The COVID-19 pandemic has driven a step-change across the European payments industry. We’ve seen an acceleration of cashless payments across markets where cash has historically been dominant. And an exponential increase in e-commerce activity as consumers were forced to stay at home during national lockdowns
Approaches to HR planning has changed significantly, and they will continue to do so. Amongst the many impacts Covid-19 has had, it’s proved that remote working is not only possible for the banking sector, but that in the right circumstances it can be more productive than traditional working models.
Employee wellbeing has been rising up the HR agenda in recent years, with employers increasingly recognising the benefits of happier, healthier workforces. Mental health problems can affect anyone regardless of the industry they work in, but some sectors see a higher prevalence of wellbeing issues than others.
Technology has soared during the COVID crisis, but the outlook for fintech funding has been mixed, as investors prioritized surety, especially during the pandemic’s early days. Although fintech funding experienced a pronounced drop during the first half of 2020 across VC, PE and M&A, it has recovered impressively, auguring well for 2021.
The GDP, the aggregate value of the goods and services produced, has been the go-to statistic for comparing nations’ economic prosperity. But is it the best measure? Increasingly, its value as a comprehensive gauge is being questioned, and the hunt is on for more holistic metrics that better account for such issues as standard of living.
The Greek island of Crete is as saturated in ancient history as breathtaking natural beauty. Surrounded by ocean waters and liberally endowed with beaches and mountains, contrast defines this magical place. We take you on a tour of the most rewarding spots to add to your itinerary, with culture, relaxation and luxury consistent themes.
New technologies have infiltrated every corner of the world during the digital age, but four stand out as frontrunners. The DARQ forces of distributed ledger technology, artificial intelligence, extended reality and quantum computing, working independently and together, are ready to guide businesses and society into a bold new frontier.
If you feel as if your every move is being tracked, you may be right. Investment firms and other businesses are paying a premium for alternative data, including geolocation data, hoping it will give them a competitive edge in their quest to maximise investment returns by lending them greater insight into consumer patterns and preferences.
Banks are suffering from a problem: cash. Not long ago, many struggled to maintain liquidity, then COVID-19 arrived. Consumers and businesses have flooded them with deposits, as governments have doled out aid, uncertainty has made safe havens attractive, and continual lockdowns have restricted activity. But this is likely to change soon.
By necessity, COVID has upped the pace of technological change in the financial services industry. However, there is a longer-term goal to revolutionise the way individuals and businesses manage money day-to-day. As digitisation booms, every player in this sector is determined to innovate.