Fintech PR

Aireon Advancing Aviation with Investment in Next-Generation Data Products

Published

1 year ago

October 16, 2023

Credit facility from Global Infrastructure Partners
to accelerate expansion in people, products, and markets

MCLEAN, Va., Oct. 16, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Aireon, the leader in space-based automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) data for the global aviation industry, is set to expand its data product and services portfolio, bolstered by a new credit facility from Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP).

Having already established itself as the best-in-class provider of accurate, reliable, and global ADS-B data, Aireon is leveraging its market-leading position to drive innovation in data analytics and products for the global airspace. Under this new credit facility, Aireon will invest in advanced data analytic capabilities and visualization tools, aimed at driving increases in safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility for its customers.

“This new credit facility marks an important milestone for Aireon as we take the next steps as a company. In the 11 years since Aireon was created, we have become a critical part of the aviation infrastructure. And now, we are increasing our investment in the business to create new value-added aviation data products for the industry,” said Don Thoma, Aireon CEO.

“This credit facility with GIP replaces another credit facility that was put in place before the Aireon service went operational. Since that time, Aireon has grown and evolved and so have our financial needs. This new facility matches that evolution and our future growth plans,” Thoma added.

“The investment represents the eighth investment made under GIP’s Spectrum strategy. The GIP Spectrum strategy provides customized capital solutions for infrastructure projects and companies in GIP’s core areas of focus, while leveraging GIP’s significant operating expertise,” said Wesley Altman, Principal at GIP Credit. “This financing is consistent with GIP Credit’s strategy of seeking to invest in high-quality critical infrastructure assets with attractive cash flow characteristics.”

Global Infrastructure Partners, a leading infrastructure investor that specializes in investing in, owning, and operating some of the largest and most complex assets across the energy, transport, digital infrastructure, and water and waste management sectors, is a proven supporter of key infrastructure companies and projects around the world, including companies in the aviation, oil and gas, renewable energy, transportation, water, and telecommunications industries. GIP’s aviation investments include Edinburgh Airport, Gatwick Airport, Sydney Airport, and Signature Aviation.

“Global Infrastructure Partners was a natural fit to help Aireon usher in this new era of growth and innovation,” said Rich Nyren, Aireon Chief Financial Officer. “Their expertise in the transportation and digital infrastructure sectors, coupled with their commitment to helping businesses deliver high-quality products and services to their customers, make them the perfect partner for us.”

PJT Partners acted as exclusive financial advisor to Aireon in connection with this transaction.

In addition to investment in products, Aireon will be investing in talent as well; the company plans to hire for sales, business development, and engineering roles. For more information on career opportunities at Aireon, visit www.aireon.com/careers.

About Global Infrastructure Partners
Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) is a leading infrastructure investor that specializes in investing in, owning and operating some of the largest and most complex assets across the energy, transport, digital infrastructure and water and waste management sectors. With decarbonization central to our investment thesis, we believe we are well positioned to support the global energy transition. Headquartered in New York, GIP has offices in Brisbane, Dallas, Delhi, Hong Kong, London, Melbourne, Mumbai, Singapore, Stamford and Sydney.

GIP has approximately $100 billion in assets under management. Our portfolio companies have combined annual revenues of approximately $80 billion and employ over 100,000 people. We believe that our focus on real infrastructure assets, combined with our deep proprietary origination network and comprehensive operational expertise, enables us to be responsible stewards of our investors’ capital and to create positive economic impact for communities. For more information, visit www.global-infra.com.

About Aireon LLC
Aireon has deployed a space-based air traffic surveillance system for Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) equipped aircraft throughout the entire globe. Aireon is harnessing next-generation aviation surveillance technologies that were formerly ground-based and, for the first time ever, is extending their reach globally to significantly improve efficiency, enhance safety, reduce emissions, and provide cost savings benefits to all stakeholders. Space-based ADS-B surveillance covers oceanic, polar, and remote regions, and augments existing ground-based systems that are limited to terrestrial airspace. In partnership with leading ANSPs from around the world, like NAV CANADA, AirNav Ireland, ENAV, NATS UK and NAVIAIR, as well as Iridium Communications, Aireon is providing a global, real-time, space-based air traffic surveillance system, available to all aviation stakeholders. For more information, please visit www.aireon.com.

Contact: Emily Feliz
+1 571.424.5648
[email protected]

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2247215/Aireon_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/aireon-advancing-aviation-with-investment-in-next-generation-data-products-301956772.html

Fintech

Banking and Capital Markets: Navigating a Complex Future

Published

2 hours ago

November 29, 2024

Zoltan Tundik

banking-and-capital-markets:-navigating-a-complex-future

Curated in collaboration with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

The global financial industry stands at a pivotal juncture, facing a rapidly evolving landscape shaped by technological disruption, sustainability mandates, and geopolitical uncertainties. The end of prolonged accommodative monetary policies has ushered in an era of increased scrutiny, regulatory tightening, and heightened demand for innovation. At the same time, financial technology (fintech) continues to transform the sector, driving new opportunities and challenges for traditional banking systems.

This article delves into the strategic issues currently defining Banking and Capital Markets. Drawing from expert insights curated by Lutfey Siddiqi, Visiting Professor-in-Practice at LSE, it examines the dynamic risk environment, emerging technology trends, shifts in banking business models, and the growing focus on sustainability and talent development.

Key Issues Influencing Banking and Capital Markets

The Financial Risk Landscape: Heightened geopolitical tensions and regulatory demands are reshaping the industry.
Financial Technology: Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain offer potential but also pose significant implementation challenges.
Banking Business Models: Institutions are adopting diverse strategies to navigate competition and shifting market demands.
Financial Talent: Attracting the next generation of banking professionals requires a clear purpose and forward-thinking policies.
Sustainability and Finance: Balancing environmental and social goals with immediate business priorities is a growing challenge.

1. Latest Insights: Shifting the Banking Paradigm

Experts highlight the profound challenges and opportunities facing financial institutions today. From geopolitical volatility to advances in fintech, the banking landscape demands unprecedented agility. Recent developments include:

Monetary Policy Adjustments: China’s central bank explores easing policies to boost investment.
Regulatory Scrutiny: Global banking rules, such as Basel 3.1 reforms, are under review, signaling potential shifts in global supervision.
Financial Inclusion: Updates from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) aim to balance anti-money laundering standards with broader access to financial services.

These trends emphasize the need for financial institutions to anticipate disruptions while fostering resilience and innovation.

2. Strategic Context: Transforming Banking in a High-Stakes Era

2.1 The Financial Risk Landscape

Banks are grappling with an increasingly volatile environment characterized by geopolitical tensions, regulatory reforms, and market disruptions. The end of ultra-loose monetary policies has highlighted weaknesses in traditional funding models, exemplified by the high-profile collapses of Silicon Valley Bank and Credit Suisse in 2023.

Regulators are tightening oversight, expanding their focus to include non-bank institutions and fintech companies. Additionally, rising geopolitical tensions demand localized data operations, robust cybersecurity measures, and new approaches to global strategy.

Key takeaway: In an age of uncertainty, resilience and stability are essential.

2.2 Financial Technology

The Fourth Industrial Revolution continues to reshape banking through advancements like AI, blockchain, and quantum computing. However, challenges remain, such as limited real-world blockchain applications and increasing cybersecurity risks tied to digitalization.

Financial institutions must adopt technology thoughtfully, focusing on solutions that address specific operational pain points and align with organizational goals. Balancing efficiency with contingency planning for outages and cyber threats is paramount.

Key takeaway: Tech adoption must prioritize practicality, security, and alignment with purpose.

2.3 Banking Business Models

Global trends are driving a diversification of banking models. Some institutions are scaling back operations in unprofitable markets, while others are leveraging acquisitions or digital innovation to expand. The rise of big tech competitors—armed with vast behavioral data—adds a new layer of complexity to the competitive landscape.

Emerging trends include:

Consolidation of corporate and private banking services.
Strategic retreats from costly markets, such as HSBC’s exit from US retail banking.
Big tech firms offering financial services as data-driven loss leaders.

Key takeaway: Differentiation and adaptability are critical in a fragmented, competitive market.

2.4 Financial Talent

The banking sector faces a mounting talent crisis, particularly among younger generations who view the industry as outdated or misaligned with their values. To attract top talent, banks must redefine their purpose and emphasize their commitment to sustainability, innovation, and career growth opportunities.

Surveys indicate that young professionals seek workplaces offering training, flexibility, and inclusive leadership. Reskilling initiatives and a focus on digital expertise will also be key to preparing employees for the future.

Key takeaway: A compelling vision for the future of banking is essential to attract and retain top talent.

2.5 Sustainability and Finance

Sustainability has become a focal point for the financial industry, driven by growing demand for ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives. However, backlash against greenwashing and tokenism has led banks to reevaluate their approaches.

Balancing short-term priorities like energy security with long-term goals like combating climate change requires bold leadership. Opportunities abound in areas such as carbon trading, green bonds, and sustainability-linked investment products. However, success demands authenticity and a commitment to systemic change.

Key takeaway: Embedding sustainability into core operations is vital for long-term success.

Transformation Maps: A Strategic Tool for Leaders

This analysis leverages the World Economic Forum’s Strategic Intelligence Transformation Maps, which provide an interconnected view of global trends and challenges. These tools enable leaders to explore key topics, such as cybersecurity, fintech, and sustainability, and understand how they shape the future of Banking and Capital Markets.

Conclusion

The financial industry’s journey through this transformative era requires agility, innovation, and a deep commitment to purpose. From adapting to geopolitical tensions to embracing sustainability and nurturing top talent, financial institutions must strike a delicate balance between tradition and progress.

By leveraging technology, redefining business models, and embedding ESG principles into their strategies, the sector can navigate today’s challenges and build a resilient, forward-thinking future.

For more insights and resources, visit the World Economic Forum’s Strategic Intelligence platform.

The post Banking and Capital Markets: Navigating a Complex Future appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.

Fintech PR

Xinhua Silk Road: Micro-documentaries depicting people-centered governance initiatives released

Published

2 hours ago

November 29, 2024

CISION (PR Newswire)

BEIJING, Nov. 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — A series of micro-documentaries titled “the People’s City in Jing’an” has been released, showcasing real stories about the district’s initiatives in urban construction, governance, and development in Shanghai.

The series also highlights vivid practices of Jing’an in implementing the concept of a people-centered city.

Original link: https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/343370.html

Video – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2569899/video.mp4

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/xinhua-silk-road-micro-documentaries-depicting-people-centered-governance-initiatives-released-302318776.html

Fintech PR

VANTAGE FOUNDATION PARTNERS WITH FRESH START TO SUPPORT EDINBURGH COMMUNITIES

Published

2 hours ago

November 29, 2024

CISION (PR Newswire)

vantage-foundation-partners-with-fresh-start-to-support-edinburgh-communities

EDINBURGH, Scotland, Nov. 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Vantage Foundation has partnered with Fresh Start, an Edinburgh-based charity helping people who have been homeless establish themselves in their new home through the provision of goods and services. They work to end the cycle of homelessness and for a better life for those living in poverty.

Fresh Start was established in 1999 from a desire to help and support their community where issues such as homelessness, deprivation and poverty were prevalent. Taking a person-centered approach, the organisation began to distribute Starter Packs, which are packs of essential household items to help people establish themselves in their new home.

They are now distributing over 14,000 packs per year and helping over 2,000 people. They have also expanded to offer more services over the years in response to the needs of the people in their communities, such as providing kitchen appliances, cooking classes and painting and decorating services.

Vantage Foundation visited Fresh Start in November to pledge support for their cause by sponsoring Starter Packs. “We are pleased to support Fresh Start in their mission to help people make a home for themselves,” said Steven Xie, Executive Director of Vantage Foundation. “Their mission firmly resonates with us and this partnership is a reflection of our own commitment to address invisible challenges to social immobility.”

“We want to give people an opportunity to make themselves feel at home,” explained Jen McQuistan, Corporate Partnership Officer at Fresh Start. “It is important for them to have a space to call their own and develop a true sense of belonging in the community.”

For more information on Fresh Start and how you can get involved, visit their website at https://www.freshstartweb.org.uk/

About Vantage Foundation

Vantage Foundation is an independent charitable organisation launched at the McLaren Technology Centre in the UK in 2023. The foundation has worked with charity organisations around the world, including The iREDE Foundation in Nigeria, Teach For Malaysia in Malaysia, and Instituto Claret in Brazil.