I’ve been following how AI is changing marketing, and it’s a mixed bag. Some companies are betting big on AI, while others are worried about budget cuts and wasted investments.
The Contenders
On one side, you’ve got companies like MoEngage, which just scored $100 million to develop AI marketing tools and grow in North America, SEA & ANZ. Then there’s the Palantir and Stagwell partnership to create an AI marketing platform, plus AMPLIFY’s launch of AmplifyLaw.ai, focusing on AI for legal marketing. But, there’s also a Storyboard18 report predicting 30% ad budget cuts and more AI privacy lawsuits by 2026. And, according to Startups Magazine, 77% of UK ecommerce retailers feel their AI investments are underperforming, risking £92m.
The Breakdown
- AI Optimists: Companies are investing heavily in AI marketing tools, hoping to improve targeting and efficiency. MoEngage’s funding and the Palantir/Stagwell platform show confidence in AI’s potential.
- AI Skeptics: The Storyboard18 report paints a grim picture with predicted budget cuts and legal challenges. The Startups Magazine data suggests many companies aren’t seeing the ROI they expected from AI, particularly in UK ecommerce.
The Verdict
It seems AI’s impact on marketing will depend on how well companies can implement it and address privacy concerns. While there are clear opportunities, the risks of budget cuts and legal issues are very real.
