5 must reads for the weekend

We keep our ear to the ground for the interesting stats, insights and discussion points you need to feel in the know.

1. EY unveils new global tagline

Everything is changing. Everywhere. All the time. Be it human, financial, environmental, geopolitical... the list goes on. So how do the world’s organizations shape themselves to adapt, pivot, deliver and grow? As the saying goes: the best way to predict the future is to create it. And that takes confidence. At EY, there are 400,000 people globally across a full spectrum of skills and services, augmented by the EY.ai platform, working together to help clients shape the future. We believe in this so much, that we have put the phrase “Shape the future with confidence” front and center alongside our logo. It reflects our unwavering commitment to create new value and build confidence in the capital markets through whatever challenges we collectively face. Which in turn, will help find us fulfill our enduring purpose of Building a better working world for clients, EY people, society and the planet. We look forward to shaping the future with you.

EY unveils new global tagline

2. Aerospace risk

Disruption is hitting the aerospace and defence (A&D) sector hard, and companies are scrambling to keep up. Many businesses are turning to AI, machine learning, digital twins, and blockchain to stay ahead, using these technologies for everything from forecasting to logistics. The COVID-19 pandemic only made things worse, straining already delicate supply chains. High costs, limited material availability, and labour shortages are just some of the hurdles. Traditional supply chain monitoring just doesn’t cut it anymore, given the volatility from inflation and geopolitical issues. A&D companies need more than reactive strategies; they need proactive measures using digital tools. AI and machine learning, for example, can provide real-time data and predictive analytics to mitigate risks before they become major problems. Here is why those technologies are more important than ever — and how to begin putting them to use... 

Digital supply chains help manage aerospace risk 

3. The classroom of tomorrow

Picture a world where classrooms buzz with the energy of personalized education and the spirit of innovation is nurtured—this is the classroom of tomorrow, brought to life by GenAI. Cutting-edge tools like ChatGPT and TutorAI are not just teaching aids; they're revolutionizing students' curiosity, prompting them to delve deeper and ask better questions. In the United States, teachers are getting in on the action too. They're weaving GenAI into their lessons, allowing them to concentrate on intricate subject matter while AI handles the basics. For instance, Khan Academy has created a special tutor called Khanmigo, which helps students think and challenges them but doesn't just give them the answers. And Duolingo? It's using GenAI to tailor language learning for each student, making mastering a new language feel like a breeze. As we stand at the cusp of an educational renaissance, it's imperative that we leverage GenAI judiciously, especially as it affects the world's youngest and most impressionable minds. By marrying enthusiasm with a measured approach, educators can ensure that this technological advancement acts as a springboard for inclusive and effective learning experiences for all students. Together, we can shape a future where education is not just enhanced by technology, but transformed by it… 

Can GenAI generate a new pedagogy? 

4. Walk the talk

It's becoming pretty clear that what used to be hopeful goals for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) are now turning into some serious rules that businesses must stick to. In the past, lots of companies aimed high, sharing polished reports and detailed their environmental impact. Now, companies are swapping their rose-tinted glasses for magnifying ones, as they navigate a maze of regulations and strive for data accuracy. As the EY Global Integrity Report 2024 highlights, a staggering 37% of businesses are struggling to keep pace with the relentless changes in ESG mandates across the globe. This regulatory whirlwind is not all doom and gloom though. It's prompting companies to adopt a more sophisticated stance on sustainability, integrating it into their core strategies rather than just ticking boxes. The road ahead is complex, with many organizations learning to walk the ESG talk with the right mix of policies. But those who dare to aim higher than mere compliance are discovering the intrinsic value of sustainability as a business imperative. To become integrity-first on ESG, organizations will need to focus on these five key areas... 

ESG integrity reaches a crossroad

5. Winning with people

Navigating tough times? Focus on your team. In challenging economic times, sell-offs and carve-outs can boost cash flow and streamline operations, setting companies up for future growth. These strategies are invaluable for generating immediate cash, reducing debt, and enhancing operational efficiency. However, the real key to success lies in focusing on people. Prioritizing employee satisfaction and retention during carve-outs ensures long-term sustainability and smooth transitions. Effective communication, thorough knowledge transfer, legal compliance, and maintaining service continuity are crucial. By focusing on talent retention and employee wellbeing, companies can prevent value loss and ensure a thriving workforce. This human-centered approach not only mitigates disruptions but also strengthens the new entity’s chances of success. Emphasizing people throughout the carve-out process helps maintain productivity, preserve essential business knowledge, and support future collaborations, ultimately driving growth and resilience in uncertain times. Here are ten ways to prioritize people when driving successful carve-outs... 

Ten ways to prioritize people when driving successful carve-outs

If you do one thing: 

Put people first. 

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