Welcome back to your daily memorandum talking tech, business, AI, markets, and more. 🗞️

In today’s edition we are tackling the following:

🎥 OpenAI’s Sora debuts with text-to-video features for Plus and Pro users.
🖥️ Nvidia faces antitrust scrutiny in China over its Mellanox acquisition.
🌐 Google’s 'Willow' quantum chip marks a leap forward with advanced error correction.
🔍 Reddit tests conversational AI search tools, offering summaries and curated links.
🔴 Haiti’s capital hit by gang violence, leaving over 180 dead.

TECH

• Reddit Tests a Conversational AI Search Tool

  • Reddit introduces 'Reddit Answers,' using AI to provide conversational responses to search queries.

  • It offers curated summaries with links, aiming to improve how users retrieve information on the platform.

  • The tool is available in the U.S. to a select group, with plans for broader regional and language expansion.

• Google Unveils Mind-Boggling Quantum Computing Chip

  • Google launches 'Willow,' a quantum chip solving problems classical supercomputers find impractical.

  • The chip features 105 qubits and showcases progress in error correction for scalable quantum systems.

  • This breakthrough highlights strides toward practical quantum computing applications in industry.

• OpenAI Confirms Release of Sora

  • OpenAI's 'Sora' generates videos up to 20 seconds long from text prompts for Plus and Pro subscribers.

  • Features include animation from images and video remixing, with safeguards to prevent misuse.

  • The model is unavailable in some regions but expected to expand as OpenAI refines its offerings.

BUSINESS

• Nvidia Faces Antitrust Investigation in China

  • China's regulators investigate Nvidia's acquisition of Mellanox, citing possible antitrust violations.

  • The move comes amid heightened U.S.-China tensions and export restrictions on advanced chips.

  • Nvidia's stock fell 2.3%, reflecting market concerns over regulatory scrutiny.

• UnitedHealth CEO Defends Claim Denial Practices in Leaked Video

  • CEO Andrew Witty argues that rejecting 'unnecessary care' claims ensures system sustainability.

  • The leaked video surfaces amid backlash after UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson's passing.

  • Critics demand transparency on claim approvals as debates on healthcare costs intensify.

• Hershey’s stock explodes higher on report Mondelez offered to buy it

  • Hershey shares jumped 13% after reports of a Mondelez offer to acquire the chocolate giant.

  • Mondelez seeks to enhance its U.S. chocolate presence, while Hershey could gain global reach.

  • Mondelez stock declined as investors evaluated the strategic implications of the deal.

CONTENT

• Saagar Enjeti | Lex Fridman Podcast

  • Saagar reflects on historical political ideologies, comparing MAGA to FDR’s populist policies and JFK’s optimism.

  • Topics include U.S. foreign policy, immigration, and the future of the Republican and Democratic parties.

  • Saagar highlights books that influenced his perspectives, emphasizing the need for nuanced historical analysis.

• Seth Godin's Best Tactics for Building Remarkable Products

  • Seth outlines how tension, empathy, and risk-taking are critical to successful product strategies.

  • He discusses the role of AI in writing and branding, including how he used Claude for his newest book.

  • Key takeaways include lessons on leadership, the power of systems, and building brands that resonate.

• Why Salesforce Isn't Hiring Software Engineers | 20VC

  • Marc discusses Salesforce’s pivot to AI, emphasizing specialized models and Agent Force for digital transformation.

  • He predicts digital labor will reshape SaaS pricing and reduce Salesforce’s workforce over the next decade.

  • Insights include lessons from Steve Jobs and strategies for maintaining relevance in a fast paced AI landscape.

WORLD

• Israel's Role in Syrian Rebel Advances

  • Israel seizes a 400 sq km buffer zone in Syria for ‘temporary defense,’ sparking accusations of ceasefire violations.

  • Move aims to counter Iran’s weapon smuggling to Hezbollah and prevent instability from spilling into Israel.

  • UN and regional actors condemn Israel, calling the incursion an exploitation of Syria’s collapse.

• Haiti Gangs Kill More Than 180, Mostly Elderly, in Capital

  • A gang attack in Port-au-Prince killed over 180 people, mostly elderly, marking a shocking escalation.

  • The violence underscores worsening conditions as gangs control large areas of Haiti's capital.

  • International organizations call for immediate intervention to address the growing crisis.

• China Begins Military Movements Around Taiwan

  • Taiwan reports significant naval movements by China near its borders, sparking combat readiness drills.

  • Beijing's actions follow Taiwan President Lai’s US visit and new arms deals with Washington, intensifying tensions.

  • China claims sovereignty over Taiwan, while the island asserts independence, escalating regional concerns.

AND MORE…

• AI Voice Startup from Ex-OpenAI Researcher Valued at $200 Million

  • An AI voice startup founded by an ex-OpenAI researcher has reached a $200 million valuation.

  • The startup develops voice synthesis models capable of mimicking human-like intonations and accents.

  • Investors highlight its potential applications in gaming, customer support, and media.

• Cloudflare Radar 2024: Year in Review

  • Cloudflare’s annual report showcases internet trends, including spikes in traffic during global events.

  • Cyberattacks were a major concern, with DDoS activity increasing by 30% compared to 2023.

  • Emerging regions saw significant internet growth, particularly in Africa and Southeast Asia.

• Bluesky Teases Paid Subscription 'Bluesky+' in New Mockup

  • Bluesky released a mockup of a paid subscription tier, sparking interest among users and creators.

  • The 'Bluesky+' tier may include features like content boosts, analytics, and priority support.

  • The move aims to monetize the platform while maintaining its decentralized network ethos.