the MSMI Intelligencer Report
February, 2025
It’s a pressing question marketers are posing to their brand teams, planners, strategists, and agencies. Why? Because forces are shifting and evolving at breakneck speed. In just one month, transformative changes are emerging from all corners—technology, politics, regulations, economics, nature, and beyond.
AI is transforming marketing strategies, offering opportunities for personalized customer experiences and efficient data analysis but also raising concerns about data privacy and ethical considerations. Proposed tariffs and trade policies may affect supply chains and pricing. A potential TikTok ban will cause marketers to shift and reallocate marketing dollars to other social media platforms. Natural disasters such as the LA fires have caused over 200,000 people to be evacuated from their homes. The fires have also disrupted advertising production and budgets. Brands such as Airbnb, Hilton, and Planet Fitness are providing support in different ways for first responders and victims. AdAgeBrandResponse
Navigating these challenges will require marketers to be adaptable and agile, continuously updating their strategies for 2025 to align with these dynamic changes and their effects on consumer behaviors.
Behind the scenes at CES with an MSMI Alum
by Triveni Rai MSMI 2025
Jason Wang, Global Strategist MW Truth Central; Jess Francis, Research Director MW Truth Central; Laura Simpson Global CIO
Fordham University’s MS in Marketing Intelligence (MSMI) program continues to shape the next generation of marketing leaders, and Jason Wang, an MSMI alum, exemplifies that success. Now a Global Strategist at McCann Worldgroup's Truth Central, Jason was actively involved in the team behind McCann’s latest global study, The Truth About Escapism, which was showcased at CES 2025, one of the world's most influential technology events.
Fordham MSMI students contributed to the research in its early stages by analyzing key aspects of escapism, particularly within entertainment and travel. Seeing the research come full circle, first in the classroom and then on a global stage like CES, highlights how Fordham's Marketing Intelligence program prepares students for real-world impact.
Jason highlighted the high quality of the students' work, emphasizing that their analysis and insights were both compelling and thought-provoking. MW’s research team was particularly impressed with their ability to interpret data and craft narratives, reinforcing the value of academic-industry collaborations.
This partnership is part of an ongoing relationship between McCann Worldgroup and Fordham, where MSMI students gain real-world experience working on applied projects with industry leaders. “We’ve worked with Fordham MSMI students for years, and every time, their insights, storytelling, and interpretations of data have amazed us,” Jason said.
For those interested in learning more about The Truth About Escapism, the executive summary is available here. And for more on Jason’s highlights from CES click here for the full article.
Super Bowl: The Biggest Ad Game in Town
Super Bowl LIX is more than the NFL championship game, it’s a marketing extravaganza. Brands across all categories will spend an estimated $ 17 billion to reach an audience of over 120 million viewers, Swifties included. Everyone will be watching to see if the Kansas City Chiefs will three-peat or will the Philadelphia Eagles thwart their chance for history.
Every year, the question remains for marketers who will spend an estimated $8MM per 30 seconds, is it worth it? CINT, an online market research company, surveyed 300 U.S. based respondents in their report, UnlockingBigGameInsights. While 76% of viewers tune in primarily for the game, other factors play significant roles, such as sports betting (61%) and commercials (46%). Traditionally, Budweiser, Coca-Cola, and Doritos are the Brands that see the most engagement and awareness.
For an in-depth look at marketing’s winners and losers, tune into the post-game ad analysis with Linda Luca on Wed. Feb. 12.
Save-the-dates
Post-Game Super Bowl Ad Analysis with prof. Linda Luca Wednesday, February 12 via Zoom 1:30 - 2:30. Sign up here
BBC Studios Marketing Internship Info Session, Friday, February 14th, 10am-11am, LC South Lounge. https://fordham.joinhandshake.com/events/1687890/share_preview
Competition Marketing Gen Jam ( Gen-AI Hackathon) Saturday Feb. 22. 10 AM - 4 PM via Zoom Learn to make videos Gen-AI from movie production experts.
Marketing Careers Conference Wednesday, March 5, 4- 8 PM 140 W. 62nd RegisterHERE