QUICKREADS

Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains delayed? Indian Railways flags furnishing issues

The launch of India's first sixteen-car Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains may be delayed due to furnishing and workmanship issues, as highlighted by the Railway Board. Problems include sharp edges and inadequate cleaning features. Compliance with fire-safety and communication measures is mandated, along with training for staff and ensuring passenger comfort and safety.

OpenAI, Amazon strike $38-billion deal for ChatGPT to use AWS

Amazon.com Inc. has signed a $38-billion deal to provide OpenAI with cloud computing services and access to Nvidia graphics processors for AI model training. The agreement highlights the growing demand for computing power in the AI industry. OpenAI is transitioning from its nonprofit roots and preparing for a potential IPO, amidst concerns of an AI bubble due to high valuations.

Pine Labs reduces IPO size, sets price band for a valuation of nearly $3 billion

Pine Labs Ltd. has scaled down its IPO, aiming for a valuation exceeding Rs 25,300 crore. The offering includes 17.64 crore shares priced between Rs 210-221, targeting Rs 3,900 crore. Proceeds will fund debt repayment and global expansion. Despite a net loss of Rs 145 crore in FY25, revenue rose 27.5%, indicating potential profitability.

Gold-Silver rates in India today: MCX gold, silver rise—check city-wise rates

Gold prices surged to a record high in October but fell sharply towards the month's end, still up over 50% year-to-date. In India, gold and silver prices rose amid a weaker dollar and strong local demand. Analysts predict gold may range between Rs 1,21,000 to Rs 1,21,800 per 10 gm, while silver faces resistance at Rs 49,50 per kg.

Has Airbnb reached its peak?

Airbnb's growth has stagnated, with a 10% increase in bookings over the past year, but analysts predict a slowdown in upcoming earnings. The company is expanding into new markets and product lines, including hotel bookings and experiences, to rekindle growth. Despite challenges from competitors and regulatory restrictions, Airbnb's market value surpasses that of Marriott.

Nidec Shares and Bonds Slide on Removal From Japan Equity Gauges

Nidec Corp.'s shares plummeted 19% in Tokyo after being flagged for removal from the Nikkei 225 and Topix Index due to accounting issues involving senior executives. The company's bonds also saw significant spread widening. Nidec will be replaced in the indices by Ibiden Co., whose shares surged. Analysts predict continued struggles for Nidec until the investigation concludes.

What market corrections teach long-term investors about discipline

Market corrections are essential in investing, often revealing market realities and testing investor conviction. In India, despite global uncertainties, strong domestic growth driven by structural reforms and increased consumer spending offers long-term opportunities. The case of Force Motors exemplifies the value of patience and fundamental analysis in navigating downturns, emphasizing that true wealth comes from enduring cycles of fear and greed.

Investor demand for Japan’s two-year bonds rise after Bank of Japan policy

Japan's two-year government bond auction saw strong demand, with a bid-to-cover ratio of 4.35, indicating investor confidence amid speculation that the Bank of Japan will maintain low interest rates. The two-year yield fell to 0.91%, while expectations for a rate hike by January remain. The yen weakened against the dollar, adding pressure on the BOJ.

Big Tech banks on artificial intelligence to drive growth amid job cuts

Big Tech companies, including Amazon and Tata Consultancy Services, are cutting jobs while investing in artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance efficiency and innovation. Amazon plans to lay off 30,000 employees due to over-hiring during the pandemic. Analysts note that while AI is seen as a future driver of profits, the effectiveness of these investments will ultimately determine market confidence.

Big Tech Is Spending More Than Ever on AI and It’s Still Not Enough

Silicon Valley giants are set to invest $400 billion in AI this year, citing rising demand. Meta faces capacity constraints, while Microsoft plans to double its data centers. Amazon rushes to expand cloud services. Investors react mixed; Google and Amazon see positive responses, while Meta and Microsoft face skepticism. The race for artificial general intelligence fuels urgency in spending.

Canva’s Creative OS and Affinity app lay foundations for an ‘imagination era’

Canva is launching a major update called "Your Creative OS," featuring a triple-layer structure that integrates a vast content library, AI tools, and a Visual Suite for various design needs. With over 260 million users and a $42 billion valuation, Canva emphasizes advanced video editing and AI capabilities. The recent acquisition of Affinity aims to unify creative applications into a single interface, enhancing design workflows.

Some Reliance Jio users to get free Google Gemini Pro access for 18 months — how to claim

Reliance Jio has partnered with Google to provide eligible 5G users aged 18-25 with 18 months of free access to the Gemini Pro AI service, valued at ₹35,100. This initiative, available via the MyJio app, aims to enhance Jio's digital ecosystem and leverage AI capabilities, while potentially increasing user retention and attracting younger subscribers.

An OpenAI IPO at $1-trillion valuation? Sam Altman said to begin work for 2026 listing

OpenAI Inc. is preparing for a potential IPO, aiming for a valuation of up to $1 trillion, possibly launching in late 2026 or 2027. CEO Sam Altman indicated that going public is a likely path due to capital needs. The move comes amid a booming AI market, with OpenAI seeking to reduce reliance on Microsoft and raise funds for AI infrastructure.

Google clocks first $100-billion quarter amid ‘full-stack approach to AI’

Alphabet Inc. achieved its first $100 billion quarter, reporting $102.3 billion in revenue, driven by growth in Google Search, Google Cloud, and YouTube. CEO Sundar Pichai highlighted the company’s AI strategy and strong performance across all sectors. With significant investments in data centers and AI, Alphabet's stock rose 2.7%, reflecting investor confidence.

Too Much Experience Hurts You in Today’s Tough Job Market

Mid-career professionals face challenges as companies like Amazon and Target cut white-collar jobs, creating a "no-man's-land" for those deemed overqualified. With employers now prioritizing cost-cutting, seasoned workers struggle to find roles, often facing rejection for their extensive experience. Job seekers are advised to tailor resumes to fit job requirements and emphasize relevant, recent experience to improve their chances.