Inside Culture

A new regulatory era?

As governments and regulatory bodies introduce new checks on businesses, how can brands score a win from compliance communications?

The EU’s decision to fine Meta €1.2B for transferring users' data from the EU to the US marks a step towards greater accountability among Big Tech. But it also reflects a shift in the role that governmental regulatory bodies are playing in global disruptive industries. In the last few weeks, we’ve not only seen intervention on Big Tech but also new consumer credit laws curbing the rise of BNPL providers in Australia, new FTC rulings on greenwashing and fines for businesses that have been unable to back up their health and wellness claims. Meanwhile, everyone is figuring out how to keep AI in check – and whether it can be done at all. While attitudes to government intervention in business and people’s lives vary wildly – ranging from cries of nanny state-ism to fury about unchecked private interests – the rulings come amid historic mistrust of the government and media. Meanwhile, in spite of stable trust in businesses, people are more comfortable than ever in calling out missteps and are increasingly cynical about empty promises or misleading actions from businesses. With greater regulation forcing brands to move faster on key issues – how can they best communicate with their audiences about the positive steps they’re making?

88%
of Gen Zers believe a company ought to speak out based on current eventsAPCO WORLDWIDE, 2023
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