SGF Global’s Post

I am elated to have completed the Inclusive Digital Economic Development course. Have you ever heard of digital index parameters used to categorize countries as Stand Out, Stall Out, Watch Out, or Break Out? This course provides insights into the current digital economy and the approaches adopted by various countries worldwide. With the changing dynamics of the digital economy, understanding this dynamic space is crucial. The course enables participants to comprehend the effects, both positive and negative, of digital tax, digital infrastructure, and the positioning of their country in the global digital landscape. I also learned about existing frameworks and readiness indices that facilitate e-commerce, in addition to the digital intelligence index. Thanks to Digital Frontiers Institute #DigitalEconomy

Did you know that the contributions of digital intermediary services, such as ridesharing and food delivery platforms, are not accounted in the digital economy contribution of $2.6 trillion to the US economy in 2022? In the introduction of the latest Wilson Center Brazil Institute report co-authored by Daniel Castro and Claudio Lucinda, I talk about how challenging it is to find an accurate proxy of the economic impact of regulating the digital world. To do that we need to look at the numbers and also develop more innovative research methods to better assess the digital economy. - Currently, the statistics on the digital economy provided by the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) do not fully account for the earnings from digital intermediary services. These services operate platforms that facilitate direct interactions between multiple buyers and multiple sellers, charging a fee for services like ridesharing. This omission leads to an incomplete understanding of the digital economy's full scope. - During the COVID-19 pandemic, the value of free digital services became particularly evident as they supported remote work, education, and social interactions when physical distancing was necessary. In the UK, a study aimed to assign a monetary value to these services by comparing them to their paid counterparts, estimating that they contributed significantly to household consumption, valued between £7 billion and £25.4 billion in 2020 alone. This is also often out of the equation. I hope you enjoy the paper. :) Link below.

The Philippines’ economic resilience and strategic initiatives toward inclusive and digital financial growth present a remarkable narrative of transformation and opportunity. The commendable 5.6 percent growth in 2023, amidst global economic challenges, underscores the country’s robust economic fundamentals and proactive policy measures. Notably, the emphasis on digital financial services and infrastructure spending has catalyzed this growth, offering valuable lessons in leveraging technology and strategic investments for economic expansion. The financial services sector, in particular, stands out for its significant contribution to this growth trajectory. The focused efforts on financial inclusion and digitalization, as highlighted by the substantial increase in banking penetration and digital financial transactions, are instrumental in democratizing access to financial services. These measures not only enhance the financial ecosystem’s efficiency but also pave the way for a more inclusive economic growth model. Moreover, the strategic focus on renewable energy generation and the transition towards a more sustainable and secure energy sector reflect the Philippines’ commitment to addressing global challenges while fostering economic growth. The potential for renewable energy to drive future growth is immense, given the global shift towards sustainability. This economic narrative is a testament to the Philippines’ potential as a leader in sustainable and inclusive growth in Southeast Asia. It serves as an inspiring example for nations striving to balance economic development with technological innovation and sustainability.

Africa’s Digital Economy: $180 Billion by 2025 – What’s Your Strategy? By 2025, Africa’s digital economy is set to contribute $180 billion to GDP, soaring to $712 billion by 2050. This rapid growth signals a massive opportunity for businesses and investors across key sectors like fintech, e-commerce, and mobile services. But how can you capitalise on this? Fantein’s Edge in Africa’s Digital Revolution: At Fantein, we specialise in providing the granular market insights and data needed to navigate Africa’s dynamic digital landscape. Here’s how we help you stay ahead: Opportunity Mapping: With the rise of tech hubs across Africa, identifying where and how digital adoption is expanding is critical. Fantein’s data-driven research uncovers emerging markets and consumer behaviour shifts, so you can make informed decisions on your next move. Consumer Insight: As mobile-first services dominate, understanding how African consumers engage with apps, mobile money, and digital platforms is crucial. Our in-depth surveys, focus groups, and data analysis provide you with a clear understanding of local preferences, trends, and habits—helping you develop services that meet the needs of African consumers. Brand Positioning: Tailoring your marketing strategies to African cultures and behaviours is key for success. Fantein delivers actionable insights that allow you to customise your offerings to resonate with local audiences, ensuring your brand stands out in this fast-growing digital economy. The Fantein Advantage: Our extensive knowledge of Africa’s digital landscape, combined with cutting-edge research, ensures that your business is equipped to thrive in this era of digital transformation. Whether you’re expanding your fintech services, exploring e-commerce opportunities, or launching a new digital platform, Fantein’s insights help you make data-backed, strategic decisions. The future of Africa’s digital economy is bright. Are you ready to unlock its potential? Contact Fantein to learn how we can help you harness the power of Africa’s digital revolution! WE KNOW AFRICA #Fantein #AfricaDigitalEconomy #MarketResearch #WeKnowAfrica #DigitalTransformation #BusinessGrowth

Entering new markets can be both exciting and challenging. By following this ultimate guide, businesses can navigate the complexities of market entry, minimize risks, and position themselves for success. Remember, thorough market research, a well-defined market entry strategy, compliance with legal requirements, and building a local presence are key steps in entering new markets and unlocking growth opportunities. #internationalexpansion #ecommerce

Big brands set their sights on the Middle East as part of their ongoing global expansion strategy. What are the commercial opportunities, challenges and market nuances of MENA? Read our latest blog to find out 👩💻

CANADA: CALLS ARE ONE THING; CLEAR NATIONAL INNOVATION POLICY AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT ARE ANOTHER. Ambition and lofty goals are not enough when it comes to industrial progress. Show me the beef, as the saying goes. Shopify president Harley Finkelstein said "adding ambition to the Canadian psyche" is "unequivocally necessary," so the country doesn't become a nation of branch plants and instead fosters massive companies at home." The Federal Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry Francois-Philippe Champagne chimed in: "If people in the country (?) were more vocal about their work, Champagne reasoned Canada's successes would only multiply because he says the country is already teeming with talent and known as an artificial intelligence leader." Just the weighty name of this Ministry evokes an image of Canada as an industrial powerhouse making global strides "as an artificial intelligence leader" in the commercialisation of indigenous R&D and innovations. The reality is so different, the irony risible. Here are some questions for the Minister. "Vocal" answers from the Minister, please. 1) Does Canada have an industrial policy to lead in the 21st century knowledge-based economy? 2) What is Canada doing to support startups, entrepreneurship, innovative young Canadians with brilliant ideas but usually lacking deep pockets to fund innovation, product development and marketing (does Canada have a national innovation system)? 3) Is Canada relying on its natural resources —   hewing wood, drawing water — instead of investment in R&D to grow secondary industries that drive industrial development? 4) What is it about Canada — its mindset, its "psyche" — that makes her so content, so complacent, to remain a branch-plant economy, traditionally relying on 1 main trading partner, the United States that buys more than 75 percent of Canadian exports? Low-hanging fruit (branch plants and market proximity) is easy to pick, but, at some point, you have to climb to reach the ones at the top. That's harder but necessary becasue natural resources are finite, or their prices tend to fall relative to those of manufactured goods over long periods of time, and the standard of living declines alongside. Credit Kari Levitt (1971 book "Silent Surrender"), then economics professor at McGill University, for introducing the term "branch-plant economy" in serious public discussion); and see previous Linkedin Posts about Canada's branch-plant-economy mindset. What has changed half a century later? https://lnkd.in/g9p2QzaW https://lnkd.in/gH437WER #shopify #karilevitt #branchplanteconomy

Great report by the Tech For Good Institute describing the value that digital platforms/ecosystems are bringing to SE Asia. Not only do they support economic growth, but also financial inclusion through #EmbeddedFinance and #EmbeddedInsurance (www.embedded-finance.io). The report says: * Platforms are revolutionizing work, play, and economic value creation in Southeast Asia, contributing significantly to the region's socioeconomic development. * The rapid development of the Platform Economy in Southeast Asia is highlighted in the inaugural edition of the New Economy Progress Index (NPI). * Platforms provide extensive benefits to consumers and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Southeast Asia, enhancing access, affordability, and financial inclusion. * Southeast Asia's leading home-grown technology platforms, often Online-to-Offline (O2O) in nature, require both physical and digital infrastructures to operate effectively. * Beyond Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) growth, platforms have bolstered Southeast Asia's digital economy through investments in digital payments and logistics networks, particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. * The NPI assesses Southeast Asia's Platform Economy across four dimensions: digital infrastructure, physical infrastructure, consumer participation, and MSME participation, emphasizing the need for improved connectivity and digital skills. * The rise of e-commerce has expanded customer reach for MSMEs and strengthened logistics infrastructure, showcasing platforms' role in bolstering resilience during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. * Southeast Asia faces challenges in the Platform Economy, including competition, consumer protection, labour market changes, and a growing digital divide, necessitating careful balance in regulations. * The region is encouraged to develop its own strategies to harness the Platform Economy's benefits while addressing its challenges, considering Southeast Asia's unique development stage and circumstances. * The report positions the Platform Economy as a potential driver for inclusive development in Southeast Asia over the next decade, calling for a collective approach to navigating its future challenges. More on the topic here: www.embedded-finance.io

Southeast Asia (SEA) has emerged as a powerhouse in the global economy, boasting impressive economic growth rates and diverse markets. As we enter 2024, several sectors within the region are poised for explosive expansion, attracting significant interest from investors, entrepreneurs, and established businesses alike. This article delves into the 5 fastest growing sectors in SEA for 2024, highlighting the key drivers behind their growth, exploring their potential, and offering considerations for those seeking to capitalize on these booming trends: https://lnkd.in/gPGNThM6

Economic Stability: Commerce drives economic activity, providing jobs, income, and resources for individuals and governments. Without commerce, unemployment rates would soar, leading to financial instability and poverty for many. Access to Goods and Services: Commerce facilitates the exchange of goods and services, ensuring that people have access to the things they need and want. Without it, essential items like food, clothing, and medicine might become scarce or inaccessible. Innovation and Progress: Commerce encourages innovation and competition, driving progress in technology, healthcare, and other fields. Without commercial incentives, there would be less motivation for research and development, hindering societal advancement. ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '#Commerce #Economy #Trade #Globalization #Innovation #Jobs #StandardofLiving #Access #GoodsandServices #EconomicStability #foryou #trending #globely #uscommerce Global Interconnectedness: Commerce fosters international trade and cooperation, connecting economies and cultures around the world. Without it, countries would become more isolated, leading to geopolitical tensions and conflicts. Standard of Living: Commerce contributes to the overall standard of living by increasing productivity, efficiency, and quality of life. Without it, standards of living would likely decline, leading to reduced opportunities and resources for individuals and communities.