Tech

AppLovin (APP) and Robinhood (HOOD) shares jumped 7% after-hours following S&P Global’s announcement of their inclusion in the S&P 500, effective September 22nd. AppLovin replaces MarketAxess (MKTX), and Robinhood replaces Caesars Entertainment (CZR). This is a significant validation, especially for Robinhood. While index inclusion typically boosts share prices, the long-term benefits for AppLovin, in the competitive mobile advertising sector, and Robinhood, requiring sustained profitability, remain to be seen.

President Trump threatens a Section 301 trade investigation against the EU in response to “discriminatory fines” levied on U.S. tech giants Google and Apple. This follows the EU’s antitrust fine of nearly $3.5 billion on Google and ongoing scrutiny of Apple’s tax practices, including a $14 billion back tax bill in Ireland. Trump argues the EU unfairly penalizes American companies, impacting U.S. investments and jobs, and vows to nullify these penalties. The move could escalate trade tensions and impact the tech sector.

Anthropic has reportedly agreed to a $1.5 billion settlement in a copyright lawsuit brought by authors who alleged their works were used without permission to train AI models. The proposed settlement includes payments of $3,000 per book plus interest and a commitment to destroy datasets containing the allegedly infringing material. This landmark case addresses copyright law in AI development. The plaintiffs’ attorney emphasized the importance of respecting copyright laws for AI training. The lawsuit, filed last year, claimed “large-scale copyright infringement.” Following a substantial funding round, experts believe this settlement could clarify legal frameworks around AI training data.

The U.S. tech industry’s eight trillion-dollar companies saw a collective market cap increase of $420 billion this week, reaching $21 trillion, despite Nvidia’s downturn. Alphabet and Apple rallied after a favorable antitrust ruling, which also allows their continued AI partnership. Broadcom secured a $10 billion AI client, likely OpenAI, propelling its entry into the trillion-dollar club. Tesla shares climbed following news of a proposed compensation package for Elon Musk. Google, Apple, Amazon, and Meta all face antitrust scrutiny, reflecting an industry wide push towards regulation.

Roblox (RBLX) introduced “Roblox Moments,” enabling users 13+ to share in-game short videos, challenging TikTok and YouTube. AI tools will democratize 3D content creation, impacting the developer economy. These moves come as Roblox faces regulatory scrutiny and legal challenges concerning child safety. Safety chief Matt Kaufman emphasized moderation of “Moments” content and AI-generated creations. The company is expanding age estimation programs amid allegations of failing to protect underage users from exploitation.

The EU Commission has fined Google €2.95 billion for anti-competitive practices in its adtech business, alleging the company favored its own services, disadvantaging rivals and distorting the market. The EU requires Google to cease these practices within 60 days and address conflicts of interest. Google disputes the findings, plans to appeal, and argues its services benefit the market. This decision could force Google to restructure its adtech business in Europe and sets a precedent globally for antitrust actions against dominant tech platforms.

Broadcom’s stock surged after announcing a $10 billion commitment from a new customer, widely speculated to be OpenAI for custom AI chips (XPUs). CEO Hock Tan highlighted the order’s impact on Broadcom’s AI revenue forecast, with shipments expected in 2026. Analysts believe the partnership will optimize OpenAI’s AI models and strengthen Broadcom’s position in the AI market, where it competes with Nvidia. Broadcom’s Q3 results exceeded expectations, with projected Q4 revenue reaching $17.4 billion.

Tesla is seeking shareholder approval for a new CEO compensation package for Elon Musk, following a court invalidation of his 2018 pay plan, deemed excessive. The proposal includes stock options vesting upon achieving ambitious market capitalization and operational milestones, aiming to incentivize Musk and grant him increased voting power. Tesla also proposes investing in Musk’s AI venture, xAI, raising conflict-of-interest concerns. The timing coincides with an ongoing legal battle regarding the 2018 package, adding complexity to executive compensation practices and corporate governance.

OpenAI is entering the recruitment market with an AI-powered platform, aiming to connect talent with companies seeking AI expertise. Launching in mid-2026, it will prioritize local businesses and government entities. Simultaneously, OpenAI is expanding its “OpenAI Academy” with a certification program designed to validate AI fluency and challenge LinkedIn Learning. Walmart is already integrating the program into its internal training. OpenAI aims to certify 10 million Americans by 2030, addressing the skills gap and focusing on AI literacy programs while navigating complex relationships with competitors like Microsoft.

Following a favorable antitrust ruling that boosted Alphabet’s market capitalization by $230 billion, CEO Sundar Pichai was congratulated by President Trump at a White House dinner. The discussion also covered AI, with Pichai emphasizing its transformative potential and praising the administration’s AI action plan, which aims to prioritize American competitiveness and exclude “Woke AI.” Google remains engaged in a lawsuit with Trump’s legal team regarding YouTube’s suspension of his accounts. Earlier, Pichai attended the White House “AI Education Taskforce” event.