BRIDGE Summit 2025 Highlights Rapid Growth In Creator Economy Driven By Global Investments

John Darsie, CEO of SALT and a Partner at SkyBridge, highlighted the remarkable scale achieved by the BRIDGE Summit in its inaugural year. He noted that this reflects the UAE's ambition to boost the media and creator economy. Speaking to Emirates News Agency (WAM), Darsie observed that the creator economy is expanding rapidly, driven by investments from entities like SkyBridge and UAE-based sovereign and private investors.

Darsie emphasised that traditional centralised entities no longer dominate as the sole sources of news and media. This shift has lowered barriers to entry, fostering a more democratised system for information, news, and entertainment. He acknowledged that while this evolution presents challenges in arbitrating truth, addressing these issues could lead to a more balanced media landscape.

Discussing investment trends, Darsie noted that capital is increasingly being directed towards both mature companies and early-stage creators. Significant funding is flowing to established firms as well as emerging podcasters, platforms, and creator-led ventures. The main challenge lies in bridging the gap between these two ends of the market.

Darsie identified the democratisation of news, media, and entertainment as a major transformation in the industry. This change empowers creators from diverse backgrounds to engage in global conversations. He described this development as positive, enabling young people and individuals worldwide to contribute meaningfully.

Darsie anticipated continued growth in creator-based media enterprises with increased collaboration among creators. He pointed out existing patterns where YouTube streamers and independent journalists collaborate on events and discussions. As media decentralises further, collaboration across independent entities is expected to rise.

The BRIDGE Summit left a strong impression on Darsie due to the enthusiasm among creators and young people for the digital economy. He noted that the energy on the exhibition floor indicates future directions for global media and business models.

Darsie concluded by stating that finding a balance between traditional systems and new approaches will strengthen the media landscape. He believes this will lead to a more democratised environment where diverse voices can thrive.

With inputs from WAM