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Digest: Business Insider Cuts 21% of Workforce; Discord Trials ‘Orbs’ to Incentivise Ad Engagement - ExchangeWire.com

Jun 02, 2025 - exchangewire.com
Business Insider is laying off 21% of its workforce as part of a restructuring strategy focused on artificial intelligence and expanding its live events division. This marks the third major round of layoffs in recent years, affecting all divisions of the company. CEO Barbara Peng stated that the decision is driven by a need to pull back from editorial areas with low audience engagement. However, The Insider Union criticized the move, accusing the company of prioritizing commercial interests over journalism.

Discord is testing a new in-app currency called "Discord Orbs" to encourage user engagement with advertiser content. Users can earn Orbs by participating in promotional activities, such as watching sponsored videos or streaming games, and redeem them for items and perks in the Discord Shop. The beta test is currently limited to a select group of users, with plans for broader availability based on feedback. Meanwhile, Apple faces a compliance deadline from the European Commission to change its App Store practices under the Digital Markets Act, following a €500m fine for anti-steering violations. Apple must allow developers to direct users to alternative purchasing options without additional fees, or face further penalties.

Key takeaways:

  • Business Insider is laying off 21% of its workforce to focus on AI and live events, marking its third major round of layoffs in recent years.
  • Discord is testing a new in-app currency called "Discord Orbs" to encourage user engagement with advertiser content, with potential rewards including exclusive perks.
  • Apple has been fined €500m by the European Commission for breaching the Digital Markets Act and must comply with new regulations within 30 days.
  • The Digital Markets Act requires Apple to allow app developers to direct users to alternative purchasing options outside the App Store without additional fees.
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