Converge

Market Update: Jobs report surprises amidst AI boom and K-shaped recovery

In this episode, Alex Lawrence and Kevin Ford break down the latest US job numbers and what they reveal about the current state of the economy. Their conversation examines the fragility of the labor market, the unexpected job growth seen in January, and the growing disconnect between economic expansion and job creation. They also discuss how AI is influencing productivity and employment trends, as well as the uneven pace of economic recovery across different income groups. Together, these insights offer a snapshot of today’s evolving economic environment, marked by a “jobless boom” and the complexities introduced by rapid technological change. Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

Modernizing global rewards programs with Shareforce

This week, Alex Lawrence speaks with Adva Lewitte [https://www.linkedin.com/in/advalewitte/] from ShareForce about modernizing global reward programs. They discuss the challenges of traditional incentive management, the importance of automation and integration, and how technology can enhance employee engagement. Adva shares insights on navigating complexities in multi-country share plans and the impact of remote work on employee ownership. The conversation also touches on real-world success stories of automation and the future of incentive technology. Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

FX market uncertainty as USD continues to dive

In this week's market update, Alex Lawrence [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrencealex] and Stephen Dooley [https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenmdooley/] discuss the significant movements in the FX markets over the past week, particularly the Japanese yen's weakness against the US dollar. They explore the potential for coordinated intervention by central banks, historical precedents like the Plaza Accord, and the current fiscal pressures facing Japan. The conversation highlights the complexities of currency interventions and the broader economic implications for the US dollar and global markets. Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

Deep Fakes, AI and International Education: Tech security in a high-risk era (The PIE re-broadcast))

This week we're sharing a conversation from last month's The PIE webinar featuring Convera's Head of Content Alex Lawrence [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrencealex] and the University of Denver's Janet Burkhardt [https://www.linkedin.com/in/janet-burkhardt-2a43649/]. They delve into the escalating cyber threats faced by higher education institutions, particularly focusing on the rise of sophisticated fraud tactics such as ghost students and identity theft. They also discuss the vulnerabilities in international payment systems and the importance of robust data protection strategies. They emphasize the need for comprehensive staff training, collaboration across departments, and the role of technology providers in enhancing cybersecurity measures. Lastly, the discussion highlights quick wins that institutions can implement to bolster their defenses and the critical importance of governance in creating resilient institutions. Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

Are markets mispricing a fractured world?

2026 has started with a bang. Geopolitical risks are piling up - from US military intervention in Venezuela to fresh threats across the Americas, Iran, and even Greenland. And if that wasn’t enough, the US administration’s globally destabilising attack on the Federal Reserve has added another layer of chaos to the start of the year. Yet markets remain remarkably calm. And that’s the real danger. The quieter things look on the surface, especially with this many flashpoints building underneath, the more violent the eventual break tends to be. Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.