GADGETS NOW – Happn has introduced a new feature named 'Ready to date' which allows users to indicate their readiness to meet in person. The feature is integrated on the conversation page of two users, and when one user expresses their readiness, it remains private until the other user does the same. Karima Ben Abdelmalek, the CEO and President of Happn, emphasized that the feature incorporates the important aspect of consent and reflects Happn's core mission of not only fostering connections online but also helping them transition into real-life relationships.
Month: July 2023
Bumble Launches New Kindness Campaign With Actor Adam DiMarco
Parship Promotes Positive Online Dating Through Artistic Visuals
PAGE – Parship commissioned Berlin-based artists to create visuals promoting Healthy Dating. The initiative, launched in 2021, focuses on respect, authenticity, and good communication. Artist Sarah Alice Rabbit's illustrations emphasize equality and acceptance. India Aparicio's work addresses the emotional complexities of online dating and advocates for positive communication. Dominik Friess' photographs capture candid moments of a young couple, highlighting honesty and commitment. Through these visuals, Parship aims to encourage more positive and respectful behavior in online dating.
Dating App Users Lose Millions to Pig Butchering Scam
IT-ONLINE – The "pig butchering" scam, which originated in China, has led to Americans losing ~$112M in cryptocurrency. The scam primarily targets users on dating apps. Scammers build romantic connections with their victims over weeks or months, and then start discussing their affluent lifestyle due to an investment app. Eventually, they offer investment advice and recommend a specific trading platform, encouraging the victim to invest. Initially, victims see returns, but as they invest larger amounts, the scammer starts demanding huge fees for withdrawal and then disappears with the victim's money. Despite awareness of such scams being high, many still fall prey.
The Ashley Madison Affair: Where Is ex-CEO Noel Biderman Now?
Our Next Industry Leading Events
OPW – We have two kinds of events. Online, and offline.
Our online event is LTR (see http://www.LTR.us) and is open to IDEA members. LTR stands for Love, Technology, Relationships and is for leaders of dating companies. It's free to join if you are a full-time leader at an online dating company.
Our offline event is IDEA Summit (see http://www.IDEASummit.org), and these are for a small number of dating company CXOs to meet. These are by-invite-only, so we can balance the groups for optimal learning and sharing.
These events are free, as is IDEA (see http://www.IDEA.gp) membership. To join IDEA and start getting invites to our events, please email mark@courtlandbrooks.com.
Our next event dates are…
- Wed 12th July – LTR
- Tue 8th Aug – Smitten & Courtland Brooks IDEA Summit in Iceland
- Wed 6th Sep – LTR
- Thu 28th Sep – Evercore ISI & Courtland Brooks IDEA Summit in New York
Online Dating Stocks: Wall Street Bullish Despite Slump
BUSINESS INSIDER – Wall Street analysts predict a resurgence in online dating apps despite their poor stock performance since 2021. Match Group and Bumble have seen a significant decline in their stock value (Match Group has shed 75% of its value since hitting a record share price of $169.53, Bumble has tumbled 77% from its IPO of $75.46), but analysts remain optimistic due to strong growth prospects and the sustained popularity of online dating. Bank of America analyst Nat Schindler cited that these stocks are undervalued relative to their cash flow and foresees significant potential for growth. He also believes that online dating, being a primary means for new couples to meet, won't face a recession even if the economy does, as it meets a basic human need for connection. Sam Yagan, the co-founder of OkCupid and former CEO of Match, said that the years following the 2008 recession were actually OkCupid's best years. However, investors remain cautious, particularly due to concerns about the broader economic climate and the impact of the Federal Reserve raising interest rates. Meanwhile, dating apps are making strategic changes, such as short-term subscriptions and brand revamps, to attract users and prepare for economic challenges. Analysts suggest that investors are taking a "wait and see" approach.
by Jennifer Sor
See full article at Business Insider
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See the top news on Match Group
See the top news on OkCupid
Tinder Reveals Fluidity and Inclusivity Lead the Way
IANS – Tinder has reported that its LGBTQIA++ user base is growing at twice the rate of its overall user base in India, with non-binary being the most common gender choice among its members. Tinder's insights indicate that 56% of young users in India are open to dating individuals with diverse gender identities. The platform also reveals that dating apps have become spaces for self-exploration, with 54% of young LGBTQIA++ members coming out on the app before doing so in real life.
Making Friends on Apps Doesn’t Need to Be Weird
WASHINGTON POST – Lonely American adults, especially the younger generation, are increasingly turning to apps to make friends, overcoming the stigma associated with seeking platonic relationships online. Platforms such as Discord, Reddit, Bumble, and Meetup have become hubs for individuals seeking companionship. While online dating has been normalized, actively seeking friends online is still considered somewhat taboo. Some participants noted that making friends as an adult requires effort, vulnerability, and a willingness to face social fears.