In the case of 1), the string theoretic tools, including AdS/CFT appear to be more effective in condensed matter physics than in their originally-intended use.

In the case of 1), the string theoretic tools, including AdS/CFT appear to be more effective in condensed matter physics than in their originally-intended use. I've been glad to see the emergence of the Grassmannian/'amplituhedron' ideas, as they're different, and different would appear to be good.