Blockchain
Companies Shift Emerging Tech Investments Amid COVID-19: KPMG Research
In the immediate wake of COVID-19, Global 2000 companies moved to slash funding for emerging technologies, such as automation, artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and 5G, according to new KPMG International research. However, many executives are optimistic emerging technology spending will likely increase in the next 12 months, as enterprises recognize COVID-19 creates a burning platform to accelerate digital transformation and stimulate long-term growth.
The new report, a collaboration between KPMG International and HFS Research, Enterprise Reboot, surveyed 900 technology executives* to explore the current and future state of emerging technologies and demonstrates a dramatic shift in how businesses are approaching emerging technology now versus just a few months ago before the onset of COVID-19.
“This crisis isn’t affecting all industries equally, but for many of the industries facing crisis, managing the transition to a digital business model is imperative. However, doing so is made more complicated in a time where investments are critical, but cash must be preserved,” said Cliff Justice, Global lead for Intelligent Automation and U.S. lead for Digital Capabilities, KPMG.
Specifically, 59 percent of executives surveyed say that COVID-19 has created an impetus to accelerate their digital transformation initiatives, yet approximately four in 10 say they will halt investment in emerging technology altogether as a result of COVID-19. Executives have shifted their focus to must-have technologies, and 56 percent of those surveyed say cloud migration has become an absolute necessity due to COVID-19.
However, investments in a number of emerging technologies will likely increase over the next year, such as 5G (44 percent of respondents expect spending to increase compared to 26 percent who expect spending to decrease); process automation (43 percent expect an increase compared to 25 percent who expect a decrease); AI (39 percent versus 31 percent); hybrid cloud and/or multi-cloud (38 percent versus 28 percent); blockchain (34 percent versus 30 percent); edge computing (34 percent versus 33 percent) – with the exception of smart analytics (32 percent versus 35 percent).
“Emerging technologies and new ways of working can play a significant role in the transformation to a more digital economy. These technologies are helping companies maintain customer and stakeholder trust, keep remote workforces connected, ensure their business is resilient and prepared for disruptions, and build a strong foundation for future product and service innovation,” Justice said.
The case for emerging tech
Fifty-seven percent of respondents say COVID-19 has significantly changed their organization’s strategic priorities. The immediate focus is now on survival, which has become the number one objective for most emerging technology investments. The first phase of KPMG research showed that many organizations were deterred from significant emerging technology investment because of obstacles in the organizational culture to enterprise-wide adoption, and a fear that projects will fail. Since the onset of COVID-19, respondents in the second phase of research are more focused on making a strong business case for existing technology investments.
Other key findings include:
- Only 13 percent expected to “significantly increase” investments in emerging technologies amid COVID-19.
- Organizations making the highest investments see greater returns than those making the smallest; in fact, those in the highest quartile of investments were significantly more likely to say they have already realized tangible value.
- Nearly 65 percent of respondents believe that the combined use of emerging technologies is much more beneficial than using any of the technologies in isolation. “AI-powered” and “cloud-enabled” are emerging as the foundation and are featured in more than one-third of all technology solutions.
“Now more than ever, companies need to make smart investments in emerging technologies if they are to prevail in the medium to long term. Companies who don’t, risk threatening their own survival,” Justice said.
For more information about US data visit: https://info.kpmg.us/news-perspectives/technology-innovation/companies-shift-tech-investments-amid-covid-19.html
*Survey methodology
In March-June 2020, KPMG International and HFS Research conducted two global, cross-industry quantitative surveys. Comprised of 900 total technology executives, the surveys sought to uncover investment and adoption of emerging technology. All respondents held executive-level positions at Global 2000 enterprises with $1B+ annual revenue, operating across nine business sectors and nine countries, including the U.S., Germany, U.K, Netherlands, Japan, Australia, India, France, and Canada. Survey data was supplemented by qualitative interviews with enterprise leaders who oversee the investment and adoption of these emerging technologies in their organization.
Blockchain
Pantera Capital Plans to Raise $1 Billion for New Fund Offering Exposure to Crypto Assets
Pantera Capital is reportedly planning to raise $1 billion for a new fund that offers exposure to various crypto assets, as reported by Blockchain.News. This ambitious fundraising initiative underscores Pantera’s continued confidence in the potential of the cryptocurrency market and its commitment to providing investors with diversified investment opportunities in the digital asset space.
The new fund from Pantera Capital aims to capitalize on the growing demand for exposure to cryptocurrencies and blockchain-based assets among institutional and retail investors. By offering a comprehensive portfolio of crypto assets, the fund seeks to provide investors with access to a wide range of investment opportunities, spanning cryptocurrencies, tokens, and other digital assets.
Pantera’s decision to raise $1 billion for the new fund reflects its optimistic outlook on the long-term growth prospects of the cryptocurrency market. With increasing mainstream adoption and institutional interest in cryptocurrencies, Pantera sees significant potential for value creation and capital appreciation in the digital asset space.
As one of the leading blockchain-focused investment firms, Pantera Capital is well-positioned to attract capital from investors seeking exposure to the cryptocurrency market. The firm’s track record of successful investments and its experienced team of investment professionals are likely to bolster investor confidence and support for the new fund.
Pantera Capital’s plans to raise $1 billion for its new fund underscore its commitment to driving innovation and growth in the cryptocurrency market. As the fund attracts capital and deploys it into promising investment opportunities, it is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of the digital asset ecosystem.
Source: blockchain.news
The post Pantera Capital Plans to Raise $1 Billion for New Fund Offering Exposure to Crypto Assets appeared first on HIPTHER Alerts.
Blockchain
Existing Blockchains Can’t Adopt Post-Quantum Cryptography Without Significant User Impact, Says Johann Polecsak
Johann Polecsak argues that existing blockchains face significant challenges in adopting post-quantum cryptography without causing substantial disruption to users. This assessment highlights the complex and multifaceted nature of transitioning to new cryptographic standards in blockchain networks.
Post-quantum cryptography refers to cryptographic algorithms that are resistant to attacks from quantum computers, which have the potential to break traditional cryptographic schemes. While post-quantum cryptography offers enhanced security, implementing it in existing blockchain networks poses technical, operational, and usability challenges.
Polecsak suggests that transitioning to post-quantum cryptography could require significant changes to blockchain protocols, consensus mechanisms, and user interfaces. These changes may disrupt existing workflows, require modifications to software and hardware infrastructure, and necessitate coordination among network participants.
Furthermore, Polecsak emphasizes the importance of ensuring backward compatibility and interoperability during the transition to post-quantum cryptography. This is crucial to prevent fragmentation of the blockchain ecosystem and maintain continuity for users and applications.
Polecsak’s assessment underscores the complexities and trade-offs involved in adopting post-quantum cryptography in existing blockchain networks. While the transition promises improved security against quantum threats, it requires careful planning, coordination, and investment to minimize disruption and ensure a smooth transition for users and stakeholders. As the field of post-quantum cryptography continues to evolve, blockchain projects will need to carefully evaluate their options and strategies for implementing these new cryptographic standards.
Source: news.bitcoin.com
The post Existing Blockchains Can’t Adopt Post-Quantum Cryptography Without Significant User Impact, Says Johann Polecsak appeared first on HIPTHER Alerts.
Blockchain
Tech Trends Shaping Retail: From AI to Blockchain
Various technology trends are discussed that are shaping the retail industry, from artificial intelligence (AI) to blockchain. These trends are driving significant changes in how retailers operate and engage with customers, offering new opportunities for innovation and growth.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is highlighted as a key technology trend that is revolutionizing various aspects of the retail industry. AI-powered solutions enable retailers to analyze vast amounts of data, personalize customer experiences, optimize supply chain operations, and enhance decision-making processes. From chatbots and virtual assistants to predictive analytics and recommendation engines, AI is enabling retailers to deliver more personalized and efficient services to their customers.
Blockchain technology is another trend shaping the retail industry, offering benefits such as enhanced transparency, security, and traceability in supply chains and transactions. By leveraging blockchain, retailers can improve inventory management, streamline payments, prevent counterfeit products, and enhance trust and accountability throughout the supply chain. Additionally, blockchain enables retailers to create decentralized marketplaces and loyalty programs, providing new opportunities for customer engagement and loyalty.
Other technology trends discussed in the article include augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), which are transforming the way consumers shop and interact with products online and in-store. By enabling immersive shopping experiences, AR and VR technologies allow retailers to showcase products more effectively, reduce returns, and increase customer engagement and satisfaction.
Technology trends such as AI, blockchain, AR, and VR are reshaping the retail landscape, driving innovation, and enabling retailers to meet the evolving needs and expectations of consumers in an increasingly digital world. As retailers continue to embrace these technologies, they are poised to unlock new opportunities for growth and differentiation in the competitive retail market.
Source: 365retail.co.uk
The post Tech Trends Shaping Retail: From AI to Blockchain appeared first on HIPTHER Alerts.
-
Blockchain Press Releases3 days ago
DeFi Lens builds advanced Generative AI for Technical Analysis
-
Blockchain3 days ago
Venezuela’s Oil Giant Turns to Crypto as US Sanctions Bite Again
-
Blockchain3 days ago
Halving weakness sees $206 million exit crypto funds, Bitcoin miners pivot to AI
-
Blockchain4 days ago
PairedWorld Earns Blockchain Award Nomination, Secures $1.5 Million in Private Token Sales, and Welcomes BlackRock Venture Partner to Advisory Board
-
Blockchain2 days ago
Global Payment Gateway Industry Report 2024: Seamless Integration with In-Game Virtual Currency Systems Enables Payment Gateways to Contribute to the Monetization Strategies of Game Developers
-
Blockchain3 days ago
PairedWorld Earns Nomination for Best Blockchain Project for Social Impact, Secures $1.5 Million in Private Token Sales, and Welcomes Paul Taylor Who Is a Venture Partner at BlackRock to its Advisory Board
-
Blockchain1 day ago
BounceBit (BB) Megadrop Now Open: Participate by Subscribing to BNB Locked Products or Completing Web3 Quests
-
Blockchain4 days ago
DeFi Technologies to Present at the Blockchain & Digital Asset Virtual Investor Conference April 25th