Tech

Waymo’s pilot robotaxi program with Uber in Phoenix has ended, with learnings being applied to expanded operations in Austin and Atlanta, where Waymo vehicles are exclusively on Uber. Waymo is diversifying partnerships, using Phoenix vehicles for DoorDash deliveries and planning a non-exclusive Lyft launch in Nashville. This signals a strategic shift in the maturing AV market towards broader platform access, as Uber expands its AV collaborations across multiple cities and competitors like Zoox intensify efforts.

AeroVironment’s stock surged 17% after reporting blowout Q4 FY26 earnings. The defense tech firm significantly beat analyst expectations for both earnings and revenue, fueled by growing global demand for unmanned systems and counter-UAS solutions. The company’s strong financial performance and robust backlog highlight its strategic positioning in the evolving defense landscape, particularly driven by recent global conflicts.

Alphabet’s inclusion in the Dow Jones marks a symbolic milestone, though its stock faces headwinds. Investors are concerned about AI investment returns due to increased competition from Chinese models, talent departures, and compute resource scarcity. Alphabet is reportedly seeking collaborations to address compute shortages, impacting its AI strategy and leading to increased debt and equity financing as it navigates the AI arms race.

Stocks edged higher as a shortened week began, influenced by Comcast’s strategic media spinoff, easing geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, and China’s export-driven economic recovery. Kohl’s is pursuing a turnaround strategy. The rising popularity of LGBTQ+ romance narratives, particularly among female viewers, is also noted. Key economic data and earnings reports will be closely watched.

President Trump made significant stock purchases in Axon Enterprise, a Taser manufacturer, shortly before ICE solicited a large contract for similar devices. While the White House states Trump has no direct involvement in investments, the timing and tailored specifications of the ICE notice have raised ethical questions. Experts note the contract’s specifications strongly favor Axon, potentially leading to substantial gains for Trump’s investments and further entrenching Axon’s role in federal law enforcement technology.

SpaceX’s recent $25 billion debt issuance, following its IPO, highlights significant financing needs and ambitious expansion plans. While demand for the bonds was strong, the move raises concerns for investors regarding diversification, as both equity and debt are tied to the company’s execution risk. The rapid financing pace, despite current losses, signals future challenges in meeting revenue targets and managing an elevated valuation.

Record heatwaves are straining global power grids and putting unprecedented pressure on AI data center cooling systems. Insurance companies are now re-evaluating climate risk, with severe weather becoming a leading cause of losses for data center builders. A significant percentage of data center capacity is exposed to acute climate hazards, necessitating resilient design and innovative cooling solutions.

Baidu’s AI chip unit, Kunlunxin, is reportedly preparing for a potential $50 billion IPO in Hong Kong. Investors are being asked to commit to substantial chip purchases, signaling strong demand for Kunlunxin’s products. This move aligns with China’s broader strategy to boost domestic AI hardware capabilities amidst global tech competition, potentially marking a significant step in China’s pursuit of AI leadership.

Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix stock prices fell after reports revealed plans for combined investments exceeding $1.3 trillion over the next decade. These significant strategic announcements, potentially including semiconductor fabrication, AI data centers, and advanced chip technologies, aim to solidify their leadership in the rapidly growing AI hardware market. The investments underscore a broader industry trend towards long-term capital allocation for future dominance.

Wall Street reacted to the AI boom’s dual impact: soaring demand for chips, exemplified by Micron’s strong earnings, yet rising infrastructure costs for hyperscalers. Tech stocks, including semiconductors, saw declines amid concerns about funding and supply chain bottlenecks. Conversely, falling oil prices boosted economically sensitive sectors like industrials and healthcare, helping the Dow Jones Industrial Average. The market grappled with distinguishing AI beneficiaries from those absorbing its escalating expenses.