Today, audiences are shaping the cultural agenda. Empowered to speak up for the causes they believe in, people are actively calling out brands they see as inauthentic. What are the main drivers of this behavioural shift? And how can brands win the trust of these outspoken advocates?

From decentralised autonomous organisations (DAOs) run on Discord to city-wide mutual aid groups, people are finding safety and optimism in numbers. For growing numbers of people, collective action is emerging as the only viable solution to compounding crises and deepening alienation.

After more than 70 years, the German FA is ending its partnership with Adidas in favour of a lucrative Nike deal – but not without major backlash. The controversy highlights the emotional ties between football and national identity in Germany and the wider importance of heritage for sports fans.