SXSW 2025: What to expect?

In eight years of attending SXSW, we've never felt more uncertain about what to expect from this premier conference for marketing, innovation, technology and entertainment. SXSW has traditionally embodied future-positive thinking – applying tomorrow's mindset to today's challenges, using cutting-edge technology to address business problems and societal issues, from housing to climate change. This spirit, combined with Austin's progressive character in conservative Texas, has attracted thousands of attendees and major tech companies such as Meta, Google and Samsung.

But the landscape has changed dramatically: The US tech industry is facing consolidation and layoffs, while prominent companies are aligning with the new Trump administration and abandoning decades-long commitments to DEI and sustainability. Growing tensions between Europe and the US further complicate the relationship between regulators and tech giants.

Will this year's conference feel like the final moments of the Titanic? The orchestra playing as the ship sinks, or will it be a rallying point for those who still believe in the ideals SXSW has championed for nearly 30 years? The impressive lineup of keynote speakers suggests the latter.

Scott Galloway's 2025 predictions will undoubtedly deliver his trademark incisive critique of the American tech industry, examining how rapid policy shifts are reshaping digital innovation and consumer behavior. His analysis is likely to highlight emerging opportunities for nimble operators in markets newly abandoned by tech giants that prioritize profit over purpose.

High-profile investor Mark Cuban will explore growth opportunities for small businesses at the intersection of culture, commerce and community – increasingly important as major corporations retreat from social commitments. His panel promises practical insights for entrepreneurs navigating this changing landscape, with a particular focus on how authentic community engagement can replace corporate-driven social initiatives.

The gaming sector continues its prominence with legendary Japanese director Hideo Kojima, not only discussing his highly anticipated Death Stranding sequel, but also sharing his unique vision for how interactive entertainment can address profound social issues through innovative storytelling. His appearance reflects the growing cultural significance of gaming as both an art form and social commentary.

Neil Druckmann, the creative force behind The Last of Us franchise, will explore how storytelling transcends platforms – from console games to streaming television. His session will likely examine how emotional narratives can drive meaningful discussions about human relationships and societal structures in times of crisis.

This year's AI discussions focus on AI agents, with a deeper exploration of ethical dimensions, including transparency and accountability. After years as a "technology in search of a problem," blockchain solutions may finally find their purpose in providing accountability frameworks for automated AI systems.

The evolution of last year's conversations around "transforming AI hype into business value" continues, with a focus on market-ready solutions. Expect to see case studies that demonstrate measurable ROI, alongside candid discussions about the implementation challenges and regulatory hurdles that businesses must overcome in this new environment.

SXSW 2025 arrives at a pivotal moment for the tech industry. Whether it serves as a final celebration of bygone values or the beginning of a new resistance movement, it promises to be a fascinating reflection of our strange new world.

For more insight into what's happening at SXSW 2025, click here.