Monthly Archives: April 2024

Cryptocurrency

Maximizing Opportunities in the Bitcoin Halving Event: Tips for the Retail Investor

As the anticipation for the next Bitcoin halving intensifies, retail investors are closely monitoring the crypto market for potential impacts. This event, expected to occur in mid-April, will see the rewards for mining a block halved once again. It will continue Bitcoin’s tradition of reducing block rewards approximately every four years.

The history of Bitcoin halving gives us an understanding of its market trajectory after these events. According to Fidelity Asset Management, three previous halvings lead to substantial price surges post-event:

  • Within 371 days after the first halving (November 28, 2012), the BTC rate surged 10,485%.
  • After the second halving event (July 9, 2016), the price increased by 3,103% within the next 525 days.
  • Within 546 days after the third halving (May 11, 2020), the BTC rate jumped 707%.

 

The halving event not only affects miners but also has broader implications for Bitcoin holders and the cryptocurrency market at large. Historical data illustrates a pattern of price increases following halvings. However, it’s crucial to remember that past performance does not necessarily indicate future results. This is why investors must have a strategic approach to investment in such a volatile market.

What Strategies Would Be The Best for Retail Investors?

Here are some tips that will help investors maximize their opportunities:

  • Do not try to time the market – Bitcoin’s price movements are unpredictable. Consider using a dollar-cost averaging strategy involving regular investments in BTC regardless of its fluctuating prices. This method can help reduce the emotional rollercoaster of investing, balancing the potential for high returns against the risk of significant losses.
  • The cryptocurrency market is known for its volatility, so making educated investment decisions is essential. Do thorough research and risk management, and diversify your portfolio to reduce risks. Understanding the market, risk tolerance, and having a clear investment strategy are crucial for successful cryptocurrency investments.
  • The broader economic landscape, including inflation rates and global macroeconomic factors, plays a significant role in the crypto market. Shifts in global financial indicators can influence Bitcoin’s rate. So it is important to have a well-rounded approach to investment that considers various market drivers.
  • The intrinsic characteristics of Bitcoin, particularly its scarcity and deflationary nature, built by the halving events, attract investors. These mechanisms prove Bitcoin’s potential as a long-term store of value, differentiating it from traditional assets. Understanding these unique attributes becomes increasingly important for retail investors as the crypto market matures.

 

Looking ahead, the impact of the upcoming halving on the cryptocurrency exchange rates and the broader financial ecosystem remains to be seen. However, it reinforces Bitcoin’s core characteristics as a scarce and decentralized asset. For retail investors, this means the necessity of approaching the halving with a well-informed strategy, focusing on long-term trends rather than short-term fluctuations.

As we approach the next BTC halving, retail investors are advised to conduct thorough research, adopt a disciplined investment strategy like dollar-cost averaging, and remain mindful of the broader economic environment. By understanding the historical significance of halvings and their potential impact on the market, investors can better cope with the complexities of the crypto market.

Appointments, Business & Property News, Technology, Wiltshire News

New MD takes over at IT firm Mintivo as founder steps aside after six years of rapid growth

WILTSHIRE IT services and solutions company Mintivo has appointed Alex Jukes as its new Managing Director after a fifth consecutive year of growth, with 2022-23 seeing a more than 45 per cent increase in turnover.

Founder Chris Gough is stepping aside as MD, although he will remain a member of the Chippenham company’s board.

Mr Jukes, who joined the company three years ago and has more than ten years’ experience in the sector, said: “I’m really excited about this new role because it’s always been my ambition to get to this type of position.

“I’m fortunate because I’m taking it on at a time where the company is incredibly stable and when we have a strong team in general but particularly a really strong management team who I will be able to lean on.”

He said clients won’t notice the change because the company will maintain its focus on customer service. “It’s going to be business as usual,” he said. “We’re not going to make any major changes but we’re going to try and highlight opportunities to change things for the better at the same time.

“We will look at how we make sure that people who work for us get the opportunities they want. In our market although the most important thing is retaining customers, it is also essential to retain the right people, because people buy from people.”

Executive Chairman Steve Healy said: “We see this as a fantastic opportunity for Alex to step into the role of managing director, he brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to excellence, making him the ideal candidate to lead Mintivo into its next phase of growth.”

Mr Gough, who is also a non-executive director at Wiltshire Friendly Society, said the move has been planned for more than six months and that he will be looking to become involved in other projects while supporting Mintivo as an advisor to the board. “It has been an absolute honour to lead this remarkable team since we started the company back in 2018 and I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together,” he said.

“We have an exceptional leadership team who will undoubtedly continue growing Mintivo. I am privileged to have worked alongside such talented individuals, and I have every confidence that they will continue to drive our company forward with the same passion and dedication.”

Mr Jukes said he has made maintaining customer service a priority for the year ahead. “Since day one we’ve reinvested in the business, whether it be people or systems,” he said.

“The goal for us is to keep growing, but our reinvesting over the last five years has put us in a strong position. We will continue to reinvest to underpin our growth, while ensuring we partner with customers that value IT.”

He said the company will make a major investment into upgrading its ITSM system. “Our team is excited about the capabilities of what we’re doing, it’s going to enable them to spend more time on things they want to be doing rather than on administration. It’s going to make us more efficient while allowing our teams to focus on our customers,” said Mr Jukes.

The last year’s growth has been driven by attracting new customers who want to evolve and develop their environment through the use of Cloud technologies. Mr Jukes said: “Our goal is to partner with organisations who want to leverage more from their IT, organisations who want to approach IT in a strategic way and see us as a valuable partner.”

Mintivo’s early clients tended to be in highly regulated sectors including financial services and defence, hence the unusual amount of security and compliance accreditation for a firm of its size, but recent years have seen its client base expand into recruitment, professional services, hospitality and its largest recent growth area, the charity sector. In the last few months it has become the long-term strategic partner for Dorothy House Hospice near Bath, Wiltshire Air Ambulance and Bristol Drug Project.

The company has seen an rise in new customers enquiring about IT support and strategic guidance, averaging two new customers a month with the aim of beginning their digital transformation. “I think the key for us and our growth is not purely down to bringing in new customers, but ensuring we are a good fit for the customers’ needs and we attract customers who want to go on the journey together and who see the value in IT,” said Mr Jukes.

“Our customer attrition is incredibly low and we want to continue to look after all of the customers that have trusted us so far.”

Find out more about the company’s services at mintivo.co.uk.

Data & Analytics

Recruitment, skills and labour pressures felt by Welsh businesses in Q1

Businesses in Wales are continuing to face challenges regarding recruitment, the ongoing skills shortage and labour costs, according to Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey.

In the survey for Q1 of 2024, 46% of businesses in Wales reported that they had attempted to recruit staff, predominantly for full-time and permanent roles. 69% of those who attempted to recruit experienced difficulties in finding suitable staff, a 5% increase compared to the previous quarter, with businesses citing finding candidates with the correct skill sets and qualifications as barriers to recruitment and meeting salary expectations as a challenge for retention.

Salaries and other labour costs were also stated as a key business pressure, with 75% of businesses in Wales feeling under pressure to raise their prices because of these costs. This is also reflected in the national picture with the British Chambers of Commerce reporting that 68% of UK businesses cited labour and staffing costs as their main cost pressure.

However, despite these challenges, there is optimism. 46% of Welsh businesses believe that turnover and profitability will improve over the next 12 months.

Paul Butterworth, CEO of Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid, said: “The results are a timely reminder of the ongoing challenges businesses in Wales face, particularly around ongoing issues such as recruitment, skills development and employee retention.

“While the economy is caught in a low-to-no growth cycle and managing the effects of interest rates and inflation, businesses have been hesitant to invest in training and skills. With consistent and lower inflation, we hope that the Bank of England will lower interest rates to stimulate investment into skills and the seeds of economic growth.

“In the new first minister’s leadership manifesto, he included pledges to provide flexible and timely reskilling opportunities, a much-needed reinvestment in apprenticeships and developing regional sectoral skill centres for excellence. It is our ask that he starts to deliver on his pledges to rekindle Wales’ productivity levels, a skilled Welsh workforce and business support for economic growth.”

The latest edition of the Quarterly Economic Survey also included questions specific to changes happening in Wales such as the election of the new first minister and the new workplace recycling law.

94% of businesses in Wales had heard about the workplace recycling law which came into effect from 6 April, with 71% aware of the changes and how it affected their business.

Over a quarter (26%) of Welsh businesses were aware of the recycling changes but were unaware of how it affected their organisation and only 3% were unaware of the changes or how it affected their business. These businesses suggested that clarity, simple guidelines and research would help them comply with the new law.

Business & Property News, Commercial Property, Commercial Property News, News, North of England

Fairfield Business Park in Penistone sold to lead tenant

Fairfield Business Park in Penistone, Barnsley, has been sold in a multi-million-pound deal.

Over the past two years, the site has been fully developed from being unoccupied into a thriving business park by family-run, Barnsley-based property and land specialists, Fairbank Investments Ltd.

The fully-let park has been bought by international packaging business Neal Brothers, for a seven-figure sum. Neal Brothers are the main tenants on the site, running their export packaging business from their onsite warehouse.

Located in the heart of Penistone, the historic former David Brown plant shut at the end of 2020 when former owner, SPX, transferred its production and manufacturing processes to an alternative UK production site, leading to job losses and vacant premises.

The 1930s factory development, once a major manufacturing hub employing more than 1,500 people at its peak production period, was given a new lease of life after being acquired by Fairbank Investments in March 2021.

Fairbank Investments bought the four-acre Green Road site after spotting its huge potential to create employment and restore economic prosperity to the town. The development progressed with the Fairbank Investments team prioritising eco-friendly design and sensitive building practices, employing the same meticulous design and sustainability ethos displayed in all of its regeneration projects.

Opened by shipmaker Cammell Laird in the late 19th century, the site was mothballed in 1930 but taken over by industrialist Sir David Brown in 1935. Sir David established foundry, pumps and fabrication operations in Penistone which produced bullet-proof castings during the Second World War and later specialised in manufacturing pumps for the global oil and gas industry.

The park currently consists of 14 independent offices totalling 15,000 sq ft which is home to a range of flourishing independent businesses with a further 66,000 sq ft of warehouse space which has been occupied by main tenants, Neal Brothers since late 2021.

Neal Brothers’ warehouse has prime access, high eves, roller shutter doors and an overhead crane. The facility has enabled the US-based international business to extend its existing operations in the north of England. The company has recruited staff locally and the operation has grown significantly since launching three years ago.

Other successful businesses operating from the site range from financial planning experts and a construction and building specialist to numerous clothing and accessories retailers and a pet grooming salon.

Alex Sewell of Fairbank Investments, commented: “We are thrilled that our vision to revitalise a local site of such historical importance has been fully realised and we have sold the business park as a thriving commercial hub, resulting in job creation and a bright future for the area. The legacy is an important one for the town following a few years of uncertainty but there is a diverse range of businesses on site, which have all created local employment opportunities and fully regenerated the area.

Added Joseph Green of Fairbank Investments: “When the production facility closed in 2020 during the coronavirus pandemic, this resulted in widespread redundancies, and the future of the site in Penistone looked incredibly bleak. As a local family business in the area and living locally ourselves, we wanted to take positive action and restore the site to its former glory, fully benefitting the town and the local economy. We are incredibly proud and satisfied that we’ve achieved this objective and have left the business park in very secure and capable hands. We will watch with interest as the site continues to flourish and the businesses on site go on to even greater success. As a progressive property business, we look forward to delivering similar outcomes for existing and new local regeneration projects.”

Two years ago Fairbank Investments acquired the historic partially Grade II-listed coal drops, signal house, and former railway siding site at Penistone in Barnsley, signalling a new chapter of growth and development for the area.

It recently unveiled the highly anticipated next phase of development for the site. With the next stage of the site’s transformative journey, Fairbank Investments is marking a significant moment in Penistone’s history, with the development promising an inspiring blend of heritage preservation and modern rejuvenation.

—

Pictured: (Left) Joseph Green and Alex Sewell (right) of Fairbank Investments Ltd who have sold the Fairfield Business Park in Penistone to Neal Brothers.

 

Job Opportunities, Jobs, News

Homesitters launches recruitment drive ahead of peak summer season

As summer approaches Homesitters Ltd, the UK’s leading home and pet sitting company, is actively seeking new homesitters ahead of the peak holiday season and is highlighting the benefits of the role including travel opportunities and boosting income.

A report in February from 50+ Choices Roundtable found that one third (3.6 million) of over-50s are engaged in part-time work and 72 per cent want to have flexibility in their work[i].

Other research from Fred Olsen Cruise Lines shows almost a quarter (24%) of 55 and overs say they have got more adventurous with age and three in 10 (29%) travel more now they are retired than they did previously.[ii]

Ben Irvine, Director of Operations at Homesitters Ltd said: “Homesitting is an attractive role for older people who want to be active in retirement or gradually transition to retirement. The chance to travel more is a significant draw for many, and as the role is flexible, it can easily fit around other commitments.

“People can choose as many assignments as they wish and some only work in the summer to take advantage of the lighter days to see new places. We operate nationally, so it is a fantastic opportunity to travel around the UK without paying for hotels or B&Bs. It’s also a great way to spend time with pets, typically dogs and cats, which is a major highlight of the role.”

Homesitters receive a modest remuneration, a food allowance and mileage plus they can make savings on their bills when on assignment. Combined with the travel perks, the role offers a fulfilling way to supplement pension income.

Sharon Payne, 60, from Milton Keynes, discovered homesitting in 2018 after taking early retirement. She was looking for a job that wasn’t office based and found homesitting the ideal fit as it gave her the chance to travel, spend time with pets, and earn a modest income.

Sharon said: “Homesitting may sound like a low key job but it comes with major responsibility as people’s homes and pets are the most important things in people’s lives, apart from their children.”

Sharon enjoys meeting interesting people on assignment. Talking about one of her most memorable assignments she said: “I stayed in a beautiful old house in a small village where I looked after two dogs – and 35 tortoises. I really enjoyed looking after them, although I had to keep going to the local shop for more salad as they eat a kilo of salad every day between them! They are quite low maintenance and mostly put themselves to bed at night although I did have to check they were all in their beds and look for any stragglers.”

Other memorable home sits include staying in a gorgeous Tudor mansion in Cambridgeshire with landscaped gardens and a swimming pool and looking after an extremely well behaved dog near Chelmsford who, when he got muddy, would sit by the door and lift his paws one by one for Sharon to wash and wait to be towel dried off before venturing into the house.

Sharon appreciates the income she receives and is saving money. She explained: “The salary is modest but what I earn I don’t spend. I’ve noticed that since I started home sitting my gas, electric and water bills are significantly lower – my water company keeps reducing my monthly payment. I also get a food allowance, so I eat for free while I’m on assignment.”

Homesitters is currently recruiting. Ideal candidates are responsible and reliable people, who are good listeners, and will be sensitive to clients’ requirements. Proven pet-care skills and a genuine affinity for animals are also a bonus.

For more information and to apply to become a homesitter visit: www.homesitters.co.uk

[i] https://www.peoplemanagement.co.uk/article/1861758/cipd-led-over-50s-report-calls-job-ads-promote-flexible-working

[ii] https://travelweekly.co.uk/news/tourism/golden-gap-year-trend-spotted-as-adventurous-retirees-save-up-to-travel

Branding, Tradesmen

Building Trust Brick by Brick: The Importance of Local Tradespeople

In an industry where trust is valued, the choice of a tradesperson to invite into our homes becomes more than just a matter of skill; it’s about reliability, communication, and a personal touch. According to recent data from Clothes2order, a staggering 93% of Brits prefer to hire independent and local tradespeople. This preference highlights the significance of community connections and personalised service in the realm of home services. Let’s delve deeper into why local tradespeople hold such sway and how they build trust brick by brick.

The Heart of the Community: Local Tradespeople

Tradespeople form the backbone of our communities. Whether it’s building a home, fixing some leaky plumbing, rewiring a room, or landscaping a garden, their work shapes the spaces where we live our lives. Yet, amidst the many tradespeople available, why do so many of us opt for local, independent contractors over larger firms?

The Trust Factor

The findings from this survey echo a sentiment ingrained in many of us: trust is paramount. When inviting someone into our homes to work on projects big or small, we seek assurance beyond mere competence. We want reliability, accountability, and a personal connection. Local tradespeople often embody these qualities, forming trust through their proximity and familiarity.

The Qualities That Matter Most Revealed

Skill and Attention to Detail

Unsurprisingly, a high skill level coupled with attention to detail emerged as the top priority for 79% of participants surveyed. In the realm of home services, proficiency is non-negotiable. From precision plumbing to flawless carpentry, customers expect nothing short of excellence.

Reliability

Close on the heels of skill is reliability, cited by 75% of respondents as a crucial trait in a tradesperson. Timely arrivals, adherence to deadlines, and consistent quality of work are the cornerstones upon which trust is built.

Communication and Transparency

Effective communication emerged as another key determinant of customer satisfaction, with 59% of participants valuing regular updates throughout the project. Clear and transparent communication fosters understanding, mitigates misunderstandings, and instils confidence in the client-tradesperson relationship.

Respect and Professionalism

Beyond technical prowess, participants also emphasised the importance of respect for property and tidiness, albeit to a lesser extent (24%). A tradesperson’s demeanour, appearance, and conduct speak volumes about their professionalism and commitment to delivering a superior customer experience.

The Role of Personalised Workwear in Building Trust

In the realm of service-based industries, first impressions count. Uniforms or personalised workwear not only project a professional image but also serve as potent brand ambassadors. Here’s why investing in customised attire can pay dividends in building brand awareness and forming trust:

Brand Recognition

Consistent branding, including uniforms with a logo, helps tradespeople stand out in a crowded marketplace. Customers are more likely to remember and recommend businesses with a strong visual identity, thereby amplifying brand visibility and recognition within the community.

Professionalism and Credibility

A smart, uniform appearance instils confidence and reassurance in customers, signalling professionalism, reliability, and attention to detail. Personalised workwear communicates a commitment to quality and consistency, elevating the perception of the tradesperson’s expertise and credibility.

Navigating Red Flags: Pitfalls to Avoid

While the majority of tradespeople uphold high standards of professionalism and integrity, occasional lapses can erode trust and tarnish reputations. Here are some common red flags highlighted by participants in their dealings with tradespeople:

Hidden Fees and Pricing Changes

Ambiguity surrounding costs or unexpected price hikes can sour the customer experience and breed mistrust. Transparent pricing and upfront communication are essential in fostering transparency and preserving customer confidence.

Communication Breakdowns

Poor communication, whether in the form of unreturned calls, vague project timelines, or lack of updates, can leave clients feeling frustrated and uninformed. Open channels of communication and proactive engagement are vital in nurturing positive client-tradesperson relationships.

Delays and Disruptions

Unforeseen delays or disruptions to work schedules can inconvenience clients and undermine trust in the tradesperson’s reliability and professionalism. While some delays may be unavoidable, clear communication and proactive problem-solving can help mitigate their impact and preserve goodwill.

Cleanliness and Respect for Property

Leaving a mess behind or showing disregard for the client’s property reflects poorly on the tradesperson’s professionalism and attention to detail. Respect for the client’s home, coupled with a commitment to cleanliness and tidiness, is paramount in delivering a positive customer experience.

As consumers, we gravitate towards tradespeople who not only possess the requisite skills but also embody the values of trust, reliability, and professionalism. By prioritising these qualities and investing in personalised workwear that reflects their brand identity, local tradespeople can forge stronger connections with their clients, enhance brand visibility, and lay the foundation for lasting success in their communities.

Creative News

6 steps to staircase heaven

Okay, so probably not the most exciting element of a home, but we’ll bet it is one of the most well-used!

Essential for most properties, a staircase is typically one of the first things you see when you walk through the front door. But wherever they’re positioned, they’re a key feature – which means they can set the tone for your whole property.

Want stairs you love the look of?

Follow our quick guide and you’re just 6 steps away from transforming your staircase – and your home!

 

Step #1 – Paint your staircase

You’ll be pleased to hear that breathing new life into your staircase doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune and a load of mess and upheaval. Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best – so why not give your staircase a completely new look with a coat of paint?

Opt for a vibrant colour to make stairs pop against the surrounding décor, go modern with a striking dark shade, or if you want to lift and brighten the space, try painting wooden stairs white. The effects can be pretty impressive.

 

Step #2 – Replace balustrades

Paint not going to cut it? Are your balustrades damaged or just not in keeping with the vibe you want to create? Well, there’s no need to stress. You can replace balustrades without having to replace the entire staircase – cutting your costs and your mess!

Switch to glass or metal balustrades, or a different wooden balustrade shape, to switch up the look of your home.

 

Step #3 – Change the flooring

This is another easy step towards the staircase of your dreams – just change the floor covering.

Updating your carpet can really influence the look and feel of stairs. If you don’t fancy changing one carpet for another, how about going back to wooden boards? These can be painted to create a chic modern look, or you could experiment with adding in a colourful carpet runner in a jazzy pattern.

 

Step #4 – Focus on lighting

Sometimes improving the look of your staircase isn’t about doing anything to the stairs themselves. Instead, playing with lighting can help showcase the area in the best possible light.

Create a relaxed ambience with soft lighting and place lamps at the top and bottom stairs. Alternatively, you could experiment with handrail lighting or add a new statement light over the staircase itself.

 

Step #5 – Don’t forget the space underneath!

Want to reap maximum benefits from your staircase? Then don’t forget to make use of all areas.

By this, we meant the space underneath your stairs. With a little effort, this otherwise redundant area can become bonus storage – a coat cupboard, shoe storage – or even a small home office area.

Step #6 – Go for a full replacement

Tried all the other steps and still not happy with the look of your stairs? Then replace them!

People often think replacing stairs will be a mammoth task, but if you work with experts, it doesn’t have to be. And it could be the difference between liking and LOVING your home.

 

Abbot-Wade Ltd are staircase specialists, supplying bespoke staircases to happy customers across the UK. So whether you’re hunting for stairs in Glasgow or anywhere across the country, be sure to get in touch.

 

 

 

News

Golden college in top 10 for cyber security as apprenticeship interest grows

COLEG CAMBRIA has retained its position as a leader in cyber security education.

The college – based in Deeside, Llysfasi, Wrexham and Northop – received a gold award from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) as part of its CyberFirst initiative, which aims to address the UK’s cyber skills gap.

Cambria is one of only eight institutions in Wales to achieve this benchmark.

The good news comes as interest grows in the college’s popular Digital Degree Apprenticeship in Applied Cyber Security, aimed at prospective learners pursuing a career in IT, software development and engineering, or those already in a relevant position and looking to upskill.

The course includes modules on Local Area Network Essentials, Security and Data Ethics, Web Servers and Authentication, Business and Enterprise Programming, Software Engineering, and Penetration Testing.

Cambria’s Director of Business Solutions Nigel Holloway said maintaining the gold accreditation is a “major USP” for the college’s suite of digital and IT qualifications.

“Given the emphasis and strategic importance of combatting cybercrime on the international stage, for Coleg Cambria to be among only a select number of organisations nationwide to hold this standard is a significant milestone,” he added.

“It gives our learners confidence in the courses we run and demonstrates to our industry partners that we are at the forefront of advances in this sector.

“The programmes we deliver – notably the fully funded Digital Degree Apprenticeships – hold even more weight as a result.

“A big thank you to all of our team for their hard work in not only reaching this standard but going above and beyond it, year after year.”

The Digital Degree Apprenticeship in Applied Cyber Security – in partnership with Bangor University – runs for three years and consists of nine hours of in-person and online delivery per week, split over one six-hour day and one three-hour evening session. For more information, visit the website: www.cambria.ac.uk/our-courses.

CyberFirst covers a broad range of activities including thousands of free places on CyberFirst courses at UK universities and colleges. Each activity is designed to seek out diverse people with potential, offering the support, skills, experience, and exposure needed to be the future first line of defence in our CyberFirst world. Visit www.ncsc.gov.uk/cyberfirst to find out more.

News

Solar pioneers sign major deal to help decarbonise global shipping industry

GRAFMARINE secured a new partnership with a global leader in the decarbonisation of the international shipping industry.

Based in Manchester and Anglesey, Grafmarine is at the forefront of developing Nanodeck technology for the maritime sector.

The company has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Njord Accelerator to conduct a proof of concept, followed by a pilot installation which aims to fully explore the capabilities of solar tiles in the maritime industry.

Njord stands out for its role in enhancing the relationship between ship owners, charterers, vendors, and financiers. The organisation’s primary goal is to increase fuel efficiency of vessels, reduce their carbon footprint, and cut down greenhouse gas emissions.

Through this partnership, Grafmarine’s solar energy generation and management system, designed to capture, store, and manage clean energy at sea, in port, or at anchorage, will be validated.

Grafmarine has developed durable square panels and aesthetically pleasing hexagonal tiles that can be affixed to any vessel, showcasing its innovative approach to sustainable maritime technology.

Chris Russell, Engineering Director at Grafmarine, said: “Working with Njord is a privilege. Their guidance and support will be crucial as we refine Nanodeck technology.

“This collaboration not only marks a significant milestone in improving our product but also plays a vital role in introducing us to potential customers and partners within the maritime and shipping industries – it’s a pivotal step forward for us.”

Njord, headquartered in Denmark with a global presence, offers services including Technology Screening, Solution Design, Installation Partnership, and Njord Performance.

Steen Sander Jacobsen, Head of Technical at Njord, said: “At Njord Accelerator, we’re committed to supporting technology providers in advancing the green transition.

“Grafmarine’s solar tiles, known for their scalability, flexibility, and durability, represent a promising solution for the maritime industry. We’re excited about the potential this partnership holds.”

For more information on Grafmarine, visit www.grafmarine.com and follow @grafmarineltd on social media.

To learn more about Njord and its services, visit www.njordsolution.com.

News, Technology

Cohesity Extends Collaboration to Strengthen Cyber Resilience with IBM Investment in Cohesity

Cohesity has announced a deepening of its cyber resilience collaboration with IBM. The enhanced relationship will accelerate the development of essential cyber resilience capabilities to address organisations’ critical need for increased data security and resilience across hybrid cloud environments. With this announcement, Cohesity completes its Series F financing, with IBM joining NVIDIA as a strategic investor.

The most recent Cost of a Data Breach report sponsored by IBM Security shows the global average cost of a data breach in 2023 was $4.45 million, a 15% increase over the previous three years. To help clients tackle this issue head-on, IBM has delivered Cohesity capabilities into IBM’s end-to-end cyber resilience platform, IBMStorage Defender, strengthening customers’ ability to recover from data breaches and cyber-attacks.

“IBM is a powerful partner in the enterprise cloud and IT infrastructure market. They bring decades of expertise to our relationship, in addition to their investment in our business to help fund incremental research and development to offer customers even stronger cyber resilience,” said Sanjay Poonen, CEO and President, Cohesity. “We’re thrilled that IBM is working with us as we continue to help combined customers detect threats rapidly and maintain operations during an attack to avoid business interruptions.”

“Data breaches continue to be one of the biggest threats organisations face to advancing business outcomes,” said Ric Lewis, SVP, Infrastructure at IBM. “We’re excited to deepen our collaboration with Cohesity to bring clients innovative end-to-end software-defined solutions designed to increase their cyber resilience and help avoid business interruptions.”

Cohesity’s collaboration with IBM has brought Cohesity DataProtect together with IBM’s Storage Defender Solution to help their joint customers protect, monitor, manage, and recover data. Cohesity DataProtect is a high-performance, secured backup and recovery solution. It is designed to safeguard your data against sophisticated cyber threats and offers comprehensive policy-based protection for your cloud-native, SaaS, and traditional data sources. DataProtect converges multiple-point products into a single multicloud platform deployed on-premises or consumed as a service.

IBM Storage Defender leverages AI and event monitoring across multiple storage platforms through a single pane of glass to help protect organisations’ data layer from risks like ransomware, human error, and sabotage. Additionally, IBM Storage Defender is anticipated to include a cyber vault and clean room features with automated recovery functions designed to help companies restore business-critical data in hours or minutes from what used to take days.