Home Blog Page 711

Aleksandr Katsuba: How artificial intelligence is reshaping fintech

0

Fintech is rapidly changing the established rules of the game. Artificial intelligence, machine learning and digital platforms are no longer just tools for optimisation… they are becoming the foundation of an entirely new financial ecosystem.

Services that once required days or weeks are now available instantly: from microloans and peer-to-peer transfers to fully digital customer verification. At the centre of these changes are visionaries unafraid to experiment and challenge the status quo.

One of them is Aleksandr Katsuba, entrepreneur and start-up founder, who has devoted the last several years to building scalable technological solutions for the global market.

Today, Aleksandr Katsuba is focused on implementing AI-driven algorithms in fintech services. His approach relies on modular architecture with open APIs, which allows companies to integrate new products quickly, launch them across different jurisdictions, and remain flexible to regulatory updates. This strategy is particularly important in a market where compliance and speed of adaptation determine competitiveness.

A key area of development for Katsuba is autonomous scoring and anti-fraud systems. These solutions analyse hundreds of parameters – from user behaviour patterns and geolocation activity to transaction history and device fingerprints.

“We aim for decisions to be both instant and highly accurate. Artificial intelligence allows us to eliminate the human factor, reduce operational costs and increase trust in the system,” Katsuba says.

Unlike traditional credit assessment models, AI-powered scoring systems are self-learning, meaning their accuracy grows over time as they process more data.

Under Katsuba’s leadership, e-KYC processes are also being rolled out that meet the strictest regulatory requirements. These solutions are integrated with AML, GDPR and other compliance frameworks, which makes his platforms equally suitable for operation in European, Asian and Middle Eastern markets.

The priority, as Katsuba emphasises, is not only security but also customer convenience – minimising the number of steps for the user while guaranteeing maximum protection for the provider.

Real-world results confirm the effectiveness of this approach

“For example, when we tested a new scoring module in Eastern Europe, AI detected abnormal behavioural patterns within seconds. In one case, the system blocked a fraudulent scheme before the user could even confirm the transaction. This experience shows that the right application of artificial intelligence can save businesses millions of dollars,” Katsuba explains.

Such cases highlight how fintech innovation is directly linked to financial resilience for both companies and customers.

Yet Katsuba views AI not merely as a set of technologies, but as a strategic instrument for transforming business models. His projects demonstrate how fintech can merge innovation, security and convenience, shaping a new standard of service where the customer is at the centre. For banks and financial platforms, this shift means moving from reactive to proactive systems that anticipate risks and client needs before they arise.

The fintech ecosystem is developing at unprecedented speed, and leaders like Aleksandr Katsuba are setting its direction. His initiatives show how innovation at the intersection of artificial intelligence and finance is creating not just competitive advantages, but new market standards for years to come.

Aleksandr Katsuba – AI and FinTech innovator shaping tomorrow’s economy.

THE NORTH’S DIRECT LINKS WITH CHINA RESTORED AS HAINAN AIRLINES RESUMES SERVICES

The airline started flights from the Northern hub in 2016, with the route going on to unlock hundreds of millions of pounds in trade, investment and tourism benefits.

The UK and Chinese governments last week agreed Manchester-China was one of the air corridors that could resume after a two-and-a-half year hiatus, and Hainan has moved quickly to start operating the popular service again, in time for the busy student season.

The news has been hailed as a major boost to the North and the UK’s levelling-up ambitions, with Manchester Airport becoming the only gateway outside of London with a direct service to mainland China.

Chris Woodroofe, Managing Director of Manchester Airport, said:

“Today’s announcement is clear evidence of the vital economic role that Manchester Airport plays, both in the North and the UK as a whole, as we emerge from the pandemic.

“Prior to 2020, the Hainan service provided vital connectivity to one of the world’s most important economies and I am sure this news will be welcomed by the hundreds of thousands of people across the North who travel to and from China each year.

“It is extremely positive to see critical routes like this return to our departure boards and we look forward to working closely with Hainan Airlines to build on the previous success of this route.”

Pre-pandemic, there were around 100,000 people a year who travelled between Manchester and Beijing from the airport’s catchment area.

Economic impact studies showed the route led to a 38% increase in Chinese visitors to the North, with an average spend per visit increasing by 94%, and export values grew by 41%.

The return of the route will also be incredibly encouraging for the more than 40 universities across the airport’s catchment area that welcome thousands of Chinese students each year.

Due to policy in China, the outbound service to Beijing will initially stop in the Chinese city of Dalian, but the inbound service will be direct from Beijing. From October the service will operate on a Tuesday.

Tao Zhu, the CEO from Hainan Airlines said:

“It is great to bring Hainan Airlines back to Manchester. Hainan Airlines is a 5-star Skytrax rated airline and we will operate an A330 aircraft on the route offering both economy and business classes. The flight arrives in Manchester at 10:00 each Monday and departs at 15:00.

“At the beginning of the resumption of flight, it will travel via Dalian first. After completing the seven days quarantine, passengers will be able to fly to other destinations within China according to their preferences.”

The route resumption has been welcomed by organisations across the North.

Rhys Whalley, Executive Director, Manchester China Forum (Acting Managing Director, MIDAS), said:

“We are delighted to see the return of Hainan Airlines to Manchester Airport. This is welcome news and signals our journey back to improved connectivity with Mainland China.

“Over the past couple of years, MCF has worked hand-in-hand with Hainan Airlines, the University of Manchester and wider partners to support students with the continuation of their studies through the operation of charter flights.

“The resumption of scheduled services between the UK and China is a very welcome development and one that will serve to accelerate post-pandemic recovery and engagement with the world’s leading growth economy.”

VisitEngland/VisitBritain CEO Patricia Yates said:
“We want to deliver a world-class welcome for returning Chinese visitors and the resumption of services making it easier for them to get here is a crucial part of our competitive tourism offer and recovery post-covid.

In 2019 China was the UK’s second most valuable inbound market, worth £1.7 Billion and Hainan’s direct route to Manchester will not only act as a gateway to the greater North West but also make it easier for visitors to come and explore regional Britain spreading the economic benefits of tourism growth across the UK.”

Zheng Xiyuan, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China to Manchester, said:

“On 23 October 2015, President Xi Jinping announced at Manchester Airport that Hainan Airlines would launch a direct flight from Beijing to Manchester, which would build a new bridge of cooperation between the two cities and the two countries. The route was suspended due to Covid-19, but even so, Hainan Airlines continued to send tens of thousands of Chinese students to Manchester on charter flights during the pandemic. Used mainly by Chinese students, the route is their way to pursue knowledge and their way home, and the bridge of white clouds carrying the longing of countless parents for their children, and the profound friendship between Chinese people and British people. I am very pleased that this route has been successfully re-launched, and it is the best way to mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of China-UK ambassadorial diplomatic relations.”

Hainan’s on-board service is highly-rated. Lie flat beds in business class provide optimum comfort and relaxation. Hainan Airlines chooses only fresh ingredients for its on-board meals. Passengers can sample the tastes of the world as they fly to China. Delicate and delicious Chinese food allows them to experience a taste of China. However, other world foods are also on offer, allowing passengers to experience their taste of home thousands of miles away. International award-winning beverages enhance the culinary experience. Furthermore, an extensive entertainment service is also available for passengers to enjoy as they while away the hours onboard.

Miller Homes Announces £100,000 Contribution To Enhance Oldham

0

As Miller Homes launches its exciting new development in Shaw, Oldham, it has announced how a £100,000 contribution to the area will be spent in the community.

The funds will be spent in off-site, open space enhancements to several local spots including High Crompton Park, Rochdale Road and Shaw.

This announcement comes as the homebuilder begins to embed itself within the Shaw community, recently teaming up with a longstanding local business, Ryder and Dutton, to establish a sales presence and get to know the locals. It is also in talks with some Oldham charities to begin supporting the more vulnerable in the community.

Briar View is an exciting development of 3 and 4 bedroom homes located in the popular, friendly area of Shaw. Each home has been designed with sustainability in mind, and offers versatile living for the modern family. As of August, the first homes have been digitally launched online and are available to reserve now, with the second phase to be released in the coming weeks.

Clare Noakes, Sales Director for Miller Homes North West says: “We’re pleased to share how our monetary contributions will improve the areas of Shaw and Oldham and we’re looking forward to creating new happy homes here. I’m definitely looking forward to undertaking further work with the community as work on Briar View development progresses!”

Those interested in Briar View can register their interest online, or book an appointment to meet Development Sales Manager Louise in the Ryder and Dutton Shaw office on Market Street and talk through options.

Hundreds of customer services advisors needed to meet peak demand

FM Outsource, a Bury-based provider of innovative outsourced customer service solutions, is launching a peak season recruitment drive to provide for its client roster of top UK brands.

As the company approaches the annual peak season for retailers and service providers, it is seeking to recruit around 400 new customer service advisors for both remote and office-based roles.

Team members can expect to work on several accounts across various sectors, supporting major household names including Superdrug, Hotel Chocolat, FedEx and Pret A Manger.

FM Outsource helps a wide range of clients to improve their customer experience and boost loyalty and sentiment by providing 24/7, multilingual, and omnichannel customer care, powered by cutting-edge proprietary technology.

The business has recently implemented a new learning and development system to facilitate high standards of remote onboarding and training, with the business now welcoming fully remote candidates as well as those based in the local area of Bury. This comes alongside its business-wide commitment to hybrid working prior to the pandemic.

FM Outsource offers a range of employee benefits, including access to an on-site gym and restaurant, frequent social events, and excellent bonus opportunities. It also offers an undergraduate scheme that develops graduates into ‘recruitment champions’ where they are tasked with assisting the recruitment team in funnelling in potential student recruits in exchange for a bonus.

Martin Brown, CCO of FM Outsource said: “This year we have invested heavily in recruitment, from attending fairs across the country to improving our processes. We want to ensure that we are providing a high-quality service for our clients all year round.

“The business has grown significantly over the past three years, with revenue soaring by 67%, so it is vital that we maintain this growth by making the team as strong and efficient as possible.

“One aspect we have sought to improve is the filtration of job applicants. We have introduced a new video recruitment system called Vidcruiter which allows us to filter candidates through online tests and video applications. We want to ensure we are only recruiting the best for our clients, which this system is enabling us to do, as we can quickly determine the most skilled and appropriate candidates. It also simplifies the process for candidates themselves, as the streamlined system makes job applications much easier.

“We pride ourselves on being a valued local employer that offers great internal support and progression opportunities. Many of our current senior management team started their career with us as customer services advisors. Taking an advisor role offers the opportunity to develop into a permanent team member and perhaps explore other areas of the business that take an interest.

“Looking ahead, by expanding our headcount, we can continue to meet the ever-changing expectations and demands of customers, whilst growing our impressive client roster further.”

To find out more about available roles, visit: https://fmoutsource.com/about-us/careers/

BOLTON AGENCY WINS NEW CONTRACT FOR SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT

0

Absolute Agency, based in Bolton, has been appointed by CarFinance 247 to support its sponsorship of leading World Rally Driver, Chris Ingram.

The team at Absolute will be creating social media content for CarFinance 247’s Instagram, Tik Tok and Facebook channels and will be joining Chris for the World Rally Championships where we follow the remainder, and most exciting part, of the season as he battles for the title. The run in kicks off with the WRC Rally Ypres in Belgium in mid August and also takes in Greece and Spain before it ends in Japan in December.

The team will capture video and stills content of Chris in his bid to win the WRC2 rally 2022 and bring rally fans closer to the action, whilst building a closer brand affinity with CarFinance 247.

Absolute currently works with CarFinance 247 to support its sponsorship of the Duckhams Yuasa Racing team in the Porsche Carrera Cup GB championship, where Porsche Junior Adam Smalley currently lies 3rd in the championship.

Absolute Agency Managing Director Chris Hodgen says “We have been delivering great content for CarFinance 247 over the last six months including the “Born to Race” documentary series (available on YouTube) as well as other social activations, so we are delighted to be appointed for this additional social media and content campaign.

“We love working with clients who really want to be pushed and try things outside their comfort zone. They really appreciate the value in delivering engaging content alongside their current sponsorship programmes and we are looking forward to delivering some amazing content and hopefully see Chris crowned champion.”

Chris Ingram is currently leading the WRC2 Junior standings in his Skoda Fabia Rally car after competing in four of the seven rounds, with Belgium, Spain and possibly Rally Japan still to come.

Louis Rix CEO of CarFinance 247 said ““We have been incredibly impressed with the assets and support that Absolute have delivered during our sponsorship of the Porsche Carrera Cup. The high standard of their work convinced us that they would also be the perfect partners to support our sponsorship of rally driver, Chris Ingram.

“Chris and Adam are exceptional drivers who combine their natural skill with hard work and dedication and we’re proud to support them both as they develop their motorsport careers.”

CarFinance 247 has been on a journey in recent years and is now proud to be the UK’s leading digital motor finance platform. Thanks to a wide panel of lenders, cutting-edge technology, and data science modelling, they are able to provide tailored finance options to customers with a wide range of circumstances and connect them with used vehicles from reputable dealerships across the UK. Whether they are looking for an HP loan for a Honda Civic or a PCP agreement on a Porsche 911, CarFinance 247 can provide a personalised, no-obligation quote in minutes.

Orega completes Management agreement at The Tootal Buildings, Manchester

0

Orega, the flexible workspace provider, has completed a Management Agreement with Pictet & XLB to create high spec flexible workspace at The Tootal Buildings, Manchester. The new space will be launched in December 2022.

Orega will be providing 20,000 sq. ft. of flexible newly refurbished premium private workspace on a phased basis within the building, in space which is designed to meet the significant demand for sub-5,000 sq ft space within the city centre.

There will be generous shared spaces to support collaboration and privacy pods for those who need to work quietly. In addition, Orega will offer substantial meeting and event spaces.

The Tootal Buildings are in Manchester’s Knowledge Corridor in the vibrant neighbourhood of Oxford Road in Central Manchester and are close to all major transport links such as the Metrolink at St Peter’s Square and Oxford Road train station.

The buildings have been awarded a Very Good certification from BREEAM for a sustainable built environment

The workspace offers brand new:

New reception, business lounge and café
A wide choice of different working zones
Award winning cycle and shower facilities
Inner courtyard gardens and amenity space
More space person than the industry norm
Unlimited barista-quality coffee, ordered by iPad technology
Secure sound proofing systems

It is the fifth flexible workspace that Orega has launched in Manchester and is hot on the heels on its completion of a 10-year Management Agreement to create 26,000 sq. ft. of high spec flexible workspace at 1 Balloon Street, Manchester, which opens in September 2022.

Orega now offers flex space from 19 locations across the UK and is the UK’s leading provider of flexible workspace under Management Agreements (as opposed to leases).

Ben Hutchen, Real Estate Director at Orega, commented: “With five flexible workspace centres in Manchester we believe we are successfully catering for the city’s booming businesses who are looking for a flexible way of working; a trend which we believe will become even more in demand with the current economic and political uncertainty and reluctance of businesses to be tied into long leases.”

“Our ground-breaking management agreement model allows our landlord partners the opportunity to make the most of their high-end quality office space whilst allowing them to retain control of their assets and brand.”

“We are delighted to add The Tootal Building to the Orega family in Manchester. The exceptional building and location are a natural fit for us, and we look forward to a long and mutually beneficial partnership with XLB and Pictet.”

Tony Lawson, Partner at XLB said, “This recent letting is testament to the importance occupiers place on providing the right environment for their staff and business. The Tootal Buildings provide a beautiful place to work, it has an active tenant community and strong underlying ESG credentials.”

Jonathan Cook, Director at CBRE, who advised the landlord said “Orega will make a fantastic addition to the tenant mix at the Tootal Buildings – with a solid proven track record in Manchester, they are the ideal flex operator to satisfy demand from occupiers who want to benefit from the St Peter’s Square interchange, massive talent pool in the micro-location and also Tootal’s huge transformation programme that XLB & Pictet have undertaken, providing best in class amenity.”

Ed Keany of Edwards & Co advised XLB & Pictet alongside joint agent CBRE.

Refresh grows purpose-driven portfolio with appointment of national food waste recycler

Manchester based PR and comms agency, Refresh, has been appointed by Keenan Recycling to elevate its national presence and help it reach key audience groups across its core sectors.

The food waste recycling specialist selected Refresh following a competitive pitch, thanks to the agency’s expertise across the food and waste sectors, teamed with its creative ideas and ability to think outside of the box.

Keenan Recycling was founded in 2001 and specialises in collecting food waste from the private sector, transforming it into an energy rich biofuel that is transported to anaerobic digesters whereby it is used to generate electricity, heat, and fuel.

Originally a garden waste composting business in Scotland, the family-run organisation, through acquisition and organic growth, now serves the entirety of the UK – with further exciting growth plans afoot.

Commenting on the appointment, Lucy Moore, associate director at Refresh said: “We’re thrilled to have been selected by Keenan Recycling to lead its UK PR activity. Despite Keenan growing its geographical presence hugely over the past few years, it is still viewed primarily as a Scottish organisation. We look forward to working with the business to change that! Holding vast experience in the recycling / circular economy sector, we’re thrilled to be able to put our knowledge and skills to use and further increase brand awareness of Keenan Recycling at such a significant time for the business.”

Grant Keenan, managing director at Keenan Recycling, added: “Over the past few years we’ve worked hard on getting the business to a point operationally where we can really put our foot on the gas to scale. We’re now in that position and with huge growth plans on the horizon, we’re looking forward to working with Refresh to elevate our brand awareness and build connections of commercial importance.”

Manchester business set to give away free Energy Management System to a North West SME

0

The Energy Management System worth £15,000 will help businesses save up to 40% on their energy bills

Manchester-based Pilot Group has launched a competition which will see Christmas come early for one North West SME.

The sustainability expert has announced that it will give away a free Energy Management System (EMS) worth up to £15,000 to a local business, helping them to tackle the upcoming and unprecedented rising energy bills.

The competition is now live and will run until 23rd September 2022, with entrants encouraged to enter via https://www.thepilotgroup.co.uk/services/ems-giveaway-2022/.

Pilot Group is committed to supporting organisations to meet their carbon reduction and cost-saving targets.

The North West-based business has decided to donate the product to support businesses across the region who are facing a sharp rise in gas and energy bills that shows little sign of slowing down.

It is estimated that the last three months of 2021 and the first quarter of 2022 saw average gas bills climb more than 250 percent.

Believing North West SMEs play a crucial role in supporting the British economy, Pilot Group has set itself a target of helping these businesses to reduce their gas consumption by 12,000,000 kWH in the next 12 months.

This would save approximately £1.26 million for local businesses off their gas bills and provide a carbon footprint reduction of 2,200 tonnes.

Through its core business areas, Pilot Group provides future-proofed infrastructure solutions for energy management, intelligent transport systems and electric vehicle charging.

Pilot Group hopes that its EMS will help a North West business rise to the challenges which are presented by the currently volatile energy market.

Archie MacPherson, Pilot Group Managing Director, said “The current state of the energy market has put additional financial pressures on businesses at an already tough time.

“We are proud to be a North West-based business and wouldn’t want to see an SME struggling to survive in these trying times. So, we have decided to give one of our systems away completely free of charge, from the equipment through to the installation.”

Shayne Wilson, Head of EMS Sales at Pilot Group, said: “Following numerous conversations with businesses Pilot Group recognised that some SMEs are seeing energy bills escalating through no fault of their own, putting financial strain and pressure on their operations.

“With SMEs being the beating heart of the British economy, and those in the North West a significant contributor to it, we want to make sure they can manage the burden of these bills and that is why we have launched this competition.”

Pilot Group’s EMS represents a significant return on investment, particularly for those using warm air blowers and plaque heaters to heat a large warehouse space.

Designed to control and monitor energy systems, the EMS uses smart sensors and a self-learning algorithm to enable heating systems to work more efficiently, reducing waste. Its user-friendly portal can be accessed remotely from any location or device with an internet connection, empowering users to monitor multiple sites and make significant carbon savings.

To be eligible to enter the competition, you must be a small or medium sized business based in the North West.

To enter the competition visit: https://www.thepilotgroup.co.uk/services/ems-giveaway-2022/.

Planning law specialist joins Aaron & Partners

Mark Turner has joined the legal firm’s Planning, Environment Energy and Regulatory team as a Partner

Top 200 law firm Aaron & Partners has moved to strengthen one of its core teams with the appointment of a new Partner.

Mark Turner has joined the Planning, Environment, Energy and Regulatory team and will support clients across the UK, including utilities firms, supermarkets, housebuilders and energy developers.

He links up with Aaron & Partners following almost a decade with FBC Manby Bowdler, where he managed many of the firm’s most high-profile clients with a focus on planning law.

Mark said: “I felt the time was right for a change and I’ve long admired Aaron & Partners – both in terms of the type of clients the firm supports, but also the calibre of people that work here.

“Some of the work is fascinating and we’re dealing with some incredibly high-profile cases, including the Hillside Parks case, which recently came before the Supreme Court. These are some of the things that really attracted me to the firm and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

Mark has acted for PLC housebuilders, SME developers, landowners and farmers, and will continue to work with a range of commercial clients for Aaron & Partners. He will advise on a wide range of matters including applications and appeals, Certificates of Lawfulness, High Court challenges, and enforcement.

David Harries, Aaron & Partners’ Head of Planning, Environmental, Energy and Regulatory, added: “We’re delighted to announce Mark as a new Partner within our team. He’s someone we’ve been closely connected to over the years, and I always felt he would be a wonderful addition to the firm, so I’m very pleased that he’s agreed to join us.

“As a department we are seeing increasing demand for our services, and I only expect that to continue. Mark is joining at a very exciting time and will play a key role in our future growth.”

NORTH WEST HOUSEBUILDER RAISES £5,000 CONQUERING THREE PEAKS CHALLENGE

0

THE North West team at national housebuilder Lovell swapped steel toe caps for walking boots as they completed the gruelling National Three Peaks Challenge and raised more than £5,000 for Manchester-based charity, The Mustard Tree.

Helping to combat poverty and homelessness, The Mustard Tree aims to create opportunities for people to help themselves. It provides practical support, friendship, connections into work, improvements to health and wellbeing, as well as new experiences to encourage aspiration.

Considered one of Britain’s toughest outdoor challenges, the brave team of 11 overcame blistering wind, rain and snowy conditions as they scaled Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in Wales all within 24 hours – walking 23 miles and ascending a total of 3,064 metres.

Hannah Thorpe, development coordinator at Lovell Homes, was the driving force in organising the walk and preparing the team for the challenge. She said: “The team were keen to do something collectively to raise money for The Mustard Tree and this seemed like the ultimate challenge. We have a number of sites across Greater Manchester – including The Gateway, Spinners Quarter and Miles Platting – and our head office is just down the road in Altrincham so supporting a local organisation was really important to us.

“Climbing the national three peaks in 24 hours was tremendously challenging but ultimately it was worthwhile for the staggering amount that we managed to raise for The Mustard tree – a charity that is doing vital work for communities in Manchester.”

Lee Sale, regional managing director at Lovell, added: “I want to say a huge well done to the team, not only is it a massive challenge but they raised an incredible amount of money in the process.

“Lovell has always been a strong believer in giving back to the community and, with the funds raised from this challenge, we can help people who are truly in need of aid and assistance. The Mustard Tree is a fantastic organisation and we’re thrilled to contribute to supporting the community in Greater Manchester where people can have the resources to be connected, supported, and valued.”

The Mustard Tree has been named as the North West’s charity of the year and will see the Lovell team tackling a number of further challenges in the coming year to raise essential funds, as part of a strong fundraising plan.

To donate and find out more, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/team/TeamLovellNW

For more information about Lovell Homes please visit www.lovell.co.uk or follow @Lovell_UK on Twitter.

For more information on The Mustard Tree visit https://mustardtree.org.uk/