Cliff Banks is the founder of AUTOVATE, an annual conference, podcast, and newsletter that covers the intersection of innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment in automotive retail. Now in its eighth year, AUTOVATE has helped foster nearly 2 billion in acquisitions and investments in automotive retail technology companies. 

He has 35 years of experience in the automotive sector and nearly 25 years as a journalist and analyst. having spent more than 10 years as an editor with WardsAuto, followed by two years managing the Digital Dealer conferences and publications, prior to launching The Banks Report, an online newsletter focused on investment in the automotive retail space, in 2013.

His in-depth knowledge and expertise in the automotive sector have made him a sought-after figure for media commentary. He regularly contributes to discussions in print, radio, and TV. Additionally, Banks has been a keynote speaker and panel moderator at numerous industry conferences and offers consulting services to investors and analysts interested in the automotive retail business.