News

Jan Sramek, a former Goldman Sachs trader, has been quietly working on a mysterious project in California aimed at building an urban utopia near San Francisco and Silicon Valley. Through his company Flannery Associates, Sramek has acquired thousands of acres of farmland, garnering the attention of high-profile tech investors.

However, as the project becomes more public, it faces challenges such as lawsuits from locals and strict zoning laws. The future of this ambitious “mega-city” plan remains uncertain.

Yahoo announced the introduction of new AI tools for Yahoo Mail that aim to assist users in saving time and money. These tools include upgrades to existing AI features and the launch of a new Shopping Saver tool. The Shopping Saver tool helps users find forgotten gift cards, discount codes, and store credits and drafts suggested messages to vendors for applying those savings. Yahoo Mail’s existing capabilities also received upgrades, including improved search functionality with suggested questions and enhanced filters, as well as an expanded writing assistant with the ability to write in different tones.

Yahoo utilized Google Cloud’s AI platform for developing its generative AI features. The features were initially tested with iOS users but are now accessible for web browser users as well. Yahoo is preparing for a wider release but has not specified a date. Google and Microsoft have previously introduced generative AI-powered features in Gmail and Outlook, making Yahoo’s announcement timely.

Summary: A historic heat wave sweeping across the Southwest and other parts of the US is drawing attention to the increasing deaths and injuries of workers in extreme heat. This issue is particularly prevalent among low-wage migrant workers who are often employed in hot warehouses, kitchens, or outdoor jobs.

While federal procedures exist for addressing climate change-related risks like drought, flood, and wildfires, there is a lack of specific heat protections. Despite ongoing efforts by the Biden administration, there is currently no federal heat standard in the US, leaving workers potentially exposed to hazardous conditions. Some states have adopted their own regulations, but there is a need for consistent and comprehensive standards to address this climate hazard.

Geek Ventures, a new venture capital firm, has raised $23 million to invest in immigrant tech founders at the pre-seed and seed stages. Founded by Ihar Mahaniok, who immigrated from Belarus, the firm aims to provide more opportunities for talented entrepreneurs worldwide. Mahaniok also focuses on building connections within the U.S. venture capital ecosystem through networking events. Backed by investors such as Applovin founder and CEO Adam Foroughi, Geek Ventures has invested in 35 companies and plans to support one or two startups monthly with investments ranging from $50,000 to $1 million.

Google announced several security-related enhancements for its Google Workspace products, including Gmail and Drive. These updates aim to enhance the zero trust security model and integrate it with data loss prevention (DLP) capabilities. The additions include AI-powered continuous classification and labelling of sensitive data, enhanced DLP controls in Gmail, context-aware controls in Drive, and AI-driven log data analysis for detecting data breaches and suspicious activities.

Google is also introducing client-side encryption for mobile versions of Gmail, Calendar, Meet, and other Workspace tools, allowing customers to control their encryption keys. The company is also offering the option to choose the data processing location, starting with the EU and the United States. Pricing details for these features are yet to be specified.

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai has raised concerns with India regarding its new order that requires licenses for the import of laptops, tablets, and personal computers. The move could potentially impact shipments from companies such as Apple and Dell and may prompt firms to increase local manufacturing. Tai emphasized the need for stakeholders to review and provide input to ensure that the policy does not harm U.S. exports to India.

The new licensing regime, set to take effect on November 1, intends to ensure trusted hardware and systems enter the country while reducing dependence on imports and addressing the trade imbalance with China. India and the U.S. will also continue discussions to resolve a bilateral dispute at the World Trade Organisation related to certain agricultural imports.

The gun industry faced a sales slump after the pandemic, reducing production for major manufacturers. However, despite fewer firearms sold in the US, the industry remains profitable as manufacturers adjust to meet changing consumer demand. Smith & Wesson and Sturm, Ruger & Company have stabilized their declines, assuring investors of positive trends that will help the industry rebound. The industry is slowing down production, slashing prices, and developing new-generation firearms with advanced technology and safety features.

Gun startups like Biofire Technologies are introducing smart guns that utilize facial recognition and fingerprint verification. Additionally, the industry focuses on lightweight materials and red dot sights to make firearms more appealing. New gun ownership rates reached a record high during the pandemic, with a shift in demographics and reasons for purchasing firearms. Protection has become the primary factor for gun ownership, replacing recreational and hunting purposes. The gun industry is adapting its marketing strategies to cater to a more diverse and younger consumer base.