Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the industry Core Insights - The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) as a general-purpose technology is expected to transform work across various industries and job roles, affecting up to 80 percent of U.S. workers with at least 10 percent of their work activities impacted by large language models [2][25] - AI's impact is anticipated to be pervasive across all occupational categories, including knowledge workers, with significant implications for workforce development and training [15][17] - Continuous retraining and upskilling will be essential as technical skills become outdated in less than five years on average, necessitating a well-rounded workforce capable of adapting to technological changes [3][5] Summary by Sections Executive Summary - AI is poised to transform work across various industries, affecting a significant portion of the workforce [2] - The transformation depends on AI's ability to perform or enhance core tasks and whether it substitutes or complements human workers [3] The Potential Impact of AI in the Workforce - AI is a general-purpose technology that can disrupt a wide range of skills and occupations, with significant implications for workforce development [22] - Occupations with high exposure to AI but low complementarity face the greatest risk of disruption, highlighting the need for retraining [34] The Impact of AI on Skills and Occupations - Technical skills account for about 27 percent of in-demand skills, while foundational, social, and thinking skills make up nearly 58 percent [4][38] - The demand for social skills has grown significantly, indicating a shift in the skills required in the labor market [43] Conversations with Subject Matter Experts - Community colleges are crucial in workforce development, providing accessible and affordable training programs tailored to local needs [48][50] - Work-based learning and alternative educational pathways, such as apprenticeships and career technical education (CTE), are seen as effective methods for retraining and upskilling [51][54] The Role of AI in Workforce Training and Development - AI tools can personalize workforce training by automating knowledge tracing and generating tailored content [72][80] - The speed of AI allows for just-in-time learning, accommodating busy schedules and enhancing training effectiveness [81][82] Conclusion - AI's broad impact necessitates comprehensive workforce development strategies, emphasizing the role of community colleges and the importance of digital skills education [106][107] - Addressing inequalities in access to AI tools and ensuring ethical implementation are critical for maximizing the benefits of AI in workforce training [107][108]

Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the industry. Core Insights - The poverty rate in South Sudan is alarmingly high, with 75.9% of the population living below the national poverty line of SSP358,724, and 67.3% living in extreme poverty, defined as less than SSP298,478 annually [38][138]. - The report highlights that poverty is particularly severe in rural areas, where approximately 80% of the population is poor, compared to about 60% in urban areas [38][144]. - The economic situation has deteriorated significantly since independence, with real GDP per capita declining to about one-third of its value in 2011, while average consumer prices have increased dramatically [44][116]. - Food insecurity has worsened, affecting nearly three-quarters of the population, with 53% experiencing moderate food insecurity and 20% facing severe food insecurity [62][255]. - The report identifies persistent conflict, inadequate state capacity, and extreme natural disasters as key drivers of poverty and food insecurity in South Sudan [87][88]. Summary by Sections Chapter 1: Poverty and Inequality: Profile and Trends - The national poverty rate was estimated at 78.4% in 2021, with extreme poverty at 71.5% [138]. - Consumption inequality is substantial, with a Gini coefficient of 0.45 nationally, indicating significant disparities in wealth distribution [140][152]. - Multidimensional poverty affects 92.6% of the population, with rural areas experiencing higher rates of deprivation [181][182]. - The report notes that poverty is widespread across all states, with some counties exhibiting poverty rates exceeding 80% [188][193]. Chapter 2: Food Security - Food insecurity has reached critical levels, with significant increases in both moderate and severe food insecurity since 2010 [255][262]. - The report indicates that rural residents are disproportionately affected, with 75% experiencing moderate to severe food insecurity compared to 52% in urban areas [269][270]. - Low household food production and limited access to markets are identified as major contributors to food insecurity [308][328]. - Persistent conflict and climate shocks exacerbate food insecurity, with floods and droughts significantly impacting agricultural productivity [360][371]. Chapter 3: Shocks and Resilience - The report highlights that 70% of households experienced at least one shock in the six months prior to the survey, with high food prices being the most common shock [353][358]. - Floods are a significant climate-related shock, affecting 27% of households, particularly in vulnerable regions [360][366]. - Households employ various coping strategies in response to shocks, with many resorting to emergency measures that deplete their resources [432][433]. Chapter 4: Policy Considerations - The report emphasizes the need for institutional reforms and human capital development to address the underlying causes of poverty and food insecurity [460][466]. - Recommendations include improving access to education and health services, enhancing food security through agricultural investments, and building resilience to climate shocks [470][476]. - The report calls for increased government investment in social protection programs to support the most vulnerable populations [447][448].

Public Disclosure Authorized | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | |---------------------------------|----------------------------------|-------|-------|-------| | | | | | | | | TECHNICAL NOTE ON HUMAN | | | | | RESOURCE MANAGEMENT INFORMATION | | | | | | | SYSTEM MODERNIZATION IN CAMBODIA | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | June 2024 | | | | | | | | | | | Public Disclosure Authorized Public Disclosure Authorized Public Disclosure Authorized Table of Contents Acknowledgment . . . . . . . . . ...

Investment Rating - The report assigns a "Buy" rating to several companies within the US Softlines Retail sector, indicating a positive outlook for their stock performance [351][356][361]. Core Insights - The growth rate of US brands' sales in China has decelerated significantly, with the Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) index for 27 US Softlines brands decreasing by 24% year-over-year in November, marking a deceleration of approximately 17,700 basis points month-over-month [10][32]. - Only 6 out of the 27 brands in the index experienced year-over-year GMV growth, highlighting the challenging market conditions [10][32]. - Crocs and Canada Goose showed the best growth rates in November, with year-over-year increases of 84% and 55% respectively, while brands like Nike and Skechers faced substantial declines of 63% and 66% [10][11][12][55]. Summary by Sections China Online Market Monitor - The UBS Evidence Lab's China Online Market Monitor tracks the online performance of major consumer brands, focusing on GMV, sales volume, and average selling prices on platforms like Tmall and Taobao [13][364]. Softlines Industry Gross Merchandise Value Index - The Softlines Industry GMV index increased by 12% on a two-year basis, despite a month-over-month deceleration [44][46]. - The index's year-over-year change reflects a significant decline, indicating a challenging environment for softlines retailers [32][44]. Company Leaderboards - The report provides detailed performance metrics for various companies, with Crocs and Salomon leading in growth on a rolling three-month, two-year basis, showing increases of 202% and 108% respectively [11][55]. - Other notable performers include Lululemon and Canada Goose, with growth rates of 94% and 93% [11][55]. Time Series Data - The report includes time series data for individual companies, illustrating trends in GMV and sales performance over time [10][11][12][55]. Valuation and Financial Metrics - The report presents a valuation table for the companies covered, detailing market capitalization, price targets, and expected sales growth rates [351][356][361]. - Key financial metrics such as return on equity (ROE), profit margins, and debt ratios are also analyzed to assess the financial health of the companies [356][361]. Conclusion - The overall sentiment in the report suggests a cautious optimism for select companies within the US Softlines Retail sector, despite the broader challenges faced in the market [351][356][361].

Investment Rating - The report assigns a "Buy" rating to several companies within the US Softlines Retail sector, indicating a positive outlook for their stock performance [351][356][361]. Core Insights - The growth rate of US brands' sales in China has decelerated significantly, with the Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) index for 27 US Softlines brands decreasing by 24% year-over-year in November, reflecting a 17,700 basis points deceleration month-over-month [10][32][44]. - On a two-year basis, the index showed a growth of 12%, but this also represented a deceleration of approximately 2,800 basis points month-over-month [44][44]. - Notable performers in November included Crocs and Canada Goose, which reported year-over-year GMV growth rates of 84% and 55%, respectively [10][11][55]. - Conversely, brands like Nike and Skechers experienced significant declines, with Nike's GMV decreasing by 63% year-over-year and Skechers by 66% [12][55]. Summary by Sections China Online Market Monitor - The UBS Evidence Lab's China Online Market Monitor tracks the online performance of major consumer brands, focusing on GMV, sales volume, and average selling prices on platforms like Tmall and Taobao [13][13]. Softlines Industry Gross Merchandise Value Index - The Softlines Industry GMV Index reflects a 24% year-over-year decline, indicating challenges in the market [32][32]. - The index's performance is heavily influenced by the sales trends of individual brands, with only 6 out of 27 brands showing growth [10][10]. Company Leaderboards - The report highlights the performance of various companies, with Crocs and Canada Goose leading in growth, while brands like Abercrombie & Fitch and Victoria's Secret faced substantial declines [11][11][55]. - The report provides detailed GMV growth rates for each brand, showcasing the stark differences in performance across the sector [11][11][55]. Time Series Data - Time series data for individual companies illustrates the fluctuations in GMV over recent months, emphasizing the volatility within the softlines retail sector [10][10][11]. Valuation and Financial Metrics - The report includes a valuation table for the companies covered, detailing market capitalization, price targets, and expected returns, which supports the investment ratings assigned [351][356][361].

BRIEF KEY COP29 OUTCOMES FOR CARBON MANAGEMENT AND INSIGHTS FOR INCLUSIVE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT NOORA AL AMER Senior International Climate Change Policy Lead DECEMBER 2024 DECISION ON GLOBAL CARBON MARKET RULES UNLOCKS NEW POTENTIAL FOR CARBON MANAGEMENT DEPLOYMENT 1. 2. NCQG FRAMEWORK OFFERS FLEXIBILITY FOR CARBON MANAGEMENT FUNDING, BUT FACES KEY CHALLENGES COP29 held in Baku, Azerbaijan, marked a pivotal moment in advancing carbon management, carbon markets, and climate finance as key components of ...

DECEMBER 2024 | --- | --- | --- | |-----------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------|-------| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Sam Winter-Levy | The AI Export Dilemma: Three Competing Visions for U.S. Strategy | | | | | | | | | | The AI Export Dilemma: Three Competing Visions for U.S. Strategy Sam Winter-Levy © 2024 Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. All rights reserved. Carnegie does not take institutional positions on p ...

Industry Investment Rating - The report highlights the exponential growth of women's football, positioning it as football's biggest growth opportunity with vast untapped potential [16][21] Core Viewpoints - FIFA aims to lead the sustainable growth of women's football until 2027 through a revised global strategy and tailored development programmes [2][3] - Key objectives include increasing female participation, enhancing commercial value, and building strong foundations for the women's game [22][23][31] - The FIFA Women's World Cup is identified as a major catalyst for accelerating the growth of women's football globally [17][19] Strategy and Tactics Participation Growth - FIFA targets increasing the number of female players to 60 million by 2027 [37] - Plans to double the number of member associations with organized youth leagues by 2026 to sustain girls' participation [37] Commercial Value Enhancement - FIFA aims to unlock the commercial potential of women's football at all levels, leveraging the success of the FIFA Women's World Cup [26][28] - The organization plans to develop a dedicated women's football commercial programme by 2026 [45] Foundation Building - FIFA commits to modernizing the regulatory framework and ensuring diverse representation in football leadership [32][33] - The organization will invest in targeted research to close the gender research gap and support the professionalisation of women's football [32] Game Plan Execution - FIFA's five-pronged strategy includes developing and growing the game, showcasing it, communicating and commercialising it, governing and leading, and educating and empowering stakeholders [35] - Specific tactics include modernizing development programmes, creating new competitions, and strengthening the Women's International Match Calendar [36][42] Development Programmes Women's Football Strategy - FIFA supports member associations in developing or revising their women's football strategies through expert guidance and funding up to USD 10,000 [93] Women's Football Campaign - This programme aims to boost grassroots participation by organizing football festivals and providing safe spaces for minority groups [96][98] League Development - Focuses on introducing new competitions and strengthening existing ones, with funding up to USD 100,000 per year for capacity-building [105][106] Club Licensing - Aims to accelerate the professionalisation of women's football by raising club and league standards through licensing workshops and funding up to USD 20,000 per year [111][112] Commercial Strategy (Pilot) - Provides guidance to member associations for establishing sustainable sponsorship and marketing strategies, with funding up to USD 50,000 [115][117] Global Benchmarking of Women's Leagues - FIFA will monitor the state of women's leagues globally and provide benchmarking tools to improve their quality and competitiveness [121][123] Capacity-Building for Administrators - Offers workshops and funding up to USD 50,000 to enhance the skills of women's football staff in member associations [130][131] Women in Football Leadership - Aims to increase female representation in decision-making roles through leadership workshops and networking opportunities [136][137] Coach Education Scholarships - Supports the development of female coaches through individual and group scholarships, including course fees and networking opportunities [149][150] Coach Mentorship - Focuses on fostering the growth of female coaches through mentorship programmes and funding up to USD 50,000 [156][157] Elite Performance: Coach Mentorship - Aims to develop talented female coaches aspiring to coach at the highest level, with support from experienced mentors and funding up to USD 2,500 [160][161] Elite Performance: Women's National Team Preparation - Supports the physical preparation of women's national teams for major tournaments, with funding up to USD 25,000 per year [172][173]

Industry Overview - The report emphasizes the need for a shift from autocratic leadership to a more empathetic and inclusive style, termed "Management by Bear," which is increasingly critical for business success in today's volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) world [6] - Societal norms and expectations for leadership have evolved, with younger generations (Millennials, Gen Y, and Gen Z) demanding inclusion, collaboration, and mental health awareness from their leaders [6] - Regulatory requirements around well-being, diversity, inclusivity, and social impacts are becoming more stringent, with examples including ESG requirements, UN SDGs, and ESRS [6] Key Leadership Qualities - Effective leadership in the modern business environment requires ambidexterity, balancing "softer" qualities like empathy with "harder" qualities like decisiveness [11] - Four essential qualities for Management by Bear are: assertive kindness, decisive fairness, brave adaptability, and competitive inclusivity [11][44] - Assertive kindness involves understanding employees' needs and making decisions based on what is best for the organization, not just what employees want [46] - Decisive fairness requires leaders to establish transparent criteria for decision-making, ensuring ethical behavior and fairness across the organization [49] - Brave adaptability is crucial in a VUCA world, where leaders must balance resilience with a clear sense of purpose [50] - Competitive inclusivity ensures that all employees feel valued while maintaining a meritocratic environment [55] Benefits of Management by Bear - Companies with empathetic leadership experience higher employee engagement, loyalty, and productivity, with studies showing double-digit productivity boosts and reductions in absenteeism [11] - Empathetic leadership reduces workplace conflicts, turnover, and sick leave, with research indicating that over 40% of employees face stress, which negatively impacts productivity and health [67] - Enhanced brand attractiveness is another benefit, as consumers increasingly value companies that demonstrate empathy, fairness, and transparency [69] Implementation of Management by Bear - The report outlines a six-step approach to implementing Management by Bear: (1) reflect and assess, (2) shape purpose and vision, (3) integrate into business management, (4) communicate and educate, (5) deal with resistance, and (6) evaluate and report [73] - Reflection and assessment are critical first steps, involving dialogue with internal and external stakeholders to understand the current state of leadership and organizational culture [74] - Shaping a clear purpose and vision is essential for maintaining agility and resilience, with examples from companies like Unilever and Johnson & Johnson [78] - Integrating Management by Bear principles into business management involves aligning strategy, processes, resources, and organizational culture with the new leadership philosophy [82] Case Studies - Companies like Ben & Jerry's, Google, Hitachi, IKEA, Mahindra, Nedbank, Patagonia, Salesforce, TOMS Shoes, and Zappos have successfully implemented principles aligned with Management by Bear [13][115] - Ben & Jerry's integrates social justice into its business model, focusing on environmental sustainability, fair trade, and social equity [115] - Google promotes a culture of inclusivity, fairness, and innovation, with initiatives like DEI programs and a top score on the Disability Equality Index [117] - Patagonia is renowned for its environmental ethics, with initiatives like "1% for the Planet" and fair labor practices [129][130] - Salesforce's Ohana culture emphasizes unity and mutual support, with the company contributing 1% of its software, equity, and employees' time to social causes [134][136] Challenges and Responses - Companies like Google and Patagonia face criticism for privacy practices and greenwashing, respectively, but have responded by enhancing transparency and improving their sustainability efforts [117][132] - TOMS Shoes has adjusted its "One for One" model to focus more on sustainable solutions and long-term impacts, addressing criticisms of dependency creation [133] - Zappos has implemented support mechanisms and flexibility options to address work-life balance challenges, ensuring a healthier work environment [139]

Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the plastics industry or its sub-sectors. Core Insights - The plastics sector is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with the petrochemical industry accounting for 14% of total primary oil demand in 2019 and direct emissions from plastic production estimated at 1.4–1.6 Gt CO₂e per year [4] - The guidance emphasizes the need for companies to report emissions at the product level to drive decarbonization actions and enable informed purchasing decisions [5][7] - Key decarbonization levers include maximizing mechanically recycled plastic, increasing renewable electricity usage, and deploying low-emission production technologies [8] Summary by Sections Background - Plastics are essential in various applications, including packaging, construction, and consumer goods, and are critical for the transition to net-zero energy [3] Reporting Metrics and Basis - The guidance outlines a product footprint basis for emissions reporting, using kg CO₂e per kg of product as the standard metric [10] - Required metrics include resin types, emissions intensity, and primary data share to create transparent decarbonization signals [15][16] Methodology - Emissions calculations are based on ISO standards, with separate determinations for direct (Scope 1) and indirect (Scope 2) emissions [23][24] - The report emphasizes the importance of using primary data for accuracy in emissions reporting [16][28] Best Practice Optional Metrics - Optional metrics include end-of-life emissions intensity, recyclability ratings, and renewable energy share, which can enhance transparency and support corporate sustainability goals [19][21][57] Appendices - Appendix A provides details on molding techniques and associated emissions, while Appendix B outlines optional metrics for enhanced reporting [47][54]