GREY Journal Daily News Podcast

Companies are integrating artificial intelligence to streamline operations and reallocate staff to higher-value work, prompting employee concerns about job security, adaptation, and the effectiveness of new technologies. Consultants recommend involving diverse employee groups in planning and implementation, maintaining transparent communication about objectives and timelines, and soliciting feedback to address usability and workflow issues. Industry examples show that excluding end users from technology decisions can lead to resistance and inefficiency, while open dialogue and inclusion support smoother transitions and better adoption outcomes.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aston Martin partnered with Pirelli to equip its vehicles with Cyber Tyre technology, which uses embedded sensors to collect and transmit real-time data on tire pressure, temperature, and load. The system enables vehicles to adapt to changing road conditions, alert drivers to potential issues, and support predictive maintenance. This collaboration reflects a broader industry trend toward connected vehicles and intelligent systems focused on safety, efficiency, and data-driven solutions.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fort Hood hosted its annual Technology Expo, where over two dozen vendors presented advancements in artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, and cybersecurity to soldiers and civilians. Attendees engaged with interactive exhibits, including the BILT mobile app's 3D features compatible with Apple Vision Pro, and provided feedback to technology developers such as Gemstar Manufacturing. Army representatives highlighted the event's role in supporting modernization efforts and practical technology implementation. Organizers collaborated with military and vendor contacts to ensure the expo addressed current defense technology needs, featuring solutions like AI applications, unmanned vehicles, cybersecurity platforms, augmented reality tools, and protective packaging.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Midlevel associates at major law firms report dissatisfaction with outdated laptops, slow software, and inadequate remote access, despite increased investments in artificial intelligence. Over half of surveyed Am Law 200 firms had associates who identified technology as a primary concern, with specific complaints directed at firms such as Cahill Gordon & Reindel, Paul Hastings, Dechert, and Morrison & Foerster. Some firms, including O'Melveny & Myers and Morgan Lewis & Bockius, received positive recognition for providing reliable technology and support. The survey results highlight a gap between advanced tech initiatives and the need for functional, everyday tools to support productivity.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

College Drive Center LLC, led by Oliver and Monica Montagnet, purchased a 47,000-square-foot retail center on College Drive in Baton Rouge for $6.8 million from Bright-Meyers Baton Rouge Associates, which previously bought the property for $10 million in 2003. The center includes Walmart as an anchor tenant and long-term businesses such as Office Depot and Sally Beauty. Earlier this year, Bright-Meyers sold Capital One and IHOP outparcels on the property for $5.2 million. The Montagnets also own other commercial properties in Louisiana, and the sale was brokered by Marcus & Millichap representatives Zach Taylor, Eric Abbott, and Steve Greer.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Microsoft introduced a prototype analog optical computer that uses light to perform calculations, aiming to make artificial intelligence tasks up to one hundred times more energy efficient. The system leverages micro-LEDs and camera sensors to process information in the analog domain, reducing energy consumption and overcoming digital speed limitations. The prototype matched digital computers in image classification and, through a digital twin model, reconstructed brain scan images with less data. The technology also outperformed some quantum computers in financial optimization tasks. Microsoft plans to scale the system to handle more variables as hardware advances.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rimac Technology introduced new solid-state battery systems, advanced e-axles, and centralized electronic control units at IAA Mobility. The company partnered with ProLogium and Mitsubishi Chemical Group for battery development and showcased hybrid battery platforms with flexible configurations. Rimac presented the SINTEG 300 and 550 eAxles, offering high power and torque density, and announced the High Torque XXL Axle for series production in 2026. The new electronics feature domain and zonal ECUs powered by NXP processors, enabling centralized vehicle architectures. All technologies will be produced at Rimac's facilities in Croatia, supporting high-volume manufacturing for global automotive OEMs.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Global energy investment is projected to reach $2.2 trillion in 2025, with key trends including a focus on energy security, affordability, and job creation. China leads global investment in renewables, storage, and nuclear technologies, while India surpasses renewable energy targets and expands domestic manufacturing. Decarbonization remains a priority for businesses and governments, with practical timelines and an emphasis on reducing local pollution. Artificial intelligence is driving increased electricity demand from data centers, influencing site selection and power strategies. Industry collaboration and a mix of technologies, including storage, nuclear, clean fuels, hydrogen, and carbon removal, are essential for advancing the energy transition.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Volkswagen is developing in-house battery technology through its subsidiary PowerCo, constructing cell factories in Germany, Spain, and Canada to secure supply chains for electric vehicles. The company is introducing a unified cell format for use in most of its electric vehicles by 2030 to streamline production and reduce costs. Volkswagen is partnering with QuantumScape to advance solid-state battery technology, achieving test results of 95 percent capacity retention after 1,000 charging cycles. The company is expanding its charging infrastructure to 850,000 points in Europe and developing comprehensive charging ecosystems, including home and public solutions, as well as bidirectional charging and vehicle-to-grid integration. Volkswagen's subsidiary Elli is building stationary energy storage systems to support energy supply and demand.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pepper acquired Kimelo to integrate its vertical distribution toolset with Pepper's AI-powered platform, aiming to help independent foodservice distributors streamline operations, manage customer relationships, and optimize sales. The combined platform provides enhanced digital tools for ordering, management, and revenue growth. Pepper's CEO Bowie Cheung and Kimelo's CEO Kim Spalding stated the acquisition will support distributors in adapting to industry complexity, consolidation, and changing customer needs by leveraging AI and ecommerce technology.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Countries are prioritizing energy security, cost, and job creation in their energy investment strategies, with China and India making significant advances in renewables, storage, and manufacturing. Global clean energy investment is projected to reach $2.2 trillion in 2025, while decarbonization and emission reduction remain important goals for governments and companies. Artificial intelligence is driving increased electricity demand, particularly in data centers, leading to more onsite power generation and continued commitments to sustainability. Collaboration across industries and technologies is underway to accelerate the deployment of advanced energy solutions.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stablecoins, backed by currencies or government bonds, are enabling low-cost, cross-border transactions and expanding financial access globally. Their adoption is accelerating due to new legislation, with significant use in high-inflation countries. Experts identify risks including dollarization, capital flow volatility, weakened banking systems, and increased financial crime. Regulatory frameworks have not kept pace with innovation, as nonbank firms and AI-driven lenders reshape financial services. Governments and central banks are introducing fast payment systems, such as India's Unified Payments Interface, to compete with private sector innovation. Authorities are focusing on balancing innovation, consumer protection, and crime prevention as stablecoins and digital assets become more prominent in global finance.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stablecoins, digital assets backed by currencies or government bonds, are being adopted for fast, low-cost global payments, especially in high-inflation economies. New legislation in the US and other countries is accelerating adoption. Risks include increased dollarization, capital flow volatility, weakened banking systems, and potential for financial crime. Fintech and technology companies are challenging traditional banks, while governments are developing advanced payment systems such as India's Unified Payments Interface. Nonbank institutions are leveraging AI and big data for lending, prompting calls for updated regulations to balance innovation, consumer protection, and financial stability.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Startup founders are increasingly choosing to bootstrap their companies instead of seeking venture capital, citing benefits such as retaining control, reducing equity dilution, and focusing on sustainable growth. Kikoff, Stacker, and Chatbase are among the companies that have scaled by prioritizing customer needs and organic growth over external funding. Founders report that venture capital incentives can sometimes conflict with building long-term business stability, and cite examples of successful tech companies that began with bootstrapping. The trend is supported by advancements in technology, particularly artificial intelligence, which lower barriers to entry and enable more entrepreneurs to launch and grow businesses independently.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Munz leaves his role leading venture capital activities and innovation initiatives at Kärcher after more than three years and joins Thieme Group as Head of Future Learning, where he will oversee educational innovation strategy for the German medical and science publisher.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries by automating tasks, improving data analysis, and accelerating innovation in sectors such as healthcare, logistics, and manufacturing. Machine learning is advancing disease diagnosis and drug discovery, while AI models are reducing time-to-market and costs in research and development. Data shows that 98 percent of companies feel increased pressure to adopt AI, and 85 percent believe they must implement a strategy within 18 months to avoid negative business impacts. Only 13 percent of organizations report being fully prepared to leverage AI, citing challenges with IT infrastructure, computing power, network optimization, cybersecurity, observability, and data quality. Companies are advised to invest in scalable infrastructure, enhance data management, and develop talent to remain competitive.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

OpenAI expanded from a nonprofit to a $90 billion company by adopting rapid scaling and commercialization strategies, shaped by internal competition among three groups. The company uses data labeled by low-paid workers in developing countries and requires significant energy for AI training, leading to ethical and environmental concerns. Competition with China has driven increased investment and reinforced the dominance of major technology firms. Founders and investors are evaluating alternative business models that address ethical and societal impacts.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nvidia leads the global technology sector in artificial intelligence and data center solutions, while Microsoft advances cloud and AI integration through Azure, Microsoft 365, and partnerships with OpenAI. Apple maintains its position in consumer technology with its ecosystem and investments in spatial computing and privacy-focused AI. Alphabet leverages its dominance in digital advertising, search, and YouTube, and invests in artificial intelligence and autonomous technology. Amazon drives growth with its e-commerce platform and Amazon Web Services, offering cloud and AI solutions. Meta invests in social media, virtual reality, and AI development. Broadcom and TSMC provide critical semiconductor and infrastructure technologies for major industries. Tesla advances electric vehicles, energy storage, and clean energy infrastructure. Oracle delivers enterprise software and cloud solutions for organizations worldwide.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Starbucks is implementing artificial intelligence technology to automate inventory counting in its stores, using image recognition and data analytics to improve accuracy and efficiency. The AI system reduces manual labor, provides real-time stock insights, and supports more informed purchasing and supply chain decisions. This move reflects a broader trend of digital transformation and automation within the food and beverage industry.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MrBeast, also known as Jimmy Donaldson, plans to launch a mobile virtual network operator by partnering with established telecom carriers to offer affordable phone plans. Reports indicate the company may also explore fintech and mobile gaming services. This move follows MrBeast's expansion into other business ventures, including snack brand Feastables and a toy line. While his YouTube channel has a large following, his media business has not turned a profit, with recent losses offset by gains from his snack business.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Saia, a less-than-truckload carrier, is investing $2 billion over five years to upgrade its network, technology, and workforce, with net capital spending on technology rising to $64 million in 2024. The company evaluates each technology investment for measurable productivity and alignment with its customer-first strategy, focusing on enhanced network visibility, improved predictive capacity planning, and streamlined customer interfaces for 2025 and 2026. Saia adopts new technologies, including AI, only when they support its core strengths of speed, reliability, and customer service, while competitors such as XPO, ArcBest, and Landstar System implement AI for route optimization and cargo theft prevention.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dolby announced Dolby Vision 2, an upgrade to its HDR technology, featuring AI-powered Content Intelligence for real-time picture optimization based on content and room lighting. The update includes Precision Black for improved clarity in dark scenes, Light Sense for ambient light detection, and new enhancements for sports and gaming. Dolby Vision 2 introduces bi-directional tone mapping and Authentic Motion for creative-driven motion control. The technology will be available in two tiers, with Hisense as the first TV brand to adopt it and Canal+ as the first media group to enhance its content with Dolby Vision 2.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Venture capitalists are increasingly investing in cryptocurrency startups with predictable and sustainable revenue streams rather than speculative projects. This shift aims to reduce risk, attract institutional investors, and address regulatory requirements. Key areas of interest include blockchain infrastructure, payment platforms, and decentralized finance protocols that generate consistent fees. Founders are advised to focus on transparency, compliance, and robust business models to improve fundraising prospects.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

UK venture capital deal volume dropped by 14 percent and funding value by 11 percent in the first seven months of 2025 compared to the previous year, driven by macroeconomic factors and a shift toward quality investments. The UK remains among the top five global VC markets, accounting for 7 percent of global deals and 4 percent of global deal value. Major 2025 UK deals include $600 million for Isomorphic Labs, $411 million for Verdiva Bio, $350 million for PS Miner, $300 million for Rapyd, $200 million for CMR Surgical, $180 million for Synthesia, and $160 million for Xelix. The technology and healthcare sectors continue to attract significant investment, and analysts indicate the market is moving toward more disciplined capital allocation.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

GitLab integrates artificial intelligence with human expertise to secure software development for organizations across industries. Julie Davila, Vice President of Product Security, leads efforts to protect the platform and software supply chains by automating security tasks and maintaining human oversight. GitLab advises organizations to inventory AI touchpoints, document model usage, and conduct AI-specific incident exercises to meet regulatory requirements. The company encourages upskilling security teams in prompt engineering and hands-on defense against AI-driven threats. GitLab implements secure integration patterns and treats AI agents as privileged identities to ensure accountability and prevent security risks, enabling organizations to adopt AI safely while maintaining compliance.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cineverse partnered with Undue Medical Debt for the reboot of The Toxic Avenger, pledging to erase at least five million dollars in medical debt for Americans. For every million dollars earned at the box office, another million in debt will be eliminated. The campaign uses donations to purchase and forgive bundled medical debt portfolios for those in need. The initiative aligns with the film's plot, which features a character facing high medical expenses, and highlights ongoing national concerns about healthcare costs. Similar charitable efforts have occurred in past film promotions, but this campaign is notable for its scale and direct relevance to the movie's themes.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A global survey of 2,500 employees and IT leaders across ten countries found that 51% of employees believe AI could replace physical offices, with 62% preferring AI-enhanced remote work and 71% citing improved work-life balance. Sixty-six percent report equal productivity from any location, and 65% say AI improves remote customer service. A disconnect exists between IT leaders, 91% of whom believe AI is used effectively, and employees, with only 53% agreeing. Generational data shows high reported productivity gains from AI across age groups. Sixty-one percent of employees prefer investment in AI over office perks, prompting leaders to reconsider budget allocations and assess the ROI, compliance, and integration of AI tools in the workplace.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cisco has partnered with Italy's Luna Rossa sailing team as the Official Secure AI Infrastructure Partner for the 38th America's Cup in 2027. Luna Rossa will use Cisco's AI-powered security and technology platform to protect digital assets and support real-time decision-making during the competition. The partnership expands Cisco's involvement in sports technology, which includes collaborations with the NFL, LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and McLaren Formula 1 Team. Luna Rossa has previously competed in six America's Cup editions, winning the Louis Vuitton Cup in 2000 and the PRADA Cup in 2021.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Space Kinetic received an investment from CerraCap Ventures, a firm known for supporting technology and health sector startups. The funding is aimed at advancing Space Kinetic's development of orbital logistics solutions to improve the movement of materials and equipment in space. This investment is expected to accelerate technological progress in the space industry and expand Space Kinetic's role in the growing market for space-based services.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pennsylvania counties and municipalities are investing in Main Street revitalization to support small businesses facing rising costs, changing consumer habits, and disaster recovery challenges. Allegheny County has allocated $1.5 million in new funding and expanded its Allegheny Together program, which has invested $6 million in 23 communities for strategic planning, façade improvements, and pedestrian upgrades. Small businesses in Allegheny County employ about 150,000 people across 18,000 establishments. Many towns, such as Carnegie Borough, do not qualify for certain aid programs and rely on county and local partnerships to maintain Main Streets as economic and community centers.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI and automation are being integrated into modern vehicles through advanced safety systems, real-time connectivity, and automated features, with new standards set in the US and Europe. Accident rates remain high, and drivers are adapting to new technologies with varying levels of trust and understanding. Vehicle repairs have become more complex and costly due to increased electronic components, and electric vehicles require more labor-intensive repairs. Insurance claims processes are shifting to digital and AI-powered tools, enabling faster assessments and streamlined coordination. Industry investments in AI are increasing, and companies are focusing on responsible adoption, affordability, skilled labor, and privacy protection as post-accident processes become more digital and interconnected.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

India opened a new consulate in downtown Seattle, attended by state and city leaders and the Indian Ambassador to the U.S. The consulate, located in the Federal Reserve Building, serves tech companies, investors, and professionals in the Pacific Northwest and several other states. Seattle has a large Asian Indian population, and over 40 percent of foreign-born IT workers in the area are from India. The consulate has provided services to over 23,000 applicants and hosted cultural events such as the India Day Parade. The opening coincides with increased scrutiny of U.S. immigration policies, with many Indian tech workers relying on H-1B visas. Amazon and Microsoft are major employers of H-1B holders in the region. The consulate is expected to facilitate visa and immigration services and strengthen business ties between Seattle and India.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

T-Mobile announced executive changes as Ulf Ewaldsson retires as president of technology, with John Saw assuming expanded leadership of the network team. Callie Field will step down as president of the business group but remain as a strategic advisor until March 2026. André Almeida, a board member, has been appointed president of growth and emerging businesses, overseeing broadband, advertising, financial services, enterprise, and government units starting September 1.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Businesses are rapidly adopting AI and digital marketing tools, but many are making mistakes such as prioritizing technology over strategy, experiencing declining organic reach on social platforms, and facing reduced effectiveness of traditional SEO due to AI-driven search results. Companies are advised to align technology choices with business needs, balance organic and paid campaigns, adapt content for AI discovery, and ensure human oversight to maintain brand authenticity.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adva Growth is investing in small and medium-sized businesses in northern and southern Israel, focusing on companies with up to 50 million shekels in enterprise value and positive cash flow. The firm targets operational and manufacturing businesses in sectors such as services, retail, advanced agriculture, and tourism. Led by Edward Misrahi and CEO Yaniv Rivlin, Adva Growth provides both financial backing and professional guidance, developing tailored investment frameworks in collaboration with entrepreneurs. The company is negotiating with several businesses in the periphery and is close to its first investment in a Tel Aviv business planning to expand to these regions. Adva Growth operates with support from the Or Movement, aiming to drive economic revitalization in the Negev and Galilee.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Colorado's small businesses face a shortage of affordable, right-sized warehouse space due to a focus on large-scale industrial development, resulting in limited options for expansion and efficient operations. Vacancy rates for smaller warehouses remain low, forcing businesses to operate from inadequate locations or turn down opportunities. This shortage affects job creation, tax revenue, and community development, with some companies relocating to states offering better infrastructure. Co-warehousing models, such as those offered by WareSpace, provide flexible, all-inclusive solutions for small businesses, supporting growth and operational efficiency. Experts recommend updating zoning policies and incentivizing the development of smaller industrial units to address the infrastructure gap and support Colorado's economic growth.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TechCrunch will announce the 2025 Startup Battlefield 200 list on August 27, 2025, featuring selected early-stage startups that will present at Disrupt 2025 in San Francisco from October 27 to 29. The event will include live pitches and demonstrations, with the Top 20 finalists competing for a $100,000 prize and the Disrupt Cup. Previous winners include Salva Health, recognized for early breast cancer detection technology, and geCKo Materials, noted for advancements in adhesive technology. The program is led by Isabelle Johannessen and is sponsored by Google Cloud.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The U.S. Small Business Administration, the City of Selmer, and the McNairy County Chamber of Commerce are organizing a Disaster Recovery Resource Fair on September 4 at the Selmer Civic Center to provide counseling, resource booths, and disaster loan application assistance to families and businesses affected by April storms. The SBA is offering a 60-day grace period for physical damage loan applications and has set the economic injury application deadline for March 19, 2026. Assistance is available online, by phone, and through telecommunications relay services.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Colleges in New England, including Roxbury Community College and Boston University, are implementing artificial intelligence to automate routine administrative tasks, reduce operating costs, and improve campus services. AI chatbots handle common student and staff inquiries, while predictive analytics support enrollment forecasting and tuition analysis. Institutions also use AI tools to enhance cybersecurity and protect sensitive data.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EchoStor Technologies appointed Cale Anjoorian as Chief Information Officer to lead enterprise technology strategy and managed services. Anjoorian brings over 25 years of experience, including roles at Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, Elizabeth Arden, Avid Technology, and Manulife. EchoStor realigned its leadership, moving Daniel Clydesdale-Cotter to Chief Innovation Officer and Matt Hoeg continuing as Chief Technology Officer. The company is expanding its market presence in the Northeast and Tri-State areas and has recently received industry recognition, including placement on the 2025 Inc. 5000 List and several CRN awards.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Forty-two percent of Canadian small and medium-sized businesses report that another cost increase could lead to closure, with 35 percent managing finances themselves and 13 percent relying on friends or family instead of professional accountants. Only 30 percent use external financial experts, while 27 percent still depend on manual processes and just a third are fully automated. Nearly one in five business owners spend up to 40 hours monthly on financial administration, and 24 percent experienced cashflow issues in the past year. Forty-five percent believe they would be better leaders without financial admin burdens, and 35 percent say they spend more time on finance than business growth. Half of leaders find future planning nearly impossible, and only a quarter prepare for recession scenarios.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aspiration co-founder Joseph Sanberg agreed to plead guilty to wire fraud after U.S. attorneys accused him of inflating the fintech company's revenue by disguising payment sources and fabricating financial documents. Sanberg used these false claims to secure $145 million in loans and worked with board member Ibrahim AlHusseini to overstate assets, resulting in over $248 million in losses to lenders and investors. Despite the company's financial state, Sanberg continued to solicit investments into 2025.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Y Combinator filed an amicus brief supporting Epic Games in its legal dispute with Apple, stating that Apple's App Store fees and restrictions have limited startup growth and discouraged venture capital investment in app-based businesses. The dispute began when Epic Games sued Apple over its 30 percent commission and anti-steering policies. A judge ordered Apple to allow alternative payment options, but Apple imposed a 27 percent fee on those transactions, leading to further legal challenges. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for October 21.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chipotle Mexican Grill partnered with Zipline to launch Zipotle, an autonomous drone delivery service for digital orders in the Dallas area. Customers place orders through the Zipline app, and Chipotle employees prepare the food, which is delivered by electric drones that lower orders to the ground from 300 feet. The drones are designed to operate in various weather conditions, produce zero emissions, and bypass traffic and flooded roads. The initiative targets Gen Z consumers and includes a new rewards program for college students.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Venture capitalists are heavily investing in Islamic fintech, which now represents over half of total VC allocations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Small businesses are preparing for the holiday season by analyzing past sales and inventory data, optimizing e-commerce websites for increased traffic, upgrading technology and point-of-sale systems, launching early marketing campaigns using digital and AI tools, and starting seasonal hiring and training in advance to meet anticipated demand.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Google announced Gemini for Home, an AI-powered voice assistant that will replace Google Assistant on Nest smart speakers and displays starting in October. The assistant will support complex voice commands, manage tasks such as lists and reminders, and offer conversational interactions through Gemini Live, which is expected to be part of a paid subscription tier. The rollout will begin with an early access program and include both free and paid options. Google aims to compete with Amazon's Alexa Plus, while Apple has not yet introduced a similar AI-powered home assistant. The launch may coincide with new Nest hardware, and Google will use its Public Preview program to test features and ensure security for critical home devices.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Veteran Ventures Capital closed its $60 million Veterans Fund II, which was oversubscribed by 20 percent and triples the size of its first fund. The fund focuses on veteran-led companies developing dual-use technologies for defense and commercial markets, including space, autonomy, quantum sensing, robotics, edge computing, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. Portfolio companies have secured over $250 million in non-dilutive government funding. The fund attracted institutional investors such as the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation, the State of Tennessee, university endowments, and family offices. Early investments include Agile Space Industries and Turion Space, which address propulsion and satellite technology needs in defense and aerospace. Veteran Ventures Capital supports its portfolio companies with additional funding access, go-to-market strategies, and operational development.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Atlanta chocolatiers Elaine Read and Matt Weyandt of Xocolatl Small Batch Chocolate report increased operational challenges due to tariffs, as highlighted during a visit from U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock. Matt Weyandt states that tariffs function as a tax on small businesses, impacting profitability. Highland Forge, a custom metal hardware company, experiences a 40 percent sales increase by sourcing domestically. State Senator Josh McKoon explains that tariffs aim to promote domestic manufacturing and job creation. The Trump administration implements a 10 percent baseline tariff on most imports, with supporters citing economic and national security goals. Atlanta small businesses respond to tariffs with varied outcomes.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI startups in 2025 have raised $122 billion, with the United States accounting for $104 billion of the total. In the second quarter, AI companies secured $50 billion, nearly half of all venture capital invested during that period. Major deals include Meta's $14.3 billion investment in Scale AI, Anduril's $2.5 billion round led by Founders Fund, and Safe Superintelligence's $2 billion from Greenoaks, Alphabet, and Andreessen Horowitz. The sector is seeing increased investment in infrastructure-heavy AI projects, supported by a proposed $92 billion federal funding package. Overall venture capital funding has declined to $101.5 billion in the second quarter due to an ongoing IPO drought, with major AI firms such as Databricks and OpenAI remaining private. Capital is increasingly concentrated among leading AI startups, making fundraising more difficult for smaller companies, while investment firms like SoftBank, Andreessen Horowitz, Tiger Global, Sequoia, and Lightspeed continue to lead in AI investments.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fujifilm will increase prices on its cameras for US customers starting August 30, following a previous price hike just two weeks earlier. The company attributes the change to volatile global market conditions and a new 15 percent US tariff on Japanese imports. Fujifilm has not specified which camera models or lenses will be affected or the exact price increases, but confirmed that the X half and X-E5 models will not be impacted. The company is working with retailers and consumers to manage the transition.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.