As Intel continues to struggle with its turnaround, at least one possibility is off the table, with the company legally prohibited from selling its foundry business.
Intel has been working to turn around its fortunes under CEO Pat Gelsinger, but has been facing ongoing challenges. Rumors even surfaced that Qualcomm was interested in buying the company, a possibility Intel leadership was reportedly open to if it helped saved the company. Although Qualcomm has reportedly decided not to pursue a full takeover, there’s still talk that it may purchase some portion of Intel.
According to an SEC filing, however, Intel may have limited options for selling off parts of its business, with the company unable to sell its foundry business because it received funds from the CHIPS Act.
The Direct Funding Agreement contains restrictions on certain “change of control” transactions: (i) third party acquisition of 35% or more of the ownership of or voting rights with respect to Intel or otherwise acquiring control of Intel; (ii) Intel ceasing to own at least 50.1% of the ownership of or voting rights with respect to Intel Foundry if separated into a new legal entity (“Intel Foundry Corporation”) so long as Intel Foundry Corporation remains a private company; (iii) if Intel Foundry Corporation becomes a public company, third party acquisition of 35% or more of the ownership of or voting rights with respect to Intel Foundry Corporation at any time Intel is not its largest shareholder; (iv) Intel ceasing to have control of Intel Foundry Corporation; or (v) with respect to other Recipient Parties, Intel ceasing to own at least 50.1% of the ownership of or voting rights with respect to the Recipient Party equity or voting rights or otherwise ceasing to have control of the Recipient Party. Any “change of control” transaction must satisfy certain requirements as to the nature and financial resources of the counterparty, the impact to the creditworthiness of Intel and Intel Foundry Corporation, continued wafer purchases by Intel from Intel Foundry Corporation, and continuation of the Projects, the business strategy of manufacturing leading-edge semiconductors in the U.S. and the investment in U.S. semiconductor research and development, or would require DOC consent.
As the filing shows, Intel must retain at least 50.1% of its foundry business if it remains private, but is is spun off as an independent business. Similarly, if the foundry business becomes a public company, no other company can own more than 35% of it unless Intel remains majority owner.
Needless to say, the restrictions could pose challenges for Intel’s attempts to turn around its fortunes.
In a move sure to anger developers and users, Spotify has changed the terms for its Web API, cracking down on how apps can use it.
Spotify’s Web API allows third-party apps to access Spotify and provide an alternative experience for users unhappy with the company’s default apps. Like Reddit before it, Spotify seems to be changing its stance on third-party access, making it harder for developers.
Since our last broader update on the Community platform, we continue to see new integrations made through Spotify’s APIs and SDKs. We’re excited about the continued engagement we’re seeing to learn, experiment, innovate, and deliver unique experiences with Spotify.
As we continue to review the experience provided on Spotify for Developers, we’ve decided to roll out a number of measures with the aim of creating a more secure platform.
The company makes clear that the changes impact new Web API use cases, not existing apps.
Effective today, new Web API use cases will no longer be able to access or use the following endpoints and functionality in their third-party applications. Applications with existing extended mode Web API access that were relying on these endpoints remain unaffected by this change.
Related Artists
Recommendations
Audio Features
Audio Analysis
Get Featured Playlists
Get Category’s Playlists
30-second preview URLs, in multi-get responses (SimpleTrack object)
Algorithmic and Spotify-owned editorial playlists
These changes will impact the following Web API applications:
Existing apps that are still in development mode without a pending extension request
New apps that are registered on or after today’s date
The company says “third party integrations continue to play an important role in the way users can experience the Spotify experiencing through third party apps.” Regardless of what the company says, however, the API change is not an encouraging indication of where things are going for third-party developers.
Canada’s largest new organizations have united in a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging the AI firm’s use of the companies’ journalism is “illegal.”
OpenAI, like many AI firms, has scoured the internet for content to use in training its AI models. The practice has already caused legal trouble for OpenAI, with The New York Times suing the company in late December over the use of its content.
According to Toronto.com, Canada’s largest media organizations are launching their own suit against OpenAI in a first-of-its-kind collaboration. The group includes the Toronto Star, The Canadian Press, The Globe and Mail, Metroland Media, Postmedia, and CBC.
“Journalism is in the public interest. OpenAI using other companies’ journalism for their own commercial gain is not. It’s illegal,” said a joint statement from the media organizations.
“The defendants have engaged in ongoing, deliberate, and unauthorized misappropriation of the plaintiffs’ valuable news media works. The plaintiffs bring this action to prevent and seek recompense for these unlawful activities,” said a statement of claim by the news organizations.
“To obtain the significant quantities of text data needed to develop their GPT models, OpenAI deliberately ‘scrapes’ (i.e., accesses and copies) content from the News Media Companies’ websites…. It then uses that proprietary content to develop its GPT models, without consent or authorization,” the suit continues.
AI models rely on massive amounts of data in order for training purposes, but the practice is in a legal gray area. Many critics have maintained that AI firms are rushing to scoop up as much data as they can and make their AI models as useful and indispensable as possible, so that by the time the law catches up and address the gray area, it will be too late unwind what has been done. What’s more, if the AI models gain enough widespread use, the law could conclude that the ubiquitous nature of AI outweighs copyright concerns.
Only time will tell if these lawsuits are able to help establish legal precedent before that happens.
In a landmark decision, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit has overturned the Treasury Department’s sanctions against Tornado Cash, a cryptocurrency mixer accused of facilitating money laundering for cybercriminals, including North Korea’s Lazarus Group. The ruling marks a significant victory for digital privacy advocates and the open-source software community.
Background: The Treasury’s Sanctions
In August 2022, the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned Tornado Cash, alleging it had laundered over $7 billion in virtual currencies for malicious actors. The sanctions prohibited U.S. persons from engaging with Tornado Cash and added its associated smart contracts to the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list. This action effectively banned any interaction with the platform’s open-source code.
The Legal Challenge
Following the sanctions, six users of Tornado Cash, supported by cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase, filed a lawsuit challenging OFAC’s authority to sanction open-source software. They argued that the immutable smart contracts of Tornado Cash could not be considered “property” subject to sanctions under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
The Court’s Ruling
On November 26, 2024, a three-judge panel of the Fifth Circuit Court sided with the plaintiffs. The court held that Tornado Cash’s immutable smart contracts are not “property” of any foreign national or entity and, therefore, cannot be blocked under IEEPA. The judges concluded that “OFAC overstepped its congressionally defined authority.”
Implications for Open-Source Software
This decision has profound implications for the open-source community. By ruling that immutable smart contracts are not subject to sanctions, the court has reinforced the principle that open-source code, which operates autonomously without human intervention, cannot be owned or controlled. This distinction is crucial for developers and users who rely on decentralized platforms to ensure privacy and security.
Industry Reactions
The ruling has been hailed as a significant victory for digital privacy and innovation. Paul Grewal, Chief Legal Officer of Coinbase, described the decision as “a historic win for crypto and all who care about defending liberty.” He emphasized that blocking open-source technology entirely because a small portion of users are bad actors is not what Congress authorized.
Future Considerations
While the court’s decision limits OFAC’s authority to sanction open-source software, it does not address the broader issue of illicit use of such platforms. The ruling suggests that it is the role of Congress to update existing laws to address the challenges posed by emerging technologies. As the judges noted, “Mending a statute’s blind spots or smoothing its disruptive effects falls outside our lane.”
Conclusion
The Fifth Circuit’s reversal of sanctions against Tornado Cash underscores the importance of distinguishing between malicious actors and the tools they misuse. By protecting the autonomy of open-source software, the court has affirmed the rights of developers and users to innovate without undue governmental interference. This decision sets a precedent that could influence future regulatory approaches to decentralized technologies.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, this ruling serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between national security interests and the preservation of individual freedoms in the digital age.
For a browser users can download for free, Google Chrome could have a shocking price tag if the judge forces a sale, fetching a whopping $20 billion.
Google Chrome is the world’s leading web browser, with a lion’s share of the market. Google recently lost its antitrust case, in which the court ruled the company has an illegal monopoly over the search market. As a result, the DOJ has proposed remedial measures, not the least of which is forcing the company to sell Chrome.
According to Bloomberg, a forced sale of Chrome could be worth some $20 billion, illustrating just how valuable the web browser is despite being available to users for free.
It’s not surprising the DOJ want’s Google to sell Chrome. As we have pointed out here at WPN, Google operating the dominant search engine, the leading ad market, and the most popular web browser, is like relying on burglars to provide a home security system. There’s absolutely no incentive to make that security system as safe and robust as possible.
Similarly, given that Google makes the bulk of its money from advertising and consumer data, trusting the company to provide a privacy-oriented experience with its Chrome web browser is an unreasonable expectation. In fact, the company has already been in trouble multiple times for not providing the level of privacy users expects, such as when Incognito mode continued to collect data on users’ browsing habits.
Unfortunately, while forcing Google to sell Chrome is one of the most logical remedies, it’s also comes with a number of potential complications.
Mozilla. Mozilla makes Firefox, the leading competitor to Chrome. Unfortunately, since it’s difficult to make money making a web browser, Mozilla relies on Google for the bulk of its income, to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars per year. Google pays Mozilla largely to help maintain a “diverse” browser ecosystem, as the company would face even greater regulatory scrutiny if its main competition went under. If Google is forced to sell Chrome, there will be little incentive for the company to continue paying Mozilla, leaving the independent browser maker looking for a way to make up for the lost income.
It’s unclear what, if any, company would be willing or able to take over Chrome development. As Mozilla is well aware, it’s difficult to make money off of a web browser unless the browser maker is willing to profit of of its users’ data. Any company that purchases Chrome, however, would not have Google’s search engine or ad network to leverage the web browser in the same way Google has been able to.
However the case against Google proceeds, it will no doubt have a significant impact on the web browser market, potentially shaking it up more that at any time since Internet Explorer took the top spot from Netscape Navigator.
Zello, the push-to-talk service, is telling customers to reset their passwords in what appears to be another breach of the company.
According to BleepingComputer, Zello has sent a notification to users telling them they need to reset their passwords if they created their account prior to November 2nd, 2024. The notification doesn’t give any additional detail, other than to say the user should change their password on any online service on which they use the same password as on Zello.
Below is a copy of the notification users are receiving:
“Zello Security Notice – As a precaution, we are asking that you reset your Zelle app password for any account created before November 2nd, 2024,” reads the warning.
“We also recommend that you change your passwords for any other online services where you may have used the same password.”
While the company is not explicitly saying their systems were breached, but the fact that Zello is recommending users change their password on any service using the same password is a good indication that’s exactly what happened, or this is a case of credential stuffing at the least.
As BleepingComputer highlights, Zello suffered a previous data breach in 2020, so a breach of the company’s systems would not be unheard of.
In a game-changing move for mobile connectivity, the FCC has given the go-ahead for SpaceX’s Starlink and T-Mobile to deliver direct-to-cellular service across the U.S. The partnership promises to redefine what “always connected” means, eliminating dead zones by enabling everyday smartphones to link directly to satellites without any hardware upgrades.
No Dead Zones, No Problem
Mobile users have long grappled with the frustration of losing service in remote areas, whether it’s during a mountain hike, a road trip through rural regions, or a fishing expedition miles offshore. T-Mobile’s collaboration with SpaceX is set to solve this once and for all. By leveraging Starlink’s advanced satellite network, unmodified smartphones will be able to communicate directly with satellites in orbit, filling the gaps where traditional cell towers can’t reach.
The FCC’s Stamp of Approval
The FCC’s approval highlights the critical role this technology could play in expanding coverage and enhancing public safety. Imagine being stranded in a remote location without cell service—this direct-to-cell solution could allow users to send a text or call for help, regardless of their proximity to a tower. It’s a leap forward not just for convenience but for emergency response as well.
How It Works
The service will roll out in stages, starting with text and MMS messaging. Voice and data are set to follow as the technology matures. T-Mobile plans to utilize its mid-band PCS spectrum, ensuring that customers won’t need to upgrade their devices to tap into the service. The beauty of this partnership lies in its simplicity: no new phones, no added hardware—just better coverage.
Challenges on the Horizon
While the FCC’s green light is a significant milestone, there are still hurdles to clear. For one, the technical complexities of enabling real-time voice and video calls via satellite remain a work in progress. Additionally, some competitors have raised concerns about potential interference with existing cellular networks, which regulators will need to address carefully.
But these challenges are unlikely to dampen the momentum. With an ambitious roadmap and a shared commitment to innovation, T-Mobile and SpaceX are well-positioned to navigate these obstacles and bring their vision to life.
The Bigger Picture
This partnership isn’t happening in a vacuum. The race to integrate satellite and terrestrial networks is heating up, with companies like AST SpaceMobile and Apple exploring similar capabilities. Starlink and T-Mobile, however, may have an edge thanks to their combined resources and proven track records in delivering scalable solutions.
The implications stretch far beyond U.S. borders. If successful, this technology could be exported globally, extending connectivity to the 2.5 billion people who currently lack reliable mobile service. It’s not just about convenience—it’s about leveling the playing field for communication access.
The Future of Connectivity
With the FCC’s blessing, T-Mobile and SpaceX are on track to reshape the mobile landscape. Whether it’s texting from the wilderness or accessing critical services during emergencies, this technology has the potential to bring us closer together—literally.
The days of “no service” may finally be numbered. For T-Mobile and SpaceX, it’s not just a win for connectivity—it’s a win for everyone.
There is something to be said for the good hearted, focused, and intentional nature of individuals and organizations that come together to help change the world for the good.
And that’s very much what was felt in the air at the American Friends of Sheba USA / ARC US event at the Liberty Science Center held November 21, 2025 in Jersey City, NJ.
A talented group of hospital systems, universities, government officials, binational governmental fund, philanthropic donors, innovation ecosystems, and startups galore were in full effect at this inspiring meeting of the minds, which I was happy to be a part of.
Notably, ARC US is planning to open an Innovation Facility at Liberty Science Center’s SciTech Scity. The grand opening is expected during 2026.
Programming Was a Hit
The run of show was an energy packed list of speakers, including:
Sam Glassenberg taught us about the power of video games and neuroscience in medical training
I had an opportunity to interview a number of the prominent organizers and supporters within the ARC ecosystem and adjacent partners. Here’s what they had to say about the event:
“ARC is the innovation platform of Sheba Medical Center and we are very proud to build here in New Jersey an innovation and simulation lab for the future of health and also a soft landing bed for start-up companies. We had a great reception and exhibition here in New Jersey November 21st with almost 10 start-ups coming from Israel but also some of them are already based in the US with exciting technologies. Few of them started to work here with hospitals.
We were able to introduce Bio-beat which has wearable technology to RWJ Barnabas Health which are very focused on health equity and they are going to start pilots very soon here in New Jersey and then other companies have other opportunities for example with our partners at Fairleigh Dickinson University. They are now working with Soapy and they are looking to also partner with OtherReality, with their emphaty technology for medical staff and other technologies coming out from Sheba.
So many interesting things are coming from Israel and other places and very exciting technologies coming to New Jersey with great collaboration with the local institutes here.”
“It’s a great night to be able to come beside a whole host of others who are really leading the charge in health care innovation. We’re excited about the opportunity to educate tomorrow’s health care practitioners and thinking about the future of health from a standpoint of higher education’s role. We’re really excited about the partnership with Sheba Medical, with ARC, and with all of those here tonight who we believe we can work with to help enhance the overall education of our students and overall enhance the health care delivery of our product in the United States and beyond.”
“Funding projects between U.S. and Israeli companies with several projects with Sheba and the companies coming out of Sheba and hope to see more that are generated through the ARC program here at Liberty Science Center together with stakeholders here in New Jersey, hospital systems, companies and others.”
Andrea Yonah, Director, U.S. East Coast/Midwest at U.S.-Israel Binational Industrial R&D (BIRD) Foundation
“I came here because I’m part of the ARC community. It is a great place for startups to showcase our products in the New Jersey community.”
“It’s inspiring to witness the incredible healthcare innovation emerging from Israeli companies, and equally exciting to see the supportive infrastructure that’s developing to help these companies succeed in the US. I look forward to seeing how the collaboration between Sheba Medical Center and the coming SciTech Scity will further foster the growth of Israeli companies entering the US and their impact on the global stage.”
tonight,ted my own legal consulting firm in the data privacy world and coming tonight was very eye-opening to see how the medical field and also the data field is so interwoven with each other but the technologies and AI and machine learning has been such an integral part of healthcare and it is constantly evolving and constantly changing and I think that the event tonight has been very eye-opening for people that are not in the medical field like me.”
Doreen Shaulpour, Board of the Young Leadership for the American Friends of Sheba / Data Privacy Cybersecurity Attorney
Bringing it all Together
Good times were had by all. I look forward to seeing ARC USA continue to grow and thrive as it continues to evolve in Jersey City. Stay tuned for further developments.
A bipartisan coalition of U.S. senators is expressing concern over the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) expanding use of facial recognition technology at airports nationwide.
In a detailed letter addressed to Department of Homeland Security Inspector General Joseph Cuffari, the senators urge a comprehensive review of the TSA’s deployment of this technology, highlighting potential issues related to accuracy, privacy, and civil liberties.
The TSA has been progressively implementing facial recognition systems to verify passenger identities at security checkpoints. While the agency asserts that participation is voluntary, reports indicate that passengers often find it challenging to opt out, facing unclear signage and inconsistent guidance from Transportation Security Officers (TSOs). The senators’ letter emphasizes that the TSA’s communication regarding the optional nature of facial scans is insufficient, leading to confusion and potential coercion among travelers.
Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), a leading voice in this initiative, experienced firsthand the pressure some travelers are subjected to by TSA agents. In mid-2023, Senator Merkley was traveling and asked to op out of facial recognition, only to be pressured by agents who claimed opting out would cause a significant delay. the senator insisted on his rights, leading to a traditional identity check. Contrary to the agents’ claims, opting out of facial recognition scanning did not lead to any additional delays.
Dubious Effectiveness
The letter also questions the effectiveness and necessity of facial recognition technology in enhancing airport security. The senators point out that the TSA already employs Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) devices capable of detecting fraudulent identification documents without relying on biometric data. They argue that the TSA has not provided compelling evidence demonstrating that facial recognition offers significant advantages over existing methods.
Accuracy issues are another focal point of concern. The senators cite reports indicating a 3% false negative rate in identity verification using facial recognition, which could translate to upwards of 68,000 discrepancies daily if applied nationally. Such a high error rate not only undermines the technology’s reliability but also poses risks of misidentification and unwarranted scrutiny of innocent travelers.
Privacy advocates have long warned about the potential for biometric data to be misused or inadequately protected. The senators’ letter underscores the need for stringent safeguards to prevent unauthorized access and misuse of facial recognition data. They call for a thorough evaluation of the TSA’s data collection, storage, and deletion practices to ensure compliance with privacy standards and to protect civil liberties.
In response to these concerns, the senators have requested that the Inspector General’s office conduct a comprehensive assessment of the TSA’s facial recognition program. They seek evaluations of the technology’s effectiveness in identifying individuals using disguises or false identification, its impact on passenger screening times, and its success in preventing individuals on no-fly lists from boarding aircraft. Additionally, they request an analysis of any demographic disparities in the technology’s accuracy and an evaluation of the TSA’s communication strategies regarding passengers’ rights to opt out.
TSA’s Grand Plan
TSA has made no secret of its plans to implement biometric scanning everywhere, as the letter makes clear.
In April 2023, TSA Administrator Pekoske admitted at the South by Southwest Conference that “we will get to the point where we will require biometrics across the board.” If that happens, this program could become one of the largest federal surveillance databases overnight without authorization from Congress.
The TSA maintains that facial recognition technology enhances security and efficiency at airports. However, the growing bipartisan scrutiny reflects a broader debate over the balance between technological advancements in security and the preservation of individual rights and freedoms. As the TSA continues to expand its facial recognition program, the outcome of this inquiry could significantly influence the future of biometric surveillance in the United States.
This development aligns with previous reports highlighting the TSA’s pushback against legislative efforts to formalize opt-out options for travelers and its plans to expand facial recognition across airports. The senators’ initiative represents a critical step toward ensuring that advancements in security technology do not come at the expense of privacy and civil liberties.
The world of personal computing is on the verge of a significant transformation, one driven by artificial intelligence (AI) technology. As tech companies race to capture the opportunity, HP Inc. has emerged as a key player with its own vision for how AI will reshape the PC market.
Recently, Enrique Lores, CEO of HP Inc., sat down with CNBC’s Jim Cramer on “Mad Money” to discuss the company’s outlook, quarterly results, and, most importantly, the advent of the AI PC. Lores emphasized the value that these new machines will bring to both enterprise and consumer markets.
Strategic Shift Toward AI-Driven PCs
As Lores detailed in his interview, the company’s focus on AI PCs is part of a deliberate strategy to diversify its offerings and capture emerging opportunities in computing. This effort marks a significant shift away from simply upgrading PC hardware towards integrating next-generation technologies. “We have been very consistent in what we have been saying about AI PCs,” Lores told Cramer. “They were going to have a small impact in ’24, more impact in ’25, and an even greater impact in ’26.” According to Lores, the company is betting on a gradual, phased adoption curve, with the commercial sector leading the way in adoption.
Unlike other technologies that typically find their first foothold among consumer audiences, the AI PC market will begin with enterprise users. “The penetration is going to start from the commercial side,” Lores explained. He believes this unique adoption path necessitates a higher level of education and marketing effort, with HP and its partners leading campaigns to showcase what these PCs can accomplish. “When we demonstrate what customers will be able to do, they really see the value, and they realize that this is the type of product that they want to have for their teams,” he added.
The Power of an AI-Driven Ecosystem
AI PCs differ from traditional devices because they are not just about faster processors or sharper displays—they offer entirely new forms of capability. As Lores highlighted, the machines will feature onboard AI that can handle tasks locally without offloading processing to the cloud, thanks to powerful local Machine Processing Units (MPUs). “We have started to launch some of the next-generation AI PCs, with powerful MPUs where you can run AI locally,” Lores said, adding that the initial feedback has been encouraging.
However, the company acknowledges that the AI PC revolution will not happen overnight. Lores compared the adoption path of AI PCs to the initial uptake of cloud computing. “We don’t think that we are talking about cloud or AI PCs—both things are going to coexist. There are activities that make sense to do at the edge, and make AI PCs suitable for that,” Lores said. He underscored that HP aims to create a balanced solution where both local AI processing and cloud capabilities can be leveraged to maximize productivity.
Productivity Gains and the Impact of AI PCs
Perhaps the most compelling argument for AI PCs is their ability to boost productivity, both for individuals and teams. The potential for applications that can analyze and respond in real-time is enormous. “We showed some of it when you were here,” Lores reminded Cramer, referring to a demo of their AI-driven features, “and we continue to be very confident in, really, the impact and the value that this category is going to have for us in the future.”
Unlike a standard PC, AI PCs can automate early-stage tasks like sifting through emails, capturing insights from video calls, and analyzing data on-the-fly—saving workers precious time. Lores noted that AI PCs have already begun to attract interest from major corporations. “We have large customers that have decided to adopt AI PCs as the PC for their full workforce,” Lores said. However, he noted that the rollout of these technologies will take time, primarily because applications need to be fully developed to harness these new capabilities effectively.
While HP’s vision has been optimistic, some other prominent figures in the tech world have been more skeptical about the value added by AI-driven features. Jim Cramer brought up Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff’s comments that AI copilot technologies, which assist users in performing tasks, have not added significant value yet. In response, Lores countered, “We have demonstrated what AI PCs can do. The value is there from a productivity perspective.”
Commercial Opportunities and Long-Term Growth
HP is optimistic about the long-term prospects of AI PCs, but Lores was also careful to temper expectations about the immediate impact. “It’s not necessarily a lower ramp, it’s a longer ramp,” he said, echoing a sentiment that HP expects steady, rather than explosive, growth in this category. “The more applications that will be available, the bigger the impact that AI PCs are going to have.”
When questioned about market positioning and the comparability of AI PCs to existing premium computing products, Lores stated, “It’s not only going to be about the performance of the PCs, it’s going to be about the capabilities and new metrics that customers are going to be able to do.” This is where AI becomes a differentiator—not in raw speed alone, but in how effectively it can manage processes and assist in decision-making.
The initial adopters of AI PCs are likely to be organizations looking for these competitive edges—boosted employee productivity, intelligent automation, and efficient workflows. This focus on the commercial side makes sense given the premium price tag of the first wave of AI PCs, as well as their ability to streamline operations in a way that adds direct business value.
Adapting Supply Chains Amid Global Challenges
Beyond AI PCs, Lores also discussed how HP is adapting to other challenges, including geopolitical tensions and tariff concerns, which could affect the company’s production. “China continues to be a big part of our manufacturing footprint, but we have been diversifying fairly aggressively the last three years because we realized that we needed to build a more resilient supply chain,” Lores explained. He emphasized that HP’s manufacturing is now more balanced across different geographies, making it better prepared for potential tariff changes. “If tariffs do happen, we will adjust,” he assured.
Looking Ahead: AI PCs as Part of a Broader Vision
HP’s cautious but confident approach to AI PCs reflects its broader strategy of blending innovation with practical business planning. The company is clearly positioning itself not just as a hardware manufacturer but as a provider of advanced solutions that can transform the way people work. As the PC market continues to evolve, HP’s efforts to integrate AI deeply into its products may well define its future.
The promise of AI PCs goes beyond the technology itself; it represents a shift in how we think about computing. By creating a machine that is not just a device but an intelligent partner, HP aims to redefine what a personal computer can be. “The value is there, from a productivity perspective,” Lores insisted, and while it may take some time to see widespread adoption, HP is clearly betting that AI PCs are the future of work.
In a rapidly changing consumer ecosystem, Unilever is refocusing its strategic lens, placing greater emphasis on brand scalability, portfolio realignment, and premiumization. Since stepping into the role of CEO in mid-2023, Hein Schumacher has undertaken the monumental task of steering Unilever into a more agile and growth-oriented direction, with a sharper focus on what makes the company successful: scaling fewer but stronger brands, aligning them with market trends, and fostering operational simplicity.
“We want to transform Unilever into a higher growth, simpler business,” Schumacher told Bloomberg’s Francine Lacqua in a recent interview. “It’s about having scalable brands that we can innovate behind with multi-year, significant programs. That’s how we leverage our scale for the better.”
Listen to our chat on Unilever’s brand realignment strategy to drive growth!
The Portfolio Review: A New Approach to Brand Management
One of the major components of Unilever’s brand strategy under Schumacher’s leadership has been a comprehensive portfolio review, completed in early 2024 alongside the company’s new leadership team. This review was pivotal in establishing what would be retained, what would be spun off, and which brands had the best potential for growth.
The decision to divest certain parts of the business, such as Dollar Shave Club and other non-core brands, was not made lightly. Schumacher explained that the overarching focus is on fostering scalable brands—brands that can grow through multi-channel innovation and that benefit from global reach. “For instance, Dove, which is our biggest brand at close to 7 billion euros, has been growing in double digits this year,” he shared. “Bigger brands allow us to do bigger things—more impactful marketing, better use of R&D, and quicker, more robust innovation.”
Scaling Through Focused Investments
Unilever’s new approach is rooted in targeted investment. Instead of spreading resources thin across numerous brands, the company aims to concentrate investment in fewer but higher-impact areas. The food division is a prime example of this shift. Unilever is focusing on condiments and cooking aids—led by two powerhouse brands, Hellmann’s and Knorr. “The idea is to move from a scattered portfolio to one that’s more coherent, with fewer brands that have a larger footprint,” Schumacher explained. “Condiments and cooking aids are categories where we see real opportunities to grow globally.”
Knorr, a 5 billion euro brand, and Hellmann’s, which holds a leading position in condiments, represent Unilever’s attempt to organize its portfolio along two high-growth pillars: scalability and global relevance. By doing so, Schumacher believes Unilever can better target resources, achieve market dominance in key verticals, and ensure that investments lead to long-term, sustainable growth.
Premiumization and Global Reach
Premiumization is another vital facet of Schumacher’s brand realignment strategy. As global consumer tastes evolve, there is growing demand for premium products—particularly in the health, beauty, and wellness categories. Unilever’s Prestige Beauty division has seen acquisitions of brands like Dermalogica and Hourglass in recent years, and Schumacher aims to internationalize these acquisitions. “We have acquired digitally native brands in the U.S., and now we’re scaling them internationally, bringing them to Europe, China, and India,” he said.
In this reshaped portfolio, premiumization isn’t just about acquiring high-value brands but ensuring these products are positioned appropriately for growth across multiple geographies. The expansion into markets like China and India signifies a commitment to tapping into regions with burgeoning middle classes where premium consumption is rising.
Divestments: Streamlining to Scale
To facilitate this more concentrated and growth-centric approach, Schumacher has led Unilever through a series of divestitures designed to sharpen its focus. Dollar Shave Club, water and air purification brands, and a handful of regional, smaller brands were all divested under Schumacher’s tenure. The goal was not merely to shed underperforming units but to make sure that Unilever’s portfolio was capable of benefiting from the company’s strengths—its international footprint, R&D prowess, and the ability to innovate at scale.
“We are not in a fire sale,” Schumacher emphasized, indicating a deliberate and considered approach to portfolio management. “We’re looking to evolve into those higher growth areas with scalable brands—it’s not about offloading assets at any cost but making strategic decisions about where Unilever can create value and where others might be better owners.”
Navigating Regional Market Dynamics
As part of his strategic transformation, Schumacher has also considered regional market dynamics to maximize brand potential. India stands out as a significant growth market where Unilever has a strong footprint, participating in 85% of households. Schumacher highlighted that mid-term opportunities in India—especially in hair care and hygiene—are vast due to rising GDP and increased disposable income. “India is arguably our number one opportunity globally,” Schumacher stated. “We are four to five times bigger than our closest competitor in hair care and play across all price tiers.”
While success in India offers opportunities, markets like Indonesia have proven more challenging. Schumacher openly admitted that Unilever was caught off guard by local competitors offering lower-priced alternatives and that there was a need for a “significant reset” to regain traction. This honesty reflects the pragmatism underpinning Schumacher’s strategy—acknowledging areas for improvement while doubling down on markets where Unilever is positioned for success.
Towards a More Simplified and Agile Unilever
At the core of Unilever’s shifting brand strategy is an aspiration for simplicity and agility. With the demerger of its ice cream business on the horizon, the company is transitioning into a leaner, more focused organization. Schumacher’s goal is to create a “lighter Unilever” that moves away from legacy structures and embraces flexibility, both in its operational footprint and its brand portfolio.
Schumacher’s belief is that Unilever can harness its core strengths—brand loyalty, scale, and R&D—to unlock new growth, but only by focusing where it truly matters. “It’s about fueling the right ideas, focusing on fewer but bigger brands, and getting them to scale globally,” he said.
This emphasis on operational simplicity also extends to organizational restructuring. In March 2024, Unilever announced a major restructuring program that would cut approximately 7,500 roles. The intention, according to Schumacher, is to ensure that the organization is aligned with a post-ice cream business model, while enhancing efficiency and agility to respond to market dynamics more effectively.
Looking Ahead: A Clear Vision
The strategy that Schumacher has laid out is about more than just cost-cutting or divestitures. It is about transforming Unilever into a company that is leaner, more focused, and more capable of responding to consumer needs on a global scale. By doubling down on high-growth verticals, concentrating resources on fewer, scalable brands, and ensuring agility within its operations, Unilever is positioning itself to thrive in a complex and evolving global market.
“We are putting our foot on the gas,” Schumacher said. “Our purpose is to brighten everyday life for all—making lives a bit better, a bit more convenient, and a bit more sustainable. That’s what excites me, and that’s the Unilever we are building.”
This transformation will take time, but Schumacher remains confident. By maintaining a steady focus on brand strength, operational agility, and premiumization, Unilever aims to navigate the headwinds of today while preparing for a stronger, more streamlined tomorrow.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) is cracking down on the Drug Enforcement Agency’s (DEA) practice of randomly searching passengers and seizing their cash at airports.
The DEA’s activities were put in the spotlight, thanks to an investigation by Atlanta News First. The investigation found that “drug agents have been seizing anything over $5,000 if airline passengers can’t prove — on the spot — that their own money didn’t come from drug trafficking. The government seizes the cash when no drugs are found, without arresting the traveler or charging them with a crime, and the DEA gets to keep the money it seizes.”
In the wake of the investigation, the DOJ Office of the Inspector General (OIG) investigated the allegations and uncovered disturbing issues.
In response to various recent allegations, and to follow up on our 2015 cold consent encounters report, earlier this year the OIG initiated an evaluation of the interdiction activities of the DEA at transportation centers, including its use of seizures and consensual encounters, as well as the data collection and tracking of such activities. The OIG’s current oversight work, including the evaluation and a separate ongoing investigation, has recently identified several serious concerns about the DEA’s interdiction activities in transportation settings.
Among the most disturbing things the OIG discovered is that one DEA office was paying an airline as a confidential source (CS), giving them a percentage of cash seized as a result of tips.
First, during the investigation, we learned of a DEA office that has a Limited Use CS, who is an employee of a commercial airline, and has for several years been paying the CS a percentage of forfeited cash seized by the DEA office from passengers at the local airport when the seizure resulted from information the CS had provided to the DEA. Specifically, we learned that for the past several years this CS has sent the DEA office information from the airline’s reservation system identifying passengers who purchased tickets to certain U.S. cities within 48 hours of the travel so that the DEA could, among other things, approach those passengers at the airport and seek their consent to search their carry-on luggage. During consensual encounters, passengers have the right to decline to engage with the DEA SAs or TFOs or have their bag searched. If the law enforcement officer does not already possess at least a reasonable suspicion that a crime has been or is being committed, the law enforcement officer lacks the necessary legal basis to detain the passenger or their property.
To make matters worse, the DEA ignored its own guidelines allowing passengers to opt out of consensual searches.
As an example of the DEA’s use of this CS, earlier this year, in the early morning, the DEA office received from the CS a list of five such individuals traveling to a major U.S. city and commercial hub on a domestic flight, operated by the CS’s employer, that was scheduled to leave approximately 3 hours later. DEA SAs and TFOs at the local airport planned to approach the travelers whose names appeared on the list—after those travelers had passed through airport security and while they were in the process of boarding their flight—to have a consensual encounter with them. Based on the OIG’s prior work in this area, such consensual encounters may include a request that a traveler consent to a search of their belongings, if the SA or TFO thinks it warranted. Our investigators were told that, after receiving the list and prior to approaching the travelers, the DEA ran checks for prior criminal records. None of the five had a prior relevant criminal history. Thus, any consensual encounter would have been based solely on the fact that within the previous 48 hours they had purchased tickets, some of which were one way, to fly to a major U.S. city that is a significant business center. The DEA had no additional information to suggest that these five passengers might be engaged in illegal activity.
As one of the five travelers was boarding their flight, the traveler was approached by a DEA TFO, who decided to detain the traveler’s carry-on bag after the traveler did not consent to a search.5 The DEA TFO advised the traveler that he was detaining the bag, but he told the traveler that they were free to board the plane without the bag. The traveler ultimately decided to remain with the bag. Thereafter, a law enforcement drug-detection dog, according to the DEA, alerted to the bag. The DEA TFO then told the traveler that they could either consent to the search of the bag or the DEA would detain it further and seek a search warrant. The passenger eventually told the DEA that it could search the carry-on bag and signed a consent form. No cash, drugs, or other contraband was found when the DEA searched the bag, and the bag was returned to the traveler. By that time, the traveler had missed their original flight. The traveler made a video and audio recording of this encounter on a personal recording device, and an edited version of the video and audio has been made public.
DEA Created a Legal Quagmire
As a result of the DEA’s handling of the above case, the OIG found the agency had created a legal nightmare.
We believe that the information our investigation has uncovered thus far regarding the DEA’s transportation interdiction activities at this airport illustrates several potentially significant—and in many cases longstanding—systemic issues and possible legal risks. Among them are whether the DEA’s multiyear payments to a Limited Use CS could result in a finding that the CS is acting as an agent of the DEA, thereby rendering the CS a government actor for Fourth Amendment purposes. It also raises questions as to whether CSs employed by private transportation companies may be violating state law by providing passenger data to the DEA (in the absence of a subpoena) in the increasing number of states that tightly regulate business use of consumer data. Additionally, Limited Use CSs provide information to the DEA without direction about suspicious activity or behavior that could be indicative of criminal activity. This raises the question of whether DEA policy intends for the Limited Use CS category to include airline employees who provide to the DEA, with some regularity, lists of travelers who purchase tickets within 48 hours for flights to certain major metropolitan U.S. cities, without any further suspicion about those passengers. We note that it is hardly unusual for travelers, including business travelers and last-minute vacationers, to purchase tickets within 48 hours of a flight. We also believe that the DEA and the Department need to consider whether approaching airline passengers to request consent to search their carry-on bag as they are approaching the jetway to board their soon-to-be departing flight could be viewed as placing undue pressure on travelers to accede to such requests.
Further, the DEA’s failure to collect data for each consensual encounter, as required by its own policy, and its continued inability to provide us with any assessment of the success of these interdiction efforts once again raise questions about whether these transportation interdiction activities are an effective use of law enforcement resources—and leaves the DEA once again unable to provide adequate answers to those questions.
DOJ Suspends Random Consensual Searches
In response to the issues discovered by the investigation, the Deputy Attorney General has ordered the DEA to suspend random consensual searches, specifically those unconnected to an existing investigation.
Until the utility of conducting consensual encounters pursuant to the transportation interdiction facilities program is evaluated, assessed, and identified concerns are sufficiently addressed, I am directing that the DEA suspend conducting consensual encounters pursuant to the program, subject to my further review following the assessment and evaluation. Consensual encounters pursuant to the program may not be resumed absent explicit direction from the Deputy Attorney General.
Thanks to the Deputy Attorney General’s decision, law-abiding travelers can rest a little easier, knowing their hard-earned cash isn’t going to be seized at the airport without just cause.
Managing partnerships can be a complex and time-consuming process, especially as organizations scale and take on multiple partners with diverse needs. The challenge lies in ensuring consistent communication, sharing resources efficiently, and accurately tracking performance metrics. Traditional methods often result in fragmented workflows and missed opportunities for growth. This is where partner portal software comes into play, revolutionizing how organizations manage their partnerships by centralizing all key aspects of partner management.
Partner portal software acts as a centralized hub that integrates communication, resources, and performance tracking into a single, user-friendly platform. By consolidating these elements, organizations can ensure that every partner has access to the tools and information they need to succeed. Whether it’s distributing marketing materials, sharing sales leads, or resolving queries, partner portal software simplifies these processes, saving time and reducing administrative overhead. This centralized approach enhances transparency, fosters trust, and promotes accountability among partners, laying a strong foundation for successful collaborations.
A robust partner portal offers several key features that drive efficiency and productivity. One essential component is customizable dashboards, which allow partners to access real-time data relevant to their performance. These dashboards can include key metrics such as sales figures, leads generated, and progress toward goals. Another critical feature is document management, which ensures that partners have on-demand access to updated marketing collateral, product information, and training resources. Additionally, integration with customer relationship management (CRM) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems helps streamline workflows and provides partners with a seamless experience.
Partner portal software also supports streamlined collaboration by enabling direct and secure communication between the organization and its partners. Messaging features, forums, and feedback tools within the platform facilitate open dialogue, ensuring that concerns are addressed promptly and suggestions for improvement are welcomed. Many portals also include automated workflows for tasks such as lead distribution, deal registration, and approval processes, which reduces delays and minimizes the risk of human error. This functionality allows partners to focus on achieving results rather than navigating administrative hurdles.
Effective partner portal software goes beyond basic functionality by offering advanced analytics and reporting tools. These features empower organizations to measure the effectiveness of their partner programs and identify areas for improvement. By analyzing partner performance data, businesses can tailor incentives and support to maximize partner success. The platform’s ability to generate insights also helps organizations refine their strategies and make informed decisions, contributing to long-term growth and profitability.
Partner management software is a critical investment for businesses seeking to build stronger, more productive partnerships. By centralizing and automating key elements of partner management, it not only reduces complexity but also fosters a collaborative environment that drives mutual success. From providing partners with essential resources to tracking their progress and ensuring alignment with organizational goals, these platforms are instrumental in cultivating high-performing partner ecosystems.
In conclusion, partner portal software simplifies the complexities of managing partnerships by centralizing communication, resources, and performance metrics. With features like customizable dashboards, streamlined collaboration tools, and advanced analytics, these platforms enable organizations to optimize their partner relationships. By embracing partner management software, businesses can foster stronger, more effective collaborations and position themselves for sustained growth in competitive markets.
Internet service providers (ISPs) defended their customer service practices following a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) review that scrutinized the industry’s practices.
USTelecom, representing major ISPs, submitted comments emphasizing their commitment to “excellent customer service,” citing competition and innovation as the primary drivers of continuous improvement. Unfortunately, the conclusion is probably news to many of the companies’ customers.
ISP Defense: Service Excellence in a Competitive Market
In their response to the FTC, ISPs argued that the competitive broadband landscape incentivizes excellent customer service. Citing a 2020 report, USTelecom highlighted that 90% of consumers value customer service in choosing and remaining loyal to a brand. They also pointed to billions invested in infrastructure—$94.7 billion in 2023 alone—as evidence of their dedication to meeting customer needs.
One member provider reportedly implemented advanced tools to improve the customer experience, including real-time speed testing, technician tracking, and proactive satisfaction assessments. The comments also extolled artificial intelligence (AI) as a game-changing technology that can streamline interactions, reduce wait times, and address simple queries while escalating complex issues to human agents.
ISPs insist that the competitive nature of the broadband market forces them to prioritize customer satisfaction or risk losing customers to rivals. USTelecom argued against additional regulation, saying the above factors mean existing regulatory frameworks provide sufficient consumer protection..
The Consumer Perspective: A Contradictory Reality
Many ISP customers would likely dispute the companies’ claims, as ISPs consistently rank among the least popular industries in the US. Critics argue that ISPs’ monopolistic control in many regions limits meaningful competition, leaving customers with little recourse if they’re dissatisfied with service.
Common complaints include long wait times, poor communication, and unresolved technical issues. While USTelecom asserts that AI and other technological advancements improve service, customers often report frustration with automated systems that fail to resolve their concerns.
Additionally, industry claims of “highly competitive markets” clash with the reality in many rural and underserved areas, where consumers face limited options and often subpar service quality. This lack of competition undermines the assertion that ISPs are driven to improve by market pressures.
FTC Review: A Question of Accountability
The FTC’s review of customer service practices stems from widespread consumer dissatisfaction and concerns over how ISPs manage their interactions with customers. While the industry advocates for minimal regulation, critics argue that stronger oversight is needed to protect consumers and ensure accountability.
Proposals to integrate AI into customer service have sparked mixed reactions. Proponents argue it could enhance efficiency, but detractors warn it could erode personalized service, exacerbating consumer frustration. The FTC’s findings will likely influence whether more stringent rules are implemented.
Conclusion
ISPs’ claims of “excellent customer service” contrast sharply with the industry’s poor reputation among consumers. While companies highlight competition and innovation as driving forces for improvement, customer experiences often tell a different story. As the FTC evaluates the state of customer service in the broadband sector, the gap between industry claims and consumer realities remains a critical issue. Whether regulatory intervention is necessary to bridge this divide will be a focal point in the ongoing debate.
In an era when financial technology is evolving faster than ever, a few key players are at the forefront of this transformation. Among them is Knox Networks, a company that aims to reshape how financial institutions manage and move assets. Natalya Thakur, Co-Founder and CEO of Knox Networks, recently shared her insights into the future of fintech during a conversation on #NYSEFloorTalk with Judy Shaw.
Thakur spoke with precision and passion about the potential of multi-asset ledgers, the challenges of legacy systems, and the opportunities that lie ahead for financial innovation.
Listen to our discussion on the future of Fintech!
“What we’re building at Knox is a multi-asset transaction ledger that provides secure movement of all regulated financial assets,” Thakur explained. “Today, when assets and money move, there are a lot of ledgers and rails behind the ecosystem, and it’s highly inefficient. There are just too many systems.” Knox is positioning itself as a solution to that inefficiency by providing a unified ledger service where financial institutions can manage their connections and transactions across both internal and external accounts.
Bridging Legacy Systems with Modern Infrastructure
Knox Networks aims to bridge the gap between traditional and digital assets, a task that is crucial as the financial world grows increasingly complex. According to Thakur, “Financial institutions today struggle with reconciliation, settlement risk, and fraud, all of which are exacerbated by the lack of real-time monitoring and interoperability across different asset classes.” This becomes even more complex when traditional assets are mixed with emerging digital currencies and digital wallets, which require a new kind of infrastructure to streamline transactions seamlessly.
“We really want to be the bridge between these two ecosystems,” Thakur emphasized. The essence of what Knox aims to achieve is providing a consistent, real-time overview of cash and asset positions that helps financial institutions mitigate the challenges posed by outdated, siloed systems.
A Unique Background in Finance and Technology
Thakur’s journey into fintech innovation is as compelling as Knox’s ambitions. With over a decade of experience in traditional finance and digital assets, she has built her career at the intersection of the two domains, crafting her expertise in the future of money systems. “I’ve spent the last 10 years working at the intersection of traditional finance and digital assets,” Thakur noted. Her experience includes work on the capital markets desk at BlackRock and initial blockchain projects at Google.
She has also been involved with several global initiatives aimed at standardizing and developing future monetary systems, including co-founding the Stanford Future of Digital Currency Initiative, in partnership with global banks and the United Nations. Thakur is also a member of the Bretton Woods Committee, which consists of financial executives and CEOs committed to preserving an innovative and resilient financial system.
Key Milestones and Vision for 2025
Building a reliable, high-performance ledger infrastructure that meets the needs of regulated financial institutions is no easy feat. Knox spent its early years heavily focused on research and development, ensuring the technology it built could meet the high standards required by major financial institutions. “We spent our early years in R&D, trying to build the best multi-asset ledger and piloting with some of the largest global banking institutions,” Thakur explained. Those efforts have earned Knox global recognition, including awards from the G20, the National Science Foundation (NSF), and even the White House.
This year, Knox shifted its focus from R&D to commercialization. According to Thakur, “We’re not just deploying our tech for banks; we’re thinking about how it can be applied across exchanges, asset managers, and other types of institutions.” Looking forward to 2025, Knox aims to capitalize on the network effects offered by its technology. “Our goal is to continue building on our partnerships and begin connecting different institutions that are using Knox, creating an interconnected financial ecosystem,” she added.
Shaping the Future of FinTech: Partnerships and Applications
Knox is particularly interested in partnering with financial institutions that span both traditional and digital assets. The target audience includes teams responsible for settlement and reconciliation, a crucial aspect of financial infrastructure that is often fraught with inefficiencies. Thakur pointed to Stripe’s recent acquisition of Bridge as a signal of where the industry is heading. “Stablecoins are becoming a bigger part of financial institutions’ operations, and Knox can help these institutions plug into their stablecoin ecosystem of choice, while offering a real-time view of all cash, asset, and stablecoin positions,” she said.
The broader trend, Thakur explained, is towards a “rebundling” of financial services. In an industry where fragmentation has often been the rule, Knox is working to unify different types of financial operations under a single, powerful system. “A lot of financial institutions are saying they want one system to do more things, instead of having 15 different systems to manage 15 different asset classes,” she said.
Advice for FinTech Entrepreneurs
When asked for her advice to emerging founders in fintech, Thakur offered a mix of practicality and wisdom. “First off, you need to be obsessed with what you’re building and truly respect the people you’re working with,” she said. “Ideally, you’re working with people who are much smarter than you. It helps maintain level-headedness through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.”
Thakur also emphasized the importance of being intentional about customer acquisition. “Who you sell to in the first three months of your business is very different from who you sell to in year five or ten. That first customer is your most important, and they set the tone for everything that follows,” she said. Lastly, Thakur underscored the need for resilience in the face of the unpredictable. “Outcomes in your business are influenced by so many factors beyond your control. If something doesn’t go as planned, just pick up and move on quickly.”
A Bold Vision for the Future
The work that Knox Networks is undertaking is ambitious, but it’s precisely what the financial sector needs as it grapples with digital transformation and a future increasingly defined by digital assets. Thakur’s vision—one in which traditional financial systems are brought into harmony with the emerging digital asset landscape—is already taking shape, and 2025 promises to be a pivotal year.
With plans to leverage network effects and connect financial institutions on an interoperable platform, Knox Networks could very well be the bridge that the fragmented world of finance desperately needs. As the industry moves towards fewer, more integrated systems, Thakur’s company is positioned to play a leading role in ensuring that financial technology not only advances but does so in a way that is secure, transparent, and efficient.
“We’re building the infrastructure for the future of finance,” Thakur concluded. “One that’s truly interoperable and capable of adapting to whatever comes next.”
The US Commerce Department is preparing to expand its export restrictions to additional Chinese chip firms, reportedly adding as many as 200 companies to its restricted list.
The US has been working to restrict China’s access to advanced semiconductor technology, especially with the advent of AI. As a result, some of the countries most prestigious companies are already restricted from accessing advanced technology made in whole or in part with US intellectual property.
According to a report by Reuters, the Commerce Department is preparing to significantly expand its list of restricted companies, adding up to 200 additional companies. The new regulations are expected “prior to the Thanksgiving break.”
While many policies change with an administration change, this policy is likely to survive the transition from the Biden to Trump administration. In his previous term as US President, Trump tried to ban TikTok and was critical of China and its tech industry. Trump has also promised tariffs on goods from China, as high as 50%.
As a result, if the new regulations are pushed through, it’s likely they will survive—and possibly be expanded even more—under Trump’s second administration.
Google has reportedly canceled its upcoming Pixel Tablet 2 over concerns about demand, in a move that could signal a retreat from the tablet market.
The Pixel Tablet brought Google’s Pixel design aesthetic to tablets, giving Android fans a first-party tablet that showcased the very best of what Android could offer in that form factor. A second version of the tablet was believed to be slated for 2025, but Android Authority is reporting that Google has pulled the plug.
Citing a credible source withing Google, AA’s Mishaal Rahman says Google canceled the second-gen tablet over fears it “would lose money on it.” The decision is disappointing given that the Pixel Tablet 2 promised to be a substantial upgrade over the first-gen model, with a newer chipset, official keyboard, and improved camera.
Even more concerning, however, is the implication that Google may be abandoning the tablet market altogether. News broke earlier this week that the company is working to convert Chrome OS into Android, a move that would greatly improve Android’s tablet-oriented features and help Android tablets better compete with Apple’s iPad.
If Google is abandoning the Pixel Tablet line—and pulling back from the tablet market altogether—Android users will once again have to rely on third-party companies for a non-Apple tablet.
Microsoft is—once again—in hot water over its Copilot AI, this time because it is giving users unauthorized access to emails and documents.
Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff, one of Copilot’s biggest critics, posted a message on X about the issue.
“Microsoft customers deployed Copilot only to discover it can let employees read an inbox or access HR documents. ‘Now when Joe Blow logs into an account & kicks off Copilot, they can see everything, All of a sudden Joe Blow can see the CEO's emails.’”https://t.co/jYXOoQHiyt
According to the Business Insider article Benioff links to, Copilot is oversharing information to such a degree that some companies are delaying deployment of the tool. Despite the issue, Microsoft says Copilot is not to blame, with companies’ lax data-governance models being the real culprit.
“Many data-governance challenges in the context of AI were not caused by AI’s arrival,” a Microsoft spokesperson told BI.
“Microsoft is helping customers enhance their central governance of identities and permissions, to help organizations continuously update and manage these fundamental controls,” the spokesperson added.
The issue seems to stem from the way AI models work, consuming and indexing content in order to provide insights and perform tasks based on it. Evidently, become some organizations do not have strong data-governance policies in place, Copilot is making sensitive information available to employees who shouldn’t have access to that information.
While not technically a Copilot problem, Microsoft is nonetheless rolling out changes designed to help companies identify data-governance issues and address them, as the company describes.
For Copilot administrators, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Existing administrators can also be unfamiliar with how some features can enhance their data security.
To address the need for shorter, actionable, and prescriptive guidance, you can use this deployment blueprint.
In this deployment blueprint, we provide a recommended approach to address internal oversharing concerns throughout a Microsoft 365 Copilot deployment.
Apple is warning Mac users of two critical zero-day vulnerabilities being actively exploited on Intel Macs, with the latest macOS Sequoia update addressing them.
Bad actors are actively exploiting two vulnerabilities, one in JavaScriptCore and the other in WebKit.
JavaScriptCore
Available for: macOS Sequoia
Impact: Processing maliciously crafted web content may lead to arbitrary code execution. Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been actively exploited on Intel-based Mac systems.
Description: The issue was addressed with improved checks.
WebKit
Available for: macOS Sequoia
Impact: Processing maliciously crafted web content may lead to a cross site scripting attack. Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been actively exploited on Intel-based Mac systems.
Description: A cookie management issue was addressed with improved state management.
Users are advised to upgrade to macOS Sequoia 15.1.1 immediately.
Different investors have different opinions about the crypto market, but they all agree that the industry is defined by increased volatility. It’s a space where profit can be made, or money can be lost overnight, especially during a bull run. Bull markets are described as golden opportunities for investors looking to boost their income because if they use the proper strategies they can turn the market’s volatility to their advantage.
The terms bulls are charging, and bears are prowling are widely used in the stock market, but since cryptocurrencies have started gaining ground in financial markets, they have also been used in association with digital assets. Cryptocurrencies also rally at times, and naturally, investors have adopted the terms to describe the periods when they suffer price fluctuations.
And as everyone talks about how the bull market is at its beginning, and people have started looking for ways to buy Bitcoin, it’s worth discussing the actions investors should take.
Now, let’s figure out what a bull run is
Let’s talk about hull runs in general, it’s irrelevant if cryptocurrencies or stocks are the subject of discussion because these periods function the same. Bull markets are characterized by times when the assets are sold at high prices. For cryptocurrencies, bull markets usually last three to four years, and everyone can identify the uptrend in value. Bear markets, on the other hand, signify times when the assets’ prices fall.
Let’s analyze the previous bull and bear markets. We can easily notice that Bitcoin is the harbinger of these periods because its price is the first to suffer major changes, and it impacts the values of all the other digital assets. Therefore, as the BTC prices have been surging since the start of the year, crypto experts can only predict that the market will soon boom in terms of value.
Bitcoin never rallies alone, even if it has a larger market capitalization than altcoins. Ethereum, the second digital crypto by market cap, follows its direction, and all the other alternative currencies join the trend. At the moment, the entire crypto world is experiencing positive growth, which makes investors feel greedy. However, seasoned traders are cautious and wait to see if the market will remain in the bull sprint or slump.
Why do finance experts use the term bull?
The term bull is ideal for describing this period in the crypto industry because of the way bulls attack—if you have never seen one, it thrusts its horns upward, resembling the same movement of prices during this time. Investors tend to be more optimistic during bull markets because the period usually provides them with more profit prospects, which will cause increasing activity in the sector. In these conditions, the assets’ prices go up.
Should you buy Bitcoin during this time?
Bitcoin hit an all-time high (near 81.000) in November 2024, after its fourth halving, which shows that the inflation will most likely trigger an increased volatility for cryptocurrencies, which could turn lucrative for some investors, according to their end goals. Here are the main reasons why buying Bitcoin at this time might be a good idea.
Bitcoin’s price spiked after the previous halvings
As mentioned earlier, Bitcoin went through the fourth halving event, so we can have a look at how the market reacted to the previous ones to try to predict what will happen next. Halvings are meant to reduce the rate at which Bitcoin is created, and considering that the supply gets lower with every event, the demand increases, and therefore, Bitcoin’s price spikes. However, Bitcoin sees the effect after a couple of months, but the market needs a couple of months to adapt to the new conditions. The value is expected to wobble for 3 to 6 months and then surge 12 to 18 months after the halving. However, it’s challenging to predict the exact time when Bitcoin will head on an upward trajectory, but the general consensus is that it will definitely do so in around one year after the halving.
Institutional investors are interested in Bitcoin
The introduction of spot Bitcoin ETFs at the beginning of the year was good news for Bitcoin because they enable institutional investors to access the cryptocurrency more straightforwardly. The event is expected to attract a huge capital influx into the crypto sector because more investors will be willing to add Bitcoin to their portfolios due to its reliability. Besides the institutional investors, ordinary traders can also access Bitcoin ETFs like Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund and iShares Bitcoin Trust and add them to retirement saving accounts.
As expected, the increased interest of institutional investors drives a spike in prices because the demand for Bitcoin is higher than before.
Bitcoin is a scarce asset
When Satoshi Nakamoto, the anonymous creator of Bitcoin, introduced it for the first time to the public, announced that there would be only 21 million Bitcoins. Therefore, Bitcoin is one of the few cryptocurrencies with a limited supply which serves as one of the factors that impact its price. Crypto experts have concluded that the supply of new coins is increasing at a slower rate than the mining of gold, with each new halving, so it’s a scarcer asset. The demand for digital gold has increased over the last few years, while the supply remained the same, so this could only turn beneficial for the asset in the long run. Bitcoin is a store of value and one of the most valuable available, so it’s worthy of being part of any investment portfolio.
Is this the ideal moment to buy Bitcoin?
It’s not ideal considering its high price, but because you missed the opportunity to purchase it in the bear market, now is also a good time to do it before its post-halving price goes up. What you should keep in mind is that each halving event will only build its value up, and its scarcity will remain the same. If you don’t have Bitcoin in your portfolio, consider adding some, and you’ll most likely get a return on investment in the long run.
Ford announced it will reduce its headcount in Europe by 4,000 jobs in response to waning EV demand and in an effort to increase its long-term competitiveness.
Ford has been struggling with its transition to electric vehicles, with demand waning in both the US and Europe. As a result, the company’s EV division has been losing billions. In response, the company says it will eliminate 4,000 jobs in Europe by the end of 2027.
The company is planning to further reduce its European workforce by 4,000 positions by the end of 2027, pending consultations with its European social partners. The planned job cuts will primarily impact operations in Germany but also the UK, with minimal reductions in other European markets.
In addition, due to the weak economic situation and lower-than-expected demand for electric cars, we are further adjusting the production program for the new Explorer and Capri. This will result in additional short-time working days at our Cologne plant in the first quarter of 2025.
“Ford has been in Europe for more than 100 years. We are proud of our new product portfolio for Europe and committed to building a thriving business in Europe for generations to come,” said Dave Johnston, Ford’s European vice president for Transformation and Partnerships. “It is critical to take difficult but decisive action to ensure Ford’s future competitiveness in Europe.”
Ford also called out the difficult regulatory environment in the Europe, with a sizable disconnect between what regulations require automakers to do, versus what consumers want—specifically their lack of enthusiasm for EVs.
Ford recently issued an urgent call to action for industry, policymakers, trade unions, and social partners in Europe to work together for a successful industry transformation. In a letter to the German government, John Lawler, vice chairman and chief financial officer of Ford Motor Company, reiterated Ford’s commitment to Europe and to the 2035 emission targets but stressed the need for a joint commitment by all stakeholders to improving market conditions and ensuring the industry’s future success.
“What we lack in Europe and Germany is an unmistakable, clear policy agenda to advance e-mobility, such as public investments in charging infrastructure, meaningful incentives to help consumers make the shift to electrified vehicles, improving cost competitiveness for manufacturers, and greater flexibility in meeting CO2 compliance targets,” Lawler said.
Ford’s decision illustrate the growing issue automakers are facing with their EV transitions. The company has already paused F-150 Lightning production as a result of low demand. Similarly, Volkswagen has scaled back its battery cell factory plans because of low demand.
Microsoft is continuing its work to ensure a CrowdStrike-like incident never occurs again, debuting the “Quick Machine Recovery” tool.
Security firm CrowdStrike pushed a faulty update to customers in July 2024, causing issues for millions of Windows computers and bringing the internet to its knees. The update was able to case the damage it did because CrowdStrike’s software runs at the kernel level, the lowest-level core of the operating system. As a result, when the faulty update was pushed out, many machines could not be fixed without physical access—not an issue for desktops and workstations, but a major issue for remote servers.
In the wake of the incident, Microsoft has been working to address underlying issues and ensure a similar incident never occurs again. A key element of these efforts is its Quick Machine Recovery tool, outlined in a blog post by David Weston, Vice President Enterprise and OS Security at Microsoft.
Empowering IT administrators with great tools during critical times is a top priority. Our first step is born out of the learnings from the July incident with the announcement of Quick Machine Recovery. This feature will enable IT administrators to execute targeted fixes from Windows Update on PCs, even when machines are unable to boot, without needing physical access to the PC. This remote recovery will unblock your employees from broad issues much faster than what has been possible in the past. Quick Machine Recovery will be available to the Windows Insider Program community in early 2025.
Microsoft Touts Windows 11 Security
Microsoft touts Windows 11 security, saying it provides better security than Windows 10, thanks to a number of features, “TPM 2.0 and virtualization-based security by default.”
Security is a pursuit, and not a destination. Today, I am announcing new features to help commercial customers with three longstanding challenges with Windows security — overprivileged users and applications; unverified apps and drivers; and insecure credentials and authentications. These capabilities have been top requests from customers around the world, including our internal Microsoft security team who we are working with to ensure real-world testing in preparation for scaling to our largest customers.
Weston goes on to outline a number of features that help to bolster Windows 11 security, including reduced administrator privileges.
Administrator protection, currently in preview, is a new solution where users have the security of standard user permissions by default, but can still easily make system changes, including app installation, on their PCs when needed. With administrator protection, if a system change requires administrator rights, like some app installations, the user is prompted to securely authorize the change using Windows Hello. Windows creates a temporary isolated admin token to get the job done. This temporary token is immediately destroyed once the task is complete, ensuring that admin privileges do not persist. Administrator protection helps ensure that users, and not malware, remain in control of system resources. It will also be disruptive to attackers as they no longer have automatic, direct access to the kernel or other critical system security without specific Windows Hello authorization.
Similarly, Windows 11 does more to protect credentials than previous versions of the OS.
Windows Hello is the built-in MFA solution on Windows. It has been further hardened and extended to support passkeys. You no longer need to choose between a simple sign-in and a safe sign-in. Windows Hello is also being used to protect Recall and Personal Data Encryption.
In addition, Windows 11 will provide improved trusted apps and drivers, improved data protection, and better OS management and configuration.
Nearly 40 years after its launch, Windows continues to evolve to meet the challenges of the ever-changing digital landscape and delivering on expectations for reliability and security. Security is a team effort; by collaborating with OEM partners, app developers and others we deliver Windows from chip to cloud, secure by design and default.
Microsoft is clearly working to deliver on its promise to make security its foremost concern. The latest improvements to Windows 11 appear to be well-designed features that should go a long way toward protecting Windows users.
