Online 'Manosphere' Revealed as Multibillion-Dollar Grievance Marketplace

A new report finds that the so-called manosphere operates like a pyramid scheme, funneling young men into paid communities, supplements, crypto scams and high-priced coaching.

A joint analysis by Reset Tech and the nonprofit Equimundo describes the digital ecosystem that cultivates “red-pilled” men as a multibillion-dollar grievance industry rather than a grassroots movement. By exploiting search queries about dating, fitness or finance, bad actors push a narrative of victimhood and then monetize it through paid forums, unregulated supplements, crypto schemes and expensive coaching. The authors estimate Andrew Tate’s subscription-based “Real World” program brings in $184 million a year, while top streamers like Adin Ross earn $30,000-$50,000 per hour and figures such as Joe Rogan command speaking fees over $200,000.

Influencers also profit from “looksmaxxing” content that generated 14.6 billion views across TikTok, Instagram and Facebook, a reach amplified by recommendation algorithms. The report draws parallels to pro-eating-disorder content aimed at women, noting that platforms have acted less decisively against misogynistic material. Gary Barker of Equimundo warns that young adult men lack institutional support and are left to navigate a market that profits from their anger and insecurity.