SpaceX and Perplexity plan blockbuster IPOs
SpaceX is planning a $75 billion IPO, marking the largest in history and potentially making Elon Musk a trillionaire. Perplexity AI has announced plans to go public in 2028. These offerings represent a wave of mega-IPOs from AI and tech companies expected to reshape the NASDAQ landscape.
Artificial intelligence is fueling a hiring boom, but opportunities are concentrated among experienced professionals rather than newcomers. In Asia, the rapid adoption of AI has opened new avenues for cyberthreats including scams and deepfakes. Meanwhile, companies like Cognizant are experimenting with AI on workplace communications in a $200 million initiative.
AI-related stocks continued their volatile decline, whipsawing markets and dragging Wall Street back into a downturn. Oracle's stock slid following earnings reports, as investors grow wary of the steep costs associated with AI investments. The ongoing sell-off reflects growing uncertainty about AI valuations and returns.
U.S. inflation has surged above 4% for the first time in three years, driven primarily by a sharp spike in gasoline and energy prices. The increase is linked to geopolitical tensions, including the U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran. Households and businesses are feeling the strain of higher energy costs, which have pushed inflation to its highest level since early 2023.