CO/STUDIOS

2025 is here, and with it comes the next wave of opportunity. At CO/STUDIOS, we’re doubling down on what matters: supporting emerging industries, empowering founders, and scaling ideas that make an impact. This year isn’t just about what we build. it’s about how we build it, together. Let’s get to work. #2025 #EmergingIndustries #COSTUDIOS

RECOMMENDED // “MR McMAHON” via Netflix A Complex Legacy of Creative Risk. Vince McMahon’s story is not a blueprint, but it is undeniable that he tapped into something profound in American pop culture. The Netflix documentary Mr. McMahon explores how he turned professional wrestling into a cultural phenomenon, navigating bold risks and controversial decisions along the way. For creative entrepreneurs, it’s a chance to examine the impact of taking risks and shaping industries while grappling with the complicated legacies that come with it. McMahon’s journey underscores how cultural relevance is often born at the intersection of ambition, timing, and controversy.

The Fashion Workers Act: Setting New Standards for Creative Industries 📜 The Basics: New York’s Fashion Workers Act (A6045/S8638), signed into law this year, introduces vital protections for models, stylists, makeup artists, and other independent contractors in the fashion industry. Historically operating with minimal oversight, these workers now gain critical safeguards against financial exploitation and unsafe conditions. The Act requires management agencies to: • Provide written contracts and transparent agreements. • Act in the best interests of their talent, fulfilling fiduciary duties. • Implement zero-tolerance policies for harassment and abuse. • Obtain consent for digital replicas, including pay, use terms, and duration. • Ensure timely payments and eliminate exploitative financial practices. 🌍 Why It Matters: New York’s fashion industry employs over 180,000 workers, contributing nearly $11 billion in wages annually. Despite its cultural and economic significance, the sector has lacked comprehensive labor protections—until now. This legislation marks a major shift, addressing long-standing issues while setting a precedent for industries reliant on creative talent. It also signals that as industries evolve, so will regulatory scrutiny. 💡 Insights for Emerging Companies: The Fashion Workers Act is a potential blueprint for all creative sectors to adopt ethical practices: 1. Stay Ahead of Regulation: Transparency and fair practices are becoming non-negotiable across industries. 2. Strengthen Talent Relationships: Ethical practices build loyalty and reduce turnover, positioning your brand as a leader. 3. Adapt to Technological Shifts: Protections for digital replicas highlight the growing need for responsible innovation. #FashionWorkersAct #LaborRights #CreativeIndustries #EmergingTrends #COStudios

RECOMMENDED // “US to lead $4B No-Alcohol Growth by 2028” via The Spirits Business https://lnkd.in/gwwNZ_JC #nextgenbeverages #noalc #emergingindustries

Texas House Bill 1549: Proposed Restrictions on Sexual Wellness Product Sales Texas is considering new legislation that would restrict the sale of sexual wellness products in major retail stores. Here’s a breakdown of the proposed bill: 📜 The Basics: House Bill 1549, introduced by State Representative Hillary Hickland, aims to prohibit the sale of “obscene devices”—including vibrators and similar products—in general retail stores such as Target, Walmart, and CVS. The bill would confine sales of these items to age-restricted venues like sex shops and strip clubs. Retailers found in violation could face fines up to $5,000 per offense. 🌍 Why It Matters: This proposal seeks to prevent children’s exposure to sexual wellness products in family-oriented retail environments. Supporters argue it upholds community values and protects minors, while critics view it as an overreach that could limit adult access to legal products and impede the normalization of sexual wellness. 💡 Implications for Retailers and Brands: • Compliance Challenges: Retailers may need to adjust inventory and store layouts in Texas to comply with potential new regulations, affecting merchandising strategies and sales. • Market Access: Brands specializing in sexual wellness products could face restricted access to mainstream retail channels, impacting market reach and consumer accessibility. • Legal Precedents: Previous attempts to regulate the sale of such products in Texas have been deemed unconstitutional, raising questions about the enforceability of the proposed bill. As this legislation progresses, it’s crucial for retailers and brands in the sexual wellness industry to monitor developments and prepare for potential changes that could impact operations and consumer engagement in Texas.

RECOMMENDED // “The Biggest Pinterest Trends for 2025” via Pinterest https://lnkd.in/eF9BpyNa

RECOMMENDED // Big Ideas on Tech 2025 by Andreessen Horowitz https://lnkd.in/dx7ctRjS

The Corporate Transparency Act: A New Era for Business Accountability 📜 The Basics: The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) is now in effect, requiring U.S.-based companies to disclose beneficial ownership information to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). This law targets shell companies and aims to combat money laundering, fraud, and tax evasion by increasing transparency in business operations. 🌍 Why It Matters: This marks a major shift in corporate governance, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises. With over 30 million businesses expected to report under this act, the CTA strengthens oversight and levels the playing field for legitimate companies. 💡 Opportunities and Watchouts for Companies: For early-stage startups and growing businesses, compliance is critical. While the CTA introduces administrative burdens, it also fosters trust with investors and partners by promoting transparency. Companies that embrace these changes can position themselves as ethical leaders in their industries. This law is a clear reminder that accountability is no longer optional. Emerging businesses must adapt to a world where transparency isn’t just a requirement—it’s a competitive advantage. #CorporateGovernance #Transparency #EmergingIndustries #COStudios

Australia’s New Social Media Law: Protecting Kids Under 16 📜 The Basics: Australia’s latest social media regulation bans children under 16 from creating accounts on major platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook. Social media companies are required to implement age verification systems, with penalties for non-compliance reaching $33 million USD. 🌍 Why It Matters: This law aims to address growing concerns about online safety, particularly for minors. By limiting access, it seeks to reduce risks like cyberbullying and exposure to harmful content while pushing platforms to develop stronger protections for younger users. 💡 Opportunities for Companies: For startups and digital platforms, this law presents an opportunity to innovate in online safety solutions, particularly around age verification and privacy controls. It’s a timely reminder for emerging industries to stay ahead of global regulatory trends shaping the future of digital interaction. Australia’s move sets a precedent for online safety worldwide, especially in safeguarding the next generation. #SocialMedia #OnlineSafety #EmergingIndustries

RECOMMENDED // “Canning Cannabis: Consumer Preferences for CBD and THC infused beverages” via Cambridge University Press & Assessment https://lnkd.in/gfu-6FMs