Latest news with #IPSOS
NDTV
a day ago
- General
- NDTV
India's Cheating Rate Falls 16% In 2 Years As Couples Choose Clarity Over Chaos, Says Survey
Infidelity in India is no longer taboo, a forbidden phenomenon that is brushed under the carpet. Acoording to a recent infidelity survey by Gleeden (a global extramarital dating app for women) with IPSOS as a research provider, there has been a 16 percent decline in physical infidelity in the country since 2023. What's more, 48 percent of respondents in 2025 reported cheating on their partner compared to 57 percent in 2020. The downward trend represents not just a behavioural shift but also an ideological shift. Indians are not necessarily being more faithful, they are simply more willing to deliberate about fidelity itself. According to Sybil Shiddell, Country Manager, Gleeden India, "While traditional marriage historically meant total monogamy, couples today are questioning whether exclusivity is the only path to commitment. In this context infidelity is being replaced with intentional conversations, clear boundaries, and redefined partnerships. Infidelity fatigue has set in. People today are tired of living a double life. They are leaning into radical transparency and redefined relationship models , whether that means ethical non-monogamy or open partnerships." Monogamy And The Monopoly Over Love The idea of monogamy as the premium model for love no longer has many takers. Nearly half of the respondents of the Gleeden (sample size of survey not mentioned) and IPSOS 2025 study do not believe that humans are built to be monogamous. On the other hand, 50 percent of Gen-X population believes that monogamy is very much possible. In fact, 61 percent of people in the survey said society wants individuals to be monogamous, even if this runs contrary to their instincts. The social contract is changing, and the public is starting to realise that emotional safety and freedom can coexist. The clearest example of the evoloution of the social contract is the growing acceptance of open relationships. A surprising 69 percent of respondents say that open relationships are becoming more acceptable in the society, whereas 35 percent of respondents confessed to being involved in open relationships. Forty-one percent of the respondents said they would immediately agree to an open relationship if their partner proposed one. And, they said these are not casual encounters - they are well-thought through agreements with mutual obligations and respect. As Indian couples come out of secrecy about such conversations, betrayal is being replaced with negotiated independence. Cheating To Choice The 16 percent fall in reported infidelity does not necessarily mean that people are not exploring relationships outside their regular set-up. It simply means they are doing so more honestly. Instead of it being clandestine, it is becoming consensual. The language is shifting from "cheating" to "choice," and from "betrayal" to "boundaries". As more couples embrace sexual and emotional honesty, they are beginning to steer clear of the need to deceive. Evolution goes beyond freedom; it is also about fairness. Women now constitute about 35 percent of Gleeden's Indian users. Women were found to be equally as likely to report physical and emotional infidelity at 46 percent, but were also much more likely than men to define infidelity strictly. For women, emotional connection, chatty flirting, and simply fantasising about someone else could be considered cheating, and this growth in self-awareness among women is creating demand for more emotions-based honest relationships - relationships that depend on no silent agreements under guilt. Moving Away From The Idea Of Happily Ever After to Happily Honest The statistics are a fascinating counterpoint. Although 94 percent of Indians claim to be happy in their relationships and 84 percent claim to be satisfied in their sex lives, only 25 percent feel fulfilled in reality. The rest admit to feeling the lack of emotional connection, thrill, or communication. This disconnect has produced a cultural moment where increasing numbers of people are exploring alternative ways to fix their relationships instead of terminating them. An astonishing 60 percent of married people would choose the intramarital affair over a divorce in a case of unhappiness in the marriage. Even more radically, 47 percent thought infidelity could prove to yeast the passion of a monotonous union. Forgiveness is also possible - 62 percent said they would seriously consider forgiving a cheating spouse in a one-time mistake, especially if the spouse showed honest remorse in the way they continued. The survey clearly shows an evolution from moral absolutism towards emotional realism. The Future Is Moving Towards Fluidity A declining infidelity rate in India does not mean a return to a traditional view of monogamy. On the contrary, it signals the emergence of something new. Importantly, this transition is not a return to moral policing but rather moral maturity. Almost 64 percent of participants stated their thoughts surrounding relationships have changed in the last five years: 69 percent, in fact, say open relationships are now more socially accepted, while 59 percent think they may become the relationship model of the future. While we may still associate secret and scandal with infidelity in some spaces, it is obvious that couples are choosing clarity over chaos, curiosity over condemnation, and open dialogue over secrets. As Indians enter a new chapter of a relationship revolution, fidelity is no longer defined by restrictions, it is now defined by respect. Whether that is to stay monogamous, go polyamorous, or remain somewhere in between, perfection is now replaced by authenticity.
India.com
a day ago
- Business
- India.com
81% Indians Use THESE Digital Platforms To Discover Financial Products: Report
New Delhi: Indians are increasingly taking charge of their financial journeys through digital content, communities, and creators, as 81 per cent of consumers use Facebook, Instagram, or WhatsApp during the discovery phase of financial products, a report said on Thursday. "Financial advice is no longer confined to expert columns or in-branch consultations – it's happening on Reels, in WhatsApp groups, and through Instagram creators demystifying jargon in under 60 seconds," according to a joint report of Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, and global market research firm IPSOS. According to the report, 81 per cent of consumers use Meta platforms when first discovering financial products, and this influence continues through the evaluation stage (79 per cent) and remains strong at the final purchase stage (83 per cent). The digital platforms play a key role throughout the decision-making journey for specific products, including loans (86 per cent), investments (84 per cent), insurance (78 per cent), and savings (82 per cent), the report stated. "Financial planning is integral to the lives of most Indians across income groups. But this process is rapidly evolving, fueled by digital. Whether it's the growing role of Meta platforms in the purchase journey, the increasing influence of Reels and creators, the rising role of business messaging or the growing number of women who are taking independent financial decisions," said Shweta Bajpai, Director Financial Services, Media, Travel, Real Estate, & Services (India), Meta. Despite being an industry with substantial offline presence and touchpoints, the report shows that 6 out of 8 touchpoints in the purchase journey of financial products are now digital, with 50 per cent of these digital touchpoints attributed to Meta platforms. Additionally, more than 50 per cent of financial services consumers view personal finance and investing content on Meta platforms. Financial products might be complex, but consumers don't need long-form storytelling to resonate with the user, the report stated. Short-form content is capable and effective at turning complexity into clarity. Instagram Reels and Facebook videos are the new face of financial literacy. The study showed that 57 per cent of users rely on Instagram and 53 per cent on Facebook to make informed financial decisions, the report highlighted. "Short-form video and Reels are transforming the way businesses connect with new customers and fuel product and brand discovery," said Anoop Manohar, Chief Marketing Officer, Axis Bank. The report also highlights a shift in user preferences, with people seeking authenticity over authority. A significant 75 per cent trust financial podcasts, while 67 per cent look to influencers and subject matter experts for guidance. The report was prepared after surveying over 2,000 respondents aged between 25-45 across Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata, who are current or prospective buyers of financial services products.
Observer
4 days ago
- Politics
- Observer
Undermining the climate cause
Progressives are caught in a trap of their own making. In an era of overlapping and mutually reinforcing crises, they have come to view every issue – climate change, public health, energy, inequality, trade and war – as part of a single, all-encompassing political battle: the 'everything struggle.' At first glance, this approach may appear compelling. These issues really are interconnected, and no one lives in isolation. But forcing every cause into a single battle has serious downsides. Arguing that reducing greenhouse-gas (GHG) emissions also requires abolishing capitalism, rethinking gender categories and freeing Gaza is a formula for political paralysis. Even if each individual fight is worthy on its own, combining them often undermines the broad coalitions needed to achieve meaningful progress. Progressives would do well to keep this in mind ahead of November's United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil. After the lacklustre summits in oil-rich Azerbaijan and the United Arab Emirates, many activists are hoping that COP30 will mark a return to progressive principles. In that spirit, thousands of climate advocates are expected to descend on Belém for the so-called Peoples' Summit, a gathering of civil society and climate groups held in parallel with the official negotiations. Given today's economic turmoil and escalating geopolitical tensions, the chances of global policymakers producing a bold climate plan at COP30 are slim. But even if they succeed, the broader climate fight is bound to fail without public support. Alarmingly, support for the climate agenda appears to have declined significantly. From the United States and Germany to Canada, South Korea and India, climate change barely registered as a major issue in recent elections. By now, it is obvious that the 'everything struggle' is a losing strategy for progressive parties serious about combating climate change. Even worse, it fuels public scepticism about the viability of climate action. To be sure, well-funded disinformation campaigns remain the primary cause of declining public trust. But overreaching by some progressive activists also plays a role. The Peoples' Summit manifesto is a case in point. Drafted by a broad coalition of NGOs and activists, the document denounces 'false climate solutions' as 'instruments for deepening inequality.' Only 'socio-environmental, anti-patriarchal, anti-capitalist, anti-colonialist, anti-racist and rights-based' approaches, it insists, can solve the 'climate, ecological and civilisational crisis.' Though certainly well-intentioned, one must ask: Is this how broad coalitions are built, or is this how they unravel? In fact, most people do care about climate change. A recent IPSOS poll covering 32 countries across five continents found that 74 per cent of respondents are concerned about its impact on their own countries. But when practical, technical solutions are dismissed as ideological betrayals, climate policy risks becoming little more than a quest for moral purity. It wasn't always this way. While calls for sweeping change have long been part of the climate movement – and rightly so – its agenda once focused on sustainability: cutting GHG emissions, conserving resources, protecting forests and preserving biodiversity. Today, however, many activists view climate action as a revolutionary vehicle for dismantling the status quo and prompting a broad moral reckoning. The problem is that while the fervour of the 'everything struggle' may energise activists, it tends to alienate the wider public. Most voters are looking for workable solutions, not a sermon on the need to reinvent society, especially when that sermon echoes the failed revolutionary fantasies of the past. They want clean air, clean energy and a livable planet for their children. But bundling those priorities with every perceived injustice in the world drives away the very people needed to achieve real change. When fringe ideas take centre stage, mainstream support dwindles. By rejecting practical steps like nuclear energy simply because they don't 'dismantle the system,' progressives risk trading impact for ideology. When responsibly managed, nuclear energy is clean and reliable, and electrification cuts emissions. Essential tools for advancing the climate cause are not betrayals of it. When leaders gather at COP30, they must confront a set of urgent challenges: rampant deforestation, the toxic alliance between extractive industries and organised crime, and the growing inability of democratic institutions to deliver sustainable growth. While envisioning alternatives to the status quo remains both valuable and necessary, political leaders – especially on the left – must move beyond the 'everything is everything' mindset and focus on what actually works, even if it doesn't align with radical utopianism. When it comes to political rhetoric and global temperatures, less is more. COP30 offers a unique opportunity to redefine sustainability as pragmatic realism before the climate movement drifts further out of touch with the concerns of ordinary people. If leaders and activists embrace pragmatism, they will have a mandate to act. If they choose to champion the 'everything struggle,' the public will continue to tune out, even as global temperatures continue to rise. @Project Syndicate, 2025
Time Out
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Thailand crowned world's third most fun nation
Good news, fun-seekers! Earlier this year, Thailand snagged the seventh spot for happiest countries in the world, according to an IPSOS survey. And it seems that joy is contagious, especially among the younger generation who truly embody happiness in every step. So it's no shocker that the Land of Smiles was recently crowned the third most fun nation globally in U.S. News & World Report's 2024 rankings! This impressive ranking falls under the 'Adventure' category of their 'best countries' report. Based on a global survey of 17,000 people (from business leaders to influencers and the general public) conducted between March and May 2024, Thailand scored a whopping 91.3 in the 'fun' subcategory. What's more, it was the only Asian country to crack the top 10. With its legendary full moon parties, epic street food and endless postcard-perfect beaches, it's not hard to see why. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned Thailand explorer, the kingdom's magic truly lies in its captivating contrasts. Picture this: ancient temples just steps from pulsing all-night clubs (Khaosan Road, we're looking at you!), classical dance performances sharing the stage with modern Thai remixes, and street vendors grilling up fresh squid right next to stalls selling traditional herbal elixirs. But here's the kicker: Thailand's idea of fun isn't static anymore – it's evolving fast, and Gen Z is leading the charge. Take Bangkok, for instance. Today's youth are transforming the capital into a playground for creative expression. We're talking Gen Z-only club nights popping up in Thonglor, emerging talents showcasing their skills in Siam Square, and the Red Building Vintage Market becoming a Sunday ritual for thrift lovers and DIY stylists hunting for that perfect Y2K fit. Further south, Ko Phangan's Full Moon Party still reigns supreme with its barefoot dancing, glow-in-the-dark body paint and dazzling fire shows lighting up the shore. But the next generation is adding their own spin, remixing the experience with eco-conscious raves and wellness retreats that come with a side of sustainability. Up in Chiang Mai, the vibe is a little more laid-back but no less dynamic. Digital natives and creatives are flocking to craft cafes that double as zine libraries, joining hands-on art workshops and exploring the hill towns by motorbike. And over on the Andaman coast, it's not just about lounging beachside anymore. Young Thais are now kayaking through ancient mangrove forests, diving into coral conservation projects, and documenting every thrilling moment for their Instagram and YouTube followers. The country's rising status also reflects a shift in how younger generations define fun. While the party scene is alive and well, there's also a growing emphasis on lifestyle and self-expression. This is especially true among Gen Z Thais – many of whom grew up in smaller towns before moving to cities like Big Mango to study or work. For them, fun means freedom, discovery and belonging, not escapism. It's about wearing what you want, dancing how you feel, and finding spaces that feel like home, even if just for one night.
Focus Malaysia
13-07-2025
- Focus Malaysia
Confronting cyberbullying with law
Letter to Editor In today's hyper-connected world, the internet has become a powerful tool for communication, education, and work. But behind the glow of our screens lurks a darker reality: cyberbullying — a silent epidemic that's tearing through digital communities and leaving real-world scars. Cyberbullying happens when people use online platforms — like social media, messaging apps, or comment sections — to harass, shame, threaten, or humiliate others. Unlike traditional bullying, it doesn't stop at the school gate or the office door. It follows victims 24/7, invading the one space that should feel safe — their own homes. Malaysia now ranks fifth globally for cyberbullying incidents, according to a 2024 report by IPSOS, as reported in Sin Chew Daily. While this statistic is alarming on its own, what's more concerning is how underreported these cases are. Many victims suffer in silence — especially women and young people — fearing judgment, a lack of legal protection, or simply because there's no clear or effective way to report abuse. The nation was rocked in July 2024 by a tragic case that brought the cyberbullying crisis into sharp focus. On July 5, Malaysians woke to heartbreaking news. A 29-year-old Indian influencer known online as 'Eesha' — real name Rajeswary — was found dead in her family home in Kuala Lumpur after enduring a brutal online harassment campaign. The abuse, which took place largely on TikTok, included doctored photos used as backdrops for live broadcasts and coordinated attacks by trolls who incited mass ridicule. Two individuals were arrested soon after. One was charged with criminal intimidation and released on bail of RM36,000; the other was fined a mere RM100 for public insult. The punishments triggered public outrage, with many Malaysians asking: is that all a life is worth? As Lianhe Zaobao reported, the backlash was swift and overwhelming, and it forced the government to act. Legal reform amid tragedy In December 2024, the Malaysian government introduced a landmark legal reform. For the first time, doxing — the act of publishing someone's personal information online with malicious intent — was officially criminalised under amendments to the Penal Code and Criminal Procedure Code. Under the new law, anyone who threatens, insults, or defames another person through digital communication can now face up to 10 years in prison. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, quoted in Ta Kung Pao, emphasised that the government is working to define cyberbullying more precisely and ensure that offenders are held accountable. 'It's time we treat online abuse as seriously as we do real-world threats,' he said. The rise of cyberbullying reflects a deeper ethical crisis in our digital culture. As digital sociologist Daniel Trottier notes in the European Journal of Communication, the internet can act as a 'magnifier for moral panic,' turning individuals into targets of a rapidly growing digital mob. Cyberbullying thrives in a digital environment shaped by a dangerous mix of inauthenticity, anonymity, and algorithmic amplification. Offenders often manipulate or falsify images and information to publicly shame or humiliate their targets, as seen in Eesha's tragic case. Hidden behind fake profiles, they exploit anonymity to avoid accountability while unleashing verbal violence without restraint. Making matters worse, social media algorithms tend to boost the most sensational and emotionally charged content — whether true or not — further fuelling online abuse. Although legal frameworks are slowly catching up, experts like Whittaker and Kowalski note that vague definitions and weak enforcement still leave significant gaps in prosecuting digital harassment. As Trottier points out, the imbalance of justice is stark: victims shoulder the emotional and financial burden of defending their rights, while perpetrators often walk away with minimal consequences. Together, these factors create a system where cruelty is easy, and justice is hard to reach. A moral crisis, not just a legal one While the new law marks progress, cyberbullying isn't just a policy issue — it's a moral and cultural challenge. How did cruelty and humiliation become online entertainment? What responsibility do platforms, media outlets, and users bear? Media coverage must also tread carefully. Over-exaggeration or sensationalist headlines can retraumatise victims and inflame tensions. Ethical journalism demands compassion, accuracy, and restraint — especially when reporting tragedies. Social media companies, meanwhile, must go beyond symbolic gestures. They have the power to create ethical algorithms, launch real-time moderation, and provide accessible mental health tools. As the main gatekeepers of today's digital discourse, their accountability is critical. Experts agree that tackling cyberbullying requires more than isolated fixes — it demands a comprehensive, multi-level strategy. Legal reform is a critical first step, and while Malaysia's new anti-doxing law marks important progress, broader legislation is still needed to address the full range of online abuse. At the same time, social media platforms must take greater responsibility, investing in real-time monitoring systems and adopting transparent policies that prioritise user safety over engagement metrics. Education plays a crucial role as well. By embedding digital literacy in schools and community programmes, especially for young users, we can empower individuals to recognise manipulation, think critically, and choose empathy over cruelty. Lastly, support systems must be strengthened — from expanded mental health services to accessible victim support and confidential reporting channels. Only through this layered approach can we begin to dismantle the digital environments that allow online harm to flourish. Digital media scholar Elizabeth Whittaker stresses that education must include not just how to use technology — but how to use it ethically. 'Behind every screen is a person,' she reminds us. 'Empathy must be part of our digital DNA.' —July 1, 2025 The authors are from the Department of Science and Technology Studies, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya Main image: GovTech
