DeepSeek publishes a new AI framework to boost scalability and efficiency, highlighting China’s efforts to advance large-scale AI under semiconductor restrictions.
Baidu’s AI chip division, Kunlunxin, has confidentially filed for a Hong Kong IPO. The move aims to highlight the unit’s value and attract investors focused on AI hardware and software.
Users on X have exploited the platform’s Grok AI tool to generate sexually abusive images of women and children. The incident has intensified scrutiny of AI safeguards and platform accountability.
OpenAI has consolidated internal teams to accelerate development of advanced audio models ahead of a planned audio-first personal device. The effort signals a broader industry shift toward voice-based interfaces.
European banks could eliminate more than 200,000 jobs by 2030 as artificial intelligence reshapes operations and accelerates branch closures. Back-office, risk, and compliance roles are expected to be most affected.
The rise of AI startups is renewing interest in founders who leave school early to build companies. Investors say the dropout label matters less than execution, timing, and defensible products.
Chinese AI startup MiniMax plans a Hong Kong IPO, aiming to raise over $600 million with backing from Alibaba and Abu Dhabi Investment Authority. The move positions MiniMax as a key player in China’s generative AI market.
China’s Cyberspace Administration proposed strict AI regulations to protect children and prevent chatbots from promoting self-harm, violence, or gambling, while ensuring human oversight in sensitive interactions.
Octopus Energy plans to spin out its AI software unit Kraken Technologies, following a $1 billion funding round that values the business at $8.65 billion. The move sets the stage for a potential public listing.
SoftBank has finalized its $40 billion investment in OpenAI, increasing its stake above 10%. The funding supports AI infrastructure initiatives, joint ventures, and OpenAI’s broader growth, including plans for a potential IPO.
Goldman Sachs and Newmark Group are raising capital to develop private power sites for AI data centers in Texas. The effort reflects growing Wall Street focus on AI-driven energy infrastructure.
Investors expect enterprises to increase AI budgets in 2026 while cutting back on experimentation. Spending is likely to concentrate among fewer vendors that demonstrate clear returns.
Meta Platforms has agreed to acquire Singapore-based AI startup Manus for about $2 billion, gaining a rare revenue-generating AI agent platform. The deal strengthens Meta’s AI strategy as investor scrutiny grows around heavy infrastructure spending.
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants will discontinue remote exams from March 2026, citing rising misconduct linked to AI tools. Most candidates will return to in-person test centers.
China’s cyber regulator released draft rules targeting AI services that simulate human personalities and interact emotionally. The proposals aim to address safety, addiction, and ethical concerns.