From popcorn to petitions: Are pre-movie ads turning viewers into involuntary revenue streams?

As per MIB Guidelines, exceeding 10 minutes of advertisements breaches the Ministry’s stipulated norms. (Image source: Moneycontrol)

If a consumer is not given clear information about how long ads will last, or if the delay significantly affects their experience, it can be argued that the multiplex has engaged in misleading conduct, which is actionable under consumer forums.

Toy Boom: How playtime is powering a $3 billion industry

The toy imports have declined by 52%, while exports have surged by an impressive 239%.

Government initiatives like the Quality Control Order (QCO) and higher import tariffs have boosted local manufacturing, reducing imports by 52% and increasing exports by 239%. E-commerce and quick commerce are reshaping sales, while global giants remain strong competitors.

Global Ads Spotlight: Michael CeraVe’s ultimate skincare prank that stole the Super Bowl thunder

From fake news to Cera’s hilarious "proof" of his involvement, the campaign masterfully kept audiences hooked. (Images: Ogilvy)

A conspiracy, A skincare legend, And Super Bowl shenanigans—how CeraVe made its big, bold play? Read and watch in our Global Ads Spotlight column.

Delhi HC grants tax exemption to Indian Broadcasting & Digital Foundation

The Assessing Officer (AO) had denied IBDF’s claim under Sections 11 and 12 after the organization purchased shares in BARC worth ₹15 lakh and allocated ₹45 lakh as share application money.

The High Court also upheld IBDF’s argument that its role in the formation and promotion of BARC was neither voluntary nor discretionary but was mandated by the Central government’s policy, as supported by recommendations from both TRAI and the Standing Committee of Parliament.

F&B consumer complaints double in 2024, reaching 53,228: Ministry of Consumer Affairs

FSSAI analysed 170513 samples in 2024; Rs 77 crore penalty raised, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs revealed.

In 2024, the National Consumer Helpline received 53,228 consumer complaints (under food and beverages) as compared with 27,754 complaints in 2023 and 17,389 in 2022, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution notified the parliament on March 26.

NCLAT postpones CCI case against WhatsApp, Meta over privacy policy

NCLAT is set to determine whether CCI's jurisdiction overlaps with new data protection rules in WhatsApp privacy case.

NCLAT has postponed hearing CCI’s case against WhatsApp and Meta (of 2021) on the back of upcoming Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Rules. The tribunal is set to determine whether CCI’s jurisdiction overlaps with new data protection rules.

EXPLAINED: What scrapping the 6% Equalisation Levy could mean for Big Tech, India, and Domestic Media

One of the lesser-discussed ripple effects of the Equalisation Levy has been its role in nudging brands toward domestic alternatives. Rising costs and tax complexities have made Indian platforms more attractive than before, not just as fillers, but as strategic choices. (Image sourced from Moneycontrol)(Image sourced from Moneycontrol)

If the proposal is approved, foreign digital giants like Google and Meta who together account for nearly 65% of India’s Rs 50,000 crore digital advertising market stand to benefit indirectly, as advertisers would face lower overall costs when placing ads on their platforms.