Author: Helen Barklam
Helen Barklam is Editor of Investment Guide. Helen is a journalist and writer with more than 25 years experience. Helen has worked in a wide range of different sectors, including health and wellness, sport, digital marketing, home design and finance. Helen aims to ensure our community have a wealth of quality content to read and enjoy.
AI startups raised an impressive $11.8 billion in the third quarter of 2024, despite market turbulence caused by US restrictions on AI chip exports to China and concerns over tech valuations. New figures from Stocklytics.com highlight that while venture capital (VC) funding has slowed overall, artificial intelligence remains the top sector for investors, with total funding in 2024 reaching a record $53 billion so far. AI Startups Make Up 30% of Total VC Funding in Q3 The AI sector remains a key growth area for venture capital investors, despite some recent market volatility. Although investors have become more selective in…
Charge-M8, an EV charging expert based in Manchester, has launched Libra, a new dynamic load balancing device, which the company believes to be unique in the global EV charging market. Set to be available from September, Libra allows various brands of EV chargers to be load balanced using integrated Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) platforms. Ian Hughes, Technical Director of Charge-M8, explained: “For our commercial EV chargers, we specifically chose not to use directly connected load balancing due to the reliability issues and long-distance reading inaccuracies we’ve encountered. Particularly in commercial installations, the incoming power supply is often located far…
ATFX has announced a significant strategic investment in Spark Systems, a Singapore-based eFX trading platform, as part of its broader efforts to expand its institutional services. The investment, which comes through a Series C funding round, will enable ATFX to deepen its presence in the Asian market and strengthen its global offering in the foreign exchange (FX) trading sector. Spark Systems, known for its advanced electronic trading platforms, has attracted backing from major global financial institutions, including Citibank and HSBC, alongside leading venture capital firms. This new partnership is expected to bring a host of synergies between the two firms,…
Zendbox, a leading eCommerce fulfilment services, has reported that later order cut-off times are key to improving conversion rates, fostering customer loyalty, and increasing revenue. With 35% of online orders placed between 4pm and 9pm, Zendbox has responded by launching a 10pm cut-off time, enabling merchants to provide next-day delivery to more customers. This has led to an average 15% increase in conversion rates for clients. James Khoury, CEO and founder of Zendbox, commented: “After analysing the eCommerce SMEs, and major brands that work with us, we have discovered that merchants who don’t offer late order cut-off times, are missing…
OTS Taxi In recent years, on-demand transportation systems (OTS Taxi) have transformed urban mobility, drastically reshaping the landscape of traditional taxi services. With the emergence of platforms like Uber, Lyft, and other ride-hailing apps, the concept of a “taxi” has evolved from the conventional image of a yellow cab hailed from the curb to a tech-powered, user-friendly system. This revolution in transportation has not only changed the way people move from place to place but also impacted economic, social, and environmental aspects of urban life. This essay will delve into the concept of on-demand transportation systems, the rise of the…
The insurance industry, long known for its traditional methods and manual processes, is now experiencing a digital transformation. Insurers and insurance providers are increasingly adopting technology to streamline operations, improve customer satisfaction, and gain a competitive edge. For investors, this presents a compelling opportunity to back technology-enabled insurance businesses that offer significant potential for growth and efficiency. By leveraging digital tools, insurance companies can automate processes, empower customers with self-service options, and reduce reliance on staff. This not only cuts costs but also enhances the overall customer experience. 1. Streamlining Operations for Greater Efficiency Insurance businesses have traditionally relied on…
In this IronWave-Capital.com review, we will take an in-depth look at how this platform is helping users boost their financial literacy through comprehensive learning resources, while also exploring its investment options, account types, and growing popularity in countries like the Netherlands, Spain, and Portugal. Financial literacy is the cornerstone of successful trading and investment. As the world of finance becomes increasingly complex, platforms like IronWave-Capital.com have emerged as vital resources, offering not just cutting-edge investment instruments but also an extensive suite of learning materials to empower both novice and seasoned traders. IronWave-Capital.com Review: A Comprehensive Library of Learning Resources One…
Italgas SpA has outlined ambitious new financial targets following its recent agreement to acquire rival gas distributor 2i Rete Gas. The Italian energy firm said it aims to generate nearly €3 billion (£2.6 billion) in profit by 2030. The company expects earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) to reach €2.8 billion by the end of the decade. The Milan-based company also confirmed its commitment to a 65% dividend payout, with a new minimum annual growth rate of 5%. Following the announcement, Italgas shares initially surged by 2.5% in Milan trading, hitting their highest level since June 2023, before…
Those who haven’t lived under a rock must be aware of how apps have revolutionised the e-commerce industry lately and taken precedence over websites. Increased dependency on smartphones, a seamless user experience and customers’ changed shopping preferences are certain factors that have contributed to this rather much-needed switch from websites to apps. And why shouldn’t that be the case? Mobile apps are designed to provide a more personalised, engaging and convenient shopping experience. Feel Good Contacts’ mobile app has enhanced the customers’ shopping experience for eye care essentials with its easy-to-navigate interface, personalised push notifications, customised features, and detailed product…
