VuePoints - Winter 2025

Hi, I’m John Cobb , CEO and co-founder of VuePlanner —welcome to the VuePoints Newsletter! This week, we’re diving into Big Tech’s massive $240 billion AI investment plans, analyzing the impact of AI on retail in Q4, and exploring the evolving role of CMOs in the AI era. Plus, we take a look at Major League Soccer’s 30th season campaign, highlight key LinkedIn insights, and share a must-listen podcast on the YouTube vs. Netflix streaming battle. Let’s dive in!?

In 2025, 亚马逊 , Alphabet Inc. , and Meta plan to collectively invest over $240 billion in AI-related capital expenditures, focusing on data centers and generative AI services. Despite significant ad revenue—Amazon's $56.2 billion, Alphabet's $72.4 billion, and Meta's $160 billion in 2024—only Meta surpassed analyst expectations last quarter. These substantial AI investments underscore Big Tech's commitment to integrating advanced AI technologies into their core operations. Learn more.

Big Tech ad giants plan to spend $240 billion on AI in 2025

In Q4 2024, retailers' adoption of AI technologies yielded mixed outcomes; while some leveraged AI effectively, others faced notable challenges. Key lessons include the importance of aligning AI initiatives with clear business objectives and ensuring robust data management practices. Looking ahead, retailers are encouraged to focus on integrating AI in ways that enhance customer experiences and operational efficiency. Learn more.

AI In Q4: What Worked, What Didn’t And What’s Next

In the latest "Behind the Numbers" podcast episode, experts discuss the evolving role of Chief Marketing Officers in the context of generative AI and AI agents. They explore how these technologies are transforming marketing strategies and the challenges CMOs face in adapting to this new landscape. The conversation highlights the need for CMOs to integrate AI effectively to stay competitive in the rapidly changing marketing environment. Listen here.

Behind the Numbers: Welcome to the Third Era of the CMO Role—The Chief Marketing Everything

Major League Soccer (MLS) is celebrating its 30th season with a dynamic "Game On" campaign, featuring Grammy-winning artist Doechii alongside stars like Lionel Messi and Cavan Sullivan. The campaign, which debuted during regional Super Bowl broadcasts, aims to highlight the league's energy and broaden its appeal. In collaboration with Apple TV, MLS is also introducing a docuseries titled "Onside: Major League Soccer" and incorporating Apple TV-branded sleeve patches on team jerseys. Learn more.

Major League Soccer kicks off 30th season with new campaign and partnerships

Our first Post of the Week spotlight goes to Joshua Cohen , Founder and COO at Tubefilter , and his recent post about how YouTube CEO Neal Mohan announced his big bets for creators and his platform in the coming year. He breaks down YouTube’s advertising revenues over the last 8 years. Check out the full post here.

YouTube CEO Neal Mohan announced his big bets for creators

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And our second Post of the Week spotlight goes to Neal Mohan , CEO at YouTube, and his recent post about how this year’s Super Bowl highlighted what’s possible when creators, athletes, artists and brands come together to celebrate the magic of sports. And YouTube’s partnership with the National Football League (NFL) was at the heart of the action. Check out his full post here.

Neal Mohan Superbowl LIX Highlights?

I would be remiss if I didn’t share the latest Next in Creator Media hosted by Michael Shields . The episodes I have linked for you features Business Insider ’s media correspondent Lucia Moses . The spend the episode chatting about why Netflix is suddenly paying more attention to creators and YouTube, and what this might mean for the future of talent deals and distribution. Give it a listen here.?

Breaking Down the Netflix vs YouTube Streaming War