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CENOMI CENTERS ANNOUNCES LANDMARK VENTURE TO INSTALL SOLAR PANELS ACROSS PORTFOLIO – PRWire

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CENOMI CENTERS ANNOUNCES LANDMARK VENTURE TO INSTALL SOLAR PANELS ACROSS PORTFOLIO – PRWire
CENOMI CENTERS ANNOUNCES LANDMARK VENTURE TO INSTALL SOLAR PANELS ACROSS PORTFOLIO – PRWire

PRWire:

  • Cenomi Centers and a consortium formed by FAS Energy and Marubeni Corporation sign renewable energy development agreement during COP28;
  • Agreement allows for solar panels to be installed across Cenomi Centers sites, including roofs and carports, delivering a total capacity of approximately 52MWp;
  • At full deployment, the expectation is that CO2 emissions will reduce by 53,000 tons annually;

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 13 December 2023: Cenomi Centers, the leading owner, operator and developer of contemporary lifestyle centers in Saudi Arabia, is delighted to announce a partnership through the execution of a Portfolio Development Agreement (the “Agreement”) with a consortium formed by FAS Energy and Marubeni Corporation, which will see solar PV panels reducing Cenomi Centers’ Scope 2 emissions drastically across their sites. 

The Agreement, which underlines Cenomi Centers’ place at the forefront of sustainable innovation in the Kingdom, was executed with a consortium formed by FAS Energy, part of KSA’s Saudi FAS Holding and Marubeni, a Japanese global market leader in utilities. The partnership was signed by Alison Rehill-Erguven, CEO of Cenomi Centers, Yoshiaki Yokota, CEO, Energy & Infrastructure Solution Group of Marubeni, and Turki Mansour Al Hokair, CEO of FAS Energy, during COP28.

The parties will initially deploy solar PV panels for a period of twenty years on the roofs and carports of 13 selected Cenomi Centers’ assets and may extend to the installation of related EV charging infrastructure, subject to all regulatory approval and permit applicable in Saudi Arabia. The initial deployment is expected to accommodate a total capacity of approximately 52MWp and generate 93 GWh per year. 

The plans demonstrate Cenomi Centers’ commitment to support Saudi Arabia in its Vision 2030 ambitions to be Net Zero by 2060. At full deployment, it is expected that 15% of Cenomi Centers’ annual electricity consumption will come from 100% renewable sources. The installations will result in the reduction of 53,000 tons of CO2 emissions per year, which is equivalent to 870,000 trees grown for 10 years. This Agreement with FAS Energy and Marubeni Corporation supports Cenomi Centers in delivering on its ambitions to create and maintain a sustainable business model that offers a positive, lasting impact on the communities in which it operates.

The installations will be rolled out in phases, beginning with Cenomi Centers’ sites in Riyadh in early 2024, before moving on to other shopping centers across the Kingdom. All sites are expected to be completed and in operation by 2025. The Agreement is based on a ‘design, finance, build, own and operate’ model – without upfront capital investments or any operational burdens to Cenomi Centers.

Commenting on the Agreement, Alison Rehill-Erguven, Cenomi Centers CEO, said: “As developers. owners and operators of commercial real estate, we recognise that we have a responsibility to ensure we are consistently working to enhance our environmental footprint. This exciting partnership is another step in our journey to build a new way of doing things and future-proofing our assets as part of our commitment to a conscious and responsible way of doing business. We want to go beyond what is expected of us and be a pioneering force for future prosperity.”

Yoshiaki Yokota, CEO, Energy & Infrastructure Solution Group of Marubeni, said: “I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Cenomi for its strong leadership and coordination towards sustainable innovation. As one of the global leading energy solution providers, we will materialize this project steadily and expand the cooperation with Cenomi to a wider field for its advancement of environmentally friendly business operation. Through this decentralized power generation business, Marubeni will contribute to the achievement of Saudi Arabia’s GHG net zero emissions target by 2060 and the realization of a sustainable society in Saudi Arabia.”
Turki Mansour Al Hokair, CEO of FAS Energy, said: “the development of this project is a milestone in the history of FAS Energy which will be the starting point for an expansion into all of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Our focus is now the speedy implementation of quality power generation installations on all sites, enabling Cenomi Center to deliver on their commitments to reduce its environmental footprints.”

CENOMI CENTERS ANNOUNCES LANDMARK VENTURE TO INSTALL SOLAR PANELS ACROSS PORTFOLIO – PRWire

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CENOMI CENTERS ANNOUNCES LANDMARK VENTURE TO INSTALL SOLAR PANELS ACROSS PORTFOLIO – PRWire
  • Cenomi Centers and a consortium formed by FAS Energy and Marubeni Corporation sign renewable energy development agreement during COP28;
  • Agreement allows for solar panels to be installed across Cenomi Centers sites, including roofs and carports, delivering a total capacity of approximately 52MWp;
  • At full deployment, the expectation is that CO2 emissions will reduce by 53,000 tons annually;

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 13 December 2023: Cenomi Centers, the leading owner, operator and developer of contemporary lifestyle centers in Saudi Arabia, is delighted to announce a partnership through the execution of a Portfolio Development Agreement (the “Agreement”) with a consortium formed by FAS Energy and Marubeni Corporation, which will see solar PV panels reducing Cenomi Centers’ Scope 2 emissions drastically across their sites. 

The Agreement, which underlines Cenomi Centers’ place at the forefront of sustainable innovation in the Kingdom, was executed with a consortium formed by FAS Energy, part of KSA’s Saudi FAS Holding and Marubeni, a Japanese global market leader in utilities. The partnership was signed by Alison Rehill-Erguven, CEO of Cenomi Centers, Yoshiaki Yokota, CEO, Energy & Infrastructure Solution Group of Marubeni, and Turki Mansour Al Hokair, CEO of FAS Energy, during COP28.

The parties will initially deploy solar PV panels for a period of twenty years on the roofs and carports of 13 selected Cenomi Centers’ assets and may extend to the installation of related EV charging infrastructure, subject to all regulatory approval and permit applicable in Saudi Arabia. The initial deployment is expected to accommodate a total capacity of approximately 52MWp and generate 93 GWh per year. 

The plans demonstrate Cenomi Centers’ commitment to support Saudi Arabia in its Vision 2030 ambitions to be Net Zero by 2060. At full deployment, it is expected that 15% of Cenomi Centers’ annual electricity consumption will come from 100% renewable sources. The installations will result in the reduction of 53,000 tons of CO2 emissions per year, which is equivalent to 870,000 trees grown for 10 years. This Agreement with FAS Energy and Marubeni Corporation supports Cenomi Centers in delivering on its ambitions to create and maintain a sustainable business model that offers a positive, lasting impact on the communities in which it operates.

The installations will be rolled out in phases, beginning with Cenomi Centers’ sites in Riyadh in early 2024, before moving on to other shopping centers across the Kingdom. All sites are expected to be completed and in operation by 2025. The Agreement is based on a ‘design, finance, build, own and operate’ model – without upfront capital investments or any operational burdens to Cenomi Centers.

Commenting on the Agreement, Alison Rehill-Erguven, Cenomi Centers CEO, said: “As developers. owners and operators of commercial real estate, we recognise that we have a responsibility to ensure we are consistently working to enhance our environmental footprint. This exciting partnership is another step in our journey to build a new way of doing things and future-proofing our assets as part of our commitment to a conscious and responsible way of doing business. We want to go beyond what is expected of us and be a pioneering force for future prosperity.”

Yoshiaki Yokota, CEO, Energy & Infrastructure Solution Group of Marubeni, said: “I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Cenomi for its strong leadership and coordination towards sustainable innovation. As one of the global leading energy solution providers, we will materialize this project steadily and expand the cooperation with Cenomi to a wider field for its advancement of environmentally friendly business operation. Through this decentralized power generation business, Marubeni will contribute to the achievement of Saudi Arabia’s GHG net zero emissions target by 2060 and the realization of a sustainable society in Saudi Arabia.”
Turki Mansour Al Hokair, CEO of FAS Energy, said: “the development of this project is a milestone in the history of FAS Energy which will be the starting point for an expansion into all of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Our focus is now the speedy implementation of quality power generation installations on all sites, enabling Cenomi Center to deliver on their commitments to reduce its environmental footprints.”

CENOMI CENTERS ANNOUNCES LANDMARK VENTURE TO INSTALL SOLAR PANELS ACROSS PORTFOLIO

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CENOMI CENTERS ANNOUNCES LANDMARK VENTURE TO INSTALL SOLAR PANELS ACROSS PORTFOLIO

PRWire

  • Cenomi Centers and a consortium formed by FAS Energy and Marubeni Corporation sign renewable energy development agreement during COP28;
  • Agreement allows for solar panels to be installed across Cenomi Centers sites, including roofs and carports, delivering a total capacity of approximately 52MWp;
  • At full deployment, the expectation is that CO2 emissions will reduce by 53,000 tons annually;

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 13 December 2023: Cenomi Centers, the leading owner, operator and developer of contemporary lifestyle centers in Saudi Arabia, is delighted to announce a partnership through the execution of a Portfolio Development Agreement (the “Agreement”) with a consortium formed by FAS Energy and Marubeni Corporation, which will see solar PV panels reducing Cenomi Centers’ Scope 2 emissions drastically across their sites.

The Agreement, which underlines Cenomi Centers’ place at the forefront of sustainable innovation in the Kingdom, was executed with a consortium formed by FAS Energy, part of KSA’s Saudi FAS Holding and Marubeni, a Japanese global market leader in utilities. The partnership was signed by Alison Rehill-Erguven, CEO of Cenomi Centers, Yoshiaki Yokota, CEO, Energy & Infrastructure Solution Group of Marubeni, and Turki Mansour Al Hokair, CEO of FAS Energy, during COP28.

The parties will initially deploy solar PV panels for a period of twenty years on the roofs and carports of 13 selected Cenomi Centers’ assets and may extend to the installation of related EV charging infrastructure, subject to all regulatory approval and permit applicable in Saudi Arabia. The initial deployment is expected to accommodate a total capacity of approximately 52MWp and generate 93 GWh per year.

The plans demonstrate Cenomi Centers’ commitment to support Saudi Arabia in its Vision 2030 ambitions to be Net Zero by 2060. At full deployment, it is expected that 15% of Cenomi Centers’ annual electricity consumption will come from 100% renewable sources. The installations will result in the reduction of 53,000 tons of CO2 emissions per year, which is equivalent to 870,000 trees grown for 10 years. This Agreement with FAS Energy and Marubeni Corporation supports Cenomi Centers in delivering on its ambitions to create and maintain a sustainable business model that offers a positive, lasting impact on the communities in which it operates.

The installations will be rolled out in phases, beginning with Cenomi Centers’ sites in Riyadh in early 2024, before moving on to other shopping centers across the Kingdom. All sites are expected to be completed and in operation by 2025. The Agreement is based on a ‘design, finance, build, own and operate’ model – without upfront capital investments or any operational burdens to Cenomi Centers.

Commenting on the Agreement, Alison Rehill-Erguven, Cenomi Centers CEO, said: “As developers, owners and operators of commercial real estate, we recognise that we have a responsibility to ensure we are consistently working to enhance our environmental footprint. This exciting partnership is another step in our journey to build a new way of doing things and future-proofing our assets as part of our commitment to a conscious and responsible way of doing business. We want to go beyond what is expected of us and be a pioneering force for future prosperity.”

Yoshiaki Yokota, CEO, Energy & Infrastructure Solution Group of Marubeni, said: “I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Cenomi for its strong leadership and coordination towards sustainable innovation. As one of the global leading energy solution providers, we will materialize this project steadily and expand the cooperation with Cenomi to a wider field for its advancement of environmentally friendly business operation. Through this decentralized power generation business, Marubeni will contribute to the achievement of Saudi Arabia’s GHG net zero emissions target by 2060 and the realization of a sustainable society in Saudi Arabia.”
Turki Mansour Al Hokair, CEO of FAS Energy, said: “the development of this project is a milestone in the history of FAS Energy which will be the starting point for an expansion into all of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Our focus is now the speedy implementation of quality power generation installations on all sites, enabling Cenomi Center to deliver on their commitments to reduce its environmental footprints.”

Debut Memoir Shows America Needs Hispanic Values to Survive – PRWire

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Debut Memoir Shows America Needs Hispanic Values to Survive – PRWire

Eric Salinas Nebel

Los Angeles, CA || December 2023

 

Eric Salinas Nebel has spent a decade fighting to tell Hispanic stories in Hollywood. Due to the WGA strike, all progress came to a soul-crushing halt. Then, his son was born three weeks later. As a new father and 2nd-generation Mexican-American, he was struck with an angst that the Hispanic culture that raised him would die with him. To cope, he wrote this book. 

 

Hispanic in the Box: Inside the Power of Latin-Americana is a cultural memoir that blends personal family stories with historical nonfiction to explore the vibrant, yet dizzying effects of Spanish colonialism and American imperialism trapped inside that innocuous census box. From Moorish Spain, family origins in 17th century Texas, revolutionaries, immigrant grandparents, Catholicism, and cowboys, the journey coalesces into a singular vision that uses Hispanic culture to reinvigorate the modern American Dream. 

 

In transcending trauma and stereotypes, the book reclaims the true power of Latin-Americana – the overlooked contributions Hispanics have made to American culture. It was written for those 60+ million Hispanic-Americans who make up the 5th largest GDP in the world. Specifically, the 35+ million who experience America one or two generations away from their family’s immigrant origins, making them the most sought-after and perplexing voting bloc in politics. Most importantly, it is for those who seek to respect the sacrifices of the past by trying to create a more equitable and inclusive future.

 

Available online at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CMJTF8HL?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860

 

Eric Salinas Nebel grew up in the suburbs of Houston, Texas, spent summer vacations in the Rio Grande Valley, lived in Valencia, Spain and graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with degrees in Radio, TV & Film and Spanish. As he worked his way up the rungs of Tinseltown, Eric mentored at Inside Out Writers and hit the pavement for grassroots political campaigns. His debut memoir was written amid a historic Hollywood labor strike and the first months of fatherhood, molded by late-night feedings, coffee, picket lines, fear, stress, exhaustion, and a love he is only beginning to understand.

Debut Memoir Shows America Needs Hispanic Values to Survive – PRWire

For more information about Hispanic in the Box: Inside the Power of Latin-Americana or to schedule an interview with Eric, please contact directly at 281-731-9374 or email ericnebel02@gmail.com. Instagram: eric.nebel

Debut Memoir Shows America Needs Hispanic Values to Survive

theconverser.com
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0
Debut Memoir Shows America Needs Hispanic Values to Survive

PRWire

Eric Salinas Nebel

Los Angeles, CA || December 2023

Eric Salinas Nebel has spent a decade fighting to tell Hispanic stories in Hollywood. Due to the WGA strike, all progress came to a soul-crushing halt. Then, his son was born three weeks later. As a new father and 2nd-generation Mexican-American, he was struck with an angst that the Hispanic culture that raised him would die with him. To cope, he wrote this book. 

Hispanic in the Box: Inside the Power of Latin-Americana is a cultural memoir that blends personal family stories with historical nonfiction to explore the vibrant, yet dizzying effects of Spanish colonialism and American imperialism trapped inside that innocuous census box. From Moorish Spain, family origins in 17th century Texas, revolutionaries, immigrant grandparents, Catholicism, and cowboys, the journey coalesces into a singular vision that uses Hispanic culture to reinvigorate the modern American Dream.

In transcending trauma and stereotypes, the book reclaims the true power of Latin-Americana – the overlooked contributions Hispanics have made to American culture. It was written for those 60+ million Hispanic-Americans who make up the 5th largest GDP in the world. Specifically, the 35+ million who experience America one or two generations away from their family’s immigrant origins, making them the most sought-after and perplexing voting bloc in politics. Most importantly, it is for those who seek to respect the sacrifices of the past by trying to create a more equitable and inclusive future.

Available online at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CMJTF8HL?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860

Debut Memoir Shows America Needs Hispanic Values to Survive – PRWireEric Salinas Nebel grew up in the suburbs of Houston, Texas, spent summer vacations in the Rio Grande Valley, lived in Valencia, Spain and graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with degrees in Radio, TV & Film and Spanish. As he worked his way up the rungs of Tinseltown, Eric mentored at Inside Out Writers and hit the pavement for grassroots political campaigns. His debut memoir was written amid a historic Hollywood labor strike and the first months of fatherhood, molded by late-night feedings, coffee, picket lines, fear, stress, exhaustion, and a love he is only beginning to understand.

For more information about Hispanic in the Box: Inside the Power of Latin-Americana or to schedule an interview with Eric, please contact directly at 281-731-9374 or email ericnebel02@gmail.com. Instagram: eric.nebel ericnebel02@gmail.com

Saudi Arabia leads adoption of AI in financial services closely followed by UAE, says Finastra global survey – PRWire

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Saudi Arabia leads adoption of AI in financial services closely followed by UAE, says Finastra global survey – PRWire
Saudi Arabia leads adoption of AI in financial services closely followed by UAE, says Finastra global survey – PRWire

Saudi Arabia leads adoption of AI in financial services closely followed by UAE, says Finastra global survey

·       Saudi Arabia ranks highest and the UAE second highest globally for AI adoption in the last 12 months; majority of leaders also interested in Gen AI

·       90% of respondents in the UAE and 91% in Saudi Arabia believe Open Finance enables a greater range of financial services, yet more support from regulators is needed

PRWire: Dubai, UAE and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Finastra’s annual global survey reveals that despite economic constraints, financial institutions in the UAE and Saudi Arabia are among the global leaders in investment in artificial intelligence (AI), Banking as a Service (BaaS) and embedded finance.

The ‘Financial Services: State of the Nation Survey 2023’ finds that nearly 9 in 10 (87%) institutions in the UAE and nearly two thirds (64%) in Saudi Arabia say the economic climate has constrained their technology investments. Compared to the global average of 78%, the UAE has felt the pinch particularly hard, yet sentiment in both countries remains positive. 78% of firms in the UAE and 72% in Saudi Arabia expect investments to return in full before the end of H1 2024, both higher than the global average (69%).

Despite this, the survey reveals that both regions have emerged as global leaders in AI. 55% of respondents in Saudi Arabia, the highest globally, and 45% in the UAE, the second highest, say they have deployed or improved AI in the last 12 months. The UAE shows a significant uptick in AI adoption from 25% in 2022, and both regions are notably above the global average of 37%. Financial institutions are setting their sights on generative AI (Gen AI) in particular. 88% of decision-makers in Saudi Arabia and 86% in the UAE say they are interested in the technology, with 27% and 34% respectively having already incorporated it in some form, both higher than the global average of 26%.

Respondents have differing views about the priority use cases for Gen AI. In the UAE, institutions state automating manual or repetitive tasks, such as document checking or documenting code functionality, as the top benefit (43%), followed by collecting, processing or analyzing data for environmental, social and governance (ESG), such as to make investment or lending decisions (40%). The latter is the top benefit for 47% of firms in Saudi Arabia, followed by enhancing IT operations, such as process automation or infrastructure optimization (36%).

The research, conducted from August to September 2023, canvassed the opinions of 956 professionals at financial institutions across France, Germany, Hong Kong, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, UK, US and Vietnam.

Other insights include:

·       UAE and Saudi Arabia lead on BaaS adoption: nearly half (49%) of institutions in the UAE, an uptick from 41% in 2022, and 53% in Saudi Arabia have improved or deployed BaaS in the last 12 months, higher than the global average of 48%. The most advanced use case in the UAE is cited as FX as a Service, while embedded lending to SMEs is the most popular in Saudi Arabia.

·       Open Finance welcomed, but more support needed: 9 in 10 respondents in the UAE believe Open Finance gives consumers access to a greater range of financial services, however, a similar proportion (91%) believe more support from regulators and industry bodies is required to make Open Finance a success. These figures are similar in Saudi Arabia, at 89% and 88% respectively.

·       Banking is about more than just finance: Nearly 9 in 10 (89%) leaders in the UAE and slightly more (92%) in Saudi Arabia say it is important for financial services to support ESG initiatives and actively seek to improve in this space. The majority also agree that financial literacy and supporting vulnerable audiences should be a key focus (88% and 90% respectively).

·       Leaders are excited about the speed of change: When asked about whether they are excited about the pace of technological and cultural change in financial services personally, for their financial institution and for the wider industry, both regions scored highly in all areas. In the UAE, these figures are 90%, 88% and 80% respectively, while the same is true for 93%, 90% and 92% for institutions in Saudi.

“Despite the challenging economic climate, it’s clear from our research that investment in AI, BaaS, and embedded finance remain key priorities for financial services organizations over the next 12 months,” said Simon Paris, Chief Executive Officer at Finastra. “This is particularly prevalent in the UAE and Saudi Arabia where institutions have emerged as some of the global leaders in technological innovation – echoing last year’s findings in the UAE – showing great promise for the future of financial services in these regions. We share the industry’s ongoing commitment to ESG initiatives, collaboration around Open Finance, and excitement in using advanced technologies like AI to help deliver on the opportunities ahead.”

Access the full report and findings here.

Survey Methodology

·       A total of 956 professionals (at managerial level) in financial institutions and banks across the US, UK, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam and the UAE were surveyed. These financial institutions represent a gross total of around USD$33 billion in turnover over the last 12 months, employ approximately 2.4 million staff and have approximately 240 million client / customer / member relationships.

·       As a result of rounding up percentage results, the answers to some questions might not always add up exactly to 100%. Respondents were also able to select more than one answer for some questions.

·       Comparative analysis was made from results of a similar survey run by Finastra in August 2022 which was also conducted online amongst financial institutions and banks across the same markets, except for Saudi Arabia and Vietnam.

·       The research was conducted by Savanta via an online panel (August to September 2023).

Saudi Arabia leads adoption of AI in financial services closely followed by UAE, says Finastra global survey

theconverser.com
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0
Saudi Arabia leads adoption of AI in financial services closely followed by UAE, says Finastra global survey
Saudi Arabia leads adoption of AI in financial services closely followed by UAE, says Finastra global survey

Saudi Arabia leads adoption of AI in financial services closely followed by UAE, says Finastra global survey

·       Saudi Arabia ranks highest and the UAE second highest globally for AI adoption in the last 12 months; majority of leaders also interested in Gen AI

·       90% of respondents in the UAE and 91% in Saudi Arabia believe Open Finance enables a greater range of financial services, yet more support from regulators is needed

PRWire: Dubai, UAE and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Finastra’s annual global survey reveals that despite economic constraints, financial institutions in the UAE and Saudi Arabia are among the global leaders in investment in artificial intelligence (AI), Banking as a Service (BaaS) and embedded finance.

The ‘Financial Services: State of the Nation Survey 2023’ finds that nearly 9 in 10 (87%) institutions in the UAE and nearly two thirds (64%) in Saudi Arabia say the economic climate has constrained their technology investments. Compared to the global average of 78%, the UAE has felt the pinch particularly hard, yet sentiment in both countries remains positive. 78% of firms in the UAE and 72% in Saudi Arabia expect investments to return in full before the end of H1 2024, both higher than the global average (69%).

Despite this, the survey reveals that both regions have emerged as global leaders in AI. 55% of respondents in Saudi Arabia, the highest globally, and 45% in the UAE, the second highest, say they have deployed or improved AI in the last 12 months. The UAE shows a significant uptick in AI adoption from 25% in 2022, and both regions are notably above the global average of 37%. Financial institutions are setting their sights on generative AI (Gen AI) in particular. 88% of decision-makers in Saudi Arabia and 86% in the UAE say they are interested in the technology, with 27% and 34% respectively having already incorporated it in some form, both higher than the global average of 26%.

Respondents have differing views about the priority use cases for Gen AI. In the UAE, institutions state automating manual or repetitive tasks, such as document checking or documenting code functionality, as the top benefit (43%), followed by collecting, processing or analyzing data for environmental, social and governance (ESG), such as to make investment or lending decisions (40%). The latter is the top benefit for 47% of firms in Saudi Arabia, followed by enhancing IT operations, such as process automation or infrastructure optimization (36%).

The research, conducted from August to September 2023, canvassed the opinions of 956 professionals at financial institutions across France, Germany, Hong Kong, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, UK, US and Vietnam.

Other insights include:

·       UAE and Saudi Arabia lead on BaaS adoption: nearly half (49%) of institutions in the UAE, an uptick from 41% in 2022, and 53% in Saudi Arabia have improved or deployed BaaS in the last 12 months, higher than the global average of 48%. The most advanced use case in the UAE is cited as FX as a Service, while embedded lending to SMEs is the most popular in Saudi Arabia.

·       Open Finance welcomed, but more support needed: 9 in 10 respondents in the UAE believe Open Finance gives consumers access to a greater range of financial services, however, a similar proportion (91%) believe more support from regulators and industry bodies is required to make Open Finance a success. These figures are similar in Saudi Arabia, at 89% and 88% respectively.

·       Banking is about more than just finance: Nearly 9 in 10 (89%) leaders in the UAE and slightly more (92%) in Saudi Arabia say it is important for financial services to support ESG initiatives and actively seek to improve in this space. The majority also agree that financial literacy and supporting vulnerable audiences should be a key focus (88% and 90% respectively).

·       Leaders are excited about the speed of change: When asked about whether they are excited about the pace of technological and cultural change in financial services personally, for their financial institution and for the wider industry, both regions scored highly in all areas. In the UAE, these figures are 90%, 88% and 80% respectively, while the same is true for 93%, 90% and 92% for institutions in Saudi.

“Despite the challenging economic climate, it’s clear from our research that investment in AI, BaaS, and embedded finance remain key priorities for financial services organizations over the next 12 months,” said Simon Paris, Chief Executive Officer at Finastra. “This is particularly prevalent in the UAE and Saudi Arabia where institutions have emerged as some of the global leaders in technological innovation – echoing last year’s findings in the UAE – showing great promise for the future of financial services in these regions. We share the industry’s ongoing commitment to ESG initiatives, collaboration around Open Finance, and excitement in using advanced technologies like AI to help deliver on the opportunities ahead.”

Access the full report and findings here.

Survey Methodology

·       A total of 956 professionals (at managerial level) in financial institutions and banks across the US, UK, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam and the UAE were surveyed. These financial institutions represent a gross total of around USD$33 billion in turnover over the last 12 months, employ approximately 2.4 million staff and have approximately 240 million client / customer / member relationships.

·       As a result of rounding up percentage results, the answers to some questions might not always add up exactly to 100%. Respondents were also able to select more than one answer for some questions.

·       Comparative analysis was made from results of a similar survey run by Finastra in August 2022 which was also conducted online amongst financial institutions and banks across the same markets, except for Saudi Arabia and Vietnam.

·       The research was conducted by Savanta via an online panel (August to September 2023).

Vacheron Constantin Unveils Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon Watches: A Tribute to Art Deco and Arabesque Art – PRWire

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Vacheron Constantin Unveils Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon Watches: A Tribute to Art Deco and Arabesque Art – PRWire
Vacheron Constantin Unveils Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon Watches: A Tribute to Art Deco and Arabesque Art – PRWire

Vacheron Constantin Unveils Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon Watches: A Tribute to Art Deco and Arabesque Art

PRWire: Geneva, Switzerland – Vacheron Constantin, a name synonymous with horological excellence, today announced the launch of two exceptional timepieces: the Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon – Tribute to arabesque and the Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon – Tribute to Art Deco style. These masterpieces are a testament to the Maison’s deep-rooted history and cultural ties, showcasing its commitment to artistic craftsmanship and technical prowess.

“Vacheron Constantin’s journey through time and across continents has always been about celebrating cultural richness and craftsmanship,” said a spokesperson for the Maison. “Our newest creations in the Les Cabinotiers – Récits de Voyages range are not just timepieces; they are narratives of our heritage and artistic explorations.”

The Tribute to arabesque edition draws inspiration from the architectural wonders of the Muslim world, specifically the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. Its intricate engraving, taking three painstaking months to complete, captures the essence of arabesque art’s organic volutes. “This watch is more than an object of precision; it is a canvas where every incision tells a story of architectural marvels,” commented the master engraver.

The Tribute to Art Deco style honors the iconic Chrysler Building in New York. The dial’s wood marquetry, a first for Vacheron Constantin, reflects the grandeur of Art Deco designs. “The creation process involved a meticulous selection of woods and detailed craftsmanship, evoking the spirit of the Roaring Twenties,” noted the marquetry artisan.

Both editions are powered by the in-house Calibre 2755 TMR, featuring a minute repeater and tourbillon regulator – a hallmark of Vacheron Constantin’s technical mastery. “The combination of these complications with unparalleled artistic craftsmanship reflects our Maison’s 270-year legacy of watchmaking excellence,” added the spokesperson.

With their roots in the Maison’s global journey, these timepieces also celebrate Vacheron Constantin’s enduring relationships with cultures and regions around the world, notably the Middle East and New York. From its early interactions with the Ottoman Empire to its establishment in the bustling city of New York, Vacheron Constantin has always embraced the diversity and richness of global cultures.

As heirs to this legacy, the Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon watches are not just timekeepers but storytellers, echoing the Maison’s philosophy of openness and cultural appreciation. These exclusive, single-piece editions are a tribute to the art of travel and the universal language of craftsmanship and beauty.

About Vacheron Constantin: Founded in 1755, Vacheron Constantin is the world’s oldest watch manufacturer in continuous operation. With a rich heritage and commitment to preserving watchmaking artistry, the Maison continues to create timepieces that are both technically superb and artistically inspired.

Vacheron Constantin Unveils Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon Watches: A Tribute to Art Deco and Arabesque Art

theconverser.com
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Vacheron Constantin Unveils Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon Watches: A Tribute to Art Deco and Arabesque Art – PRWire
Vacheron Constantin Unveils Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon Watches: A Tribute to Art Deco and Arabesque Art – PRWire

Vacheron Constantin Unveils Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon Watches: A Tribute to Art Deco and Arabesque Art

PRWire: Geneva, Switzerland – Vacheron Constantin, a name synonymous with horological excellence, today announced the launch of two exceptional timepieces: the Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon – Tribute to arabesque and the Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon – Tribute to Art Deco style. These masterpieces are a testament to the Maison’s deep-rooted history and cultural ties, showcasing its commitment to artistic craftsmanship and technical prowess.

“Vacheron Constantin’s journey through time and across continents has always been about celebrating cultural richness and craftsmanship,” said a spokesperson for the Maison. “Our newest creations in the Les Cabinotiers – Récits de Voyages range are not just timepieces; they are narratives of our heritage and artistic explorations.”

The Tribute to arabesque edition draws inspiration from the architectural wonders of the Muslim world, specifically the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. Its intricate engraving, taking three painstaking months to complete, captures the essence of arabesque art’s organic volutes. “This watch is more than an object of precision; it is a canvas where every incision tells a story of architectural marvels,” commented the master engraver.

The Tribute to Art Deco style honors the iconic Chrysler Building in New York. The dial’s wood marquetry, a first for Vacheron Constantin, reflects the grandeur of Art Deco designs. “The creation process involved a meticulous selection of woods and detailed craftsmanship, evoking the spirit of the Roaring Twenties,” noted the marquetry artisan.

Both editions are powered by the in-house Calibre 2755 TMR, featuring a minute repeater and tourbillon regulator – a hallmark of Vacheron Constantin’s technical mastery. “The combination of these complications with unparalleled artistic craftsmanship reflects our Maison’s 270-year legacy of watchmaking excellence,” added the spokesperson.

With their roots in the Maison’s global journey, these timepieces also celebrate Vacheron Constantin’s enduring relationships with cultures and regions around the world, notably the Middle East and New York. From its early interactions with the Ottoman Empire to its establishment in the bustling city of New York, Vacheron Constantin has always embraced the diversity and richness of global cultures.

As heirs to this legacy, the Les Cabinotiers Minute Repeater Tourbillon watches are not just timekeepers but storytellers, echoing the Maison’s philosophy of openness and cultural appreciation. These exclusive, single-piece editions are a tribute to the art of travel and the universal language of craftsmanship and beauty.

About Vacheron Constantin: Founded in 1755, Vacheron Constantin is the world’s oldest watch manufacturer in continuous operation. With a rich heritage and commitment to preserving watchmaking artistry, the Maison continues to create timepieces that are both technically superb and artistically inspired.

Webex by Cisco Announces AI-Powered Solutions to Empower Contact Center Agent Potential and Reduce Burnout – PRWire

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Webex by Cisco Announces AI-Powered Solutions to Empower Contact Center Agent Potential and Reduce Burnout – PRWire
Webex by Cisco Announces AI-Powered Solutions to Empower Contact Center Agent Potential and Reduce Burnout – PRWire

Webex by Cisco Announces AI-Powered Solutions to Empower Contact Center Agent Potential and Reduce Burnout

News Summary:

  • New AI-powered innovations in Webex Contact Center are focused on promoting agent efficiency and well-being, resulting in reduced turnover, exceptional customer experiences and real business outcomes.
  • New Webex Customer Experience Essentials package extends agent and supervisor functionality to employees outside traditional contact centers for faster resolution of customer needs.
  • Webex and Thrive Global deepen their partnership to solve customer service challenges with Thrive Reset integration into Webex Contact Center.
  • Thrive Reset for Webex Contact Center integrates well-being breaks into contact center agents’ days using real-time insights from Webex, helping agents do their best work and reduce burnout.

Dubai, United Arabic Emirates, 22 November 2023: Stress and burnout are common in the workplace, and even more so within contact center employees. In fact, a study found agent turnover is twice that of any other profession and that burnout causes 50% of agent turnover within contact centers. This costs businesses with 100 agents $4.8M each year on average. To combat this, Webex by Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO), a leading provider of collaboration and contact center technologies powering hybrid work and customer experience, today announced new AI-powered capabilities in Webex Contact Center. These new capabilities aim to help improve agent well-being and productivity, resulting in exceptional customer experiences.

“At Webex, we are embracing agent wellness as a core value to contribute to a more compassionate, inclusive and progressive business culture,” said Jeetu Patel, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Security and Collaboration, Cisco. “Our commitment to nurturing the well-being of agents means that businesses can build a foundation for growth, empower innovation and provide exceptional experiences to their customers.”

Purpose-Built AI in Webex Contact Center Helps Agents and Customers
For over two decades, Webex has provided contact center solutions that power the customer service function of some of the world’s largest customer-centric brands. Within Webex Contact Center, new AI-powered capabilities that aim to improve agent well-being and productivity, while simultaneously improving customer experiences, will include: 

  • AI-powered agent burnout detection allows businesses to proactively address agent well-being by enabling automated breaks, such as a Thrive Reset, and real-time coaching after challenging customer interactions.
  • Suggested responses uses generative AI to automatically suggest responses to increase agent productivity when responding to customer inquiries on digital channels.
  • Conversation summaries and wrap-ups provide agents with a clear summarization of issues and resolutions already explored via self-service and a summary of the call or chat to both the agent and customer once it ends. Agent wrap ups automatically generate wrap up codes and actions following every customer interaction, eliminating an average of five minutes for the agent.
  • Coaching highlights generates a dashboard for supervisors showing highest and lowest customer-rated interactions. It then automatically summarizes the interactions with the best ratings and provides supervisors with coaching tips based on those findings to train fellow employees. Conversely, highlights from the lowest-rated interactions are captured to then coach lower-performing agents to foster improvement across the board.

Introducing Webex Customer Experience Essentials
Great customer experiences are essential for businesses of all sizes. As employees beyond the contact center become increasingly critical to resolve customer needs, organizations are challenged with how to connect these answer-holding employees to the customer experience journey. Also critical is ensuring every interaction is exceptional and personalized. To help solve this, Webex is introducing Webex Customer Experience Essentials to help employees throughout the organization deliver the best possible customer experience. Webex Customer Experience Essentials brings the core fundamental capabilities of the Webex Contact Center to Webex Calling users, enabling:

  • Employees outside the contact center to become specialized agents, leading to faster issue resolution and improved customer satisfaction (removing the potential need for a call back)
  • A better understanding of customer issues that need escalation outside of the contact center
  • A streamlined contextual engagement from back-office employees during issue escalation

Webex Customer Experience Essentials is designed specifically for customer service-oriented industries and is available for purchase for Webex Calling users. 

Integrating Thrive Reset to Empower Contact Center Agents and Reduce Burnout
Webex is expanding its partnership with Thrive Global, the behavior-change technology company founded by Arianna Huffington, to bring Thrive Reset into the agent flow of work, reducing agent attrition and enabling greater agent productivity with Thrive Reset for Webex Contact Center.

Thrive Reset allows agents to break the cycle of cumulative stress and move from the sympathetic to the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing the rush of cortisol through the body. Thrive’s library consists of hundreds of 60-second Reset videos— stretching, breathing, mindfulness and gratitude breaks along with calming visuals, awe-inspiring natural landscapes and the latest stress-relief techniques—each with a guided breathing bubble that helps users inhale, exhale and bring themselves back to center before their next customer interaction. Thrive Global’s partnership with Universal Music Group to license Universal music for Thrive Reset makes them even more engaging, personalized and effective.

Webex and Thrive Global will use insights from real-time AI technology built by Webex to offer agents an opportunity to reflect, recharge and break the cycle of cumulative stress. Once Webex’s AI-based agent burnout analysis detects situations that lead to burnout, the agent is automatically set up for a break and served a 60-second Thrive Reset video to help them reset and relax before their next call. As a result, the next customer in line is handled by an agent who is recharged and better prepared to deliver great service, instead of one coming directly from a stressful experience.

About Cisco 

Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO) is the worldwide technology leader that securely connects everything to make anything possible. Our purpose is to power an inclusive future for all by helping our customers reimagine their applications, power hybrid work, secure their enterprise, transform their infrastructure, and meet their sustainability goals.  Discover more on The Newsroom and follow us on X at @Cisco.  

Cisco and the Cisco logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Cisco and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and other countries. A listing of Cisco’s trademarks can be found at www.cisco.com/go/trademarks. Third-party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners. The use of the word partner does not imply a partnership relationship between Cisco and any other company.    

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