INSIDE • Lame Duck Digital is an initiative of CaxtonCTP and is published on behalf of the broader media industry. Their brief was simple: address the wide-ranging and dangerous effects social media and tech giants have had, and will continue to have, on the media sector. Besides the massive impact on advertising, there is also a seeming unwillingness to employ South Africans in worthwhile numbers, or to contribute significantly to our Treasury by paying tax. To date, the tech giant duopoly has refused to operate transparently, and shirks responsibility for its part in delivering misinformation, misleading metrics and the massive abuse of personal data. At the same time, we want to highlight the crucial role our media channels play in producing and distributing news which is aimed at the betterment of society. The objective of this collection of articles is to provoke deeper thinking among those decision makers who wield the power to influence advertising spend. The title of this booklet, Lame Duck Digital, is an optimistic prediction. It suggests that the dominant tech giants lose their damaging influence, which is weakening society rather than connecting it. Caxton is committed to sustaining our democracy by producing local news for South African communities. With the support of advertisers, this has been possible for decades. A free, functioning and independent press, held accountable to the Press Code, is critical for our country, for society-at-large and for your businesses. The global tech giants may overshadow local news media, but as business leaders with a vision for a better world, it’s up to you to ensure your advertising spend aligns with what you want the future to hold. • • • • • • CEOs, it’s time to support proper journalism Taking on the tech giants Platforms, and the publishers’ dilemma The changing role of the Fourth Estate DTRT: Media literacy and children Consumers and the news trust halo Competition Commission warns on ‘killer acquisitions’ Compiled by Stone Soup Printed by CTP Paper stock 90gsm Coated February 2021 It’s up to you... Advertising spend aligns with what you want the future to hold
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