The weekend is finally here! Grab a mug of your favorite blend and settle in for a reading session outdoors.
• From a desert gamble to widespread use: The very first grid battery was set up in Chile’s Atacama Desert about 15 years ago. Now, with falling prices, they’re becoming common globally.
• What’s the deal with Excel? Microsoft’s spreadsheet software can be pricey and not exactly uplifting. Yet, it might be one of the most influential applications ever created.
• New private equity moguls stepping into Wall Street: Financial institutions from the private sector are increasingly influencing traditional banks. Here’s what to keep an eye on and some potential risks.
• Innovative covert tactics in Israel and Ukraine: A potent mix of classic human espionage combined with modern tech is significantly affecting ongoing high-stakes conflicts.
• VIP lines: “Which one is the longest?” I asked. “That’s where I should be.”
• The evolution of warfare: Throughout history, advancements in weapons have marked our story, and we’re witnessing perhaps the fastest evolution yet. Ask any five national security veterans, and each will name different technologies poised to change combat forever—like swarms of unmanned aircraft carrying out missions or cyber weapons that can disable entire infrastructure.
• The decline of oddity: It’s a strange observation, but societal data shows we’re becoming less eccentric. Essentially, we’re experiencing a downturn in mischief and a rise in uniformity.
• Cryptocurrencies and crime: Analysts argue that stablecoins provide anonymity and can be mixed to conceal illicit funds, complicating tracing efforts.
• Strengthening borders: The Baltic states are bolstering their frontiers as a deterrent against Russia’s aggression. Communities near these borders are now weighing the costs of maintaining peace amid uncertainties with the current U.S. administration.
• Pink Floyd’s ‘Wish You Were Here’ turns 50: Nick Mason reflects on the challenges faced during the creation of this iconic album and how it fits into their broader body of work.
This weekend, you might want to check out the Master of Business interview with Stephen Cohen from BlackRock. He’s been a key player in managing assets and has a fascinating insight into finance and investment strategies.
Can China emerge victorious in the innovation race?
