Weekly SEO and Marketing Recap: Mar 12, 2025

Hey besties! It’s your marketing BFF, Ali! 💁‍♀️ This week, we’re talking about Google’s monopoly drama, AI in ads, and some spicy updates on gambling policies!

Buckle up, because this is gonna be a wild ride! 🚀

U.S. DOJ Antitrust Filing Proposes 4 Ways To Break Google’s Monopoly

So, the U.S. Department of Justice is coming for Google’s neck! 😱 They’ve proposed some major moves to break up Google’s monopoly, including separating Chrome from its business and limiting those sweet, sweet payments to Apple for being the default search engine.

The goal? A fairer playing field for everyone! 🙌
“Google must provide to the Technical Committee and Plaintiffs a monthly report outlining any changes to its search text ads auction.”
Read more here!

Google's Response to AI Mode Concerns

Google is addressing concerns about its AI mode in ads. They’re assuring us that they’re not just throwing AI into the mix without a plan. They want to keep things transparent and user-friendly! 🤖💖
Check it out!

OpenAI's Deep Research on SEO Strategies

OpenAI is getting into the SEO game! They’re exploring how AI can enhance SEO strategies, and honestly, I’m obsessed with this direction! Imagine the possibilities! 🌈
Read more here!

Google Expands Site Reputation Abuse Policy

Google is tightening the reins on site reputation abuse! This is a big deal for affiliates and marketers, as it means more accountability in the digital space.

Let’s keep it clean, folks! 🧼
More info here!

Martin Splitt Warns Against Redirecting 404s to Homepage

Google’s Martin Splitt is dropping knowledge bombs! Redirecting 404 errors to the homepage can hurt your SEO. Let’s keep our sites user-friendly, people! 🚫🏠
Get the scoop!

Google Updates Gambling Advertising Policy

Google is shaking things up with its gambling advertising policy! This could have major implications for affiliates in the gambling niche. Stay tuned for how this affects your strategies! 🎲
Read more here!

TikTok's $30B Ad Boom Faces U.S. Uncertainty

TikTok is on fire with a $30 billion ad boom, but there’s some uncertainty in the U.S. market. Will they keep their momentum? Only time will tell! ⏳
Check it out!

Google Ads AI Mode

Google Ads is getting an AI mode! This could change the game for advertisers, making campaigns smarter and more efficient.

I can’t wait to see how this plays out! 🤩
More details here!

Trump DOJ Google Divest Chrome

The Trump administration is also in the mix, pushing for Google to divest Chrome. This is a wild political twist in the ongoing antitrust saga! 🥴
Read more here!

Second-Hand Webshops Violate Consumer Rights

Over half of second-hand webshops are violating consumer rights! This is a huge red flag for e-commerce and could lead to some serious changes in regulations. 🚩
Get the details!

New Tools for Building Agents by OpenAI

OpenAI is rolling out new tools for building agents! This is super exciting for developers and marketers alike. The future is looking bright with these advancements! 🌟
Check it out!

New Research on Google Search Behavior

SparkToro has released new research on how often Americans search Google and which search verticals they use. This is a must-read for anyone looking to optimize their strategies! 📊
Read more here!

Reddit's New Tools for Engagement

Reddit is making it easier to engage and contribute with new tools! This is a game-changer for community building and marketing on the platform. Let’s get those discussions going! 💬
Get the scoop!

Instagram Previews Edits App Features

Instagram is previewing some exciting new editing features for their app! This could change the way we create and share content.

Can’t wait to try these out! 📸
Check it out!

YouTube Revamps Mid-Roll Ad Placement

YouTube is revamping its mid-roll ad placement! This could mean better ad experiences for viewers and more revenue for creators. Let’s see how this shakes out! 🎥
Read more here!

🧠 Quiz Time

Which proposal did the U.S. DOJ include in its antitrust case to limit Google's monopoly power?

A) Ban Google from using AI in advertising
B) Restrict payments to Apple for default search placement
C) Remove YouTube from Google’s services
D) Shut down Chrome permanently

Answer at the end on the mail!

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That’s all for this week, my fabulous marketing fam! Keep hustling and stay fabulous!

Your ride-or-die marketing bestie, Ali 💖
Brought to you by Aff.ninja 🥷