Author name: PPCJuice

Polymarket faces scrutiny for election betting adverts in US

Polymarket, tags: election - CC BY-SA
Policy Updates

Despite a federal ban on Americans using the platform for election betting, Polymarket has been actively promoting its services via social media influencers. The crypto-forecasting website has been partnering with popular US-based influencers to reach a wider audience and drive traffic to its platform. In a development reported by Bloomberg, Armand Saramout, the senior director of growth at Polymarket, reached out to influential individuals on social media in the US in September with a goal of advertising the platform’s election betting capabilities. Utilising influencers The sponsored posts were featured on Instagram accounts with millions of followers, including Mr. Moist (5.5 million), HoodClips (12 million), and Eric Pan (203,000). Influencer Xavi Fahard has reportedly secured a long-term partnership with Polymarket after satisfactory advert performance. reached out to influencers on both sides of the aisle to promote our data and drive traffic and eyeballs to polymarket.com, where 99% of visitors consume news and never place a trade. Polymarket spokesperson However, Polymarket claims that its primary goal is to drive traffic and eyeballs to its website, where visitors consume news and do not place trades. The move has sparked concerns about Polymarket’s compliance with US regulations and its decision to target the American market despite local restrictions. Google ads Polymarket, though having the financial firepower to launch ads on Google for their purported desire for more eyeballs and to drive traffic to their site, have not been able to utilise the space because of its many restrictions. At its core, Polymarket is a betting app in the guise of trading. Users can profit from their knowledge by betting on future events. In this case, it was the US elections that mattered most. Google does not allow advertising for these types of transactions. Moreover, advertisers must be certified with Google. This is most likely the reason why they opted to reach out to influencers who post content visible to their millions of followers on Facebook and Instagram. A spokesperson for the company emphasised that they have reached out to influencers on both sides of the aisle to promote their data and services. With a £22 million Trump bet made by one trader on the platform, Polymarket found itself under intense scrutiny from regulators and the public alike. With Trump’s win, even more so. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Polymarket will navigate the complexities of US regulations and maintain its position in the market.

Google updates advertising policy for social casinos

Google Updates Advertising Policy for Social Casinos, Concept art for illustrative purpose - Monok
Policy Updates

Google is loosening its restrictions on online social casino advertising, marking a significant shift in its advertising policies. Starting December 4th, social casino mobile applications will no longer be categorized as “sensitive wagering.” This reclassification will grant operators greater freedom to tailor their ad campaigns and target specific audiences, ultimately expanding their reach and visibility. By removing social casinos from the sensitive wagering category, Google aims to strike a balance between protecting users and fostering innovation within the industry. This move aligns with the evolving regulatory landscape and acknowledges the distinct nature of social casino games, which primarily offer entertainment value rather than financial gain. What this means for social casinos The move is part of an update to Google’s “sensitive interest category,” which previously prohibited personalisation for certain types of gambling-related content. Under the revised policy, social casinos will be subject to the same requirements as other gaming companies, including displaying information about responsible gambling and not targeting adverts to minors. Gaming operators must also meet 10 specific requirements to run ads on Google, including compliance with state and geographic regulations. Unlike regular online gaming sites, social casinos frequently include no-cost games and refrain from awarding real cash prizes. However, some social casino operators have faced regulatory issues due to confusing in-app purchases that were initially thought to be redeemable for real money. Why is Google making this change? The update reflects Google’s efforts to capture a growing share of the online gaming advertising segment whilst ensuring that its platform is not used to reach vulnerable audiences. With social casinos representing a significant and expanding market, Google ensures that there is a balance between revenue generation and responsible advertising practices. In recent months, Google has taken steps to liberalise its ad policies for other gaming-related services, including daily fantasy sports operators and lottery courier services. By only allowing licensed gaming firms to advertise, Google upholds its promise to maintain a responsible environment for online promotions.

Growing your dental practice in a digital world using Google Adverts

Boost Your Dental Practice Visibility And Drive More Appointments With The Right Google Ads Strategy, Concept art for illustrative purpose - Monok
Industry Insights

To thrive in a crowded dental industry, relying solely on traditional marketing methods is no longer enough to capture attention and attract patients. As the field becomes more competitive, dental practices increasingly turn to digital strategies like Google Ads to connect with potential patients. With a targeted Google Ads approach that leverages PPC optimisation techniques, practices can boost their online visibility, engage more effectively, and control their advertising budgets with precision. According to a Digital Marketing Experts representative, “incorporating digital strategies like Google Ads can increase visibility and appointment bookings for dental practices.” This is because Google Ads gives dental practices the ability to display ads on Google Search and Google Maps, positioning them directly where patients are looking. This high visibility can be a game-changer, as many people now search for healthcare providers online before booking appointments. By investing in the latest Google Ads updates and features, dental practices can meet patient expectations for online accessibility whilst standing out in a crowded marketplace. Key Takeaways To thrive in a crowded dental industry, dental practices must incorporate digital strategies like Google Ads to boost online visibility and attract patients. Google Ads can increase appointment bookings by targeting actively seeking patients with targeted ads and location-based targeting. Optimizing Google Ads bidding through manual and automated techniques can help control costs while maximising ad effectiveness. Verifying a Google Business Profile is essential for maintaining a strong online presence, increasing visibility in local searches, and building trust with patients. How Google Ads increases appointment bookings When properly implemented with PPC best practices, Google Ads can significantly boost appointment bookings. Targeted adverts allow practices to reach those actively seeking dental services, enhancing conversion potential. Google Ads case studies show that practices utilising Google Ads often report increased enquiries and appointment requests. We’re seeing practices that incorporate digital strategies like Google Ads experience increased visibility and more appointment bookings. Dental Marketing Experts Google Ads also enables ad customisation across multiple formats, such as text, display, and video, allowing practices to engage potential patients in various ways. This flexibility, combined with Google’s refined algorithm changes, ensures ads are shown to the right audience at the right time. With location-based targeting, ads reach patients in close proximity, making it easy for them to book services nearby. Optimising Google Ads bidding for better results Understanding Google Ads bidding is crucial for maximising ad effectiveness while controlling costs. Combining manual and automated bidding techniques—two primary PPC optimisation strategies—can help practices make the most of their budget. Manual bidding provides more control, allowing practices to adjust bid amounts based on specific goals, though it requires consistent oversight. Automated bidding, powered by Google’s machine learning, optimises bids in real time, ensuring ads reach the intended audience efficiently. This strategy is ideal for smaller practices with limited resources for continuous monitoring. Using tools like Google’s Keyword Planner can further refine keyword targeting, helping practices stay competitive without overspending. Google Ads algorithm changes and Performance Max updates also support effective bid management by streamlining placement and optimising ad costs. Staying current with Google Ads industry changes Keeping up with Google Ads industry news and updates is essential for maintaining a strong online presence. Recently, Google announced that by November 21, 2024, businesses using Local Services Ads must verify their Google Business Profiles. This verification involves confirming the practice’s address, which builds trust with patients and ensures they’re seeing accurate information. A verified Google Business Profile not only increases visibility in local searches but also gives patients quick access to essential clinic information like hours, services, and contact details. Regularly updating this profile helps dental practices rank higher in local search results, making it easier for new patients to find and connect with them. Unlocking new growth through a digital-first approach As the dental industry grows increasingly digital, Google Ads provides an invaluable pathway for practices to connect meaningfully with patients. By tapping into PPC strategies, location-based targeting, and the latest ad tools, dental practices can transform visibility into real patient relationships. Embracing these advanced ad features isn’t just about staying competitive; it’s about leading with a modern, patient-focused approach that meets people where they are—online. With a commitment to staying informed on Google Ads developments and industry shifts, practices can establish a trusted digital presence that resonates with today’s healthcare consumers and sets the foundation for lasting growth.