AI integration

The US government shutdown, now the longest in history at 41 days, may be nearing its end. The Senate approved a procedural measure to fund the government until January, signaling bipartisan weariness. Stocks are recovering amid optimism, while PitchBook launched an AI tool for market analysis. MLB pitchers face indictment in a betting scheme. A survey reveals millionaires prioritize well-being over financial management, favoring personal trainers and therapists over wealth advisors.

HubSpot appointed Meta’s Clara Shih, a business AI expert, to its Board, signaling a renewed focus on AI integration. Shih, formerly CEO of Salesforce AI, brings extensive experience in developing AI-powered business tools. This move comes as HubSpot aims to demonstrate AI’s transformative potential to investors amid concerns about AI’s disruptive impact and decelerating revenue growth. HubSpot has also introduced AI tools and acquired XFunnel, reinforcing its commitment to AI-driven marketing and sales solutions. The appointment underscores HubSpot’s strategic push to leverage AI for efficiency and sustained expansion.

NYU Stern MBA students are optimistic about AI’s impact, seeing it as a tool rather than a threat, according to Professor Robert Seamans. His curriculum emphasizes hands-on AI experimentation, including exercises where students use LLMs to build and dismantle arguments, fostering critical thinking. While high school and college students are more cautious, viewing AI as an aid, not a replacement for core skills, Georgia Tech is adapting curricula to emphasize higher-level concepts that AI cannot easily solve. Successful organizations will cultivate continuous learning and leverage AI to augment human ingenuity.

Despite reporting better-than-expected Q3 revenue ($13.47B vs. $13.28B expected) and strong growth (revenue up 20% YoY), Uber shares fell 5%. Key highlights included EPS of $3.11, a 22% increase in trips to 3.5 billion, and a surge to 189 million monthly active platform consumers. Net income nearly tripled to $6.6B, boosted by tax and investment benefits. Uber anticipates Q4 gross bookings of $52.25B-$53.75B and adjusted EBITDA of $2.41B-$2.51B. CEO Khosrowshahi emphasized innovation, affordability, and AI integration as drivers of future growth.

OpenAI launched ChatGPT Atlas, an AI-powered web browser, integrating ChatGPT functionalities for AI-assisted summaries, question answering, and task completion. Atlas features an “Ask ChatGPT” button and an “agent mode” automating tasks like booking reservations. Currently available on macOS, with agent mode for Plus/Pro subscribers, Atlas aims to personalize browsing and automate online processes. Alphabet shares dropped following the announcement, highlighting the competitive landscape and potential disruption to established browsers. Future expansion to Windows, iOS, and Android is planned.

Figma (FIG) shares jumped 7% after OpenAI’s DevDay, where Sam Altman showcased its ChatGPT integration. This integration, enabled by OpenAI’s Apps SDK, allows ChatGPT users to leverage Figma for diagram creation and design workflows. Figma’s proactive AI assistance within ChatGPT streamlines user experience, potentially transforming product development. The stock surge, the largest since Figma’s July IPO, reflects investor optimism in AI-driven integrations and Figma’s commitment to AI-powered design tools. OpenAI plans to monetize these integrations, fostering a sustainable AI ecosystem.

Zillow has launched a real estate application within ChatGPT, allowing users to search for properties using conversational AI. Users can ask questions about housing options, explore listings with photos and pricing, and seamlessly transition to Zillow’s platform for viewings, agent connections, and financing. This integration streamlines initial property discovery by leveraging Zillow’s data and AI capabilities within the popular ChatGPT interface. The app supports various listing types and plans to incorporate new construction and 3D tours.

Microsoft promotes Judson Althoff to CEO of its commercial business, encompassing sales, marketing, and operations. CEO Satya Nadella emphasizes a focus on AI integration to empower clients. The move consolidates key revenue-generating divisions, including productivity software and cloud-based AI infrastructure. This restructuring aims to accelerate growth, enhance AI-driven transformation, and solidify Microsoft’s market position against competitors like AWS and Google Cloud. Althoff’s expanded role reflects Microsoft’s commitment to leveraging AI across all commercial operations.

An MIT study investigated the cognitive effects of LLM use compared to search engines and independent thought. EEG data revealed reduced brain activity and lower ownership of work among LLM users, suggesting decreased cognitive engagement. Participants who initially used LLMs exhibited weaker neural connectivity and cognitive processing even after switching to independent work, while those who used LLMs after independent work showed cognitive benefits. This highlights the potential for LLMs to hinder cognitive development if used as a substitute for critical thinking, urging cautious AI integration.

Progress Software (PRGS) announced strong Q3 2025 results, exceeding expectations with 40% revenue growth to $250 million and a 47% increase in Annualized Recurring Revenue (ARR) to $849 million. Non-GAAP diluted EPS rose 19% to $1.50. The company raised its full-year guidance and highlighted the successful integration of ShareFile. Progress is investing in AI, including agentic RAG technology. The Board increased the share repurchase authorization by $200 million. The company expects continued revenue and earnings growth.