AUDIENCE SEGMENTATION MISSTEP: Facebook has found itself in a sticky situation regarding the targeting options it offers advertisers on its self-service platform.  A handful of individuals have initiated a class-action lawsuit alleging discriminatory practices based on FB’s “Exclude People” button.  The argument is that advertisers could knowingly avoid serving ads for things like housing and personal services to minority groups, which would violate a variety of Federal laws.  While FB is denying any discriminatory intent, including something as blatant as an Exclude People button on its API seems like they’re asking for trouble.  My guess is their self-service targeting options will be rejiggered sooner than later.  (link)

TWITTER TURNOVER: I usually don’t comment on individual personnel moves, but this one’s a biggie.  Yesterday Twitter CRO Adam Bain announced that he’s stepping down after five years in the position.  Twitter is trying to evolve into the next chapter of its existence.  And with moves like eliminating 9% of its sales force and losing its CRO, it’s not totally clear where direct ad sales falls within their new priorities.  (link)

TRITON’S SEPTEMBER RATINGS: The measurement division at Triton must be working overtime to catch up to present day, because they’ve released yet another Webcast Metrics Monthly Ratings.  This time it’s for September – just two weeks after the August monthly.  The September ratings showed solid growth, going +3% MoM from August, and +12% YoY.  So far this year the streaming industry’s AAS (Average Active Sessions) has grown 9% since January – which is impressive by any standard.  Check out the usual historical graph below.  (link)

“GO CUBS GO” MAKES THE CHARTS: And finally, just when you thought Cubbie-mania was dying down . . . the Cubs anthem “Go Cubs Go” surges onto this week’s Billboard charts!  Yes the song is cheesy, and yes it’s overplayed.  But every team (and every song) deserves it’s day in the sun, and today is definitely song author Steve Goodman’s day!  (link)

Have a great Thursday everyone!