Cost management

Barclays reported a robust 12% annual profit surge to £9.1 billion in 2025, raising its 2028 return on tangible equity target to over 14%. This growth is driven by U.S. expansion and significant cost reductions, with artificial intelligence playing a pivotal role in efficiency gains. Barclays is integrating AI into core operations for sustained cost savings, demonstrating a tangible impact of technology on profitability beyond traditional tech firms.

A Chery Auto executive states Chinese consumers are diverting savings once intended for property towards purchasing cars for life enhancement, seeing it as a pragmatic upgrade. He forecasts 2025 auto sales could reach ~24 million units (matching Western Europe’s market). This contrasts with financial commentator Wu Xiaobo’s view that cars are poor investments for lower earners due to depreciation and high ongoing costs, suggesting alternatives like education or assets be prioritized.

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