Tech Features

Cybersecurity Investment Market: Here’s to the Resilient Ones

Published

1 year ago

July 19, 2024

By Anastasia Komissarova – Deputy CEO at Group-IB

I guess we all agree that AI is the hottest segment today – 90% of all discussions in VC / Tech are around AI, mega-rounds, extreme multiples. 3-4 years ago, the very same discussions were about cybersecurity.

Cyber was and still is one of the most well-funded tech segments – in 2021 alone cybersecurity companies received an unprecedent amount of $21.8 bn (just $8.7 bn in 2023 though). 2021-2022 were the days of crazy valuations and 10x+ EV/Revenue multiples. Basically, it didn’t even matter if you were profitable or even planning to be profitable – if you were good in marketing, had a nice pitch and could sell fear well, the money was yours.

It all changed in 2023. The cost of funds, global instability, new technological shifts led to cooling of investors’ appetite for risk and thus raised quite existential questions for cybersecurity players.

At the same time cyber threats continue to grow worldwide. In latest Hi-Tech Crime Trends 2023/2024 Group-IB disclosed 74% yoy growth in data leaks, 70% yoy increase in zero-day exploits for sale, 30% reduction of average price of corporate access etc.

However fear is not selling that well anymore – we start seeing a certain level of fatigue from constant growth of cybersecurity expenses on the customers’ side. New siloed solutions arise every day and CISOs receive hundreds of pitches per month. But is just another EDR a gamechanger for the customer? Or are businesses more interested in receiving a holistic proposal covering most of the key attack vectors?

If the latter is true (which it is) it could only mean one thing – limited growth opportunities for mono-product vendors. Limited growth of revenue means higher increase of cash burn rate. Since in most cases such companies got used to accessibility of external financing, which is now gone, we shall be prepared for a new wave of M&As in cybersecurity or for some companies going out of business.

It’s also true that some 5 years ago founders of cybersecurity shops facing doubts about next round valuations could have used another goldmine of tech companies – Initial public offering (IPO). In the past if you were growing fast and generating some $50 mn in annual recurring revenue (ARR) – you were a great IPO target. Most of cybersecurity companies became publicly traded unicorns with ARR around $100 mn. Today it’s also not an option. With current 4-5x EV/Revenue multiples, you need to have a solid ARR of at least $250 mn to be able to have a moderately successful IPO.

So, let’s recap that now:

• Growing fatigue level of executives in B2B segment limits growth opportunities for niche cybersecurity players
• Private capital became less available, investor’s now look not only how cool the tech is but how sustainable the business model is.
• Public markets’ requirements are toughening: only companies that reach significant revenue levels can be viewed as attractive IPO targets.

Some might feel that such shifts limit innovative potential and set higher barriers for entering the market. But I am feeling quite positive as it means the game is becoming more fair and more mature. It’s not just about those who burn cash on marketing and customers acquisition or spend more time in the Valley but more about those who know how to invest smartly and do more with less. I believe everyone will win from such shift in investment perspective:

• Businesses will be getting better solutions as vendors will focus more on quality of the product than on marketing.
• Start-ups will learn better financial discipline and healthier growth strategies.
• Scale-ups will focus on building billion-dollar-revenue companies rather than on billion-dollar valuations.
• Investors that do choose to invest into cybersecurity shops matching the new criteria even now will generate higher returns as their funds will be used more efficiently.

Cybersecurity has already become an existential part of each company’s strategy and it will preserve its place for years to come. Social significance of cybersecurity issues is crucial: from loss of privacy and advanced disinformation to artificial intelligence abuse. And this shall constantly drive the level of responsibility of cybersecurity companies. Tightening financial requirements, higher maturity of spending decisions from customers and investors will lead to more sustainable growth, higher resilience of cybersecurity companies and thus more probability to minimize cyber threats in the future.

Tech Features

Sustainable AI Practices Driving Ethical and Green Tech

Published

1 month ago

August 12, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

By Mansour Al Ajmi, CEO of X-Shift

Sustainable AI practices are no longer optional—they are essential for shaping technology that benefits both people and the planet. As artificial intelligence transforms industries from healthcare to transportation, the challenge is to ensure its growth is ethical, environmentally responsible, and socially inclusive. This means addressing not only energy efficiency and carbon reduction but also governance, fairness, and long-term societal impacts.

Why Sustainable AI Practices Go Beyond the Environment?

AI is now deeply embedded in investment strategies, medical diagnostics, media platforms, and public infrastructure. While reducing energy usage is vital, true sustainability also requires ethical governance and the elimination of bias.

For example, biased training datasets can unintentionally reinforce social inequality. Studies, such as those from the MIT Media Lab, have shown that some AI systems perform poorly with diverse populations, highlighting the risk of discrimination. Addressing this means conducting regular algorithmic audits, enforcing transparency, and ensuring diverse representation in AI development teams.

The Environmental Impact of AI

Training advanced AI models consumes enormous computational resources. The process can generate carbon emissions equivalent to hundreds of long-haul flights. To counter this, tech leaders are investing in renewable energy and designing energy-efficient processors and cooling systems.

However, sustainable AI practices should become the default, not the exception. From sourcing materials responsibly to rethinking hardware infrastructure, the focus must be on green innovation by design.

Embedding Sustainability at the Strategic Core

Sustainable AI practices work best when integrated into an organization’s core strategy. Aligning AI solutions with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can directly support climate action, reduce inequalities, and promote responsible consumption.

In the Middle East, initiatives like Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence demonstrate how sustainability and AI can align with national priorities. These strategies not only meet ethical standards but also deliver competitive advantages, building consumer trust and fostering innovation.

Governance for Responsible AI

Strong governance is key to ensuring sustainable AI practices are upheld. Regulatory frameworks, such as the European Union’s AI Act, guide transparency, accountability, and fairness.

Governance should enable innovation while preventing harm. Public-private partnerships, global cooperation, and industry alliances are critical to creating ethical, scalable, and resilient AI ecosystems.

Preparing the Workforce for the AI Era

McKinsey estimates that AI adoption could displace up to 800 million jobs by 2030. Sustainable AI practices must include reskilling and upskilling initiatives to ensure inclusive economic growth.

By investing in training programs, organizations can help employees transition to new roles in AI-related fields. This proactive approach strengthens workforce agility and supports long-term resilience.

Leadership’s Role in Driving Sustainable AI Practices

AI can significantly advance sustainability goals, from optimizing supply chains to reducing environmental waste. Companies like Unilever are already using AI to achieve greener operations, proving its real-world potential.

Yet leadership commitment is essential. Executives must set measurable goals, model ethical behavior, and integrate sustainability into company culture. This ensures that sustainability is not a side project but a core business value.

The Shared Responsibility for a Sustainable AI Future

Creating a sustainable AI future requires collaboration between individuals, corporations, and governments. Citizens should stay informed and question how AI affects them. Companies must embed sustainability into their AI strategies, while governments need to establish policies that encourage responsible innovation.

By acting now, we can ensure AI evolves as a force for good—advancing technology without sacrificing ethics, equity, or environmental stewardship.

Check out our previous post on WHX Tech 2025 to Drive Global Digital Health Transformation

Tech Features

Epicor CMO Kerrie Jordan to Drive Global Marketing Growth

Published

1 month ago

August 12, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

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Kerrie Jordan - Epicor — Kerrie Jordan – Epicor

Epicor CMO Kerrie Jordan has been appointed to lead the company’s global marketing strategy. This move marks a pivotal moment in the enterprise software leader’s expansion. Epicor, known for its industry-specific solutions for the make, move, and sell economy, announced the news on August 12, 2025, in Dubai.

Jordan brings a rare combination of senior product innovation and strategic marketing expertise. She will strengthen the Epicor brand, expand market reach, and deepen customer engagement worldwide.

Epicor CMO Kerrie Jordan Brings Product and Market Expertise Together

Vaibhav Vohra, Epicor President and Chief Product & Technology Officer, eVaibhav Vohra, Epicor President and Chief Product & Technology Officer, emphasized the importance of the appointment.

“Kerrie’s ability to connect product strategy with market execution makes her an ideal fit. Her leadership has already shaped our Cognitive ERP vision, and we’re excited to see her bring that same energy and insight to our marketing efforts.”

Since joining Epicor in 2023 as Group Vice President of Product Management and ISV Partner Programs, Jordan has advanced the company’s Cognitive ERP roadmap. This AI-driven approach turns ERP from a system of record into a system of action and insight, empowering supply chain businesses to operate smarter and faster.

A Vision for Accelerated Innovation and Growth

In her new role, Jordan will unite product innovation, analytics, and go-to-market strategies to accelerate customer time-to-value. She will also foster innovation and support Epicor’s global expansion.

“I’m honored to expand my role at Epicor,” Jordan said. “Epicor is at the forefront of enabling essential businesses to thrive through AI-driven, connected technologies. I look forward to amplifying our impact, building stronger relationships with customers and partners, and driving growth across global markets.”

A Career Built on Technology Leadership

Before joining Epicor, Jordan served in senior product marketing positions at Oracle. She developed strategies for enterprise software solutions and helped drive adoption. Earlier in her career, she led strategic marketing programs for technology clients during her consulting roles at global marketing firms.

Jordan is a recognized voice in cloud ERP, digital transformation, and supply chain innovation. She hosts Epicor’s “Manufacturing the Future” podcast, which features industry leaders discussing trends shaping manufacturing and supply chain sectors. She is also a Forbes Tech Council contributor. Jordan holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Santa Clara University in California.

Epicor’s Commitment to Industry-Focused Growth

Epicor has served customers across automotive, building supply, distribution, manufacturing, and retail for more than 50 years. The company’s solutions are tailored to industry needs and adaptable to fast-changing market conditions.

Check out our previous post on WHX Tech 2025 to Drive Global Digital Health Transformation

Tech Features

In-Hand Comfort Meets Elegant Design – A UI You’ll Love and Performance You Can Count On– Meet Oppo’s Reno 14 Series!

Published

1 month ago

August 11, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Oppo Reno 14 Series promotional collage highlighting design and performance

Reviewed By Srijith KN
Device Reno 14F 5G

In today’s crowded smartphone market, very few devices make a lasting impression from the first hold. The Oppo Reno 14 Series does exactly that. Its rounded front design, sharp edges, and striking Iridescent Mermaid finish give it a premium look that stands out. At just 7.42 mm thick and 187 g, with aluminium-framed edges, it feels light yet sturdy in the hand.

The 6.57-inch LTPS OLED display offers a 120 Hz Full HD+ experience with HDR10+ support and a peak brightness of 1,200 nits. While the brightness could be slightly higher, the rich colour tones make it ideal for streaming and gaming. The high refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and responsive visuals.

Display & Performance in the Oppo Reno 14

Powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 mobile platform, paired with 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of UFS 3.1 storage, the Oppo Reno 14 Series delivers fluid performance. Everyday tasks, multitasking, and gaming feel effortless. Even after a month of use, there’s no lag, and the phone remains cool under pressure.

The signal reception is equally reliable, performing well even in remote mountain regions. For gamers, the combination of smooth frame rates and strong connectivity makes it a dependable choice.

Camera Setup Built for Creativity

The Oppo Reno 14 Series brings a 32 MP front camera and a triple rear camera system (50 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP). It supports 4K 60 fps HDR video recording, delivering sharp and vibrant footage. Oppo’s image processing handles lighting well, although the AI can occasionally produce slightly artificial tones. When it dials back the processing, the results are impressively natural.

Selfies from the front camera are detailed, making it a strong option for content creators. AI-powered tools such as AI Eraser, AI Reflection Remover, AI Unblur, AI Recompose, and AI Perfect Shot add versatility. Beyond photography, features like real-time translation and cloud-based voice transcription offer extra value.

Battery Life & Charging Speed on the Oppo Reno 14

Battery performance is one of the standout features. The massive 6,000 mAh battery easily lasts over a day of heavy use. Paired with 80 W fast charging, it goes from 0% to 100% in just 40–50 minutes, reducing downtime significantly.

Software and User Experience

Running on ColorOS 15, the interface is polished and responsive. The design is intuitive, though it comes with pre-installed apps that many users may want to remove for a cleaner setup. The combination of IP69 water and dust resistance, strong haptics, and a promised five years of major updates enhances its long-term value.

Verdict: A Strong Contender in Its Price Range

The Oppo Reno 14 Series blends premium design, solid performance, long battery life, and camera versatility into a package that offers excellent value. Whether for everyday use, creative projects, or gaming, it meets a wide range of needs without compromise.

For readers who enjoyed this review, check out our previous feature on Sustainable Tech: How Globant Shapes a Greener Tomorrow to see how innovation is shaping the tech industry.