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Month: May 2025

Technology

IBM Embraces AI to Reshape Workforce Dynamics

Observenow Desk May 12, 2025

IBM has recently undertaken a significant transformation in its workforce strategy by integrating artificial intelligence into its operations. According to CEO Arvind Krishna, the company has replaced several hundred human resources positions with AI agents capable of autonomously performing tasks such as analyzing spreadsheets, conducting research, and drafting emails. 

This move is part of IBM’s broader initiative to enhance productivity through AI and automation. Despite the reduction in HR roles, IBM’s overall employment has increased, as the company has redirected resources to expand hiring in areas like programming, sales, and marketing—functions that require critical thinking and human interaction. 

The integration of AI agents into IBM’s workflow reflects a growing trend in the tech industry, where companies leverage AI to handle routine tasks, thereby allowing human employees to focus on more complex responsibilities. This approach not only streamlines operations but also creates opportunities for employees to engage in higher-value work.

IBM’s commitment to AI extends beyond internal operations. The company has launched services enabling businesses to develop and manage their own AI agents, facilitating interoperability with third-party AI tools and cloud services. This initiative aligns with IBM’s strategy to support clients in their digital transformation journeys. 

Financially, IBM has secured $6 billion in AI-related consulting contracts, underscoring the growing demand for AI solutions in the enterprise sector. The company plans to invest $150 billion in the U.S. over the next five years, focusing on areas such as AI research and development. 

While the adoption of AI has led to workforce changes, IBM’s experience illustrates that technology can be a catalyst for job creation in new domains. By embracing AI, the company is not only enhancing efficiency but also fostering innovation and growth in emerging fields.

Tags: Arvind KrishnaIBM

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Education

Autodesk Partners with Aston University to Enhance Student Innovation

Observenow Desk

Aston University has entered into a strategic partnership with Autodesk, a leading provider of design and engineering software, to provide students and staff with access to Autodesk’s industry-standard ‘Design and Make’ software suite. This collaboration aims to integrate cutting-edge technology into the university’s curriculum, enhancing the practical skills and employability of its graduates.

Starting from September 2025, Autodesk’s software will be embedded into the new engineering and physical sciences curriculum at Aston University. This initiative is designed to prepare students for careers in various sectors, including architecture, engineering, construction, product design, manufacturing, media, and entertainment. By incorporating real-world tools into academic programs, the university seeks to bridge the gap between education and industry requirements.

The partnership with Autodesk complements Aston University’s existing collaborations with Adobe Creative Campus and Design Factory Birmingham. Together, these alliances form an integrated design and innovation network, making Aston the first university in the UK to establish such a comprehensive ecosystem. This network is poised to provide students with a holistic educational experience, combining creativity, design thinking, and practical application.

Mary Hope McQuiston, Vice President at Autodesk Education Experiences, emphasized the importance of equipping students with the tools and experiences necessary for the evolving job market. She stated, “Aston University shares our belief that today’s students are tomorrow’s innovators, and they need access to the right tools and real-world experiences to thrive in their future jobs.” This collaboration is expected to foster a digitally fluent and globally connected workforce.

To support the effective implementation of the software, Autodesk will launch a student ambassador program at Aston University. Eight student ambassadors will serve as liaisons and advocates for the software on campus, assisting their peers in maximizing the benefits of the technology. This initiative will impact approximately 5,000 students within the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences.

Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Aston University, highlighted the significance of the partnership in providing an industry-embedded education. He remarked, “Our collaboration with Autodesk illustrates how Aston University provides an industry-embedded education by giving our students the experience of a 21st-century work environment.” This approach aligns with the university’s 2030 strategy to be inclusive, entrepreneurial, and transformational.

Dr. Timothy Whitehead, Head of the Department of Design, Technology, and Innovation, noted that the availability of Autodesk‘s tools to all students, regardless of discipline, will empower them to bring their ideas to life. He stated, “Autodesk will give all students and staff the power to make just about anything.” The integration of 3D modeling and visualization into teaching labs is expected to enhance digital fluency across the student body.

This partnership addresses the growing demand for skilled talent in various industries. According to Autodesk’s 2025 Design & Make report, 57% of business leaders cite limited access to skilled talent as a key barrier to business growth. By providing students with hands-on experience using industry-standard tools, Aston University aims to produce graduates who are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the modern workplace.

Tags: Aston UniversityAutodesk

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Education

Personal Finance Emerges as the New Must Have Skill for Students

Observenow Desk

In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on integrating personal finance education into high school curricula. This shift aims to equip students with essential financial skills, preparing them for the complexities of adult life.

Educators have recognized that financial literacy is crucial for all students, regardless of their socioeconomic backgrounds. Interactive teaching methods, such as budgeting exercises and simulations of unexpected expenses, are employed to engage students and impart practical knowledge. These approaches help students understand the real-world implications of financial decisions, fostering responsible money management habits from a young age.

Programs like Next Gen Personal Finance have been instrumental in promoting financial education nationwide. NGPF provides resources and curricula designed to make personal finance accessible and engaging for high school students. By partnering with schools, they aim to ensure that financial literacy becomes a standard component of secondary education.

The importance of such education is underscored by the fact that even in a country with advanced financial markets, many adults lack basic financial knowledge. This gap can lead to challenges such as poor budgeting, inadequate savings, and vulnerability to financial scams. By introducing financial concepts early, schools hope to mitigate these issues and promote long-term financial well-being among future generations. Moreover, the prevalence of financial advice on social media platforms has raised concerns. Students are often exposed to misleading or risky financial schemes online. Through formal education, they can develop critical thinking skills to assess the credibility of such information and make informed decisions.

In conclusion, the integration of personal finance education in high schools represents a proactive approach to preparing students for the financial responsibilities of adulthood. By fostering financial literacy early on, educators aim to empower students to navigate the economic challenges of the modern world confidently.

Tags: Educationfinance educationNext Gen Personal Finance

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India’s defence sector advances from homegrown innovations

Observenow Desk

India’s advancements across various sectors, mainly defence, lays a strategic emphasis on technology and innovation, aligning with its vision of self-reliance and global leadership in military capabilities. This transformation is evident in various initiatives and developments across the country’s defense landscape.

One significant stride is the establishment of Centers of Excellence dedicated to advancing defense technology. These CoEs serve as hubs for innovation, fostering collaboration between the government, industry, and academia to develop indigenous solutions. By promoting homegrown advancements, India aims to reduce dependence on foreign technology and ensure strategic autonomy in critical defense systems.

The Defense Research and Development Organization plays a pivotal role in this technological evolution. DRDO has been instrumental in developing advanced systems such as directed-energy weapons, anti-drone technologies, and hypersonic missiles. These innovations not only bolster India’s defense capabilities but also position the nation as a formidable force on the global stage. Artificial Intelligence is another area where India is making significant investments. The establishment of the Defense Artificial Intelligence Council and the Defense AI Project Agency underscores the country’s commitment to integrating AI into defense operations. These bodies provide structural support and guidance, enabling AI-based processes in defense organizations. 

Collaboration with academic institutions further strengthens India’s defense innovation ecosystem. For instance, the partnership between IIT Kanpur and the Indian Army focuses on developing UAV training and simulation technologies. Such collaborations harness academic expertise to address operational challenges and define solutions to critical military problems. India’s emphasis on indigenous technology is also evident in its defense manufacturing sector. The country’s domestic defense manufacturing value is projected to exceed ₹1.25 trillion, with defense exports surpassing ₹210 billion by the end of the fiscal year. Events like Aero India showcase India’s growing role in international defense collaboration, attracting participation from over 150 foreign companies and representatives from approximately 30 countries.

Furthermore, India’s focus on dual-use technologies ensures that advancements in defense also benefit civilian sectors. Innovations in military medical care, for instance, not only enhance readiness and effectiveness in military services but also contribute to the broader healthcare system.

In conclusion, India’s defense strength is increasingly rooted in technology and innovation. Through strategic investments, collaborative initiatives, and a focus on indigenous development, the country is building a robust and self-reliant defense ecosystem. These efforts not only enhance national security but also position India as a leader in global defense innovation.

Tags: artificial intelligencedefence sectorIndian Armynational security

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Operation Sindoor: A strategic push to drive India’s precision and technology

Observenow Desk

In the early hours of May 7, 2025, India launched Operation Sindoor, a meticulously planned military offensive targeting nine terrorist camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). This operation marks a significant evolution in India’s counter-terrorism strategy, emphasizing precision, technological sophistication, and strategic depth.

Unlike previous responses such as the Uri (2016) and Balakot (2019) strikes, which were swift and targeted, Operation Sindoor represents a multi-domain offensive involving coordinated efforts from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The operation was a direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians. 

A standout feature of Operation Sindoor was the Indian Air Force’s precision strike on Bahawalpur, targeting the Pakistan Army’s 31 Corps Headquarters. This facility was not only a military installation but also a hub for terrorist activities. The use of Rafale jets equipped with SCALP and HAMMER missiles demonstrated India’s enhanced long-range strike capabilities. These strikes were guided by real-time GPS and drone-based targeting, ensuring surgical precision with minimal collateral damage.

Among the nine terror camps destroyed, the Lashkar-e-Taiba facility in Muridke, where 26/11 attackers Ajmal Kasab and David Headley were trained, was a notable target. This underscores India’s commitment to dismantling long-standing terror infrastructures. Operation Sindoor also showcased India’s advanced air defense capabilities. In response to Pakistan’s attempted drone and missile attacks on Indian military installations, the Indian Armed Forces successfully neutralized these threats using the Integrated Counter-UAS Grid and Air Defence systems. 

The operation’s execution was closely monitored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who praised the armed forces for their precision and professionalism. The mission was carried out without harming any civilians, highlighting India’s commitment to ethical military conduct. Internationally, Operation Sindoor garnered support from various nations. Countries like the United Kingdom, Russia, Israel, and members of the European Union acknowledged India’s right to self-defense and condemned terrorism in all forms. 

In essence, Operation Sindoor signifies a paradigm shift in India’s approach to counter-terrorism. By integrating advanced technology, precise intelligence, and strategic coordination, India has demonstrated its capability and resolve to address cross-border terrorism effectively.

Tags: Jammu and KashmirOperation SindoorPahalgamPrime Minister Narendra Modi

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BFSI

Fintech 2.0 Signals a New Era in Financial Services

Observenow Desk May 11, 2025

The financial industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the evolution of fintech companies from niche startups to formidable competitors of traditional banks. This shift, often referred to as “Fintech 2.0,” is compelling banks to adapt swiftly or risk obsolescence.

Initially, fintech firms focused on specific services like peer-to-peer payments, capitalizing on digital platforms to offer cost-effective and user-friendly alternatives to conventional banking. Over time, these companies have expanded their offerings to include a comprehensive suite of financial services, such as deposit accounts, lending, brokerage, and even institutional-grade solutions. A prime example is Nubank, which started as a consumer credit card provider in Brazil and has grown into one of the world’s largest digital financial services platforms, serving over 90 million customers across Latin America. Similarly, Revolut reported over $1 billion in revenue in 2023, marking a 45% year-over-year increase, and has diversified into crypto, business banking, and wealth management.

These fintechs leverage their digital-first approach and advanced technologies like blockchain to innovate rapidly and expand their offerings. Their agility and customer-centric models enable them to capture market share and challenge traditional financial institutions effectively. For banks, the imperative is clear: adapt to the changing landscape by embracing digital transformation and integrating emerging technologies. This includes developing robust digital platforms, enhancing customer experiences, and exploring partnerships with fintech firms to stay competitive.

The rise of Fintech 2.0 signifies a new era in financial services, where innovation and adaptability are crucial for survival and success. Banks that recognize and respond to these changes proactively will be better positioned to thrive in the evolving financial ecosystem.

Tags: financial ecosystemFintech 2.0

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BFSI

Deepfakes to Data Breaches: How Cyber Threats are Challenging Indian Finance

Observenow Desk May 10, 2025

India’s financial sector is witnessing an alarming surge in cyber threats, driven by rapid digitalization and the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals. As digital transactions become ubiquitous, the sector faces challenges ranging from deepfake scams to ransomware attacks, prompting urgent calls for enhanced cybersecurity measures.

In the fiscal year 2024, cyber fraud incidents in banking transactions escalated dramatically. According to data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the number of cyber fraud cases rose from 75,800 in FY2023 to 292,800 in FY2024, with financial losses increasing from ₹421.4 crore to ₹2,054.6 crore during the same period. The methods employed by cybercriminals have evolved, leveraging advanced technologies to deceive victims. Deepfake technology, for instance, has been used to clone voices and create fraudulent scenarios, leading to significant financial losses. In response, the Indian government has urged banks and fintech companies to incorporate cyber risk assessments into their stress testing frameworks to better prepare for such threats.

The RBI has also taken proactive steps to combat phishing and fraudulent websites by introducing mandatory domain names for banks and non-banking financial companies. Under this initiative, banks are required to use the ‘bank.in’ domain, while NBFCs must adopt the ‘fin.in’ domain, aiming to reduce phishing attacks and enhance customer trust in official banking websites. To bolster cybersecurity infrastructure, the Indian government nearly doubled its cybersecurity budget from ₹400 crore in 2023-2024 to ₹759 crore in 2024-2025. This increase underscores the growing recognition of the need for robust cybersecurity measures across sectors.

In the private sector, companies like Google have launched initiatives such as DigiKavach, an online fraud identification program designed to prevent online financial fraud in India. DigiKavach collaborates with organizations like the Fintech Association for Consumer Empowerment (FACE) and the Cyberpeace Foundation to build awareness about digital literacy and online safety.

Despite these efforts, challenges persist. A report by the Boston Consulting Group highlighted that Indian banks spend significantly less on cybersecurity compared to their global counterparts, investing about one-ninth of what is seen at global banks. This disparity raises concerns about the preparedness of Indian financial institutions to handle the increasing cyber threats.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the Global Fintech Fest, emphasized the urgency of combating cyber fraud to safeguard India’s fintech growth. He announced the formation of a ₹1 lakh crore fund aimed at fostering research and development in the country, highlighting the importance of robust cybersecurity systems in the digital age.

As cyber threats continue to evolve, India’s financial sector must prioritize cybersecurity investments, adopt advanced technologies like AI and machine learning for threat detection, and foster collaborations between government and private entities to build a resilient digital financial ecosystem.

Tags: cyber threatscybersecurityDeepfakes

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Trending

Tuhina Pandey Appointed as Head of Communications for IBM Asia Pacific

Observenow Desk May 9, 2025

IBM has announced the elevation of Tuhina Pandey to the role of Head of Communications for the Asia Pacific region. In this expanded capacity, she will oversee the company’s communications strategy across multiple markets, including India, South Asia, and the broader APAC region.

Tuhina’s journey with IBM began in April 2020 when she joined as the Head of Communications for India and South Asia. Her impactful leadership and strategic vision led to her promotion as Director of Marketing & Communications in January 2023, where she also took on the role of Chief Marketing Officer for IBM India and South Asia. In these roles, she was instrumental in driving integrated initiatives that supported business growth and enhanced the brand’s reputation in a rapidly evolving market.

Before her tenure at IBM, Tuhina held the position of Head of Global Corporate Communications & Public Affairs at Tech Mahindra. Her career also includes significant roles such as Vice President at Ananto and Media Training Worldwide, as well as serving as Associate Editor for technology at NDTV Profit. With over 17 years of experience spanning journalism, corporate communications, and marketing, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role.

Tuhina’s contributions to the industry have been widely recognized. She was featured among the E4M Public Relations & Corporate Communications Top 100 Influential Game Changers in 2023 and was honored as a Visionary CMO by CNBC TV18 Storyboard the same year.

In her new role as Head of Communications for IBM Asia Pacific, Tuhina is poised to leverage her extensive experience to further strengthen IBM’s brand presence and communication strategies across the region.

Tags: IBMTuhina Pandey

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Technology

Salesforce Empowers Sales Teams with AI Tools to Enhance Client Engagement

Observenow Desk

Salesforce is equipping its sales representatives with advanced artificial intelligence tools to streamline client interactions and improve meeting preparedness. These innovations are designed to assist sellers in efficiently gathering client information, receiving real-time guidance, and automating routine tasks, thereby enhancing the overall sales process.

One such tool, Agentforce AI, has become integral for sales professionals like Haley Gault. Faced with a sudden meeting request from a client in the electric vehicle charging sector, a field she was unfamiliar with, Gault utilized Agentforce AI within Slack to quickly access a comprehensive dossier. This included previous sales data, call recordings, and relevant industry trends, enabling her to engage confidently with the client.

Salesforce’s suite of AI tools, including Sales Coach, offers real-time advice and simulates negotiation techniques, assisting sellers in preparing for client meetings. These tools aim to reduce the time spent on administrative tasks, allowing sales representatives to focus more on building relationships and understanding client needs. Executives at Salesforce emphasize that the integration of AI is intended to support, not replace, the human elements essential to sales. The technology serves as an aid in handling unstructured tasks while maintaining personal connections with clients. Experts, including Columbia professor Michael Brown and Gartner analyst Dan Gottlieb, concur that successful AI implementation hinges on enhancing the seller’s ability to engage authentically with clients.

With a sales force of approximately 25,000, Salesforce is embedding these AI tools seamlessly into daily workflows. The goal is to enable sellers to respond efficiently and authentically during customer interactions, leveraging AI to provide insights and automate routine processes. As AI becomes more prevalent in sales operations, awareness and accessibility remain crucial to ensure that these technologies enhance productivity without compromising the personal touch that is vital in client relationships.

Salesforce‘s commitment to integrating AI into its sales processes reflects a broader trend in the industry, where companies are increasingly adopting technology to augment human capabilities and improve customer engagement.

Tags: AI ToolsSalesforce

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Digital Native

Microsoft Azure Records Strong Q1 Growth Amid Rising Demand for AI Cloud Services

Observenow Desk

Microsoft Azure reported notable growth in the first quarter of 2025, reflecting the rising enterprise demand for cloud services powered by artificial intelligence. Azure’s year-over-year revenue increased by 35%, signaling ongoing momentum in Microsoft’s cloud business as organizations continue to scale digital operations and integrate advanced analytics tools. The growth comes as Microsoft continues to invest in expanding its AI capabilities across its cloud infrastructure. Services like Azure OpenAI and Microsoft 365 Copilot have seen growing adoption, particularly among enterprise customers looking to automate workflows and improve operational efficiency. These offerings allow clients to integrate generative AI and machine learning into core business functions, from data analysis to customer service.

In its latest earnings report, Microsoft posted total revenue of over $70 billion, with net income reaching $25.8 billion. The company credited strong performance in its cloud division, particularly Azure, as a key driver of overall growth. Demand for intelligent cloud solutions and integrated productivity tools contributed to this uptick, underscoring the growing reliance on cloud-based platforms that incorporate AI.

Meanwhile, other major cloud providers, including Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud, also reported steady revenue growth. AWS saw a 17% year-over-year increase, continuing to hold a significant share of the global cloud market. Google Cloud reported 28% growth, supported by its own investments in AI and data analytics services. These figures highlight sustained industry-wide demand for cloud computing across sectors such as finance, healthcare, and manufacturing.

Industry analysts note that Microsoft’s approach pairing enterprise AI services with scalable cloud infrastructure is gaining traction. Many organizations are turning to cloud platforms not only for storage and computing power, but also for integrated tools that help streamline operations and decision-making. Microsoft’s AI offerings are particularly appealing to businesses seeking pre-trained models and development tools they can use out of the box. Azure’s product ecosystem continues to grow, with capabilities that appeal to both developers and large enterprises. The cloud platform supports hybrid deployments and offers a broad range of AI services through its partnerships and in-house innovation. Microsoft’s emphasis on security, compliance, and open-source collaboration is also seen as a factor contributing to its growth trajectory.

While the cloud computing market remains competitive, Microsoft’s continued emphasis on AI integration positions it to meet evolving customer demands. Cloud providers are expected to keep investing heavily in AI, automation, and edge computing as part of their long-term strategies.

With growing interest in generative AI and data-intensive applications, cloud adoption is poised to accelerate further in the coming quarters. Microsoft Azure’s current momentum suggests it will remain a key player in shaping the future of enterprise cloud computing.

Tags: artificial intelligenceMicrosoftMicrosoft Azure

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