1. The effectiveness of generative AI services depends on the quality of data and the supporting platform. 2. Techniques like retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) and vector databases are crucial for enhancing AI performance. 3. Synthetic data and data lakehouses are emerging as key components for AI development and management.

1. Hazelcast is integrating vector search into its Hazelcast Platform, enhancing its capabilities for enterprise AI applications. 2. The new version, v5.5, can generate vector data structures and embeddings from text plot summaries, offering high-performance end-to-end data querying. 3. Hazelcast claims significant performance advantages in vector embeddings and retrievals, with single-digit millisecond latency in benchmark tests.

1. Lightbits Labs' storage technology enables Nebul to offer AI services with 16x better performance at lower costs. 2. VAST Data Platform certified for high-performance storage in Nvidia Partner Network. 3. Datadobi appoints Denise Natali as VP of Americas sales. 4. NetApp introduces new capabilities for strategic cloud workloads including GenAI and VMware. 5. Research from Enterprise Strategy Group and Hitachi Vantara highlights challenges in GenAI projects. 6. Volumez raises $40 million to expand cloud services for AI and machine learning workloads. 7. Chorology emerges from stealth with AI-powered data governance solutions. 8. Alluxio launches Enterprise AI Version 3.2 with improved GPU utilization and I/O performance.

➀ VVDN Technologies has integrated Google's advanced generative AI models into its operations; ➁ The integration aims to stimulate innovation and transformation for clients; ➂ New industry solutions include log analytics, device management, and smart virtual assistants.

➀ Global smartphone shipments are expected to grow by 5% in 2024, reversing two years of decline. ➁ The share of GenAI-capable smartphones is projected to increase significantly by 2028. ➂ Chinese OEMs and Apple's anticipated entry into foldables are set to drive growth in the foldable smartphone market.

➀ IDC forecasts a 5.8% year-over-year growth in 2024 smartphone shipments, reaching 1.23 billion units. ➁ GenAI smartphones are expected to capture 18% of the market by the end of 2024, with a 344% growth. ➂ The average selling price for GenAI smartphones will be more than double that of non-GenAI capable devices.

1. IBM's Software and GenAI segments are driving high-single digit revenue growth and expanding margins by 100 bp. 2. Free cash flow has been growing healthily since 2020, expected to increase by 7% in 2024. 3. Valuation indicates potential upside as IBM's free cash growth is currently discounted.

➀ GenAI has reached the Peak of Inflated Expectations in the Gartner Hype Cycle for Finance AI. ➁ Publicly available GenAI tools have generated significant publicity over the past two years. ➂ Finance functions adopting this technology may find it less transformative than anticipated, according to Gartner's Mark MaDonald.