Latest news with #BBBNationalPrograms
Yahoo
22-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
National Advertising Division Recommends Clearer Disclosure of Affiliate Advertising Relationship for Certain Reviews on TrustedCompanyReviews.com
BBB NATIONAL PROGRAMS Through its advertising monitoring program, BBB National Programs' National Advertising Division inquired about the rankings of debt consolidation companies by EIA Marketing on the review website The National Advertising Division (NAD) recommended that the material connection between EIA Marketing and companies listed in reviews that are affiliate partners be more clearly disclosed for certain reviews. New York, NY, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Through its advertising monitoring program, BBB National Programs' National Advertising Division inquired about the rankings of debt consolidation companies by EIA Marketing on the review website The National Advertising Division (NAD) recommended that the material connection between EIA Marketing and companies listed in reviews that are affiliate partners be more clearly disclosed for certain reviews. At issue for NAD was whether the format of the challenged advertising reasonably communicates the implied message that the debt consolidation rankings on the website are independent and objective instead of advertising for the top-rated product. NAD noted that some of the reviews on are those of EIA Marketing's affiliate partners (including the #1 rated debt consolidation company). Even assuming that the partner status of a company did not influence the ranking, NAD found that because TrustedCompanyReviews receives compensation from affiliate partners, the review is not impartial and constitutes advertising for that affiliate partner. NAD was concerned that consumers may not understand, based on the format of the webpage, that they are seeing advertising content for the rated company. NAD determined that the disclosure at the top of the webpage, 'The listings featured on this site are from companies from which this site receives compensation. This influences where, how, and in what order such listings appear on this site,' is not clear and conspicuous. Further, after scrolling down one page, the 'Advertiser Disclosure' is a hover-over disclosure that consumers may miss. NAD also noted that a pop-up advertisement for Accredited Debt Relief obscured the rest of the content on the webpage and referred to its top ranking and an invitation to access its plans. NAD recommended that EIA Marketing:
Forbes
17-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Cross-Border Industry Self-Regulation: Global Models And Implications
Eric Reicin, President & CEO of BBB National Programs, a nonprofit organization dedicated to a more accountable, trustworthy marketplace. In our interconnected world, industries such as technology, digital advertising and artificial intelligence operate across national borders with unprecedented ease. These borderless operations bring vast opportunities for leaders to promote innovation, but they also create regulatory challenges. That is because traditional, jurisdiction-bound regulatory frameworks often struggle to keep pace with the rapid evolution and global scope of technology. That is why industry self-regulation offers a powerful, flexible and potentially harmonizing force—one that can bridge the divide between disparate legal systems and foster international cooperation. U.S. Leadership In Industry Self-Regulation The United States has long championed the role of industry-led self-regulation, and as I have written in these pages, there is now a timely opportunity for industry self-regulation in an age of deregulation. For more than 50 years, programs such as our BBB National Programs' National Advertising Division and Children's Advertising Review Unit have exemplified how voluntary standards, third-party oversight and transparent enforcement can provide effective consumer protection and foster responsible business practices. These models have not only filled regulatory gaps but also built stakeholder trust. Importantly, these programs demonstrate a core set of principles—transparency, accountability and independence—that transcend borders. As other countries develop or refine their own regulatory systems, U.S.-based self-regulatory models serve as adaptable blueprints. They offer scalable solutions that can be tailored to different legal and cultural contexts. The Global Regulatory Landscape: Tensions And Opportunities The global regulatory environment is undergoing a transformation markedly different than the deregulatory environment we are seeing in the U.S. The European Union's Artificial Intelligence Act, for example, sets out comprehensive rules governing artificial intelligence, emphasizing risk management, data governance and transparency. Meanwhile, other jurisdictions, from Canada to Brazil to Japan, are advancing their own frameworks for digital services and AI. This patchwork of country and EU-specific regulations raises concerns about fragmentation and compliance complexity for global businesses. It also highlights the urgent need for interoperable standards. Here, self-regulation can play a crucial role. Industry-led codes of conduct, recognized across jurisdictions, can help align practices, reduce compliance burdens and facilitate cross-border data and technology flows. Self-regulation also enables quicker responses to emerging issues than formal legislation. In fast-moving sectors such as generative and agentic AI, where innovations can outpace regulatory timelines, voluntary frameworks provide a nimble mechanism to set norms and address risks proactively. Some countries, such as Singapore, use a "regulatory sandbox" approach, allowing businesses to experiment with AI in a controlled environment and develop industry-led guidelines. Beyond addressing the current pressing challenges of AI, several initiatives already illustrate the potential for self-regulation to operate on a global scale: • IEEE And ISO AI Ethics Standards: These efforts reflect collaborative, international approaches to establishing ethical guidelines for emerging technologies. In the case of IEEE, its standards apply to autonomous intelligence systems, while ISO sets the standard for standards, so to speak, with an array of initiatives going far beyond AI. • The International Chamber Of Commerce: The International Chamber of Commerce continually updates a comprehensive Advertising and Marketing Communications Code, outlining standards supporting legal, decent, honest and truthful advertising and marketing practices across many domains, including environmental marketing, digital marketing and marketing directed to children. • EU-U.S. Data Privacy Framework: While not self-regulatory per se, this Data Privacy Framework agreement incorporates elements of organizational accountability that could inform self-regulatory approaches to data governance. • International Council For Advertising Self-Regulation (ICAS): ICAS provides a platform for ad standards bodies and key industry stakeholders around the globe to align on self-regulatory practices to promote truthful, responsible and ethical advertising. And several ICAS member ad standards self-regulatory organizations, such as ASCI in India, ARPP in France and SRC in the Netherlands, have created social media 'influencer' training and certification programs to help ensure that brands and influencers are transparent and truthful about their marketing arrangements and claims. These examples show that self-regulation can complement formal regulation, fostering trust, compliance and innovation across borders. But to fully realize the potential of cross-border self-regulation, several considerations are worth underscoring: • Recognition And Integration: Governments and international organizations should formally recognize credible self-regulatory programs as part of their compliance ecosystems. • Capacity Building: Industries should invest in governance structures and independent oversight to ensure the integrity and credibility of self-regulatory initiatives. • Global Dialogue: Continuous engagement among regulators, industry leaders and civil society is critical to harmonize standards and address emerging challenges. As the global regulatory environment continues to evolve, self-regulation stands tall as a bridge—not a bypass—to effective governance. By fostering collaboration, accountability and innovation, self-regulatory models can help build a more integrated, trustworthy and responsive global ecosystem. Indeed, leaders should treat self-regulation as a strategic advantage, not merely a compliance obligation. By actively participating in or even helping shape self-regulatory initiatives, organizations can build trust, differentiate themselves in global markets and help reduce the risk of more burdensome government intervention. No doubt, regulatory fragmentation creates uncertainty. That is why businesses and nonprofits should build internal capacity to monitor and interpret international developments, not just local laws. This allows for informed adaptation and early alignment with emerging norms. Leaders may want to consider developing a cross-functional team (compliance, legal, risk, public policy) tasked with horizon scanning and scenario planning based on global developments, like the Digital India Act or when Brazil amps up enforcement of its data protection law. Leaders should also consider engaging in multi-stakeholder collaboration, investing in transparent and accountable governance and championing self-regulation as a policy option. Finally, leaders must articulate the strategic value of self-regulation to boards, investors, employees and the public. The world is watching how regulatory models evolve, particularly as transformative technologies such as generative and agentic AI reshape our societies. Self-regulation, grounded in proven principles and adapted to global realities, offers a pro-competitive path forward that balances the support of innovation with the enhancement of consumer trust. Now is the time for organizational leaders to embrace industry self-regulation as a meaningful cross-border policy option. Forbes Nonprofit Council is an invitation-only organization for chief executives in successful nonprofit organizations. Do I qualify?
Business Upturn
09-07-2025
- Business
- Business Upturn
National Advertising Division Finds Certain Claims for OLLY's Lovin' Libido Supplement Supported; Recommends Sensation Claim be Discontinued
New York, NY, July 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a challenge brought by competitor Bayer Healthcare LLC, BBB National Programs' National Advertising Division determined that Olly PBC provided a reasonable basis for claims made for its Lovin' Libido dietary supplement related to desire, drive, arousal, satisfaction and lubrication. However, the National Advertising Division (NAD) recommended that Olly discontinue its Lovin' Libido claim related to sensation. Bayer and Olly are competitors that each market a variety of dietary supplements to consumers. Bayer challenged claims made by Olly that touted the sexual benefits of Olly's Lovin' Libido product that relate to ashwagandha, an ingredient in the product. NAD reviewed Olly's advertising to determine whether it conveyed the message that the Lovin' Libido product, rather than the individual ingredient ashwagandha, provided the claimed benefits. Of the eight express claims, five specifically named ashwagandha as providing the expected benefit. The three remaining challenged claims did not specifically reference ashwagandha, but appear in contexts that make clear that ashwagandha is the source of the claimed benefits. NAD determined that in this context, reasonable consumers would interpret the claims as attributing the product benefits to ashwagandha. Based on Olly's express messaging in its ads, NAD further determined that the Lovin' Libido product is marketed towards women who are uninterested in and unsatisfied with sex. NAD reviewed the evidence to determine if it supported a reasonable basis that ashwagandha provides the claimed benefits to that target population of women. In support of its claims, Olly provided seven randomized clinical trials (RCTs) studying the sexual health benefits of ashwagandha root extract. NAD determined that one study did not adequately support the claimed sexual health benefits due to its focus on perimenopausal women and thus could not qualify as competent and reliable support for the challenged claims. NAD found that the six additional studies provided a reasonable basis for Olly's claims about the sexual health benefits of ashwagandha in its Lovin' Libido product. However, NAD noted that none of the RCTs directly addressed the specific claimed benefit of enhanced 'sensation.' Accordingly, NAD determined that Olly provided a reasonable basis for its claims related to desire, drive, arousal, satisfaction and lubrication, but determined that the studies are not a good fit to support claims related to sensation and recommended that the reference to sensation be discontinued. During the proceeding, Olly voluntarily discontinued certain Lovin' Libido claims. Therefore, NAD did not review these claims on their merits and will treat them, for compliance purposes, as though NAD recommended they be discontinued. In its advertiser statement, Olly stated that it will comply with NAD's recommendations. All BBB National Programs case decision summaries can be found in the case decision library. For the full text of NAD, NARB, and CARU decisions, subscribe to the online archive. Per NAD/NARB Procedures, this release may not be used for advertising or promotional purposes. About BBB National Programs: BBB National Programs, a non-profit organization, is the home of U.S. independent industry self-regulation, currently operating more than 20 globally recognized programs that have been helping enhance consumer trust in business for more than 50 years. These programs provide third-party accountability and dispute resolution services that address existing and emerging industry issues, promote fair competition for businesses, and a better experience for consumers. BBB National Programs continues to evolve its work and grow its impact by providing business guidance and fostering best practices in arenas such as advertising, child-and-teen-directed marketing, data privacy, dispute resolution, automobile warranty, technology, and emerging areas. To learn more, visit About the National Advertising Division: The National Advertising Division of BBB National Programs provides independent self-regulation and dispute resolution services, guiding the truthfulness of advertising across the U.S. The National Advertising Division reviews national advertising in all media and its decisions set consistent standards for advertising truth and accuracy, delivering meaningful protection to consumers and promoting fair competition for business. Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
In National Advertising Division Challenge, Bayview Pharmacy Voluntarily Discontinues Claims for its Compounded Semaglutide
BBB National Programs' National Advertising Division reviewed a challenge brought by Novo Nordisk Inc. regarding express and implied advertising claims made by Bayview Pharmacy Inc. for its compounded semaglutide products. New York, NY, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BBB National Programs' National Advertising Division reviewed a challenge brought by Novo Nordisk Inc. regarding express and implied advertising claims made by Bayview Pharmacy Inc. for its compounded semaglutide products. Novo Nordisk is a global pharmaceutical company specializing in diabetes care, including insulin and related products, as well as other chronic conditions including obesity, rare diseases, and cardiovascular conditions. Novo Nordisk is the sole manufacturer of the only FDA-approved semaglutide medicines: Ozempic® and Wegovy®. Bayview, a compounding pharmacy, marketed five concentrations of compounded semaglutide product for sublingual application for blood-sugar control and weight loss on its website. Novo Nordisk argued that Bayview's advertising conveyed misleading messages, including that its compounded 'semaglutide' sublingual suspensions are Ozempic® and/or is the same as a generic version of Ozempic®. In addition, Novo Nordisk argued that Bayview makes several misleading superiority claims about the bioavailability of its compounded semaglutide sublingual suspension. During the inquiry, Bayview informed the National Advertising Division (NAD) that it had permanently discontinued the challenged claims. Therefore, NAD did not review the claims on their merits and will treat the discontinued claims, for compliance purposes, as though NAD recommended they be discontinued. In its advertiser statement, Bayview stated it 'will comply with NAD's recommendations' and that it 'appreciates NAD's guidance.' All BBB National Programs case decision summaries can be found in the case decision library. For the full text of NAD, NARB, and CARU decisions, subscribe to the online archive. Per NAD/NARB Procedures, this release may not be used for promotional purposes. About BBB National Programs: BBB National Programs, a non-profit organization, is the home of U.S. independent industry self-regulation, currently operating more than 20 globally recognized programs that have been helping enhance consumer trust in business for more than 50 years. These programs provide third-party accountability and dispute resolution services that address existing and emerging industry issues, create fair competition for businesses, and a better experience for consumers. BBB National Programs continues to evolve its work and grow its impact by providing business guidance and fostering best practices in arenas such as advertising, child-and-teen-directed marketing, data privacy, dispute resolution, automobile warranty, technology, and emerging areas. To learn more, visit About the National Advertising Division: The National Advertising Division (NAD) of BBB National Programs provides independent self-regulation and dispute resolution services, guiding the truthfulness of advertising across the U.S. NAD reviews national advertising in all media and its decisions set consistent standards for advertising truth and accuracy, delivering meaningful protection to consumers and create fair competition for business. CONTACT: Name: Jennie Rosenberg Email: jrosenberg@ Job Title: Media RelationsSign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Following National Advertising Division Inquiry, Ezra AI Voluntarily Discontinues Claims for Full Body MRI Medical Service
In a BBB National Programs National Advertising Division challenge brought by Prenuvo, Inc., Ezra AI Inc. voluntarily discontinued comparative advertising claims for its Medical Service: Full Body MRI. New York, NY, May 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In a BBB National Programs National Advertising Division challenge brought by Prenuvo, Inc., Ezra AI Inc. voluntarily discontinued comparative advertising claims for its Medical Service: Full Body MRI. Prenuvo and Ezra are competitors in whole-body medical MRI scans. Prenuvo challenged claims on Ezra's website comparing the services offered by Ezra to those offered by Prenuvo, arguing that Ezra's advertising misleadingly conveyed the unsupported message that Ezra's services are superior to those offered by Prenuvo. During the challenge, Ezra voluntarily permanently discontinued all of the challenged claims. The voluntarily discontinued claims will be treated, for compliance purposes, as though NAD recommended they be discontinued. In its advertiser statement, Ezra stated it 'agrees to comply with NAD's recommendations, which were voluntarily undertaken by Ezra.' All BBB National Programs case decision summaries can be found in the case decision library. For the full text of NAD, NARB, and CARU decisions, subscribe to the online archive. Per NAD/NARB Procedures, this release may not be used for promotional purposes. About BBB National Programs: BBB National Programs, a non-profit organization, is the home of U.S. independent industry self-regulation, currently operating more than 20 globally recognized programs that have been helping enhance consumer trust in business for more than 50 years. These programs provide third-party accountability and dispute resolution services that address existing and emerging industry issues, create fair competition for businesses and a better experience for consumers. BBB National Programs continues to evolve its work and grow its impact by providing business guidance and fostering best practices in arenas such as advertising, child-and-teen-directed marketing, data privacy, dispute resolution, automobile warranty, technology, and emerging areas. To learn more, visit About the National Advertising Division: The National Advertising Division (NAD) of BBB National Programs provides independent self-regulation and dispute resolution services, guiding the truthfulness of advertising across the U.S. NAD reviews national advertising in all media and its decisions set consistent standards for advertising truth and accuracy, delivering meaningful protection to consumers and promoting fair competition for business. CONTACT: Name: Jennie Rosenberg Email: jrosenberg@ Job Title: Media RelationsError in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
