Technology

First Trust Advisors announced that its First Trust Income Opportunities ETF (FCEF) will make a $0.1350 per‑share monthly cash distribution, with an ex‑dividend and record date of Dec 11, 2025 and payable on Dec 31, 2025. The fund, managed by First Trust Advisors, targets income‑focused investors through a diversified mix of dividend‑paying equities, REITs, and short‑duration bonds, leveraging algorithmic creation/redemption for tax efficiency. Investors should consider market, sector, liquidity and cybersecurity risks before investing. Source: First Trust Advisors L.P.

Broadcom (AVGO) shares surged, fueled by investor enthusiasm for AI-linked stocks, particularly due to its key role in enabling Alphabet’s (GOOGL) AI ambitions. As a supplier of application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) for hyperscale computing, Broadcom is benefiting from Google’s increasing demand for custom AI chips like Tensor Processing Units (TPUs). Analysts are raising price targets, citing the growing importance of ASICs in AI infrastructure as companies seek performance and efficiency gains beyond general-purpose GPUs.

GE HealthCare (GEHC) declared a Q4 2025 cash dividend of $0.035 per share, payable February 13, 2026, to shareholders of record on January 9, 2026. This decision reflects the company’s commitment to shareholder value amidst increasing demand within the healthcare industry and technological advancements. GE HealthCare, a $19.7 billion global leader, focuses on medical technology, pharmaceutical diagnostics, and AI-enabled solutions. The company aims to optimize hospital efficiency and improve patient outcomes.

The 2025 ISG Paragon Awards™ Asia recognized organizations strategically deploying AI, digital technology, and innovative operating models for business success. Winners, selected by an independent panel, were announced at a Singapore gala. Awards highlighted excellence in areas like Best-in-Class delivery (Avanade with Country Foods), Innovation (Tech Mahindra with Mahindra Auto and Farm), Transformation (TCS with Plaza Premium Group), and AI Pacesetter (Avanade with Alexandra Group). iCompaz and Temasek Holdings received Honorary Distinction for Partnership Excellence. The awards reflect the growing importance of the Asia Pacific region in leveraging AI and other technologies.

With tech giants investing heavily in AI data centers, depreciation of AI GPUs is a crucial accounting concern. Unlike traditional servers, the lifespan of these rapidly evolving components is uncertain, impacting profitability and investment decisions. While some, like CoreWeave, see long-term value, short seller Michael Burry suggests companies may be inflating useful life for earnings. Factors like new chip releases and wear-and-tear could accelerate depreciation. Companies are adopting varied strategies, and auditors are scrutinizing depreciation claims closely.

Northstar Clean Technologies has launched its first asphalt shingle reprocessing facility in Calgary and secured a five-year contract with the City to process discarded shingles. The Empower Calgary Facility will help divert waste from landfills by reprocessing up to 80,000 tonnes of shingles annually using its patented technology, recovering asphalt, aggregate, and fibre for reuse. The facility expects to reduce lifecycle CO₂ emissions by approximately 60%. This aligns with Alberta’s circular economy goals and positions Northstar as a leader in shingle recycling in North America.

Microsoft is implementing a “Trusted Technology Review” portal for employees to raise ethical concerns about its technology, following internal unrest and scrutiny over geopolitical involvements. This initiative addresses controversies like curtailed cloud services to an Israeli defense unit and security risks concerning US Department of Defense reliance on Microsoft engineers in China. President Brad Smith emphasized non-retaliation and anonymous reporting. These changes reflect a growing tech industry trend toward greater accountability and ethical oversight. Microsoft aims to balance innovation, growth, and ethical responsibilities.

Bill Gates urges a shift in climate strategy, emphasizing human welfare alongside emissions reduction. He argues for prioritizing poverty and disease alleviation, viewing them as integral to climate action. While acknowledging the challenges of meeting Paris Agreement goals and political volatility, Gates remains optimistic about technological innovation, particularly in the tech sector. However, concerns arise regarding the energy demands of AI and its potential impact on sustainability targets. Despite potential risks of an AI bubble, tech companies face pressure to invest in emerging technologies.

Anticipation of a U.S.-China trade agreement is fueling market optimism, with major U.S. stock indexes reaching record highs. A deal could boost tech and agriculture sectors, potentially revising earnings guidance. However, trade tensions previously restricted growth, as Nvidia’s guidance shows. Beyond trade, possible Amazon layoffs, HSBC’s earnings, and Fed rate cut expectations are also impacting markets. Saudi Arabia is diversifying its economy, heavily investing in AI and data centers. President Trump indicated a trade deal with China is near.

The U.S. Commerce Department denies reports of negotiating equity stakes in quantum computing firms like IonQ, Rigetti, and D-Wave in exchange for federal funding, despite market reactions to the initial Wall Street Journal report. The denial follows earlier government investments in strategic sectors like semiconductors and rare earth mining, fueling debates about government involvement in private enterprise. Potential applications span various industries, while military implications drive further interest. The sector faces challenges including revenue generation, long development cycles, and a skilled labor shortage. Nonetheless, advancements like Google’s “quantum advantage” attract investment.