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Forbes
7 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Cross-Border Industry Self-Regulation: Global Models And Implications
Eric Reicin, President & CEO of BBB National Programs, a nonprofit organization dedicated to a more accountable, trustworthy marketplace. In our interconnected world, industries such as technology, digital advertising and artificial intelligence operate across national borders with unprecedented ease. These borderless operations bring vast opportunities for leaders to promote innovation, but they also create regulatory challenges. That is because traditional, jurisdiction-bound regulatory frameworks often struggle to keep pace with the rapid evolution and global scope of technology. That is why industry self-regulation offers a powerful, flexible and potentially harmonizing force—one that can bridge the divide between disparate legal systems and foster international cooperation. U.S. Leadership In Industry Self-Regulation The United States has long championed the role of industry-led self-regulation, and as I have written in these pages, there is now a timely opportunity for industry self-regulation in an age of deregulation. For more than 50 years, programs such as our BBB National Programs' National Advertising Division and Children's Advertising Review Unit have exemplified how voluntary standards, third-party oversight and transparent enforcement can provide effective consumer protection and foster responsible business practices. These models have not only filled regulatory gaps but also built stakeholder trust. Importantly, these programs demonstrate a core set of principles—transparency, accountability and independence—that transcend borders. As other countries develop or refine their own regulatory systems, U.S.-based self-regulatory models serve as adaptable blueprints. They offer scalable solutions that can be tailored to different legal and cultural contexts. The Global Regulatory Landscape: Tensions And Opportunities The global regulatory environment is undergoing a transformation markedly different than the deregulatory environment we are seeing in the U.S. The European Union's Artificial Intelligence Act, for example, sets out comprehensive rules governing artificial intelligence, emphasizing risk management, data governance and transparency. Meanwhile, other jurisdictions, from Canada to Brazil to Japan, are advancing their own frameworks for digital services and AI. This patchwork of country and EU-specific regulations raises concerns about fragmentation and compliance complexity for global businesses. It also highlights the urgent need for interoperable standards. Here, self-regulation can play a crucial role. Industry-led codes of conduct, recognized across jurisdictions, can help align practices, reduce compliance burdens and facilitate cross-border data and technology flows. Self-regulation also enables quicker responses to emerging issues than formal legislation. In fast-moving sectors such as generative and agentic AI, where innovations can outpace regulatory timelines, voluntary frameworks provide a nimble mechanism to set norms and address risks proactively. Some countries, such as Singapore, use a "regulatory sandbox" approach, allowing businesses to experiment with AI in a controlled environment and develop industry-led guidelines. Beyond addressing the current pressing challenges of AI, several initiatives already illustrate the potential for self-regulation to operate on a global scale: • IEEE And ISO AI Ethics Standards: These efforts reflect collaborative, international approaches to establishing ethical guidelines for emerging technologies. In the case of IEEE, its standards apply to autonomous intelligence systems, while ISO sets the standard for standards, so to speak, with an array of initiatives going far beyond AI. • The International Chamber Of Commerce: The International Chamber of Commerce continually updates a comprehensive Advertising and Marketing Communications Code, outlining standards supporting legal, decent, honest and truthful advertising and marketing practices across many domains, including environmental marketing, digital marketing and marketing directed to children. • EU-U.S. Data Privacy Framework: While not self-regulatory per se, this Data Privacy Framework agreement incorporates elements of organizational accountability that could inform self-regulatory approaches to data governance. • International Council For Advertising Self-Regulation (ICAS): ICAS provides a platform for ad standards bodies and key industry stakeholders around the globe to align on self-regulatory practices to promote truthful, responsible and ethical advertising. And several ICAS member ad standards self-regulatory organizations, such as ASCI in India, ARPP in France and SRC in the Netherlands, have created social media 'influencer' training and certification programs to help ensure that brands and influencers are transparent and truthful about their marketing arrangements and claims. These examples show that self-regulation can complement formal regulation, fostering trust, compliance and innovation across borders. But to fully realize the potential of cross-border self-regulation, several considerations are worth underscoring: • Recognition And Integration: Governments and international organizations should formally recognize credible self-regulatory programs as part of their compliance ecosystems. • Capacity Building: Industries should invest in governance structures and independent oversight to ensure the integrity and credibility of self-regulatory initiatives. • Global Dialogue: Continuous engagement among regulators, industry leaders and civil society is critical to harmonize standards and address emerging challenges. As the global regulatory environment continues to evolve, self-regulation stands tall as a bridge—not a bypass—to effective governance. By fostering collaboration, accountability and innovation, self-regulatory models can help build a more integrated, trustworthy and responsive global ecosystem. Indeed, leaders should treat self-regulation as a strategic advantage, not merely a compliance obligation. By actively participating in or even helping shape self-regulatory initiatives, organizations can build trust, differentiate themselves in global markets and help reduce the risk of more burdensome government intervention. No doubt, regulatory fragmentation creates uncertainty. That is why businesses and nonprofits should build internal capacity to monitor and interpret international developments, not just local laws. This allows for informed adaptation and early alignment with emerging norms. Leaders may want to consider developing a cross-functional team (compliance, legal, risk, public policy) tasked with horizon scanning and scenario planning based on global developments, like the Digital India Act or when Brazil amps up enforcement of its data protection law. Leaders should also consider engaging in multi-stakeholder collaboration, investing in transparent and accountable governance and championing self-regulation as a policy option. Finally, leaders must articulate the strategic value of self-regulation to boards, investors, employees and the public. The world is watching how regulatory models evolve, particularly as transformative technologies such as generative and agentic AI reshape our societies. Self-regulation, grounded in proven principles and adapted to global realities, offers a pro-competitive path forward that balances the support of innovation with the enhancement of consumer trust. Now is the time for organizational leaders to embrace industry self-regulation as a meaningful cross-border policy option. Forbes Nonprofit Council is an invitation-only organization for chief executives in successful nonprofit organizations. Do I qualify?
Business Upturn
09-07-2025
- Business
- Business Upturn
National Advertising Division Finds Certain Claims for OLLY's Lovin' Libido Supplement Supported; Recommends Sensation Claim be Discontinued
New York, NY, July 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a challenge brought by competitor Bayer Healthcare LLC, BBB National Programs' National Advertising Division determined that Olly PBC provided a reasonable basis for claims made for its Lovin' Libido dietary supplement related to desire, drive, arousal, satisfaction and lubrication. However, the National Advertising Division (NAD) recommended that Olly discontinue its Lovin' Libido claim related to sensation. Bayer and Olly are competitors that each market a variety of dietary supplements to consumers. Bayer challenged claims made by Olly that touted the sexual benefits of Olly's Lovin' Libido product that relate to ashwagandha, an ingredient in the product. NAD reviewed Olly's advertising to determine whether it conveyed the message that the Lovin' Libido product, rather than the individual ingredient ashwagandha, provided the claimed benefits. Of the eight express claims, five specifically named ashwagandha as providing the expected benefit. The three remaining challenged claims did not specifically reference ashwagandha, but appear in contexts that make clear that ashwagandha is the source of the claimed benefits. NAD determined that in this context, reasonable consumers would interpret the claims as attributing the product benefits to ashwagandha. Based on Olly's express messaging in its ads, NAD further determined that the Lovin' Libido product is marketed towards women who are uninterested in and unsatisfied with sex. NAD reviewed the evidence to determine if it supported a reasonable basis that ashwagandha provides the claimed benefits to that target population of women. In support of its claims, Olly provided seven randomized clinical trials (RCTs) studying the sexual health benefits of ashwagandha root extract. NAD determined that one study did not adequately support the claimed sexual health benefits due to its focus on perimenopausal women and thus could not qualify as competent and reliable support for the challenged claims. NAD found that the six additional studies provided a reasonable basis for Olly's claims about the sexual health benefits of ashwagandha in its Lovin' Libido product. However, NAD noted that none of the RCTs directly addressed the specific claimed benefit of enhanced 'sensation.' Accordingly, NAD determined that Olly provided a reasonable basis for its claims related to desire, drive, arousal, satisfaction and lubrication, but determined that the studies are not a good fit to support claims related to sensation and recommended that the reference to sensation be discontinued. During the proceeding, Olly voluntarily discontinued certain Lovin' Libido claims. Therefore, NAD did not review these claims on their merits and will treat them, for compliance purposes, as though NAD recommended they be discontinued. In its advertiser statement, Olly stated that it will comply with NAD's recommendations. All BBB National Programs case decision summaries can be found in the case decision library. For the full text of NAD, NARB, and CARU decisions, subscribe to the online archive. Per NAD/NARB Procedures, this release may not be used for advertising or promotional purposes. About BBB National Programs: BBB National Programs, a non-profit organization, is the home of U.S. independent industry self-regulation, currently operating more than 20 globally recognized programs that have been helping enhance consumer trust in business for more than 50 years. These programs provide third-party accountability and dispute resolution services that address existing and emerging industry issues, promote fair competition for businesses, and a better experience for consumers. BBB National Programs continues to evolve its work and grow its impact by providing business guidance and fostering best practices in arenas such as advertising, child-and-teen-directed marketing, data privacy, dispute resolution, automobile warranty, technology, and emerging areas. To learn more, visit About the National Advertising Division: The National Advertising Division of BBB National Programs provides independent self-regulation and dispute resolution services, guiding the truthfulness of advertising across the U.S. The National Advertising Division reviews national advertising in all media and its decisions set consistent standards for advertising truth and accuracy, delivering meaningful protection to consumers and promoting fair competition for business. Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Phone Arena
21-06-2025
- Business
- Phone Arena
Verizon agrees to change ads after T-Mobile complains to the NAD
The wireless business in the U.S. is so competitive that if you try to sneak something into an advertisement that might not be 100% verifiable, one of your rivals will swiftly take matters up with the National Advertising Division (NAD) industry watchdog. The NAD's job is to ensure that national ads are truthful and accurate. Recently T-Mobile spilled the beans on Verizon over the latter's ads mentioning its satellite texting service and the size of its network. The NAD decided that some of Verizon 's claims were supported but also recommended that the rest of the ads be made clearer so consumers can understand what Verizon is trying to say. For example, the NAD says that Verizon 's "conquering dead zones with satellite" commercials aren't misleading but the carrier should have pointed out that the feature works only on select new phone models and under certain conditions. T-Mobile also took umbrage with Verizon calling itself "America's largest network." That claim is legit if Verizon is talking about the number of postpaid subscribers. However, T-Mobile fears that some viewing the ad might think that it refers to the geographic reach of Verizon 's network or its coverage area. The NAD recommended that Verizon clarify what it means by "largest." In a press release, the NAD wrote that Verizon 's use of the phrase "largest network" was ambiguous as it portrayed different things to different consumers. The NAD also said that it might not be clear to viewers of the ad that the term "postpaid phone connections" refers to Verizon subscribers. Last year T-Mobile ignored the infamous "snitches get stitches" saying and complained to the NAD about claims made by Verizon in other commercials. The NAD last year asked Verizon to discontinue or modify its ads related to its satellite texting service due to the complaint filed by T-Mobile . Verizon says that it will comply with the new recommendations made by the NAD which is a typical response from a company accused of misleading the public with its television spots. While the NAD does not have the legal heft to impose fines or get companies to change their ads, most firms will listen to its recommendations due to the fear that the case could be referred to the FCC. Secure your connection now at a bargain price! We may earn a commission if you make a purchase Check Out The Offer
Android Authority
19-06-2025
- Business
- Android Authority
Verizon told to clarify ambiguous advertising claims after T-Mobile complaint
Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority TL;DR The National Advertising Division (NAD) has recommended that Verizon change its marketing language about satellite texting based on a complaint from T-Mobile. T-Mobile has also challenged Verizon's claim of being 'America's largest network,' with the watchdog calling Verizon's advertising 'ambiguous.' Verizon has said that it'll comply with NAD's recommendations. Verizon is once again under the lens for its inconspicuous advertising claims. This time, the Big Red has been pulled up over claims about its satellite texting service and network size following a challenge from rival T-Mobile. The National Advertising Division (NAD), an industry watchdog under BBB National Programs, found some of Verizon's claims to be supported but recommended that the carrier make its advertising clearer for the benefit of consumers. NAD said Verizon's slogan 'conquering dead zones with satellite' is not misleading on its own, but warned that Verizon must improve its disclosures. Specifically, the NAD says Verizon failed to clarify that the satellite texting service only works on select new phone models and under certain conditions. Moreover, T-Mobile also took issue with Verizon's 'America's largest network' claim. While Verizon has based that claim on the number of postpaid subscribers, T-Mobile said the phrase could mislead consumers into thinking it refers to coverage area or geographic reach. NAD recommended Verizon clarify what Verizon means by 'largest.' 'NAD found the phrase 'largest network' to be ambiguous, potentially conveying different messages to consumers. NAD also determined that the term 'postpaid phone connections' may not clearly communicate that it refers to Verizon subscribers,' the organization wrote in a press release shared with Android Authority. NAD made similar recommendations to those of Verizon last year and asked the carrier to discontinue or modify its satellite texting claims based on a previous complaint by T-Mobile. Verizon stated it would comply with the NAD's recommendations. While the NAD does not have the power to enforce changes, companies often follow its guidance to avoid legal or regulatory issues. For customers, the ruling means Verizon ads may soon become more transparent, especially regarding satellite texting and what its 'largest network' claims really mean.
Yahoo
18-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
National Advertising Division Finds Certain Verizon Satellite Texting Claims Supported; Recommends Modified Disclosures for Others
Following a challenge brought by T-Mobile US, Inc., BBB National Programs' National Advertising Division found certain claims related to Verizon's Communications Inc.'s Satellite Texting services supported but recommended that Verizon modify disclosures for other Satellite Texting service and 'largest network' advertising. New York, NY, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Following a challenge brought by T-Mobile US, Inc., BBB National Programs' National Advertising Division found certain claims related to Verizon's Communications Inc.'s Satellite Texting services supported but recommended that Verizon modify disclosures for other Satellite Texting service and 'largest network' advertising. The National Advertising Division (NAD) reviewed express claims made by Verizon, including that it is 'conquering dead zones with satellite' and that it operates 'America's largest network.' Satellite Claims NAD found that the challenged claims 'VERIZON Satellite Powered' and 'Verizon is conquering dead zones with satellite,' do not convey the message that only Verizon has this functionality or that competitors do not. NAD next examined whether there was support for Verizon's monadic claims. NAD found that the Verizon/AST SpaceMobile partnership, which is only in testing stages, could not support the challenged claims. NAD noted that although the Globalstar and Skylo partnerships were not on Verizon's network, the precise details of how satellite texting is achieved (including whether this is done through Verizon's own network or otherwise) is likely immaterial to consumers. NAD also found the disclosure that appeared in the discontinued Buzz Aldren commercial, stating 'Satellite connectivity requires select new model phones with updated software. Must be outside w/line of sight to satellite; might not work in parts of Alaska," did not clearly and conspicuously disclose that only newer phone models with updated software will be able to access this service. NAD therefore concluded that Verizon has provided a reasonable basis for the claims 'VERIZON Satellite Powered' and 'Verizon is conquering dead zones with satellite,' but recommended that in future advertising, Verizon ensure that any accompanying disclosures describing the availability of the satellite texting features be clear and conspicuous. 'Largest Network' Claims T-Mobile challenged Verizon's 'America's largest network' claim that included the disclosure, ''Largest network' based on total postpaid phone connections publicly reported by Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T, Q3 '24.', arguing that in the telecom industry, 'largest network' typically refers to geographic coverage or population reach, not subscriber numbers. NAD found the phrase 'largest network' to be ambiguous, potentially conveying different messages to consumers. NAD also determined that the term 'postpaid phone connections' may not clearly communicate that it refers to Verizon subscribers. NAD therefore concluded that the challenged claims could be substantiated when properly qualified with an appropriate disclosure, but that Verizon's disclosure was not clear or conspicuous due to the use of the term 'postpaid phone connections.' NAD recommended that Verizon modify its disclosure to make clear what 'postpaid phone connections' references. During the inquiry, Verizon informed NAD that it had permanently discontinued the challenged implied claims relating to satellite-supported texting and its wireless network. Except where it relates to overlap with express claims, NAD did not review the discontinued claims on their merits and will treat the claims, for compliance purposes, as though NAD recommended they be discontinued. In its advertiser's statement, Verizon stated that it 'will comply with NAD's recommendations.' All BBB National Programs case decision summaries can be found in the case decision library. For the full text of NAD, NARB, and CARU decisions, subscribe to the online archive. Per NAD/NARB Procedures, this release may not be used for promotional purposes. About BBB National Programs: BBB National Programs, a non-profit organization, is the home of U.S. independent industry self-regulation, currently operating more than 20 globally recognized programs that have been helping enhance consumer trust in business for more than 50 years. These programs provide third-party accountability and dispute resolution services that address existing and emerging industry issues, create fair competition for businesses, and a better experience for consumers. BBB National Programs continues to evolve its work and grow its impact by providing business guidance and fostering best practices in arenas such as advertising, child-and-teen-directed marketing, data privacy, dispute resolution, automobile warranty, technology, and emerging areas. To learn more, visit About the National Advertising Division: The National Advertising Division (NAD) of BBB National Programs provides independent self-regulation and dispute resolution services, guiding the truthfulness of advertising across the U.S. NAD reviews national advertising in all media and its decisions set consistent standards for advertising truth and accuracy, delivering meaningful protection to consumers and create fair competition for business. CONTACT: Jennie Rosenberg Media Relations BBB National Programs press@ in to access your portfolio
