Overview

Economies worldwide prepare for the next industrial revolution
OBG
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The global economy is entering the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), or Industry 4.0, based on the application of new digital and automated technologies in production processes and service delivery. These changes are bringing emerging markets improved productivity, as well as risks – namely, reshoring and the displacement of human labour by automation. Wealthier emerging markets, such as…

Overview

As costs decline, renewables in Colombia and other emerging markets show positive growth
OBG
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Although the world remains largely dependent upon fossil fuels for power generation, a gradual transition towards renewable sources has been taking place since the 1990s, underpinned by multilateral deals such as the Kyoto Protocol, the Doha Amendment and, more recently, the Paris Agreement. Investment and development in renewable technologies has historically been led by developed countries,…

Overview

Investment in education technology surges as worldwide markets recognise its potential
OBG
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In an era marked by profound technological disruption and intense global competition in new frontier industries, emerging markets are striving to improve and adapt their education systems to reconcile the demands of the modern economy and the needs of citizens. As such, innovative solutions are being developed to address barriers within traditional education systems. As such, education technology…

Overview

Innovation in Colombia grows in response to increased stability
OBG
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Colombia constitutes a distinctive blend of ethnicities, cultures and geography. It has the second-largest population in South America and is the continent’s fourth-largest country. With two coasts on two different oceans, it is located at a natural crossroads between the Caribbean, Central and South America. In spite of its heavy focus on natural resource exports, the country has rebounded…

Overview

Colombia's socio-political outlook improves and holds further potential
OBG
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The political landscape in Colombia is rather complex, a result of the convoluted evolution that gave rise to the system as it stands today. In addition, the violent conflicts that gripped the country for decades, while partially resolved, still continue to exercise a defining influence on national politics. The country’s sub-national governments are divided into 32 departments alongside…

Overview

Colombia's economy set for expansion despite challenges
OBG
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Colombia is poised for expansion in 2019 and 2020, despite some internal and external challenges that have not abated since 2018. Regionally, economic growth in 2018 outpaced giants Brazil and Mexico, but trailed the smaller, yet more dynamic economies of Chile and Peru. In May of that year Colombia was invited to become the 37th member of the OECD, a positive development that should increase…

Overview

Fintech solutions prime the global financial services sector for growth
OBG
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Once reserved for ambitious start-ups and industry-leading tech operators, financial technology (fintech) has more recently caught the attention of major private sector firms and government planners alike, becoming a regular feature in budget speeches and strategic development plans. As fintech progressively plays a larger part in the lives of consumers, investors have quickly come to recognise…

Overview

Inclusion in global indices stimulates capital market activity, but more is needed
OBG
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The period of easily raising funds from abroad seems to be coming to an end for emerging markets around the world. In the new environment of higher interest rates in the US and increased competition for capital flows, portfolio managers are becoming more selective with where they place their money. One way for developing nations to ensure that their financial markets can continue to attract…

Overview

New products and technology contribute to growth in Colombia's insurance sector
OBG
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On the back of strong economic growth and diversified distribution channels, the insurance industry in Colombia – the fifth largest in Latin America – is expected to post steady growth over the coming years. The expansion of the sector, however, is not anticipated to be as strong as previous years’ due after lower-than-expected tax returns following fiscal reform efforts that are under…

Overview

As costs decline, renewables in Colombia and other emerging markets show positive growth
OBG
plus

Although the world remains largely dependent upon fossil fuels for power generation, a gradual transition towards renewable sources has been taking place since the 1990s, underpinned by multilateral deals such as the Kyoto Protocol, the Doha Amendment and, more recently, the Paris Agreement. Investment and development in renewable technologies has historically been led by developed countries,…