The newest episode of Drinks and Mics (Season 2, Episode 8) dives into some of the most pressing global and local economic issues—ranging from the rise in cyber fraud to the recent crash in gold prices, debates over capital gains tax, and the growing influence of artificial intelligence in data control.
Hosted by Tunji, this lively discussion features Arnold Dublin-Green, Bolawatife Odusanya (CEO of Trexm Holdings), and Gbolabo Awelewa (Chief Business Officer at Esentry). Together, they unpack the technological, financial, and policy issues shaping markets and businesses across Nigeria and beyond.
Cyber Fraud and the Cloud: A Growing Concern
The episode kicks off with an in-depth analysis of cybersecurity and the vulnerabilities tied to cloud computing.
Gbolabo Awelewa describes Amazon Web Services (AWS) as “the biggest single point of failure in the world,” emphasizing how deeply embedded the platform is in the operations of businesses and individuals.
The panel examines how heavy reliance on cloud infrastructure poses systemic risks, especially when combined with increasing incidents of cyberattacks and digital fraud targeting African businesses.
AI and Data Security Risks
The conversation then shifts to artificial intelligence and the potential dangers of data misuse.
The hosts discuss how organizations and individuals feeding sensitive information into AI models—such as ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini—could be exposing themselves to privacy and security risks.
They highlight the need for stronger governance frameworks and awareness around how personal data is collected, stored, and used by AI systems that are now integrated into business operations worldwide.
Gold Market Crash and Its Ripple Effects
Another major talking point in the episode is the sharp fall in gold prices after months of record highs.
Tunji notes that gold’s recent dip may be connected to movements in the cryptocurrency market, suggesting that “Bitcoin seems to be dragged down alongside gold.”
Arnold Dublin-Green adds that the volatility was concerning, noting that his target price for gold at the end of 2025 was $3,500—but the commodity had already exceeded that by nearly $1,000 earlier in the year.
Tunji pointed out that gold had surged by 60% in 2025, including a 25% spike in just two months, before the recent correction.
Capital Gains Tax Debate Heats Up
The panel also touches on the ongoing debate over the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) proposed in Nigeria’s tax reform efforts.
The hosts describe the policy as controversial but acknowledge its potential benefits in boosting government revenue and promoting fiscal transparency—if implemented fairly and efficiently.
Security Efforts and Oil Sector Recovery
Rounding off the episode, the speakers commend recent local security initiatives that have positively impacted oil production in Nigeria. Improved regional stability, they note, has contributed to higher output and better investor sentiment in the energy sector.
Final Thoughts
From cybersecurity to commodity markets and fiscal policy, this episode of Drinks and Mics offers deep insights into the fast-changing economic landscape.
As the “fantastic four” dissect how technology, policy, and global market shifts are influencing business decisions, the episode provides a timely perspective on how Nigerians and investors should prepare for what lies ahead.
Watch the full episode of “Drinks and Mics” on Nairametrics TV to learn how these evolving dynamics could affect your money, your business, and the broader economy.
Emmanuel Bassey is a Financial Expert that has worked in the Banking and Finance Industry for over 15+ years across different banks in Nigeria
