Velotrade Cafe: Blog & Company Updates 

The landmark SolarWinds hack points to the everyday issue of data risk faced by organisations of all types. In this blog post we explain the pros and cons of using third-party APIs when rolling out new services to boost online business models. We also recommend some simple steps to avoid this serious threat.

One of the most glamorous and successful alternative trade finance companies has filed for insolvency and is facing possible bankruptcy. It looked too good to be true: A lack of transparent risk assessment and intense risk concentration, coupled with obvious conflicts of interest, sealed the company’s fate.

The potential for further unpredictable interventions by retail investors has added another layer of risk to the investment landscape but it has also positively highlighted how open financial markets are becoming today.

Some business functions are easier to automate than others. However, experienced management staff still retain an essential decision-making role today. In fact, any area of activity that depends on human interaction is inevitably more challenging to automate.

As base rates have moved closer to zero, the likelihood of widespread negative interest rates has increased. Already the Eurozone, Switzerland and Japan have entered negative territory. The US Federal Reserve and the Bank of England are showing signs of a similar move.

In recent months, the flow of goods across international borders has slowed significantly and many SME manufacturers are facing severe difficulties in staying afloat. Governments have already introduced incentives in many countries to kickstart the economy. New funding can be used to activate international trade in a relatively straightforward manner. Market-based solutions already exist.