machine learning

words.Progressive (NYSE: PGR) declared a 2025 annual dividend of $13.50 per share and a $0.10 quarterly dividend, both payable on January 8 2026 to shareholders of record as of January 2 2026. The board expects quarterly payouts to continue throughout 2026. The 2026 annual shareholders’ meeting record date is March 13, 2026, with the meeting set for May 8, 2026. The payout reflects Progressive’s strong capital position, diversified underwriting portfolio, AI‑driven pricing analytics, and recent acquisition expanding its commercial auto business.

A CQF Institute report reveals a critical AI skills gap in quantitative finance. Less than 10% of specialists believe recent graduates possess adequate AI/ML expertise, despite widespread AI adoption (83%) and daily usage by over half of quants. Key AI applications include coding, sentiment analysis, and research, leading to productivity gains for 44%. Challenges include model explainability (41%) and regulatory compliance (16%). Limited formal AI training programs (14%) exacerbate the gap, highlighting the need for comprehensive education and strategic AI integration.

Leonardo DRS has launched SAGEcore™, a software platform integrating AI, sensor technology, and edge computing for tactical applications. Designed for rapid data fusion in multi-domain environments, SAGEcore aims to provide warfighters with real-time situational awareness, enabling faster decision-making. The platform supports various tactical systems and offers capabilities like multi-sensor data fusion, AI/ML algorithm execution, and secure communication. Leonardo DRS targets key areas like counter-UAS and electronic warfare, positioning itself in the growing AI-powered defense market.

BYD, China’s EV leader, joins CCTV’s “Brand Powerhouse Project,” aiming for global dominance. Driven by technological innovation and significant R&D investment (¥54.2B in 2024), BYD achieved 4.27 million global sales in 2024, leading the Chinese market and the global NEV sector. With sales in over 110 countries and diverse brand portfolios, BYD leverages its core technologies and integrated supply chain to fuel its global expansion.