Tomás 'Fazer' Petunchi, a 20-year-old from Funes, Argentina, has become a prominent figure in the world of Fortnite esports. With three regional FNCS championships under his belt, he recently competed in the FNCS 2024 finals in Dallas, Texas, achieving a top regional ranking. Initially a hobby, gaming has become a full-time occupation for Tomás, who now dedicates 8-10 hours daily to training. He is part of Shinden, an esports team founded by Lit Killah and Spreen. The global gaming market is booming, with significant growth driven by young players. In Argentina, the industry generated $72 million last year, with increasing demand for professionals in the field.

Argentina has talent but struggles with patenting scientific discoveries, with few reaching the global market. The case of Eco Hair, a baldness lotion developed from a Conicet patent, is an exception rather than the rule. Patent applications have declined over the past decade, with only 14% from Argentine residents. Experts cite a culture favoring academic publication over patenting, cumbersome and underfunded patent processes, and the country's non-participation in the PCT as barriers. Successful technology transfer from research institutions to the market is rare, and the country's investment in science and technology is below UNESCO's recommended level, with low private sector contribution. Despite these challenges, there are success stories like a therapeutic vaccine against melanoma, highlighting the potential for innovation to contribute to economic development.

Argentinian scientists, led by chemical engineer Florencia Jerez, are exploring the use of used yerba mate to create activated carbon for energy storage and environmental decontamination. This innovative approach aims to transform organic waste into supercapacitors, which can store and release large amounts of energy quickly. The research, conducted at the Universidad Nacional del Centro and supported by Conicet, highlights the potential for a sustainable industry that leverages abundant local resources. The team is working on establishing a pilot plant and transferring the technology to interested companies, with the goal of reducing reliance on imported activated carbon and promoting renewable energy solutions.

The Argentine startup and fintech ecosystem is experiencing significant growth, with a 145% increase in investment in tech companies. Agricultural technology startups, or AgTech, have become prominent, attracting $100 million in investments in 2019. The Rosario Stock Exchange (BCR) has launched the 'Startup Network' to support agro-industrial startups, offering benefits like non-reimbursable credits from Amazon Web Services and international events. The initiative aims to foster innovative solutions for both primary production and industrial applications, with nearly 25 tech companies already participating. Key players include Agrofy, a major agribusiness platform, and partnerships with Amazon Web Services, Bayer, and local tech hubs.

Regional economies in Argentina have significant growth opportunities, as discussed in the Agro Summit organized by Forbes and Radio Continental. Key industry leaders highlighted the importance of energy transition, with Catalina Lonac emphasizing the role of ethanol and the need for a shift in the energy matrix by 2030. Ivana Cavigliasso showcased the peanut industry's leadership in exports and circular economy practices. Hernán Busch from Banco Galicia discussed the growth in banking finance for agribusiness, while Martín Otero Monsegur of San Miguel SA highlighted the company's global expansion and product innovation. The discussions underscored the need for continuous investment and adaptation to meet market demands.

The electrocardiograph, a crucial device for heart function assessment, has seen little change since its invention by Nobel laureate Willem Einthoven. Argentine researcher Mario Mc Loughlin has developed a new system that enhances the sensitivity and precision of electrocardiograms. This innovation, presented at the International Arrhythmia Congress and published in the Journal of Electrocardiology, offers more detailed insights, especially for high-risk patients. The system integrates with conventional electrocardiographs, requiring no new equipment or retraining. Developed with the Instituto de Ingeniería Biomédica and the Facultad de Ingeniería de la UBA, the project has garnered interest from a Danish university for further validation. The article also highlights the importance of electrocardiograms in pre-sport checkups and general health assessments.

Chinese authorities, including the People's Bank of China and other regulatory bodies, have accused Ant Group and Alibaba of regulatory non-compliance and foul play, demanding greater transparency in their financial activities. This has led to a significant drop in Alibaba's stock value. Jack Ma, the founder of Alibaba, has been a central figure in this controversy, especially after his critical comments on China's financial regulations. The article highlights the rapid growth of Ant Group, its significant market presence, and the regulatory challenges it faces. The sentiment towards Ant Group and Alibaba is predominantly negative due to the accusations and subsequent financial repercussions.

Argentina's cattle industry faces challenges with rising meat prices and low profitability for producers, while large exporters benefit. Víctor Tonelli, an expert in livestock, discusses the impact of export restrictions and the high cost of feed. He highlights the disparity between different segments of the industry, noting that while some are thriving, others, including many producers, are struggling. The government is expected to pressure against price increases, but a real rise in meat prices is anticipated due to limited supply.

Facing difficulties importing spare parts from China, Argentine SME Grupo Uno LED, led by Javier Miranda, invested in 120 3D printers to produce their own components, ensuring self-sustainability and job creation. The global supply chain crisis, exacerbated by the pandemic and the war in Ukraine, has accelerated the adoption of 3D printing across various industries. Experts like Gustavo Rodríguez from ITBA highlight the cost and time-saving benefits of this technology. The health sector, in particular, sees significant advancements with 3D printing, from dental prosthetics to bio-printed human tissues. The trend towards digital manufacturing is reshaping business models, with potential for consumers to print products at home in the future.

In Sunchales, Argentina, Eolo Pharma, an Argentine-Uruguayan company, is developing a new drug to combat obesity and type II diabetes. The drug, a chemically synthesized molecule, improves lipid profiles and prevents insulin resistance by targeting inflammatory processes. Initial tests on mice have shown promising results, maintaining normal glucose and lipid levels despite high-calorie diets. The drug aims to prevent weight gain and the 'rebound effect' seen in dieters. The project, which began a decade ago, has received significant investments and is currently being patented in the US, Japan, and Europe. Clinical trials are expected to take another five to six years.