Gary Foster, MD examines the rise of AI agents, the latest evolution of AI. Unlike traditional machine learning or generative AI models that perform single, isolated tasks - AI agents represent a paradigm shift: they can reason, plan, and act autonomously across workflows.

Many organizations struggle with traditional IT models that are project-centric, leading to fragmented accountability, sub-scale infrastructure, and slow delivery. The shift to product and platform models aligns technology with business value, enabling faster time-to-market and higher growth. These models distinguish between products, which drive differentiation, and platforms, which provide shared services for scale and efficiency. Key design principles include clear ownership, customer focus, stable cross-functional teams, separation of product and platform layers, and modernized funding and governance. Systems integrators are integrated within teams to support capacity and capability building, with a focus on outcomes rather than fixed scope. When implemented well, these models improve speed, reduce costs, and enhance business impact, including productivity gains beyond technology functions. Executives should focus on unlocking value through targeted changes, capacity optimization, partner integration, and practical execution to sustain growth and operational continuity.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands as one of the world's premier business hubs, distinguished by its strategic location, forward-thinking policies, economic resilience, and digital innovation.

See the latest commentary from our team of tax experts in relation to the Singapore Budget 2026.