Business

PayPal Appoints Walmart Tech Leader Srini Venkatesan as New CTO to Drive AI Innovation

Published

9 months ago

June 20, 2024

PayPal has appointed Srini Venkatesan, a top tech executive from Walmart, as its new Chief Technology Officer to spearhead the company’s foray into artificial intelligence. Venkatesan’s hiring, announced on Thursday, underscores PayPal’s commitment to integrating advanced AI capabilities across its platform.

Venkatesan will be responsible for overseeing technology across PayPal, including AI and machine learning, information security, and product engineering. This strategic move comes as PayPal’s new CEO, Alex Chriss, seeks to leverage investor enthusiasm for AI to drive growth and innovation within the company.

Since taking the helm in September, Chriss has emphasized the importance of AI in PayPal’s future. In January, the company introduced new AI-based products, such as a platform that helps merchants reach new customers based on their shopping history. Chriss has characterized 2024 as a “transition year” for PayPal, with a focus on growing revenues beyond traditional transaction volumes.

“As we execute our mission to revolutionize commerce globally, Srini’s experience leading technology, digital transformation, and AI personalization from inside some of our largest customers and partners will be invaluable,” Chriss said in a statement.

At Walmart, Venkatesan led a team of 14,000 under the U.S. Omni Platforms and Tech organization, developing platforms to support the retailer’s operations, including components of the Walmart+ subscription service. His extensive experience in managing large-scale technology initiatives and driving digital transformation will be crucial as he transitions to PayPal.

PayPal’s current Chief Technology Officer, Archie Deskus, will support the transition before departing in July. Deskus’s exit comes at a pivotal time for PayPal, as the company navigates its technological evolution under new leadership.

With Venkatesan at the technology helm, PayPal aims to deepen its AI integration, enhancing its product offerings and operational efficiencies. This strategic appointment signals a significant step in PayPal’s journey to redefine digital commerce and maintain its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving financial technology landscape.

By focusing on AI and machine learning, PayPal is poised to offer more personalized and efficient services to its users, potentially transforming the way transactions are conducted online. Venkatesan’s expertise in AI and digital transformation is expected to drive this innovation, positioning PayPal as a leader in the fintech industry.

The new leadership team, led by Chriss and bolstered by Venkatesan’s technological prowess, is committed to harnessing the power of AI to create more value for merchants and consumers alike.

Business

CTV Nigeria Debuts on GOtv

Published

2 days ago

March 13, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Emmanuel Ogbodo

Catholic Television, Nigeria (CTV), has officially launched on the GOtv platform, expanding its reach to millions of viewers across the country.

According to a communication from MultiChoice, the channel went live today, March 13, 2025, at 10 a.m. (WAT) on GOtv channel 115.

It is available on all GOtv packages, from GOtv Lite to GOtv Supa Plus.

This milestone marks a significant step in bringing faith-based content to a wider audience, providing Catholic programming, religious teachings, and wholesome entertainment to subscribers.

With this launch, Catholic TV Nigeria strengthens its presence in the digital space, offering spiritual nourishment to viewers seeking faith-inspired content.

Business

Darasimi Denies Cheating, Speaks on Baba Tee’s Controversy

Published

5 days ago

March 10, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Abaire Olanlesi

Darasimi, the estranged wife of comedian Ganiu Morufu, popularly known as Ijoba Lande, has dismissed allegations of infidelity, insisting that her controversial encounter with Yoruba Nollywood actor Babatunde Tayo (Baba Tee) was misinterpreted.

Addressing the claims in an interview on Sunday, Darasimi explained that the incident occurred during a “Truth or Dare” game organized by her friend Marygold, where she briefly sat on Baba Tee’s lap but maintained that no sexual activity took place.

She challenged her ex-husband to produce evidence of her alleged affairs, maintaining that their marriage did not collapse due to infidelity.

However, Baba Tee admitted to a brief sexual encounter with Darasimi, blaming it on intoxication during the game.

He publicly apologized to Ijoba Lande, expressing regret for his actions.

While Darasimi chose to withhold details about the real reason for her failed marriage, she insisted that cheating was not a factor.

Business

Mr Macaroni Stands Firm, Refuses to Greet Sanwo-Olu

Published

5 days ago

March 10, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Abaire Olanlesi

Popular comedian and activist Adebowale Adedayo, known as Mr Macaroni, has doubled down on his decision to snub Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, insisting he has no regrets.

In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, Mr Macaroni dismissed criticisms over his stance, stating that even if given another chance, he would not acknowledge the governor.

“This is the last time I will address this matter. It is not worth my peace of mind,” he wrote, slamming Nigerians who defend politicians yet suffer under poor governance.

He accused some critics of hypocrisy, claiming they secretly take bribes while publicly condemning leaders.

Reaffirming his commitment to holding leaders accountable, Mr Macaroni rejected pressure to conform, declaring that he would never betray his conscience.

He also urged Nigerians to rise above tribalism and work towards national unity and justice.