Rômulo Cioffi, CIOO and CAIO at SQUADRA, shares insights on AI at InforChannel
More than a gift exchange, InforChannel's Secret Santa is today a space for integration and reflection on the great technological and economic challenges shaping the future of companies.
Source: InforChannel pt-br | InforChannel LATAM
The traditional InforChannel Secret Santa initiative is once again energizing the information and communication technology (ICT) sector. Over the years, more than a celebration, the event has become a privileged and strategic forum for leaders and experts to discuss the main challenges and trends that will shape the future of the industry and its business models.
With 190 participating companies, the 2025 edition of InforChannel's Secret Santa brings a wide range of questioned topics and even inflection points, including cloud and edge computing, cybersecurity, workforce, taxes, including tax reform, sustainability; the direction of the sector and global challenges foreseen for 2026.
The questions gathered here challenge and affect ICT companies, contributing to daily operations, as well as planning and action plans. This approach allows ICT leaders to gain a comprehensive view and position themselves effectively in a continuously transforming landscape.
Numbers and Investments
The numbers reinforce the importance of these debates.
According to a study by Brasscom and IDC, cloud investments in Brazil are expected to grow 15% annually until 2028, totaling R$331.9 billion. Furthermore, Gartner predicts that the country will experience a peak in cloud investments by 2026, with over 30 data centers under construction. This shows that the cloud is not just a trend, but critical infrastructure for competitiveness.
Digital security is another central axis. A Brasscom report projects R$104.6 billion in cybersecurity investments between 2025 and 2028. Brazil is already one of the main global targets for attacks, with over 60 billion attempts registered in 2023. Therefore, the issues raised here about adjustments in SaaS and cybersecurity in the face of the global scenario gain relevance. Experts point out that cybersecurity should gain even more centrality, with robust investments in data protection and critical infrastructure.
The SaaS model, which has consolidated as the standard for software delivery, may undergo adjustments. This market in Brazil is expected to grow 20% annually, but only 5% of SMEs currently use SaaS solutions. This reveals enormous expansion space, especially in a scenario where regulatory and macroeconomic changes tend to redefine priorities in digital sovereignty and compliance.
Another highlight is digital inclusion. IBGE data shows that in just two years, Brazil has connected 6.1 million new internet users, reaching 89.1% of the population aged 10 and over in 2024. The North and Northeast regions led the expansion, reducing historical inequalities. Nevertheless, about 22 million Brazilians remain digitally excluded, making the issue urgent for public policies and private initiatives.
Business Relevance
This InforChannel initiative consolidates itself as a unique space for integration, information, data, and reflection on the sector's direction, bringing together the best of the ICT ecosystem. Ultimately, it reaffirms its importance as a moment of collective learning, perspective building, and valuing the strategic role of technology, as well as the market, with new regulatory demands and changes in the workforce profile.
The role of technology integrators is worth highlighting. The discussion revolves around how these companies can reposition themselves as providers of complete solutions, not just product suppliers. The idea is for the sector to move towards higher value-added models, capable of meeting the complex needs of clients seeking efficiency, innovation, and security in their digital operations.
The proposals presented for digital inclusion, which also occupies a relevant space, involve thinking about solutions that combine public policies, technological innovation, and private partnerships to reduce inequalities and ensure that the benefits of digital transformation reach everyone.
InforChannel's Secret Santa, in addition to being a fun activity, offers the opportunity to exchange relevant information, share experiences, and reflect on the sector's direction.
Debate: Competitive Advantage in AI
Question (Vitor Genaro): In the future, who will have a competitive advantage: those who master technology or those who better understand data? Why?
Vitor Genaro, solutions director at Ábaco Consulting
Answer (Romulo Cioffi): "We are living in the era of generative AI, where technology is increasingly democratized, meaning any company can access the same tools." Technology without data intelligence is like having a powerful car without knowing where to go. Those who master data can use technology to solve real problems with personalized solutions. It's about delivering business results, not just technology. In the new era of AI, the power lies with those who can extract unique insights and transform them into strategic decisions. Mastering data is essential.
Romulo Cioffi, director of AI and CIOO at Squadra
Debate: Capturing Real Value from AI
Question (Romulo Cioffi): If AI is already here, why do so many companies still struggle to capture real value from it?
Romulo Cioffi, director of AI and CIOO at Squadra
Answer (Juan Alejandro Aguirre): This difficulty stems from the lack of alignment of artificial intelligence with human needs and the non-prioritization of trust, ethical use of AI, and workforce preparation. This can be avoided by using AI to understand which products should be developed and in which segments to sell. Those who advance to this model without Data Governance and cybersecurity fail to fully leverage AI. On the other hand, the model gains strength when AI is used to identify which attacks may arise and what measures to take to prevent risks from materializing. AI platforms not only improve threat detection and response capabilities but also enable the organization to be predictive and resilient. Alignment with the ZTNA model is another factor that brings even more real value to the AI-using company.
Juan Alejandro Aguirre, director of solutions engineering at SonicWall AL
