UBS is experimenting with AI by creating digital avatars of about three dozen equity analysts, aiming to boost productivity and cater to clients who may prefer not appearing on camera. These lifelike avatars present research notes with human-like gestures, though the technology still feels somewhat uncanny. While AI use in banking isn't new—Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs already employ it internally—the external deployment marks a shift. Despite advancements, "human-in-the-loop" oversight remains crucial due to regulatory risks. As AI evolves, it could handle tasks beyond repetitive work, such as real-time price updates or questioning CEOs during earnings calls. However, cost-saving implications loom as avatars might reduce reliance on human analysts in sell-side research.

Tribal loans offer a viable option for individuals with bad credit seeking quick financial solutions. Operating under Native American tribal sovereignty, these loans bypass state regulations, providing flexible terms and faster approval processes. Platforms like Low Credit Finance connect borrowers to tribal lenders, offering loans ranging from $500 to $10,000 with minimal requirements, often without credit checks. Tribal payday loans cater to short-term needs, while installment loans provide structured repayments over extended periods. Although convenient, tribal loans come with high interest rates and limited consumer protections, emphasizing the need for responsible borrowing. This guide explores the benefits, risks, and application process of tribal loans, helping borrowers make informed decisions.

CFOs face significant challenges due to market volatility, technological advancements like AI, and global uncertainties such as tariffs. During a recent virtual roundtable, CFO Rudy Gonzalez from Magnit and VP of Finance Jimmy Du from Made in Cookware emphasized the importance of scenario planning to navigate these complexities. Both stressed optimizing resources, managing debt, and anticipating customer churn. Made in Cookware is mitigating tariff impacts by collaborating with manufacturers and scrutinizing expenses, while reinvesting savings into marketing for growth. The companies are exploring AI cautiously, balancing efficiency gains with integration and oversight costs. Additionally, they highlighted remote work and career development as strategies to attract top talent, expanding access to global candidates. Amid economic pressures, both firms prioritize cash management and strategic investments for sustainable growth.

This article collection highlights key aspects of private equity (PE) and dealmaking strategies. The first piece explores how AI agents are set to influence the PE landscape, potentially transforming investment processes. The second article from PE Weekly discusses dealmakers' increasing focus on infrastructure and industrial sectors as promising investment spaces. Finally, a Q&A session with Sean Ward of Blue Point provides insights into the nuances of crafting successful deals. Together, these articles offer a comprehensive view of current trends, technological influences, and expert perspectives in the PE industry.

Horizon Technology Finance Corp. announces a leadership transition with Michael P. Balkin becoming CEO on June 5, 2025. Balkin, an independent director since 2023, succeeds Robert D. Pomeroy Jr., who will retire but stay on as board chairman. President Gerald A. Michaud will also retire by year-end. With extensive experience in investment and portfolio management, Balkin aims to continue Horizon’s growth and diversification strategy while focusing on generating income from debt investments and capital appreciation. Horizon specializes in secured loans to technology, life sciences, healthcare, and sustainability sectors, managed externally by Horizon Technology Finance Management LLC, an affiliate of Monroe Capital.

In the current stock market, Michael emphasizes the potential of small-cap stocks, which have been significantly impacted this year but now offer attractive discounted valuations. He anticipates that small caps could outperform large caps in 2025 and beyond, especially if trade tensions ease. Michael also discusses how rate cuts could benefit small caps due to their higher proportion of floating-rate debt, potentially enhancing profitability. Regarding the Federal Reserve's recent decision to maintain rates, Michael supports a "wait and see" approach given the labor market's stability and inflation trends, though tariffs remain an inflationary concern. The base case scenario involves two to three rate cuts later in the year, contingent on economic conditions.