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Global E-Commerce Data Library Launched

Payments and Commerce Market Intelligence (PCMI) has introduced the Global E-Commerce Data Library, which currently contains data from 35 countries worldwide.

PCMI has created the Global E-Commerce Data Library, which will be further expanded. The library includes e-commerce data from 35 countries across the globe and provides strategic e-commerce insights for professionals in payment systems, online sales, financial services, and other industries. This initiative has been launched as part of PCMI’s global payment market research services.

“Tailored to Meet Professionals’ Needs”

PCMI General Manager Lindsay Lehr stated, “While a vast amount of e-commerce data is available, it is often not specifically tailored to the needs of professionals trying to uncover revenue opportunities for their companies. That’s why we developed the Global E-Commerce Data Library. The library includes both transaction data that reflects real behaviors and historical trends over time.”

Lehr added, “We also conducted interviews with leading e-commerce executives to better understand market dynamics and shape the library in a way that provides the highest value for users.” She further emphasized, “Our team is working intensively to expand the library’s coverage, particularly in regions such as Asia-Pacific and EMEA.”

Global E-Commerce Data Library Focuses on Developed and Emerging Markets

The Global E-Commerce Data Library includes e-commerce data from both developed markets (Australia, Brazil, Hong Kong, Japan) and emerging markets (Bolivia, Indonesia, Kenya, Pakistan, and Vietnam). However, it is not designed as a static data set.

Lehr stated, “Companies purchasing country data have the option to work with our team to customize the data. This allows us to expand the data to address more specific concerns, focusing more deeply on e-commerce segments, purchasing types, or consumer behaviors.”

She continued, “Beyond customization, all customers are entitled to a free one-hour consultation with a PCMI expert after their purchase to review and explain the data set. We added this feature to better understand why customers are purchasing the data and to demonstrate how it can help them achieve their goals. Through customization and consultation, we transform the data from static numbers in a file into insights that align more closely with our customers’ objectives.”

About PCMI

PCMI is a consulting group focused on the global payments industry. With over 30 years of experience, it provides market intelligence to global companies and has completed more than 500 client projects in the payments sector since 1993. PCMI conducts specialized strategic studies covering over 50 global markets across the Americas, EMEA, and APAC regions. These studies include market size analysis, opportunity assessment, go-to-market strategies, customer insights, and more.

Türkiye’s E-Commerce Volume Reaches $78 Billion

Türkiye’s e-commerce sector continues its steady growth, with the total market volume reaching 1.86 trillion Turkish liras ($78 billion) by the end of 2024.

Speaking at the launch event of the “e-Easy Export Platform” (e-KİP)—a digital platform designed to facilitate cross-border e-commerce—Minister of Trade Ömer Bolat shared new insights into Türkiye’s e-commerce expansion.

Bolat emphasized that e-KİP was built using modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, to provide exporters with essential data and insights on international trade. He highlighted that the platform integrates data from nearly 20 global marketplaces, offering businesses market analysis tools to refine their export strategies.

He also noted that e-KİP features dedicated modules covering market and marketplace analysis, e-export, professional solution partners, industry trends, and key events. Additionally, the platform has received international recognition, earning the “Horizon Interactive Awards” for its innovation.

“Türkiye’s E-Commerce Boom Continues”

Minister Bolat pointed out that global e-commerce sales are expected to reach $6 trillion in 2024, with China leading the market, followed by Europe at 20% and the U.S. at 18.7%. He underlined that Türkiye’s e-commerce sector is experiencing rapid and sustained growth, stating:

“In 2023, Türkiye’s e-commerce volume stood at 850 billion liras. By the end of 2024, this figure surged to 1.86 trillion liras ($78 billion)—a remarkable 92% increase over the past four years. Just four years ago, our e-commerce volume was around $40 billion. Additionally, the share of e-commerce in total trade increased from 20.3% in 2023 to over 21% in 2024.”

230 Businesses Benefit from E-Export Incentives

Bolat also emphasized the government’s commitment to boosting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the global digital marketplace. He recalled the launch of the E-Export Consortium Model, designed to support Turkish SMEs in expanding their overseas sales.

“By the end of 2024, a total of 230 beneficiaries have been included in the e-export support program. This includes 213 companies, two major marketplaces, six retail e-commerce platforms, and nine e-export consortia. Additionally, we provide comprehensive guides and resources for exporters looking to enhance their digital trade strategies. Looking ahead, we are also preparing the E-Export Action Plan for the 2026-2028 period to further strengthen Türkiye’s presence in global e-commerce.”

Flipkart Shuts Down ANS Commerce, Lays Off Employees

Indian e-commerce giant Flipkart has officially shut down its subsidiary, ANS Commerce, leading to the layoff of its entire workforce.

Flipkart had acquired ANS Commerce in 2022. While the exact number of affected employees remains undisclosed, the company had a workforce of approximately 600 employees at the end of the 2022 fiscal year.

Flipkart Pledges a Smooth Transition for Employees and Stakeholders

Confirming the development, Flipkart issued a statement: “After a thorough evaluation, ANS Commerce, a full-stack e-commerce enabler acquired by Flipkart in 2022, has decided to cease operations. As we wind down the business, we remain committed to ensuring a seamless transition for all stakeholders, including employees and customers.”

The company further stated: “To minimize the impact on employees during this transition, we plan to offer internal opportunities at Flipkart, provide outplacement services, and offer severance packages.”

About Flipkart

Flipkart is an India-based e-commerce company founded in 2007 by Sachin Bansal and Binny Bansal. Initially launched as an online bookstore, Flipkart gradually expanded into a large marketplace offering products across various categories, including electronics, fashion, home essentials, and more.

In 2018, U.S.-based retail giant Walmart acquired a 77% stake in Flipkart for approximately $16 billion, making it the majority shareholder. This acquisition became one of the largest deals in India’s e-commerce sector.

Flipkart is one of India’s leading e-commerce platforms, competing with major players like Amazon India and Reliance Retail. The company also owns Myntra and PhonePe, among other subsidiary brands.

Ozon Reports Over 500% Revenue Growth in 2024

Russian e-commerce giant Ozon has announced an impressive revenue surge, exceeding 500% growth in 2024. The company’s revenue reached 40.1 billion rubles ($459.34 million), driven by improved monetization of its marketplace operations and the expansion of its fintech services.

Ozon Achieves Record EBITDA of $432.3 Million

Ozon reported a record-breaking adjusted earnings before interest, tax, amortization, and depreciation (EBITDA) of 40 billion rubles ($432.3 million). The company expects its adjusted EBITDA to rise to 70-90 billion rubles in 2025, reflecting confidence in its ongoing growth trajectory. This remarkable financial performance signals profitability, economic recovery, and a stable foundation for further development.

Marketplace Growth and Fintech Expansion Fuel Success

Ozon’s strong financial results underscore its evolving business model. The company has taken significant steps to enhance revenue from third-party sellers by refining commission structures, expanding advertising solutions, and optimizing logistics services.

Additionally, Ozon’s fintech division has played a pivotal role in boosting profitability. The company has significantly broadened its financial services, including consumer lending, payment solutions, and digital wallets, further strengthening its market position.

“Our outstanding 2024 performance reflects the strength of our platform and the effectiveness of our strategic investments,” said Ozon CEO Alexander Shulgin. “We remain committed to delivering innovative solutions for both sellers and consumers, ensuring long-term growth.”

Ozon’s 2025 Ambitions

Global marketplace has set ambitious financial goals for 2025, aiming to elevate its adjusted EBITDA to between 70 and 90 billion rubles. With a rapidly expanding customer base and a strong focus on technological innovation, the company is solidifying its presence in e-commerce and digital payments.

As Russia’s online retail sector continues its upward trajectory, marketplace is well-positioned to capitalize on new opportunities and sustain its growth momentum. The company’s commitment to expansion and innovation places it among the key players shaping the future of global e-commerce.

Alibaba Expands Artificial Intelligence Investments

China-based e-commerce giant Alibaba Group has developed the artificial intelligence (AI) model “Qwen,” which has generated over 100,000 derivative models globally, securing the top spot worldwide. The company is increasing its AI investments with the aim of driving transformative changes in the business landscape.

Recently, Alibaba announced plans to invest more than 380 billion yuan ($53 billion) over the next three years to build cloud and AI hardware infrastructure.

A Dominant AI Force in Asia

Alibaba Group is a key player in the artificial intelligence sector within the Asian market. It stands as Asia’s largest cloud service provider and ranks fourth globally. Alibaba Cloud is working to deeply integrate cloud computing and AI technologies to establish one of the world’s most extensive AI-powered cloud computing networks. By leveraging its globally distributed data centers, the company aims to provide developers with unmatched speed and accessibility.

“Artificial Intelligence Investments Will Surpass the Past Decade’s Expenditures”

Alibaba Group CEO Eddie Wu emphasized the company’s strategic focus, stating, “We will concentrate on our domestic and international e-commerce business, cloud computing technologies, and internet platform products. Artificial intelligence is bringing significant transformations to the industry. Our investment in cloud and AI infrastructure over the next three years will exceed what we have spent in the past decade.”

Wu also projected that “90% of future intelligent outputs (tokens) will be created and processed through cloud networks, as only cloud architecture can efficiently handle such vast computational demands. The next three years may be the most intense and expansive period for cloud infrastructure development in Alibaba’s history. If AI becomes as ubiquitous as electricity in the future, cloud computing networks will function as its power grid.”

Furthermore, Wu added, “We see AI as a once-in-a-generation opportunity for industry transformation. Our ultimate goal is to achieve Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), continually pushing the boundaries of model intelligence.”

Major AI-Focused Recruitment Drive

To support its AI advancements, Alibaba has announced hundreds of new job openings, with 90% of these positions dedicated to AI technology and product development. The newly recruited professionals will work on cutting-edge technologies such as text processing, multimodal large models, and AI agents.

What is the Qwen Model?

Qwen is a foundational artificial intelligence model developed by Alibaba Group. It belongs to the category of Large Language Models (LLM) and is designed under the Alibaba Cloud framework.

Key Features and Applications of Qwen

Comprehensive AI Model: Qwen is a sophisticated AI model with applications in natural language processing (NLP), text generation, translation, coding, and content creation.
Scalability: The model processes vast amounts of data, delivering highly accurate and intelligent responses.
Global Leadership: According to Alibaba, Qwen has facilitated the development of over 100,000 derivative models and has achieved the top position globally in AI model rankings.
Alibaba Cloud Integration: The model is seamlessly integrated into Alibaba’s cloud computing ecosystem, providing a robust AI infrastructure for large-scale enterprises and developers.
E-Commerce and Business Applications: Alibaba is incorporating Qwen into its e-commerce platform Taobao to enhance customer experiences, optimize purchase decisions, and improve user engagement.

With its ambitious AI strategy and substantial investments, Alibaba aims to redefine the future of artificial intelligence and cloud computing on a global scale.

UAE’s First E-Commerce Market Map Launched

UAE-based WEE Marketplace, in collaboration with the analytics firm Data Insight, has introduced the first e-commerce market map for the MENA region. Designed for sellers, analysts, and all e-commerce professionals, this project provides valuable insights into the UAE’s digital marketplace. The interactive map is freely accessible via a link, requiring no registration or additional steps.

The newly launched tool by WEE and Data Insight organizes key platform data, offering a structured overview of the UAE’s e-commerce ecosystem. It serves as a strategic resource for businesses operating in or looking to expand within the rapidly growing MENA market. The map will be updated twice a year, in spring and autumn, with the next update scheduled for September 2025.

“MENA is Emerging as a Key Global E-Commerce Player”

Commenting on the initiative, Anton Sizemin, Commercial Director at WEE, stated: “At WEE, we are committed to fostering the UAE’s e-commerce market by providing analytical insights and industry expertise. This map is part of our educational initiative, ‘Seller Academy,’ and also serves as an independent tool for market analysis and strategic planning. MENA is rapidly becoming a key player in global e-commerce, and we are proud to offer a resource that helps businesses navigate this evolving landscape more effectively.”

For inquiries, including requests to add a company or project to the map, users can contact [email protected].

About WEE and Data Insight

WEE is a UAE-based online marketplace, offering fast and reliable delivery across multiple categories, including beauty products, groceries, electronics, home essentials, pet supplies, fashion, and accessories. The company actively supports market growth by developing analytical and educational projects aimed at empowering businesses.

Data Insight is Russia’s first research agency specializing in ecommerce. The firm provides a wide range of services, including sales analysis, market research, consulting, and e-commerce optimization, helping businesses maximize their potential in the digital economy.

Europe Hosts Headquarters of 95 Out of the World’s 250 Largest E-commerce Companies!

Europe is home to the headquarters of 38% of the world’s leading e-commerce giants. Among the 250 largest e-commerce companies globally, 95 have their headquarters in Europe—a figure that surpasses the total number in the Americas and significantly exceeds that of Asia. Within Europe, Germany leads the way as the country with the highest number of e-commerce headquarters.

A recent analysis by ECDB (EcommerceDB), a renowned e-commerce data and analytics publisher, has mapped the headquarters of the world’s largest e-commerce platforms. The study sheds light on the geographical distribution of e-commerce power across continents.

Europe Emerges as a Hub for E-commerce Headquarters

According to ECDB, 95 of the world’s top 250 e-commerce companies are headquartered in Europe, representing 38% of the total. The Americas follow closely behind with 92 headquarters (37%), while Asia accounts for 57 (23%). Australia and Oceania collectively host six headquarters, whereas Africa has none.

Germany Leads the Rankings

Germany ranks as the leading country in Europe, with 22 major e-commerce headquarters, including Otto, Zalando, and About You.
France and the United Kingdom follow, each hosting 17 headquarters.
Russia, which is also considered part of Europe in this analysis, has eight headquarters, while the Netherlands and Switzerland each host five.
On a global scale, the United States dominates with 80 e-commerce headquarters, accounting for nearly one-third of the world’s top 250.
China, despite its massive e-commerce market, has only 17 headquarters, the same number as France and the UK. Unlike the U.S. and Europe, China’s e-commerce industry is highly concentrated among a few dominant players.

The Role of Headquarters in E-commerce Success

According to ECDB, a company’s location plays a crucial role in its success, as infrastructure, accessibility, and resource availability significantly impact operations. However, the report also points out that while headquarters locations indicate regional hotspots, they do not necessarily reflect market dominance.

Interestingly, no European company ranks among the world’s top 10 e-commerce giants. The list is led by Alibaba Group, followed by Amazon. Among the top 10 global e-commerce firms, six are based in Asia and four in the United States. The first European company to appear in the rankings is Otto Group, positioned at number 19.

Amazon Dominates European E-commerce Markets

Amazon’s influence highlights the disparity in e-commerce market power. Although many leading e-commerce companies have their headquarters in Europe, Amazon continues to dominate the continent’s largest e-commerce markets, just as it does in the U.S.

Additionally, a recent RetailX study found that among Europe’s 1,000 largest online retailers, only 49% are actually headquartered within the continent.

China’s E-Commerce Market Leads Globally for 12 Consecutive Years

China’s e-commerce retail market recorded a 7.2% growth in 2024, reinforcing its global leadership in the sector. For the 12th consecutive year, the country retained its title as the world’s largest e-commerce market.

At the National E-Commerce Conference held in Beijing, officials reviewed China’s e-commerce performance in 2024, analyzed development trends, and outlined key priorities for 2025. According to the Ministry of Commerce, China’s online retail sales reached 15.5 trillion yuan (approximately $2.16 trillion) in 2024. These figures confirm China’s position as the world’s largest online retail market for the 12th consecutive year.

Ministry of Commerce to Strengthen Supportive Policies

Speaking at a press conference, Vice Minister of Commerce Sheng Qiuping highlighted that the wholesale and retail sectors contributed 13.8 trillion yuan to the economy in 2024, accounting for 10.2% of China’s GDP. He emphasized that the sector played a crucial role in ensuring smooth market circulation, generating employment, and reducing logistics costs.

“The Ministry of Commerce will work closely with relevant departments to enhance supportive policies, implement targeted measures, and accelerate the high-quality development of the wholesale and retail industries,” Sheng stated. “These efforts aim to further streamline national economic circulation and drive sustainable growth,” he added.

China’s E-Commerce Sector Achieves Major Milestones

The conference also highlighted China’s achievements in digital transformation and the integration of e-commerce across multiple industries. Key topics included industrial e-commerce integration, Silk Road e-commerce cooperation, and strategic action plans for digital trade.

The Ministry of Commerce called for efforts to expand digital consumption, support industrial transformation, and foster high-quality international e-commerce cooperation. Additionally, it stressed the importance of strengthening digital governance and contributing to the long-term, high-quality development of the economy.

With steady policy-driven progress, China’s wholesale and retail industries have played a pivotal role in boosting domestic demand and shaping a new development paradigm.

China’s E-Commerce Market Leads Globally for 12 Consecutive Years

Rising Demand for a Seamless E-Commerce Experience

DHL eCommerce enters Saudi Arabian market

Logistics is a key growth pillar of Saudi Arabia‘s Vision 2030, with rapid expansion anticipated. DHL eCommerce and AJEX partner to capitalize on the anticipated double-digit growth rate in Saudi Arabia’s parcel market.

DHL eCommerce, the e-commerce logistics specialist of DHL Group, and AJEX Logistics Services, have entered into an agreement in which DHL will acquire a minority stake in the Saudi Arabian parcel logistics company.

For DHL eCommerce, whose core business is domestic parcel transport in selected European countries, the United States, and certain key Asian countries, this agreement represents an expansion into the rapidly growing Saudi Arabian e-commerce parcel market. Although AJEX only began its operations in 2021, it has already established itself as a leading parcel service provider in the rapidly evolving domestic market, with robust growth and an extensive distribution network.

The agreement was signed during a ceremony attended by Pablo Ciano, CEO of DHL eCommerce, Yin Zou, Executive Vice President Corporate Development at DHL Group, Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz Al Ajlan, Deputy Chairman of Ajlan & Bros Holding, and Ajlan Bin Mohammed Al Ajlan, Group Managing Director of Ajlan & Bros Holding.

“As a key component of our corporate Strategy 2030 ‘Accelerate Sustainable Growth’ we are focusing on markets like Saudi Arabia that exhibit significant growth dynamics and strong economic development. We are confident that AJEX, with its commitment to quality and strong customer focus, supported by a highly motivated team and backed by Ajlan & Bros Holding, is the perfect partner to help us expand our e-commerce-focused parcel business into this booming market. Together, leveraging our international expertise in parcel operations, we will deliver reliable, affordable, and sustainable delivery solutions,” states Pablo Ciano, CEO of DHL eCommerce.

“We will be in a strong position with DHL eCommerce”

“Saudi Arabia is dedicated to fostering economic growth and diversifying its industries under Vision 2030 with logistics serving as one of the key pillars. In this context, we are also witnessing strong growth in e-commerce, which in turn is driving expansion in the domestic parcel sector. The demand for a parcel service provider with local expertise and a global network is steadily rising. By partnering with DHL eCommerce, a globally trusted e-commerce specialist, we will be well-positioned to meet this demand in the future,” states Ajlan Bin Mohammed Al Ajlan, Group Managing Director of Ajlan & Bros Holding.

With 1,500 team members, AJEX provides domestic parcel processing and delivery through an extensive network that includes over 50 facilities and a fleet of more than 900 vehicles. Moving forward, AJEX will continue to lead the business in partnership with DHL eCommerce, which will not only contribute its expertise in the international parcel sector but also have representation on the management board. Additionally, DHL eCommerce has secured the option to increase its interest to a majority stake.

With DHL eCommerce, all four international divisions of DHL Group will be represented and actively engaged in the market. DHL first established its presence in Saudi Arabia in the 1970s with its DHL Express business unit. The other divisions have also been operating in the country for several years, providing specialized services such as contract logistics and freight forwarding solutions.

The deal and the outlined partnership are contingent upon regulatory approvals. The transaction will only be implemented after obtaining clearance under the relevant merger control legal requirements.

About DHL

DHL is the leading global brand in the logistics industry. Our DHL divisions offer an unrivalled portfolio of logistics services ranging from national and international parcel delivery, e-commerce shipping and fulfillment solutions, international express, road, air and ocean transport to industrial supply chain management. With about 395,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, DHL connects people and businesses securely and reliably, enabling global sustainable trade flows.

With specialized solutions for growth markets and industries including technology, life sciences and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing & energy, auto-mobility and retail, DHL is decisively positioned as “The logistics company for the world”.

DHL is part of DHL Group. The Group generated revenues of more than 81.8 billion euros in 2023. With sustainable business practices and a commitment to society and the environment, the Group makes a positive contribution to the world. DHL Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions logistics by 2050.

About AJEX

AJEX Logistics Services is the GCC logistics & transportation expert, operating in the region since 2021. Inspired by Saudi Vision 2030, AJEX strives to become the premier provider of cutting-edge logistics solutions, bridging the Middle East with the global stage.

Specializing in Middle East E-commerce distribution and industrial solutions, AJEX is established in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, US, UK, Turkey, South Africa, and China. The company’s extensive network comprises over 50 facilities, 900 vehicles, and a dedicated team of 1,500 professionals.

AJEX offers a comprehensive range of customer-centric solutions tailored to meet our customers’ needs. From express distribution, e-commerce services, and road freight to ocean and airfreight, AJEX offerings extend to warehousing, cold chain logistics, and healthcare solutions.

AJEX Logistics Services is backed by Ajlan & Bros Holding, a leading private investment conglomerate in Saudi Arabia, employing over 20,000 people in more than 25 countries and across 75 companies.

About Ajlan & Bros Holding

Ajlan & Bros Holding is one of the leading business conglomerates in the MENA region, which is shaping the economic landscape while enhancing the quality of life of its citizens. The group serves diverse industries, such as water, energy, facilities management, logistics, industrial manufacturing, real estate, textiles, technology, mining and minerals, FMCG, events and entertainment, gaming, and financial services. This places Ajlan & Bros Holding as one of the key players in MENA’s economic and social development.

Ajlan & Bros Holding has a significant presence in over 25 countries and 75 companies, with more than 20,000 staff contributing to the Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030.

Through strategic investments and innovative projects, the Holding drives growth and aligns with Vision 2030’s broader goals. Ajlan & Bros Holding has collaborated with major government entities and private partners to drive economic diversification, boost local manufacturing, and improve infrastructure.

Through its diverse portfolio of strategic investments and groundbreaking projects, the company is contributing to the nation’s economic transformation, social development, and environmental sustainability. With its clear vision and commitment to excellence, Ajlan & Bros Holding is paving the way for a prosperous future for the MENA region.

Alibaba Boosts Revenue with AI-Powered Growth

The Hangzhou-based company reported an 8% year-on-year increase in revenue for the quarter ending in December, reaching 280.2 billion yuan (approximately $38.38 billion). Net income also surged to 48.9 billion yuan (around $6.71 billion). Following the announcement, Alibaba’s shares listed on the New York Stock Exchange jumped by over 12%.

CEO Wu: AGI Is Alibaba’s Top Priority

CEO Eddie Wu revealed that Alibaba plans to make “aggressive investments” in artificial intelligence and cloud infrastructure over the next three years. Wu emphasized that these investments will exceed the total spending of the past decade.

“These quarterly results reflect significant progress in our ‘user-first, AI-driven’ strategy and signal a renewed acceleration in the growth of our core businesses,” Wu stated.

Wu also highlighted the company’s focus on developing Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)—AI systems capable of matching or surpassing human intelligence and capable of self-learning. He described this transformation as a “once-in-decades” opportunity and declared AGI to be Alibaba’s primary strategic goal.

Competing in the AI Race

Alibaba is fiercely competing with other major Chinese tech companies to lead the country’s AI sector. The company’s latest Qwen AI models, launched in January, performed exceptionally well in benchmark tests, positioning Alibaba as a front-runner in China’s AI landscape.

Earlier this month, Alibaba also announced a partnership with Apple to integrate its AI technology into iPhones sold in China, a move expected to boost its influence in the consumer electronics sector.

AI Integration Drives Cloud and Global Growth

Beyond its e-commerce platform, Alibaba has successfully integrated AI into its cloud computing products. The company’s cloud unit posted a 13% revenue increase compared to the same period last year, marking its fastest growth in two years.

Meanwhile, Alibaba’s international commerce division—which includes platforms like AliExpress and Lazada—saw a remarkable 32% rise in revenue, driven by strong performance in cross-border trade.

What’s Next for Alibaba?

With its sharpened focus on AI innovation and expanding international presence, Alibaba is positioning itself to remain competitive in both local and global markets. The company’s bold investments in AI and cloud technology could reshape the future of China’s digital economy and solidify Alibaba’s role as a global tech leader.