PASSIONATE IN MARKETING – Aisle has introduced a Money Back Guarantee for select paid plans as it celebrates its 12th anniversary. The program allows eligible users who actively use the app but do not receive a valid match within 30 days to claim a refund. The initiative is aimed at users seeking serious relationships.
PASSIONATE IN MARKETING – Muzz has launched a new campaign highlighting the importance of allowing Muslim singles to make their own marriage decisions. The campaign film portrays the pressures of traditional matchmaking, where family expectations can overshadow the two people considering marriage, and encourages more space for genuine conversations before a decision is made. The film will be released across Muzz’s digital and social media channels.
SBS NEWS – South Australia has proposed legislation that would ban convicted domestic violence and sex offenders from using dating apps. Under the plan, offenders would be prohibited from dating platforms for at least 10 years, with the most serious offenders facing lifetime bans. Breaching the ban could result in up to five years’ imprisonment. The government is developing the details of the proposal in consultation with dating app companies, including Match Group, and victim advocates.
LINKEDIN – In a CNBC interview, Match Group CEO Spencer Rascoff said Tinder remains the number one dating app in 166 countries and is too important to the company’s revenue and profitability not to return to growth. He said Tinder’s key metrics were previously declining by ~10% and more YOY, but that has improved to ~5-6%. Monthly active user declines have also narrowed from ~12% to 6-7%, although he said the turnaround is still in progress. He said Match Group’s focus is on reducing the pressure of online dating for Gen Z, citing Tinder’s Double Date feature, which is now used by about a quarter of its Gen Z users. Rascoff added that Tinder already monetizes well, and that Match Group continues to return its cash flow to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks.
THE SUN – Nikkahgram, a Muslim matchmaking platform operating in the UK, has faced calls to be shut down after posting a video suggesting fathers should marry off their daughters when they reach puberty. The video was removed following criticism, and the company said it does not promote marriage under the age of 18.
OPW – We’re dedicated to providing you with quality daily executive summaries and intelligence. Subscribe here, and send to a friend. We find news and info that will help make you smarter and help you make better informed decisions. Online Personals Watch has been run by the Courtland Brooks team since 2004.
AUSTRALIAN LEISURE MANAGEMENT – SURF has partnered with HYROX Australia to help singles meet through the fitness racing community. The dating app now lets users filter for HYROX athletes and people training for upcoming events. The partnership will also introduce “singles” wristbands at races and a Blind First Date Mixed Doubles event in Australia in Autumn 2027. SURF is expanding its focus on community-based, in-person dating through partnerships with HYROX, the World Surf League US Open of Surfing, and Palm Tree Music Festival.
SCANX – Matrimony.com reported unaudited consolidated billings of ₹13,603 lakhs ($14.3M) for the quarter ended June 30, 2026, up 7.8% from ₹12,616 lakhs ($13.2M) a year earlier. The Matchmaking Services segment generated ₹13,527 lakhs ($14.2M), up from ₹12,531 lakhs ($13.1M), while Marriage Services & Others declined to ₹76 lakhs ($79K) from ₹85 lakhs ($89K).
OPW – In the latest episode of Challenges of a Matchmaker, Arlene Washburn argues that matchmaking is far more regulated than many matchmakers realize. The conversation covers the difference between coaching and simply giving feedback, why matchmakers who offer coaching should receive proper training, the importance of structured client follow-up after every introduction, and the need for consistent sales and operational processes. Washburn also discusses data privacy, compliance across jurisdictions, and why many matchmakers are using contracts that may not meet legal requirements. Her overarching message is that successful matchmaking is built on professional standards, ethical practice, and a commitment to continuous learning as laws, technology, and client expectations evolve.
Washburn is the founder of the International Matchmaking Compliance Board, which helps matchmakers understand and comply with legal and regulatory requirements across jurisdictions.
OPW – SayMore, a new AI-powered dating assistant, has launched on iOS with tools designed to help users navigate conversations on dating apps. The app suggests replies, generates openers, and analyzes incoming messages to help users decide how to respond. According to founder Neil Stanley, the product is aimed primarily at adults who want more confidence when messaging. An Android version is in development, and the company says it is open to future partnerships with dating apps while also launching an affiliate program for publishers and creators.