MarkeTeam.ai, a pioneer in artificial intelligence for the marketing industry, has completed a successful $3 million seed funding round. The company has launched next-generation autonomous marketing agents that span multiple marketing disciplines such as brand marketing, paid media, content marketing, and SEO. These AI-powered agents function as full-fledged team members, collaborating with human teams to optimize marketing workflows and improve performance.

1. AI Agents that Integrate Seamlessly into Marketing Teams

   • MarkeTeam's AI agents are trained for multi-agent collaboration and can integrate into organizational platforms.
   • They operate across marketing functions including research, ideation, planning, content creation, publishing, and optimization.

2. Funding Round and Investor Participation

   • Ocean Azul Partners led the funding round, with significant contributions from industry veterans like Clive Sirkin (former CMO of Kellogg’s) and others.
   • This round brings MarkeTeam’s total funding to $5 million.

3. AI-Native Approach to Marketing

   • MarkeTeam’s approach enables AI agents to autonomously manage entire marketing processes, reducing operational costs and enhancing ROI.
   • AI agents work collaboratively with human teams, boosting efficiency and transforming marketing operations.

4. Solving Challenges in Shrinking Marketing Budgets

   • As marketing budgets decrease, companies are pressured to “do more with less.” MarkeTeam offers a solution by automating operational tasks, allowing teams to focus on growth initiatives.
   • The company’s AI agents can significantly cut costs while improving results.

5. Future of Marketing with Hybrid AI Teams

   • MarkeTeam’s AI agents are not just tools but full team members. They proactively plan, execute in real-time, and continuously optimize marketing efforts.
   • The funding will support expansion in the U.S. and the development of new AI models for a variety of marketing channels.

MarkeTeam.ai is redefining the future of marketing by introducing AI agents as team members that can operate autonomously, collaborate with human teams, and optimize marketing efforts. This innovative approach is set to change how marketing teams work, helping them overcome budget constraints and drive greater efficiency across all marketing channels.

Satisfi Labs, the leader in conversational experience platforms, has secured new growth financing from Level Structured Capital. This funding will enable Satisfi Labs to continue its global expansion, enhance its product pipeline, and strengthen its partner ecosystem. The company connects over 715 clients in sports, entertainment, and tourism with AI agents and integrated messaging, providing seamless customer engagement solutions.

1. Investment Round to Drive Global Expansion

   • Level Structured Capital, an affiliate of Level Equity, provided the funding.
   • The investment will support the company’s growth in new markets and further the development of its product offerings.

2. Building Momentum in Conversational Experience

   • Satisfi Labs has become a leader in the conversational experience space, connecting clients to AI-driven messaging solutions in sports, entertainment, and tourism.
   • The company continues to innovate, expanding its client base and enhancing user experiences.

3. Strategic Focus on Partner Ecosystem and Product Enhancements

   • The funding will help develop the company’s Engine App marketplace and partner ecosystem.
   • Enhancements to conversational ecosystems and the integration of new skills will provide clients with more tools to elevate customer interactions.

4. Acquisitions to Strengthen Market Position

   • In 2024, Satisfi Labs acquired Factoreal, an omnichannel marketing automation platform, rebranded as Marketing Engine.
   • The company also merged with Broadw.ai to expand its presence in the live event space, including Broadway and other entertainment attractions.

5. CEO Insights on Sustainable Growth

   • CEO Donny White emphasized Satisfi Labs’ commitment to product differentiation and profitability to achieve long-term growth.
   • The company aims to continue innovating and meeting the evolving needs of its diverse client base.

Satisfi Labs is poised for accelerated growth with new funding to expand globally, enhance its product offerings, and build a robust partner ecosystem. This new phase in the company’s development promises continued innovation and enhanced customer experiences for industries like sports, entertainment, and tourism.

LocaliQ, a digital marketing solutions provider under Gannett Co., Inc., has introduced Dash, an advanced AI-powered lead management solution designed to optimize lead conversion. The innovative SaaS solution leverages artificial intelligence, automation, and intelligent reporting to help businesses boost efficiency, save time, and grow faster by automating lead management processes.

1. Dash: The Future of Lead Management

   • Dash combines AI agents, automation, and advanced reporting to streamline the lead management process.
   • By automating lead scoring, categorizing, and prioritization, businesses can improve their conversion rates and enhance customer experiences.

2. AI-Powered Automation for Enhanced Efficiency

   • Dash replaces manual lead management tasks with intelligent automation, saving time and effort.
   • Business owners can focus on high-value tasks, leaving the time-consuming processes to the AI, which processes and ranks leads automatically.

3. AI SMS Agent: Boosting Lead Response Times

   • The recent introduction of Dash’s AI SMS agent allows businesses to respond instantly to SMS inquiries.
   • The SMS agent leverages natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning to simulate human conversation and qualify leads through SMS, addressing the 40% of unanswered leads.

4. Award-Winning Innovation

   • Dash was recognized with the 2025 BIG Innovation Award for its market introduction and contributions to innovation in the digital marketing space.
   • This recognition highlights LocaliQ’s continued leadership in integrating AI into marketing solutions for businesses.

5. Commitment to Advancing AI Solutions

   • LocaliQ’s President, Chris Cho, emphasized the company's commitment to technological advancement.
   • The launch of Dash is just the beginning, with more conversational AI features expected to roll out later in the year.

Dash by LocaliQ represents the next evolution in AI-driven lead management, helping businesses automate lead conversion, improve efficiency, and drive growth. The addition of AI-powered SMS responses further enhances the product’s value, enabling businesses to scale faster with less effort. LocaliQ’s innovative approach to marketing technology is paving the way for businesses to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.

The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) has released a new study titled "Striking the Balance: The Consumer Perspective on Privacy, Preference, and Personalization." The findings underscore a growing awareness and support for data privacy laws while demonstrating consumers' willingness to share data in exchange for personalized experiences. The study reveals that consumers value both privacy protections and a free, open internet, reflecting a clear understanding of the advertising value proposition.

1. Consumer Attitudes Toward Data Privacy and Personalization

   • 80% of U.S. consumers are concerned about data misuse, especially for criminal activity.
   • Interestingly, only 2% express concern over the use of their data for personalized advertising, showing that consumers understand and appreciate the value of tailored experiences.

2. Awareness and Support for Privacy Legislation

   • 70% of U.S. consumers are aware of current state-level data privacy laws, with many perceiving them as effective.
   • However, the study reveals that a significant portion (40%) is unaware of their ability to access or delete collected data, pointing to a need for greater education around privacy management.

3. Challenges in Privacy Management

   • 60% of consumers find existing privacy management systems to be complex, confusing, and inconvenient, highlighting the need for more streamlined, user-friendly solutions.

4. The Role of Personalized Ads in Consumer Experience

   • 82% of U.S. consumers agree that personalized ads help them discover products and services they are interested in.
   • Furthermore, 79% of consumers feel more positive toward brands that tailor their ads based on personal preferences, indicating a strong preference for relevant and meaningful advertising.

5. IAB's Call for a Balanced National Privacy Law

   • As the U.S. considers the implementation of a national privacy law, IAB’s CEO, David Cohen, advocates for a balanced approach that ensures robust privacy rights while supporting the benefits of a free, open internet.

The IAB study demonstrates that consumers understand the importance of data privacy while also recognizing the value of personalized advertising. As the conversation around national privacy laws continues, it's crucial for legislators to strike a balance that ensures consumer protection without stifling the benefits of a free, open internet. The findings indicate a growing need for privacy education and more accessible management tools, reflecting a shift toward transparency in digital marketing.

KPMG in India and The Hashgraph Group (THG) have announced a strategic alliance aimed at driving the adoption of blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technologies (DLT) across various industries. This collaboration leverages Hedera’s cutting-edge platform to provide secure, scalable, and energy-efficient solutions, accelerating the digital transformation journey for enterprise clients worldwide.

1. Alliance to Drive Blockchain Adoption Across Industries

   • The partnership combines KPMG’s extensive advisory expertise with THG’s technology, focusing on the implementation of Hedera’s blockchain solutions to offer transformative benefits for enterprises globally.

2. Key Offerings of the Strategic Alliance

   • The collaboration will deliver joint go-to-market solutions, utilizing THG’s Hashgraph for Enterprise (H4E) product suite to enable businesses to harness secure, enterprise-grade blockchain solutions.
   • Solutions will address various sectors including digital identity (DID), asset tokenization, sustainability, and supply chain management.

3. Impact of Blockchain/DLT on Enterprise Digital Transformation

   • Blockchain is increasingly viewed as a must-have technology for enterprises, enhancing security, reducing costs, and improving the efficiency of everyday transactions.
   • The technology’s role in advancing ESG (environmental, social, and governance) objectives is also highlighted, making it a key enabler of sustainable business practices.

4. Web3 Economy and the Role of Hedera

   • The Web3 economy is growing rapidly, with Hedera’s low fees, high scalability, and quantum-resistant infrastructure becoming central to enabling businesses to thrive in decentralized digital environments.
   • Hedera’s carbon-negative footprint adds value to enterprises focused on sustainability.

5. The Future of Blockchain with KPMG and THG

   • The alliance is set to revolutionize industries by addressing critical challenges such as supply chain management, digital product passports, and more.
   • With KPMG’s consulting expertise and THG’s technological power, this collaboration promises to empower organizations in competing in the evolving Web3 landscape.

The strategic alliance between KPMG in India and The Hashgraph Group marks a significant step in accelerating blockchain adoption across industries. By combining expertise in advisory services with advanced blockchain technology, the partnership aims to unlock new opportunities for businesses and drive innovation in the digital economy. With a shared vision of empowering enterprises through decentralized solutions, this collaboration is set to enhance the global market presence of both companies.

Holborn Assets, a global leader in financial services, has launched an innovative mobile app designed to streamline wealth management for clients. The Holborn App offers users a one-stop solution to track their investment portfolios, manage insurance policies, and stay updated on market trends. Additionally, the app features a unique tool for tracking residency and citizenship by investment applications, ensuring a seamless client experience.

1. Holborn App: A Comprehensive Financial Management Tool

   • The app allows users to monitor their portfolios, track investment performance, and manage insurance policies from a single platform.
   • Access to market news and insights provides users with up-to-date financial information and guidance.

2. Tracking Residency and Citizenship by Investment Applications

   • One of the standout features of the Holborn App is the ability to track residency and citizenship by investment applications, offering clients transparency throughout the process.
   • Users receive real-time updates on the status of their applications, helping them stay informed and prepared for each stage of the process.

3. Holborn’s Commitment to Digital-First Solutions

   • CEO Robert Parker emphasizes Holborn's dedication to being a digital-first company, offering clients easy-to-use technology for 24/7 access to their accounts.
   • The app reflects Holborn’s client-led approach, focusing on convenience and efficiency in managing financial services.

4. Rising Popularity of Investor Visas

   • COO Simon Parker highlights the growing trend of investor visas, with an increasing number of individuals seeking global mobility through residency and citizenship by investment programmes.
   • The app’s unique feature supports clients in managing and tracking these applications with greater clarity.

5. Security and Privacy: A Top Priority

   • With the increasing reliance on mobile apps for managing personal finances, Holborn ensures bank-level security to protect users’ sensitive data and maintain privacy.
   • The app is designed to keep financial information safe and secure, providing peace of mind to users.

Holborn Assets’ new app offers an all-in-one financial management solution that caters to the growing needs of today’s tech-savvy investors. By combining portfolio tracking, insurance management, and innovative features like tracking residency and citizenship by investment applications, the app enhances the user experience and reinforces Holborn’s commitment to digital transformation. With a focus on security and ease of use, the app is poised to become an essential tool for Holborn’s global clientele.

The global Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) market is experiencing substantial growth and is projected to reach $37.2 billion by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.8% from 2022 to 2031, according to a report by Allied Market Research. CASBs are security policy enforcement points that sit between enterprise users and cloud service providers, helping businesses secure cloud applications across both authorized and unauthorized applications, as well as managed and unmanaged devices.

1. Cloud Access Security Brokers: Ensuring Enterprise Cloud Security

   • CASBs offer flexible solutions, from authentication and credential mapping to encryption, malware detection, and more, ensuring robust security for cloud applications.
   • They combine various security policies to deliver comprehensive protection for enterprises leveraging cloud services.

2. Key Drivers of Market Growth

   • The demand for cloud security solutions surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, as businesses and employees quickly shifted to remote work, increasing the need for secure cloud access.
   • Advanced technologies like machine learning and data analytics integrated with CASB solutions present opportunities for further growth and innovation.

3. Growth in Demand from SMEs and Large Enterprises

   • Large enterprises are expected to continue dominating the CASB market, driven by their complex security needs and custom management solutions.
   • Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are also poised for significant growth due to increased technological investments and innovation.

4. Industry Verticals Driving Market Expansion

   • The IT and telecom sectors led the CASB market in 2021, with increased cloud participation pushing businesses to invest in robust security solutions.
   • The healthcare sector is expected to witness the highest growth, owing to stringent security standards and government regulations being implemented.

5. Regional Market Insights

   • North America led the CASB market in 2021 and is expected to retain its dominance throughout the forecast period, fueled by its advanced technology sector.
   • The Asia-Pacific region is expected to experience significant growth due to increasing digital capabilities and a competitive market landscape.

6. COVID-19 Impact on Cloud Security Solutions

   • The rapid shift to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of securing cloud-based applications and data.
   • The increased reliance on cloud services during this period further accelerated the demand for CASB solutions as businesses prioritized cybersecurity in their digital transformations.

The Cloud Access Security Broker market is on a strong growth trajectory, with the global market set to reach $37.2 billion by 2031. As more businesses adopt cloud services and remote work policies, the need for robust security solutions will continue to drive the demand for CASBs. With the integration of cutting-edge technologies and increasing regulatory requirements across various sectors, the CASB market is poised for further innovation and expansion.

OpenX Technologies, Inc., a global leader in omnichannel supply-side platforms, has announced the promotion of Tyler Romasco to Senior Vice President (SVP) of Global Publisher Development. This promotion, from his previous role as Vice President of US Publisher Development, will allow Romasco to focus on OpenX's global publisher growth across North America, EMEA, APAC, and LATAM. Since joining OpenX in 2019, Romasco has played a pivotal role in expanding the company’s publisher partnerships, particularly in CTV and OTT, and will now lead efforts to replicate this success in new markets.

1. Strengthening OpenX’s Global Publisher Focus

   • Tyler Romasco’s expanded role highlights OpenX's strategic focus on global publisher partnerships and monetization opportunities.
   • Romasco will oversee business development, integrations, operations, account management, and customer engineering to drive publisher revenue growth globally.

2. Romasco’s Impact on CTV and OTT Monetization

   • Romasco has been instrumental in expanding OpenX’s CTV and OTT offerings, achieving significant growth in monetized impressions, including a 22% increase for publishers in the biddable CTV space.
   • His deep expertise in these areas will be key to scaling OpenX’s global publisher footprint.

3. Navigating Industry Changes in Identity, CTV, AI, and Privacy

   • OpenX is focused on being a trusted advisor for publishers navigating industry challenges around identity, data privacy, and monetization.
   • Romasco’s leadership will ensure that OpenX continues to offer solutions that help publishers address evolving consumer privacy concerns while maximizing yield.

4. Romasco’s Career at OpenX and His Industry Influence

   • Since joining OpenX as Senior Director of Business Development, Romasco has significantly contributed to OpenX’s rise as a leader in omnichannel supply-side platforms.
   • His advocacy for publishers, particularly around establishing trust and transparency, has helped push the industry forward.

5. A New Chapter for OpenX Leadership

   • In his new role, Romasco will report to CEO John Gentry and join OpenX’s executive team, working closely with the company’s buyer development organization.
   • Romasco’s leadership style and strong industry relationships are seen as invaluable assets as OpenX continues to grow its presence globally.

Tyler Romasco’s promotion to SVP, Global Publisher Development, marks an important step in OpenX’s continued growth and expansion in the global publisher space. With a strong track record in CTV and OTT monetization, Romasco is poised to drive OpenX’s global publisher strategy, ensuring the company remains a trusted partner for publishers navigating the ever-evolving landscape of digital advertising.