Prof. Ahmad J. Naous: Empowering Entrepreneurs and Driving Global Change through Stratexology

The story of Professor Ahmad J. Naous is one of resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of empowering entrepreneurs globally. Rooted in a deep understanding of the challenges faced by budding businesses, his transformative journey in stratexology has left an indelible mark on the entrepreneurial landscape, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams and create a positive impact in their communities.

A Vision Driven by Personal Experience

Professor Ahmad J. Naous passion for stratexology stems from his firsthand experience of the hurdles faced by entrepreneurs in developing countries. Growing up in Lebanon during a period of unrest, he witnessed the transformative power of entrepreneurship in rebuilding communities and creating opportunities. This personal insight forms the cornerstone of his unwavering commitment to guiding aspiring entrepreneurs on their path to success.

A Personalized Approach to Empowerment

hat sets Professor Ahmad J. Naous apart is his empathetic and personalized approach to nurturing startups. Taking the time to understand the unique aspirations and challenges of each entrepreneur, he provides tailored guidance that goes beyond the conventional business strategies. His hands-on involvement and unwavering support have been instrumental in cultivating a culture of resilience and innovation among the startups he has mentored.

Transformative Impact on Global Entrepreneurship

Professor Naous’s impact on the global entrepreneurial ecosystem is evident through the success stories of the startups he has nurtured. From assisting overwhelmed entrepreneurs in devising comprehensive business launch plans to enabling others to secure critical funding through effective pitch refinement and investor connections, his guidance has paved the way for numerous ventures to thrive and expand their horizons.

Establishing a Global Network for Entrepreneurial Growth

Recognizing the importance of fostering a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs, Professor Naous founded the Startexology Institute. Through this platform, he has provided aspiring business leaders with the necessary tools, resources, and mentorship to navigate the complexities of the entrepreneurial journey. His efforts in establishing a global network of support have empowered

countless individuals to realize their business aspirations and contribute positively to the global business landscape.

Championing Global Change and Social Impact

Beyond his contributions to stratexology, Professor Ahmad J. Naous is a vocal advocate for global change and social impact. His involvement in humanitarian causes, refugee advocacy, and global peace initiatives exemplifies his dedication to creating a more equitable and just world. As a recipient of prestigious awards and ambassadorships, including the Leadership Gold Award and the role of Global Education Influencer, he continues to inspire and lead the charge for transformative change on a global scale.

Paving the Way for the Future of Stratexology

Professor Ahmad J. Naous enduring legacy lies in his relentless pursuit of fostering the next generation of socially responsible entrepreneurs. Through his mentorship, research, and advocacy, he continues to champion the values of innovation, sustainability, and inclusive business practices, emphasizing the transformative potential of stratexology in creating a more equitable and prosperous world. His remarkable journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for entrepreneurs worldwide, showcasing the transformative power of entrepreneurship in driving global change.

Fostering a Culture of Innovation and Collaboration

Professor Ahmad J. Naous commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration is evident in his tireless efforts to promote the importance of shared value and sustainable practices in business. Through his thought leadership and advocacy, he has inspired entrepreneurs to embrace innovative solutions that not only drive business growth but also have a positive impact on society and the environment. His emphasis on fostering a collaborative ecosystem has encouraged entrepreneurs to work together towards a common goal of creating a more sustainable and inclusive business landscape.

A Journey of Recognition and Impactful Contributions

Professor Naous’s contributions to the field of stratexology have not gone unnoticed. His work has been recognized through various accolades, including the International Books for Peace Award and his election as one of the 100 Admired People in Education in 2021. As a contributing editor to Strategy+Business and a member of prestigious organizations such as the American Society for Training and Development and the International

Association for Strategy Professionals, his insights and expertise continue to shape the discourse on entrepreneurship and business strategy globally.

Envisioning a Bright Future for Entrepreneurship

Looking ahead, Professor Naous remains steadfast in his dedication to nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurial leaders. Through his continuous efforts to promote sustainable business practices, mentor emerging entrepreneurs, and advocate for global peace and social impact, he envisions a future where entrepreneurship is synonymous with sustainable and inclusive growth. His vision for a global business landscape that prioritizes shared value and positive impact continues to inspire entrepreneurs to build businesses that not only drive financial success but also contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.

A Lasting Legacy of Empowerment and Resilience

Professor Ahmad J. Naous’s legacy is one of empowerment, resilience, and unwavering dedication to fostering a culture of shared value and positive impact through stratexology. His remarkable journey, shaped by personal experiences and a deep-rooted commitment to making a difference, serves as a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship in driving global change. As he continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of entrepreneurs, his legacy will endure as a beacon of hope for those seeking to make a meaningful and lasting impact in the world of business and beyond.

Professor Ahmad J. Naous’s remarkable journey in the realm of stratexology is a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship and the profound impact it can have on individuals and communities worldwide. From his early experiences in Lebanon to his global recognition as a thought leader, he has remained steadfast in his commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and fostering a culture of shared value and positive impact.

His personalized approach to mentorship, advocacy for global change, and establishment of the Startexology Institute have paved the way for countless entrepreneurs to realize their dreams and contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive global business landscape. His vision for a future where entrepreneurship is synonymous with social responsibility and innovation continues to inspire the next generation of business leaders to create a lasting and meaningful impact on the world.

As a beacon of hope and resilience, Professor Naous’s legacy will endure as a guiding light for aspiring entrepreneurs, reminding them that with dedication, empathy, and a personal touch, they too can contribute to building a better and more equitable world through the power of entrepreneurship and stratexology.

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Cruise CEO Kyle Vogt Resigns Amidst Challenges for GM-Owned Robotaxi Unit

San Francisco, November 20, 2023 — Kyle Vogt, co-founder and CEO of Cruise, the autonomous vehicle venture owned by General Motors (GM), has resigned from his position, the company announced in a statement to CNBC on Sunday. The departure follows a series of setbacks for Cruise, including a voluntary recall of 950 robotaxis and a suspension of vehicle operations on public roads.

Mo Elshenawy, former executive vice president of engineering at Cruise, has been appointed as the new president and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for the company. Vogt, in a social media post on X (formerly Twitter), confirmed his resignation without providing a specific reason. He expressed his intention to spend time with his family and explore new ideas while expressing confidence in Cruise’s future.

Vogt’s resignation follows a challenging period for Cruise, marked by a series of incidents that led to a voluntary recall and the suspension of operations on public roads. One particularly serious incident involved a pedestrian being struck by another vehicle, subsequently hit by a Cruise self-driving car.

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) suspended Cruise’s deployment and testing permits, accusing the company of not providing a transparent account of the pedestrian collision. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is also investigating Cruise to assess the appropriateness of its automated driving systems around pedestrians.

General Motors acquired Cruise in 2016 and had high expectations for the autonomous vehicle startup. Recent financial reports indicate losses of approximately $1.9 billion on Cruise between January and September 2023, with $732 million in the third quarter alone.

Mary Barra, GM’s CEO and Chair, expressed hope that Cruise would play a significant role in doubling the company’s revenue by 2030. However, challenges in building a driverless transportation network have led to increased scrutiny and executive changes.

Former Tesla and Lyft executive Jon McNeill, a member of GM’s board of directors, has been appointed vice chairman of Cruise’s board following Vogt’s resignation. Transportation consultant Alex Roy emphasized the need for Cruise to rebuild trust with staff, regulators, and the public, stating, “Responsibility starts at the top. If Cruise is going to survive, the CEO had to go.”

Vogt’s resignation comes approximately two years after his reappointment as CEO, filling the void left by the unexpected departure of Dan Ammann in December 2021. Ammann, credited with Cruise’s 2016 acquisition, was succeeded by Vogt in 2021 after leading the company since 2019.

As Cruise faces challenges, the industry and investors will be closely watching for developments under the leadership of Mo Elshenawy and the newly appointed board members.

Mastercard Strengthens Crypto Fraud Detection with Feedzai AI Partnership

In a bid to fortify its defenses against fraud within the cryptocurrency realm, Mastercard has announced an exclusive partnership with Feedzai, a regulatory technology platform specializing in combating online money laundering and financial scams using artificial intelligence (AI). The collaboration aims to leverage AI capabilities to enhance fraud detection and protect consumers from illicit activities on cryptocurrency exchanges.

Feedzai will directly integrate with Mastercard’s CipherTrace Armada platform, designed to enable banks to monitor transactions across more than 6,000 crypto exchanges for signs of fraud, money laundering, and other suspicious activities. This integration differs from a traditional API-based approach, with Feedzai seamlessly incorporating CipherTrace Armada into its technology to provide real-time alerts about potentially fraudulent cryptocurrency transactions.

Nuno Sebastio, CEO and co-founder of Feedzai, highlighted the broader impact of the partnership, stating, “This will increase fraud detection by protecting unwary consumers, but will also detect potential money laundering activity and mule accounts.” Mule accounts refer to user accounts exploited by fraudsters for laundering illicitly obtained funds.

According to Feedzai data, approximately 40% of scam transactions currently flow directly from bank accounts to cryptocurrency exchanges. The collaboration aims to address this issue by utilizing Feedzai’s advanced AI capabilities, capable of identifying and blocking suspicious transactions within nanoseconds while still recognizing legitimate transactions.

The partnership provides Mastercard with access to Feedzai’s AI expertise, adding a layer of intelligence to its fraud detection capabilities. Feedzai’s RiskOps platform, analyzing transactions totaling over $1.7 trillion annually, stands as a significant asset in the fight against financial crime.

This strategic move by Mastercard signals a commitment to legitimizing cryptocurrency as a mainstream financial asset, subject to the same rules and compliance frameworks as traditional assets. As banks and financial institutions increasingly explore crypto integration, the collaboration with Feedzai positions Mastercard at the forefront of ensuring security and compliance within the evolving financial landscape.

The initiative comes in the wake of a global surge in crypto-related losses, with a 79% increase reported in 2022 compared to the previous year, according to data from blockchain analysis firm Chainalysis. Illicit addresses received a staggering $14 billion in 2022, nearly double the amount recorded in 2020.

Ajay Bhalla, President of Cyber and Intelligence Solutions for Mastercard, emphasized the rising risks associated with the digitalization of finance. Bhalla revealed, “Our latest data shows fraud on transactions where people are buying crypto is 5 times higher than regular fiat transactions.” The partnership with Feedzai aligns with Mastercard’s broader strategy, building on its 2021 acquisition of CipherTrace and the subsequent launch of CryptoSecure in 2022 to analyze and block transactions from high-risk crypto exchanges.

As Mastercard takes proactive steps to secure its vast global network used by banking institutions, the partnership with Feedzai underscores a commitment to making cryptocurrency a safer and more regulated space, bridging the gap between traditional financial systems and emerging digital assets.

OpenAI Appoints Former Twitch CEO Emmett Shear as New Leader Following Abrupt Ousting of Sam Altman

In a surprising turn of events, OpenAI, one of the leading artificial intelligence companies, has announced the appointment of former Twitch CEO Emmett Shear as its new leader. This move comes just two days after the unexpected removal of Sam Altman, who had been at the helm since 2019.

The decision to bring in Shear follows a tumultuous weekend for OpenAI, marked by the sudden removal of Altman, as revealed in a statement from the board on Friday. The statement cited Altman’s lack of consistent candor in communications with the board as the reason for his departure. The interim replacement for Altman is Mira Murati, OpenAI’s technology chief.

Both The Information and Bloomberg reported on Shear’s hiring before it was officially confirmed by CNBC through a confidential source. Despite requests for comment, an OpenAI spokesperson has not responded as of now.

Following the board’s announcement, a group of notable investors, including Microsoft, Tiger Global, Thrive Capital, and Sequoia Capital, initiated efforts to reverse the decision. Notably, these firms, although influential, do not hold board seats and were reportedly caught off guard by Altman’s removal.

Sam Altman, in a post on the platform X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday night, expressed his affection for the OpenAI team, stating, “i love the openai team so much.” This sentiment was reciprocated by Mira Murati and other OpenAI employees, indicating a supportive internal atmosphere despite the recent changes.

OpenAI gained widespread recognition this year with the release of ChatGPT, a chatbot that allows users to engage in conversations by inputting simple text queries. The company was reportedly in talks last month to sell employee shares at an impressive $86 billion valuation.

Notably, OpenAI diverges from the typical Silicon Valley startup structure, as it operates as a nonprofit founded in 2015. The board oversees the nonprofit, playing a crucial role in governing all OpenAI activities, as emphasized in Friday’s blog post.

Emmett Shear, the incoming leader, stepped down as the CEO of Twitch in March, a livestreaming service now under the ownership of Amazon. Shear, a co-founder of Justin.tv, a precursor to Twitch, has also been involved as a part-time partner at Y Combinator, a startup accelerator previously led by Sam Altman before his tenure at OpenAI.