WEF Archives - SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research https://swisscognitive.ch/top_keyword/wef/ SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research, committed to Unleashing AI in Business Tue, 28 Jan 2025 18:46:36 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8 https://i0.wp.com/swisscognitive.ch/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/cropped-SwissCognitive_favicon_2021.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 WEF Archives - SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research https://swisscognitive.ch/top_keyword/wef/ 32 32 163052516 AI Takes Centre Stage at Davos 2025 https://swisscognitive.ch/2025/01/26/ai-takes-centre-stage-at-davos-2025/ Sun, 26 Jan 2025 04:44:00 +0000 https://swisscognitive.ch/?p=127158 AI news from the global cross-industry ecosystem brought to the community in 200+ countries every week by SwissCognitive.

Der Beitrag AI Takes Centre Stage at Davos 2025 erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
Dear AI Enthusiast,

AI took centre stage at Davos 2025, sparking critical conversations on ethics, collaboration, and innovation.

Explore our co-founder Dalith Steiger-Gablinger’s key takeaways and also discover how AI has driven major shifts worldwide through last week.

➡ AI-powered song unites women across 195 countries for equality
➡ Google invests $1B in AI startup Anthropic to push innovation
➡ Pope warns AI could deepen the global ‘crisis of truth
➡ Algorithms offer new solutions to pressing societal challenges
…and more!

Thank you for joining us on this journey. More AI updates are coming soon!

Kind regards, 🌞

The Team of SwissCognitive

Der Beitrag AI Takes Centre Stage at Davos 2025 erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
127158
AI Takes Center Stage at Davos 2025: A SwissCognitive Perspective https://swisscognitive.ch/2025/01/25/ai-takes-center-stage-at-davos-2025-a-swisscognitive-perspective/ Sat, 25 Jan 2025 15:57:43 +0000 https://swisscognitive.ch/?p=127150 Davos 2025 showcased AI's role in driving global collaboration, ethical governance, open-source innovation alongside national investments.

Der Beitrag AI Takes Center Stage at Davos 2025: A SwissCognitive Perspective erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
The discussions at Davos 2025 highlighted AI’s growing influence on global collaboration, ethical governance, and the evolving balance between national investments and open-source innovation.

 

Dalith Steiger-Gablinger, Co-Founder SwissCognitive – “AI Takes Center Stage at Davos 2025: A SwissCognitive Perspective”


 

As the snow-capped peaks of Davos played host to the World Economic Forum 2025, the air was thick with excitement and a palpable sense of urgency. This year’s theme, “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age,” set the stage for intense discussions on artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential to reshape our world. As co-founders of SwissCognitive, Andy Fitze and I, Dalith Steiger, had the privilege of being flies on the wall at various public side events, soaking in the insights and debates that unfolded.

The buzz around AI was impossible to ignore, with sessions ranging from “Harnessing AI for Social Innovation” to “The Pulse of AI Innovation”. Clearly, the technology has moved beyond mere hype and into the realm of transformative force. As James Ong, one of the panellists, aptly put it, “We need to rethink the philosophy and the relationship between AI and human beings.” AI is not just a tool; it’s a paradigm shift that will redefine how we work, live, and interact with the world around us.”

We need to rethink the philosophy and the relationship between AI and human beings.” James Ong, Founder and Director of Artificial Intelligence International Institute [AIII]

 

One of the most striking aspects of the discussions was the emphasis on collaboration. Gone are the days of siloed AI development. The consensus at Davos was clear: to harness the full potential of AI and ensure its benefits are widely distributed, we need unprecedented levels of cooperation between governments, businesses, and civil society.

Another discussion that deeply resonates with our vision at SwissCognitive is the AI discussion in avoiding the pitfalls of the digital divide, emphasising the need for AI to “lift all boats” rather than exacerbate existing inequalities. We strongly advocated for inclusive AI development.

The ethical implications of AI were another hot topic. The sentiment that we are not just building algorithms; we are shaping the future of humanity was echoed across multiple panels, with discussions ranging from AI’s impact on privacy to its potential to either mitigate or exacerbate climate change.

As we navigated the bustling streets of Davos, Andy and I found ourselves in impromptu discussions with fellow attendees. One of the enlightening discussions was while waiting for the Meta hot chocolate or queuing for the entrance of the Dome. One thing that was present through all our exchanges. People engaged openly, with respect and humour.

The energy was infectious, with everyone from startup founders to policymakers eager to share their perspectives on AI’s future. One conversation that stuck with us was with a young entrepreneur who’s using AI to tackle food waste in developing countries. It was a powerful reminder of AI’s potential to address some of our most pressing global challenges and SDGs.

The governance of AI emerged as a critical theme throughout the forum. With the rapid pace of AI development, there’s a growing recognition that our regulatory frameworks need to evolve just as quickly. The call for adaptive, agile governance structures was loud and clear. We shouldn’t govern 21st-century technology with 20th-century laws!

“We shouldn’t govern 21st-century technology with 20th-century laws!” during a Chatham rules debate

 

Perhaps the most stimulating discussions, however, centred around the potential of AI to complement human capabilities rather than replace them. AI should be seen as a co-pilot, not an autopilot. As advocates of collaboration between humans and AI, Andy and I were heartened to hear leaders from different sectors emphasise the importance of involving humans in development.

“AI should be seen as a co-pilot, not an autopilot.” during a Chatham rules debate

 

The Open Source Revolution: A Game-Changer in the Global AI Race

Another topic that consistently emerged in our conversations was the growing importance of open source in AI development. This trend is not just reshaping the technological landscape; it’s also challenging the traditional narrative of national AI supremacy.

The United States’ commitment to investing a staggering $500 billion in AI over the next three years is undoubtedly headline-grabbing. However, as Yann LeCun, VP & Chief AI Scientist at Meta, astutely pointed out during several discussions in Davos, the real story might be the rise of open-source models rather than any single nation’s dominance.

LeCun’s perspective is particularly illuminating: “To people who see the performance of DeepSeek and think: ‘China is surpassing the US in AI.’ You are reading this wrong. The correct reading is: ‘Open source models are surpassing proprietary ones.'”

Open source LLM models are surpassing proprietary ones.” Yann LeCun, VP & Chief AI Scientist at Meta

 

This shift towards open source is democratising AI development on a global scale. LeCun explained that “DeepSeek has profited from open research and open source (e.g. PyTorch and Llama from Meta). They came up with new ideas and built them on top of other people’s work. Because their work is published and open source, everyone can profit from it. That is the power of open research and open source.”

Indeed, the open-source movement in AI is gaining momentum rapidly. Models like Llama 2, Mistral, and DeepSeek are not just matching but, in some cases, surpassing the capabilities of proprietary giants like GPT-4 and Google Gemini. This trend is reshaping the AI ecosystem, offering adaptability, cost-efficiency, and privacy compliance that many enterprises find increasingly attractive.

The implications of this shift are profound. While national investments like the U.S.’s $500 billion commitment are crucial, the collaborative nature of open-source development means that innovations can come from anywhere. This global pool of talent and ideas could potentially accelerate AI development far beyond what any single nation or company could achieve alone.

Moreover, the open source movement aligns with the growing calls for AI transparency and accountability. One tech executive at Davos noted, “We’re not just building algorithms; we’re shaping the future of humanity.” Open source development allows for greater scrutiny and collective problem-solving, potentially leading to safer and more ethical AI systems.

We’re not just building algorithms; we’re shaping the future of humanity.” CEO during a Panel in Davos

 

As we reflect on the discussions at Davos, it’s clear that the future of AI is not just about who can invest the most money. It’s about fostering a global ecosystem of innovation, collaboration, and shared progress. The rise of open source in AI is not just a technological trend; it’s a paradigm shift that could redefine how we approach some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

In this new landscape, the winners will not necessarily be the nations or companies with the deepest pockets but those who can best harness the collective intelligence of the global AI community. As we move forward, it will be fascinating to see how this open-source revolution continues to shape the future of AI and, by extension, our world.

In this new landscape, the winners will not necessarily be the nations or companies with the deepest pockets, but those who can best harness the collective intelligence of the global AI community.” Andy Fitze, Co-Founder SwissCognitive

 

As the forum drew to a close, we left Davos with a sense of cautious optimism. The challenges ahead are significant, but so too is the collective will to address them. The conversations made it clear that we are at a pivotal moment in the development of AI, and the decisions we make now will shape its trajectory for years to come. This future belongs to the young generations. We, the older generation, must be aware that every decision we make won’t affect us, as it will affect the younger generations! This responsibility is imperative!

As we return to our work at SwissCognitive, we’re more energised than ever to continue fostering dialogue and collaboration in AI. The insights gained at Davos will undoubtedly inform our efforts to build a future where AI truly lifts all boats, creating a rising tide of innovation and prosperity for all.

We are the change we wanna see”, Yip Thy Diep Ta, Founder & CEO @ J3D.AI, House of Collaboration

 

In reflecting on our experience, Andy remarked, “The technical possibilities of AI are astounding, but it’s the human ingenuity in applying these technologies that will truly change the world.” I couldn’t agree more, adding, “AI has the power to amplify our human potential, but only if we approach its development with empathy, wisdom, and a commitment to inclusivity.

Der Beitrag AI Takes Center Stage at Davos 2025: A SwissCognitive Perspective erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
127150
First Song Ever to Unite Women from All Countries Using Sound Healing Frequencies https://swisscognitive.ch/2025/01/24/first-song-ever-to-unite-women-from-all-countries-using-sound-healing-frequencies/ Fri, 24 Jan 2025 20:02:56 +0000 https://swisscognitive.ch/?p=127142 The song “195” unites women worldwide through AI and sound healing frequencies, using music to amplify voices and promote gender equality.

Der Beitrag First Song Ever to Unite Women from All Countries Using Sound Healing Frequencies erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
The song “195” unites women worldwide through AI and sound healing frequencies, using music to amplify voices and promote gender equality.

 

By Martina Fuchs

Credits: The Female Quotient / The Frequency School – “First Song Ever to Unite Women from All Countries Using Sound Healing Frequencies”


 

SwissCognitive_Logo_RGBThe Frequency School – in partnership with The Female Quotient – launched “195”, the first song in history featuring women from all of the world’s 195 countries using sound healing frequencies and the 528 Hz ‘Love Frequency’ in a bid to ignite a global movement and raise awareness about gender equality across various industries including technology.

The Frequency School co-founded by Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum music producer Maejor, Kingsley Maduka, Brandon Lee, Aaron Dawson and Martina Fuchs premiered this visionary, powerful and universal campaign at a side-event in Davos, Switzerland which took place during the first day of the 55th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF).

Using the sounds of birds and the heartbeat as instrumental elements, “195” aims to raise the world’s frequency, elevate humanity, and trigger a positive impact by uniting and empowering women worldwide.

One woman in every one of the world’s 195 countries recognized by the United Nations said one word: “EQUALITY” in her national language or native tongue.

Martina Fuchs, business journalist and executive producer of the 195 women song, said:

“It has always been my dream to produce the first song in history featuring every country on the planet. Our vision was to unite 195 women from all walks of life from around the globe in this pioneering and groundbreaking initiative to advocate for gender equality and the rights of women and girls, and to help people struggling with mental health issues. Gender equality is not only a fundamental human right, but a necessary foundation for a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable world.”

U.S. Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum music producer Maejor who produced the song using sound healing frequencies said:

“We chose to use 528 Hz for the track which is often referred to as the ‘love frequency’, or the frequency of transformation and miracles. It provides a powerful energetic foundation for creating an environment where equality can flourish. By resonating with a frequency linked to unconditional love, we wanted to promote more respect and fairness for women, as well as deep inner healing and a state of peace. The transformative vibration of 528 Hz can inspire positive action and empathy and people to act more kindly and inclusively.”

According to scientific studies and music theory, Solfeggio frequencies, ranging from 174 Hz to 963 Hz, offer unique sound patterns that promote relaxation, stress relief, and overall well-being. These frequencies have been shown to positively impact mental, emotional, and physical health by generating vibrations that help achieve a state of calm and balance of the mind, body and spirit.

Miriam Moriati, President of the Kiribati Rotaract Youth Club and a Women and Youth representative for OARS (Ocean Alliance for Resilience and Sustainability), said:

“I’m from Kiribati, a small island nation in the Pacific, where our highest point is just 3 meters above sea level. Our women in Kiribati are vulnerable due to gender equality not being part of our culture and traditions. They are often the first to be affected by crises and the last to recover. Being part of this initiative to support women on an international stage is an incredible honor. Opportunities to represent our small country are rare, and I am grateful for this platform to amplify the voices of Kiribati women.”

Dalith Steiger, Co-Founder of SwissCognitive and the voice of Israel in the song said:

“Equality is not just an ideal—it’s our collective responsibility. The lack of gender equality still remains a huge challenge in the technology space that we need to tackle. I’m convinced that AI can support us to unbias the bias! I am grateful to be part of this global women empowerment initiative to raise awareness across various sectors.”

A new white paper by IMD in collaboration with Microsoft Switzerland and EqualVoice released at the WEF on Thursdy provides in-depth analysis and guidance for organizations to mitigate against risks and use AI responsibly.

More than 80% of the world’s organizations are expected to be using GenAI tools in production environments by 2026, and the productivity gains will likely boost global GDP by $7tn in the next decade. Yet even as innovation races ahead, important questions need to be asked about the potential risks.

Read the full report “Mind the Gap Addressing the risk of bias in Generative AI”.

The “195” song is planned to be submitted for a Guinness World Records for the title: “Most nationalities to contribute vocals to a musical recording (single song)”.

@Brandon Lee Shelley Zalis The Female Quotient The Frequency School

Der Beitrag First Song Ever to Unite Women from All Countries Using Sound Healing Frequencies erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
127142
Reducing the Environmental Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) https://swisscognitive.ch/2024/11/09/reducing-the-environmental-impact-of-artificial-intelligence-ai/ Sat, 09 Nov 2024 04:44:00 +0000 https://swisscognitive.ch/?p=126621 Businesses can cut the AI environmental footprint by designing efficient models, optimizing energy use, and choosing renewable energy sources.

Der Beitrag Reducing the Environmental Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
Businesses can reduce the environmental impact of AI by using energy-efficient model designs, sustainable architectures, and renewable energy sources to balance innovation with eco-conscious practices.

 

Copyright: informationweek.com – “Reducing the Environmental Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI)”


 

SwissCognitive_Logo_RGBBy adopting energy-efficient architectures, optimizing AI models for performance, and pushing for cloud providers to embrace renewable energy, businesses can help reduce the carbon footprint of their AI solutions.

Artificial intelligence is reshaping our world. Its transformative power fuels innovation across industries — delivering new value to organizations and consumers alike. As the proliferation of AI accelerates, people are starting to ask important questions: How does AI impact the environment? And furthermore, how do we keep pushing for progress without leaving a heavy carbon footprint on the planet? 

AI’s Eco Impact

Artificial intelligence software runs in data centers that consume large amounts of energy and often cause significant carbon emissions. According to Bloomberg, there are more than 7,000 data centers worldwide. Collectively, they can consume as much power annually as the entire electricity production of Australia or Italy. The growing use of AI will further increase this already substantial energy consumption of data centers. 

The use of AI can be separated into two main tasks: training and inferencing. During training, AI models learn from vast amounts of data that can take months depending on data complexity and volume. Once an AI model has been trained, it consumes energy each time it generates a new response or “inference.” The International Energy Agency (IEA) has reported a ChatGPT inquiry requires up to 10 times the electricity of a Google search to respond to a typical request. This energy consumption adds up and can quickly surpass the energy used for training.

The WEF estimates training comprises about 20% of an AI model’s overall energy use across its lifespan, while inferencing makes up the remaining 80%.[…]

Read more: www.informationweek.com

Der Beitrag Reducing the Environmental Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
126621
AI in Diplomacy: Can Technology Foster a More Peaceful World? https://swisscognitive.ch/2024/08/09/ai-in-diplomacy-can-technology-foster-a-more-peaceful-world/ Fri, 09 Aug 2024 03:44:00 +0000 https://swisscognitive.ch/?p=125872 Can we stop our world from falling apart? As conflicts rage on, and tensions grow worldwide the efforts to broker peace are increasingly…

Der Beitrag AI in Diplomacy: Can Technology Foster a More Peaceful World? erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
Can we stop our world from falling apart? As conflicts rage on, and tensions grow worldwide the efforts to broker peace are increasingly failing.

 

SwissCognitive Guest Blogger: Livia Spiesz – “AI in Diplomacy: Can Technology Foster a More Peaceful World?”


 

SwissCognitive_Logo_RGBThere are currently 56 ongoing conflicts globally involving 96 countries (Vision for Humanity, 2024; Salhani, 2024). The issue to mitigate this lies in the increasing norm of using force. Leaders are opting for peace-undermining military solutions, believing they can succeed through force rather than diplomacy. I would even challenge that as a reason. War seems to be the new status quo, disregarding also the thousands of lives lost in the process. What does it really mean? I let numbers speak: in 2023, the global expenditure on military operations reached $2.44 trillion USD, while peacebuilding and peacekeeping operations were at $34.1 billion. (International Peace Institute, 2023; and Dyvik, 2024). Result? 110 million people are displaced globally as we speak, and in 2023, more civilians were killed or injured by airstrikes, bombs, and artillery than in any year over the past decade. (International Rescue Committee, 2024; and Sabbagh, 2024)

Humanity struggles to learn from history, as violence remains a persistent and ineffective approach to resolving conflicts. With Artificial Intelligence (AI) being increasingly applied across industries and domains, I wonder, can this technology offer a solution to these escalating tensions and “save our world” from falling apart? Can it transfer diplomacy? Is the field ready at all?

After exchanging with hundreds of AI experts globally in the last over 6 years, I see great potential for AI in the world of diplomacy. This great potential is however wrapped in peril that needs the human mind, heart and soul to remove. On one hand, AI can revolutionize diplomacy and streamline negotiations (for instance through AI-driven conflict analysis tools and tailored approaches to negotiations), and also enhance global security (monitoring local news, tracking down misinformation, identifying potential conflicts, and anticipating trends (Delcker, 2023)). On the other hand, it can exacerbate existing disparities, fuel an arms race, increase sophisticated cyber threats, and deepen distrust among nations. This contrast makes me wonder: Are we prepared to handle this double-edged sword wisely, or will we let it cut deeper into the fabric of international relations?

AI readiness will likely determine future economic growth, potentially widening the prosperity gap between AI-ready and non-AI-ready countries (Georgieva, 2024). The United Nations (UN) has a critical role in promoting international cooperation and addressing this challenge posed by AI. The question is: are global leaders also prepared to create policies that ensure AI benefits everyone or will they simply reinforce existing inequalities?

Experts emphasize proactive AI governance to prevent risks from an unchecked race driven by strategic advantage and profit​ (Pasquini, 2024). Proposals range from informal agreements to initiatives like the WEF’s AI Governance Alliance and the UN Secretary-General’s AI Advisory Body​. These bodies aim to provide technical assessments and promote international cooperation. However, the absence of major players like China and Russia, along with the underrepresentation of developing nations, poses significant challenges​ (Zhou, 2024).
Article continues below.

The centralization of AI development in the Global North also creates power imbalances, leaving the Global South in a consumer role, sometimes with AI models that do not even fit local contexts (Antony et al., 2024). This problem is further complicated by the geopolitical impacts of AI, which potentially undermines the autonomy of countries that import these technologies (World Economic Forum, 2024). Governments face the dilemma of attracting investments from tech giants while protecting public interests. The lack of diversity in AI development leads to biased outcomes, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. Are we considering the global impacts of our AI advancements, or are we perpetuating existing inequalities?

We are currently in the “inter-AI years,” a brief window to influence the trajectory of AI development before norms, values, and standards become entrenched (Cohen & Lee, 2023). Decisions made today will shape the future of AI and its impact on global power dynamics. This period is crucial for determining the path of AI, and it is vital that we get it right. AI’s potential to boost economic growth is enormous, with estimates suggesting that widespread AI adoption could increase global GDP by nearly $7 trillion over ten years (Cohen & Lee, 2023). However, realizing these benefits depends on the availability of energy, computing power, data, and models, not even mentioning AI literacy.

To leverage AI for global peace, we must move beyond mere regulatory frameworks and embrace a collaborative and inclusive approach. The UN’s role in promoting international cooperation is crucial. As AI continues to evolve, the question remains: Will we harness AI to create a more peaceful and just world, or will short-sighted national interests undermine its potential and allow it to further destabilize global relations? Time will tell. I personally see great potential for a better world where we augment our human abilities and capabilities with cognitive technologies. However, I would also like to emphasize that diplomacy thrives on the art of empathy, personal connection, and building trust – qualities I can’t imagine machines ever truly mastering.

References and Resources Used

Anthony, A., Sharma, L.; and Noor, E. (2024). Advancing a More Global Agenda for Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence. Link

Cohen, J. and Lee, G. (2023). The generative world order: AI, geopolitics, and power. Link

Dyvik, E., H. (2024). Global military spending from 2001 to 2023. Link

Garcia, E., V. (2020). Multilateralism and Artificial Intelligence: What Role for the United Nations? Link

Georgieva, K. (2024). AI Will Transform the Global Economy. Let’s Make Sure It Benefits Humanity. Link

International Peace Institute. (2023). A Measure of Peace: Key Findings from the 2023 Global Peace Index. Link

International Crisis Group. (2024). 10 Conflicts to Watch in 2024. Link

International Rescue Committee (2024). 110 million people displaced around the world: get the facts. Link

Pasquini, N. (2024). Proactive AI Policy. Link

Sabbagh, D. (2024). More civilian casualties recorded in 2023 than any year since 2010. Link

Salhani, J. (2024). Iran’s response to Israel looms. What are the possible scenarios? Link

Vision of Humanity. (2024). Highest number of countries engaged in conflict since World War II. Link

World Economic Forum. (2024). Artificial Intelligence: The Geopolitical Impacts of AI. Link

Zhou, L. (2024). Russia and China compare notes on ‘military use of artificial intelligence’. Link


About the Author:

With a diverse background in human behavior, criminal psychology, leadership, diplomacy, development, and peacebuilding, Livia is committed to fostering understanding and growth on both personal and societal levels. As a strategic partnerships and communications expert with over 10 years of international experience, she has spent the last 6+ years in the AI industry, collaborating with hundreds of AI experts and leaders globally. Livia seeks out less-traveled paths and embraces challenges with a realist-idealist approach, living by the motto: “Reach for the sky, and you will get to the stars.”

Der Beitrag AI in Diplomacy: Can Technology Foster a More Peaceful World? erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
125872
How Investors Can Shape AI for the Benefit of Workers https://swisscognitive.ch/2024/03/23/how-investors-can-shape-ai-for-the-benefit-of-workers/ Sat, 23 Mar 2024 04:44:00 +0000 https://swisscognitive.ch/?p=125110 Investors play a pivotal role in directing AI towards benefiting workers, highlighting a shift towards responsible technology integration.

Der Beitrag How Investors Can Shape AI for the Benefit of Workers erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
As the world of work is reshaped by AI, there are opportunities within the critical, fast-growing care sector to enable and support a workforce facing acute shortages.

 

Copyright: ssir.org – “How Investors Can Shape AI for the Benefit of Workers”


 

SwissCognitive_Logo_RGBThe world of work is changing. AI’s impact on work and workers is an inescapable conversation right now everywhere from the World Economic Forum and the White House, to American union halls, Fortune 100 board rooms, and VC cocktail parties. AI is poised to alter everything from how customer service questions get answered to diagnosing cancer. Here we will skip the false precision of predicting exactly how many jobs will be dislocated and instead focus on how we can envision and incentivize the beneficial impacts of AI for both workers and society.

As venture investors, we are constantly hunting for big, audacious ideas that can produce outsized returns for our investors. But we also didn’t get into this industry without the fundamental belief that the future can be made better than the present. That’s not techno-utopianism but rather a recognition that there are numerous levers within capital that can shape the future we want to live in. If we choose to use them. And as the world of work is reshaped by AI, we believe there are opportunities within our critical, fast-growing care economy sector to enable and support a workforce with the biggest shortages in the United States.

AI and the Future of Work: What Stays and What Goes?

AI’s fundamental skill is pattern recognition at a staggering scale. This means that many administrative and analytical tasks like note-taking, scheduling, data reconciliation, and summarization will be reduced dramatically. It is true that jobs will be lost in these areas. But the ones that remain may become higher quality and higher paying. For example, think of a nurse manager or a teacher who no longer needs to devote 40% of their time to jockeying a schedule or designing slides and worksheets. Instead, they can lean into the uniquely human elements of their job in ways that require emotional and contextual assessment and insight that technology cannot replicate. AI will isolate and highlight these soft skills in ways that will make them more valuable and potentially higher compensated.

AI also has the potential to lower the barriers to entry to many jobs, including technical ones. We’ve seen this same scenario play out with other technological leaps forward, time and time again. Think of the way online maps and navigation made becoming a London black cab driver more accessible, no longer requiring decades to earn “The Knowledge” of every side street. Now that AI can synthesize huge volumes of information and deliver it at the moment of need—to a technician repairing a downed telephone pole, to a nurse wondering which needle gauge to use, to a young engineer who can automate her code production—the workforce will actually become more fungible.[…]

Read more: www.ssir.org

Der Beitrag How Investors Can Shape AI for the Benefit of Workers erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
125110
The Urgent Case for Upskilling Employees in the AI Age https://swisscognitive.ch/2024/02/22/the-urgent-case-for-upskilling-employees-in-the-ai-age/ Thu, 22 Feb 2024 04:44:00 +0000 https://swisscognitive.ch/?p=124969 When AI could displace millions of jobs, investing in employees' reskilling and upskilling emerges as a vital strategy for businesses.

Der Beitrag The Urgent Case for Upskilling Employees in the AI Age erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
When AI could displace millions of jobs, investing in employees’ reskilling and upskilling emerges as a vital strategy for businesses to bridge the skills gap and embrace technological advancement.

 

SwissCognitive Guest Blogger: Reddy Mallidi – “The Urgent Case for Upskilling Employees in the AI Age”


 

Artificial intelligence (AI) could potentially displace 30% of activities across 60% of occupations in the next few years. That’s over 85 million jobs gone by 2025 according to World Economic Forum estimates. Yet even amidst this looming unemployment crisis, companies already report shortages for skilled talent to develop and manage new AI systems.

This growing mismatch between human skills and those needed to thrive in an AI-powered world signals an urgent need for businesses to invest in reskilling and upskilling their workforces. Otherwise, the disconnect will likely worsen, causing substantial unemployment and loss of competitive edge.

The Skills Gap Widens

On the one hand, AI and automation are making some jobs redundant. Cashiers, Customer Service specialists, accountants and even radiologists among others may face displacement with the advent of AI.

Simultaneously, these technologies are creating new specialized roles like AI researchers, data analysts, machine learning engineers and automation specialists. Positions requiring technical expertise to build, implement and manage AI systems are seeing a surge in demand. But talent supply is scarce even amidst increasing unemployment.

This bifurcation is causing a skills gap across industries. Employers are forced to choose between two less than ideal options – either invest significant resources to retrain existing employees or compete for expensive external talent in an overheated job market. Both choices have heavy cost and productivity implications.

Real-World Challenges for Companies

Inability to access qualified talent hampers competitiveness for firms racing to deploy AI. An IBM survey found that inadequate skills was the top barrier to AI adoption for over half of North American executives. Companies investing in upskilling will gain an advantage over those lacking capable staff to leverage AI.

Moreover, lack of future-ready skills magnifies displacement risks for employees. With no reskilling support, redundancies and unemployment likely will rise.

The business case for investing in retraining and upskilling is clear when we consider these talent challenges companies face today:

  • Shortage of qualified talent for emerging tech-driven roles.
  • High costs and effort competing for external hires.
  • Loss of institutional knowledge as people leave.
  • Reduced competitiveness against rivals deploying AI rapidly.
  • Growing skills gaps and displacement leading to higher unemployment

Upskilling: A Win-Win for Employers and Workers

While the scale of disruption is daunting, it presents exciting upskilling opportunities through training programs tailored to build capabilities for new roles.

Amazon is heavily investing in upskilling and reskilling initiatives to build AI capabilities of employees with their Machine Learning University. Adobe’s Digital Academy helped several employees transition to data-focused roles and upskilled employees saw a salary increase of $30-100K. Deloitte has launched the Deloitte AI Academy, a program aimed at educating the next generation of AI professionals. As part of Deloitte’s initiative to train up to 10,000 professionals in AI. Deloitte AI Academy has expanded its curriculum to include Generative AI training that both practitioners and clients can tap into.

These examples demonstrate that targeted reskilling delivers manifold benefits beyond filling open positions:

  • Preserves valuable institutional knowledge.
  • Motivates and engages employees by investing in their growth.
  • Shows commitment to workforce employability and mobility.
  • Allows filling of critical skills gaps from within
  • Saves costs of external recruitment and onboarding

With adaptable vision, companies can cultivate the talent they need within existing teams. Reskilling helps workers remain relevant amidst seismic technological shifts.

Recommendations for Successful Reskilling Initiatives

Here are some best practices for executing effective workforce upskilling:

  • Conduct skills gap analysis to identify role-based deficits.
  • Curate customized programs blending technical and soft skills.
  • Offer incentives like bonuses, promotions and certifications.
  • Seek partnerships with online learning platforms and academia.
  • Leverage government aid for subsidized training initiatives.
  • Promote a culture of continuous learning and growth mindset.

The future of work will require new collaborations between humans and AI. With pragmatic and compassionate leadership, companies can upskill workforces to harness the full potential of technological progress. The result will be more inclusive prosperity and promising futures for both business and society.


About the Author:

Reddy Mallidi is an eminent business executive, an AI visionary with over 25+ years of leadership in operational excellence, digital transformation, and customer experience, and author of the “AI Unleashed – Harness the Power of AI to Transform Your Business” book. As a Partner and COO at Seventrain Ventures, he delivered multimillion $ value using AI and Automation to his clients. Previously he held executive roles at Intel, Autodesk, and ADP. Beyond his impressive accomplishments, Reddy remains grounded by his humble beginnings and unwavering belief in the human potential and sees AI as a tool to empower people and drive positive change in the world.

Der Beitrag The Urgent Case for Upskilling Employees in the AI Age erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
124969
Leaders on AI https://swisscognitive.ch/2024/01/21/leaders-on-ai/ Sun, 21 Jan 2024 04:44:00 +0000 https://swisscognitive.ch/?p=124616 AI news from the global cross-industry ecosystem brought to the community in 200+ countries every week by SwissCognitive.

Der Beitrag Leaders on AI erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
Dear AI Enthusiast,

The latest news in the world of AI: Anthropic’s substantial investment, Davos’ vital discussions on the metaverse and AI ethics,  and AI’s transformative influence in corporate giants.

Read about AI’s role in narrowing the digital gap and Google DeepMind’s exceptional problem-solving prowess.

Witness the fusion of human ingenuity with AI precision and examine healthcare’s AI evolution inspired by aviation’s strict safety standards.

Enjoy, and #ShareForSuccess!

Best regards, 🌞

The Team of SwissCognitive

Der Beitrag Leaders on AI erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
124616
The Future of Tech and Capital – SwissCognitive AI Investment Radar https://swisscognitive.ch/2024/01/17/the-future-of-tech-and-capital-swisscognitive-ai-investment-radar/ Wed, 17 Jan 2024 04:44:00 +0000 https://swisscognitive.ch/?p=124531 The AI landscape is full of dynamic investments and groundbreaking advancements. Find out more in the SwissCognitive AI Investment Radar.

Der Beitrag The Future of Tech and Capital – SwissCognitive AI Investment Radar erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
As we venture into 2024, the AI landscape is full of dynamic investments and groundbreaking advancements. This edition of our radar captures AI’s transformative journey – from the bustling corridors of Davos to the innovative spaces of startups, redefining the global investment map.

 

The Future of Tech and Capital – SwissCognitive AI Investment Radar


 

SwissCognitive_Logo_RGBIn a stunning development, AI startup Anthropic, rivaling OpenAI, secures a whopping $750 million, pushing its valuation to new heights. This strategic move by Menlo Ventures, using an innovative funding approach, underscores the vibrant and competitive nature of the AI sector.

The travel industry isn’t left behind, with Steller, an AI-driven trip planner, bagging $5 million in funding. This investment reflects the growing allure of AI in transforming travel experiences.

CTOs from giants like Papa John’s and Canva are now harnessing AI to drive innovation and efficiency. Their focus on AI-enabled tools illustrates AI’s role as a creative and productive force in various business domains.

IBM’s research reveals that while a significant number of organizations actively deploy AI, challenges like skill gaps and ethical concerns persist. This situation underscores the need for a balanced approach to AI adoption in businesses.

The future of AI looks dynamic and promising, with experts predicting more sustainable models and open-source AI as emerging trends. As AI continues to reshape technology, strategic and selective funding will become crucial for startups.

The AI Investment Radar highlights the ongoing transformation in the AI landscape, offering insights into how AI is redefining the economy and business strategies across various sectors.

Previous SwissCognitive AI Investments Radar: Strategic Alliances and Emerging Innovations in Tech Funding.

Our article does not offer financial advice and should not be considered a recommendation to engage in any securities or products. Investments carry the risk of decreasing in value, and investors may potentially lose a portion or all of their investment. Past performance should not be relied upon as an indicator of future results.

Der Beitrag The Future of Tech and Capital – SwissCognitive AI Investment Radar erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
124531
Reflecting On 2023: A Year Of Technological Wonders And The Future That Awaits In 2024 https://swisscognitive.ch/2024/01/09/reflecting-on-2023-a-year-of-technological-wonders-and-the-future-that-awaits-in-2024/ Tue, 09 Jan 2024 04:44:00 +0000 https://swisscognitive.ch/?p=124406 2023 marked a year of technological revolution, highlighted by the rise of Generative AI and advancements in Quantum Computing.

Der Beitrag Reflecting On 2023: A Year Of Technological Wonders And The Future That Awaits In 2024 erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
2023 was the year of a new technological revolution, with the rise of Generative AI and advancements in Quantum Computing.

 

SwissCognitive Guest Blogger:  Utpal Chakraborty, Chief Technology Officer, IntellAI NeoTech – “Reflecting On 2023: A Year Of Technological Wonders And The Future That Awaits In 2024”


 

We can admit that 2023 was a year of technological revolution. We witnessed the explosive rise of Generative AI, the increasing interconnectedness of the digital world, and the gradual ascent of Quantum Computing. As we stand on the crossover of 2024, reflecting on the technological revolution of 2023 brings into focus a transformative year for Information Technology. Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) has taken centre stage, with advancements and applications proliferating at an unprecedented pace. The past year witnessed a surge in the development and deployment of generative AI models, revolutionizing sectors from healthcare to finance, to entertainment and beyond.

Key Developments and Figures:

  • Generative AI models became more sophisticated with some achieving near-human levels of creativity and understanding.
  • Adoption across industries soared with a reported increase of over 60% in enterprises integrating generative AI into their operations as co-pilot and into different applications.
  • Investment in AI research and development reached new heights with billions of dollars allocated globally.

Bright Prospects: The Expanding Horizons of Generative AI in 2024

2023 was the year when Generative AI became capable of creating novel content like text, code, and even images, broke free from the confines of research labs and into the mainstream. Generative AI models like of DALL-E 2 and Midjourney captivated the world with their ability to generate photorealistic images from mere text prompts while GPT-4 showcased its uncanny ability to craft human-quality prose. The impact was immediate, industries from advertising to design, media to medicine, saw the potential of AI-powered content creation. A study by PwC predicts that Generative AI will add $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030.

Insights for the Future:

  • By the end of 2024, generative AI is projected to contribute upwards of $1 trillion to the global economy.
  • Customization and personalization services powered by AI are anticipated to become the norm, enhancing user experience and efficiency.
  • The integration of AI with other emerging technologies, like the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain, is set to unlock new potential.

Quantum Computing is the Next Frontier

While Generative AI steals the spotlight, Quantum Computing (QC) is making waves in its own way. Although still in its nascent stages, the field is advancing rapidly, promising to tackle problems beyond the reach of classical computers. In 2023, significant milestones in quantum research and infrastructure laid the groundwork for future breakthroughs.

Quantum Leap:

  • Global investment in quantum technology saw a substantial increase, signaling strong confidence in its future.
  • Partnerships between academia, industry and government intensified, driving forward the quantum agenda.
  • Experts predict that within the next few years, quantum computing will begin solving complex problems in areas like drug discovery, logistics and cryptography.

The Imperative of Ethical and Responsible AI

As we embrace these technological advancements, the importance of ethical and responsible AI usage has become paramount. The call for transparent, fair & accountable AI systems is echoed worldwide, urging developers, enterprises, and governments to adhere to ethical standards.

Responsible Innovation:

  • Policies and frameworks for responsible AI use have been implemented globally gradually, with an emphasis on privacy, security and fairness.
  • Initiatives to educate and raise awareness about the ethical implications of AI have been rolled out across educational institutions and organizations.
  • The establishment of ethics boards and review committees has become more common, ensuring oversight and accountability.

Investing in the Future

The technological revolution of 2023 is a proof to human ingenuity, but a strong call to action in the same time. Enterprises and governments are encouraged to invest in these burgeoning technologies, fostering innovation and securing a competitive edge.

Strategic Investments:

  • Increased funding for AI and quantum computing research is imperative to maintain momentum and achieve breakthroughs.
  • Collaboration between the public and private sectors can accelerate development and application.
  • Education and workforce development in these fields are crucial to prepare for the demands of tomorrow.

A Call to Embrace the AI Future:

The mentioned advancements in AI necessitate a proactive approach from both enterprises and governments. Businesses must invest in building AI-powered solutions and upskilling their workforce to thrive in the new landscape. Governments, meanwhile, need to foster responsible AI development by establishing ethical guidelines and addressing potential bias issues. The World Economic Forum’s “Principles for Responsible AI”  offer a valuable framework for this endeavor.

While concerns about job displacement and ethical implications remain, the potential benefits of AI are vast. By embracing AI responsibly and proactively, we can step into a future where technology augments human capabilities, creating a world of unimaginable possibilities.

2024 has arrived, and we can expect Generative AI to create something spectacular.

Der Beitrag Reflecting On 2023: A Year Of Technological Wonders And The Future That Awaits In 2024 erschien zuerst auf SwissCognitive | AI Ventures, Advisory & Research.

]]>
124406