AI Funding, Crypto Legislation, and Yahoo's Revival: The Latest in Tech and Trade News

OWITH.ai - Only What's Important to Hear around AI and Tech

Good morning from OWITH.ai: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in AI and tech world.H2Ok Innovations, a manufacturing tech startup founded by siblings Annie and David Lu, recently raised $12 million in Series A funding. The company provides precision automation solutions for big-name customers like AB InBev, Coca-Cola, Danone, and Unilever. Their goal is to optimize manufacturing processes through data collection and sensors to increase efficiency. The Lus, who come from a multi-generational manufacturing family, have a deep understanding and passion for the industry. With growing uncertainty in global supply chains, H2Ok aims to help manufacturers adapt to changing economic and political landscapes. The company's innovative technology has attracted significant investment interest and partnerships with industry giants.Major corporations in the U.S. are highlighting artificial intelligence as a disclosed risk in their financial filings, with concerns about the return on investment for AI spending. The U.S. Congress has been working on new crypto legislation, with Republicans proposing regulatory frameworks for digital assets and stablecoin issuers. Apple has signed a deal with rare-earth producer MP Materials to secure access to essential components for its products. Former OpenAI CTO Mira Murati's new startup, Thinking Machines Lab, has raised $2 billion from top tech investors and is valued at $12 billion. Other tech news includes Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg's comments on AI talent recruitment, Mistral releasing an open-source AI audio model, Google signing power deals, Microsoft reportedly using China engineers for U.S. government systems, and Roblox debuting a licensing platform with companies like Netflix and Lionsgate.Yahoo CEO Jim Lanzone discusses the revival of the company and his plans for the future in a conversation with Diane Brady. Lanzone draws inspiration from brands like Nike and New Balance, emphasizing that success takes time and effort. He aims to bring Yahoo back into the spotlight by focusing on product quality and engaging with younger audiences. Lanzone's vision for the company includes building on its existing brand loyalty and expanding its reach through innovative strategies.In other news, tariff-driven inflation is on the rise, with key categories seeing price increases that are likely related to tariffs. President Trump has announced plans to impose tariffs on drug companies and semiconductor chips, as well as a 19% tariff on Indonesia. The market is reacting to these developments, with ASML stock dropping after their CEO expressed uncertainty about future growth. Analysts predict that inflation will continue to rise due to the administration's tariff-centric trade agenda. The Port of Los Angeles has experienced its busiest June on record, reflecting efforts by companies to import goods before the upcoming tariff deadlines. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent hints at Jerome Powell's possible replacement as chair of the Federal Reserve, causing concern among financial experts about the independence of the Fed. Overall, the market is facing uncertainty and potential challenges due to escalating trade tensions and geopolitical developments.

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Linkedin