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. 'Tis the season to get scrolling

As the festive season kicks off, shoppers worldwide are eagerly hunting for deals despite low consumer confidence. EY research shows 69% plan to dive into this year's deals, with a third spending more than last year. Have you started your holiday shopping yet? Interestingly, 52% are waiting for better deals later in the season, and 67% are closely watching offers, rising to 73% for parents. Social media platforms are the new way to window shop. Shoppers are using various channels and tech to find the best bargains. Social media shopping is booming, especially in China, where 50% plan to shop via platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. This trend is spreading globally, with brands using livestreams to make shopping more interactive, mimicking the in-store experience. Shoppers are now focusing on price over product, with deals and promotions being the key factor in choosing where to shop…  

Why consumers are wise to holiday sales and tracking more lasting value 

2. Shifting gears

When it comes to buying or driving a car, today’s customers expect a smooth ride from start to finish—and that’s especially true for Millennials and Gen Z. By 2025, these two generations will make up 45% of car buyers, and their expectations are shifting gears. So, how do you keep them cruising along with your brand? It all starts with a seamless, digital-first experience. Think easy online booking, the ability to purchase a car with a few clicks, and a smooth transition between digital and in-person touchpoints. Personalize their journey with data, offer real-time updates during car maintenance, and make them feel involved in the process, like letting them have a say in building their ideal car. It’s about more than just making a sale — it’s about creating an emotional connection that keeps them coming back, long after the deal is done.

Car consumers want a better experience. How can manufacturers create it? 

3. Ladder to success

Successful companies have strong deal oversight with multiple leaders involved, structured integration processes for smoother transitions, and thoughtful KPIs that track a variety of performance metrics beyond just financials. The EY-Parthenon Technology Corporate Development Survey highlights seven key traits that help companies succeed in mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Extended accountability, where teams manage the entire deal process from start to finish, proves to be most effective. Despite current market challenges, nearly a third of tech executives plan to engage in M&A within the next year. By adopting these seven traits, tech companies can improve their chances of successful deals and drive growth... 

How to be a savvy technology M&A dealmaker 

4. Green goals

India is playing a crucial role in the global energy transition with its ambitious renewable energy goals, green hydrogen strategy, and climate action plan. The country aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2070 and have 50% of its electricity come from non-fossil sources by 2030. Currently, India ranks fourth globally in renewable energy capacity, thanks to a significant growth rate in solar energy. To support these efforts, India has raised substantial funds through sovereign green bonds and green deposits and has mandated ESG disclosures for its top companies. Investments in electric vehicles, solar rooftops, and battery energy storage systems highlight India's commitment to sustainable technologies. Despite market challenges, India’s fast-growing economy is making impressive strides in new energy sectors, aiming to become a developed nation by 2047. 

Powering the future: India's role in global energy transition  

5. Priceless minds

Imagine a world where most of the content we consume is created by AI, with human-made content becoming a premium service. This future isn't as sci-fi as it sounds. As AI-generated content becomes the norm and companies jump on the AI bandwagon, some consumers are already craving that "human touch." However, as large language models (LLMs) become more widespread, the need to tag AI-generated content might fade, much like how Google became an accepted tool over time. Companies should clearly disclose AI involvement, whether through statements, visual cues, or even giving AI a persona. As AI evolves, transparency and educating consumers will be key to building trust and preserving the heart and soul in our digital lives. 

Putting a premium on human intelligence  

If you do one thing: 

Tell us how you are going to shape the future with confidence in 2025... comments below, you know what to do. 

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