About 360 MAGAZINE

360 MAGAZINE is an award-winning international publishing on popular culture and design. We introduce avant trademarks to efficacious architects. We are a LGBTQIA2S+ friendly publication--officially recognized by the NGLCC. Our core demographic ranges from 19 to 39-year-old college-educated trendsetters within their respective international communities. The pages in this art book satisfy their strong interests including music, art, travel, auto, health, fashion, tech, philanthropy, design, food and entrepreneurship. It's an introspective digital/print/tablet portrait series, which encapsulates artists/brands/entities who embody the true essence of our publication- empowerment, equality, sensuality and most important of all, humanity within a global society.

A SEASON OF MILESTONES FOR FORMULA 1®

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Next week the 2019 FIA Formula One World Championship™ starts with the FORMULA 1 ROLEX AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX 2019. Motorsport’s pinnacle series will take to the Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit from Friday 15 to Sunday 17 March, launching the 70th Formula 1® championship. Formula 1® attracts fans from across the world, captivated by the sport’s cutting-edge technology and its remarkable athletes in their quest for perfection. The competition’s enduring spirit, as well as its commitment to bold performance and innovation, aligns closely with Rolex’s own passion for continuous excellence. This season, Rolex marks its seventh consecutive year as a Global Partner and the Official Timepiece of Formula 1®.

In a move to improve overtaking, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and Formula 1® have introduced rules reducing aerodynamic turbulence from the front and rear wing, encouraging the cars to follow each other in close proximity. Rolex Testimonee and multiple Formula 1® race winner Mark Webber explains their impact: “The new regulations are designed to encourage drivers to get into a position to overtake. The cars should be more predictable, meaning the drivers will be more confident about creating exciting passing opportunities. There’s definitely a lot to look forward to this season and I think there will be a good fight for the championship. I hope it goes deep into the year – I really believe it will.”

The 2019 season, spanning March to December and consisting of 21 races around the world, will feature several milestones. Next month’s FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN CHINESE GRAND PRIX 2019 will be the championship’s 1,000th Grand Prix™. Since its first race in May 1950, Formula 1® has pioneered technology across the globe, showcasing legendary drivers behind the wheel of the most advanced racing cars. This May, the FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX DE MONACO 2019 celebrates 90 years since the inaugural race around the Principality’s famous streets and almost a century later the circuit still paves a virtually identical route. Rolex Testimonee and 2016 FIA Formula 1® Drivers’ World Champion Nico Rosberg highlights the importance of celebrating the sport’s past: “I’m very proud of the great heritage of Formula 1 and the small part I have played in its history. I look forward to being involved in these landmark occasions, to reflect and reminisce on the sport’s tremendous legacy and its exceptional achievements. Formula 1 continues to be one of the most technologically advanced sports in the world and these attributes – legacy, excellence and innovation – fit perfectly with Rolex.”

On 7 September 2019 at Monza (Italy), Sir Jackie Stewart, a Rolex Testimonee for more than half a century and three-time FIA Formula 1® Drivers’ World Champion, will celebrate 50 years to the day since he clinched his first championship. The Scottish legend, who marks the occasion at the same circuit where he sealed the crown in 1969, reflects on the milestone: “I’ve always felt emotion is dangerous for a racing driver, but I hope there is a little flush of it when I get to Monza this year. I’m incredibly proud, and fortunate, to have seen the sport grow in prestige as well as from a safety perspective, it’s a wonderful story. To honor the anniversary at one of the greatest race tracks in the world where I won my first championship is truly special and I look forward to a weekend full of celebrations.”

This season will feature several new driver partnerships, with only Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport and Rich Energy Haas F1® Team keeping the same line-up as in 2018. The shake-up has created added intrigue as the teams travel to Australia. “There’s nothing like going racing,” says Mark Webber. “It’s amazing how quickly the drivers will settle into their new environments, but prior to Melbourne they have had only a limited amount of testing, so the first race of the year will answer a lot of questions. Melbourne is one of the best Grands Prix of the year; the city comes to life. It is very significant for the event that Rolex has been involved for so long, united by their world-class approach and attention to detail. For me personally, and for all Australians, it makes the event extra special that such an incredible brand like Rolex is so closely associated.”

ROLEX AND MOTORSPORT

Rolex’s close ties with motor port date back to Sir Malcolm Campbell’s World Land Speed Record successes in the 1930s, when he became the first driver to break the 300mph barrier (483km/h) at the wheel of his car Bluebird. Since then, Rolex’s presence in motor racing has grown steadily, supporting iconic endurance events such as the Rolex 24 At DAYTONA, the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the FIA World Endurance Championship. In 2013, Rolex partnered the pinnacle of motor sport, Formula 1®, having supported Rolex Testimonee Sir Jackie Stewart since 1968. The brand also has a global appreciation for classic car events steeped in elegance, beauty and tradition, including the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance®, The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, the goo and the Goodwood Revival.

ABOUT FORMULA 1®

Formula 1® racing began in 1950 and is the world’s most prestigious motor racing competition, as well as the world’s most popular annual sporting series. The 2019 FIA Formula One World Championship™ runs from March to December and spans 21 races in 21 countries across five continents. Formula One World Championship Limited is part of Formula 1®, and holds the exclusive commercial rights to the FIA Formula One World Championship™.

Formula 1® is a subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation (NASDAQ: LSXMA, LSXMB, LSXMK, BATRA, BATRK, FWONA, FWONK) attributed to the Formula One Group tracking stock.

ABOUT ROLEX

AN UNRIVALLED REPUTATION FOR QUALITY AND EXPERTISE

Rolex, a Swiss watch manufacture headquartered in Geneva, is recognized the world over for its expertise and the quality of its products. Its Oyster Perpetual and Cellini watches, all certified as Superlative Chronometers for their precision, performance and reliability, are symbols of excellence, elegance and prestige. The word “Perpetual” is inscribed on every Rolex Oyster. But more than just a word on a dial, it is a philosophy that embodies the company’s vision and values. Hans Wilsdorf, the founder of the company, instilled a notion of perpetual excellence that would drive the company forward. This led Rolex to pioneer the development of the wristwatch and numerous major watchmaking innovations, such as the Oyster, the first waterproof wristwatch, launched in 1926, and the Perpetual rotor self-winding mechanism, invented in 1931. Rolex has registered over 500 patents in the course of its history. A truly integrated and independent manufacturing company, Rolex designs, develops and produces in-house the essential components of its watches, from the casting of the gold alloys to the machining, crafting, assembly and finishing of the movement, case, dial and bracelet. Furthermore, Rolex is actively involved in supporting the arts and culture, sport and exploration, as well as those who are devising solutions to preserve the planet.

John Newman “Feelings”

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Today, BRIT Award-nominated UK platinum-selling singer, songwriter, performer, and vocal powerhouse JOHN NEWMAN returns with a brand new single entitled “Feelings.”

Get it HERE via Republic Records.

Upholding a tradition of international #1 smashes including “Feel The Love,” “Love Me Again,” and “Blame,” his latest anthem “Feelings” spotlights the scope of the blockbuster voice that made listeners everywhere fall in love with him in the first place. He co-wrote the single alongside Swedish collective BLNK [The Chainsmokers, NEIKED] and co-produced it with Jarly [Sigala].

“Feelings” arrives as JOHN reaches another major career milestone. He just surpassed 2 billion total streams on his solo music and 4.5 billion, including collaborations.

Right now, he’s putting the finishing touches on his upcoming third full-length—due out in 2019.

JOHN NEWMAN first rose to global superstardom with the RIAA platinum smash “Love Me Again.” His 2015 opus, Revolve, boasted diverse cameos from the likes of Idris Elba and Charlie Wilson and garnered widespread international praise. Along the way, he’s captivated audiences with TV performances on Ellen and alongside Taylor Swift and at the European Games Closing Ceremony. Moreover, the artist has received the endorsement of The New York Times, USA Today, and more. In 2018, he released the fan favorite “Fire In Me” and hit the main stage at Coachella to perform “Blame” during Calvin Harris’ headlining set.

The Porto Protocol: A Solution-Driven Forum for Fighting Climate Change

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Robin Daniel Lail, founder of Lail Vineyards, has been appointed the U.S. representative for The Porto Protocol. She is currently the only U.S. representative – and one of three representatives worldwide. Lail joins Pancho Campo of Spain, the CEO of Chrand, and Adrian Bridge of Portugal, director general of The Fladgate Partnership. Bridge is the founder of The Porto Protocol and leads the organization’s solution-driven forum for fighting climate change.

Established in Porto, Portugal – one of the world’s great wine capitals and home to some of Europe’s most diverse vineyards – The Porto Protocol is taking the lead in reducing the effects of climate change by simply asking their members to do more than they are currently doing to reduce their impact on the environment. The Porto Protocol is focused on creating a database of peer case studies so that business leaders can quickly learn what steps their colleagues are taking that they can also emulate and implement.

“In Napa Valley, growers and vintners are already actively engaged in protecting the environment as we farm for our grandchildren,” said Lail. “We are re-evaluating our farming practices at Lail Vineyards and my goal as The Porto Protocol’s U.S. representative is to reach out to farming communities across the country to do the same. Together, we have the opportunity to create a really loud voice.” 

The Porto Protocol sprung from the wine industry because grape farmers are especially vulnerable to the impact of climate change. The organization’s goal is for leaders in all industries to share their expertise and wisdom through their case studies to inspire their peers to make changes that will mitigate the effects of climate change.

Robin Daniel Lail is a fourth generation vintner and the founder of Lail Vineyards. Along with her family, she has produced some of the most elusive, coveted wines in Napa Valley. As a descendant of one of Napa Valley’s founding families, the story of Robin Lail’s life is woven into the history of the Napa Valley. Her great-granduncle Gustave Niebaum established Inglenook in 1879 and her beloved father, John Daniel, Jr., created wines that are regarded among the best of the 20 century. The wines of Lail Vineyards are born from generations of winemaking knowledge in Napa Valley, a legacy that remains Lail’s steadfast compass.

Austin Adventures: Family Appreciation Month

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Through hard work and dedication to the details, Austin Adventures has grown to be the #1 Family Adventure company in the country. For over 35 years they have been taking families to the national parks of the West as well as special places around the globe. As a two-generation, owned and operated active travel company, family travel is in their DNA.

For the second year in a row, Austin Adventures is dedicating the entire month of March to “Family Appreciation,” with special incentives and giveaways, plus an interactive child & parent “Take a National Park Vacation” webinar that all ages will want to attend.

“Between work, school, athletic and social schedules, planning and scheduling a family vacation has never been more challenging, often to the point of missing the opportunity all together to create lasting bonds and memories within the family,” explains Dan Austin, company president and founder. “Austin Adventures is fully committed to helping anyway we can. Our goal is to take the stress out of vacation planning and then deliver an experience second-to-none.”

On Tuesday, Mar 12, 2019 at 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Austin Adventures invites kids and parents to a live webinar focused on helping families (especially the kids) with their vacation planning. Anyone considering a small group vacation tour now or in the future is encouraged to attend. For information and to register click here.

The seminar will be hosted by Kasey Austin, Outside Magazine 2014 Family Guide of the Year. Making a cameo appearance will be Dan Austin, company visionary and travel industry legend. Together, The Austin Family has set the bar for family adventure travel for decades, so much so, they are often referred to as “the First Family of Adventure Travel.”

During this informal and informative webinar focused on the younger generation, Kasey will offer tips and insights on planning and visiting America’s National Parks along with other popular family destinations.

As an incentive to register and attend, every family that participates will receive a coupon worth $250 off their next Austin Adventures family vacation. Plus, all participating kids (age 6-12) whose parents end up booking a 2019 family national park adventure will receive a logo-embossed backpack (on Day 1 of the trip) packed full of swag (logo water bottle, trip journal, field guide, hacky sack, stickers and more).

“I had so much fun sharing my passion for our National Parks last year, I couldn’t wait to do it all again this year. Sharing the parks with the next generation of adventurer really is my passion. I am looking forward to sharing what we know and have learned from our 35+ years of taking families deep into our national parks,” said Kasey Austin.

“Dan and I will draw from our own experiences and help families with real time information that can assist them in making the most of a park vacation, whether with us or on their own. There will be a follow-up email survey as well as ample time for questions and answers.”

The webinar will help Austin Adventures kick-off their second annual “Family Appreciation” Month. Dedicated to celebrating and encouraging family vacations worldwide, this observance comes on the heels of the company’s 2nd wildly successful “Alumni Appreciation” month held in December, 2018. Throughout the month there will be dedicated e-newsletters and blogs on family travel, special incentives, travel agent promotions and for extended families, an offer of a free trip for one guest in groups of ten or more booked.

To assist in vacation planning, Austin Adventures also offers a free Insider’s Guide to Planning the Perfect Family Adventure. See: http://www.austinadventures.com/free-family-travel-guide/.

Austin Adventures has led the field when it comes to family adventures (twice being acknowledged by Travel + Leisure Magazine as the #1 Tour and Family Tour Operator in the World). For 2019, there are over 40 family adventures planned across the globe. Here is a sampling of some of the more popular National Park itineraries on the current Austin Adventures roster. All adult rates are per person, double occupancy.

Grand Canyon National Park: 6-days/5-nights from $2,998; children from $2,398.

Alaska- Kenai Fjords National Park: 6 days/5 nights from $3,698; children from $3,328.

Bryce & Zion National Parks: 6 days/5 nights from $2,798; children from $2,518.

Yellowstone National Park:  6 days/5 nights from $2,898; children from $2,318.

Grand Teton National Park: 6 days/5 nights from $3,298; children from $2,968.

Yosemite National Park: 6 days/5 nights from $3,698; children from $2,958.

Glacier National Park: 6 days/5 nights from $3,298; children from $2,638.

South Dakota – Black Hills (Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Monuments / Wind Cave NP): 6 days/5 nights from $2,898; children from $2,318.

Banff to Jasper National Parks 6 days/5 nights from $3,098; children from $2,478.

About Austin Adventures
Based in Billings, Montana, Austin Adventures has spent over 35 years building an international reputation as a top provider of luxury, small group, multi-sport tours for adults and families to the world’s most captivating destinations. They have been acknowledged twice by Travel + Leisure Magazine with the prestigious World’s Best Awards along with other national media accolades and distinctions. Austin Adventures has perfected the art of creating itineraries featuring exceptional regional dining, distinctive accommodations, incredible guides and exhilarating activities, all while keeping all-inclusive rates and services the norm. In addition to scheduled group departures on all seven continents, Austin Adventures has developed a reputation as the leader in customized trip planning and execution, all backed by the industry’s best money-back satisfaction guarantee.

H&M STUDIO SS19

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H&M UNVEILS H&M STUDIO SS19 – AN ADVENTUROUS, GLAMOROUS COLLECTION FUELED BY WANDERLUST

Today, H&M unveils the campaign for the H&M Studio SS19 collection, “The Glam Explorer”, styled by Géraldine Saglio and photographed by Lachlan Bailey against the dramatic backdrop of Arizona. Inspired by a glamorous adventurer, the campaign sets the tone for H&M’s decision to swap the Paris Fashion Week catwalk for the Sedona, Arizona desert, where the SS19 collection will debut in an immersive theater format. The unique storyline can be followed on #HMStudio and the collection will be available to purchase beginning on March 21st on hm.com and in select H&M stores.

“The H&M Studio SS19 collection caters to a glamorous, adventurous spirit: we’re designing for a woman who doesn’t want to limit herself. She might be going to a party one evening in a sequined skirt, but the next morning she’s up early to go to yoga in her metallic-stripe leggings – so we’re thrilled to be able to present the collection in Sedona, Arizona, channelling the glamorous explorer spirit that infuses the clothes,” says Pernilla Wohlfahrt , Design Director H&M

“Working on SS19 with the H&M Studio team has been a very satisfying project for me. We wanted to capture the mix of high glamour and nature in its wildest form, inspired by the famous 1975 French movie, Le Sauvage, with Catherine Deneuve as a runaway bride on a tropical island. The combination of high glamour and more utilitarian pieces feels very ‘me’ – I like to dress in this way and I hope other women will too,” says, Géraldine Saglio, stylist and creative consultant

Taking a free-spirited glam explorer as its muse, the SS19 collection offers a versatile mix of thrilling, statement pieces with low-key, utility-led separates. With mood board references that include the vibrantly-hued mineral ponds of Utah, the collection’s key pieces comprise of a rainbow-hued printed dress, a decadent sequin-splattered skirt, and a structured utility jacket – all of which spell effortless glamour.

ABOUT H&M STUDIO

H&M Studio is H&M’s biannual, most fashion-forward collection. Created by a dedicated design team, the limited-edition collection of trend-led looks and statement pieces has in the past been unveiled during Paris Fashion Week with a runway show. In 2019 it will adopt an innovative immersive theatre format.

*H&M is proud to be a sustainable brand promoting second-hand use of clothing with their Garment Collection program. Drop your bag of unwanted clothing (any brand, any condition) in the recycling box at your local H&M store. For more information, please click the link here.

T.J. Martell Foundation and the NYC Marathon

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T.J. Martell Foundation for Cancer Research Named an Official Charity Partner of the 2019 TCS New York City Marathon Set for Sunday, November 3, 2019

The T.J. Martell Foundation for Cancer was named an Official Charity Partner of the 2019 TCS New York City Marathon, it was announced today. The race will take place on Sunday, November 3, 2019.  

“The T.J. Martell Foundation is thrilled to be named an official charity partner of the 2019 TCS New York City Marathon,” said Laura Heatherly, CEO. “The TCS New York City Marathon provides a unique platform for thousands of dedicated runners to pursue their goals while raising awareness for causes that are close to their hearts. We are proud to support our team on their journey to the iconic finish line as they raise important for our cancer research programs.”

The T.J. Martell Foundation kicked off its Team T.J. Martell at the 2018 Hamptons Marathon and Half, where a team of 10 runners raised over $48,000 for cancer research programs at flagship hospitals across the country.

“New York Road Runners is honored to have the T.J. Martell Foundation joining us as an official charity partner for the 2019 TCS New York City Marathon,” said Christine Burke, vice president of runner products and strategic partnerships for NYRR. “Taking on the five boroughs of New York City while raising funds and awareness for important causes is truly inspiring. We are proud to support the efforts of the T.J. Martell Foundation’s team, and all of our charity runners, and wish them the best of luck as they begin their journey to the 2019 TCS New York City Marathon.”

Since its inception in 2006, the TCS New York City Marathon official charity partner program has raised $310 million, including $40 million at the 2018 TCS New York City Marathon. For more information on the official charity partner program, please visit: http://www.tcsnycmarathon.org/plan-your-race/run-for-charity

About the T.J. Martell Foundation

The T.J. Martell Foundation is the music industry’s leading foundation that funds innovative medical research focused on finding treatments and cures for cancer. The Foundation was founded in 1975 by music industry executive Tony Martell and his colleagues in loving memory of his son T.J., who died of leukemia. The Foundation has provided more than $280 million for research at flagship hospitals in the United States. For more information, please visit www.tjmartell.org.

About the TCS New York City Marathon

The TCS New York City Marathon is the largest marathon in the world and the signature event of New York Road Runners (NYRR), the world’s premier community running organization. The race is held annually on the first Sunday of November and includes over 50,000 runners, from the world’s top professional athletes to runners of all ages and abilities, including 10,000 charity runners. Participants from over 125 countries tour the diverse neighborhoods of New York City’s five boroughs—Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan. Race morning also features the Rising New York Road Runners Youth Invitational at the TCS New York City Marathon, a race within Central Park that ends at the marathon finish line. More than one million spectators and 10,000 volunteers line the city’s streets in support of the runners, while millions more watch the globally televised broadcast. The race is a founding member of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, which features the world’s top marathons—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York.Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), a leading global IT services, consulting, and business solutions organization, is the premier partner of NYRR and the title sponsor of the TCS New York City Marathon. The 49th running of the TCS New York City Marathon is set for November 3, 2019. To learn more, visit www.tcsnycmarathon.org  or follow them on Instagram.

bülow Releases Video for Sweet Little Lies

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BÜLOW RELEASES OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO FOR “SWEET LITTLE LIES” TODAY

WATCH HERE: http://youtu.be/K5R5FF1KKmw

SPECIAL SXSW PERFORMANCES PLANNED NEXT WEEK

Critically acclaimed German born pop iconoclast bülow releases the official music video for her new single “Sweet Little Lies” today via Republic Records / Wax Records/ Universal Music Canada. The video was shot on location by Armadillo Films in Orangeville Ontario whose rural setting provided an added element of intrigue and mystery to the catchy track that dropped late last month. Watch HERE. Listen HERE.

Commenting on the song and video concept that she envisioned, bülow remarked, “The song is light but has dark undertones. I wanted to show the contrast of your mind. Your imagination is so damn powerful, it can make you feel so good…but also be your worst enemy.”

bülow recently received four nominations for the 2019 JUNO Awards, including Pop Album of the Year and Breakthrough Artist of the Year.  Ahead of performing at the 2019 JUNO Awards on March 17, music fans can catch her at SXSW in Austin, TX performing at the VEVO Showcase (March 12) & Neon Gold Official SXSW Showcase (March 13).

About bülow

bülow has previously released Damaged Vol. 1 & Damaged Vol. 2, each instantly resonated with critics and new fans alike.  Damaged Vol. 1 included “Like This Guy”, “Lines”, and fan favorite “Not A Love Song” which to date has clocked over 83 million streams and earned praise as “beautifully crafted” (NME), “pop genius” (Noisey), and a “star in the making” (Pigeon & Planes).  Damaged Vol. 2 included “You & Jennifer,“Honor Roll,” and buzzworthy “SAD AND BORED,” praised by PAPER as, “the perfect pop study in contrasts, and further confirms bülow as an artist to watch with razor-sharp wit to boot.” As well as HillyDilly calling her “one of the brightest new talents in pop.”  Last year also saw bülow release much buzzed about “Two Punks In Love” and embark on the road with Fickle Friends last Fall. A child of the globe, bülow has grown up in five countries including Canada, Germany, the UK, the US, and just recently finished high-school in The Netherlands. Although bülow has only just begun her musical journey with these recent releases, the music already stands tall as an impressive flag-bearer for things to come.

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Manuel Turizo Hits #1 With Single “Sola”

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Manuel Turizo leads with his hit “Sola” the radio billboard of the United States

Watch the new music video here!

Manuel Turizo, celebrates his first # 1 on radio stations in the United States, thanks to his extraordinary single “Sola,” which was produced by Sky under the La Industria Inc. label.
The latest Billboard report certifies that Colombian phenomena, as well as a new sensation of the urban genre, have just been crowned for the first time alone in the # 1 position of radio stations in the United States; a feat that previously had already achieved thanks to the theme “Crazy Pod” with Ozuna still hovering around the top positions in the world.
Officially, Manuel Turizo stands out as # 1 on the charts: Latin Airplay Chart and Latin Rhythm Airplay Chart, thanks to the incredible reception that the single “Sola” has had.
Without a doubt, the teamwork and the tireless effort has paid off in the artistic career of the Colombians. Not only have they gained the affection of more than 5 million followers, but they have been creditors of a respected place in the current music scene.
“It’s amazing everything that we have done in a short time, we deeply appreciate those who ask for our songs on the radio, we’ll soon come with much more, because we are working very hard and this is just the beginning of everything we want to achieve.” Manuel Turizo affirms.
Additionally, Manuel and Julián Turizo celebrate their nomination as Best New Artist at the iHeart Music Awards and they are also preparing their first musical album, which will be available soon under the Sony Music label.

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Finance Trends for 2019 and Beyond

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Trends That Will Impact the Finance Industry 2019 – 2020 and Beyond

It is undeniable that the pace of technological advancement is the major force behind the changes happening in the global financial services industry (FSI). Financial institutions are left with no choice but to adapt their business models accordingly to remain competitive in the markets they operate.

FSI outlook reports for 2019 to 2020 and beyond by various top financial consulting firms in the world, PwC , Cooper Parry and Deloitte, show that FinTech, digitization of operations, data analytics, client self-service, and blockchain are the most likely sources of disruptions in the financial services industry over the next two years. This article captures the real-world implications of these changes and provides insight on how organizations can prepare to win in the increasingly dynamic playing field.

FinTech to Steer the new Business Model

Today, there is nothing more disruptive in finance than FinTech. Using service-oriented innovative technology, FinTech start-ups have finally become the unopposable tools for breaking into financial services. A recent Global FinTech Survey by PwC showed that traditional players are worried of losing about 25% of their business to standalone FinTech start-ups within the next 5 years.

In a smart move to remain competent in the industry, incumbents are smartly embracing disruptions. Large to small financial institutions have come to the realization that it is no longer about integrating technology into business operations but using financial technology as a central facet of new business models.

Analytics: Key Decision-making Tool

Data has never been more critical to businesses like it is today. Data analytics combined with artificial intelligence and machine learning will be key technological trendsetters for the financial services industry in 2019 and beyond.

Business analytics is continually becoming an essential tool for truly transforming financial institutions into data-driven organizations. Financial institutions are expected to invest in technologies surrounding data analytics to realize the massive power of data on hand and that which they can collect (big data). 2019 and 2020 will therefore witness massive increase in data utilization by these institutions. Even institutions that offer products for Forex trading for beginners are keen to use advanced data utilization technologies to ensure that their customers are able to make profitable Forex trades from the onset of their careers.

Mainstream Digitization

Retail banking, payments, insurance, and wealth management are areas in which digitization of operations is already taking place at great lengths industry-wide. With internet development and continuous technological advancement, financial institutions are putting more investments into digitization of more and more business operations to achieve more efficiency.

The e-commerce way of doing things has become the new normal in financial services. This is evidenced by the tendency by financial organizations to transform traditional operational units into e-business units. This trend has also caught pace in financial regulatory institutions.

Shift to Client Self-service and Increasing Value of Customer Intelligence

Delivering superior client experience is one of the major competition grounds for banks, insurance companies and investment management firms. Every other day, these organizations are looking for new technologies to provide more relevant services to their clients and in the most seamless ways. Self-service platforms are especially growing in popularity.

As services become digitized, financial institutions are keen to provide technology-based solutions that add value and enhance client experience. It is no longer just increase the number of self-service functionalities.

Of critical importance is making sure that technological capabilities being developed are customer-intelligent. Customer intelligence deals with how an organization interacts with its customer as it seeks to meet the client’s needs. Being customer intelligent is a key trend that will potentially drive FSI revenue and profitability going forward.

Blockchain Will Become an Integral Part of Financial Institutions

Just recently, one of the world’s biggest banks, HSBC, reported how using a blockchain-based system enabled it to make significant cost savings on Forex transactions. It is evident that blockchain has started shaking things up in financial services. There is a surge in funding and innovation in FinTech and blockchain. There are convincing signs that the use of blockchain is likely to become a crucial part of financial institutions’ operational and technological infrastructure.

Adaptability: How to Win in Financial Services

Future winners in FSI are institutions that can envision and execute initiatives at a faster pace than the speed of change. The institution must have an evolving mindset and culture to enable it acquire the right talent and capabilities that will help to develop flexibility and innovativeness. It must also be prepared to invest adequately in securing its brand as a technology leader among its competitors. This is the only way to gain sustainable growth in the increasingly digital future.