Economy stories

Australian businesses could unlock a USD $60bn productivity gain by saving 8%-10% on external supplier spend without job or performance cuts.

The Denodo University Challenge invites global students to develop AI solutions for real-world social and economic issues, with registration open until 16 November.

Contractor and consulting roles surge globally, with Oyster reporting a 46% rise in contractor engagements and a tenfold increase in consulting hires in 2024.

UK CEOs are delaying investments and reshaping strategies amid trade uncertainties, with 83% postponing plans due to recent tariff changes, finds EY survey.

SugarCRM integrates sales-i with Sugar Sell to help sales teams uncover revenue opportunities and enhance performance amid economic challenges.

Anetac launches Human Link Pro, unifying human and non-human identity management with AI to combat rising security risks amid workforce shifts globally.

Retailers name the cost of living crisis their biggest challenge in 2025, with 56% citing it as the main concern amid economic uncertainty, says Fluent Commerce.

The European Large Format Display market is struggling as unit sales and prices dip, despite higher shipments; education sector saturation is a key factor.

A report reveals that business travellers are booking hotels earlier, with average lead times rising to 17.35 days in late 2024, up nearly 7% from 2023.

Kantar's latest report reveals a surge in ad-supported streaming subscriptions in the UK, rising to 31% amid changing viewer habits and economic pressures.

ScotlandIS predicts a surge in AI skills demand and hybrid working models for 2025, despite economic hurdles, with a push for greener data centres.

Accept Cards has launched Accept Cash, an innovative solution for SMEs enabling same-day cash deposits amid rising bank branch closures in the UK.

LG Electronics has achieved record third-quarter revenue of AUD $24.23 billion amidst ongoing global economic challenges.

A study reveals the UK's STEM workforce is losing GBP £64 billion annually due to limited access to advanced AI tools, impacting productivity significantly.

Complaints about fraud and scams hit a six-year high, with more than half involving bank transfers, as cybercriminals target mobile devices, says FOS.

The Open Data Institute's recent report exposes weaknesses in the UK's tech infrastructure, warning that poor data governance in AI could undermine societal benefits and trust.

In the aftermath of the UK's General Election, experts urge the new government to prioritise AI and process intelligence to streamline businesses and enhance productivity.

In response to economic upheavals, 50% of boardroom leaders, particularly in the US and UK, have shrunk tech budgets over the past year.

Cardiff Council has selected Telcom Group to deploy the next phase of its full fibre internet network, aiming for 100% coverage by 2025.

As mere 2p in every £1 invested in early-stage UK businesses goes to women, the IWD 2024 focus is on addressing the disparity in funding for female entrepreneurs.