Key Takeaways from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The conference call covered various companies within the North American Internet sector, specifically focusing on web builders, digital advertising, eCommerce, EdTech, and online dating. Company-Specific Insights GoDaddy (GDDY) - Management is positive about GoDaddy's vibe coding strategy, focusing on current customers and web building, with cost guardrails in place [5] - The ANS marketplace was launched, but significant financial contributions are not expected until 2026 [5] - Growth drivers for A&C bookings in 2026 include Airo, P&B strategy, and seamless commerce experiences [5] - Airo is improving average order value (AOV) and retention metrics, with a focus on high lifetime value (LTV) customers [5] Wix (WIX) - Management expects approximately 25% free cash flow (FCF) margins in 2026, despite anticipated margin compression [7] - Gross margins are improving, but variability exists due to free users abandoning projects [7] - Wix is testing a new self-creator platform with more GenAI features, but price increases in 2026 are less likely [7] - Core Wix performance remains strong, but growth acceleration may be challenging [7] The Trade Desk (TTD) - Recent layoffs affected only 1% of headcount, aligning with product and engineering initiatives [8] - No expected impact from OMC and IPG consolidation; strong relationships with both companies [8] - Kokai adoption reached 85% in November, with expectations to reach 100% soon [8] Criteo (CRTO) - Management sees agentic commerce as a significant opportunity, leveraging commerce data for better ad spend efficiency [8] - Retail Media core is performing well, with good traction in auction-based display products [8] Zeta (ZETA) - OneZeta is a key growth factor for 2026, part of the Marigold acquisition strategy [9] - Athena is on track for general availability in 1Q, but management is cautious about setting high expectations [9] IAC (IAC) - Core assets are People and MGM, with management believing both are undervalued [9] - The M&A strategy will focus on digital publishing and content sites [9] eBay (EBAY) - Guidance indicates healthy US consumer spending but weak trends in Europe [10] - eBay's holiday window extends into 1Q, with a focus on collectibles [10] - Management expects to buy back 90-100% of normalized FCF in 2026 [10] Wayfair (W) - Management reiterated 4Q guidance, noting slight deterioration in industry volume levels [11] - Success in initiatives like loyalty programs and influencer marketing is driving share gains [11] - AI initiatives are expected to roll out in 2026, enhancing user experience [11] Duolingo (DUOL) - Focus remains on user growth trends, with certain features moved back in front of the paywall [12] - Management is experimenting with GenAI features to drive user engagement [14] Match Group (MTCH) - Product testing at Tinder is ongoing, with a focus on product outcomes over near-term monetization [15] - Face Check has been rolled out in the US, with revenue impact being optimized [15] Bumble (BMBL) - Management expects a peak in declines in 4Q, with initiatives aimed at improving user experience [15] - A new AI app is being tested to enhance onboarding and matching processes [15] Additional Insights - The overall sentiment across the companies indicates a cautious optimism, with many focusing on strategic initiatives to drive growth while managing costs and market challenges [5][7][8][9][10][11][12][14][15]

The facial verification feature, known as Face Check, requires new users to verify their identity by submitting a short video selfie. https://t.co/ggjrntH1Yc ...

Core Viewpoint - Match Group has launched Face Check, a facial verification feature for Tinder, aimed at enhancing user safety and authenticity in online dating [1][2]. Group 1: Face Check Implementation - Face Check is now mandatory for all new users in seven countries and California, with plans for further rollout across the U.S. [1] - The feature requires new members to take a short video selfie to verify their identity and match their profile photos [3]. Group 2: User Safety and Trust - Users who successfully complete Face Check receive a Photo Verified badge, indicating their authenticity [4]. - The feature also detects duplicate accounts using the same face, providing additional protection against impersonation [4]. - Early results show over a 60% decrease in exposure to potential bad actors and over a 40% decrease in bad actor reports [8][9]. Group 3: Future Plans and Commitment - Match Group plans to introduce Face Check across additional apps in its portfolio starting in 2026 [7]. - The company emphasizes its commitment to responsible innovation and user privacy, ensuring that video selfies are deleted after verification [6].