In today’s Digest, we look at Amazon opening its ad stack to AI agents, Uber returning to Asia via Macau, and Publicis Groupe ending 2025 on a high.

Amazon opens ad stack to AI agents

Amazon is opening its advertising platform to AI agents with a new integration layer aimed at simplifying how advertisers and ad tech partners connect automated tools to its systems. At the IAB Annual Leadership Meeting, the company unveiled the open beta of its Amazon Ads Model Context Protocol (MCP) Server, which lets AI agents interact with Amazon Ads through a single, standardised connection eliminating the need for bespoke integrations for each workflow.

A key feature of the rollout is a set of bundled “tools” that consolidate multiple advertising actions into a single workflow. Agents can now execute these steps with a single conversational prompt, streamlining processes and reducing the cognitive load that typically slows AI-driven campaign management.

Uber returns to Asia via Macau

Uber Technologies has returned to Macau, launching its ride-hailing service in the city known for its casinos, marking the company’s first foray into a new Asian market in several years. The platform allows users to book and pay for taxi rides in multiple languages, while also offering a cross-border limousine service connecting Macau and Hong Kong, with journeys required to be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance.

The company is actively recruiting drivers to support the relaunch, offering short-term incentives for trips completed this month. Uber did not specify how many local taxi operators have joined the platform, indicating that service availability may initially be limited in a market dominated by domestic providers.

Publicis Groupe ends 2025 on a high

Publicis Groupe closed 2025 with a strong fourth-quarter performance, reporting organic growth of 5.9% and lifting full-year growth to 5.6%. Growth was broad-based across regions, with the US delivering a 5.2% increase, Asia-Pacific rising 5.8% and Europe posting growth of 4.2%, underlining a solid full-year showing across core markets.

Financial performance remained robust, supported by industry-leading margins and cash generation. The operating margin rose 20 basis points year-on-year to 18.2%, while headline earnings per share reached €7.48 (£6.46).