As the new post-pandemic normal settles in and people adapt to a context of uncertainty, constant adversities, and pessimism, we are moving away from a moment in which consumers expected brands to rise up to society's challenges and into one when they’re demanding genuine allyship from businesses.

Speed and convenience have become the consumer norm. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, when people worldwide were introduced to instant access to goods and services via apps and digital platforms, the supply and demand considerably grew and splintered. The 'I need it now' culture shows no signs of slowing down, ye...

Young people in Malaysia are increasingly saddled with debt as they struggle to sustain their livelihoods in a post-COVID economy. As they continue to aspire towards milestones like car and home ownership, the demand for higher wages and more effective financial literacy education is likely to grow.

Dubai-based BNPL platform Tabby has raised $58 million, making it one of the most valued start-ups in the MENA region. Buy now, pay later services are proving attractive to consumers in a region that has traditionally been cash-focused, giving them greater financial flexibility.

Young people want to save and budget in a way that isn’t boring. Cleo provides a smart AI bot that delivers financial services in a fresh and disruptive way. With $44 million in funding, Cleo is one of the fastest-growing fintech brands catering to a younger audience: Gen Zers.

The cost of living crisis has left many people feeling the need to be savvier with their purchases. In turn, long-held loyalties are falling by the wayside as shoppers seek the best deals. How can brands balance convenience, personalisation, and value to meet their customers’ changing needs?