TLDR:
- CBA introduces digital travel and vehicle features.
- US venture capital funding reaches highest level in two years due to AI deals.
The article discusses a variety of updates in the technology and finance sectors. CBA has incorporated digital travel and vehicle features for its customers, aiming to enhance user experience. In the US, venture capital funding has surged to its highest level in two years, largely driven by AI deals. Diraq’s Series A funding has increased to US$22 million, while FinTech Australia has reported a rise in open banking use cases. SoftBank’s CEO has expressed ambitions for artificial super intelligence, and Asahi Beverages has achieved a 23 percent ROI.
Apple has decided to partner with third parties like Affirm for its ‘buy now, pay later’ offering after discontinuing its own product. GameStop’s shares have fallen following the announcement that its store network will shrink, without providing specifics on its plans for excess cash. ACS has developed a faster migration application turnaround process for skilled professionals, and Fintech Bridgit has raised $14.6m in a Series A round led by OIF Ventures.
KPMG Australia has introduced KymTax to enhance tax tasks for its professionals, while Beyond Bank and P&N have merged to provide a seamless experience. The QLD government is supporting Starlink satellite deployment to bridge the digital gap for remote communities. HostPlus, Hesta, QIC, and CSL are backing Brandon Capital in a new $270 million round, with plans to engage new investors. Forrester predicts that global IT sector investment could reach $2 trillion by 2028.
Elon Musk’s xAI has secured $6 billion in fresh funding, with support from investors like Andreessen Horowitz and Sequoia Capital. The article also highlights video content, including Cirque Du Soleil’s use of customer data for show revamping, Australia’s stance on CBDC adoption, and Powerledger’s platform expansion. Additionally, popular tech stories like NAB’s live-streamed platform conclusion and ATO’s Medicare data ingestion for levy exemption verification are covered.
