EMW Company Update June 2024

US Broadband Industry is Ripe for Investment

The American broadband industry stands at the cusp of transformation, fueled by technological strides and soaring demand for high-speed internet. The pandemic acted as a catalyst, propelling remote work and digital education into the mainstream, underscoring the pressing need for robust broadband infrastructure. Major players like Comcast, AT&T, and Verizon began spearheading initiatives to expand fiber-optic networks, promising faster and more reliable connectivity.

The federal government’s commitment to bridging the digital divide was cemented with the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, a cornerstone of the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. BEAD allocates a staggering $42.45 billion to fund broadband infrastructure projects, with a focus on underserved and rural communities. Beyond mere network expansion, the program emphasizes affordability, digital literacy, and ensures equitable access to the internet’s vast resources.

As broadband technology continues to advance, the focus is shifting from just speed to also encompass affordability and accessibility. With ongoing investments and policy tailwinds, the future of the U.S. broadband market appears promising and is poised to deliver faster, more inclusive internet services across the nation.

With fifteen states now eligible to receive their BEAD allocations, among numerous other ongoing government programs aimed to bolster broadband deployment efforts, the timing is opportune for investors to capitalize on the U.S. broadband market. 

EMW’s analysts have been keeping a close watch on the rapidly evolving U.S. broadband landscape. Our team stands ready to engage with companies seeking to tap into this promising market, offering insights and strategies to navigate the sector effectively and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Team Member Spotlight: David Urintsev

David Urintsev, Senior International Business Development Associate, has been a valued member of the EMW team since 2018. The team sat down with him to celebrate this milestone and reflect on his experience at EMW. Here’s what Dave had to say:

Tell us about the type of client work that excites you:

“Exploring new international markets for our clients is extremely exciting to me. The initiative to help companies navigate and expand into new international markets, overcome challenges, and seize new business opportunities is electrifying. The cross-cultural aspect of this process, whether it’s changing strategies for different markets or understanding diverse consumer behaviors, is a continuous learning journey that I thoroughly enjoy.”

David Urintsev in Dubai, UAE after a F&B Tradeshow
When assessing if a prospective client is a good fit for international growth, what key points are you looking for?

“When analyzing if a prospective client is a good fit for global expansion, I think it’s important to consider several factors to ensure a fruitful partnership. I think the prospective client’s international market potential is essential. Evaluating their potential for growth and expansion in the international target markets and understanding the demand for their products or services in those regions helps me determine if expansion is a good fit.

I also believe that investigating the industry’s competitive landscape in the target markets is integral, as it helps highlight any potential significant barriers to entry right away. While there are several other important factors, I’ll end with flexibility. It’s important to assess a company’s adaptability and readiness to various international regulations, cultural adjustments, or operational challenges in regions around the world to ensure the best probability of success.”

You’ve been around the world and then some for your work with clients. What are some of your favorite industry events or conferences you have attended, and where were they?

“I’ve been lucky to have attended some incredibly interesting events for our clients around the world that I’ve learned an incredible amount from. A few personal favorites include:

  • Gulf Foods (United Arab Emirates) – This tradeshow is the largest Food & Beverage event in the world! I’ve exhibited a few times with our client and it’s truly remarkable to see over 130,000 people file into an expo center every morning. 
  • SPIE Astronomical Telescopes (Japan) – This conference was for companies involved in all parts of space exploration, specifically for the incredibly complex optics that are involved in the spacecraft that are sent to outer space.
  • HOST Milano (Italy) – HOST Milano is an event for suppliers in the Hotel & Hospitality industry. From equipment to clothing to consumables, there were over 20 halls full of products at the last show I attended.
  • Discoveries Mining Conference (Mexico) – This was a conference for companies interested in getting more involved in the growing mining industry in Mexico, specifically in the states of Sonora, Chihuahua and Zacatecas.

Navigating the Future of International Trade Agreements

In an increasingly interconnected world, international trade agreements have played a pivotal role in shaping global economic policy and facilitating the exchange of goods, services, and capital across borders, thereby reducing trade barriers and promoting economic cooperation. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, the landscape of international trade continues to undergo significant transformations driven by technological advancements, shifting geopolitical dynamics, and emerging economic challenges. All of these factors are working to reshape the future of trade agreements.

This article explores the various trends and factors impacting the way international trade agreements are written and formed. From the emergence of non-traditional trade agreements to geopolitical shifts, and the fostering of inclusivity, we explore how the changing landscape is influencing the future of international trade agreements.

Check out the Latest Talking Trade Episodes

E.M. Wasylik Managing Director Ken Wasylik and M.E. Dey & Co. President and Managing Director Sandi Siegel continue to host the Talking Trade podcast, produced by WisBusiness. Talking Trade features interviews with a variety of experts from different backgrounds and industries and each episode features engaging discussion on topics that include trade policy, supply chains, economic trends, and much more. 

Talking Trade is available on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, WisBusiness, and E.M. Wasylik. Check out some recent episodes featuring Sahr Lebbie of Global Lite Refinery, and Dean Haen of the Port of Green Bay!

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