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In a bold move to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape, Charter Communications and Cox Communications — two of the largest cable companies in the U.S. — have agreed to merge in a $34.5 billion deal, including debt. The merger signals a significant shift in the cable industry as consumers continue to abandon traditional TV services in favor of streaming and wireless alternatives.

A Strategic Alliance to Counter Cord-Cutting and Competition

The merger aims to create a stronger competitor against telecom giants like AT&T and T-Mobile, who are attracting customers with bundled broadband and mobile services. With millions of Americans ditching cable for cheaper streaming options, traditional providers are under immense pressure to adapt.

Charter, best known under its Spectrum brand, has been steadily increasing its mobile subscriber base despite declining TV subscriptions. Meanwhile, Cox — a privately held division of Cox Enterprises, founded in 1898 — brings deep market reach and decades of industry experience to the table.

Leadership and Branding Plans

While the merged entity will officially be known as Cox Communications, Spectrum will remain the consumer-facing brand. The corporate headquarters will be based in Stamford, Connecticut, with a major presence in Atlanta, where Cox is currently headquartered.

“This combination will augment our ability to innovate and provide high-quality, competitively priced products,” said Charter CEO Chris Winfrey. “We aim to deliver outstanding customer service to millions of homes and businesses.”

Stock Surge and Industry Impact

Following the merger announcement, Charter’s (CHTR) stock surged over 6%, continuing its strong performance this year with a 22% rise since January. Analysts say the move could reshape the cable industry’s competitive landscape and may spark further consolidation.

Awaiting Regulatory Approval

The deal is subject to regulatory approval, and with heightened scrutiny on large-scale mergers, all eyes will be on how the Biden administration responds to this consolidation in the media and telecom space.

As cable providers evolve from traditional TV to broadband and mobile service bundles, this merger may represent the new blueprint for survival and growth in the era of streaming.

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OpenAI is preparing to launch one of the largest AI data centers in the world — a 5-gigawatt facility in Abu Dhabi — in partnership with UAE-based tech giant G42, according to recent reports. The planned campus will span approximately 10 square miles, making it larger than the entire country of Monaco, and will consume energy equivalent to five nuclear power plants.

This initiative is part of OpenAI’s Stargate project, an ambitious global infrastructure plan backed by OpenAI, Oracle, and SoftBank. The Abu Dhabi site will dramatically surpass the scale of OpenAI’s first Stargate campus in Abilene, Texas, which is expected to deliver 1.2 gigawatts once completed.

A Strategic Middle East Move Amid Geopolitical Tensions

OpenAI’s deepening ties with G42 — which began with a 2023 AI collaboration — reflect the UAE’s push to become a global leader in artificial intelligence. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman previously praised the UAE for its early investment in AI, stating that the country was “talking about AI since before it was cool.”

However, G42’s relationships with Chinese companies like Huawei and Beijing Genomics Institute have drawn scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers, who raised concerns about potential tech transfers. These ties have since reportedly been severed, with G42 confirming it has divested from all Chinese investments and eliminated its China-based operations.

Microsoft’s Growing Role in Regional AI Growth

Following these developments, Microsoft, a major investor in OpenAI, invested $1.5 billion in G42 earlier in 2024. Microsoft President Brad Smith also joined G42’s board, signaling growing American tech involvement in the UAE’s AI ambitions.

An AI Infrastructure Arms Race

If realized, the Abu Dhabi project would redefine the scale of AI infrastructure globally. The data center’s 5-gigawatt capacity could host vast quantities of advanced computing hardware, supporting large-scale AI model training and deployment.

The move positions OpenAI at the forefront of a global AI infrastructure arms race, as companies and nations compete to secure the resources necessary for next-gen artificial intelligence.

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China’s exports surged in April 2025, defying expectations and giving Beijing a stronger position ahead of key trade negotiations with the United States.

According to official data, exports rose 8.1% year-on-year, significantly beating analyst forecasts of 1.9%. While the growth was slightly lower than March’s 12.4%, it reflects continued strength in China’s global trade performance—even amid rising US tariffs.

Export Growth Despite US Tariffs

This positive export performance comes despite President Donald Trump’s steep tariff increases, which now reach as high as 145% on most Chinese imports. China responded with its own set of retaliatory tariffs, escalating the ongoing trade war between the two largest global economies.

Despite these pressures, China’s exporters have adapted. Many companies have shifted their focus to other markets, reducing dependence on US-bound shipments.

Trade Shifts to Southeast Asia and Europe

China’s trade with the US dropped 21% year-on-year in April. However, this was offset by rising exports to Southeast Asia and the European Union. Shipments to Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand saw the highest increases, while trade with the EU rose by 8%.

“Chinese exports to the rest of Asia are performing particularly well,” said Jens Eskelund, president of the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China. “We’re also seeing growing demand from the Middle East and Europe.”

These shifts indicate that China is effectively diversifying its trade routes in response to geopolitical and economic pressures.

Trade Surplus Still High

In April, China’s trade surplus with the US reached $20.46 billion, while its total global trade surplus rose to $96.2 billion. Imports, however, fell by 0.2% for the third consecutive month, raising concerns about domestic demand.

Economists believe this surplus will become a central point in upcoming trade talks, especially as US exports to China continue to decline.

Upcoming Trade Talks in Geneva

This weekend, US and Chinese officials are set to meet in Geneva for a new round of trade negotiations. The US will be represented by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. China’s delegation will be led by Vice Premier He Lifeng, its top economic policymaker.

With export numbers strong and trade diversified, China enters these talks with a more confident footing.

European Concerns Over Market Access

While China’s trade strategy shows success, not all partners are satisfied. The European Union has expressed concern over the growing imbalance in trade with China and the challenges European businesses face in accessing the Chinese market.

“There is huge concern over China’s export controls and the lack of a level playing field for European companies,” said EU Ambassador Jorge Toledo during a business forum in Shanghai.

China’s April export growth showcases its resilience in navigating global economic challenges. As it strengthens trade ties beyond the US, it also increases pressure on American negotiators ahead of critical discussions.

However, ongoing concerns from the EU and other trading partners mean China still faces scrutiny over its trade practices. How the Geneva talks unfold may shape the next chapter in the global trade landscape.

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McDonald’s has reported its steepest decline in U.S. sales since the COVID-19 pandemic, with like-for-like revenue in domestic outlets falling by 3.6% in the first quarter of 2025. The slump underscores growing consumer hesitation amid persistent economic uncertainty and inflationary pressure.

Despite aggressive promotional campaigns—including a marketing collaboration with the upcoming Minecraft movie and various value deals—U.S. customers made fewer visits to the fast-food chain compared to the same period last year.

US Economic Backdrop

This unexpected downturn coincides with a 0.3% contraction in the U.S. economy during the same quarter, marking the first economic shrinkage since 2022. President Donald Trump, in his early months back in office, has urged Americans for patience and attributed current challenges to what he termed “the Biden economy.”

Financial experts say households—especially low-income ones—are feeling the pressure. Danni Hewson, head of financial analysis at AJ Bell, commented that Americans are “cutting back on discretionary spending” and bracing for further financial strain due to inflation and fears of potential job losses.

Global vs. Domestic Performance

While McDonald’s global operations in countries like Japan, Australia, and the Middle East showed sales growth, the downturn in the U.S. market dragged global like-for-like revenue down 1% for the quarter.

CEO Chris Kempczinski acknowledged the challenges, noting that “consumers today are grappling with uncertainty,” but emphasized the brand’s long-standing commitment to value and adaptability:

“McDonald’s has a 70-year legacy of innovation, leadership, and proven agility… giving us confidence in our ability to navigate even the toughest of market conditions.”

Impact of Trade Policy and Tariffs

Much of the economic anxiety is being fueled by the new wave of tariffs announced by President Trump, including a major batch on April 2, dubbed “Liberation Day.” These tariffs have triggered mixed reactions across industries.

Major companies like Intel warned that costs and recession risks could rise, while Adidas signaled potential U.S. price hikes on popular sneakers like the Gazelle and Samba. DHL temporarily halted deliveries over customs rule uncertainties before negotiating terms.

Although the Trump administration argues that tariffs will lead to more domestic jobs, many economists suggest that short-term economic pain—including reduced consumer spending and corporate cutbacks—is more likely.

McDonald’s current struggles reflect broader consumer sentiment in the U.S. as economic challenges mount. With fears over inflation, employment, and trade tensions on the rise, companies across industries are bracing for a turbulent 2025.

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Adam Neumann, best known for co-founding and leading WeWork, has made a dramatic return to the startup world with Flow, a tech-driven residential real estate company that just raised over $100 million in Series B funding. The round, backed again by Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), values the company at approximately $2.5 billion.

Flow aims to revolutionize how people live by blending technology, design, hospitality, and community into a single, vertically integrated platform. Neumann described Flow’s mission as “rethinking residential real estate from the ground up” to help residents connect with their communities and live more fulfilled lives.

Andreessen Horowitz, which previously invested $350 million in Flow in 2022, continues to show faith in Neumann’s vision despite past controversies. Their renewed commitment signals strong investor confidence in Flow’s innovative direction and market potential.

Flow goes beyond smart homes—its platform aspires to manage entire buildings and districts with minimal human involvement, integrating AI and digital infrastructure for seamless property management. In Saudi Arabia, Flow has already deployed fully integrated systems without third-party managers, demonstrating the scalability of its tech.

Flow is rapidly expanding, with teams operating in South Florida, New York, Riyadh, and Palo Alto. Its Flow House project in South Florida is reportedly one of the fastest-selling condo projects in the U.S., while new large-scale developments are also underway in the region.

The company projects it will achieve positive cash flow in 2025, setting it apart from many tech startups that still struggle with profitability. This aligns with a broader shift in the startup world toward sustainability and financial discipline.

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Safe Superintelligence (SSI), the ambitious artificial intelligence startup co-founded by former OpenAI chief scientist Ilya Sutskever, has secured $6 billion in fresh funding, propelling its valuation to an impressive $32 billion. This represents a sixfold surge in value compared to its previous funding round, according to a report.

SSI Attracts Major Backers Without a Product Launch

Despite not having a publicly released product, SSI has managed to captivate major investors such as Google and Nvidia. The startup, launched in 2023 by Sutskever alongside Apple AI veteran Daniel Gross and AI researcher Daniel Levy, remains secretive about its development efforts but is reportedly working on “unique ways” to build and scale AI models.

Sources familiar with the matter suggest that even the company’s backers have been kept largely in the dark, a move that has only intensified curiosity surrounding SSI’s approach to safe superintelligence.

A Different Approach from OpenAI

SSI differentiates itself by focusing exclusively on building a safe version of artificial superintelligence, steering clear of commercial pressures. This contrasts with OpenAI’s trajectory, which blends research with real-world product rollouts like ChatGPT.

Sutskever, who was involved in a failed attempt to remove OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in 2023, left the organization shortly thereafter on seemingly amicable terms. His vision for SSI is to climb a new technological “mountain,” hinting at a path distinct from his former projects.

Raising the Stakes in the AI Arms Race

The massive funding round underscores the relentless investor enthusiasm in the AI sector, despite increasing scrutiny around its ethical implications and feasibility. Critics argue that while narrow AI has made significant progress, the leap to safe, human-surpassing intelligence remains elusive and riddled with safety concerns.

Nonetheless, SSI’s valuation spike signals strong confidence in its long-term potential, even as it keeps its strategies under wraps.

Safe Superintelligence’s staggering $32 billion valuation proves that the race to develop superintelligent AI is accelerating, with major tech players like Google and Nvidia betting big on startups with visionary leadership. While the road to safe and general AI remains uncertain, SSI’s rise highlights how investor optimism and bold ideas continue to shape the future of artificial intelligence.

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In a major breakthrough for clean tech and sustainable innovation, Ukrainian startup SorbiForce has introduced what it claims is the world’s first fully circular and sustainable battery, built entirely from carbon, salt, water, and agricultural waste. The solution presents a safer, eco-friendlier alternative to conventional lithium-ion batteries, which often come with toxic byproducts, fire hazards, and disposal challenges.

Reimagining Energy Storage with Simplicity and Safety

SorbiForce’s new battery tech sidesteps chemical reactions in favor of three physical processes that transport electrons through an ultraporous carbon layer. Both the anode and cathode are carbon-based, making the battery entirely metal-free and nonflammable.

“What’s really interesting about our technology is that the ultraporous carbon materials actually get better as they age,” said Kevin Drolet, CMO of SorbiForce. “The battery life could be up to 30 years as long as you can add more water.”

Waste-to-Value: A Circular Approach

The company’s mission is rooted in the idea of transforming waste into value. With over 95% of each battery recyclable or biodegradable, SorbiForce’s solution creates a closed-loop energy storage system—a stark contrast to the growing issue of lithium-ion waste.

Notably, the battery is so stable that, as Drolet explains, “you can cut one of SorbiForce’s cells in half and still keep the lights on”—with no risk of explosion or toxic leaching.

Scaling Up for U.S. Production

Following its acceptance into the University of Arizona Center for Innovation through the U.S. Department of State’s GIST program, SorbiForce has established a U.S. presence. It’s currently preparing pilot battery projects (60–150 kWh) for deployment in late 2025 and is seeking $5 million in seed funding.

“Compared to lithium-ion, our capex is much lower,” Drolet noted. “Our materials—salt, carbon, water—are abundant here in the U.S., lowering the cost barrier for domestic production.”

Positioning for a Safer, Smarter Battery Future

With more than 6,000 charge cycles, modular scalability, and zero risk of fire or explosion, SorbiForce batteries could become a go-to solution for residential, commercial, and off-grid energy storage. As the push for localized, safe, and sustainable energy grows, the startup is well-positioned to lead the charge—literally.

SorbiForce’s innovation signals a potential paradigm shift in the energy storage industry—one where batteries are safe, sustainable, scalable, and circular. As the startup gears up for pilot deployment and fundraising, it reflects a broader movement toward technologies that don’t just store energy—but do it responsibly.

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In a bold move to offset its rising emissions, Microsoft has signed a 12-year agreement with CO280, a Vancouver-based startup, to capture and store carbon emissions from a U.S. pulp and paper mill. The deal will see Microsoft finance the removal of 3.685 million metric tons of carbon dioxide, one of the largest carbon removal commitments to date in the tech industry.

A Strategic Push Toward Carbon Negativity

While Microsoft aims to become carbon negative by 2030, its emissions have continued to climb due to the high energy demands of artificial intelligence and the expansion of data centers. The agreement with CO280 is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to counterbalance those emissions through scalable, high-impact carbon capture technologies.

Brian Marrs, Microsoft’s senior director of energy and carbon removal, emphasized the importance of integrating carbon removal into existing industries:

“The CO280 strategy of adding carbon removal to existing paper mills is an efficient way to quickly scale carbon removal and bolster investment and jobs in timberland communities across the United States.”

How It Works: Retrofitting with Carbon Capture

The project involves retrofitting a pulp and paper mill with carbon capture technology developed by SLB Capturi, which will extract carbon dioxide from the mill’s boiler emissions. Once captured, the carbon will be permanently stored underground in geological formations, ensuring long-term climate benefits.

Though the exact location and financial details of the deal remain undisclosed, the scale of the agreement positions it as a transformative step in industrial decarbonization.

CO280’s Role in Scaling Carbon Removal

CO280 specializes in large-scale carbon removal infrastructure, with over 10 active projects and plans to complete at least half by 2030. This deal with Microsoft marks a significant milestone in its mission to integrate carbon capture into traditional industrial operations.

Jonathan Rhone, CO280’s co-founder and CEO, hailed the agreement as pivotal:

“The agreement with Microsoft is a significant milestone for CO280 and the carbon dioxide removal market.”

Microsoft’s Growing Carbon Removal Portfolio

Microsoft has rapidly emerged as a global leader in carbon removal investments. In 2023, the company purchased 80% of the world’s high-durability carbon removal credits, totaling 5 million metric tons. It has funded various U.S. and international projects, including

  • Ebb Carbon for removing 350,000 metric tons of CO₂ from seawater.
  • Occidental Petroleum subsidiary for capturing 500,000 metric tons in Texas.
  • Partnerships in Norway and Denmark to remove over 4.3 million metric tons.

Additionally, Microsoft has been working with Carbon Direct to establish science-based standards for verifying marine-based carbon dioxide removal, signaling its commitment to credible and impactful climate solutions.

As pressure mounts on tech companies to align with climate goals, Microsoft’s latest move with CO280 could become a model for future industry collaborations. By targeting high-emission industrial sectors like pulp and paper and combining them with cutting-edge capture technology, Microsoft is not just offsetting emissions—it’s reshaping the path to a more sustainable industrial future.

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Gold prices soared to record highs, surpassing the key $3,200 mark on Friday as mounting economic uncertainty, a weakening U.S. dollar, and escalating trade tensions reignited demand for safe-haven assets.

Gold Prices Hit Historic Levels

  • Spot gold jumped over 1% to $3,214.92/oz by 0801 GMT, after reaching an all-time high of $3,219.84/oz earlier in the session.
  • U.S. gold futures rose nearly 2% to $3,233.80/oz.
  • Gold is now up more than 5% this week and 21% year-to-date, continuing its powerful rally.

Why the Surge? Economic Worries & Trade Turmoil

According to Alexander Zumpfe, a precious metals trader at Heraeus Metals Germany:

“Recession risks are mounting, bond yields are soaring, and the U.S. dollar continues to weaken – all factors reinforcing gold’s role as a crisis hedge and inflation shield.”

Adding to investor anxiety, U.S. President Donald Trump intensified tariffs on Chinese goods despite briefly pausing reciprocal tariffs on other nations. The ongoing trade war and unpredictable policy shifts have spooked markets and heightened global economic risk.

Dollar Weakness Adds Fuel to Gold Rally

The U.S. dollar index fell to a decade low, making dollar-denominated gold more attractive to foreign buyers. Meanwhile, global equities slipped, reflecting broader investor unease.

The drop in U.S. consumer prices in March and anticipation of lower producer price data added to speculation that the Federal Reserve may resume rate cuts, with traders betting on a full 1% reduction by the end of 2025.

Gold May Climb Even Higher

Analysts see more room for upside. UBS analyst Giovanni Staunovo said:

“We believe gold has further to run — in the upside case, we target USD 3,400–3,500/oz over the months ahead.”

Supportive factors include:

  • Rising central bank demand
  • Increased flows into gold-backed ETFs
  • Ongoing macro uncertainty

Other Precious Metals Also Gain

  • Silver rose 0.4% to $31.31/oz
  • Platinum climbed 0.7% to $944.35/oz
  • Palladium surged 1.9% to $925.43/oz

As global financial stress intensifies, investors are seeking safety in gold. With central banks possibly shifting toward rate cuts and continued geopolitical instability, gold’s momentum looks set to continue — possibly breaking into new territory beyond $3,400/oz in the near term.

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Walmart is proving its resilience once again — this time by seizing opportunity amid global trade upheaval. As the U.S. imposes sweeping new tariffs under President Donald Trump’s latest trade policy, Walmart is adapting its strategy to remain competitive and potentially expand its market share.

On Wednesday, Walmart announced it would pull its financial guidance for the current quarter due to uncertainty surrounding the impact of 10% tariffs on goods from countries like China, Vietnam, and others. China, notably, will face even steeper tariffs, with rates jumping to 125%.

Despite this unpredictability, Walmart remains confident. The retail giant reaffirmed its full-year profit and revenue outlook, expecting annual sales to grow by up to 4%.

The reason for the cautious near-term guidance? Flexibility. Walmart’s Chief Financial Officer, John David Rainey, explained the company is leaving room to invest in price reductions to stay competitive as tariffs take effect. “We see opportunities to accelerate share gains while maintaining flexibility to invest in price,” he said.

Walmart’s stock responded positively, climbing 3% in early trading Wednesday, a signal that investors trust the company’s ability to outperform in a volatile retail landscape.

Analysts agree. With unmatched scale, a diverse supplier network, and strong tech and logistics capabilities, Walmart is in a prime position to weather the tariff storm. “Walmart is leaning into its scale advantage, tech capabilities, and supply chain prowess to lead at a time of heightened uncertainty,” noted Greg Melich of Evercore ISI.

While no retailer is completely insulated from trade-related headwinds, Walmart appears better prepared than most. Experts believe its ability to manage costs and maintain low prices could allow it to capture market share from less nimble competitors during this period of economic and geopolitical uncertainty.

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