Consulting rates decline, several key AI hires and initiatives at Simon-Kucher and Horvath

In this episode, we highlight Horváth’s acquisition of Studicon and the launch of its Horváth.AI brand, underscoring the race to expand AI service offerings. Meanwhile, a Lünendonk study reveals Accenture, Deloitte, Capgemini and PwC driving a robust German AI boom amidst wider IT sector stagnation - a clear signal that advanced tech expertise is now a decisive market differentiator. Additionally, Germany’s consulting sector has seen its first decline in average daily rates, a development with direct implications for project pricing, resourcing, and profitability.Don’t miss these further relevant headlines:- Simon-Kucher appoints Patricia Faur to lead its new AI-focused SKAI Lab  - Capgemini sees agentic AI transforming enterprise data platforms  - PwC forecasts German machinery sector slump to persist into 2026  - BDU reports IT consulting faces sharper fee declines than strategy consulting