Quick takes

Tesla vehicles barred from entering government venues in China

Ongoing tensions and concerns about data security between Beijing and Washington have led to Tesla cars being restricted from entering premises operated by government affiliates, local authority agencies, highway operators and even cultural and exhibition centres in China. Previously, such restrictions were generally limited to military bases.

Perth unveils plans to redevelop waterfront precinct

The Western Australian Government has entered negotiations to redevelop the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre (PCEC), unveiling new plans to refresh the waterfront precinct. The proposal would create an iconic precinct on the Swan River, with a world-class convention space designed to attract major business events – as well as create a new tourism and hospitality hub for Perth.

JEGI Clarity reports increase in Corporate vs Private Equity transactions

M&A advisory firm JEGI Clarity released its Transaction Update for 2023, noting over 20 M&A transactions completed during the previous calendar year. Of these, 60% were founder sales, 25% were corporate divestitures and 15% were private equity exits. By sector, Marketing Services and Technology accounted for 25% of transactions, followed by Digital Media and Content (20%), Software (20%), Technology and Consulting (20%), B2B Information and Events (10%) and Insights, Data and Analytics (5%).

Digital Agencies’ roles changing to adapt to generative AI

Generative AI is blurring the lines between different types of marketing, leading Forrester Research to predict a sea-change in pure-play digital agencies as they adapt to the reality of digital sameness and commoditisation. As the landscape continues to evolve, agency services most at risk are routine, repetitive tasks such as basic content creation, data analysis and campaign optimisation.