Latest news with #ROI
Fast Company
an hour ago
- Business
- Fast Company
A focus on sustainability's return on investment
For the past year, I've had the opportunity to apply my experience in sector diversified financial services, sustainability, and operational leadership at RE Tech Advisors. I oversee a suite of solutions and services allowing real estate portfolio managers/owners a pathway to integrate and communicate their sustainability efforts. What I've seen in this sector aligns with many other sectors I've worked with. ROI is the predominant motivation for action—short-term ROI via operational cost efficiencies and revenue attraction, and long-term ROI setting up operational resilience in a changing environment. The ROI focus applies to both traditional initiative and sustainability initiative decisions. The line begins to blur when key sustainability initiatives are considered as key operational efforts, the same way as traditional ROI. This is how RE Tech Advisors helps real estate owners find key ROI initiatives with strategic action plans to manage risks and optimize performance. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) Whether you are creating an action plan to reduce your GHG footprint to comply with building performance standards policies, or you're developing a proactive decarbonization action plan to reduce a building's carbon footprint, these can significantly reduce costs: Reduce energy consumption costs: Implementing high efficiency HVAC, better insulation, and smart system integrations such as smart lighting, can reduce energy cost estimates by 30% to 50% in new and existing buildings. Identify operational inefficiencies: Through real-time data analysis and continuous performance monitoring, building managers can adjust or replace systems to improve efficiency based on actual usage energy and water usage patterns. Reduce maintenance costs: Increase energy efficiency and conduct proactive maintenance to realize cost savings through reduced emergency repairs and extending building components' lifespans. Avoid noncompliance fines: Fine amounts varies by jurisdiction, but penalties for policy noncompliance can be a significant expense, based on location and building size. Tax incentives and green financing: Decarbonization roadmaps can unlock millions in funding from programs such as NYSERDA and Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's Green Financing program. Physical risk management Physical risk management plans help mitigate potential physical building damage from sporadic weather events such as floods, hurricanes, and tsunamis, plus increasing temperature severity and climate pattern changes. Action plans can include installing flood barriers, storm shutters, upgraded drainage systems, impact-resistant windows, reinforced roofs, and elevated foundations. These investments can lead to short-term cost savings, better resilience, and longer-term ROI. Recognized benefits include: Lower insurance premiums: Most insurance companies now integrate physical climate risk scenarios in stress test modelling to calculate premiums accounting for potential risk of future loss. This increasingly influences insurance premiums. Lower costs from severe weather damage: According to from 2020-2024, the cost of climate-related damage in the U.S. was $746.7 billion; the annual average exceeded $149 billion. This financial impact is more than double the annual average of $64.8 billion from 1980 to 2024. Build to higher standards: A study by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce showed that for every $1 invested in disaster preparation, communities save $13 in economic costs, damages, and cleanup. One example showed, '$83 million of investments in resilience and preparedness for a serious tornado hitting Nashville would save more than 5,300 jobs. The amount of production and income saved would be more than $683 million and $464 million, respectively.' An S&P Global Sustainable1 report found that companies could face physical climate costs of up to 28% of the asset value annually without mitigation efforts. Supply chain risk mitigation: Building more resilient supply chain operations and avoiding disruptions from physical building damage and labor interruptions can lead to longer-term ROI. These risks pertain to both U.S. and off-shored supply chain facilities. Transition risk management Climate change and its associated risks continue leading to longer term economic changes. These bring transitionary risks that are important to consider to avoid higher resource and material costs. Through transition risk management, real estate owners can position themselves for: Less exposure to energy supply volatility pricing: Through decreased energy consumption or using alternative sources. Resource scarcity: Can lead to increasing costs and lack of availability of land, water, timber, and steel. Improved capital and lending rates: Rates may consider transition climate risks in risk analysis, or provide green financing with lower rates. Stranded assets: Avoid real estate assets that can be devalued by not appropriately mitigating transition risks. These stranded assets may not be aligned with building energy performance standards such as New York's Local Law 97. Noncompliant buildings could see value reductions of 10–20% due to penalties and retrofit costs. Furthermore, a First Street study suggests that a $1.4 trillion devaluation will occur across real estate assets over 30 years if they fail to meet decarbonization pathways. Communication is key In creating strategies for cost efficiencies and resilience, the owner's ultimate desire is to create a portfolio of attractive assets that are optimal operationally to gain short-term and long-term ROI. It is vitally important to communicate how the company is pursuing these cost saving and resilience initiatives to appropriate stakeholders including investors, banks, employees, operators/tenants, and communities, to help each stakeholder understand the assets' value. Key ways to drive this communication include: Green building certifications: These include LEED, BREEAM, and IREM certifications, which provide stakeholders with independent validation of key energy and carbon management initiatives. Investor reporting frameworks: GRESB and UNPRI provide investors a detailed look at initiatives being pursued, along with gaps, allowing them to benchmark and compare them to peers. Corporate social responsibility reports: These tell stakeholders, such as employees and tenants, about the sustainability efforts being addressed, offering better transparency. Last thoughts Many are pursing the ultimate goal of creating an environment that allows us and future generations to prosper and thrive. Looking at initiatives under the return on investment lens offers a sustainable pathway to meet people where they're at, speak a language they can connect to, and invite them to join the journey leading to a more sustainable economy and world. I look forward to continuing the discourse on how sustainability initiatives can best help drive for cost efficiencies and resilience so that these initiatives move from being an overlay to being deeply integrated into operational excellence.
Zawya
18 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
CAIOs key to AI success: Up to 36% higher ROI on AI spend, finds IBM-Dubai Future Foundation study
33% of UAE organizations have appointed Chief AI Officers, compared to 26% globally, demonstrating strong AI leadership commitment. Foreword by H.E. Omar Sultan Al Olama underscores AI's role as a force multiplier for nations and how the Chief AI Officer is a translator between vision and execution. Dubai, United Arab Emirates – A new global study by the IBM Institute for Business Value (IBV), conducted in collaboration with the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), finds that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is leading a global shift toward appointing Chief AI Officers (CAIOs) to drive enterprise-wide AI strategy and execution. According to the global study* of more than 600 CAIOs across 22 countries and 21 industries, more UAE organizations are appointing a CAIO role than global peers: 33% of surveyed organizations in UAE have a CAIO, compared to 26% globally. The impact is clear: globally organizations with a CAIO see a 10% higher return on investment (ROI) on AI spend, and those where CAIOs drive a centralized or hub-and-spoke AI operating model can realize a 36% higher ROI on AI initiatives. The report opens with a foreword by His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, where he writes: 'AI is not a singular breakthrough, it's ten thousand small shifts. It's cultural. It's institutional. It's a habit. The CAIO will be the one pushing that habit forward – across public administration, healthcare, education and logistics. More than a technologist, the CAIO is a translator between vision and execution, a bridge between strategy and science, and a steward of value across the enterprise.' The report also includes perspectives from other leading UAE entities such as Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Customs, providing a multi-sector view on AI leadership. 'Dubai's early adoption of the Chief AI Officer role reflects our national commitment to a responsible, future-ready government,' said Saeed Al Falasi, Director of the Dubai Center for Artificial Intelligence. 'This study reinforces that CAIOs are strategic enablers and catalysts that drive the city's vision for the future. By empowering these leaders with the right tools, we are setting the stage for scalable, measurable AI impact across key sectors in Dubai.' 'The UAE is setting a global benchmark by embedding Chief AI Officers within organizations, ensuring AI is a strategic enabler across sectors. This is a testament to the nation's foresight in shaping a future-ready economy.' said Shukri Eid, VP and GM, IBM Gulf, Levant and Pakistan. 'As we continue our collaboration with the Dubai Future Foundation, IBM remains committed to helping organizations scale their AI capabilities to drive measurable, long-term impact.' 'By appointing CAIOs early and giving them visibility and budget control, UAE organizations have laid a strong foundation for enterprise AI,' said Lula Mohanty, Managing Partner, Middle East and Africa, IBM Consulting. 'The next step is execution, moving beyond pilots, embedding AI into core business functions and delivering measurable ROI. IBM is proud to partner with UAE clients on this next phase of their AI journey.' UAE CAIOs benefit from stronger leadership support CAIOs in the UAE are more likely than their global peers to have direct backing from senior leadership: 90% of UAE CAIOs say they get sufficient CEO support compared to 80% globally. 86% of UAE CAIOs say they have broader C-suite support, versus 79% globally. 69% of UAE CAIOs were appointed internally, compared to 57% globally, reflecting a commitment to developing AI leadership from within. CAIO roles in the UAE come with broader mandates and implementation responsibilities UAE CAIOs are playing a central role in driving AI strategy and implementation: 79% of UAE CAIOs control their organization's AI budget, compared to 61% globally. 62% of UAE CAIOs prioritize building business cases for AI, compared to 45% globally. 50% of UAE CAIOs list direct AI implementation as a primary responsibility, in line with 48% globally, though 38 % of UAE CAIOs find implementation very difficult, compared to 30 % globally. Career backgrounds of UAE CAIOs reflect a focus on data and operations UAE CAIOs bring a mix of technical and operational expertise to their roles: 69% of UAE CAIOs have a career background in data, similar to 73% globally. 48% of UAE CAIOs have focused on operations, compared to 38% globally, suggesting a pragmatic, execution-focused leadership profile. AI measurement matters, but action won't wait UAE CAIOs recognize the value of measuring AI outcomes, while maintaining momentum by experimenting and innovating even without perfect metrics: 76% of UAE CAIOs say their organizations risk falling behind without AI impact measurement compared to 72% globally 74% of UAE CAIOs agree they initiate AI projects even if they can't measure their effects compared to 68% globally AI adoption maturity highlights room for growth While UAE organizations have made significant leadership investments, many remain in early phases of AI deployment: 76% of UAE organizations are still at pilot stages with limited deployment, compared to 60% globally. For more information and to access the full study, visit: *Study Methodology The IBM Institute for Business Value (IBM IBV), in cooperation with Oxford Economics and The Dubai Future Foundation conducted a global survey in the first quarter of 2025 to examine the emerging role of CAIOs. The study employed a cross-sectional survey design, collecting responses from 600+ CAIOs or equivalent across 21 industries and 22 countries. The survey examined the role, responsibilities, and challenges faced by CAIOs across organizations, covering the origins of the position, career backgrounds, perceptions of influence and challenges, team structure, and key responsibilities. It also assessed AI initiative performance, impact measurement, organizational strengths in AI governance, and areas for improvement. The IBM IBV and IBM's thought leadership think tank, combines global research and performance data with expertise from industry thinkers and leading academics to deliver insights that make business leaders smarter. For more world-class thought leadership, visit: To receive more insights, subscribe to the IdeaWatch newsletter: About IBM IBM is a leading provider of global hybrid cloud and AI, and consulting expertise. We help clients in more than 175 countries capitalize on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs and gain the competitive edge in their industries. Thousands of governments and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on IBM's hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to affect their digital transformations quickly, efficiently and securely. IBM's breakthrough innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and consulting deliver open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM's long-standing commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity and service. Visit for more information. Media Contact: Sherry Italia IBM Communications
Al Bawaba
19 hours ago
- Business
- Al Bawaba
CAIOs Key to AI Success: Up to 36% Higher ROI on AI spend, Finds IBM-Dubai Future Foundation Study
A new global study by the IBM Institute for Business Value (IBV), conducted in collaboration with the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), finds that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is leading a global shift toward appointing Chief AI Officers (CAIOs) to drive enterprise-wide AI strategy and to the global study* of more than 600 CAIOs across 22 countries and 21 industries, more UAE organizations are appointing a CAIO role than global peers: 33% of surveyed organizations in UAE have a CAIO, compared to 26% globally. The impact is clear: globally organizations with a CAIO see a 10% higher return on investment (ROI) on AI spend, and those where CAIOs drive a centralized or hub-and-spoke AI operating model can realize a 36% higher ROI on AI report opens with a foreword by His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, where he writes: 'AI is not a singular breakthrough, it's ten thousand small shifts. It's cultural. It's institutional. It's a habit. The CAIO will be the one pushing that habit forward – across public administration, healthcare, education and logistics. More than a technologist, the CAIO is a translator between vision and execution, a bridge between strategy and science, and a steward of value across the enterprise.'The report also includes perspectives from other leading UAE entities such as Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Customs, providing a multi-sector view on AI leadership. 'Dubai's early adoption of the Chief AI Officer role reflects our national commitment to a responsible, future-ready government,' said Saeed Al Falasi, Director of the Dubai Center for Artificial Intelligence. 'This study reinforces that CAIOs are strategic enablers and catalysts that drive the city's vision for the future. By empowering these leaders with the right tools, we are setting the stage for scalable, measurable AI impact across key sectors in Dubai.' 'The UAE is setting a global benchmark by embedding Chief AI Officers within organizations, ensuring AI is a strategic enabler across sectors. This is a testament to the nation's foresight in shaping a future-ready economy.' said Shukri Eid, VP and GM, IBM Gulf, Levant and Pakistan. 'As we continue our collaboration with the Dubai Future Foundation, IBM remains committed to helping organizations scale their AI capabilities to drive measurable, long-term impact.' 'By appointing CAIOs early and giving them visibility and budget control, UAE organizations have laid a strong foundation for enterprise AI,' said Lula Mohanty, Managing Partner, Middle East and Africa, IBM Consulting. 'The next step is execution, moving beyond pilots, embedding AI into core business functions and delivering measurable ROI. IBM is proud to partner with UAE clients on this next phase of their AI journey.'UAE CAIOs benefit from stronger leadership supportCAIOs in the UAE are more likely than their global peers to have direct backing from senior leadership:• 90% of UAE CAIOs say they get sufficient CEO support compared to 80% globally.• 86% of UAE CAIOs say they have broader C-suite support, versus 79% globally.• 69% of UAE CAIOs were appointed internally, compared to 57% globally, reflecting a commitment to developing AI leadership from roles in the UAE come with broader mandates and implementation responsibilitiesUAE CAIOs are playing a central role in driving AI strategy and implementation:• 79% of UAE CAIOs control their organization's AI budget, compared to 61% globally.• 62% of UAE CAIOs prioritize building business cases for AI, compared to 45% globally.• 50% of UAE CAIOs list direct AI implementation as a primary responsibility, in line with 48% globally, though 38% of UAE CAIOs find implementation very difficult, compared to 30% backgrounds of UAE CAIOs reflect a focus on data and operationsUAE CAIOs bring a mix of technical and operational expertise to their roles:• 69% of UAE CAIOs have a career background in data, similar to 73% globally.• 48% of UAE CAIOs have focused on operations, compared to 38% globally, suggesting a pragmatic, execution-focused leadership measurement matters, but action won't waitUAE CAIOs recognize the value of measuring AI outcomes, while maintaining momentum by experimenting and innovating even without perfect metrics:• 76% of UAE CAIOs say their organizations risk falling behind without AI impact measurement compared to 72% globally• 74% of UAE CAIOs agree they initiate AI projects even if they can't measure their effects compared to 68% globallyAI adoption maturity highlights room for growthWhile UAE organizations have made significant leadership investments, many remain in early phases of AI deployment: • 76% of UAE organizations are still at pilot stages with limited deployment, compared to 60% globally. © 2000 - 2025 Al Bawaba ( Signal PressWire is the world's largest independent Middle East PR distribution service.
Globe and Mail
a day ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
How PopularityBazaar is Flipping the Script on Social Media Growth in 2025
How PopularityBazaar is Flipping the Script on Social Media Growth in 2025 Let's face it — the days of 'posting and praying' on social media are long gone. In 2025, digital platforms have become crowded, competitive, and unforgiving. Algorithms are picky. Attention spans are shorter than ever. And brands that aren't keeping up? They're fading into the background. Enter PopularityBazaar, the bold London-based social media marketing agency rewriting the rules of ROI-focused social media marketing. With a sharp understanding of today's post-organic world, this team isn't just chasing likes — they're delivering real results that move the needle. When Organic Reach Fails, Strategy Wins If you've ever poured your heart into a post and watched it disappear into the abyss… you're not alone. PopularityBazaar was built on a simple but powerful realization: 'Great content means nothing if no one sees it.' So instead of following the outdated playbook of 'just post consistently,' they offer something different — strategic, results-driven visibility tools like paid boosts for views, likes, and followers across Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and more. But it's not just about numbers. It's about turning attention into action. That's why PopularityBazaar's services are focused on real engagement, trust, and impact — not just vanity metrics that look good on paper. Smart Promotion That Actually Works What makes PopularityBazaar different? They understand that every platform has its own heartbeat. What works on YouTube Shorts won't always work on Instagram Reels. And what grabs attention on LinkedIn might flop on TikTok. That's why their approach is never one-size-fits-all. From timing and tone to style and format, their strategies are customized down to the last detail, ensuring that every campaign connects with the right people at the right moment. And yes — they do all of this while giving clients the instant boost they need to get seen by the algorithm gods. From Micro-Influencers to Major Growth Forget overpriced celebrities with low ROI. In 2025, influence lives in communities, not follower counts. This social media marketing agency helps brands collaborate with high-trust micro-influencers who genuinely connect with their niche audiences. Whether it's a skincare line, a tech gadget, or a streetwear brand, these creators spark engagement that actually converts. It's smart. It's targeted. And it keeps budgets lean while results grow wide. Content Is Nothing Without Context Here's where PopularityBazaar really sets itself apart. They don't just help you post, they help you post with purpose. Through a mix of live trend tracking, audience behavior analysis, and A/B testing, their team crafts content that hits the sweet spot: the kind that stops thumbs and starts conversations. They've turned context into a competitive advantage, helping clients outperform bigger names, even in the most crowded markets. What They Say at HQ > 'Social media today isn't just about looking good. It's about showing up with purpose, knowing your audience, your goals, and your message. That's what we help brands do. We don't just boost content. We boost confidence.' — Team at PopularityBazaar So, Why PopularityBazaar? Because in 2025, visibility isn't optional, it's everything. Whether you're a content creator looking to grow fast, or a business launching a new product, this social media marketing agency gives you the momentum, reach, and strategy to make an impact from day one. No fluff. No guesswork. Just digital growth that actually works. About the Agency PopularityBazaar is a modern social media marketing agency based in London, UK, specializing in personalized promotion services, influencer partnerships, and growth acceleration for brands and creators. From Instagram likes to YouTube Shorts views, they provide smart, effective tools to help content get noticed and remembered.
Forbes
2 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Micro‑Moments And Nano‑Creativity: An Influencer Marketing Playbook
Sergi Cerrato is a Spanish lawyer and CEO of MCR-Agency, a leading gaming influencer marketing firm. When I launched my first influencer campaign for a boutique brand, I assumed I needed big influencers because it looked glamorous on paper, but I didn't see the results the brand wanted. Engagement was flat, and conversions were nearly zero. Then, an unplanned shift occurred as a nano-influencer with 4,500 followers attended our soft launch and posted an honest Reel from their perspective. Within hours, foot traffic and online chatter began. It wasn't just exposure; it was a context-driven approach. That event led me to double down on micro-moments. This kind of unexpected, real-time, culturally focused content ultimately draws people in. And yes, these moments, created by nano‑ and micro-creators, are your brand's most potent strategy for brand trust, resonance and visible impact. Creator Authenticity Multiplies ROI Micro-moments are fleeting, context-rich interactions, such as when someone discovers your brand in real life and shares it authentically. The beauty of these moments is how they humanize your brand. So, think less broadcast, more friendship. Nano-influencers (1,000 to 10,000 followers) and micro-influencers (10,000 to 50,000 followers) specialize in micro-moments because they have lived the experience. They're not pitching; they're only inviting you to join their world. Campaigns that blend micro-moments and nano- and micro-creators often exceed the ROI of single macro-influencer strategies. Data shows that engagement rates tend to decline as follower count increases. An analysis of over 17,000 influencer marketing campaigns reveals that nano- and micro-influencers delivered engagement rates of 2.71% and 1.81%, respectively, compared to mid-tier influencers' 1.24%. This reinforces the growing value of nano- and micro-influencers, whose smaller, more connected audiences consistently drive high interaction rates. A Step-By-Step Tactical Playbook For Brands • Scout smartly. Use tools, such as influencer discovery platforms or social listening software, to identify creators who are already active in your niche or region. Prioritize those who attend pop-up events, product launches or community-driven moments, as this is where authentic, shareable content tends to occur. • Leave space for creators' creativity. Instead of handing influencers a rigid script, provide them with a creative brief that outlines the product benefits, tone of voice and core message, but allow them to tell the story in their own way. That freedom usually results in content that feels more natural and engaging. • Track engagement precisely. Don't rely on guesswork. Use UTM links (trackable URLs), promotion codes and even geofencing (targeting based on location) to measure exactly where traffic and sales are coming from. This helps prove ROI and optimize future campaigns. • Scale strategically across two tiers. Think of influencers in tiers: nano (1,000 to 10,000 followers) for authentic and lasting engagement, and micro (10,000 to 50,000 followers) for niche relevance and targeted reach. Combining these two tiers allows you to achieve the best of both worlds, including relevance, reach and resonance. • Stay compliant and transparent. Always follow Federal Trade Commission (or local) guidelines, and make sure influencers clearly label posts as ads or partnerships. Transparency not only boosts trust with audiences but also safeguards your brand from potential legal risks. Wrapping Up Nano- and micro-influencers are no longer just content creators; they're community builders who engage micro-communities. In today's crowded digital space, your brand's next campaign doesn't need a more expansive reach; it needs relevance. Micro-moments, powered by nano- and micro-creators, deliver the kind of authenticity that cuts through the noise, builds trust and drives results in real time. Forbes Agency Council is an invitation-only community for executives in successful public relations, media strategy, creative and advertising agencies. Do I qualify?
