automation

Agentic AI promises to unlock generative AI’s potential, addressing the current disconnect between adoption and bottom-line impact. AI agent orchestration is emerging as crucial, with platforms like BMC’s Control-M evolving to manage autonomous agent deployments across diverse systems. BMC envisions Control-M as an “orchestrator of orchestrators,” connecting various tools and facilitating AI agent coordination. As companies like Salesforce develop “digital labor platforms,” demand for robust orchestration layers is growing. Effective orchestration is vital for operationalizing AI, mitigating risks, and ensuring compliance, thereby maximizing business outcomes and ROI.

An ISG report reveals a dynamic shift in French cybersecurity due to rising AI threats and stricter regulations. French enterprises are increasing security budgets and seeking expert guidance for modern security challenges, moving towards comprehensive, integrated solutions like SASE. Driven by compliance burdens from EU regulations like NIS2 and the AI Act affecting over 15,000 French firms, companies are adopting AI-driven threat detection and automation via managed services to address skill shortages and proactively defend against increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks.

Humanoid robots, driven by AI and robotics advancements, are generating excitement, with some suggesting a “ChatGPT moment” is imminent. Companies like Tesla and emerging Chinese startups are developing robots for manufacturing, logistics, and other sectors. While experts anticipate significant global economic impact, widespread adoption faces technological, manufacturing, and regulatory hurdles. Ethical considerations and clear operational guidelines are also critical. Analysts predict increasing robot shipments, but a gradual integration into various sectors is expected.

Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff revealed that the company has reduced its customer support staff by approximately 4,000 positions due to the increased efficiencies of AI, specifically its “Agentforce” suite. Benioff stated AI now handles a significant workload. While Salesforce cites increased efficiency, analysts like Ed Zitron suggest AI is being used as a scapegoat for past over-hiring, prioritizing growth over employee well-being. HR consultant Laurie Ruettimann urges workers to acquire new skills in response to AI’s widespread impact.

Agentic AI, software that autonomously decides, acts, and refines strategy, is poised to disrupt industries. Capgemini projects $450 billion in potential economic value by 2028, yet only 2% of organizations have scaled its use. A survey of 1,500 executives highlights the importance of human oversight, with most believing in the value of human involvement in AI workflows. IT operations are emerging as a practical entry point, with measurable benefits in data classification, storage optimization, and cybersecurity. Success hinges on data quality, new skills, and striking a balance between autonomy and accountability.

At the 2025 World Robot Conference, Unitree Robotics founder Wang Xingxing discussed the potential for taxing robots as they enter the workforce. He suggested taxing robots based on their generated value, even proposing their use in undeveloped land with output shared with the state, contingent on advanced capabilities. He also addressed price differences in Unitree’s robot models, stating that smaller, less sophisticated robots would be more affordable, aiming for wider adoption through tiered pricing strategy.

Regal Rexnord (RRX) declared a $0.35 quarterly dividend, payable October 14, 2025, to shareholders of record on September 30, maintaining a payout streak since 1961. The company, with 30,000 employees globally, focuses on sustainable solutions for powering, transmitting, and controlling motion across diverse sectors like automation, food & beverage, aerospace, medical tech, and energy. Regal Rexnord operates through three segments and emphasizes long-term growth potential through its diversified portfolio.

SF Express is partnering with public transit in China to optimize last-mile delivery. By establishing distribution points in bus stations, like the new Chengdu service, delivery times are reduced by an average of 30 minutes. The station aims to handle over 2,000 packages daily, servicing a wide area. In Zhengzhou, SF Express is piloting using idle bus capacity for overnight package transport. Automation and integrated logistics hubs are further enhancing efficiency and coverage, suggesting a broader integration of logistics into urban infrastructure.

American corporate leaders are increasingly open about AI’s potential to displace jobs. CEOs from Ford, JPMorgan Chase, and Amazon are predicting significant workforce reductions due to AI integration and automation. Experts suggest this shift reflects a growing private acknowledgment by executives of AI’s disruptive impact on human capital, with some warning that nearly all roles could be affected.

Amazon has deployed over one million robots globally, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and delivery speed. These robots, powered by AI and managed by the DeepFleet system, operate in over 300 fulfillment centers. Amazon is training employees to work alongside robots, aiming for a 10% reduction in fleet operational time. Despite supply chain challenges, the company is heavily investing in AI, expecting its widespread impact across industries.