Productivity stories

Businesses that treat AI as a shiny toy, not a planned tool, risk waste, security gaps and stagnation as competitors move ahead.

New Zealand’s AI productivity promise will falter unless firms simplify systems, curb shadow AI and strengthen cybersecurity foundations.

Xero launches global beta of JAX-powered bank reconciliation, promising to auto-match over 80% of statement lines in real time.

AI has gone mainstream in wealth management, with most firms reporting positive returns and faster payoffs from early adoption, FNZ study shows.

Orgvue launches Henshaw AI to automate workforce planning, cutting months of data work to minutes and aiding firms like Salesforce in redesign efforts.

A survey reveals 81% of business leaders want AI tools that enhance teamwork, as current individual-focused AI limits collaboration and ROI globally.

Australia's National AI and Data Centre Plan sparks calls for enforceable energy standards amid rising power demands and concerns for small businesses.

A global survey reveals employers and staff clash over who should fund AI training, risking delays in digital transformation and workplace morale.

Australian SMEs show growing confidence into 2026, with rising revenue and increased digital adoption helping them tackle soaring energy costs and economic challenges.

Australia's SME sector posts strongest half-year growth since 2023, driven by digital adoption and productivity, nearing pre-pandemic output levels.

AI could boost New Zealand's productivity by NZD $108 billion by 2038, doubling current rates through improved skills, infrastructure, and public sector digitisation.

Leaders face tool overload and inefficiencies; smarter integrations that connect existing systems boost productivity, collaboration and decision-making.

Singapore launches a government-backed pilot to boost productivity by pairing firms with flexible, fractional executive hires for short-term leadership roles.

London-based Procure AI raised USD $13 million seed funding to expand its AI-driven procurement automation across Europe, boosting efficiency and cost savings.

The UK Autumn Budget boosts FinTech investment but lacks long-term plans for AI, cybersecurity, and manufacturing resilience, say industry leaders.

Chancellor’s Budget sparks industry fears over pension caps, LISA reforms, and urges UK firms to tackle digital and AI readiness amid £16bn productivity cost.

Samsung launches Galaxy Tab A11+ and Kids Edition in Australia, featuring Android 16, 5G, up to 8GB RAM, and advanced multitasking from AUD $379.

AI is now integral to 60% of warehouses globally, boosting productivity and resilience while reshaping workforces, reveals research by Mecalux and MIT.

UK Budget 2026 sparks concern in tech and construction over investment, tax changes, and public spending’s impact on growth and business confidence.

Australian businesses could unlock a USD $60bn productivity gain by saving 8%-10% on external supplier spend without job or performance cuts.