5 must reads for the weekend

We keep our ear to the ground for the interesting stats, insights and discussion points you need to feel in the know.?

1. Love at first transformation?

Let’s take a trip to Baden, Switzerland, where Accelleron is on a mission to transform its finance and tax functions under CFO Adrian Grossenbacher. After separating from ABB, a fellow Swedish corporation, he faced the challenge of establishing a robust operation in just 12 months. By embracing a data-driven finance model, they quickly rolled out a new ERP (enterprise resource planning) system that enhances customer connections and ensures compliance. Just four months in, they began piloting the system, and by July 2023, all 47 locations were operational. Here’s how finance and tax are the key to their success...?

How a new approach is turbocharging Accelleron's finance function

2. Falling for GenAI?

It’s been two years since GenAI emerged as a game-changer for technology service providers, changing how they work and serve customers. It has the potential to boost productivity by 43-45% across many jobs by 2030, which means people can get more done in less time. As businesses moved from just trying out GenAI to using it more widely in 2024, it became a hot topic in meetings, leading to more investments to take advantage of its benefits. Indian tech companies are at the forefront of this change, not only helping their clients use GenAI but also using it in their own work to drive profits and innovation in the years ahead.?

GenAI Reshaping Technology Services 2025: Innovation & Growth?

3. When geopolitics met business?

February 2025 is?shaking things up?for businesses as the EU steps up its defense spending to tackle growing security threats and meet US demands for NATO contributions. At the same time, new US trade restrictions are creating ripples in the global automotive market, potentially leading to confusion. Political instability in South Korea and Mozambique adds to the uncertainty, while the rise of populist policies may lead to more protectionist measures and tougher immigration rules.?Here’s what these global events mean for the business landscape...?

Geostrategic Analysis: February 2025 edition?

4. A match made in finance?

With crypto now worth over $2 trillion, financial institutions face a big opportunity that they can’t afford to ignore – the chance to accept crypto-origin funds. But doing so comes with big risks, like money laundering, fraud, and tax evasion. To handle this tricky situation, institutions need to first figure out how much risk they’re willing to take and understand the dangers involved. As traditional finance and crypto continue to mix, institutions must adapt quickly and create solid risk management plans to take advantage of these opportunities while keeping their reputation intact. Will they lead the way or fall behind??

From blockchain to bank: accepting crypto-origin funds in finance?

5. Keep it in the boardroom?

The business landscape is uncertain, and boards need to help their companies make smart choices to succeed. While navigating choppy waters, they must focus on reviewing their assets, keeping technology secure, and attracting the best talent. By planning for different scenarios related to politics, the economy, labor, and climate, boards can help their companies stay strong. To succeed in 2025, consider these four focus areas for boards...?

Americas board priorities 2025 ?

If you do one thing:?

Spread some love.?

Don’t miss a must read, find all the issues of the weekly must reads newsletter by EY on LinkedIn here.?