2026, streaming is no longer a one-dimensional entertainment medium - it has become a dynamic commerce environment where viewers transition seamlessly from watching content to purchasing products without breaking immersion. Avenga
• [New] By 2026, interactive streaming is emerging as a core monetization strategy rather than an experiment - and a defining feature of modern media and entertainment industry trends. Avenga
• [New] By 2026, platforms that invest in predictive algorithms, interoperable identity layers, and cross-platform behavioral analytics will define the competitive benchmark across the media industry trends landscape. Avenga
• [New] What differentiates 2026 from previous cycles is that growth now hinges on efficient monetization, meaningful viewer engagement, and the intelligent application of emerging technology trends in media and entertainment industry - particularly artificial intelligence. Avenga
• [New] Global retail media, in which businesses such as grocery and big-box chains offer advertisers ways to reach consumers using customer data, will surpass television advertising revenue in 2025 for the first time, with an increase of 11.3% to $174.2 billion. MartechVibe
• [New] In a milestone shift, global retail media is expected to surpass TV advertising in 2025, rising 11.3% to $174.2 billion, even as TV spending inches up just 0.6%. Baton Rouge Business Report
• [New] By 2026, 25% of people will spend at least one hour per day in the metaverse for work, shopping, education, social interaction, or entertainment. Devsu
• [New] There are so many social media marketing trends ahead going into 2026. Sprout Social
• [New] Moving into 2026, brands need to prioritize genuine connection and storytelling, rather than blindly hopping on social media trends and chasing fleeting moments. Sprout Social
• [New] Community management will be a key social media marketing trend in 2026. Sprout Social
• [New] Propaganda outlets are preparing large-scale information operations alleging terrorism by the Ukrainian Armed Forces, torture of civilians, shootings of citizens, and blocking detachments, which will be actively circulated through social media, messaging apps, and controlled media. RBC-Ukraine
• [New] Among the most dominant themed entertainment trends in 2025 and 2026 is the integration of cutting-edge technology from design and engineering to every stage of the park experience. ICM Project
• [New] As Netflix grows as an entertainment giant, with the potential deal to acquire Warner Bros. announced last week, the Netflix House locations could become even more compelling by adding additional brands. Digiday
• [New] Investors are keeping a close eye on the regulatory landscape, as any developments could significantly impact Netflix's stock performance and the broader media industry. investing.com
• [New] Netflix's global streaming platform combined with Warner Bros.' rich content library could redefine the landscape of digital media consumption. investing.com
• [New] As Gartner reports, by 2026, 25% of people will spend at least one hour per day in the metaverse for work, shopping, education, or entertainment. Futurist Speaker on AI Leadership, Future of Work, Futu
• [New] Future agents will be able to recognize human emotions and respond accordingly, as they will be equipped with affective computing research-derived components from institutions like MIT Media Lab. Buzz with AI
• [New] A survey by European media agency Mediaplus of over 800 marketers found AI & automation their top priority going into 2026, well above creative effectiveness, sustainability or indeed brand-building activities. Digiday
• [New] Social media history, family members' personal information, and biometric data are just some of the information tourists will need to provide if changes proposed this week by U.S. Customs and Border Protection are approved. Skift
• [New] Denmark and Malaysia are among the nations expected to roll out social-media bans for teens and children as soon as 2026. Gizmodo
• [New] This week Australia will become the first country to ban social media accounts for under-16s on major platforms including Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok and X. The Guardian

Last updated: 22 December 2025