Conversation with Ian Bremmer — Ukraine’s Counteroffensive, US-China Relations, and AI’s Geopolitical Influence

Economic Impact

The recent conclusion of the Writers' Strike has left a significant economic impact, particularly in California. Scott Galloway highlights that the strike, which lasted six months, resulted in an estimated $3 billion loss to the state's economy 1. The strike aimed to secure better pay, royalties, working conditions, and protections against AI for writers. However, the financial toll raises questions about the effectiveness of the strike, as Scott notes, "If you didn't negotiate at least a 12.5% bump in pay, then they've lost money because you took their compensation to zero for six months."

If you didn't negotiate at least a 12.5% bump in pay, then they've lost money because you took their compensation to zero for six months.

--- Scott Galloway

The ongoing strike by actors further complicates the situation, delaying the return of scripted content until a deal is reached with SAG-AFTRA 1.

   

Streaming Impact

The Writers' Strike has had contrasting effects on streaming platforms and traditional linear networks. While linear platforms like Disney and Viacom suffered significant losses, with Viacom losing 45% of its value, streaming services like Netflix thrived, even increasing their subscriber base 2. Scott explains that the strike weakened linear networks, which were already struggling to compete with streaming services. He emphasizes that the real challenge for linear networks is the shift in viewer habits, particularly among younger audiences who prefer platforms like TikTok over traditional TV 3.

The real person you should be angry at is a 17-year-old that's decided... I'm gonna watch TikTok all goddamn day long.

--- Scott Galloway

This shift suggests a structural change in viewership that may permanently impact late-night talk shows and other linear content 3.