Technology

Major corporations are announcing AI-driven layoffs, but critics argue AI is a convenient scapegoat for downsizing due to broader economic pressures. Examples include Accenture, Lufthansa, Salesforce and Klarna integrating AI to enhance efficiency. Some experts suggest companies are using AI to mask other strategic imperatives, while others find little evidence of widespread job losses due to AI, citing pandemic-era overhiring as a factor. Concerns are raised about transparency and the need for companies to address employee anxieties surrounding AI.

Quantum computing stocks surged after JPMorgan Chase announced it would include the sector in its new $10 billion investment drive focused on strategic technologies. This initiative is part of a broader $1.5 trillion plan to bolster U.S. national and economic security. Arqit Quantum, D-Wave Quantum, Rigetti Computing, IONQ, and Quantum Computing stocks all saw significant gains. Quantum computing, leveraging qubits and offering exponential computational power, promises to revolutionize fields from drug discovery to cryptography. Companies are actively developing both gate-model and quantum annealing approaches, racing to overcome technological hurdles.

Mercury Insurance is integrating XyloPlan’s building-level Wildfire Risk Scores, powered by Milliman’s PinPoint API, into its underwriting process. This data-driven approach moves beyond traditional hazard maps by simulating fire spread based on vegetation, terrain, and weather. The integration provides property-specific risk assessments, enabling more accurate pricing, tailored customer guidance, and proactive mitigation strategies. This partnership highlights the insurance industry’s growing trend towards utilizing advanced technologies for wildfire risk management in response to increasing frequency and intensity.

The combined wealth of Elon Musk, Larry Ellison, and Mark Zuckerberg has reached $1.03 trillion, approaching Berkshire Hathaway’s market cap. This wealth surge stems from their significant equity stakes in Tesla, Oracle, and Meta, driven by investor enthusiasm for AI advancements. Ellison’s wealth nearly doubled this year due to Oracle’s cloud and AI focus, while Zuckerberg’s increased with Meta’s strategic shift and AI integration. Musk may become the first trillionaire under a potential Tesla compensation plan tied to an $8.5 trillion valuation.

BYD believes Western automakers lag behind in EV technology despite claims from Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz of their competitive readiness. BYD cites its early entry into the Chinese market, in-house battery production (like its Blade Battery), and China’s robust EV supply chain as key advantages. BYD’s Stella Li emphasizes the company’s continued “room to develop,” indicating confidence in maintaining its technological lead, while Western manufacturers face challenges in adapting to the competitive EV landscape, especially in battery technology and supply chain efficiency.

Via Transportation, Inc. announced the pricing of its IPO of 10,714,285 Class A shares at $46.00 per share, expected to begin trading on the NYSE under “VIA” on September 12, 2025, and close on September 15, 2025. Underwriters have a 30-day option to purchase an additional 1,607,142 shares. Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Allen & Company LLC, and Wells Fargo Securities are lead bookrunners. Via provides technology to optimize public transit networks, using real-time data and on-demand algorithms to modernize transportation systems in hundreds of cities across more than 30 countries.

OpenAI is acquiring Statsig, a product development startup, for $1.1 billion to enhance its capabilities in feature testing and data optimization. Statsig CEO Vijaye Raji will become OpenAI’s technology chief within the applications unit, reporting to Fidji Simo. Statsig will operate independently, serving existing customers. This acquisition follows OpenAI’s purchase of Jony Ive’s AI devices startup, IO, and analytics database company Rockset, demonstrating its aggressive expansion strategy. A previous attempt to acquire AI-assisted coding tool Windsurf was unsuccessful.

Huawei Chairman Guo Ping addressed new hires in July 2025, discussing the company’s strengths and weaknesses in a “decoupling world.” Acknowledging restricted access to advanced technologies, Guo emphasized Huawei’s strong domestic base and ambition to become a global leader in ICT and smart devices. He highlighted strategies like “hardware-software synergy” and “non-Moore’s Law approaches” to overcome limitations and offer “another option” to the world. Guo urged new employees to seize opportunities in the dynamic industry and contribute to reshaping it.

8×8, Inc. has extended its partnership with Southampton FC, continuing as an official partner for Men’s and Women’s First Teams through the 2025/26 season. 8×8’s cloud-based technology is integral to the club’s operations, enhancing matchday experiences and fan engagement through streamlined communications. The partnership focuses on fostering deeper connections with supporters via personalized interactions and timely updates. The renewed agreement includes increased brand visibility and collaborative community outreach programs, leveraging 8×8’s unified platform to elevate fan experiences and operational efficiency.

Huawei founder Ren Zhengfei met with Xi’an Jiaotong University leaders to discuss deeper collaboration in research, education, and talent development. Ren emphasized the importance of fundamental research, particularly mathematics, and Huawei’s strategy of collaborative innovation with universities. He expressed confidence in China’s technological advancement, highlighting opportunities in chip development through mathematical solutions and diverse operating systems. Ren stressed the crucial role of education and talent cultivation.