Fintech PR

Investment Priorities Set Digital Champions Apart

Published

5 years ago

June 27, 2019

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Companies focusing on upskilling their workforces and spending more on technology/IT are typically more digitally mature than companies spending less on these priorities, according to a study by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) based on a survey of 1,800 companies in Asia, the EU, and the US. Among industries surveyed, financial institutions and telecommunications companies are the most digitally advanced, with more than 25% of those companies across the globe qualifying as digital champions. Energy and public sector institutions trail, with more than 40% of those companies dubbed digital laggards.

“It’s clear that prioritizing investments correctly is one of surest ways to become digitally mature,” says Michael Grebe, senior partner and technology expert at BCG. Michael Ruessmann, BCG senior partner and expert on digital transformation, adds, “The laggards need to pay close attention to how industry leaders allocate their precious investment resources if they are to remain competitive and not lose ground.”

“Digital Acceleration Index” Measures the Degree of Digital Maturity
The study was based on BCG’s Digital Acceleration Index (DAI). BCG asked managers and executives to assess their companies’ digital maturity against defined criteria on a scale from one to four in 35 categories. The firm then aggregated those raw scores and assigned values to their responses from 0 to 100. Companies with a DAI of 67 to 100 qualified as champions, while those with a DAI of 43 or less were categorized as laggards.

Where Do Digital Champions Come From?
The survey was conducted across nine industries in three regions—Asia, the EU, and the US. The best performing industry was the financial services industry in Asia with a DAI score of about 60. In both the EU and US, telecommunications was the leading industry. Particularly interesting was the strong performance in Asia of certain industries that are lagging elsewhere. Consumer companies in Asia rate their digital maturity higher than they do in the US and Europe. “This was our first year including Asia in our survey, and the Asian companies came out strong. Their digital maturity across industries is high compared with global peers,” says Michael Ruessmann.

Digital Champions Achieve Breakthrough Performance in Three Key Ways
The study identified three boosters that champions rely on to become digitally mature. First, they spend over 5% of OPEX on digital projects. Notably, the share of US champions investing at this level (90%) is substantially higher than peers in Asia (75%) and the EU (65%). Champions everywhere also tend to devote more than 10% of their employees to digital roles and digital projects. Here, Asian champions (54%) are slightly ahead of US peers (51%) and more noticeably ahead of EU (44%) peers. This workforce focus helps Asian companies score highest for “new ways of working.” Finally, champions also scale up digital solutions more broadly than laggards and aren’t as likely to get stuck in use-case pilots. “After three years of conducting our survey, these digital boosters have been consistent, and have reliably helped to set champions apart,” says Michael Grebe.

Digital Champions Have Sharp Investment Focus
Champions plan to grow their digital workforces and spend more on upskilling their workforces than laggards. The study found that three out of four champions plan to grow their digital workforce more than 20%. Looking through a regional lens, over 90% of champions in Asia plan to grow their staff at this rate, while EU and US champions are less ambitious—70% and 65%, respectively.

But champions also have an internal focus. Half of champions plan to upskill more than 20% of their staff with digital capabilities, while fewer than a third of laggards do. Interestingly, champions invest 22% of their total digital investment in technology/IT, while laggards spend 16%. But this incremental investment contributes to a much higher DAI score in technology/IT, 78 DAI vs. 29 DAI, and implies that the gap between champions and laggards is likely to grow.

Asian Champions Are Leading the Way in Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Globally, around half of champions dedicate more than 10% of the digital workforce to AI, while a substantially smaller number of laggards (29%) do so. Asian companies have the most people working on AI. The study found that twice as many Asian companies dedicate more than 10% of their digital staff to AI compared with the EU and US. Asian companies are also further along in AI adoption, with 87% of Asian companies having some level of AI adoption vs. 78% in the EU and 74% in the US.

SOURCE Boston Consulting Group (BCG)

Fintech PR

Launch of Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding

Published

2 hours ago

November 16, 2024

CISION (PR Newswire)

A strategic partnership between two of the largest Qatari companies to add value to the local and regional market, enhancing food security and innovation in several key sectors.

DOHA, Qatar, Nov. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Senyar Trading & Distribution Company and Al Baladi Holding have announced the launch of their strategic partnership under the name of ‘Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding’. The launch ceremony was attended by Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of Al Faisal Holding, and Mr. Mohammed Abdullah Al Attiyah, Chairman of Al Baladi Holding. This partnership aims to provide added value to the Qatari and regional markets, and to enhance the role of Qatari companies in supporting and developing the local economy in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.

Within this partnership, a strong economic icon was established under the name ‘Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding Group’, capable of implementing huge projects across the MENA region in a number of different vital sectors, especially livestock and agricultural production projects, which contributes to supporting food security and enhancing livestock in a sustainable manner. In addition, the retail sector constitutes a significant part of the Company’s activities.

Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding Group Holding includes Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding LLC, based in Qatar, Al Faisal Al Baladi Group for Malls Management and Operations, based in Egypt, and Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding, based in the Sultanate of Oman. As well as livestock and agricultural production, these companies will operate in several diverse sectors including distribution and wholesale, manufacturing, hospitality and hotels, restaurants, food and beverages, with the retail sector also constituting a significant area of focus. Through these activities, they will seek to meet the growing demand for innovative products and solutions, while supporting sustainable economic development in Qatar and the region.

Commenting on this announcement, Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of Al Faisal Holding, stated: “I am pleased to witness the formation of this strategic partnership that represents the development of the private sector in Qatar and enhances its ability to compete through cooperations built on solid foundations. This partnership is a realization of Qatar Vision 2030 of empowering the private sector and enhancing its contribution to the local economy. I wish both parties success in this promising partnership.”

Mr Mohammed Abdullah Al Attiyah, Chairman of Al Baladi Holding and Chairman of Al Faisal Al Baladi, said: “We are delighted with this cooperation which opens new horizons for growth and expansion. Al Baladi Holding has achieved remarkable successes in recent years, and this partnership comes to underpin our position in the market and expand the scope of our activities. We hope that Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding will contribute to the development of successful and innovative projects that will be a source of pride for everyone.”

Sheikh Mohammed bin Faisal Al Thani, Vice Chairman of Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding, added: “We share common goals, integrated resources, and expertise with Al Baladi Holding. Through this partnership, we will achieve integration and synergy in diverse businesses to maximize value for all parties, including consumers and investors, which will benefit all stakeholders and contribute to achieving a positive impact across every level.”

Mr. Abdullah Mohammed Al Attiyah, Vice Chairman of Al Baladi Holding, said: “Undoubtedly, the stability of the Qatari economy, the diversity of investment opportunities, and the positive business environment, have all contributed to Al Baladi Holding’s market leading position. We look forward to this partnership with confidence in its promise to help build a bright future”

Mr. Tarek Mahmoud Al Sayed, Board Member of Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding, added: “Food security projects hold special importance, especially in their comprehensive and sustainable concept, which constitute an essential part of our future strategy. We seek to play a pivotal role in the region through livestock and agricultural production projects, as we currently own a number of livestock and agricultural production companies in Qatar and Oman, and we plan to expand and launch new projects in a number of countries in the region and North Africa. This will support Al Faisal Al Baladi in becoming a leading company in achieving food security at the regional level.”

Mr Hany Al Sayyadi, CEO and Board Member of Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding, concluded by saying: “This partnership strengthens our diversified investment portfolio and facilitates the expansions of our presence in regional and global markets. Our vision is to achieve a strong presence in the Middle East region, by focusing on innovation and quality in all our sectors. This partnership is a natural extension of the vision of both companies to enhance economic integration and contribute to driving development in Qatar and the region.”

Al Faisal Al Baladi plans to expand its business activities in regional and global markets, by utilizing the diverse investment opportunities represented by the manufacturing, hospitality and retail sectors. The Group’s current portfolio includes more than 30 leading companies in their fields, including Al Baladi and Al Baladi Express Markets, Al Wajba Dairy and Juice Factory, City Limousine Company, in addition to a number of restaurants and companies in the food sector, and many others.

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2558072/Al_Baladi_Holding_Group.jpg
Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2558073/Al_Baladi_Holding_Group_1.jpg

Chairman of Al Faisal Holding Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani, and Chairman of Al Baladi Holding Mohammed Abdullah Al Attiyah along with other officials during the launch of Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/launch-of-al-faisal-al-baladi-holding-302305819.html

Fintech PR

Sustainable Infrastructure Holding Company (“SISCO”) Q3FY24 revenue (excluding accounting construction revenue) increases by 23.8% to 341.8 million

Published

8 hours ago

November 16, 2024

CISION (PR Newswire)

Revenue grew by 23.8% compared to previous year
Gross profit of SAR 179.8 million, a 21.7% increase compared to Q3FY23
Adjusted EBITDA rose 29.5% to SAR 210.2 million

JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, Nov. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Sustainable Infrastructure Holding Company (“SISCO”, “TADAWUL: 2190”), Saudi Arabia’s leading strategic investor in Ports & Logistics and Water Solutions has announced its financial results for the quarter ended 30 September 2024.

Revenues for the third quarter of 2024, excluding accounting construction revenue, grew by 23.8% compared to Q3FY23 to reach SAR 341.8 million. On a quarter-to-quarter basis, revenues grew by 13.0% compared to Q2FY24.

The third-quarter gross profit of SAR 179.8 million represents 14.7% quarter-on-quarter growth and 21.7% growth compared to Q3FY23. The gross profit margin for Q3FY24 was down 0.9% year-on-year, due to increased depreciation and direct costs, but was up 0.8% quarter-on-quarter, in line with expectations. Year-to-date saw gross profits increase by 13.8% to SAR 469.5 million.

Adjusted EBITDA growth rose 29.5% to SAR 210.2 million compared to Q3FY23, aligning SISCO with strategic goals. Quarter-on-quarter growth was 20.8%, with a year-to-date increase of 17.7% to SAR 543.8 million.

SISCO reports a strong recovery in the Red Sea Gateway Terminal from subdued Q3FY23 Port segment results due to the Red Sea situation. Port volume reached 828,868 TEUs in Q3FY24, returning to levels similar to Q4FY23.

Commenting on the results: Eng. Khalid Suleimani, Group CEO, SISCO said:

“I am pleased to report that SISCO has continued to demonstrate strong growth and operational performance in Q3FY24, with revenues improving by 23.8% compared to Q3FY23. Our Ports segment, which remains a key growth driver, saw a significant increase, leading to robust results despite the Red Sea challenges.

Net income remains strong, despite the one-off payment of SAR 25 million to Zakat. Another highlight of the quarter is the impressive recovery in the Red Sea Gateway Terminal, highlighting it’s resilience.

We are also excited to announce the Multi-Purpose Terminals (MPT) concession, which will allow us to expand operations across all non-containerised port facilities in the Red Sea Gateway Terminal. This strategic initiative positions SISCO to capture further growth opportunities domestically and internationally.

Looking ahead, we remain committed to executing our five-year strategy to double revenues by 2026 and continue delivering long-term value to our shareholders.”

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/sustainable-infrastructure-holding-company-sisco-q3fy24-revenue-excluding-accounting-construction-revenue-increases-by-23-8-to-341-8-million-302307352.html

Fintech PR

Bybit Crypto Titans: November Arena Boasts 55,000 USDT in Rewards

Published

24 hours ago

November 15, 2024

CISION (PR Newswire)

bybit-crypto-titans:-november-arena-boasts-55,000-usdt-in-rewards

DUBAI, UAE, Nov. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, opens up the November arena for the Bybit Crypto Titans trading competition. Available for users in select regions, a prize pool of 55,000 USDT will be available for a limited time only.

From now to Nov. 30, eligible traders can level up their trading strategies and amplify their winning chances by inviting friends to share two prize pools in two simple steps: register for the event at the Grand Arena, and invite friends and trade.

Battlefields: Once in the Arena, users can pick their battlefields. Up to 30,000 USDT are up for grabs in the Team Battlefield ranked by total trading volume, while another 15,000 USDT is reserved for traders in the Solo Battlefield competing by PnL(%).

More perks: Additionally, top traders and leaders will receive extra perks. Participants will receive a bonus 5 USDT for every new qualified referee, and the first 50 Team Leaders whose team exceeds a threshold amount in trading volume will be entitled to a 100 USDT bonus.

“As trading volumes overall are climbing, we are seeing so many talented traders in our community with a knack for navigating fast-moving markets. This event gives some of them an incentive to share their passion with their friends, and there is room for rewards for the solo trading pros to shine as well,” said Joan Han, Sales and Marketing Director of Bybit.

Market sentiment and activities have been trending up in recent weeks globally, and the enthusiasm is shared among users in niche markets. While traders rush to capture opportunities in a heated market, the Crypto Titans competition encourages users to bring out the best trading game and hone their trading skills for healthier returns.

Find out more about Bybit’s Crypto Titans: November Showdown, terms and conditions apply.

#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving over 50 million users. Established in 2018, Bybit provides a professional platform where crypto investors and traders can find an ultra-fast matching engine, 24/7 customer service, and multilingual community support. Bybit is a proud partner of Formula One’s reigning Constructors’ and Drivers’ champions: the Oracle Red Bull Racing team.

For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press

For media inquiries, please contact: [email protected]

For more information, please visit: https://www.bybit.com

For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media