COURTLAND BROOKS - In 2024, we selected and summarized close to 700 of the top news items from the online dating industry. Match Group has reclaimed the top spot, while Tinder and Bumble closely followed. Here’s the full list of dating companies that received the most press coverage this year:
1. Match Group (81 posts)
Match Group dominated headlines with significant corporate developments. Activist investor Elliott Investment Management acquired a $1B stake in January, sending Match shares up 12%. The company approved a $1B buyback program and partnered with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT across operations. Other notable events included Match’s new Singapore office, leadership shifts with Sean Edgett as Chief Legal Officer, and Starboard Value acquiring a 6.5% stake, pushing for innovation. Match also faced challenges, including a lawsuit alleging its apps encourage compulsive usage.
2. Tinder (80 posts)
Tinder remained a key focus in 2024, with leadership changes as Faye Iosotaluno was promoted to CEO. The app expanded ID verification to the US, UK, Brazil, and Mexico and introduced new safety features to curb inappropriate behavior. Additionally, Tinder launched an exclusive dating app for celebrities and influencers, aiming to rival Raya.
3. Bumble (76 posts)
Bumble saw major executive changes under new CEO Lidiane Jones. The company implemented layoffs of ~350 employees, introduced an AI-driven "Deception Detector" to filter out scams, and rethought its signature feature of women making the first move. It also acquired the community-building app Geneva and faced multiple investor lawsuits, including a $40M biometric privacy settlement.
4. Hinge (51 posts)
Hinge focused on improving user engagement with features like Hidden Words to mute unwanted messages and limits on new matches for users with 8+ unanswered chats. The company launched a $1M fund to promote in-person connections and funded multiple social initiatives, reinforcing its reputation as a relationship-focused app.
5. Grindr (46 posts)
Celebrating its 15th anniversary, Grindr made headlines for expanding beyond casual encounters into long-term dating. The company also faced scrutiny, including a UK lawsuit alleging it shared users' HIV statuses without consent. Grindr reported strong growth, with a 32% YoY revenue increase and a stock price surge of 85%.
6. Archer (13 posts)
Archer, a Match Group-owned app targeting LGBTQ+ men, surpassed 1M downloads this year. The app introduced selfie verification and AI-driven moderation, distinguishing itself from competitors by focusing on community-building and safety.
7. Feeld (12 posts)
Feeld, catering to non-monogamous relationships, nearly doubled its turnover to £39.5M. The app underwent a rebranding and launched a magazine exploring modern relationships.
8. Matrimony (10 posts)
Matrimony.com launched MeraLuv, a dating app for Indian Americans, and WeddingLoan.com to offer financial support for wedding planning. The company also faced a setback when Google removed its apps from the Play Store due to billing disputes.
9. Muzz (10 posts)
Muzz reached 10M members and introduced Muzz Social, a networking space for Muslims. The company expanded into Pakistan with its first in-person matchmaking event and implemented chat limits to encourage meaningful conversations.
10. OkCupid (9 posts)
OkCupid celebrated its 20th anniversary but faced negative press over allegations of neglecting user safety. Reports accused management of failing to address risks of assault and misconduct on the platform.
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