Author: rgultig

Research reveals websites are still the primary channel for consumer engagement during the Golden Quarter, with a multi-channel approach essential for success. Introduction As the Golden Quarter approaches—a critical time for retailers during the lead-up to Christmas—brands are ramping up their marketing efforts to capture consumer attention. Despite the meteoric rise of social media and live commerce, new research from Visualsoft indicates that websites remain the primary channel for consumer engagement and discovery during this peak shopping period. While social media, newsletters, and traditional advertising still play important roles, the study underscores the continued dominance of brand websites in influencing…

Nepal’s hydropower boom is driving a surge in electric vehicle adoption, with the government aiming for 90% EV purchases by 2030. Learn how this is reshaping the country’s transportation. Introduction A decade ago, the idea of owning an electric vehicle in Nepal would have seemed far-fetched, especially given the country’s chronic power shortages. Fast forward to 2024, and Nepal is in the midst of an electric vehicle (EV) revolution, powered by cheap and abundant hydropower. The rise of electric vehicles, largely imported from China, is transforming Nepal’s transport landscape and offering a greener, more economical alternative to fossil-fuel-powered cars. This…

Tesla’s Cybertruck owners are finally getting access to Full Self-Driving software, but only early access participants are benefiting from the latest FSD 12.5.5 update. Introduction Nearly a year after its highly anticipated release, the Tesla Cybertruck is finally starting to gain access to Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software. After much delay, Tesla is rolling out the software update to a limited number of Cybertruck owners, marking a significant milestone for the futuristic vehicle. However, this FSD rollout is limited to early access participants, and most Cybertruck owners will still have to wait before they can experience the much-touted feature firsthand.…

AI systems like ChatGPT can provide useful information, but can they be trusted to justify their outputs? Learn why AI lacks real reasoning and how it impacts our understanding of truth. Introduction Every month, more than 500 million people rely on AI systems like ChatGPT and Gemini to answer questions on a vast range of topics, from cooking to algebra. While AI is increasingly trusted as an authority on these subjects, there is a critical flaw in this assumption: the content provided by large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT is not based on genuine reasoning. Despite their ability to generate…

The retail sector faces growing cyber threats, from ransomware to AI exploitation. Learn how retailers can protect themselves with NCC Group’s latest insights. Introduction The retail sector, with its omnichannel presence and widespread consumer engagement, is an attractive target for cybercriminals. As retailers adopt new technologies to enhance customer experiences and optimize operations, they also face increasing cyber threats that exploit these innovations. The NCC Group’s Operational Threat Intelligence team was tasked with delivering a comprehensive Threat Landscape Report for the retail sector. This report provides insights into the evolving threats that businesses in this space must navigate and offers…

CVS Health prepares for a meeting with activist investor Glenview Capital amid stock challenges, while Johnson & Johnson faces penalties over changes to its 340B program. Introduction Good morning, and welcome to the start of another working week! As the familiar routine of meetings, deadlines, and emails returns, we hope you’re feeling recharged and ready to tackle the tasks ahead. For today’s coffee of choice, we’re opting for a stimulating double shot of maple bourbon brew—perfect for those Monday morning neurons. As we settle into the rhythm of the week, here are a few key updates in the healthcare sector…

Payers have the opportunity to revolutionize healthcare by leveraging data, technology, and intelligent market dynamics to create a more affordable, efficient system. Introduction The U.S. healthcare system is on an unsustainable trajectory. With healthcare costs rising and fewer people securing coverage over the next decade, the burden on patients and payers is becoming increasingly heavy. Projections suggest that by the end of 2024, healthcare spending in the U.S. will exceed $5 trillion, representing 18% of the country’s GDP. In response to these challenges, payers are in a pivotal position to leverage existing tools, such as data and modern technology, to…

PJM Interconnection’s failure to account for RMR power plants in capacity auctions may drive up costs by $15 billion in the next three auctions, says a complaint by the Sierra Club. Introduction The PJM Interconnection, which manages the electric grid for several U.S. states, is facing significant scrutiny for its capacity market practices, which could lead to billions in added costs for ratepayers. According to a complaint filed by the Sierra Club and other environmental and consumer advocacy groups, PJM’s failure to properly account for power plants with Reliability Must-Run (RMR) contracts in its capacity market could cost consumers as…

AgriSIMA will debut in February 2026, bringing new energy to France’s international agricultural trade show, focused on innovation and industry challenges. Introduction The agricultural industry in France is preparing for a significant event—AgriSIMA, a newly launched international agricultural equipment trade show. AgriSIMA comes in response to the cancellation of the previous SIMA show, which was scheduled for November but failed to secure enough participants. Now, a new team has stepped in to organize the event, bringing fresh energy, ideas, and solutions to the agricultural sector. Taking place from February 22 to 25, 2026, at the Parc des Expositions de Paris…

Visa strengthens its fraud detection and risk management capabilities with the acquisition of AI-driven payment protection company Featurespace. The deal is expected to close by fiscal year 2025, boosting global payment security. Introduction Visa, a global leader in payment technology, has announced its strategic acquisition of Featurespace, a cutting-edge company specializing in real-time AI-powered fraud detection and financial crime prevention. This acquisition marks a significant step forward in Visa’s ongoing efforts to enhance its fraud detection capabilities and provide unparalleled security solutions to its clients worldwide. With a history rooted in innovation at Cambridge University, Featurespace’s AI-driven technology is set…