With a significant increase in global demand for cloud services and data security, the managed services market is expected to reach an estimated $393.02 billion by 2025. Factors contributing to this growth include the need for specialized providers to manage complex IT infrastructures and the rising trend of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), which necessitates enhanced data security measures. North America leads the market, but Europe and Asia-Pacific are also experiencing substantial growth driven by cloud adoption and digital transformation.The episode highlights a recent report indicating a slowdown in managed services revenue growth, returning to pre-COVID levels, despite strong profitability for managed service providers (MSPs). The average adjusted EBITDA for MSPs stands at 13.2%, with private equity-backed MSPs reporting even higher figures. In contrast, value-added resellers (VARs) have seen significant revenue growth, particularly in Europe, which experienced a 6.9% increase in managed services revenue. The discussion emphasizes the need for MSPs to adapt to changing client spending patterns as the market normalizes.Host Dave Sobel also covers the competitive landscape, noting several key announcements from major players in the industry. ConnectWise has launched a Professional Services Automation (PSA) initiative aimed at enhancing MSP success through streamlined processes and improved efficiency. Meanwhile, NineMinds has introduced Alga PSA, a free open-source platform designed to compete with established PSA providers, and SuperOps has unveiled Monika, an AI-powered companion for MSPs that offers personalized insights and solutions. These developments signal a shift in the market as new entrants challenge traditional providers.The episode concludes with a focus on the growing importance of cybersecurity and the need for human expertise in addressing complex threats. As the demand for AI services continues to exceed supply, the global cloud market has reached an impressive $84 billion, with major players like AWS, Microsoft, and Google Cloud holding a significant share. Solt encourages listeners to consider the implications of these trends for the future of managed services and the evolving landscape of IT solutions. Four things to know today00:00 IT and Managed Services Market Faces Growth Normalization as Global Demand for Cloud and Data Security Soars06:49 IT Nation Connect: ConnectWise Expands Asio with PSA Integration, Security Enhancements, and Unified Data Protection for MSPs08:38 Competitive Moves in PSA: NineMinds Launches Open-Source Alga PSA as SuperOps Introduces AI Companion Monica for MSPs10:50 Pax8 Adds EasyDMARC, 8x8 Unveils AI Upgrades, and Connecty AI Secures Funding: A Look at New Cloud and Data Management Solutions  Supported by: https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/https://mspradio.com/engage/    All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Wayne Selk from CompTIA joins host Dave Sobel to focus on the current state of cybersecurity and the challenges faced by Managed Service Providers (MSPs). They delve into CompTIA's recent state of cybersecurity report, which highlights a significant gap between cybersecurity investments and the outcomes achieved. This disconnect raises critical questions about how MSPs can better align their efforts with business objectives to ensure effective cybersecurity practices.Wayne emphasizes the importance of education and training for individuals within the cybersecurity field, noting that many professionals struggle to find the right resources to enhance their understanding of cybersecurity nuances. He points out that while annual security awareness training is beneficial, there is a need for more targeted training that addresses the specific roles and responsibilities of individuals within an organization. This lack of clarity contributes to the broader issue of MSPs not fully grasping the business outcomes they should be aiming for in their cybersecurity strategies.The discussion also touches on the perception of cybersecurity among professionals, with only 25% feeling optimistic about its direction. Wayne argues that many MSP owners come from a purely technical background, lacking the business acumen necessary to develop effective risk management programs. He stresses the need for MSPs to work on their business objectives and create comprehensive business plans that align with their cybersecurity goals. By doing so, they can better prioritize their investments and training efforts, ultimately leading to improved outcomes.As the conversation progresses, Wayne and Dave explore the implications of upcoming regulations, such as CMMC 2.0, and the need for vendors to adopt secure-by-design and secure-by-default practices. They discuss the importance of accountability in the software development process and the potential for regulation to drive change in the tech industry. The episode concludes with a call to action for MSPs to embrace foundational cybersecurity practices and leverage available resources to enhance their understanding and implementation of effective cybersecurity measures. Supported by: https://mspradio.com/engage/   All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

In this bonus episode of the Business of Tech, host Dave Sobel engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Naveen Krishnan, an AI architect at Microsoft. The conversation centers around the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and its applications across various industries, including retail, financial services, and manufacturing. Nupi shares insights into how businesses are increasingly looking to integrate AI into their existing solutions or develop new ones, highlighting the importance of understanding each customer's unique needs and use cases.Krishnan elaborates on the common use cases for AI that he encounters, emphasizing the growing interest in chat capabilities and dynamic reporting. He explains how businesses are moving away from traditional canned reports and seeking more interactive, natural language-driven reporting solutions. Additionally, he discusses the rise of AI agents, which can perform tasks autonomously, such as generating images or managing DevOps pipelines, showcasing the potential for AI to streamline operations and enhance productivity.The conversation also delves into the critical role of data management in successful AI implementations. Krishnan distinguishes between structured and unstructured data, explaining the necessity of preparing data effectively to leverage AI's capabilities. He outlines strategies for managing data, including creating views to filter relevant information and implementing security measures to protect sensitive data. Krishnan emphasizes the importance of a well-structured data pipeline, particularly for industries dealing with large volumes of unstructured text, such as law firms.As the episode concludes, Krishnan shares his vision for the future of AI over the next 24 months, predicting a focus on refining existing technologies and addressing current limitations. He anticipates the emergence of more sophisticated AI agents that can perform complex tasks and interact seamlessly with users. This forward-looking perspective highlights the ongoing innovation in the AI space and the potential for businesses to harness these advancements to drive efficiency and improve customer experiences.Supported by: https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/     All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

In this episode of The Business of Tech, host Dave Sobel engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Aaron Painter, CEO of NameTag, about the evolving landscape of identity verification in the face of emerging threats like deep fakes. The conversation begins with an exploration of traditional identity verification methods, particularly multi-factor authentication (MFA), and their limitations. Painter emphasizes that while MFA is a critical first step in securing accounts, it is not sufficient on its own, especially when recovery processes can be exploited by malicious actors impersonating legitimate users.As the dialogue progresses, Painter introduces the concept of behavioral biometrics and AI-powered verification as potential advancements in security. He explains how these technologies can monitor user behavior to determine if the person accessing an account is indeed the same individual who logged in. However, he also highlights the challenges associated with these methods, particularly in scenarios where identity verification is crucial, such as during account recovery or hiring processes. The discussion underscores the need for more robust identity verification practices that go beyond traditional methods.The episode also delves into the growing adoption of passkeys as a solution for identity verification. Painter notes that while passkeys are gaining traction, particularly among larger tech companies, their implementation in small to mid-sized businesses remains limited. He points out that passkeys are not a complete replacement for passwords and still rely on traditional recovery methods, which can create vulnerabilities. This leads to a broader conversation about the importance of understanding the limitations of current technologies and the need for a comprehensive approach to identity security.Finally, the conversation shifts to the implications of deep fakes on identity verification. Painter warns that the technology enabling deep fakes has become increasingly accessible, posing significant risks for organizations relying on visual verification methods. He advocates for a more advanced approach to identity verification that combines AI, cryptography, and biometrics to create a stronger defense against impersonation. The episode concludes with a call to action for organizations to rethink their identity verification processes and adapt to the evolving threat landscape, emphasizing the importance of knowing who users are in a digital world.  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Cisco's 2024 Consumer Privacy Survey  reveals a growing awareness among consumers regarding data privacy and its correlation with trust in artificial intelligence. The survey indicates that 53% of consumers are now aware of their national privacy laws, a significant increase from previous years, and 81% of these informed individuals feel their data is protected. Notably, younger consumers are taking proactive steps to safeguard their privacy, with nearly half of those aged 25 to 34 having switched providers due to data policies. This shift towards privacy-centric behavior underscores the importance for businesses to prioritize transparency and secure data practices.The episode also highlights recent developments in the managed services provider (MSP) landscape, including Pax8's launch of the Voyager Alliance Partner Program, which aims to support global partners in the cloud commerce marketplace. This program emphasizes a partner-first approach, offering tailored support and tiered benefits as partners progress. Additionally, Amazon Web Services (AWS) has introduced the Generative AI Partner Innovation Alliance, connecting customers with AI and machine learning experts to develop generative AI solutions. These initiatives reflect a broader trend of leveraging partnerships and marketplaces to enhance service offerings and customer support.Host Dave Sobel further discusses the expansion of Nerdio's Manager for MSP platform, which now includes modern work capabilities for managing Microsoft 365 environments. This update aims to streamline operations for MSPs and improve efficiency with a new per-tenant pricing model that is more affordable for businesses of all sizes. The episode also touches on Evergreen's recent acquisitions of PCGIT and Netronom, as well as ConnectWise's efforts to strengthen its cybersecurity offerings in Europe through compliance with the EU's Network Information Security Directive.Finally, the episode delves into the evolving role of CIOs in navigating disruptions such as service outages and data breaches. Jennica McHugh from Accenture emphasizes the need for CIOs to advocate for funding aimed at risk mitigation and to prioritize public reputation during crises. The discussion also includes insights from Vishal V. Paraspath of Resilience, who urges industry leaders to reassess vendor reliability and risk management strategies in light of recent cyber incidents. Overall, the episode provides a comprehensive overview of current trends and challenges in the tech landscape, encouraging listeners to consider their own strategies for growth and compliance in a rapidly changing environment. Four things to know today00:00 Privacy Awareness Soars: Cisco Survey Links Consumer Trust to AI and Data Protection Practices03:13 AWS and Pax8 Launch Programs to Empower Partners in AI and Cloud Commerce Marketplaces05:06 Consolidation and Certification Shape MSP Landscape: Nerdio’s Pricing Innovation, Evergreen’s Growth, and ConnectWise’s EU Compliance07:54 Proactive Risk Management and Compliance Take Center Stage as CIOs Turn Disruptions into Funding Opportunities  Supported by:  http://blumira.com/radio/     All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

The findings of a recent report highlight the challenges faced by C-suite executives regarding aging IT systems amidst a surge in AI adoption. While 90% of executives believe their technology is top-notch, nearly two-thirds acknowledge that outdated infrastructure poses significant issues, with many critical IT systems nearing the end of their life cycle. The report also reveals that although 75% of organizations are investing in AI and machine learning, less than half report a positive return on investment, raising concerns about cyber attack preparedness among executives.The episode also delves into a growing trend of cloud repatriation, as organizations grapple with unexpected costs and performance issues in cloud environments. A recent IDC report indicates that 50% of companies spent more on cloud services than anticipated, prompting some to transition specific workloads back in-house. The case of SaaS company 37Signals, which plans to save $10 million over five years by moving away from cloud services, exemplifies this trend. Sobel emphasizes the importance of differentiating between various levels of AI adoption, noting that many organizations may only be conducting small-scale experiments rather than full-scale implementations.Host Dave Sobel highlights the rising threat of voice-based AI scams, referencing a study from the University of Illinois that demonstrates how OpenAI's ChatGPT-4 can be exploited for financial scams with success rates between 20% to 60%. Additionally, he discusses a new threat campaign where hackers impersonate IT support on Microsoft Teams, urging organizations to implement training programs to raise awareness of evolving social engineering threats. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has also issued warnings about a large-scale spear-phishing campaign targeting federal executives, emphasizing the need for protective measures.Finally, the episode covers significant developments in automation and AI within the managed services sector, particularly at DattoCon, where Kaseya projected that up to 70% of repetitive tasks performed by managed service providers will be automated by 2026. Sobel also discusses Runway's innovative AI tool that customizes outreach to potential clients, reflecting a broader trend of leveraging AI to optimize sales processes. The episode concludes with a discussion on the general availability of Windows Server 2025, which introduces significant advancements and is positioned as a robust solution for on-premises and hybrid cloud deployments. Four things to know today00:00 Kyndryl Report Reveals Struggle with Aging IT as AI Adoption Soars but ROI Falls Short, Fueling Demand for Service Support04:18 Voice-Based AI Scams Rise as Study Shows ChatGPT Vulnerability; New Tactics on Microsoft Teams and Spear Phishing Surge06:20 At DattoCon, Kaseya Emphasizes Automation as Core to MSP Efficiency, Parallel to Runway's AI-Enhanced Sales Tactics08:50 Microsoft Launches Windows Server 2025 with Hybrid Enhancements as KnowBe4 Unveils New Security Training Post-Breach  Supported by:  https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/https://mspradio.com/engage/     All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

The latest economic indicators highlight a steady U.S. GDP growth rate of 2.8% for the third quarter of 2024. This growth is supported by a notable increase in consumer spending, which rose at a 3.7% annualized rate. However, the job market shows signs of stagnation, with only 12,000 new jobs added in October, raising concerns about underlying weaknesses. Despite the unemployment rate remaining steady at 4.1%, the episode emphasizes the challenges faced by small businesses in filling job vacancies, particularly in sectors like construction and transportation.Host Dave Sobel also delves into the tech employment landscape, noting that while the tech unemployment rate held steady at 2.6%, the sector experienced a slight decline in jobs. The report from CompTIA indicates a positive trend in job listings for tech positions, but the overall employment numbers reflect a tightening labor market. The episode highlights the struggles small businesses face in hiring qualified candidates, with many owners reporting unfilled job openings and a decrease in hiring efforts.The episode shifts focus to Intel, which has reported a staggering $16.6 billion loss for the third quarter, marking the largest quarterly loss in its history. This loss is attributed to significant asset depreciation and restructuring charges following substantial layoffs. Sobel discusses the competitive landscape, particularly the challenges Intel faces from rivals like Nvidia and AMD in the AI chip market. In contrast, Reddit has reported its first profitable quarter as a public company, showcasing a significant turnaround and strong investor confidence.Finally, the episode covers the acquisition of CompTIA's certification business by HIG Capital and Thoma Bravo, transitioning it to a for-profit model. This move raises questions about the future of CompTIA's mission to serve the IT industry and the implications for its existing non-profit organization. Sobel encourages listeners to reevaluate their relationships with CompTIA in light of these changes, emphasizing the evolving landscape of certification and training in the tech industry. Three things to know today00:00 US GDP Growth Holds Steady at 2.8%, But Job Market Weakens Amid Small Business Hiring Struggles and Tech Stability05:15 Intel Reports Record $16.6 Billion Loss Amid Layoffs and Depreciation, While Reddit Achieves First Profitable Quarter07:10 H.I.G. Capital and Thoma Bravo to Acquire CompTIA’s Certification Business, Transitioning to For-Profit Model  Supported by:  https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/https://mspradio.com/engage/       All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Host Dave Sobel engages in a fascinating discussion with Dr. A. K. Pradeep, a pioneer in the emerging field of neuro-AI. The conversation explores the intersection of neuroscience and generative AI, highlighting how insights from neuroscience can enhance the effectiveness of AI technologies in understanding consumer behavior. Dr. Pradeep emphasizes the importance of integrating these insights into AI algorithms to create more meaningful and persuasive marketing strategies, rather than relying solely on generative AI's creative outputs.Dr. Pradeep explains that traditional generative AI models often lack the depth of understanding required to effectively engage consumers. By incorporating neuroscience principles, businesses can better grasp what motivates consumers and how to craft messages that resonate with them. He likens the integration of neuroscience and generative AI to building with Lego blocks, where each discipline serves as a crucial component in creating a more powerful and effective tool for innovation and marketing.The episode also delves into practical applications of neuro-AI for small and medium-sized businesses. Dr. Pradeep discusses how his company, Sensory.ai, has developed platforms that come pre-equipped with neuroscience insights, allowing businesses to focus on their core operations without the burden of extensive model training. Instead of reinventing the wheel, business owners can provide specific guardrails to guide the AI in generating tailored content that aligns with their brand and target audience.Finally, the conversation touches on the potential for neuro-AI to drive innovation by uncovering non-conscious consumer needs that traditional market research methods often overlook. Dr. Pradeep shares his experience with algorithms that can innovate product ideas based on deep consumer insights, ultimately empowering small businesses to protect their intellectual property through automated provisional patent generation. This episode offers a compelling look at how the fusion of neuroscience and AI can transform marketing and product development, enabling businesses to connect more effectively with their customers. Supported by: https://getthread.com/mspradio/https://www.coreview.com/msp/    All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

In this episode of the Business of Tech Lounge, host Dave Sobel engages with UK-based journalist Simon Quicke, who brings a wealth of experience covering the IT channel and managed services. The discussion centers around current trends affecting IT services, particularly the impact of artificial intelligence (AI), regulatory changes, and employment dynamics within the industry. Sobel emphasizes the importance of understanding market differences, especially between the UK and the US, as they explore how these trends are shaping the future of IT services.Simon Quicke shares insights into the evolving landscape of AI adoption among managed service providers (MSPs) and IT services. He notes that while there has been significant interest in AI, many organizations are still grappling with how to effectively implement it. The conversation highlights the dual process of customers learning to utilize AI tools and the channel partners embracing these technologies themselves. Quicke points out that the real breakthrough in AI will require a cultural shift, where customers understand its practical applications and benefits.The episode also delves into the current job market for IT providers in the UK, referencing a recent report from CompTIA that indicates a projected growth in tech employment. Quicke discusses the challenges of hiring skilled professionals and the ongoing efforts by MSPs to address the skills gap through apprenticeship programs and reskilling initiatives. He emphasizes the importance of investing in young talent and diversifying the workforce to ensure the industry's future sustainability.Finally, the conversation touches on the regulatory landscape, particularly the influence of EU regulations on the UK market post-Brexit. Quicke explains how these regulations present both challenges and opportunities for MSPs, as they must navigate compliance while also leveraging it to engage customers. The episode concludes with a reflection on the role of the press in the channel, highlighting the shift from merely reporting news to identifying trends and providing valuable insights that help businesses adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing environment.Supported by: https://salesbuildr.com/  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Microsoft reported a strong fiscal first quarter for 2025, surpassing earnings expectations with a notable 33% growth in Azure revenue, driven by AI services. However, the company is facing cloud capacity constraints and has announced substantial investments to enhance data center capacity, reflecting the booming demand for AI. Despite this growth, Microsoft’s investment in OpenAI is projected to result in significant losses this quarter.Alphabet, the parent company of Google, also reported impressive earnings, with Google Cloud experiencing a 35% growth rate in the third quarter of 2024. CEO Sundar Pichai attributed this acceleration to advancements in AI, which are attracting new customers and increasing usage among existing ones. Meanwhile, Amazon exceeded earnings expectations, with its advertising business and Amazon Web Services showing strong growth. CEO Andy Jassy announced plans for substantial capital expenditures focused on technology infrastructure and generative AI, indicating a continued commitment to innovation in the cloud space.In addition to earnings reports, the episode covers Microsoft’s delayed rollout of its AI-powered Recall feature for Copilot Plus PCs, which has faced multiple setbacks due to security concerns. The feature aims to enhance user privacy and will be available as an opt-in option. Microsoft also announced a new program allowing consumers to purchase extended security updates for Windows 10, highlighting the ongoing relevance of the operating system despite the push for upgrades to Windows 11.The episode concludes with a discussion on the societal implications of AI in media, featuring a Polish radio station that has begun using AI hosts in an experimental format. This move has sparked controversy and a petition against the shift, raising questions about the future of human roles in journalism. Additionally, experts caution about the limitations of generative AI for enterprises, emphasizing the need for human oversight in critical decision-making processes. The episode invites listeners to reflect on the balance between AI hype and real-world implementation, particularly in the context of ongoing technological advancements. Four things to know today 00:00 Cloud Leaders See Strong Earnings as AI Demand Drives High Capital Spending, Fueling Data Center Boom04:41 Microsoft Delays AI-Powered Recall Feature Again, Highlights Privacy Hurdles for Windows Copilot Users07:08 ChatGPT Expands with Real-Time Web Search and Voice Features, Targeting Broader Applications for Small Businesses and Enterprise Users08:37 AI as the New Voice of Media? Polish Radio Station OFF Radio Krakow Tests AI Hosts Amid Public Pushback  Supported by:  https://msrpadio.com/engage/     All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech