​

A Saturday morning briefing for finance executives

​

BIS Flags Debt Risks

The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) has raised alarms over the destabilizing potential of surging government debt levels, emphasizing the urgency for policymakers to act preemptively. In its latest quarterly report, the BIS highlighted that global sovereign debt could increase by a third to $130 trillion by 2028, driven by persistently large budget deficits (Read).

Etsy Appoints Baker as New CFO

Etsy, a global leader in two-sided online marketplaces, has announced a series of executive team changes aimed at enhancing its operations and accelerating growth. Effective January 2025, Lanny Baker will join Etsy as Chief Financial Officer, succeeding Rachel Glaser. Baker will be responsible for the supervision of strategic finance, analytics, accounting, internal audit, investor relations, tax, treasury, strategic sourcing, and corporate development (Read).

PE Recovery Gains Momentum

Private equity activity has seen a marked resurgence in 2024, with global deal value rising 36% and volume increasing by 18% year-to-date compared to the same period in 2023. In Q3 alone, 135 significant deals were announced, driven by narrowing valuation gaps and improved financing conditions. Leveraged buyout-related loan volumes in the U.S. surged 65% from Q2, with $59 billion in announced transactions, while European loan activity rose to $65.7 billion, triple the amount recorded last year (Read).

​

Leading FinTech Growth Investor: Centana’s Eric Byunn

Listen on iTunes, YouTube or Spotify​

​

AI Market Insights for CFOs

The rapid rise of artificial intelligence has drawn comparisons to past speculative bubbles, with concerns about overhyped products and unsustainable growth dominating discussions. Companies like Nvidia have seen extraordinary revenue increases, while the broader market faces challenges such as limited training data, supply chain disruptions, and diminishing chip advancements (Read).

CFOs Embrace Transformation

In an era defined by economic volatility and geopolitical shifts, Chief Financial Officers are adapting to increasingly complex roles. According to PwC’s latest Pulse Survey, 84% of CFOs are delaying at least one investment decision due to heightened uncertainty. As they grapple with evolving capital requirements, regulatory challenges, and rising interest rates, finance leaders are focusing on enhancing their organizations’ financial resilience (Read).

​

Transforming Brain Health: Linus Health’s David Bates

Listen on iTunes, YouTube or Spotify​

​

Good News

Microsoft Joins Clean Energy Coalition

Microsoft is taking a significant step toward advancing clean energy and environmental justice with its role as an anchor member of the newly launched Climate and Communities Investment Coalition (CCIC). The initiative, spearheaded by Acadia Infrastructure Capital, aims to facilitate the construction of at least 5 GW of renewable energy projects over the next five years, helping to prevent 15 billion pounds of carbon emissions annually (Read).

​

Taking the Lead

These leaders are driving the state’s robust technology sector, where 15.2% of the workforce is employed in tech, contributing to Maryland’s position as a national leader in the field. From advancing cybersecurity to revolutionizing healthcare technology and improving supply chain management and beyond, these CEOs are solving real-world problems with innovative solutions that impact both local businesses and global industries. The Key Executives is pleased to announce The Top 25 Tech CEOs of Maryland for 2024 (Read).

This distinguished group of legal professionals combines deep expertise in law with leading sector experience and advanced academic backgrounds in biotechnology, molecular biology, and other life sciences fields. Attorney Intel is pleased to announce The Top 25 Biotechnology and Life Sciences Attorneys of 2024 (Read).

These remarkable women exemplify authenticity, creativity, and resilience, combining analytical thinking with empathy to navigate challenges. Their curiosity, openness, and commitment to collaboration drive innovation and inspire those around them, making them true leaders in their fields. Women We Admire is proud to announce The Top Women Leaders of 2024 (Read).

A unique and beautiful New England state, Maine is known for its 3,000 miles of rocky coastline, expansive wilderness, picturesque lighthouses, and vibrant ski destinations. Also famous for lobster and wild blueberries, it’s no wonder Maine is a top vacation destination. In addition to tourism, the state’s economy thrives on forestry, life sciences, technology, agriculture, and manufacturing. Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders of Maine for 2024 (Read).

​

Rhode Island Series: Weekapaug Inn, New England Luxury with Stunning Atlantic Ocean Views

Lodge + Dine announces a 5-star rating for Weekapaug Inn after a three-day visit evaluating the guest experience. The hotel excelled distinctively in its scenic and luxurious accommodations, exceptional farm-to-table dining, and superb beach access (Read).

​

"It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership."

— Nelson Mandela

Did a friend forward you this email? Sign up for our newsletter here.