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 in 2025.??

1. You’ve invested in AI, now what??

Twelve months ago, we highlighted the necessity for technology companies to innovate and adapt in a GenAI-led world. Today, with AI universally acknowledged as essential for future success across virtually every industry, it is imperative for tech companies to step up and transform AI's potential into reality. This involves not only assisting customers in their AI-driven transformations but also undergoing their own AI-powered reinvention. Over the past year, many AI projects have plateaued due to insufficient organizational readiness. To progress, tech companies must fundamentally rethink their business models and embrace autonomous AI. Here are the top 10 tech opportunities businesses should consider to stay ahead...?

Top 10 opportunities for technology companies in 2025?

2. Lights, camera, time for action?

The gaming industry is booming, sports meets streaming, and a potential TikTok ban in the US. In 2025, the media and entertainment industry will see experiential entertainment take center stage as consumers seek immersive experiences, driving investments in theme parks, live performances, and branded entertainment. AI and GenAI will become mainstream, revolutionizing content production, distribution, and personalized marketing, with executives eager to see the return on investment. It’s no doubt that the media and entertainment industry will face both exciting opportunities and tough challenges. Companies that carefully plan and execute their strategies will be the ones that succeed. These are the top 5 media and entertainment trends to watch in 2025...?

Top five media and entertainment trends to watch in 2025?

?3. Unearthing opportunity?

The mining and metals sector is undergoing a major transformation, fueled by the global drive for a greener future. As demand for minerals skyrockets, miners are balancing sustainability, financial pressure, and rising stakeholder expectations. Many are turning to mergers, acquisitions, or fresh financing to fuel growth. Yet, challenges like resource depletion and project delays threaten to slow progress on the energy transition. Environmental goals remain a priority, with half of companies confident they’ll hit their nature-positive targets by 2030. At the same time, surprising shifts — like the de-prioritization of governance and workforce risks — are emerging as miners move into less-regulated regions. These evolving dynamics highlight the top 10 risks and opportunities that will define the mining and metals industry in 2025…?

Top 10 risks and opportunities for mining and metals companies in 2025?

4. New year, new IPOs?

Looking ahead to 2025, the IPO market is shaping up for an interesting ride. After a strong recovery in 2024, with the US leading in IPO proceeds and India taking the lead in volume, there's real momentum building. With interest rates easing and post-election clarity on the horizon, investor confidence is on the rise. However, there are still a few bumps in the road, from changing fiscal policies to the growing influence of AI and ESG factors. Sectors like tech, industrials, and health are expected to make up the majority of IPOs in 2025. For companies looking to go public, it’s about staying flexible, embracing innovation, and being ready to pivot as the market shifts. With the right approach, 2025 could be a year of significant growth for those who are prepared to take advantage of new opportunities.? ?

EY Global IPO Trends 2024 ?

?5. Ringing in returns?

The private equity (PE) industry is at a crossroads, rethinking old playbooks and getting creative with how it drives returns. While trends like AI, infrastructure, and value creation are still in the spotlight, new themes are emerging for 2025. Growth is now the name of the game, with PE firms harnessing AI and advanced analytics to supercharge deal sourcing and portfolio management. Infrastructure is another hot spot, especially in energy and data centers — PE has already invested over $100 billion in data centers alone. Sovereign wealth funds (basically, large government-backed investment funds) are also stepping up; teaming up with PE firms to diversify and tackle bigger investments. Meanwhile, the definition of capital is expanding, with PE exploring fresh financing models to meet rising demand. With change management and company culture now key to success, these are the 6 trends that will shape the PE landscape in the new year…?

2025 private equity trends??

If you do one thing:?

Use the comments to let us know how you are going to shape 2025 with confidence. ?

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