Investors pour funds into AI-focused companies as Manychat's latest fundraising fuels growth in chat automation technology.

Investors focus on AI and chatbots. Manychat raised $140 million in a growth capital round led by Summit Partners. The company, based in Palo Alto, California, provides conversational AI and automation tools for businesses on social and messaging platforms. Manychat aims to help businesses grow by forming connections with customers and simplifying technologies. The funding will enhance innovation in AI and automation, increasing value for businesses and creators. Manychat sends billions of messages annually on platforms like Instagram and TikTok and serves over one million businesses. The company plans to use the funding for global expansion, research and development, marketing, customer service, and developing AI agent features. AI investment continues to rise, with $59.6 billion in venture funding in the last quarter. Exaforce secured $75 million in Series A funding, focusing on integrating AI agents into security operations.Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

What is driving the surge in funding for chat automation companies

Fintech's evolution revolves around AI, prioritizing vertical solutions and infrastructure ownership for sustainable success.

The fintech sector undergoes restructuring driven by artificial intelligence, leading to signs of resurgence amidst challenges for early-stage founders. Established companies dominate consumer and business banking, prompting new entrants to target niche markets. Consumers utilize multiple fintech applications, increasing competition for market share. Startups adopt a vertical-first approach by integrating AI and owning their infrastructure to access better data and decision-making capabilities. Investment focuses on areas such as cross-border payments, specialized SaaS platforms, and wealthtech, aiming for automation of processes and embedded finance monetization by 2025. AI becomes essential, enabling companies to control technology, enhance customer experience, and reduce operational costs. Organizations like Chime exemplify success through proprietary infrastructure, improving data management and personalization. Ownership of technology remains key, yet effective partnerships can support early-stage businesses in data and user control. Future fintech leaders will prioritize AI integration, strategic distribution, and customer engagement to drive significant industry transformation. The emphasis will shift from merely facilitating transactions to addressing real needs and building trust through technological advancements.Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

Discover how AI is reshaping the future of fintech

A transformative approach enabling businesses to break free from restrictive cloud services and innovate without financial barriers.

A revolution in the tech industry is shifting business approaches to cloud services. Organizations experience limitations from traditional cloud providers, including high egress fees and restricted options. Growing demand for open cloud solutions enables businesses to select storage, computing, and AI services from various providers without incurring excessive costs. Many companies transition to specialized alternatives that present cost savings and compatibility with existing systems, enhancing budget control and innovation. The cloud sector evolves from Cloud 1.0, marked by vendor lock-in, to Cloud 2.0, characterized by interoperability and diverse services.&nbsp; Egress fees act as barriers for data movement, increasing expenses and limiting flexibility. Major cloud providers face criticism for vendor lock-in tactics, and although some propose eliminating egress fees, they often maintain restrictions. This situation emphasizes the necessity for open cloud solutions that facilitate efficient data management across platforms. Open cloud allows organizations to move data freely, access the latest technologies, and optimize resources without the burden of high transfer costs, fostering innovation.&nbsp; Market demand for open cloud solutions rises, with many technology decision-makers preferring best-of-breed providers over traditional options. The anticipated shift toward open cloud solutions aims to create a more efficient, barrier-free environment that supports enterprise growth.Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

The secret shift transforming cloud computing for businesses

China escalates tensions with the U.S. by sanctioning officials over perceived interference in Hong Kong's governance and autonomy.

China plans to impose sanctions on U.S. officials, lawmakers, and NGO leaders in response to U.S. sanctions against six Chinese and Hong Kong officials. The U.S. sanctioned these individuals due to their roles in actions undermining Hong Kong's autonomy. Details on the U.S. officials targeted by China's sanctions remain unspecified. China's foreign ministry condemned the U.S. actions, claiming interference in Hong Kong matters and violations of international law. This cycle of sanctions reflects rising tensions between China and the U.S. amid ongoing trade disputes. Beijing has warned other countries against unfavorable trade agreements. Since the implementation of the national security law in 2020, numerous Hong Kong activists have faced prosecution, and authorities have issued arrest warrants for activists abroad. The Chinese government asserts that the security law is necessary for regional stability.Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

China's surprising response to US sanctions on Hong Kong officials

Investors Hesitate to Back Energy Startups Amid Surging Global Power Demand and Changing Market Dynamics

Energy consumption increases globally, with global power demand rising by 2.2% last year, surpassing the average annual increase for the past decade. Predictions indicate that this trend will continue due to the scaling of AI platforms, rising demand in emerging economies, and increased use of air conditioning. Despite this growing demand, global investment in energy startups reached its lowest level in four years in 2024, starting off slow in the first quarter. However, notable investment activity occurred in April, including a $258 million Series F round for Mainspring Energy and a $500 million investment for Silicon Ranch's solar projects. Base Power secured $200 million for battery backup solutions. Investment in energy efficiency and infrastructure increased, exemplified by The Stargate Project, which plans to invest $500 billion in AI infrastructure over four years, with $100 billion designated for immediate initiatives. The energy startup sector shows potential for a rebound, as historical trends indicate capacity for large investments, particularly in fusion technology.Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

Why are energy startups missing out on funding despite rising power demand

Dollar's decline signals potential shift in global economic confidence amid trade turbulence and political uncertainty under Trump's leadership.

Rising tariffs correlate with a decline in the U.S. dollar, indicating potential loss of confidence in the U.S. economy. The dollar decreased by 9% against other currencies since mid-January, reaching its lowest point in three years. This shift suggests investor distrust as tariffs alter global trade dynamics. Historically, decreased demand for foreign goods due to tariffs would strengthen the dollar, but the current weakening poses risks for U.S. economic growth and living standards. Increased import costs from countries like France and South Korea may affect consumers. The ballooning federal debt at 120% of GDP could lead to higher interest rates, as global considerations for alternatives to the dollar gain traction. Discussions around cryptocurrencies and yuan-denominated trade agreements further highlight concerns about the dollar's future as a reserve currency. Furthermore, fluctuating international perceptions of U.S. trade policy, particularly under President Trump's tariffs, introduce uncertainty that may impact economic credibility.Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

Is the Dollar Losing Its Trustworthiness Under Trump

Affordable renting offers financial freedom, highlighting stark contrasts between cities like Bismarck and expensive markets like Miami.

Rent costs have increased significantly over the past decade, affecting the accessibility of various cities. A recent WalletHub report analyzed rental affordability across 182 U.S. cities, comparing median annual gross rent to median household income. Bismarck, North Dakota, ranks as the most affordable city, with rents at approximately 15.3% of median income. The average salary in Bismarck is $69,989, while average rent is about $1,023 monthly. Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Cheyenne, Wyoming, follow in affordability, with residents spending around 16% of their income on rent. Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Fargo, North Dakota, complete the top five. In contrast, Glendale, California, ranks as the least affordable city, with Miami, Florida, at the bottom, where renters spend about 33.48% of their income on rent. This assessment suggests that lower rent costs in affordable areas enable residents to allocate more funds toward savings or emergencies.Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

Discover the Surprising Cities Where Renting is Most Affordable

Google faces legal consequences as a judge highlights its monopolistic practices in the online advertising sector.

Google has faced a ruling in a partial antitrust case regarding its online advertising practices. A judge found that Google engaged in monopolistic behavior in specific markets, supporting claims that its dominance harmed competitors and limited consumer choices. This ruling may lead to new limitations on Google's advertising practices and require changes to promote fair competition. This case highlights the ongoing scrutiny of big tech's influence across industries.Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

Google's Antitrust Bang or Whimper

Japan's escalating trade surplus with the U.S. highlights tensions in tariff negotiations amid broader economic challenges.

Japan reports a trade deficit of 5.2 trillion yen, approximately 37 billion dollars, for the fiscal year ending in March while achieving a trade surplus of 9 trillion yen, around 63 billion dollars, with the United States. This surplus prompts discussions between U.S. President Donald Trump and Japanese officials amid proposed higher U.S. tariffs. Japan currently faces a 10% baseline tariff and a 25% tariff on car imports, alongside tariffs on steel and aluminum. Analysts indicate that Japan may explore compromises, including increasing imports of American rice to address supply shortages. Over the past year, Japan's exports grew by 5.9%, driven by strong computer chip and vehicle sales, while imports rose by 4.7%. The weaker yen impacts the cost of imported goods. In March, Japan's trade surplus reached 544 billion yen, roughly 4 billion dollars. Exports to the U.S. increased by 3%, and shipments to Asia rose by 5.5%, while exports to China declined due to tariff avoidance strategies with the U.S.Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

Is Japan's trade surplus with the US a sign of bigger economic changes?

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