The paradox of Gen Alpha, influencers influencing, and metaverse dating

The Moments Matrix is a guide to what’s trending on the world’s leading social media sites. Find out what’s going viral and what's here to stay across mainstream and niche topics.

This week's matrix has been compiled by Nichefire.

Image by: The Social Intelligence Lab

The impact of mega influencers
You have probably heard of the Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift dating rumors. But the most prominent aspect of this story has been the immense impact is Taylor Swift's impact on everything around this story - such as sales for Travis Kelce jerseys skyrocketing and the new Heinz Ketchup and "Seemingly Ranch" condiment, inspired by Taylor Swift. Taylor Swift is a mega influencer - her impact does more than moves her fans, she can impact economies (especially with her Eras Tour and the new concert movie in theaters), and even political movements (she caused an uptick in voter registration after sharing content encouraging people to vote).
Data source: TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, news/media, Google

Welcome Gen Alpha to social media
Gen Alpha turns 13, which means Gen Alpha can *officially* join social media (although some have joined early despite the age restriction). As a result, trending content from the generation has been picking up. Things like the "skibidi toilet" trend have been picking up on YouTube Shorts and TikTok due to its catchy music and strange vibe.
Data Source: TikTok, YouTube Shorts

Anime is taking over
You likely have heard of anime - but you may not be aware of the fact it is one of the most prominent types of content out there. Growing with immense popularity among Millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha - streaming platforms have been opening up their repertoire of content to entice more anime fans. Shows, like anime adaptations of Devil May Cry and the latest episodes of Jujutsu Kaisen are drawing fans in droves.
Data Source: Streaming platforms, Google, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram

#ScaryTikTok on the rise ahead of Halloween
This trend involves users participating in various scary challenges on TikTok, such as the "Ghost Hunt Challenge" or the "Haunted House Challenge." These challenges often require users to visit spooky locations or perform eerie tasks, creating a thrilling and suspenseful experience.
Data source: TikTok

Phenylephrine's Ineffectiveness as a Nasal Decongestant
Recent FDA advisory panel findings have revealed that oral phenylephrine, a common ingredient in cold and flu medications, is not effective at relieving nasal congestion. This controversy has sparked discussions among medical experts and consumers alike. Several class action lawsuits have been filed against manufacturers, including CVS and P&G, claiming that their phenylephrine products are ineffective. These legal actions highlight the dissatisfaction and potential harm caused by these products.
Data source: Twitter/X, news/media, Google

Second Republican Debates Losing Steam
The second Republican primary debate witnessed a significant decline in TV viewership, marking the lowest ratings for any Republican presidential debate since Donald Trump entered the political arena. Former President Donald Trump's decision to skip this Republican primary debate has sparked controversy and raised questions about his involvement in the race. This move has significant implications for the dynamics of the debate and the overall Republican campaign. This trend highlights a potential shift in public interest and engagement with the debates.
Data source: news/media, Twitter/X, Google

UAW Strike: Growing Labor Movement for Fair Wages and Workers' Rights
The UAW strike represents a significant trend in the labor movement, with workers demanding fair wages and improved working conditions. This strike has gained attention and support from various industries, including Hollywood writers and actors, highlighting the growing solidarity among workers.
Data Source: Twitter/X, News/Media, Google

Controversial 'Alien Corpses' Unveiled in Mexico's Congress
The presentation of alleged extraterrestrial remains in Mexico's Congress has sparked intense debate and controversy. Skeptics question the authenticity of the bodies, while believers argue that this could be groundbreaking evidence of alien life. Regardless, this has sparked numerous memes across the web.
Data Source: Instagram, Facebook, News/media, Twitter/X

Dark & Darker video game series celebrates an anniversary
The popular PC game Dark and Darker is celebrating its one year anniversary with an in-game community event. The game has gained some notable attention after almost being shut down as a result of a now-dismissed lawsuit with Nexon. Community growth on platforms like Reddit and Discord have been skyrocketing.
Data source: Reddit, Discord

Apple's $2B Bid for Formula 1 Streaming Rights
Apple is considering a massive bid to secure the global streaming rights for Formula 1 racing. This potential deal, valued at $2 billion per year, would double the current TV rights revenue for the sport - which has been growing immensely in popularity.
Data source: news/media, Twitter/X

The Rise of Metaverse Dating
Metaverse dating is becoming a disruptive trend in the online dating industry. With virtual reality and immersive experiences, users can explore new ways of finding love and forming connections.
Data source: news/media, Discord

Surge in FuboTV interest
FuboTV is gaining popularity with consumers as a streaming alternative to traditional cable TV, offering consumers a chance to buy the cable package without going through the cable company. Its stock has experienced a significant increase of 48% this year, indicating growing investor interest in the virtual cable provider.
Data source: news/media, Google

Exports impact on education
High schools and colleges are establishing esports programs that focus on academic and career development for students interested in gaming. These programs provide opportunities for students to pursue their passion for esports while gaining valuable knowledge and skills.
Data source: News/media, Reddit

Financial literacy for cryptocurrency
Academics from the University of Cincinnati have developed a Crypto Literacy Scale to measure the educational proficiency of investors in the cryptocurrency market. This scale aims to enhance financial literacy and provide insights into the knowledge levels of cryptocurrency investors. With the rise of cryptocurrency, many have sought to learn more about this topic to determine if they should invest.
Data source: Reddit, news/media

Nostalgic flavors in soda
The emergence of nostalgic flavors like cream soda, bubble gum, and strawberries and cream in beverages suggest old soda flavors are making a comeback or being missed by the community. The resurgence of nostalgic flavors have been on the rise in many categories of food and bev.
Data source: Reddit, Twitter/X

AI's impact on fashion design
The use of artificial intelligence in designing streetwear collections, with algorithms predicting fashion trends has been on the rise. Nike leads this trend with an innovative approach to footwear design that involves utilizing AI and 3D printing technology to create shoes that are both stylish and environmentally friendly. This trend represents the intersection of sustainability, technology, and fashion.
Data Source: Twitter/X, news/media, Reddit

The offline lifestyle for Gen Alpha
Concerns are rising about the declining happiness and life satisfaction of Gen Alpha, the generation born after 2010. Driven by increased exposure to digital devices, depression rates have risen among Gen Alpha, highlighting the urgent need to protect them from the potential dangers of excessive screen time. As a result, Gen Alpha is adopting more of an offline lifestyle in 2023, moving away from the tech-obsessed label that has often been associated with them. This trend indicates a shift in Gen Alpha's lifestyle choices, possibly focusing more on real-world experiences.
Data Source: news/media

Rise of organised retail theft
A surge in organized retail crime has led to a series of looting incidents in Philadelphia, with multiple businesses being targeted and damaged. The looting has sparked controversy and raised concerns about public safety. But there has been a declining sympathy for retailers regarding theft due to wage disparities and inflation. Theft has been prominent enough for stores, like Target, to shudder stores due to theft.
Data Source: TikTok, News/media, YouTube, Reddit

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