01. The Great Filter
The "middle class" of dating profiles has effectively vanished. In 2024, we observed a bell curve distribution of match rates. Entering 2026, that curve has inverted.
We call this The Great Filter. Algorithms have become so efficient at sorting desirability that profiles with a VCI (Vibe Compatibility Index) between 4.0 and 6.0 are seeing virtually zero organic visibility. (Read our deep dive on why this is happening).
FIG 1.1: THE APPLICANT DISTRIBUTION (VCI SCORE)
Source: Zygnal Internal Data, Jan-Dec 2025
Ideally, a profile improvement of 10% would yield 10% more matches. What we see instead is a step-function. Improving from a 5.5 to a 6.8 VCI often yields a 400% increase in inbound interest.
02. Geography is Destiny
Not all markets are efficient. Our "Dating Difficulty Index" shows massive variance between cities.Dubai currently ranks as the most brutal market in our dataset, with a ghosting rate of 90%.
FIG 2.1: DIFFICULTY DISTRIBUTION BY CITY
Compare this to markets like Tokyo or Amsterdam, where cultural norms enforce higher response rates even among lower-affinity matches. Your VCI score is relative to your local pool. A "7" in New York might be an "8.5" in a smaller market.
03. The Ghosting Epidemic
The global average ghosting rate has hit 45.3%, an all-time high. This isn't just "rudeness" — it's liquidity shock. Users are overwhelmed by options (or the illusion of them) and have stopped treating conversations as social contracts.
The Fix: Our data shows that profiles with a VCI > 7.5 experience 40% less ghosting. High-signal profiles command respect. Low-signal profiles are treated as disposable.
04. Explore City-Specific Data
Every market has its own dynamics. Dive into our city-by-city breakdowns to understand the unique challenges and strategies that work in your local dating scene.
Don't Be A Statistic
The 2026 market is ruthless to the unoptimized. Stop guessing. Get your VCI score and join the top 10%.
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