GREY Journal Daily News Podcast

The five leading technology companies—Apple, Microsoft, Nvidia, Amazon, and Alphabet—possess significant funds for startup investments but did not invest extensively in 2024. They participated in 149 known startup financings of one million dollars or more last year, marking a slight increase from 2023 but remaining the second-lowest total in five years. Notable funding rounds occurred in the AI sector, with OpenAI receiving $6.6 billion, Waymo attracting $5.6 billion, and Anthropic securing $4 billion. Alphabet led in deal count, overseeing 87 rounds, while Apple did not engage in any disclosed rounds in 2024. As 2025 approaches, there are indicators of potential growth in startup investments, driven by cash reserves and stock performance, despite uncertainties regarding actual investment activity. Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/

Honda and Nissan announced plans to merge, creating the world's third-largest automaker by sales. The merger aims to unify operations under a joint holding company, with Honda initially leading management. The goal is to finalize the agreement by June 2024 and list the company on the Tokyo Stock Exchange by August 2026. No financial details were disclosed, but the merger could result in a combined market value exceeding $50 billion. Foxconn showed interest in acquiring shares from Nissan's alliance partner Renault, but Nissan denied any negotiations. Toyota remains the leading Japanese automaker with approximately 11.5 million vehicle sales in 2023, while the combined output of Honda, Nissan, and Mitsubishi would total around 8 million. Recent financial struggles for Nissan included a reduction of 9,000 jobs and a $61 million net quarterly loss. Fitch Ratings downgraded Nissan's credit outlook due to declining profitability, while Nissan's shares rose by 1.6% and Honda's by 3.8% following the merger announcement.Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/

A government shutdown in the U.S. could result in significant economic losses, potentially costing $6 billion weekly. An analysis by EY indicates that a shutdown would disrupt federal services, negatively impacting various sectors. Federal contracts and programs would see halts, affecting small businesses dependent on government work. Funding delays could slow projects that drive economic growth. Furloughed government employees would decrease consumer spending, leading to broader economic repercussions. Concerns arise regarding both the immediate and long-term effects, as instability in government may reduce confidence among entrepreneurs and investors.Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/

Workers at Starbucks plan a five-day strike starting on Friday, December 20, 2024, due to stalled contract negotiations. The strike will commence in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle, with potential expansion to more stores by Christmas Eve. Starbucks Workers United represents employees at 535 U.S. company-owned stores and states that Starbucks has failed to finalize a labor agreement despite earlier commitments. The union also seeks resolutions to various legal issues, including unfair labor practices. The company's proposed economic package includes no immediate wage increases and a minimal future increase for unionized baristas. Starbucks asserts that the union ended a bargaining session too soon but remains open to negotiations. The company operates nearly 10,000 U.S. stores and claims to provide significant pay and benefits to eligible baristas. Previous strike activities occurred during the holiday season, notably on Red Cup Day in November, reflecting ongoing tensions between the union and the company despite earlier optimism about reaching agreement.Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/

OpenAI launched a feature that enables U.S. users to call ChatGPT directly from their phones using the number 1-800-CHATGPT. This feature allows users to access the AI chatbot for assistance on various topics, demonstrated through a YouTube livestream. Upon calling, users hear a greeting and can receive help with identifying landmarks and translating phrases. Each phone number offers 15 free minutes of use, with no current plans to charge for the service. Global users can connect via WhatsApp using the same number. The service does not require account creation and is part of OpenAI's "12 Days of OpenAI" event, which also includes updates such as ChatGPT Search and the public release of the text-to-video generator Sora.Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/

The AI chip market is evolving as new competitors challenge Nvidia's 90% dominance. Companies are producing custom chips tailored for specific industry needs. This customization enhances performance in areas like machine learning, data analytics, and automation. The emergence of these players indicates a rising demand for specialized technology, potentially fostering innovation and lowering consumer prices in the market.Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/

In 2025, individuals express eagerness about advancements in artificial intelligence and automation, recognizing their potential to improve efficiency and productivity. At the same time, there exists concern regarding privacy issues, security risks, and the ethical implications of AI decision-making. Technological dependence raises fears about job displacement and the impact on human skills. Stakeholders prioritize the need for regulations to address these challenges while exploring opportunities for innovation and growth. The balance between embracing technological benefits and managing risks emerges as a central theme.Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/

The Federal Reserve has reduced the federal funds rate by 0.25%, bringing the target range to 4.25% to 4.5%. This marks the third interest rate cut for the year, following reductions of 50 basis points in September and 25 basis points in November. The decision came after assessment of economic risks and inflation by the Federal Open Market Committee. Lower rates typically lead to reduced borrowing costs for consumer loans, including credit cards and personal loans. However, experts indicate that the recent rate cut will not impact mortgage rates, which currently stand at an average of 7.13% for a 30-year fixed mortgage. Factors like rising 10-year Treasury bonds influence mortgage rates, leading to a lag in lower residential loan rates. Future rate cuts will depend on incoming economic data.Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/

Oscar Mayer seeks drivers for its 27-foot-long Wienermobile, known as "Hotdoggers." This program started in 1988 and aims to engage customers and enhance social media presence. Applicants need a valid driver's license and must have a Bachelor's degree, preferably in communications-related fields, although other disciplines are accepted. The contract lasts 12 months, beginning in June, and includes two weeks of training and meetings with various teams. The application period ends on January 31, with only 12 positions available, making the selection competitive with less than 1% of applicants expected to be hired. The annual salary is $35,600, with up to $7,200 in weekly allowances for expenses. The position provides 18 days of paid time off, hotel accommodations, and health benefits.Learn more on this news visit us at: https://greyjournal.net/