Connected Consumer

Technology has given today’s Connected Consumers unprecedented access to goods and services across the world. But what does the rise of e-commerce mean for companies, consumers and investors?

What is the Connected Consumer?

Significant advancements in technology over the years have played out in favour of today’s consumer. Widespread internet access means that consumers are in a better position to make more informed purchase decisions anywhere, anytime, on any platform. Businesses must also evolve to keep pace with consumer demand, and fintech is increasingly important for companies to improve how they interact with their customers. Keeping pace with technological advancements will enable companies to engage their customers more deeply in a digital economy. 

What is the Digital Economy?

The rise of smartphones has given consumers globally unprecedented access and choice when it comes to shopping. Digitally savvy companies now offer a broader selection of goods, faster delivery, secure payments and 24/7 mobile access. E-commerce represents the part of this new digital economy that consumers are most familiar with today, and the internet retail market is expected to grow at an average rate of 14% per year over the next five years.1

of retail transactions are done digitally today; a number only likely to rise.2

 

 

of consumers surveyed in 2018 plan to make purchases on mobile – versus 40% in 2017 – with mobile usage a likely driver of digital growth overall.3

 

 

of total retail sales by 2020 are forecast to be accounted for by digital-native millennials, who are entering their peak spending years.4

 

What does this mean for investors?

Traditional businesses are reaching a critical juncture, where they must adapt to the digital age or be disrupted by more digitally savvy competitors. Retailers are rapidly adapting to the needs of these connected consumers to make shopping quicker, easier and more personalised. We believe this represents a significant structural opportunity for investors seeking long-term growth. Digital-native millennials are reaching their peak spending years, while older, wealthier generations are also increasingly connected and comfortable shopping online.

Investing in the Digital Economy

We see these trends as creating opportunities across the entire e-commerce value chain as traditional businesses embrace the Digital Economy. We refer to these opportunities as the four Ds:

  • Discovery – companies that help people find products through search engines or digital marketing platforms
  • Decision-making – e-commerce companies, web portals and mobile apps which provide consumers with convenient and reliable product choices
  • Delivery – companies creating fintech solutions to keep pace with consumers’ increasing expectations of simple payment processes or using automation in order fulfilment for same-day delivery and returns
  • Data & Enablers – digital companies which help traditional businesses migrate to the digital world

Why now for the Digital Economy?

The Digital Economy revolution is still in its early stages, and there is a growing number of new business segments emerging. For instance, the ‘Sharing Economy’ comprises high-profile companies, which are currently private, that will likely list in the coming years, expanding the investable universe and diversification opportunities.

1 Citi GPS: Technology at Work v3.0, August 2017.
2 Euromonitor International, Citibank ‘Technology at Work v3.0’, August 2017
3 Deloitte, 2018 holiday survey: retail in transition, November 2018
4 S&P via Forbes, April 2015

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This page is for advertising and informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to buy or sell any investments or products on the part of AXA Investment Managers or its affiliated companies and should not be considered a solicitation or investment, legal or tax advice. The strategies and/or products discussed herein may not be available in all jurisdictions and/or to certain types of investors. Opinions, estimates and forecasts herein are subjective and subject to change without notice. There is no guarantee that forecasts made will come to pass. No guarantee, warranty or representation is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this material. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the reader. This material does not contain sufficient information to support an investment decision. Further important information as well as information regarding the representative and the paying agent of the respective fund are available under important information.