VOLUME. 38 NO. 6
Is there a connection between freelancing or outsourcing and the world of innovation? This question came to mind after considering two key themes in this month’s issue. And the answer is unequivocal: “Yes.”
Freelancing and talent outsourcing, this month’s featured topics, are growing and becoming more global, touching a variety of industries, professions and roles. The growth of freelancing is happening in advanced and emerging economies, small and large countries, and in new and traditional workplaces and is attracting increasing attention from regulators. This trend, which is not new but has expanded significantly over the past few years, has been made possible by many innovations. This applies to traditional and non-traditional companies, even virtual ones, so much so that many of us will be surprised by some of the details and statistics offered in Bill Hinchberger’s story.
Our annual Innovation Awards, which we present in this edition, provide insight into the present and future of financial services. We recognize banks and fintech companies for their specific innovations as well as their comprehensive innovation efforts, and recognize the best in these areas from region to region. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now and is currently the dominant topic for all participants. However, all the proposals presented here are aimed at solving specific, rather than potential problems. As a result, our selection of awards highlights some of the applications of AI in supply chain, logistics, data science, machine learning, marketing and talent outsourcing. And solve specific problems related to cash flow, liquidity management and supply chain efficiency.
Again, as with freelancing, innovation is global, but winning solutions come from many different regions of the world and financial institutions or fintech companies of all sizes. It bears repeating: innovation is the key to growth.
Andrea Fiano | Chief Editor
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