Technology has given young people a louder voice than ever before. Gen Z are angry – and unafraid to speak up.

Elijah McKenzie-Jackson was raised as a vegetarian on animal-welfare grounds. But at 10, he began to do more research and discovered the climate impact and greenhouse gas emissions associated with rearing livestock and making animal products. “At 14, I transitioned to veganism, which helped me understand why it can’t just be personal change when fighting the climate crisis,” he says.

He knew cutting out meat and animal products wasn’t enough on its own, so at 15, McKenzie-Jackson amped up his activism efforts. He joined XR Youth, the UK-based independent wing of Extinction Rebellion, and since 2019, has been organising and participating in climate strikes with the UK Student Climate Network and the international movement Fridays for the Future. Now 18, McKenzie-Jackson has taken a one-year sabbatical from his schooling, after which he’ll move to New York City to study sociology and fine art.

McKenzie-Jackson’s experience of starting a life in activism at a young age – and going all in – is an increasingly common story among Gen Zers. Born between 1995 and 2010, this generation have already found themselves up against immense challenges as they make their way into adulthood: climate change, inequality and social unrest, political division, economic distress and more. It’s already mobilised many of these young people into action. And although they are far from the first generation who’ve spoken up about injustice and other societal ills, technology has meant Gen Z’s activism looks different than the movements of the past – which means their influence may be, too.

‘I’m powered by the fact I have no other choice’


Activism has long been synonymous with youth culture. From the May 1968 protests in France, and demonstrations against the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement in the US, to the global Occupy movement and the Arab Spring of the late noughties, young people have a record of pushing forward social change. Gen Z is the latest chapter in the decades-long encyclopaedia of young activists, however this cohort appear to communicate, mobilise and rally support in a way that sets them apart from the generations before them.

Raised against the backdrop of the Great Recession of 2008, Gen Z has experienced a unique set of hurdles. Along with unprecedented societal unrest and division, their path to adulthood has been complicated by the pandemic, during which they’ve seen the rising impact of global inequality. Climate change is front and centre, threatening the future of the planet they will live on. And as the world economy enters a period of looming instability, Gen Z are increasingly bearing the brunt.

“The sense of crisis right now is amplified,” says Jessica Taft, an associate professor of Latin American and Latino Studies at the University of California, Santa Cruz whose work focuses on the political lives of children and youth across the Americas. “The extent of the climate crisis, the profound inequalities, the global creep of fascism – they are all existential threats.” Of course, there have been countless perils in the past, however the potency and global nature of these historical moments is shaping young people’s world views, and the role activism plays in their lives, she says.

Elijah McKenzie-Jackson began his activist journey at age 10


Fuelling Gen Z’s anxiety is the fact that they are exposed to news in a different way to their parents or grandparents at the same age; young people are consuming content around social issues and events almost constantly. With just a smartphone, people can access a 24/7 buffet of reporting through social media sites, search engines, news sites and TV. Social media is fast overtaking traditional news channels among young people. Instagram, TikTok and YouTube are now the top three most used sources for news for British teens, according to the broadcasting regulatory authority Ofcom, while older generations, who grew up consuming news through print, radio and TV still favour these traditional modes.

With tech-enabled devices providing constant access to news and user-generated content, escaping is no mean feat. Young people can’t turn away from the discourse, so it’s no wonder that many digital native Gen Zers are spurred to act on their societal grievances. They are mobilising out of fear and necessity. As 22-year-old American gun control activist and Parkland, Florida mass-shooting survivor David Hogg tweeted: “I’m not powered by hope. I’m powered by the fact I have no other choice.”

More activists, starting younger


Constant exposure to grim realities has primed Gen Zers to deal with hardship proactively.

Global data from public-relations and research firm Edelman shows 70% of Gen Zers are involved in a social or political cause. And although not all the 10,000 people surveyed said they would call themselves fully fledged activists, they’re still highly socially involved, advocating for causes they believe in through how they spend and earn. They’re the most likely generation to boycott a product, company, country or state because of a political, social or environmental stance, which extends to how they pick employers, too. Just one in five would work for a company that fails to share their values.

Much of their activism is driven by frustration – some research shows they’re generally more disillusioned with government and other forms of political participation than their elders were. The University of Cambridge has been gathering global data since 1973, and has found young people’s faith in democratic politics is now lower than any other age group. Among 18-to-34-year-olds (a mix of Gen Z and millennials), satisfaction with democracy is declining at its steepest rate. For young people in developed democracies, economic exclusion is the biggest contributor to their waning faith in institutions. Struggling with higher debt burdens, lower odds of owning a home and greater challenges in starting a family, Gen Z’s discontent only grows.

The pandemic certainly hasn’t helped. According to research by the London School of Economics and Political Science, individuals who experience an epidemic, such as Covid-19, the Zika virus, Ebola or Sars, between the ages of 18 and 25 are likely to harbour negative attitudes toward the government and elections for a long time after the epidemic is over.

Climate-change activism used to deal with abstract scientific concepts, but … we can feel climate accelerating and that adds to a sense of impending apocalypse – Subir Sinha


“While young individuals withdraw from formal politics – which is not that surprising, given their lack of trust – they also tend to increase their participation in the democratic process via alternative and more direct means,” explains Orkun Saka, co-author of the paper, visiting fellow at LSE and assistant professor of economics at City, University of London. This includes activities such as attending demonstrations, protests, boycotts and signing petitions. Saka believes the silver lining of the post-epidemic decline in trust may lead young people to feel they would like to take matters in their own hands. “They may become more critical towards their political leaders and governments, which is not a bad consequence in and of itself,” says Saka.

Particularly notable is the age at which Gen Z’s activism begins – in general, earlier than the generations that have come before them. Greta Thunberg launched her first protest outside the Swedish parliament at 15, which Subir Sinha, a lecturer in the theory and politics of development at SOAS University of London, believes set off a domino effect, whereby young people had a role model who was angry, and with good reason. “She … did not appear packaged,” he says. “It is post-celebrity activism, whereby her ordinariness and lack of glamour is part of her appeal.”

Many young activists have followed in her footsteps, gaining global recognition for speaking on climate change issues as young as eight, like Licypriya Kangujam from Manipur in India. At 10, she has just successfully campaigned to have all plastic pollution cleared from the area surrounding the Taj Mahal.

“The idea that there may not be a future, or if there is one, it could be heavily diminished, plays heavy on their minds,” says Sinha. “Climate-change activism used to deal with abstract scientific concepts, but with annual forest fires, floods, drought and record heat, plus the news and social-media coverage of all this, we can feel climate accelerating and that adds to a sense of impending apocalypse.”

This is why many young people, who see climate change as an existential threat in their lifetime, are participating so vocally in movements and demanding a seat at the table in global negotiations.

An audience at their fingertips


Gen Z activists and their older peers are united in their concern over the same issues – climate destruction, gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights – but their voices appear louder and more urgent because they have more ways to source inspiration, disseminate information and mobilise. While older generations set the precedent for grassroots activism and in-person demonstrations, Gen Zers have brought this activity into where they are most comfortable: digital spaces.

19-year-old Swedish activist Greta Thunberg is one of the most high-profile Gen Z voices, whom experts believe has inspired other young people to take action


At their most basic function, digital spaces enable Gen Zers to develop their civic identities and express political stances in creative ways, from noting their sexual orientation in their Instagram bio, to joining groups aligning with their interests on the chat-room platform Discord. The online world offers somewhere for them to claim the agency they may not get in traditional civic spaces like their schools, universities or workplaces. A 2020 study from the UK Safer Internet Centre showed 34% of 8-to-17-year-olds say the internet has inspired them to take action about a cause and 43% say it makes them feel their voices matter.

The nature of this relationship makes it easier to then exercise one’s civic identity and participate, both offline and online, in social change movements. From the comfort of a bedroom, someone can broadcast a message from a social media account, or build a new platform, without having to wait for a journalist to catch wind of it, or for a TV show to offer a primetime slot. While leafleting, telephone campaigns, word of mouth and canvassing might have been the catalysts for broadcasting a movement in decades before, now Gen Z can harness all this – and more. TikTok videos, hashtag movements like #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter, podcasts and ‘hacktivism’ have expanded the mediums through which young people can speak out and be heard.

“There are newer mechanisms through which they are mobilising collectively and because of the pandemic, more emphasis has gone on organising remotely, which may not require people to get together physically in large numbers,” says Sinha. He believes that what differentiates Gen Z from older generations is the proliferation of technology in young people’s social and political activity, and how intuitively they use it. One minute they’re reposting cat memes, the next they’re flooding Starbucks with fake job applications in a stand against the company’s decision to fire workers attempting to unionise.

“They understand certain mediums so much better, and know how to make things go viral in a way, unlike those of us who weren’t born into computer and mobile phone culture,” says Sinha. In contrast, he recalls working with fish workers in the 90s, who were rallying against the corporate trawling sector and its mechanic fisheries. Local communications had to be written as a letter, typed out and then faxed to all the movement’s international branches.

Today, a movement like this would look dramatically different, he argues – both bigger and faster, since the internet and smartphones have now democratised – and sped up – the path to power and access to a voice as an activist. Jackson-McKenzie believes social media grants individuals access to their very own press tool. “This allows us to narrate our own stories, which is why I think Gen Z has succeeded in so many activism efforts,” he says. “We are wholly interlinked to connect across the world.”

With social media throwing the window wide on all forms of activism, Gen Z has the capacity to raise awareness about the issues disturbing them, even if the path to concrete change is still long. Still rooted in local struggles and realities, contemporary social movements are increasingly “glocal”, operating both globally and locally, with offline and online networks overlapping. Many of the recent youth-led street protests have been organised online, with Twitter, TikTok and Instagram serving as hubs for information and networking.

From the Arab Spring to Black Lives Matter, youth-led movements are gathering momentum through digital means and result in large-scale transnational protests. One notable example saw children from primary level upwards walk out of school to demand action against climate change in March 2019. The 1.4 million-strong School Strike for Climate – the largest of its kind in history – captured global attention through documenting local protests on Twitter, with this ‘glocal’ posting expanding its reach and encouraging others to organise their own versions. The strikes clearly had an effect, as concern about the climate crisis peaked in the same month the strikes took place.

In Lebanon, Nadine Khaouli usesTwitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn to document and amplify her activist work


Activism as identity


With technology collapsing Gen Z’s personal identities into their activism, this sense of self may well follow them through their lives, having multiple impacts, and showing up in all kinds of spheres.

Social media has blended Gen Z’s personal and professional lives, offering no delineation between who they are and how they advocate. Nadine Khaouli has been active in the volunteering and social action space since she was 13, and now runs a humanitarian non-profit Kafe Be Kafak (meaning ‘hand in hand’ in Arabic) alongside her full-time job as a youth delegate with the UN Development Program. On her personal social media accounts – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn – she documents and amplifies her own views and progress as well as posts volunteering and job opportunities.

“I like to show my followers how we’re facing the day-to-day hustle in Lebanon – it’s about using my personal journey and my story to inspire the work I do,” says Khaouli. “I don’t feel the pressure of blurred personal and professional lives because my activism is so aligned with my mission to end poverty in Lebanon.”

These indistinct boundaries feel natural for McKenzie-Jackson too, as he doesn’t see his activism as a profession. “It’s more of a community and family, versus a workplace, which is probably why so many of us are involved in movements,” he says. “It’s about getting impactful work done in a way that makes us feel fulfilled.”

He believes finding friends and partners through activist networks, and inextricably linking their identities with their beliefs, means that those who are already invested are unlikely to end their involvement anytime soon. It will simply transfer into the new spheres they encounter, whether it be the workplace or more activist circles. Being involved in several movements, Jackson-McKenzie can’t see himself stepping away. “Once you’re involved, you can’t stop because you learn and understand more, and it becomes much more serious and scary,” he says.

A 2020 study from the UK Safer Internet Centre showed 34% of 8-to-17-year-olds say the internet has inspired them to take action about a cause and 43% say it makes them feel their voices matter


Forced to grow up fast due to a string of societal crises, there’s always the potential Gen Z could outgrow their activist tendencies as they take on more responsibilities in their lives. However, research on the 60s generation shows that commitment to the same kind of political beliefs stays consistent over time. “The narrative that one becomes more conservative as they age isn’t held up by evidence,” says Taft. “People who were activists – organising and involving themselves in these collective spaces – continue to be committed to making social change happen in various ways, while those whose involvement drops off tend not to be especially engaged. I don’t see why this wouldn’t apply to Gen Z.”

Invested in activism for the long term, and organising their lives around their commitments to various movements, rather than the other way around, this generation stands to make headway with their demands – provided older generations are ready to listen. “There’s always been a problem of ageing people seeing youth movements as too idealistic,” says Sinha. “Any radical or progressive movement with ambitions to survive needs to make space for young people and their ideas about what should change and how that should be done.”

That said, activism living on the same platforms that older generations use for work and play could be narrowing the ideological divide between them. Equally, research shows that Gen Z’s passion for change is revitalising the generations above them too, with the trickle-up effect hard to ignore. Globally, 52% of people of all generations believe teenagers and college-aged people influence how we create change. It’s impacting older generations too: 35% of 56+-year-olds agree this cohort influences how they support the causes they care about, jumping to 50% among 42-to-55 year-olds.

The summer of 2022 has already spotlighted a multitude of new and timeworn issues that will remain highly contentious going forwards. And while today’s young activists face many of the same hurdles as those before them, they have a wholly different set of tools at their fingertips that grant them the loudest voices of any generation in history. With a fresher take on all the ways we’re getting life wrong, they’re angry and unafraid to speak up.

“After the pandemic, the challenge is remobilising people and empowering them to take actions – a lot of the time people are feeling depressed about what’s going on,” says McKenzie-Jackson. “Activism isn’t just actions or social media, it always starts with a passion, and people need to be in touch with that first – everyone has a voice that can turn society on its head, it’s just about feeling empowered enough to use it.”

Figure falls below analyst expectations, easing economic concerns
Singapore’s core inflation rose just 0.6 percent year-on-year in June, coming in below market forecasts and signaling a further easing of consumer price growth.

The slowdown, attributed to lower costs in services and goods, supports the view that inflationary risks in the city-state are gradually subsiding.
City-state’s green transformation inspires international praise
Singapore’s large-scale regreening initiatives are earning global recognition as a blueprint for sustainable urban development.

Through a combination of vertical gardens, forest restoration, and green building policies, the city has successfully integrated nature into dense urban spaces, offering a model for other global cities facing climate and livability challenges.
Incident sparks controversy over workplace injury claim
A woman in Singapore has died just one day after publicly accusing an Indian worker of faking a workplace injury for compensation.

The incident has triggered widespread debate on social media, with authorities now examining the circumstances surrounding both the accusation and her sudden death.
Global mobility index shows shift in travel access rankings
The 2025 global passport index reveals a reshuffling of ranks, with the United States and United Kingdom seeing declines in their travel access scores, while India makes significant gains.

The results reflect evolving visa agreements and international mobility trends, underscoring the growing influence of emerging markets on global travel dynamics.
Central bank to weigh figures ahead of policy decision
Singapore’s headline inflation rate has remained at its lowest level in more than four years, reinforcing expectations that the Monetary Authority of Singapore may maintain its current policy stance.

The latest data show price pressures continuing to ease, providing relief to households and policymakers alike as global inflation cools.
Agreement aims to open markets and strengthen bilateral trade ties
Indonesia has agreed to reduce tariffs and ease non-tariff barriers as part of a trade deal with the United States, a move expected to boost bilateral commerce and improve access for American businesses.

The framework includes the streamlining of import rules and lower duties on key products, paving the way for expanded trade cooperation between the two countries.
Elimination of barriers praised as economic breakthrough
President Donald Trump has described the new trade deal with Indonesia as a major win for American businesses, citing the elimination of significant trade barriers and enhanced access to Southeast Asian markets.

The agreement is part of the administration’s broader effort to rebalance global trade relationships in favor of U.S. industries.
Trump administration announces sweeping regional trade update
The Trump administration has unveiled a series of revised trade agreements with Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines, introducing updated terms aimed at increasing U.S. exports and reducing trade deficits.

The new pacts cover tariff reductions, regulatory alignment, and strategic cooperation, positioning the U.S. for deeper economic engagement across the Asia-Pacific region.
Final negotiations enter advanced stage amid economic push
The White House has unveiled the framework for a new trade agreement with Indonesia, signaling the near completion of negotiations aimed at enhancing market access and reducing trade friction.

The plan outlines commitments from both sides on tariff adjustments, regulatory reforms, and investment protections, reinforcing the U.S. focus on strategic economic ties in Southeast Asia.
Trade deal retains duties despite broader concessions
Despite the broader trade deal between the United States and Indonesia, the Trump administration has decided to retain a 19 percent tariff on certain Indonesian exports.

The decision reflects ongoing concerns over competitive pricing and labor practices, even as both countries work to expand overall trade cooperation under the new agreement.
Talks aim to reduce 36 percent levy on key Thai goods
Thailand is close to finalizing a trade deal with the United States that would reduce a 36 percent export tariff on Thai products.

Negotiators report that more than 90 percent of the terms have been agreed upon, with both sides optimistic about reaching a final agreement that will enhance bilateral trade flows.
Charter reform delays signal continued political gridlock
Thailand’s government has acknowledged that the constitutional amendment process is unlikely to be completed within the current parliamentary term.

The announcement reflects persistent political divisions and limited consensus on proposed reforms, dealing a setback to efforts aimed at reshaping the nation's governance framework.
Tensions rise amid cross-border military allegations
Thailand has formally accused Cambodia of planting new landmines along their shared border, escalating tensions between the two Southeast Asian neighbors.

Thai military officials claim recent discoveries indicate unauthorized activity, prompting calls for an international investigation and increased patrols in the disputed areas.
Strategic plan aims to redefine the country’s travel sector by 2026
Thailand has launched 'The New Thailand' vision, a comprehensive initiative to modernize and reposition its tourism industry by 2026.

The strategy includes sustainability goals, upgraded infrastructure, and a renewed focus on experiential travel, with the aim of attracting high-quality visitors and reinforcing the country’s global appeal.
Strong winds and flooding risk remain despite downgrade
Tropical Storm Wipha has weakened, but meteorologists warn that much of Thailand will still experience heavy rainfall and strong winds over the coming days.

Authorities are advising residents in low-lying and coastal areas to remain vigilant as flooding and landslides remain a significant concern despite the storm’s downgraded status.
Country strengthens its position as a top global destination
Thailand has achieved a new milestone in tourism by reporting a sharp increase in Russian visitor arrivals, defying broader global travel challenges.

Officials attribute the surge to targeted marketing, relaxed visa measures, and the country’s sustained appeal as a premier tropical destination.
Thai boxer to face Leona Rodríguez in silver title defense
Thailand’s Wisuta Sririttidet is set to face Leona Rodríguez in a bid for the WBC Silver Atomweight Title.

The bout is expected to draw international attention as Sririttidet prepares to challenge the reigning champion in what promises to be a high-stakes matchup in the women’s boxing circuit.
Tech consultancy boosts capabilities with local acquisition
Accenture has strengthened its footprint in Malaysia through the acquisition of Aristal, a domestic technology solutions provider.

The deal aims to enhance Accenture’s ability to deliver digital transformation services in the Malaysian market and support the nation’s broader push for tech-driven economic growth.
New strategies aim to boost global appeal and arrivals
Malaysia has announced a bold plan to attract 47 million international tourists by 2026, focusing on digital campaigns, infrastructure investment, and strategic partnerships.

The Tourism Ministry outlined initiatives to enhance visitor experiences and position the country as a premier destination in the global travel market.
RM100 payment to every adult citizen to counter inflation
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has unveiled a new relief plan to tackle Malaysia’s rising cost of living, including a one-off RM100 cash handout for all adult citizens and a targeted fuel subsidy scheme.

The initiative is designed to ease public dissatisfaction over inflation and growing economic pressures, as the government seeks to bolster household purchasing power.
Negotiations aim to soften impact of looming trade duties
Malaysia is in active discussions with the United States to reduce expected tariffs on its exports, seeking to limit the rate to 20 percent.

The government is engaging with American counterparts to protect key industries and preserve competitiveness amid shifting global trade dynamics.
Logistics giant recognized at CSR Malaysia Awards 2025
FedEx has received dual accolades at the Sustainability and CSR Malaysia Awards 2025, highlighting its environmental and community-focused initiatives.

The company was praised for its leadership in green logistics and corporate responsibility, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable growth in the region.
Invisalign debuts metal-free palatal expander for children
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New partnership to enhance brand engagement in Malaysia
Gigi Coffee has named Chariot Agency as its new creative partner, tasking the firm with leading brand strategy and marketing campaigns across Malaysia.

The collaboration aims to strengthen Gigi’s market presence and connect more deeply with its growing customer base through innovative storytelling and design.
Higher power consumption drives reliance on fossil fuels
In response to surging domestic energy consumption, Malaysia is ramping up coal-fired power output and increasing coal imports.

Officials say the move is necessary to maintain grid stability and prevent shortages, despite environmental concerns and growing pressure to transition toward renewable sources.
Unmanned aircraft falls amid cross-border tensions
A military drone operated by Myanmar’s junta has crashed near the Thai border, raising concerns over airspace violations and regional security.

The incident comes amid heightened military activity and clashes with resistance groups in border regions, prompting authorities on both sides to monitor the situation closely.
Resistance forces say they shot down the aircraft
A Myanmar military fighter jet has reportedly gone missing, with a local resistance group claiming responsibility for shooting it down.

The aircraft vanished from radar during operations in contested territory, and while the military has not confirmed the cause, anti-junta forces have posted images allegedly showing the crash site and wreckage.
Now AI voice clones, and eventually video clones, can impersonate people in a way that Altman said is increasingly "indistinguishable from reality"

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman warned the financial industry of a "significant impending fraud crisis" because of the ability of artificial intelligence tools to impersonate a person's voice to bypass security checks and move money. Altman spoke at a Federal Reserve conference Tuesday in Washington.

"A thing that terrifies me is apparently there are still some financial institutions that will accept the voiceprint as authentication," Altman said. "That is a crazy thing to still be doing. AI has fully defeated that."

Voiceprinting as an identification for wealthy bank clients grew popular more than a decade ago, with customers typically asked to utter a challenge phrase into the phone to access their accounts.

But now AI voice clones, and eventually video clones, can impersonate people in a way that Altman said is increasingly "indistinguishable from reality" and will require new methods for verification.

"That might be something we can think about partnering on," said Fed Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle Bowman, the central bank's top financial regulator, who was hosting the discussion with Altman.

The popular host Joe Budden recently made headlines after accidentally sharing a screenshot that revealed he earns close to $900,000 per month—and later confirmed that his podcast network is on track to generate over $20 million in revenue by 2025. Budden represents a growing trend among independent audio creators who are trying to reduce their reliance on the industry’s major players—an industry that, according to new data, now generates $7.3 billion annually.

A Billion-Dollar Boom for Podcasts

According to a recent report from research firm Owl & Co, the global podcast industry brought in $7.3 billion last year—more than double most prior estimates. This surge reveals that podcasting, still a relatively young entertainment format, is bringing in far more money than many insiders had previously realized.

Advertising accounts for the bulk of these revenues, with the rest coming from paid subscriptions. These numbers do not include live events, such as the wildly popular British political podcast The Rest is Politics, which sold out London’s O2 Arena for a live taping.


Joe Budden’s Accidental Disclosure

In this booming market, one of the most surprising success stories is that of Joe Budden, a former rapper once dubbed “the Howard Stern of hip-hop.” Last month, Budden unintentionally posted a screenshot from Patreon—a subscription platform where fans can pay creators directly. The image showed over 30 million views in 30 days.

While the revenue figures were blacked out, internet sleuths edited the image and discovered that Budden had likely earned over $900,000 in that single month, backed by more than 154,000 active subscribers. The figures quickly made headlines. Budden’s latest Patreon update and podcast episode even referenced the leak with a title that cheekily reads “Blackout the Numbers.”


On Track for $20 Million+ in 2025

According to Ian Schwartzman, CEO of the Joe Budden Network, the platform is now averaging $1.04 million per month on Patreon. “We have around 70,000 paying subscribers, with subscription tiers ranging from $5 to $50 per month. Higher tiers offer access to more content, including exclusive spin-off shows,” Schwartzman told The New York Times.

Budden’s Patreon offers four subscription levels:

  • Homies ($5/month) – Ad-free episodes and bonus content.

  • Family ($10/month)

  • Friend of the Show ($25/month)

  • Part of the Show ($50/month) – Includes a chance to appear on-air and have your name in the credits.

These subscription revenues alone could exceed $12 million in 2025, making Budden one of the highest-earning creators on Patreon—a claim that a Patreon spokesperson has confirmed.


Advertising Still Adds Millions

But subscriptions aren’t Budden’s only income stream. Advertising also contributes millions in additional revenue, said Schwartzman. Notably, Budden’s team sells their own ads directly, instead of partnering with major networks like iHeartWondery, or SiriusXM, which often take a cut of ad revenues.


From $500 a Week to Industry Powerhouse

Budden’s journey hasn’t always been lucrative. Back in 2017, when he co-hosted a show on the media platform Complex, Schwartzman recalls that they were struggling to break even. Budden himself has said he was surviving on a $500-per-week stipend at the time.

From 2018 to 2020The Joe Budden Podcast had an exclusive licensing deal with Spotify, which paid under $2 million per year and didn’t include ad revenue or equity.


Leaving Spotify: A Strategic Reboot

After a tense split with Spotify, Budden and Schwartzman began shopping for new distribution deals. But negotiations often broke down over exclusivity clauses. In one case, a potential $44 million deal was rejected because it required removing all content from YouTube.

“As the money goes up, so do the demands,” said Schwartzman. “We wanted someone who saw our value and would let us stay in the game.”

In 2021, they found their fit in Patreon—no guaranteed check, but equity in the company and advisory roles for both Budden and Schwartzman. “Joe is in a league of his own,” said Patreon CEO Jack Conte. “Earning $1 million a month on Patreon is extremely rare.”


A New Model for Creator Power

Since hitting that revenue milestone in November, the Joe Budden Network hasn’t slowed down. Conte credits Patreon’s creator-first model, noting: “Artists today have more leverage and control than ever before in the history of the arts.”

The U.S. President disclosed new trade deals that include reduced tariffs and investment pledges from key Asian economies, with Japan committing $550 billion in U.S.-based projects
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a series of new trade agreements with Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines, detailing what he described as transformative developments for the American economy.

According to statements released on his social media platform, Japan has pledged to invest $550 billion in the United States, with 90% of profits reportedly expected to remain within the country.

The trade agreement with Japan includes significant tariff adjustments, with Japanese imports to the U.S. subject to duties ranging between 15% and 19%.

In return, the Japanese market will open further to U.S. goods, including automobiles, trucks, rice, and other agricultural products.

Trump stated that the investment deal would generate hundreds of thousands of jobs.

Following the announcement, Tokyo’s stock exchange experienced a 3.5% surge, marking the highest closing since July 2024.

Additionally, Japan's 10-year government bond yield rose by 9 basis points to 1.60%.

The agreement with Indonesia entails the removal of 99% of tariffs on American industrial, technological, and agricultural products entering the Indonesian market.

In contrast, Indonesian exports to the U.S. will be subject to a 19% import tariff.

The deal includes commitments by Indonesia to supply critical minerals to the United States and purchase American goods, including Boeing aircraft, agricultural exports, and energy products, in contracts valued in the tens of billions of dollars.

A similar framework has been established with the Philippines, where American products will be exported tariff-free, while Philippine goods entering the U.S. market will face a 19% tariff.

During a state visit by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to Washington, the two countries signed a trade agreement that also includes military cooperation initiatives.

These agreements come two weeks after Trump previously announced plans to impose higher tariffs on several Asian nations—32% on Indonesia, 30% on Japan, and 25% on the Philippines—due to the expiration of a moratorium on his proposed trade measures.

The recent negotiations have led to revised terms and apparent withdrawal from those earlier tariff levels.

Japanese and regional media outlets have prominently covered the announcement, with front pages in Tokyo highlighting the scale of the trade and investment commitments.

The agreements mark a shift in bilateral economic relations between the United States and several Asian partners, following extended negotiations involving trade liberalization and strategic collaboration.
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Vietnam's passport has climbed to the 84th spot in global rankings, reflecting significant gains in visa-free or visa-on-arrival access.

The surge follows new agreements with countries like Poland, Czechia, and Switzerland, contributing to a growing sense of international mobility and positioning Vietnam as an increasingly connected nation in global travel networks.
Robust exports and reform optimism push GDP to new heights
Vietnam’s gross domestic product has recorded its highest first-half growth in 15 years, driven by strong export performance and investor confidence in ongoing structural reforms.

The upbeat economic indicators reflect a resilient recovery from global downturns and position Vietnam among Asia’s top-performing economies in 2025.
Anniversary highlights growing cooperation and strategic partnership
The United States and Vietnam have commemorated the 30th anniversary of normalizing diplomatic ties, underscoring deepening cooperation in trade, education, and regional security.

Leaders from both countries highlighted their shared interests and growing people-to-people exchanges, as Vietnam continues to emerge as a strategic partner in Southeast Asia.
Proposal aims to attract foreign experts and fuel economic growth
Vietnam is considering introducing a five-year visa exemption for foreign experts in key sectors as part of its broader strategy to attract global talent and boost long-term economic development.

The move is expected to facilitate international collaboration in science, technology, education, and business, while reinforcing Vietnam’s competitiveness on the world stage.
Thunderstorm blamed for capsizing of vessel with many still missing
At least 28 people have died after a tourist ferry capsized in Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay during a sudden thunderstorm.

The incident, which occurred amid rough weather conditions linked to Tropical Storm Wipha, has left several others missing, including children.

Rescue operations are ongoing, with survivors describing narrow escapes and authorities investigating safety lapses on board.
Heavy rains and strong winds cause severe flooding and transport disruptions
Tropical Storm Wipha has made landfall in northern Vietnam, bringing fierce winds and torrential rain that triggered widespread flooding and disrupted transportation across the region.

Authorities in Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Ninh Binh issued warnings as rivers overflowed and hundreds of flights were delayed or canceled.

Emergency teams are responding to affected areas as residents brace for continued rainfall and possible landslides.
Shops selling illegal animal products target Chinese tourists
Authorities in Laos have uncovered a network of illegal wildlife shops allegedly scamming Chinese tourists with counterfeit or restricted animal products.

Conservationists warn that these operations not only harm protected species but also damage the country’s reputation as a responsible tourism destination.

Officials are now stepping up enforcement to combat trafficking and tourist fraud.
Hairy, dwarf-like creature found in tree confirmed as previously unknown species
A mysterious, hairy creature spotted high in a tree in northern Laos has been identified by scientists as a new species of primate.

The dwarf-like animal, notable for its dense fur and diminutive size, was initially mistaken for a local myth.

Researchers say the discovery highlights the rich biodiversity of the region and underscores the need for greater environmental protection amid expanding development.
Drop in recycling prices worsens environmental burden
Laos is grappling with a mounting plastic waste crisis as falling international recycling prices reduce incentives for collection and reuse.

The resulting accumulation of waste is straining urban infrastructure and threatening rivers and forests.

Environmental groups are calling for urgent reforms in waste management and increased investment in domestic recycling capabilities.
Lodkeo Inthakoumman claims top spot in international road race
Laotian athlete Lodkeo Inthakoumman dominated the women's field at the Pattaya Marathon, crossing the finish line ahead of an international field of competitors.

Her victory is being celebrated as a moment of national pride in Laos, where officials hope her success will inspire greater participation in competitive athletics.
LamoPay aims to revolutionize digital payments and tourism
Laos and Vietnam have launched a new cross-border e-wallet system named LamoPay, designed to streamline digital payments and enhance tourism between the two nations.

Officials say the initiative will improve convenience for travelers and support bilateral trade through seamless transactions, marking a key milestone in ASEAN's regional digital integration strategy.
New trade sanctions target 14 nations amid global supply chain concerns
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has imposed sweeping new tariffs on 14 countries, including a 40 percent levy on imports from Laos and Myanmar.

The announcement, which comes amid growing debate over trade security, is expected to complicate economic relations and prompt diplomatic pushback from Southeast Asian governments.
Cambodian Prime Minister warns of a 'red line' amid rising tensions
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has issued a stern warning to Thailand, stating that the Ta Moan Thom Temple lies within Cambodian territory and any Thai provocation constitutes a violation of sovereignty.

The border dispute has reignited fears among local residents and prompted military readiness from both sides, with the Thai army reportedly threatening a temporary temple closure and Cambodia accusing Thailand of crossing a 'red line' in their actions.
Authorities intensify efforts to dismantle cybercrime rings targeting foreigners
Cambodian authorities have arrested more than 2,100 individuals over the past three weeks as part of an ongoing nationwide crackdown on online scam centers.

The raids, conducted in cooperation with regional and international partners, aim to dismantle sophisticated human trafficking and cyber fraud networks that have increasingly used Cambodia as a base of operations.
New powers allow the state to strip nationality in cases of perceived disloyalty
Cambodia’s National Assembly has passed a constitutional amendment permitting the government to revoke citizenship from individuals deemed to threaten national security or commit acts of treason.

Critics argue the change could be used to silence dissent, while the government insists it is necessary for national integrity and to deter subversive activities.
ITMO pilot includes 8,000 electric scooters to cut emissions under Paris Agreement
Cambodia and South Korea have jointly launched a landmark carbon trading initiative under Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement, marking the Kingdom’s first international carbon market partnership.

The ITMO pilot includes the delivery of 8,000 electric scooters aimed at reducing urban pollution and supporting a national transition to clean transport solutions.
National carrier asserts design is inspired by Khmer heritage and identity
Air Cambodia has pushed back against accusations of brand plagiarism following its rebranding and the launch of new international routes, including a service to Shenzhen.

The airline stated that its design choices are deeply rooted in Cambodian cultural symbolism, emphasizing that the new look reflects national pride and identity rather than imitation.
Deal includes economic incentives and defense cooperation framework
Donald Trump has revealed that the United States has reached a broad military and trade agreement with the Philippines, combining economic concessions with enhanced security collaboration.

The deal was finalized during President Marcos Jr.’s visit to Washington, where both leaders highlighted the importance of countering Chinese influence in the region.

Although exact military terms remain undisclosed, the agreement is expected to strengthen bilateral defense ties and open new avenues for American investment in the Philippines.
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