Why is trust becoming the hardest currency in corporate venture capital? CVCs now differentiate not by cheque size, but by the strategic insight, commercial access and risk expertise they bring to early-stage companies. New data from the State of CVC 2025 report sets out what CVCs and founders must do to build perception, credibility and growth.

The Reuters Institute’s new report, Mapping News Creators and Influencers in Social and Video Networks, shows how online creators now shape public opinion. Governments and companies must adapt their reputation strategies to navigate this fast-moving media landscape.

A new study reveals a staggering 38-point gap between CEO concern and crisis preparedness. The root cause? Boards built for a financial era are failing in an age of compounding crises. This isn't just a communication problem, it's a direct threat to profit and valuation. This article exposes why traditional board composition is the core vulnerability and provides a clear blueprint for modernization, including the critical case for appointing a Chief Reputation Officer to safeguard your company's future.

What soft power is, how countries use it to shape diplomacy, trade and investment, and why it still matters in a more contested, multipolar world. The Foreign Policy Centre has just released its latest report outlining a way forward for the UK Government to develop soft power.

Europe’s deep-tech ambitions depend on more than just research and capital, they hinge on trust, strategic collaboration, and clear communication. The European Innovation Council’s latest Corporate Startup Collaboration report shows how the EU is working to unlock growth through corporate venture capital (CVC). But to truly compete with the U.S. and Asia, Europe must go further: aligning incentives, strengthening positioning, and using strategic communications to build confidence and scale impact.

Venture capital is evolving rapidly, with AI, fintech, and climate tech dominating investment flows. According to CB Insights’ State of Venture 2024 report, global VC funding has hit an eight-year low, but key sectors and regions are still thriving. While the US, UK, and parts of Asia attract strong investment, China, Canada, and Germany face declines. As governments refine policies and start-ups adapt to investor demands, 2025 presents both challenges and opportunities for venture-backed innovation.

Battenhall released its 2025 ‘The Year Ahead In Social’ report, which highlighted the rise in ‘dark social’ as a channel that people continue to move towards in a hyper-polarised environment. People want relevance and authenticity from brands that engage with them. Going siloed is becoming a trend.

Insight from my conversation with Reuters Institute Digital News Report 2020 Lead Author Nic Newman. We discuss the impact of digital and social on the media industry and how COVID is accelerating the pace of digital transformation. We also talk about misinformation and the impact on trust and reputation.