Quick takes

Watch your tweets (or is it “X’s”?)

Web Summit’s Founder and CEO Paddy Cosgrave has resigned after he tweeted his view of the Israel-Hamas war. Tech giants pulled their sponsorship and support. Paddy apologised, but within days he was forced to resign. It remains to be seen how much permanent damage will be done to the event.

Report: Events in Asia are back, worries about costs

According to BCD M&E’s What’s Trending 2024 report, tradeshows, large conferences and meetings, and incentive travel have bounced back strongly, but inflation and rising costs are putting strain on budgets causing some to reduce the size or participation.

ITB Asia sets record in Singapore

ITB Asia 2023 reported a record-breaking 35% increase in new exhibitors. 1,838 international exhibitors participated in the travel and business events show – with Messe Berlin stating that there was 38% jump in MICE suppliers and a 200% growth in travel tech firms.