Latest news with #Bumble
Sky News AU
a day ago
- Business
- Sky News AU
Meghan Markle reportedly earned paltry $40,000 from Confessions of a Female Founder podcast
Meghan Markle reportedly earned just $40,000 from her Confessions of a Female Founder podcast amid speculation the series will not return to the airwaves. Markle, 43, launched Confessions of a Female Founder in April as a weekly series in which the ex-working royal chats to high-profile businesswomen. The Duchess of Sussex spoke to the likes of Bumble's Whitney Wolfe Herd, Cassandra Thurswell of Kitsch and IT Cosmetics' Jamie Kern Lima for the project. Markle also used the podcast as a platform to interview the heads of companies she has a financial stake in, including Clevr Blends' Hannah Mendoza and Kadi Lee of Highbrow Hippie. Journalist and 'To Di For' podcast host Kinsey Schofield told Sky News Australia that Markle earned about $40,000 for the Lemonada podcast. 'Meghan's made approximately $40,000 for season one of Confessions of a Female Founder,' Ms Schofield told Sky News host Caroline Di Russo. 'Not exactly Spotify money, and if she's trying to be a billionaire, I think she's going to have to hustle a little harder.' By comparison, Markle and her husband Prince Harry reportedly pocketed a multi-million dollar payment from Spotify for a doomed partnership that crumbled two years ago. Reportedly, the Spotify deal collapsed after the Sussexes missed production benchmarks and complaints from inside the streaming giant that the couple were 'f***ing grifters'. The surprising figure comes after the ex-working royal "wrapped up" the Lemonada series on Tuesday after just eight episodes. Markle interviewed Spanx founder Sara Blakely and mused about her 'guilt' over her wealth in the "last" episode. "I think so many women especially, we're taught to not even talk about money, and there's lots of guilt mentality surrounding having a lot,' Markle said. At the end of the episode, Markle appeared to call time on the series and thanked her listeners for their support. "Well, that's a wrap," Markle said. "Thanks for your support as you heard my story, little bits of it.' The announcement coincided with a gushing new feature on the Duchess of Sussex published by business outlet Fast Company. 'There's interest in doing a second season of Confessions of a Female Founder, and many female founders have approached her to be a guest on the series,' the article said. 'But Meghan is now involved in such a wide range of projects, she's sure to find some way to tell her story.' In a twist, Markle made a major U-turn on Friday and opted to announce a surprise 'bonus' episode of the series featuring an unknown 'matriarch'. Instead of profiling another businesswoman, Markle returned to her showbiz routes by interviewing Tina Knowles Lawson – the mother of popstar Beyonce.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Bumble Inc. (BMBL): A Bull Case Theory
We came across a bullish thesis on Bumble Inc. (BMBL) on @catapultcap on X (Twitter). In this article, we will summarize the bulls' thesis on BMBL. Bumble Inc. (BMBL)'s share was trading at $5.72 as of 23rd May. BMBL's trailing and forward P/E were 18.79 and 9.64 respectively according to Yahoo Finance. Photo by Good Faces Agency on Unsplash Online dating is currently experiencing a correction, with total monthly active users (MAUs) across major apps dropping to levels last seen in 2018. Despite losing the initial hype and novelty that followed Tinder's launch, and growing awareness of some drawbacks, the fundamental appeal of online dating remains strong. It has become the primary way people meet, surpassing traditional methods such as introductions by friends, meeting at bars, or at work. This shift is unlikely to reverse, meaning the industry's MAUs are expected to bottom out and return to growth in the coming years. Within this evolving landscape, more 'serious' platforms like Bumble and Hinge are poised to gain market share, while apps perceived as spammy, like Tinder, may lose ground. This expectation is supported by the belief that Bumble trades at an attractive valuation of less than seven times unlevered earnings, making it a compelling investment opportunity amid the sector's correction. Previously, we have covered Bumble, Inc. (BMBL) in April 2025, wherein we summarized a bullish thesis by DeepValueInsights on the Value Investing Subreddit Page. DeepValueInsights highlighted that the stock was deeply undervalued, trading at just 5.1x EV/EBITDA and generating a strong 25% free cash flow yield despite recent net losses. The company maintained solid cash reserves and capital discipline through buybacks, and while debt refinancing posed some risks, its strong brand and user base suggested meaningful long-term upside potential. However, the article noted that other AI stocks might offer greater returns in a shorter timeframe. Since our previous coverage, the stock is up 30.59% as of 26th May. Bumble Inc. (BMBL) is not on our list of the 30 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. As per our database, 33 hedge fund portfolios held BMBL at the end of the fourth quarter which was 31 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the risk and potential of BMBL as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns, and doing so within a shorter timeframe. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than BMBL but that trades at less than 5 times its earnings, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock. READ NEXT: 8 Best Wide Moat Stocks to Buy Now and 30 Most Important AI Stocks According to BlackRock. Disclosure: None. This article was originally published at Insider Monkey. Error 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
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Tinder's new CEO wants to shed its hookup rep for Gen Z
It's no secret that singles have been disenchanted with dating apps lately. Users complain that apps are copying each other with similar features and encourage bad behavior like ghosting, and they're trying to branch out into IRL activities instead (even dungeon sound baths). Tinder's upcoming CEO, Spencer Rascoff, seems well aware of these feelings. In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Rascoff — currently CEO of Tinder's parent company, Match Group — said he wants to change the app and its reputation. SEE ALSO: Comparing AI features for Bumble, Hinge, and Tinder "Think of Tinder like a bar where people come together to meet new people," he told the Wall Street Journal. "We have to innovate to drive more people into our establishment, and that means renovating our bar." Rascoff told investors last month that Gen Z isn't into hookups, and Tinder needs to adapt to this reality, the Wall Street Journal reported. Young adults are having less sex and drinking less than their older peers were at their age, Rascoff cited. Featured Video For You How Tinder and other dating apps use algorithms to find your match — Horny on Main Tinder has long been known as the "hookup app," even blamed for the "dating apocalypse" as far back as 2015. Dating apps have undoubtedly changed the way people meet each other: according to a 2023 Pew Research Center study, around one in 10 partnered adults in the U.S. met their partner on a dating app or site, and that number doubles for people under 30 and LGBTQ people. But dating apps are also regularly blamed for the culture around casual sex and superficial judgments of people. When someone has an abundance of choice with gamified dating, they may forget that behind the profile is a person. As Mashable previously reported, trust in dating apps has waned in recent years. Match Group was sued last year for claims that the apps are "predatory" and "addictive." (The lawsuit has since been sent to arbitration.) Rascoff is taking over for current Tinder CEO Faye Iosotaluno, who posted on LinkedIn last week that she'll step down in July 2025, after eight years at Match Group. Rascoff will lead both Match Group and Tinder. His plan is to lean into AI features and implement new product changes quickly, especially safety features. According to the Wall Street Journal, Rascoff wants an improved user experience even at the expense of short-term revenue. "Revenue growth matters, but it is an output of audience growth and improved user results," Rascoff shared in a LinkedIn post about Tinder's product principles moving forward. One of them is "failing fast": "We're making big bets, and that means we will undoubtedly make mistakes. What matters is how fast we learn and how we use failure to fuel what's next." It's uncertain whether these adjustments will change Tinder's public image, as the app has added more features for those looking for love in recent years. But given Gen Z's penchant for the internet, Tinder is likely here to stay.
NDTV
2 days ago
- NDTV
AI Is Taking Over Online Dating On Bumble, Happn, Tinder, Hinge. Is India Swiping Right?
Who gives the best relationship advice? Who makes sure to point out your mistakes and even helps you correct them? Who doesn't fight back and listens to your opinions patiently? These qualities might be tough to find in a partner (we know), but it seems like Gen Z, Gen Alpha, and even some Millennials have already found them-in AI. Whether it's ChatGPT or any other AI tool, they are quickly becoming our go-to not just for advice but also for conversations and emotional support. Today, it's far more likely that you'll shy away from showing your GPT chat history than your Google search history. But here's the big question: would you trust AI to actually help you find a partner, one who might even replace the AI's role in your life? Dating apps, even in India, are already heading in that direction. Instagram is filled with Reels that show how dependent we are becoming on GPT. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jessica Brugali (@mynameisjessb) Match Group, the company behind some of the biggest names in online dating, like Tinder and Hinge, has announced that it is increasing its investment in AI, with new features rolled out in March 2025. This AI will take over core dating tasks like selecting photos that are likely to get the most responses and suggesting what prompts and information to include in a profile bio. This AI assistant will also help users choose potential matches, offering a more curated experience from the very start. What Are Dating Apps Doing With AI, Anyway? AI usage in dating apps varies across platforms. Some are using it to take over basic tasks like choosing the best profile picture or crafting a profile bio, while others are using it more deeply to suggest matches based on your behaviour and preferences. In India, Bumble uses AI for both safety and engagement. It detects fake profiles, moderates images and assists users in conversations. Features like 'For You' and AI-generated icebreakers help enhance user experience. A Bumble spokesperson tells NDTV, "As AI becomes more integrated into the Bumble experience, we understand the responsibility that comes with it. This is why we continue to collaborate with trusted partners, such as our previous work with the Partnership on AI, to champion responsible and ethical AI practices." Hinge uses AI to offer a more personalised experience. It predicts potential matches based on behaviour, encouraging more intentional dating, as opposed to endless swiping. Tinder relies on AI to better understand user preferences based on profiles and photos. Its features like Photo Selector and The Game Game are designed to optimise profiles and improve conversations. The platform has also focused on using AI to improve safety and ensure respectful communication. In today's digital dating world, where most romantic connections start on a screen, AI has slowly become an essential part of enhancing user experience. Karima Ben Abdelmalek, CEO and President at Happn, says their platform sees AI as a way to support users, not replace human connection. "It helps analyse interests and behaviours, but dating is ultimately about human interactions. AI plays an important role in security, detecting fraudulent profiles, and creating a safer environment," he says. He adds that while Happn uses AI to improve safety and remove inappropriate content, "it cannot replicate empathy, intuition, or genuine emotional connection. Dating is, and will always be, a human experience." Chandni Gaglani, Head of Aisle Network - an Indian dating app focused on serious relationships - says AI plays an essential role in their app as well. "AI helps us optimise profile matches, prevent fraud, and improve safety. We have deeply integrated AI into our curation and safety systems. Our Data Model, trained by in-house experts, works alongside our team to vet every profile before it goes live," she shares. The Challenges Dating apps in AI might face several challenges. Abdelmalek believes the biggest challenge is finding the right balance - using AI as a support tool rather than letting it dominate the dating experience. "For us, AI should help people connect, not dictate the terms of those connections," he adds. With the rise of AI, has come the rise of scammers who exploit dating platforms with fake profiles and misleading content. According to Pew Research Center, 79% of users worry about how their data is being used. Meanwhile, many still feel AI isn't accurate enough to find a suitable partner (Remember AI algorithms can sometimes reinforce bias, unintentionally favouring certain demographics, which can lead to unfair matchmaking. Moreover, many users say AI-generated suggestions prioritise short-term attention over meaningful connections. Around 65% of users feel AI ends up recommending mismatched profiles. In fact, online fraud cases linked to deepfakes and AI-generated scams rose by 50% in 2024, further impacting trust. Can AI Really Find You A Partner? Dating app companies we spoke to are confident that AI can support users in their search for a match, but they admit that the final connection is still made by people, not machines. Shallu Chawla, a Delhi-based matchmaker and co-founder of Make My Lagan, has a different perspective on this. "There are many dating apps using AI today, but when it comes to truly connecting people, it's still humans who do it best," she says. "AI can look at behavioural patterns and interests, but it can't pick up on feelings or emotional cues. Matchmaking is about more than just matching preferences-it's about understanding personalities, family dynamics, and emotional needs. Only a person who has experienced similar things can do that well," Chawla shares. She adds that AI can't replace human matchmakers for several reasons: Emotional understanding: Humans can sense nervousness and pick up on unspoken feelings, something AI simply can't do. Personal touch: Matchmakers guide people with empathy and support throughout the process. Cultural and family awareness: Especially in the Indian context, where family plays a key role, human understanding is vital. Gut instinct: Sometimes a match just feels right-something no data set can predict. Sensitivity and discretion: Conversations about personal or sensitive topics require a human approach. How Are Indians Responding To AI In Dating Apps? AI is slowly becoming part of how Indians explore love and relationships. Many now use tools like GPT to understand their partner's behaviour, learn about attachment styles, or communicate more thoughtfully. These tools are being used for self-reflection and growth within relationships. However, when it comes to actually finding a long-term partner, there's still a gap in trusting AI completely. Gaglani points out that while AI is helpful, most users still want human oversight and transparency in the process. Abdelmalek, on the other hand, believes that although AI in dating still feels unfamiliar to some, users are slowly growing comfortable with it. "At Happn, we've seen increasing trust in AI-driven suggestions, as long as the process stays transparent and respectful," she says. A Final Swipe AI is undeniably changing the way people date. From writing better bios to spotting scams, it plays a useful and growing role in the online dating experience. For Indian users, it offers efficiency, safety, and personalisation. But while these advancements are promising, they're not a replacement for the human element. Love, after all, is not just about shared interests or a great profile photo. It's about chemistry, timing, understanding, and emotion-things that machines can't fully replicate. AI can point you in the right direction, but it's still up to you to decide whether you swipe left or right.
Sky News AU
3 days ago
- Business
- Sky News AU
'A wrap': The telltale sign Meghan Markle's podcast Confessions of a Female Founder is over after eight episodes
Meghan Markle's podcast Confessions of a Female Founder has wrapped up after just eight episodes with no announcement to indicate if the series will ever return to the airwaves. Markle, 43, launched Confessions of a Female Founder in April as a weekly series in which the ex-working royal chats to high-profile businesswomen. The Duchess of Sussex spoke to the likes of Bumble's Whitney Wolfe Herd, Cassandra Thurswell of Kitsch and IT Cosmetics' Jamie Kern Lima for the project. Markle also used the podcast as platform to interview the heads of companies she has a financial stake in, including Clevr Blends' Hannah Mendoza and Kadi Lee of Highbrow Hippie. Sara Blakely, the founder of Spanx was the guest on the eighth and final episode, in which Markle opened up about her 'guilt' over having money. "I think so many women especially, we're taught to not even talk about money, and there's lots of guilt mentality surrounding having a lot,' Markle mused. The podcast is Markle's second attempt at the audio medium after her old employer Spotify canned Archetypes and sacked her and her husband Prince Harry two years ago. Confessions was much maligned by critics, while the series completely disappeared from the Spotify charts just weeks after its debut. On Tuesday, the curtain came down for the 'first season' of the podcast, with Markle signing off and appearing to leave the future of the project in the dark. "Well, that's a wrap," Markle announced at the end of the episode. "Thanks for your support as you heard my story, little bits of it.' And with that, Markle's second foray into podcasting appeared to be over after eight weeks and about seven hours worth of audio content. The series was produced under boutique producer Lemonada media, reportedly for a tiny fraction of the old Spotify deal, and it is unclear if Markle has pocketed anything from the series at all. The release of the final episode of Markle's series coincided with a new feature on the Duchess of Sussex published by business outlet Fast Company. The article reads as a glowing testimonial on Markle's many erstwhile projects, with lines that appear to be pasted in straight from an email chain with the Sussexes' PR team. 'There's interest in doing a second season of Confessions of a Female Founder, and many female founders have approached her to be a guest on the series,' the article said. 'But Meghan is now involved in such a wide range of projects, she's sure to find some way to tell her story.'
