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Spotify global advertising revenue forecast to reach $2.1bn in 2024 as the platform focuses on winning a share of video ad budgets

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Spotify

Spotify’s global ad revenue will top the $2bn threshold for the first time in 2024, up 13% year-on year, with revenue rising to $2.6bn in 2026
Brands use Spotify to boost reach with Gen Z
Combining video and audio formats boosts advertising sales by 66% and purchase intent by 27%
Spotify has 626 million users globally with growth coming from outside the US and Europe
WARC Media’s Platform Insights: Spotify

18 September 2024 – Spotify, the world’s most popular audio streaming subscription service, is now turning to opportunities in the video advertising space whilst making it easier for brands to run multi-media campaigns on the platform.
 And, while Spotify is by no means a social platform, it is looking to better facilitate community and connection between fans and artists.

Alex Brownsell, Head of Content, WARC Media, and author of the report, says: “Spotify is looking to expand beyond its sonic roots. The platform is eyeing opportunities in the video ad space, especially with video podcast consumption rising.

“Moreover, a splurge by Spotify on original podcast content and monetisation tools has been replaced with a greater focus on ensuring that rising ad revenue leads to greater business profitability.”

Providing evidence-based insights on the challenges and opportunities Spotify has to offer, this latest Platform Insights report from WARC Media offers an overview of the key data points that advertisers need to know about the platform spanning investment, consumption and performance.

Investment: Spotify’s advertising revenue is forecast to reach $2.1bn in 2024, up 13.0% year-on-year, with revenue rising to $2.6bn in 2026
Spotify has consistent advertising revenue growth momentum. The platform has achieved double-digit growth in its advertising business over the last six quarters. WARC Media figures suggest Spotify’s global advertising revenue will surpass $2bn for the first time in 2024, up 13.0% year-on-year with revenue rising to $2.6bn in 2026.

Podcast advertising revenue growth has outpaced increases in Spotify’s music advertising monetisation, driven by a boost in impressions sold in both original and licensed content via Spotify Audience Network. Spotify is also looking to boost advertising revenue through the launch of generative AI tools such as Quick Audio.

Spotify is looking to enhance its social credentials, enabling comments on podcasts and allowing users to share their listening habits with followers.

Brands in categories such as financial services and automotive are using campaigns on Spotify as

a means of building incremental reach with younger buyers. According to analysis by WARC Media, financial services will be the third highest spending category on the platform in 2024, with

investment reaching $339.4m. While 61% of first-time car buyers on Spotify are under the age of 35, according to GWI.

Consumption: Spotify has more than 626 million users globally with Middle East, Africa and Asia leading growth
Spotify is the world’s most popular audio streaming subscription service, with more than 626 million users globally. While growth in North America has plateaued, Spotify has made gains in the rest of the world. The Middle East, Africa and Asia accounted for 205 million users in Q2 2024, up

from 165 million a year ago.

According to Spotify, more than 319 million Gen Z users are “actively engaged” with its “most immersive features” with in app video a key area of focus. The platform claims it has seen an 81% year-on-year increase in video streaming among Gen Z users, they also account for 57% of Spotify’s audiobook listeners, and are more likely than others to use its ‘AI DJ’ product, introduced last year.

Spotify wants to help users to express their fandom by enabling comments on podcasts and making it easier for artists to share content. This, in turn, is making it easier for brands to target communities on the platform.

User engagement varies over the course of the average day. Audio podcast consumption on

Spotify spikes in the morning and music streaming climbs towards lunchtime, whereas video podcast viewing is more likely at night.

In light of YouTube’s growing presence in the podcast space, Spotify is eager to position itself as

more than just an audio platform. Spotify claims to have seen a 44% year-on-year increase in video

streams over the last 18 months, with a growing number of users watching podcast content. Gen Zs are leading this growth, spending 136% more time with video on Spotify year-on-year.

However, video podcast consumption habits appear to differ by market and region. According to a YouGov study, around a quarter of US adults say they prefer to watch video podcasts. This share drops to around one in eight (13%) adults in the UK.

Performance: Combining video and audio advertising formats boosts sales by 66% and purchase intent by 27%
As Spotify looks beyond its roots, the streamer is keen to convey that combining video and audio advertising formats on its platform can enhance campaign effectiveness. Spotify’s own research suggests a 66% boost to incremental sales and 27% higher purchase intent versus audio only campaigns.

Data from Spotify claims it can deliver a 27% higher average incremental unique weekly reach over commercial TV channels, and 22% incremental unique weekly reach on social platforms.

Audio streaming can have a tangible impact on shopping habits. Spotify argues it is uniquely positioned to be able to do so at all stages of the customer journey, given the role of the app throughout daily routines.

The role of attention in audio advertising effectiveness is only beginning to be explored. Spotify video ads averaged around 58% above Adelaide’s attention benchmark for online video, surpassing platforms including TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat.

Platform Insights: Spotify is part of a series of reports exclusive to WARC Media subscribers, which include an overview of platform investments, media consumption and performance insights. This latest report follows Platform Insights: Pinterest, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and Snapchat.

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RIOT Network and MediaTek collaboration expands digital access in South Africa through innovative, community-driven Wi-Fi solutions

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MediaTek

RIOT Network aims to make fast, unlimited Wi-Fi services accessible for people in townships and underserved communities

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, November 22, 2024/APO Group/ — 

MediaTek (www.MediaTek.com), a global fabless semiconductor company powering nearly 2 billion connected devices a year, and RIOT Network (https://RIOT.Network), a community mobile broadband provider in South Africa, have announced the successful integration of Mediatek’s Filogic 830 (https://apo-opa.co/3CIbkNl) chipset into RIOT’s second-generation CROWDNet Core Nodes.

The successful deployment of the CROWDNet nodes has enabled RIOT Network to achieve its aim of offering uncapped internet at an affordable price of R99 per month, and to do so profitably. To date, RIOT Network, in partnership with Sonke Telecommunications, has leveraged the nodes to connect more than 800 households and 5000 users in Olievenhoutbosch to uncapped Wi-Fi services.

RIOT Network aims to make fast, unlimited Wi-Fi services accessible for people in townships and underserved communities. Its CROWDNet Nodes, enable an innovative model for deploying user-operated network infrastructure. Community members serve as operators of some of the core network devices to earn a share of the fee from neighbours who use the service.

With each new connection, RIOT Network is highlighting the role of innovative fixed-wireless solutions in extending broadband access and improving digital inclusivity

CROWDNet powered by MediaTek Filogic 830 brings affordable, last-kilometre broadband to communities where it is not commercially viable to deploy towers or fibre. The MediaTek Filogic 830 is a high-performance SoC for routers, repeaters, access points and mesh networking devices. The SoC enables device makers to build-in powerful applications based on an energy-efficient, Wi-Fi 6-ready platform.

“The Mediatek’s Filogic 830 chipset delivers a unique balance of high performance and cost-efficiency, allowing us to keep operational costs low while maximising network reliability and speed,” said Jarryd Bekker, CEO at RIOT Network. “This combination of affordability and sustainable business growth is pivotal to our vision of expanding digital access in underserved communities. Our work in Olievenhoutbosch near Centurion demonstrates the power of reliable, affordable internet, creating new opportunities for economic and social engagement.”

“With each new connection, RIOT Network is highlighting the role of innovative fixed-wireless solutions in extending broadband access and improving digital inclusivity,” said Rami Osman (https://apo-opa.co/4ghZBUn), Director for Business Development, MediaTek Middle East and Africa. “We look forward to supporting RIOT in building a future where high-quality internet is accessible and impactful for all.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MediaTek Inc

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African Energy Chamber (AEC) Endorses Inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum, Catalyzing Growth in the Republic of Congo’s Energy Sector

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African Energy Chamber

The African Energy Chamber proudly supports the inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum, scheduled for March 25-26, 2025 in Brazzaville

BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of the Congo, November 21, 2024/APO Group/ — 

The African Energy Chamber (AEC), as the voice of Africa’s energy sector, proudly supports the inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF), set to take place in Brazzaville on March 25-26, 2025. Unveiled during African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies in Cape Town by the Republic of Congo’s Ministry of Hydrocarbons, this milestone event signals the nation’s commitment to strengthening its role as a key energy player on the continent, while showcasing a range of investment opportunities. 

Under the leadership of Hydrocarbons Minister Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, the Republic of Congo has emerged as sub-Saharan Africa’s fourth-largest oil producer, with anticipated production of 280,000 barrels per day (BPD) by the end of 2024 and ambitions to reach 500,000 BPD within three to five years. Building on this momentum, the CEIF will highlight innovative projects and foster strategic partnerships that enhance investment, drive economic growth and position the Congo as a leader in Africa’s energy expansion.

Meanwhile, Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo (SNPC), led by CEO Maixent Raoul Ominga, is spearheading the Congo’s energy growth. SNPC holds a majority stake in the Mengo Kundji Bindi II permit, with 2.5 billion barrels of estimated oil potential. The company is developing the site through 13 wells, 3D seismic data acquisition, and the construction of six production platforms. 

We are honored to secure the Chamber’s endorsement for this pivotal forum

With the Chamber’s official support, the CEIF is set to attract government leaders, C-suite executives from major IOCs and energy experts, who will offer critical insights into Congo’s oil, gas and energy sector developments. The country is overhauling its gas sector to unlock 10 trillion cubic feet of resources through a comprehensive Gas Master Plan and new Gas Code that introduces favorable fiscal terms and enables small-scale project development, as well as large-scale, integrated gas megaprojects like Eni’s Congo LNG and Wing Wah’s Bango Kayo. 

“The Congo Energy & Investment Forum marks a major milestone for the country, amplifying its strategic energy initiatives and showing industry stakeholders that it is serious about advancing its energy sector. We look forward to supporting this forum, which promises to connect investors, drive impactful partnerships and elevate the Congo’s position within Africa’s energy sector,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.  

“We are honored to secure the Chamber’s endorsement for this pivotal forum, which, through its vast network and influence, will help attract key stakeholders and decision-makers to the event. Together, we aim to highlight the immense potential of the Congo’s energy sector, foster strategic partnerships and drive transformative investments that contribute to sustainable growth across the industry,” notes James Chester, CEO of Energy Capital & Power, organizers of the CEIF.   

This premier forum provides a unique platform for connecting local and international investors with high-impact opportunities across a diversified range of energy projects, paving the way for collaborations that drive growth and transformation. The AEC’s endorsement underscores its commitment to fostering strategic partnerships, sustainable investment and regional cooperation, aligning with its broader mission to make energy poverty history across the continent by 2030.  

As the energy industry continues to serve as a critical pillar of the Congolese economy and a catalyst for sustainable development, the AEC remains dedicated to supporting initiatives like CEIF that foster progress, investment and partnerships across the African energy landscape. 

For more information, please visit www.CongoEnergyInvestment.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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Any Successful African Energy Policy at Conference of the Parties (COP) or Anywhere Must Have Oil and Gas at its Core (By NJ Ayuk)

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Conference of the Parties

Africa will need global financial systems, including multilateral development banks, to play a significant role in financing our energy growth which must include fossil fuels

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JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, November 21, 2024/APO Group/ — 

By NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (www.EnergyChamber.org).

I believe the ultimate responsibility for getting there is ours and no one else’s. Yes, we need partners to walk alongside us, but the success of our energy movement rests on African shoulders.

To begin with, I would love to see African energy stakeholders speaking in a unified voice about African energy industry goals.

This will be particularly important in COP29 in Baku. It is imperative that African leaders present a unified voice and strategy for African energy transitions. We must make Africa’s unique needs and circumstances clear and explain the critical role that oil and gas will play in helping Africa achieve net-zero emissions in coming decades.

I would encourage African leaders to talk about the need for financing, as well, to make it possible for us to adopt renewable energy sources and set up the necessary infrastructure. Africa will need global financial systems, including multilateral development banks, to play a significant role in financing our energy growth which must include fossil fuels.

Africa’s governments have a role to play in a successful African energy movement as well.

Because Africa’s energy industry still can benefit greatly from the presence of international oil companies, our government leaders need to approve contracts with oil and gas companies promptly instead of allowing red tape to delay projects after discoveries are made.

And, they need to offer the kinds of fiscal policies that allow oil companies to operate profitably in Africa. In turn, that will help those companies generate revenue, create jobs and business opportunities, and foster capacity building.

I also would encourage governments and civil societies to reward companies that exemplify positive behavior. Let’s incentivize the kind of activities we want, from creating good jobs and training opportunities to sharing knowledge.

I would love to see African energy stakeholders speaking in a unified voice about African energy industry goals

And there’s more.

We in Africa must work together to create more opportunities for women to build careers in the oil and gas industry at all levels. Our energy industry can’t reach its potential to do good when half of our population is left out. Our progress on behalf of women has not been great—We need to do better, and we need to act quickly.

How the world can support

Now, I mean it when I say Africans are responsible for building the future they want. But, I would love to see Western governments, businesses, financial institutions, and organizations support our efforts.

How? They can avoid demonizing the oil and gas industry. We see it constantly, in the media, in policy and investment decisions, and in calls for Africa to leave our fossil fuels in the ground. Actions like these, even as Western leaders have pushed OPEC to produce oil, are not fair, and they’re not helpful.

I also would respectfully ask financial institutions to resume financing for African oil and gas projects and stop attempting to block projects like the East African Crude Oil pipeline or Mozambique’s LNG projects.

Please understand that with the war in Ukraine, the energy crisis in Europe, and the energy poverty facing our continent, our countries, like many others, are simply choosing the paths they believe are most likely to help their people.

You know, people for years have accused me of loving oil and gas companies more than Africa. The opposite is true. In my frequent travels around the continent, I’ve observed far too many young people with little in the way of opportunities.

I know our young people have aspirations for a better future. I know they have big dreams. And, I know that future is nearly within their grasp.

A thriving, strategically managed energy industry can make it possible for many of these young people, whether it leads to good jobs or it fosters the kind of economic growth that creates jobs in other fields. Even if we only get the lights on in their communities, we’ll be giving our young people hope and improving their chances of realizing their goals.

This is what drives me, the idea that with our ongoing efforts and determination, our young people can realize meaningful opportunities. I encourage each of you to work with us at the African Energy Chamber, in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect. Together, we can build the kind of African energy movement that our continent, our communities, and our young people need and deserve.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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