Digital Transformation

VEON Ltd. and Ukraine’s Ministry of Digital Transformation are partnering to create Ukraine’s first large language model (LLM), trained exclusively on Ukrainian data. This project, fueled by VEON’s $1 billion infrastructure investment, aims to develop a secure, culturally relevant AI ecosystem. The LLM will power AI-driven tools tailored to Ukrainian needs, specifically in sectors like government and healthcare. The first version is expected by December 2025, led by Kyivstar, aiming to enhance digital sovereignty and economic growth.

Altigen Technologies launched the next generation of its MaxCloud UC platform, a UCaaS solution, featuring enhanced resilience, usability, and expanded functionality. The upgrade includes a new Active/Active/Active architecture for reliability, browser-based clients, updated mobile apps, AI-driven transcription, CRM integration, and web conferencing improvements. The update delivers tangible advantages for Altigen’s channel partners and aims to streamline operations and improve user experience.

Tech influencer Wang Ziru is returning with a new focus on artificial intelligence. Formerly a consumer electronics expert, he will host a live Q&A tomorrow evening. His new venture, “Wang Ziru AI,” aims to create AI-driven content and assist traditional industries with digital transformation. This marks a significant shift from his past work with ZEALER and digital channel management, highlighting the growing importance of AI.

CEC and Ansteel Group formed a strategic partnership to accelerate Ansteel’s digital transformation using indigenous IT. This collaboration integrates advanced operating systems like GalaxyKirin, offering enhanced security and performance for key business systems including ERP and MES. This model aims to establish a closed-loop ecosystem, paving the way for China’s industrial modernization and providing a blueprint for other manufacturers pursuing technological self-reliance.

Wang Ziru, former Gree Electric digital transformation architect and ex-CEO of Xiaomi-backed tech review platform ZEALER, is returning to tech media after a three-year stint at the appliance giant. At Gree, he spearheaded the divisive “Cloud Wholesale” initiative, boosting online sales by 37% while alienating traditional dealers. Analysts suggest his corporate experience could revitalize ZEALER and offer unique product strategy insights, though challenges include competing with ByteDance’s Douyin and balancing industry expertise with consumer trust. Gree’s shares dropped 1.2% amid succession concerns following his career shift. (98 words)

UL Solutions Inc. announced a $0.13 per share quarterly cash dividend, approved by its board, payable on June 9 to shareholders of record by May 30, 2025. The payout reflects the company’s financial discipline and commitment to returns amid market volatility. A global leader in safety science, UL Solutions provides testing, certification, and advisory services across 110+ countries, leveraging its iconic UL Mark to ensure product integrity. Emphasizing innovation in cybersecurity, renewables, and ESG-aligned initiatives, the firm aims to transform operational challenges into competitive advantages. Analysts highlight its stable dividend history and outperformance in industrial sectors, driven by digital transformation and high-growth verticals like AI and circular economy frameworks.