Italy’s Cybersecurity Hub: More Than Just Pasta and Pizza
Hold onto your spaghetti, folks, because the Italians are stirring up something delicious in the cybersecurity pot! A growing cybersecurity hub is being baked in the oven of innovation, with the goal of protecting both small and large companies across the beautiful boot. And who’s spearheading this endeavor, you ask? None other than Marco Comastri, the CEO of Tinexta Cyber, which is the cybersecurity wing of a company listed on the illustrious Piazza Affari.
In an interview with Wired, Comastri made it clear: “Cybersecurity is becoming a fundamental ingredient for Italian companies.” Think of it as the cheese in your lasagna—absolutely necessary! He insists that local firms need to manage this growing threat due to the whims of geopolitics, which, let’s be honest, isn’t exactly a delicate waltz these days.
Aiming for 100 Million Euros—And Not Just in Coins!
Ready for the financial figures? By 2024, Tinexta Cyber is set to rake in 100 million euros in revenue. Not too shabby for a bunch of people who probably started their week with a couple of espressos and a prayer! With a team of 900 employees, Comastri aims to multiply that turnover by two or three times in just a few years. That’s what we call ambition!
It’s a dynamic market, as Comastri noted, and they’re riding that wave of enthusiasm. The first half of the year saw revenue grow by a mouthwatering 6.5% compared to last year. If that’s not reason enough to throw a party, I don’t know what is!
Acquisitions Galore: The Cybersecurity Buffet!
Now, let’s talk turkey—or rather, acquisitions. Comastri detailed a strategy that sounds eerily similar to playing Monopoly but with slightly less risk of flipping the board over in frustration. Since 2020, the company has gobbled up names like Corvallis, Swascan, and Yoroi to bulk up its portfolio, polishing it until it shines like a Ferrari on a sunny day. Come 2024, those companies will all be stitched together into Tinexta Cyber, creating a glorious cybersecurity quilt!
Going Organic and the Future
But the hunger for growth doesn’t stop there! Comastri is looking to pursue both “organic growth” and more juicy acquisitions. “They are the path that is viable for us to become what a country like Italy needs,” he says, referring to cybersecurity. It’s clear he has his eyes set firmly on the ball. He adds that the small business sector is not only crucial to the Italian economy, but surprisingly more vulnerable. Kind of like a toddler at a buffet—too many choices, not enough caution!
Accessibility is key, and Comastri believes that even those without a PhD in cybersecurity can benefit from Tinexta’s offerings—so no more using your cat as a firewall!
Capital for Good Deals: Just Like Pasta, Always Ready!
Worried about cash flow? Fear not! Comastri assures us that being part of a large group means they have no problem raising capital when the right deals come knocking. It’s like having an endless supply of pasta in the pantry: you just know you’ll be able to whip up something delicious whenever you need!
So, folks, keep an eye on Tinexta Cyber as they embark on this exhilarating journey towards becoming a powerhouse in Italian cybersecurity. With a pinch of diligence, a dash of talent, and perhaps a sprinkle of Italian flair, they could very well whip up a recipe for success that protects everyone from those pesky cyber threats—friend or foe!
Let’s hope Marco Comastri and his merry band of cybersecurity wizards can serve up the goods. Otherwise, we might just end up needing more than a great plate of pasta to solve these problems!
Efforts are underway to establish a robust Italian cybersecurity hub, aiming to achieve considerable scale in both service offerings and revenue generation. This initiative is designed to protect small and large enterprises throughout the country, addressing the increasing need for cybersecurity in a digital age. One of the key figures leading this charge is Marco Comastri, CEO of Tinexta Cyber, the cybersecurity division of a publicly traded group listed on Piazza Affari. “Cybersecurity is becoming an indispensable component for Italian businesses, and it is crucial that it is managed by local companies, particularly considering the geopolitical realities that are becoming more pronounced every day,” he emphasized in an interview with Wired.
In a testament to its rapid growth, Tinexta Cyber is projected to achieve 100 million euros in revenues in 2024, supported by a talented workforce of 900 employees. Comastri envisions that the company could potentially double or triple its revenue within just a few years. “We are operating in a highly dynamic market that is experiencing substantial growth; we are capitalizing on this enthusiasm,” he noted, pointing to a remarkable 6.5% increase in revenues during the first half of this fiscal year compared to the same period last year, as detailed in the parent company’s financial reports.
The overarching strategy for accelerating growth is well-defined: “Since 2020, we have actively pursued acquisitions; firms such as Corvallis, Swascan, and Yoroi have significantly enhanced our scale. As of 2024, we will officially own 100% of these companies, all of which are now fully integrated into Tinexta Cyber,” Comastri explained.
New acquisitions, including cyber security startups
Looking ahead, the plan for further expansion will be driven by both “organic growth” and strategic acquisitions. “These acquisitions are essential for us to fulfill the needs of a nation like Italy,” said Comastri, as he emphasizes the importance of serving businesses of all sizes. “We aim to position ourselves as a dedicated cybersecurity company that specializes solely in this field, as I believe that true expertise yields better results, while maintaining a strong Italian identity with accessible local services. When asked about the most critical market segment, I would argue that small businesses represent the backbone of the Italian economy and often face the greatest vulnerabilities. Our goal is to create affordable cybersecurity services that are easily manageable, even for those lacking extensive expertise in this area,” he added.
Financial resources to facilitate these acquisitions are ample. “We belong to a large group that possesses the capability to raise significant capital. When we identify the right opportunities, we are well-prepared to mobilize the necessary funds to finalize agreements,” he concluded.
**Interview with Marco Comastri, CEO of Tinexta Cyber: Building Italy’s Cybersecurity Hub**
**Interviewer:** Marco, it’s great to have you with us. Italy is known for its culture, food, and now it seems, a burgeoning cybersecurity industry. What inspired Tinexta Cyber to take the lead in this field?
**Marco Comastri:** Thank you for having me! The inspiration came from recognizing the increasing importance of cybersecurity for Italian businesses, whether they’re small, medium, or large. As we see more cyber threats arising from geopolitical tensions and digital transformation, it’s essential that these companies have reliable and effective cybersecurity measures in place.
**Interviewer:** You’ve mentioned the goal of reaching 100 million euros in revenue by 2024. What strategies are you implementing to attain this ambitious target?
**Marco Comastri:** Our strategy focuses on both organic growth and acquisitions. Since 2020, we’ve brought notable companies like Corvallis, Swascan, and Yoroi into our umbrella, integrating their expertise to enhance our service offerings. We also have a dedicated team of 900 employees who are passionately committed to driving our mission forward.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of acquisitions, it sounds like you’re actively expanding your portfolio. How do you ensure these integrations are successful?
**Marco Comastri:** Successful integration is all about culture and communication. We’re blending the strengths of each company into Tinexta Cyber, creating a holistic cybersecurity solution for our clients. We want everyone to feel like part of one team, working towards a common purpose while leveraging each other’s unique expertise.
**Interviewer:** You’ve noted that small businesses are particularly vulnerable to cyber threats. How does Tinexta Cyber plan to support this segment?
**Marco Comastri:** Absolutely. Small businesses often lack the resources to implement effective cybersecurity measures. That’s why we’re focused on making our offerings accessible, even to those who may not be tech-savvy. We believe that cybersecurity should be within reach for all businesses in Italy, regardless of size.
**Interviewer:** With rapid growth and ambitions for more, how does Tinexta Cyber address the need for capital to fuel this expansion?
**Marco Comastri:** Being part of a larger group gives us a significant advantage. We have access to capital and resources needed to pursue promising opportunities quickly. It’s like having a well-stocked pantry when you’re ready to cook up something great!
**Interviewer:** Lastly, what’s your vision for Tinexta Cyber in the next few years?
**Marco Comastri:** We aim to position ourselves as a leading cybersecurity provider in Italy, building a robust hub that can effectively serve both small and large enterprises. By focusing on innovation and collaboration, I believe we can create a safe digital environment where businesses can thrive without fear of cyber threats.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Marco. It’s exciting to see how Tinexta Cyber is paving the way for a safer cyber landscape in Italy. We look forward to following your journey!
**Marco Comastri:** Thank you! It’s an exciting time for us, and we appreciate the support. Together, we can make a difference in safeguarding our digital future.
