Latest Industry Trends News
B2B Software Equities Plunge 10% in January 2026
The unweighted B2B software universe declined over 10% in January amid AI disruption and macro uncertainty, while mega-caps showed resilience. Smaller mid-cap firms in vertical software, applications, and infrastructure suffered most, with EBITDA multiples compressing below 18x.
European software trades at 3.1x EV/Sales versus North America's higher growth expectations.
Cobalt-Free Batteries Market to Reach USD 5.77 Billion by 2035
Global cobalt-free batteries market, valued at USD 1.83 billion in 2025, projected to grow from USD 2.05 billion in 2026, driven by LFP and sodium-ion technologies. LFP dominates for its thermal stability up to 270°C, ideal for EVs and energy storage systems growing at 10.8% CAGR.
Renewable energy segment expected at 11.1% CAGR due to cost advantages over NCM batteries.
Himadri Accelerates Entry into EV Battery Materials
In February 2026, Himadri Speciality Chemicals initiated talks with global EV makers to supply LFP cathode materials, targeting cost-effective safer chemistries. This move strengthens its role in energy storage amid rising demand for cobalt-free solutions.
Leaders like CATL and BYD focus on LFP and Na-ion for EVs and grids.
Schroders Joins Nuveen in £9.9bn Landmark Deal
Schroders and Nuveen announced a major £9.9bn deal, marking significant consolidation in asset management. This fintech-related merger highlights ongoing M&A activity in financial services.
It positions both firms for growth in wealth management sectors.
ASX CEO Helen Lofthouse to Step Down in May
Australian Securities Exchange CEO Helen Lofthouse will depart in May 2026, amid key leadership changes in fintech and exchange sectors. This follows a period of strategic developments for the ASX.
Succession planning underway as markets evolve.
NatWest Acquires Evelyn Partners for £2.7bn
NatWest secured a £2.7bn deal to buy Evelyn Partners, expanding into wealth management. The acquisition bolsters NatWest's position in high-growth financial services.
It reflects aggressive M&A trends in UK fintech.
Upstart Promotes CTO Paul Gu to CEO
Fintech firm Upstart elevated CTO Paul Gu to CEO, succeeding co-founder Dave Girouard. This leadership shift aims to drive innovation in AI lending amid industry trends.
Upstart continues focus on tech-driven financial solutions.
MrBeast Acquires Fintech App Step
YouTuber MrBeast bought financial services app Step, entering fintech with celebrity backing. The deal underscores influencer impact on consumer finance trends.
Beast Industries involved in expanding digital banking access.
Real Estate Market Shows Pent-Up Demand Surge
New listings up 21.7% and pending sales up 11.2% signal release of pent-up supply and demand despite inflation and tariffs. Homes sell quickly with multiple offers, even in condos.
Cycle persists amid tech layoffs and global uncertainty.
Corn and Soybean Prices Fall in India
Corn prices dropped 10% and soybeans 4% as government allows duty-free US imports of soya oil and animal feed. This responds to global commodity tensions including Iran-US standoff.
Impacts agricultural trade and economic activity.
Commercial Vehicle Growth Signals India Economic Rise
Strong commercial vehicle sales indicate rising economic activity in India. Government pushes for US tariff waivers on textiles, benefiting exports.
Trade policies affect competitiveness in agriculture and textiles.
Banking Sector Invests ₹250 Cr in Automation
Indian bank plans ₹250 crore technical investment for automation, shifting to digital sales-driven model without layoffs. Reduces manual work amid fintech trends.
Highlights restructuring in financial services.