Strong 3Q For Digital Advertising

U.S. digital advertising revenues rose to $26.2 billion in the third quarter of 2018, solidifying 2018’s claim as the highest-spending first three quarters on record, according to the latest IAB Internet Advertising Revenue Report released Thursday by IAB and prepared by PwC US. Digital spend for Q3 2018 estimates increased 20.6 percent over Q3 2017. In total, marketers spent $75.8 billion during 2018’s first three quarters—22 percent more than they had spent during the same period a year ago.

“2018 was a landmark year for U.S. digital advertising. Brands continued their record-breaking investment in the marketplace in the third quarter,” said Sue Hogan, Senior Vice President, Research and Measurement, IAB. “Last year saw significant growth in the OTT marketplace and in the direct-to-consumer brand ecosystem—contributing factors in digital’s successful Q3.”

“Digital has shown year-after-year that it continues to draw and engage audiences,” said David Silverman, Partner, PwC US. “It’s no surprise that advertisers are following their target customers to whatever screen they are on, and that screen is more likely to be a digital one.”

The Q3 revenue estimates are based upon a survey of the largest companies, which are then projected to the overall market based upon recent historical revenue market share. The estimates are updated, when necessary, in connection with the more detailed analysis prepared for the IAB’s half year and full year reports.

IAB sponsors the IAB Internet Advertising Revenue Report, which is conducted independently by PwC US. The data is compiled directly from information supplied by companies selling advertising on the internet. The survey includes data concerning online advertising revenues from web sites, commercial online services, free e-mail providers, and all other companies selling online advertising.

The full report is issued twice yearly for full and half-year data; and top-line quarterly estimates are issued for the first and third quarters. PwC does not audit the information and provides no opinion or other form of assurance with respect to the information.

To view previous reports, please go to www.iab.com/adrevenuereport.