Your Weekend Essentials: 4 must-reads to dive into
Take Charge of Change as we explore the latest trends and developments through insights from RSM's global experts.
1. Mathematics and accelerating societal biases
In today's tech-driven business world, digital technology is the backbone of operations, talent acquisition, and employee experiences.
However, beneath the surface of these powerful tools lies a complex challenge: biases in algorithms. These biases have the potential to perpetuate discrimination and inequality.
Candice Eaton Gaul, RSM’s Global Diversity and Inclusion Leader, engages in an insightful conversation with well-renowned mathematician Dr. Hannah Fry.
Together, they unravel the role of mathematics, data, and algorithms in accelerating societal biases.
2. Sustainability takes root in MENA
MENA (Middle East & North Africa) is seizing the opportunity to embrace sustainability, adopting low-carbon energy sources and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) policies. Historically finance-focused, CSR initiatives triggered a shift towards sustainability.
ESG transformation has revolutionised MENA's business landscape, with firms actively managing their ESG ratings, influenced by MSCI, S&P Global, and CDP. Environmental, social, and governance challenges are being addressed through ESG maturity assessments and sustainability reporting.
ESG-focused products are propelling wealth management growth in MENA, underlining the region's dedication to ESG principles, shaping access to global capital and market entry, with MENA recognising its business appeal and focusing on implementation.
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3. Crypto's future in Latin America
Cryptocurrency adoption in Latin America is on the rise, but volatility poses challenges. Stablecoins, backed by traditional currencies, offer a more stable alternative.
The region has witnessed significant crypto growth, with Brazil leading the way, boasting around 15 million crypto users. Countries like Argentina and Venezuela, with unstable economies and high inflation, find crypto appealing. The pandemic accelerated technology adoption and cross-border transactions, boosting crypto use.
While Bitcoin's volatility deterred some investors, stablecoins, pegged to fiat currencies, provide protection from devaluation. While speculative investors favor volatility, stablecoins offer stability and convenience, potentially transforming the financial landscape in the region.
4. Rising cybersecurity opportunities in M&A
The global M&A landscape faces growing cybersecurity threats in an increasingly interconnected world. The cybersecurity market is poised to reach $500 billion by the end of the decade due to IoT, cloud solutions, and smart devices.
This trend is driving investments in cybersecurity despite potential economic downturns. The sector's rapid development is crucial in information sharing. Cybersecurity's impact on data protection and GDPR compliance is noted, promoting best practices internally.
Trust and experience become vital in this field. People, performance, and platform drive M&A activity in this area. The importance of effective cybersecurity systems is growing across borders in a more interconnected world.
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