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By: Zenia Pearl V. Nicolas New Shifts in Retail Media In mid-September 2025, Amazon announced that it is expanding Multi-Channel Fulfillment (MCF)  to support Walmart Marketplace orders . Axios reported that Walmart sellers can now route their Walmart sales through Amazon’s warehouses, while Supply Chain Dive added that the expansion also includes Shopify and Shein  orders (Axios, 2025; Supply Chain Dive, 2025). Digital Commerce 360 confirmed that the integration was introduced during Amazon’s Accelerate seller conference and enables merchants to connect Walmart orders to Amazon’s fulfillment network through Seller Central or approved partners (Digital Commerce 360, 2025). Also in September 2025, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC)  opened an investigation into Amazon and Google’s advertising practices . According to Reuters, the probe focuses on whether advertisers were misled on pricing and auction terms, including whether Amazon adequately disclosed the use of reserve pricing  in its ad auctions (Reuters, 2025). At the same time, Omdia  released an outlook projecting that retail media will surpass USD 300 billion globally and capture roughly one-fifth of total ad revenue by 2030 . This forecast, published September 4, underscores the accelerating importance of retail media in the global advertising economy (Omdia, 2025; Business Wire, 2025). What the Amazon–Walmart Change Covers Coverage indicates that Amazon has opened MCF support for Walmart Marketplace orders. The service gives sellers integration options through Seller Central and approved partners, allowing inventory synchronization and order processing across platforms (Supply Chain Dive, 2025; Digital Commerce 360, 2025). Industry reporting frames it as an expansion of Amazon’s logistics ecosystem beyond its own retail site into direct competitor channels. While sources focus on the operational aspects, the move suggests a potential ripple effect for advertising. If sellers consolidate logistics through Amazon, the resulting data flows could eventually influence how ad spend is optimized across marketplaces. This remains an interpretation, not a confirmed development. Why the FTC Probe Matters Reuters’ September 12 coverage specifies that the FTC inquiry centers on whether Amazon and Google misled advertisers regarding ad pricing and auction structures, with particular attention on reserve pricing  in Amazon’s auctions. This regulatory scrutiny adds pressure on large platforms to demonstrate greater transparency in how their ad ecosystems operate (Reuters, 2025). For ASEAN brands, the probe is a reminder that transparency is becoming a global expectation. Regional platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and Tokopedia may find opportunities to differentiate themselves by offering clearer ad pricing models. The Scale of Retail Media In its September 4 analysis, Omdia projected that retail media will exceed USD 300 billion and represent about 20% of global advertising revenue by 2030  (Omdia, 2025; Business Wire, 2025). This forecast positions retail media as one of the fastest-growing segments of the digital ad economy. For ASEAN executives, this trajectory signals urgency. Early adoption, disciplined measurement, and careful cross-platform planning will be essential to avoid falling behind as retail media consolidates globally. Strategic Takeaways for ASEAN Leaders The September 2025 headlines deliver three confirmed facts: Amazon expanded MCF to Walmart orders, the FTC opened a probe into Amazon and Google’s ad practices, and Omdia projected that retail media will account for about one-fifth of global ad spend by 2030. Together, these events point to a broader reality. Retail platforms are converging commerce and logistics with advertising influence, regulators are pushing for transparency in ad practices, and forecasts show retail media becoming a dominant channel. For ASEAN leadership, retail media should be treated as a strategic investment that spans marketing, supply chain, and governance. Those who experiment early, demand transparency, and adapt budgets accordingly will be best positioned to compete in a retail media landscape reshaped by global giants. As retail media moves toward becoming a USD 300B global force, ASEAN leaders face a clear mandate: integrate retail media into long-term strategy, demand transparency, and prepare for cross-platform competition. Continue the conversation and explore these shifts with peers and experts— register for RESA Vietnam 2025 visit rockbird media References Axios. (2025, September 18). Amazon invites Walmart product sellers to use its warehouses for orders.  https://www.axios.com/2025/09/18/amazon-walmart-order-shopify-shein  Business Wire. (2025, September 4). Omdia: Retail media set to capture one-fifth of global ad revenue by 2030.  https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250904818602/en/Omdia-Retail-Media-Set-to-Capture-One-Fifth-of-Global-Ad-Revenue-by-2030  Digital Commerce 360. (2025, September 19). Amazon offering fulfillment options for Shein, Shopify and Walmart orders.  https://www.digitalcommerce360.com/2025/09/19/amazon-fulfillment-for-walmart-shein-shopify/  Omdia. (2025, September 4). Retail media set to capture one-fifth of global ad revenue by 2030.  https://omdia.tech.informa.com/pr/2025/sep/retail-media-set-to-capture-one-fifth-of-global-ad-revenue-by-2030  Reuters. (2025, September 12). U.S. FTC probes Google, Amazon over search advertising practices—source says.  https://www.reuters.com/business/retail-consumer/us-ftc-probes-google-amazon-over-search-advertising-practices-source-says-2025-09-12/  Supply Chain Dive. (2025, September 18). Amazon adds Walmart, Shopify, Shein to Multi-Channel Fulfillment.  https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/amazon-walmart-shopify-shein-multi-channel-fulfillment/760392/

By Zenia Pearl V. Nicolas Samsung and Hyundai reinforce their domestic investment commitments in South Korea’s evolving industrial landscape. Image Courtesy: Samsung HQ image: Reuters / Kim Hong-Ji. Samsung and Hyundai Double Down on Home Turf: A Strategic Investment Surge in South Korea South Korea’s largest conglomerates — Samsung Electronics  and Hyundai Motor Group  — have announced major domestic-investment plans, reinforcing their commitment to national industries at a pivotal moment. Their announcements come as South Korea’s evolving trade alignment with the United States raises concerns that too much capital may shift overseas, prompting calls for stronger domestic reinvestment. According to AP News , these companies are responding with some of the largest local commitments in recent years. Samsung’s Investment in Chips, AI, and Supply-Chain Strength Samsung’s planned ₩450 trillion investment will deepen South Korea’s semiconductor and AI-driven manufacturing ecosystem. Image Courtesy: Samsung / Reuters press photo (Reuters / Kim Hong-Ji). Samsung unveiled a ₩450 trillion  (approximately US$310 billion ) five-year investment plan — one of the largest ever announced by a Korean conglomerate. As reported by South China Morning Post  and AP News, the investment will focus on: scaling advanced semiconductor production expanding AI and data-center capabilities strengthening domestic supply-chain resilience The move is part of Samsung’s long-term strategy to secure Korea’s leadership in the global semiconductor and AI ecosystem. Hyundai’s Push Into EVs, Robotics, and Future Mobility A technician inspects a semiconductor wafer in a clean-room environment at a Samsung facility in South Korea. Image Courtesy: Hyundai Motor Group Pressroom Photo. Hyundai Motor Group followed with its own major announcement: ₩125.2 trillion  (about US$86 billion ) in domestic investments from 2026 to 2030 , confirmed by Reuters  and the company’s official Hyundai Newsroom . The funds will support: expanded electric-vehicle production AI-based and smart manufacturing robotics development software-defined vehicle (SDV) technologies Hyundai frames this as a strategic effort to keep Korea competitive as global mobility rapidly evolves. A Strategic Response to Geopolitics The timing is significant. South Korea’s recent trade adjustments with the U.S. eased certain tariff uncertainties but sparked national debate over the risk of capital moving abroad. Reuters and SCMP note that these large-scale domestic investments are widely interpreted as a calculated move by Samsung and Hyundai to stabilize Korea’s industrial ecosystem while navigating an increasingly complex global economic environment. Collectively, these commitments reinforce South Korea’s ambition to remain a world leader in semiconductors, electric vehicles, robotics, and advanced manufacturing, not just as a production hub, but as a center of global innovation. References  Associated Press. (2025, November 16). Samsung and other South Korean firms pledge larger domestic investments after U.S. tariff deal.   https://apnews.com/article/bc743b84babd293a207e42337445e2c5 Reuters. (2025, November 16). Hyundai Motor announces $86 bln investment in South Korea after US trade deal. https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/hyundai-motor-group-invest-86-bln-south-korea-next-5-years-2025-11-16/ Hyundai Motor Group. (2025). Hyundai announces ₩125.2 trillion domestic investment plan.   https://www.hyundai.com/worldwide/en/newsroom/detail/0000001062 South China Morning Post. (2025, November 16). Samsung, Hyundai announce US$310 billion domestic investment plans. https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3332982/samsung-hyundai-announce-us310-billion-domestic-investment-plans

In today’s fast-paced market, retail businesses must evolve or risk falling behind. The digital age demands more than just an online presence. It calls for a comprehensive overhaul of how retailers operate, engage customers, and leverage technology. I’ve seen firsthand how embracing modern retail technology transformation ideas can unlock new opportunities and drive sustainable growth. Let’s dive into the strategies that are reshaping retail and how you can apply them effectively. Embracing Retail Technology Transformation Ideas for Competitive Advantage Retail technology transformation ideas are no longer optional; they are essential. From AI-powered inventory management to immersive customer experiences, technology is the backbone of modern retail success. Here’s what I recommend focusing on: Omnichannel Integration : Customers expect seamless experiences whether they shop online, in-store, or via mobile apps. Integrating these channels ensures consistent service and data flow. Data-Driven Decision Making : Use analytics to understand buying patterns, optimize stock levels, and personalize marketing efforts. Automation and AI : Automate routine tasks like restocking and customer service with chatbots to free up human resources for higher-value activities. Mobile-First Solutions : With mobile shopping on the rise, ensure your platforms are optimized for smartphones and tablets. For example, a retailer implementing AI-driven demand forecasting reduced stockouts by 30%, improving customer satisfaction and sales. These ideas are not just trends; they are proven methods to stay ahead. Digital price tags in a retail store Key Technologies Driving Retail Transformation Understanding the technologies behind retail transformation helps in making informed decisions. Here are some game-changers: 1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning AI analyzes vast amounts of data to predict trends, personalize offers, and optimize supply chains. Machine learning models improve over time, making predictions more accurate and actionable. 2. Internet of Things (IoT) IoT devices track inventory in real-time, monitor equipment health, and enhance in-store experiences. Smart shelves and connected sensors reduce losses and improve efficiency. 3. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) AR and VR create immersive shopping experiences. Customers can virtually try products or visualize how items fit in their homes, increasing engagement and reducing returns. 4. Blockchain for Transparency Blockchain technology ensures product authenticity and traceability, which is crucial for luxury goods and food safety. 5. Cloud Computing Cloud platforms offer scalable infrastructure for data storage, analytics, and application deployment, enabling retailers to innovate rapidly without heavy upfront investments. By combining these technologies, retailers can build a robust ecosystem that supports growth and agility. IoT sensors monitoring retail inventory Implementing Digital Transformation Strategies in Retail Adopting digital transformation strategies requires a clear roadmap and commitment. Here’s a step-by-step approach I recommend: Assess Current Capabilities Conduct a thorough audit of existing technology, processes, and skills. Identify gaps and opportunities. Define Clear Objectives Set measurable goals such as improving customer retention, reducing costs, or increasing sales through digital channels. Engage Stakeholders Involve teams across departments to ensure buy-in and gather diverse insights. Choose the Right Technologies Select tools that align with your goals and integrate well with existing systems. Pilot and Iterate Start with small-scale pilots to test solutions, gather feedback, and refine before full deployment. Train and Support Staff Equip your workforce with the skills needed to leverage new technologies effectively. Measure and Optimize Use KPIs to track progress and continuously improve your digital initiatives. This structured approach minimizes risks and maximizes the impact of your transformation efforts. Enhancing Customer Experience Through Technology Customer experience is the heart of retail success. Technology offers powerful ways to delight customers and build loyalty: Personalized Recommendations : AI analyzes purchase history and browsing behavior to suggest relevant products. Contactless Payments : Speed up checkout and improve safety with mobile wallets and NFC technology. Smart Loyalty Programs : Use data to tailor rewards and promotions that resonate with individual customers. Virtual Assistants : Chatbots and voice assistants provide instant support and product information 24/7. In-Store Digital Displays : Interactive screens engage shoppers and provide real-time promotions. For instance, a retailer using AR mirrors allowed customers to try on clothes virtually, increasing conversion rates by 20%. These innovations create memorable experiences that keep customers coming back. Preparing for the Future of Retail Technology The retail landscape will continue to evolve rapidly. Staying ahead means embracing continuous innovation and flexibility. Here are some future-focused ideas: Sustainability Tech : Use technology to track and reduce environmental impact, appealing to eco-conscious consumers. 5G Connectivity : Faster networks will enable richer mobile experiences and real-time data processing. Advanced Robotics : Robots will assist with inventory management, delivery, and even customer service. Hyper-Personalization : AI will deliver even more precise and dynamic customer interactions. Collaborative Ecosystems : Retailers will partner with tech providers, startups, and other businesses to co-create value. By investing in these areas, retailers can build resilience and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Retail technology transformation ideas are not just about adopting new tools; they are about rethinking how business is done. With the right strategies, retailers can unlock growth, improve efficiency, and create exceptional customer experiences. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Let’s embrace the future of retail with confidence and innovation.

By Zenia Pearl V. Nicolas Chips Ahoy’s limited-edition Stranger Things  cookie, released alongside the show’s final season. Chips Ahoy is stepping into a new cultural lane with a limited-edition Stranger Things  cookie, signaling how legacy snack brands are evolving to stay relevant in a fandom-driven, Gen Z-shaped market. The campaign introduces a dark-themed chocolate cookie with a strawberry center designed to resemble the show’s eerie Upside Down universe, as first reported by Business Insider  ( Business Insider ). Beyond the flavour twist which Allrecipes  notes is the brand’s first cookie to feature a fruit-filled centre ( Allrecipes )—the collaboration leans heavily into experiential branding. The packaging glows in the dark, the theme mirrors 1980s retro nostalgia, and the product activates an augmented-reality game through a QR code. Marketing Brew  describes this as “gamifying the Upside Down” through digital layers aimed directly at Gen Z engagement ( Marketing Brew ). The timing is equally strategic, coinciding with the final season of Stranger Things . As Delish  notes, the flavor rollout aligns with a global surge in nostalgia-led content launches ( Delish ). This collaboration reflects a deeper shift that snack brands are no longer competing only on taste, but on cultural relevance. Chips Ahoy is blending entertainment partnerships, bold flavour experimentation, and digital immersion, an approach increasingly shaping consumer expectations across Southeast Asia, including the Philippines. It’s still too early to know how widely the cookie will roll out, but it reflects a broader shift in how brands are blending product ideas with cultural moments and light digital features. References Business Insider. (2025). Inside Chips Ahoy's plan to win over Gen Z — with help from Netflix's “Stranger Things” .   https://www.businessinsider.com/chips-ahoy-strategy-gen-z-stranger-things-new-flavor-pairings-2025-11 Allrecipes. (2025). Chips Ahoy is releasing a first-of-its-kind cookie and the flavor is stranger than you think .   https://www.allrecipes.com/chips-ahoy-stranger-things-cookie-11774959 Marketing Brew. (2025). How Chips Ahoy gamified the Upside Down .   https://www.marketingbrew.com/stories/2025/08/28/how-chips-ahoy-gamified-the-upside-down Delish. (2025). Taste test: Chips Ahoy’s Stranger Things collab cookie .   https://www.delish.com/food-news/a65492895/chips-ahoy-stranger-things-taste-test

By Zenia Pearl V. Nicolas A group of professionals walking through a modern business district, representing the momentum behind HR Acuity’s Deloitte Technology Fast 500™ recognition. HR Acuity ’s inclusion in the 2025 Deloitte Technology Fast 500™  places an employee-relations platform among North America’s fastest-growing tech companies, an uncommon spotlight for a category long treated as behind-the-scenes. The company confirmed the ranking in its November 19 announcement, which notes that the list measures three-year revenue growth from 2021 to 2024 (HR Acuity, 2025). Deloitte reported that this year’s winners posted growth rates ranging from 122% to 29,738%, underscoring the increasingly competitive nature of enterprise software scaling in North America (Deloitte, 2025). What makes HR Acuity’s placement important is the context. For years, employee relations lived in spreadsheets, inbox threads, and informal processes. Now, organizations navigating compliance pressure, workplace investigations, and higher expectations for transparency are adopting ER platforms with the same seriousness they apply to finance, cybersecurity, and audit tools. HR Acuity positions its system as part of the risk-management backbone for regulated industries, a sign that ER data is becoming essential, not optional (HR Acuity, 2025). Still, the broader interpretation that ER tech has entered a defining moment—should be viewed as an informed trend, not a confirmed market shift. One company’s growth does not define a full sector trajectory. But it does suggest something meaningful: the companies investing in structured ER processes today are often the ones preparing for a more accountable, analytics-driven workplace tomorrow. In a world where trust is now measurable, the organizations that treat employee relations as strategy, not damage control will be the ones people choose to stay with. References  Deloitte. (2025, November 19). Deloitte unveils 2025 North America Technology Fast 500™ rankings.   https://www.deloitte.com/us/en/about/press-room/deloitte-unveils-2025-north-america-technology-fast-500 HR Acuity. (2025, November 19). HR Acuity named to the 2025 Deloitte Technology Fast 500™.   https://www.hracuity.com/press-releases/hr-acuity-named-to-the-2025-deloitte-technology-fast-500

By:   Zenia Pearl V. Nicolas In a milestone moment for conversational commerce, OpenAI has officially rolled out a new feature inside ChatGPT that allows users to buy products directly from the chat. The feature, called Instant Checkout is powered by a collaboration with Stripe , one of the world’s leading payment platforms and built on a new open standard known as the Agentic Commerce Protocol (ACP) , a framework that may change how people shop online (OpenAI, 2025; Reuters, 2025). From Browsing to Buying — Without Leaving the Chat  For years, users relied on AI tools like ChatGPT to assist with product discovery and decision-making. But transactions still required jumping between tabs and websites. That changes now. With Instant Checkout, users can finalize their purchases seamlessly inside ChatGPT. When a supported product appears in conversation, ChatGPT displays a “Buy” button that enables users to review without leaving the chat interface (OpenAI, 2025). Stripe handles the transaction in the background, while merchants starting with U.S. based Etsy sellers, manage shipping, returns and customer service (Axios, 2025). The move blurs the line between AI interaction and real-world commerce, signaling the start of a shift from “search, click and buy” toward “ask, decide and buy”, a frictionless conversational economy.  Inside the Agentic Commerce Protocol The backbone of this system is the Agentic Commerce Protocol (ACP), co-developed by OpenAI and Stripe and released under an open-source Apache 2.0 license (Stripe, 2025). The protocol defines how AI agents, merchants and payment providers communicate safely and transparently during transactions. Through features such as Shared Payment Tokens , ACP enables secure checkout flows without exposing user payment credentials. This “tokenized” approach adds a layer of privacy and reduces the risk of data leaks or fraud (Stripe, 2025). Critically, merchants remain the “merchant of record.” They retain control over pricing, customer relationships, returns and fulfillment. ChatGPT acts merely as the interface, ensuring that the AI agent serves as a trusted facilitator rather than a commercial gatekeeper (OpenAI, 2025). Early Rollout and Expansion Plans At launch, Instant Checkout supports only single-item purchases from Etsy sellers in the United States, but OpenAI has confirmed plans to expand to Shopify merchants and additional regions. Reuters reported that OpenAI’s upcoming integrations may include major brands such as Glossier, SKIMS and Vuori; companies already leveraging Shopify’s ecosystem (Reuters, 2025). Merchants using Stripe can enable agentic payments with minimal technical effort. For those using other providers, ACP includes specifications for delegated payments and shared token APIs, allowing broad interoperability (Stripe, 2025). According to Katie Dill , Head of Design at Stripe, the partnership marks the beginning of a “powerful and helpful agentic economy,” where LLM-powered assistants can conduct secure, efficient transactions at scale (Dill, 2025). What This Means for Users and Businesses For users, Instant Checkout means shopping becomes faster and safer. Transactions happen in a single interface, with all consent clearly verified. There’s no need to enter credit card data repeatedly or navigate to multiple pages.  For businesses, this integration opens a new distribution channel, one embedded directly in  AI platforms where discovery and decision-making already happen. As Dill described in her LinkedIn announcement, ACP establishes a “secure, fast, and easy” way for merchants to connect their stores to the next wave of digital consumers (Dill, 2025). For the industry, it may signal the dawn of a new standard. By introducing an open commerce protocol, OpenAI and Stripe are essentially building the infrastructure for the “agentic economy”—a world where AI assistants transact autonomously but safely on behalf of humans (TechRadar, 2025). A Cautious Path Forward Still, experts urge caution. While the potential of ACP is enormous, questions remain about fraud prevention, liability, and user trust. The ability for AI systems to initiate purchases raises regulatory considerations that could reshape consumer protection standards (AP News, 2025). Merchant adoption will also take time. As of October 2025, only Etsy sellers are active, and global scalability will depend on how well the protocol handles multiple currencies, regions, and compliance frameworks (Axios, 2025). There are also competitive implications. If consumers begin buying directly inside AI platforms, search engines, e-commerce sites, and ad models may all need to evolve. As TechCrunch observed, “AI-native commerce could become the next great platform shift, where discovery and transaction happen in one continuous thread” (TechCrunch, 2025). The Road Ahead Despite the early-stage rollout, the OpenAI–Stripe partnership is already being viewed as a blueprint for the future of online shopping. If ACP gains traction, it could do for AI commerce what HTTPS did for web security, create a universal, trusted protocol for digital transactions (Stripe, 2025). As conversational AI continues to mature, shopping may no longer begin with a browser search but with a simple prompt inside ChatGPT. And in that future, every purchase might just start with a conversation. References AP News. (2025, September 29). OpenAI's ChatGPT now lets users buy from Etsy, Shopify in push for chatbot shopping.   https://apnews.com/article/3434f1b86b90b59de0baa43a8f28f380   Axios. (2025, September 29). OpenAI enables shopping directly from ChatGPT.   https://www.axios.com/2025/09/29/openai-shopping-chatgpt   Dill, K. (2025, September 29). Big day! Today we're announcing that Stripe partnered with OpenAI...  LinkedIn.   https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7378480243097006080   OpenAI. (2025, September 29). Buy it in ChatGPT.   https://openai.com/index/buy-it-in-chatgpt   Reuters. (2025, September 29). OpenAI partners with Etsy, Shopify on ChatGPT checkout.   https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/openai-partners-with-etsy-shopify-chatgpt-checkout-2025-09-29   Stripe. (2025, September 29). Developing an open standard for agentic commerce.   https://stripe.com/blog/developing-an-open-standard-for-agentic-commerce   TechCrunch. (2025, September 29). OpenAI takes on Google and Amazon with new agentic shopping system.   https://techcrunch.com/2025/09/29/openai-takes-on-google-amazon-with-new-agentic-shopping-system/   TechRadar. (2025, September 30). You can now buy things through ChatGPT with a single Click—if you’re one of the lucky ones.   https://www.techradar.com/pro/you-can-now-buy-things-through-chatgpt-with-a-single-click-if-youre-one-of-the-lucky-ones

By Zenia Pearl V. Nicolas Ramp has raised a $300 million  financing round led by Lightspeed Venture Partners, pushing the company’s valuation to $32 billion  — one of the biggest private fintech valuations of 2025. ( PR Newswire ) But the real story isn’t just the round. Ramp is officially evolving from a corporate-card-led product into a full-scale finance-operations platform . The company now spans expense management, bill payments, procurement, travel booking, treasury tools, and automated financial workflows. This repositioning places Ramp directly in the emerging category of end-to-end finance infrastructure , not just spend management. Revenue and Scale That Investors Actually Care About The raise comes on the back of strong reported performance: $1+ billion in annualized revenue 50,000+ customers $100+ billion in annual purchase volume (Sources:  PR Newswire – Annualized Revenue , Tech in Asia ) These metrics suggest that Ramp is moving into durable enterprise economics  — the type of revenue mix investors seek in a high-interest-rate environment. Rather than blitzscaling, Ramp appears to be building structural, predictable financial infrastructure. Why HR, Finance, and Talent Leaders Should Pay Attention Ramp’s transition from a card product into a workflow company  has implications beyond finance teams. As it expands into integrations, compliance automation, vendor management, payments orchestration, and policy workflows, the company will need talent in: Automation engineering Treasury & cash operations Vendor integration & API systems Analytics and financial data modeling Enterprise systems implementation. This means HR teams will increasingly recruit cross-functional roles, professionals who understand both finance  and systems , not siloed specialists. The future finance stack will be owned jointly by finance, IT, and operations — and Ramp is positioning itself as the platform that connects all three. Enterprise Depth Over Shallow Scale TechCrunch describes Ramp’s approach as one that “replaces large portions of corporate workflows, not just isolated spend features.” ( TechCrunch ) This reflects a larger shift in fintech:  Investors now reward workflow depth, not user-count breadth. Instead of simply adding more customers, Ramp focuses on: Displacing internal approval workflows Reducing manual financial operations Automating repetitive tasks Integrating procurement, travel, and payments Becoming the operating system for finance teams This depth positions Ramp as a potential infrastructure backbone  for mid-market and enterprise finance operations. Crowdfund Insider also confirms this broader platform narrative in its coverage of the financing. ( Crowdfund Insider ) REFERENCES PR Newswire. (2025, November 17). Ramp reaches $32 billion valuation, doubling revenue and customers in past year.   https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ramp-reaches-32-billion-valuation-doubling-revenue-and-customers-in-past-year-302616510.html PR Newswire. (2025, October). Ramp reaches $1 billion in annualized revenue.   https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ramp-reaches-1-billion-in-annualized-revenue-302550637.html Tech in Asia. (2025, November 17). Lightspeed leads $300M round as Ramp hits $32B valuation.   https://www.techinasia.com/news/lightspeed-leads-300m-round-as-ramp-hits-32b-valuation TechCrunch. (2025, November 17). Ramp hits $32B valuation, just three months after hitting $22.5B.   https://techcrunch.com/2025/11/17/ramp-hits-32b-valuation-just-three-months-after-hitting-22-5b/ Crowdfund Insider. (2025, November 19). Fintech Ramp reports $300M primary financing round at $32B valuation.   https://www.crowdfundinsider.com/2025/11/255718-fintech-ramp-reports-300m-primary-financing-round-at-32b-valuation/

By Zenia Pearl V. Nicolas Revolut partners with Polygon to enable zero-fee remittances and crypto card payments. Image courtesy: Revolut / Polygon Revolut has opened a new chapter in digital finance by integrating with Polygon, enabling nearly fee-free remittances and crypto-powered card transactions across its 65 million-user footprint ( CoinDesk ) . The move lets users send and receive USDC, USDT and POL via Polygon’s low-cost network and signals how fintech platforms are quietly evolving beyond traditional banking rails ( FinTech Weekly ). More than just crypto-bells and whistles What stands out is how this means real-world payments, not just speculative trading. Revolut reports that more than $690 million has already flowed through Polygon-powered transfers, illustrating how blockchain is becoming a practical tool and not only for early adopters ( Bitget ). From a payments app to a full-stack fintech platform, Revolut’s foundation lays the rails for expansion. Image courtesy: Revolut The integration offers features like zero-fee remittances, in-app crypto card spending and staking for POL, turning what used to be a niche crypto wallet experience into mainstream finance ( FinanceFeeds ). Implications for fintech and talent leaders For fintech strategists and HR teams alike, this shift matters. Operations now need to handle a hybrid stack: traditional payments, digital assets, staking infrastructure, and global remittance flows. Talent profiles will change; hiring may need to focus as much on blockchain-rail expertise as on mobile-app growth. This blending of fintech, payments Mastercard rails, and blockchain infrastructure shows that the industry is no longer “payments now, crypto later”—it’s all happening at once. ( CoinLaw ) References Allison, I. (2025, November 18). Revolut enlists Polygon for stablecoin remittances in UK and EEA. CoinDesk. https://www.coindesk.com/business/2025/11/18/revolut-enlists-polygon-for-stablecoin-remittances-in-uk-and-eea/   Mazza, R. (2025, November 18). Revolut expands blockchain capabilities with Polygon integration. FinTech Weekly. https://www.fintechweekly.com/magazine/articles/revolut-polygon-integration-zero-fee-remittances-staking-crypto-payments   Bitget-RWA. (2025, November 18). Revolut and Polygon connect conventional and digital finance with $690 million stablecoin initiative. Bitget. https://www.bitget.com/amp/news/detail/12560605070306   Fathi, A. (2025, November 18). Revolut integrates Polygon to offer zero-fee stablecoin transfers and remittances. FinanceFeeds.   https://financefeeds.com/revolut-integrates-polygon-to-offer-zero-fee-stablecoin-transfers-and-remittances/ Kinder, K. (2025, November 18). Mastercard and Revolut join forces with Polygon to simplify crypto payments. CoinLaw.   https://coinlaw.io/revolut-mastercard-polygon-crypto-payments/ Reid, L. (2025, November 18). Revolut integrates Polygon to offer zero-fee remittances and stable-coin payments . FinTech Weekly.   https://www.fintechweekly.com/magazine/articles/revolut-polygon-integration-zero-fee-remittances-staking-crypto-payments FinTech Weekly - Home Page

By Zenia Pearl V. Nicolas Axel Arigato and Alvin Armstrong unveiled their art-infused capsule in a global campaign. Image courtesy: Axel Arigato / Alvin Armstrong Swedish lifestyle brand Axel Arigato  has unveiled a vibrant capsule collection created in collaboration with Brooklyn-based artist Alvin Armstrong . The drop blends the brand’s clean minimalism with Armstrong’s expressive, color-driven visual language, resulting in pieces that feel equal parts wearable and collectible. ( Wallpaper ) The collection spans sneakers, ready-to-wear pieces, and accessories, each infused with hand-painted details, abstract forms and layered textures. With Armstrong’s fine-art background and Arigato’s design-forward identity, the aesthetic lands at the intersection of street culture, contemporary galleries, and global fashion retail. ( FashionNetwork ) Creative Intent Behind the Collaboration Axel Arigato’s Creative Director Jens Werner  described Armstrong’s influence as a catalyst for the collection’s emotional depth: “What struck me most about Alvin’s work is his instinctive use of colour, textural depth and his ability to express emotion through simplified forms. That shared sense of exploration and honesty is what gives this collection its energy.” — Jens Werner, Creative Director, Axel Arigato ( The Industry.fashion ) Werner’s statement echoes the collection’s broader intention: a push toward art-inspired fashion that feels personal, vibrant, and emotionally resonant. Armstrong’s signature painterly strokes bring a narrative dimension to Arigato’s structural silhouettes, enhancing the brand’s move toward culturally rooted design. A Cultural Moment for Brand + Artist For Armstrong, who has exhibited internationally, this marks his fashion debut —a rare crossover moment where fine art enters streetwear with a sense of authenticity rather than commercialization. ( Hypebeast ) The capsule dropped globally on November 13, 2025, and is already resonating as a culturally charged release. With major brands increasingly tapping artists for deeper storytelling, this partnership stands out as a genuine meeting point between two creative worlds. References Bains, I. (2025, November 13). Axel Arigato teams up with New York artist Alvin Armstrong on capsule collection . TheIndustry.fashion .   https://www.theindustry.fashion/axel-arigato-teams-up-with-new-york-artist-alvin-armstrong-on-capsule-collection/ Hypebeast. (2025, November 13). Alvin Armstrong and Axel Arigato launch a capsule collection .   https://hypebeast.com/2025/11/alvin-armstrong-and-axel-arigato-launch-a-capsule-collection FashionNetwork. (2025, November 13). Axel Arigato links with artist Alvin Armstrong on major collaboration .   https://vn.fashionnetwork.com/news/Axel-arigato-links-with-artist-alvin-armstrong-on-major-collab%2C1782670.html Wallpaper. (2025, November 13). Fashion meets art in Axel Arigato and Alvin Armstrong’s colourful collaboration .   https://www.wallpaper.com/art/fashion-meets-art-in-axel-arigato-and-alvin-armstrongs-colourful-collaboration Werner, J. (2025, November 13). Axel Arigato teams up with New York artist Alvin Armstrong on capsule collection . The Industry.fashion . https://www.theindustry.fashion/axel-arigato-teams-up-with-new-york-artist-alvin-armstrong-on-capsule-collection/   TheIndustry.fashion

By Zenia Pearl V. Nicolas China’s New Data Frontier:  As Beijing enforces new outbound data-transfer rules starting January 2026, global AI innovation faces its next border test. From certification routes to national safety standards, compliance is no longer optional — it’s the new battleground for AI power. While the world debates AI ethics, China has quietly rewritten the global rulebook for data. Starting January 1, 2026 , the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC)  will activate a formal certification route for outbound personal-data transfers, alongside existing security assessments and standard contracts. China’s New Data Frontier At the same time, the country’s first national safety standards for cross-border personal-information processing will take effect March 1, 2026. Together, these measures will redraw how global AI models are trained, how multinational clouds move information, and how innovation unfolds inside—or outside—China’s digital borders ( Morgan Lewis, 2025 ;  Reuters, 2025 ). 1. Certification Becomes the New Passport for Data Until now, companies transferring personal data out of China had three legal pathways: Security Assessment  (for large volumes or “important data”) Standard Contract (SCC)  for moderate, low-risk transfers Certification  — a third-party compliance seal for overseas handlers and intra-group data flows In October 2025, regulators finalized the Measures for the Certification of Outbound Personal Information Transfer , effective January 1, 2026 ( Morgan Lewis, 2025 ;  Reuters, 2025 ). Certification does not replace SCCs or assessments. Instead, it offers a scalable alternative, especially for foreign entities without a mainland legal presence or for multinational groups needing continuous cross-border exchanges. Applicability generally covers 100 k – 1 m non-sensitive records or under 10 k sensitive records annually — overlapping zones where certification may be more efficient than a full security review ( DLA Piper, 2025 ). 2. New National Standards Set the Bar Higher China’s first national safety standards for cross-border processing, published September 29 2025, will take effect March 1 2026 ( Reuters, 2025 ). They define how organizations must classify data, obtain consent, document risks, and monitor transfers, covering everything from storage localization to algorithmic safeguards. This codifies “compliance-by-design” for AI and analytics firms operating in China’s data-rich economy. According to the National Data Administration , China generated 41.06 zettabytes  of data in 2024 ( China Daily HK, 2025 ). Even incremental regulatory shifts therefore have massive global consequences for manufacturing analytics, AI training, and cloud services. 3. Flexibility Exists — But Only on Paper In 2024, the CAC introduced “facilitating rules” to show limited flexibility. These eased routine data flows in trade, logistics, and operations, extended assessment validity from two to three years, and piloted negative lists in free-trade zones ( Reuters, 2024 ). But, as  Arnold & Porter (2025)  notes, relief remains narrow: exemptions apply mainly to “low-risk” data. Firms processing customer analytics, HR records, or device telemetry still face full supervision under China’s cybersecurity and privacy regime. 4. Hong Kong’s AI Governance May Become the Model While mainland authorities tighten controls, Hong Kong is emerging as a regional compliance hub. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (PCPD) released its Checklist on Guidelines for the Use of Generative AI by Employees  in March 2025, followed by new AI Governance Practical Guidance  in October 2025 ( PCPD, 2025 ;  Mayer Brown, 2025 ). Built around accountability, transparency, and human oversight, these frameworks bridge China’s regulatory rigor with global interoperability standards. For companies in the Greater Bay Area, Hong Kong may soon serve as a “safe harbor” for compliant AI collaboration — balancing innovation with legal certainty. 5. Data Sovereignty Meets AI Ambition China’s 2026 framework is about more than compliance, it is a strategic realignment . By tightening outbound data control while expanding domestic AI infrastructure, Beijing is reinforcing a self-reliant digital economy . That means: More in-country AI training  to avoid export frictions Federated learning models  that share insights, not raw data Closer alignment  between cybersecurity, privacy, and industrial policy As one data-policy analyst told Reuters (2025) : “China isn’t closing its data borders — it’s calibrating them for advantage.” What Global Businesses Should Do Now As China’s 2026 data framework reshapes cross-border rules, global leaders must move fast — audit data flows, choose certification routes, localize clouds, and monitor Hong Kong’s evolving compliance blueprint. Audit Data Flows:  Map every dataset crossing borders — especially AI training and HR information. Choose Your Route Early:  Decide between SCCs, certification, or full assessment before January 2026 . Localize Clouds:  Use China-specific VPCs or trusted partners to reduce certification scope. Track Hong Kong’s PDPO updates:  Its AI ethics framework could soon become APAC’s compliance blueprint . References Arnold & Porter. (2025, October 16). Update on China data privacy enforcement: Recent cross-border data transfer cases.  Arnold & Porter LLP.   https://www.arnoldporter.com/en/perspectives/advisories/2025/10/china-data-privacy-enforcement-cross-border-data-transfer China Daily HK / National Data Administration. (2025, April 29). China generated 41.06 zettabytes of data in 2024.  China Daily Hong Kong.   https://www.chinadailyhk.com/hk/article/610662 DLA Piper. (2025, January 14). CHINA: Draft regulation on certification for cross-border data transfers published.  Privacy Matters.   https://privacymatters.dlapiper.com/2025/01/7523/ Mayer Brown. (2025, October 2). AI governance: Practical guidance from Hong Kong PCPD.  Mayer Brown LLP.   https://www.mayerbrown.com/en/insights/publications/2025/10/ai-governance-practical-guidance-from-hong-kong-privacy-commissioner-for-personal-data Morgan Lewis. (2025, October 22). China issues data export certification measures effective 2026.  Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP.   https://www.morganlewis.com/pubs/2025/10/chinas-data-outbound-rules-update-measures-for-the-certification Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data [PCPD]. (2025, March 31). Checklist on guidelines for the use of generative AI by employees.  PCPD Hong Kong. https://www.pcpd.org.hk/english/news_events/media_statements/press_20250331.html Reuters. (2024, March 22). China relaxes security review rules for some data exports.  Reuters.   https://www.reuters.com/technology/cybersecurity/chinas-cyberspace-regulator-issues-rules-facilitate-cross-border-data-flow-2024-03-22/ Reuters. (2025, September 29). China sets safety standards for cross-border processing of personal information (effective March 1, 2026).  Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/boards-policy-regulation/china-sets-safety-standards-cross-border-processing-personal-information-2025-09-29/ Reuters. (2025, October 17). China releases new rules on personal data exports (effective January 1, 2026).  Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/technology/china-releases-new-rules-personal-data-exports-2025-10-17/

Customer Lifetime Value (CLTV or CLV), is a metric that represents the overall income or profit generated by a customer throughout their association with the organization. It is a measure of the financial value assigned to each customer for their relationship with the company. CLTV considers all transactions and interactions a customer has with a firm, such as the initial purchase, repeat purchases, average order value, buy frequency, and the length of the customer's relationship with the company. It takes into account both the customer's revenue and the costs associated with obtaining, maintaining, and retaining the client. Customer Lifetime Value (CLTV) calculation is critical for businesses for various reasons. Here are some of the most important reasons to calculate CLTV:   Strategic Decision-Making CLTV assists businesses in making effective strategic decisions. Companies may successfully allocate resources, decide on suitable marketing budgets, and make decisions about customer acquisition and retention tactics by evaluating the long-term worth of customers. CLTV enables businesses to focus their efforts on high-value consumers by providing insights into which client segments or channels are most useful.    Retention of Customers  CLTV assists organizations in determining the cost-effectiveness of their client acquisition and retention efforts. Companies can measure the profitability of different client categories by comparing their CLTV against the cost of acquiring and serving them. This data allows firms to optimize their marketing and sales tactics, distribute money more effectively, and uncover chances to improve customer loyalty and happiness.   Financial Planning Businesses may view income and profitability from a long-term perspective due to CLTV. Businesses may generate more accurate financial projections, plan for future expansion, and set reasonable revenue goals by understanding the lifetime worth of their clients. The return on investment (ROI) for marketing campaigns and other customer-focused efforts is also evaluated with the use of CLTV.   Personalization and Customer Segmentation Customer value to the business is used to segment clients with the aid of CLTV. Companies can cater their marketing messages, offers, and customer experiences to each segment's particular needs and preferences by segmenting their consumer base based on their CLTV. Through this strategy, personalization is improved, customers are more engaged, and there is a greater chance of cross-selling or upselling chances.   Customer Satisfaction and Retention CLTV offers perceptions of the enduring contentment and steadfastness of clients. Businesses can identify possible churn concerns and take preventative action to keep key customers by tracking changes in CLTV over time. Companies can increase CLTV and nurture customer loyalty by concentrating on customer satisfaction and developing long-term relationships, which results in repeat business, good word-of-mouth, and brand advocacy. Businesses can determine high-value consumers, assess the total worth of their client base, and make data-driven decisions about their marketing, sales, and customer retention strategies by calculating CLTV. It assists companies in successfully allocating resources, prioritizing client segments, and establishing the right spending limit for customer acquisition and retention initiatives. For companies trying to increase profitability, strengthen client connections, and spur long-term growth, CLTV is a useful statistic. In conclusion, determining CLTV is crucial for organizations because it improves financial planning, enables strategic decision-making, aids in customer segmentation and customization, and promotes customer pleasure and loyalty. Businesses can streamline operations, boost profitability, and create long-term growth by comprehending the lifetime value of consumers. rockbird media

By Zenia Pearl V. Nicolas Baidu has released ERNIE-4.5-VL-28B-A3B-Thinking , a multimodal model designed to interpret visual, technical, and textual data within a unified framework. The model’s capabilities, including fine-grained image understanding, diagram reasoning, and tool-assisted interactions are detailed in Baidu’s official documentation and public model card (Baidu). Built on a Mixture-of-Experts (MoE)  architecture, the model contains 28 billion total parameters, while activating only about 3 billion during inference. This design reduces computational load and enables more efficient deployment, a point emphasized in both Baidu’s model documentation and industry coverage (VentureBeat). ERNIE-4.5 demonstrates advanced visual reasoning features such as automatic zooming for small-text extraction, structured outputs like bounding boxes and object coordinates, and the ability to integrate external tools such as image search, positioning it closer to an agentic multimodal system  than a standard vision-language model (Baidu). According to Baidu’s published benchmarks, the model achieved: 87.1  on ChartQA 82.5  on MathVista 77.3  on VLMs Are Blind Visual performance benchmarks comparing Baidu’s ERNIE against Gemini 2.5 Pro and GPT-5 High.   Image courtesy: Baidu Inc. These benchmark scores appear in Baidu’s official materials and were also reproduced in external reporting, though they remain vendor-published  and not yet independently verified. Analysts note that while the results suggest strong visual reasoning performance, enterprises should validate real-world capability on domain-specific datasets (Artificial Intelligence News). Baidu’s deployment notes indicate that the model typically requires high-memory hardware , with an 80GB GPU  cited as an example configuration in its documentation. ERNIE-4.5-VL-28B-A3B-Thinking is distributed under an Apache 2.0 open licence  and is publicly accessible through major model hubs, reinforcing Baidu’s emerging position as a competitive player in open multimodal AI (VentureBeat, AI Studio, Hugging Face). References Baidu. (2025). ERNIE-4.5-VL-28B-A3B-Thinking [Model card] . Baidu AI Studio.   https://aistudio.baidu.com/modelsdetail/39280/intro Baidu. (2025). ERNIE-4.5-VL-28B-A3B-Thinking [Model hub page] . Hugging Face.   https://huggingface.co/baidu/ERNIE-4.5-VL-28B-A3B-Thinking Daws, R. (2025, November 12). Baidu ERNIE multimodal AI beats GPT and Gemini in benchmarks . Artificial Intelligence News.   https://www.artificialintelligence-news.com/news/baidu-ernie-multimodal-ai-gpt-and-gemini-benchmarks/ Nuñez, M. (2025, November 12). Baidu just dropped an open-source multimodal AI that it claims beats GPT-5 and Gemini . VentureBeat.   https://venturebeat.com/ai/baidu-just-dropped-an-open-source-multimodal-ai-that-it-claims-beats-gpt-5/ Ort, C. (2025, November 12). Baidu ERNIE Benchmarks: Challenging GPT-4o and Gemini . i10x.   https://i10x.ai/news/baidu-ernie-benchmark-push Wheeler, K. (2025, March 17). Baidu’s ERNIE 4.5 & X1: Redefining AI with multimodal power . Technology Magazine. https://technologymagazine.com/articles/baidus-ernie-4-5-x1-redefining-ai-with-multimodal-power