DIRS.INFO The most relevant business & tech news

☆ Google, Meta executives push back against Canada online news bill
▼ + stars: | 2023-05-04 | by ( Sam Jabri-Pickett | ) www.reuters.com time to read: +2 min

[1/2] A Google logo is displayed at the entrance to the internet based company's offices in Toronto, Ontario, Canada September 9, 2018. REUTERS/Chris HelgrenTORONTO, May 3 (Reuters) - Google and Meta would withdraw access to news articles in Canada if legislation compelling internet companies to pay news publishers is passed, company executives told Canadian lawmakers on Wednesday. Meta would also end the availability of news content in Canada if the bill is passed as currently drafted, said Rachel Curran, head of public policy for Meta in Canada. Curran said Facebook feeds sent Canadian publishers more than 1.9 billion clicks in the 12 months ending April 2022, worth an estimated $230 million in free marketing. The bill introduced in April 2022 by Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez is the latest legislation aiming to make digital media platforms pay for linking news content.

☆ TV and film writers are fighting to save their jobs from AI. They won’t be the last
▼ + stars: | 2023-05-04 | by ( Samantha Murphy Kelly | ) edition.cnn.com time to read: +9 min

A powerful new crop of AI tools, trained on vast troves of data online, can now generate essays, song lyrics and other written work in response to user prompts. While there are clearly limits for how well AI tools can produce compelling creative stories, these tools are only getting more advanced, putting writers like August on guard. But as part of their demands, the WGA is also fighting to protect their livelihoods from AI. Stephanie Elam/CNNWhile film and TV writers in Hollywood may currently be leading the charge, professionals in other industries will almost certainly be paying attention. “Watch this #WGA strike carefully,” Justine Bateman, a writer, director and former actress, wrote in a tweet shortly after the strike kicked off.

☆ Punjab's Arshdeep back in his element after fixing no-ball tendency
▼ + stars: | 2023-04-23 | by ( ) www.reuters.com time to read: +2 min

The problem persisted in the subsequent home series against New Zealand but Arshdeep was back in his element against Mumbai. It helped me with the no-ball problem," he said after claiming 4-29 in the high-scoring heart-stopping match. But Cameron Green (67) and Rohit Sharma (44) led a robust reply from Mumbai and then Suryakumar Yadav smashed 57 off 26 balls. Arshdeep was even more impressive, conceding just two runs and breaking the middle stumps of Tilak Varma and Nehal Wadhera in successive deliveries. "I guess Danny you should come next to me and feel the heart beat - it's not even close to 120," a beaming Arshdeep said.

☆ Analysis: No China, no deal: Bid to break sovereign debt logjams gets weary thumbs up
▼ + stars: | 2023-04-13 | by ( Libgeorge Marc Jones | Marc Jones | ) www.reuters.com time to read: +6 min

LONDON, April 13 (Reuters) - The latest bid by the world's leading institutions and creditors to speed up debt restructurings and get bankrupt countries back on their feet has been greeted by a mix of cautious optimism and weary scepticism by veteran crisis watchers. The somewhat loose framework around sovereign restructurings has seen Beijing seek to influence the traditional rules of engagement in these processes. The Common Framework platform introduced by leading G20 nations in 2020 aimed to bring all creditors, including China, together and streamline negotiations. Anna Ashton, director of China research at Eurasia Group, said this week’s developments underscored the benefits for China to give some ground on some of its concerns. "China is a difficult partner to talk to but we need China at the table for the solution of debt problems, because otherwise we won't see any progress," Lindner said.

☆ No China, no deal: Bid to break sovereign debt logjams gets weary thumbs up
▼ + stars: | 2023-04-13 | by ( Libgeorge Marc Jones | Marc Jones | ) www.reuters.com time to read: +6 min

☆ AI and the future of work: Everything is about to change
▼ + stars: | 2023-03-19 | by ( Samantha Murphy Kelly | ) edition.cnn.com time to read: +8 min

Suddenly, AI tools, which have long operated in the background of many services, are now more powerful and more visible across a wide and growing range of workplace tools. Google’s new features, for example, promise to help “brainstorm” and “proofread” written work in Docs. A long list of startups are also developing AI writing assistants and image generators. The pitch from tech companies is clear: AI can make you more productive and eliminate the grunt work. Curran said just how much these AI-powered tools will change work depends on the application.

Powering AI Dungeon's text-generation software was the GPT language technology offered by the Microsoft -backed AI research lab OpenAI. The high cost of training and "inference" — actually running — large language models is a structural cost that differs from previous computing booms. Many entrepreneurs see risks in relying on potentially subsidized AI models that they don't control and merely pay for on a per-use basis. Companies making the foundation models, semiconductor makers, and startups all see business opportunities in reducing the price of running AI software. "Latitude is going to continue to evaluate all AI models to be sure we have the best game out there."

☆ Long Island Republican warns of 'suburban uprising' over New York Gov. Kathy Hochul's plan to rezone land to allow greater density for affordable housing
▼ + stars: | 2023-02-11 | by ( John L. Dorman | ) www.businessinsider.com time to read: +5 min

A Long Island Republican warned of a "suburban uprising" over Gov. Bruce Blakeman said that Hochul's plan would trample over the autonomy of local communities. For generations, Long Island was a GOP bastion, filled with fiscally and socially conservative voters from across the political spectrum. Hochul's proposal would push for more multifamily housing developments near Long Island Rail Road stations. Still, her plan remains a tough sell for other Long Island politicians.

☆ Peloton, Allbirds and Lego: Best online sales right now
▼ + stars: | 2023-02-08 | by ( Caroline Curran | ) edition.cnn.com time to read: +4 min

Today, you’ll find a deal on a Casper weighted blanket, a discounted Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer and savings on Allbirds Trail Runners. Casper Weighted Blanket $189 From $99 at Casper Amazon Sleep soundly under a brand-new weighted blanket from the beloved DTC brand Casper. • Save on hair care from brands like Pantene, Aussie, Head & Shoulders and more right now at Amazon. • If the Casper weighted blanket is slightly out of budget, consider this alternative from Luna, now under $55 when you clip the on-page coupon. No matter which model you choose, you’ll save on a device perfect for athletes and anyone else who appreciates at-home relaxation.

☆ Sonos, Therabody and Dyson: Best online sales right now
▼ + stars: | 2023-02-07 | by ( Caroline Curran | ) edition.cnn.com time to read: +6 min

No matter which model you choose, you’ll save on a device perfect for athletes and anyone else who appreciates at-home relaxation. Right now you can save up to $170 at Therabody, including savings on the Theragun Pro and Mini. Sonos Home Theater Sale Sonos Arc Sonos In the world of premium speakers, Sonos is always a top contender — and now through Feb. 12, you can score up to $280 off select home theater speakers. Tocess Claw Clips $19 $8 at Amazon Amazon Keep your hair out of the way with a chic claw clip. • Save on our favorite affordable headphones right now — the over-ear Soundcore Anker Life are just $45 right now.

☆ Dyson, Everlane and AirPods Pro 2: Best online sales right now
▼ + stars: | 2023-02-06 | by ( Caroline Curran | ) edition.cnn.com time to read: +5 min

Lowest Price AirPods Pro 2 $249 $199 at Amazon Apple Three years after debuting — and landing in the ears of seemingly everyone you know — Apple’s mega-popular AirPods Pro have finally gotten a refresh. Available now, the AirPods Pro 2 offer major upgrades like improved active noise cancellation (ANC), a wider range of fit options, more expansive touch controls and longer battery life. Right now, the second-gen AirPods Pro are at their lowest price yet of $199, so order now at Amazon to save on these pricey earbuds. Lowest Price Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer $460 $400 at Amazon Dyson In addition to making your floors spotless, Dyson is a pro at styling your strands with its range of hair tools. And right now, you can snap up a brand-new Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer for under $400, the lowest price we’ve seen at Amazon.

☆ Nike, Rumpl and Instant Pot: Best online sales right now
▼ + stars: | 2023-02-03 | by ( Caroline Curran | ) edition.cnn.com time to read: +6 min

This weekend, you’ll find a deal on the Philips SmartSleep sunrise lamp, a discounted Instant Pot and savings on Crap Eyewear sunglasses. Instant Pot Duo Plus $150 $110 at Amazon Instant Pot Score a variant of our favorite pressure cooker, the Instant Pot Duo Plus, up to 27% off, alongside a range of other models from the brand. Rumpl 30% off Original Puffy Football Blankets Rumpl Versatile and machine-washable, Rumpl blankets are durable enough for the outdoors yet cozy enough for the couch. Deals you may have missedKindle Paperwhite $150 $110 at Amazon Amazon Our pick for the best budget e-reader, the Kindle Paperwhite boasts a lightweight design and a glare-free screen with adjustable warmth to reduce strain on your eyes. Right now you can score our pick for the best full-size low-profile keyboard at an all-time low price on Amazon.

☆ ChatGPT introduced AI to the masses and it's already affecting us
▼ + stars: | 2023-02-02 | by ( Magdalena Petrova | ) www.cnbc.com time to read: +2 min

ChatGPT is part of a growing field of AI known as generative AI. Funding for generative AI companies reached $1.37 billion in 2022 alone, according to Pitchbook. "Generative AI is very different. But generative AI still faces a number of challenges, including developing content that is inaccurate, biased or inappropriate. Watch the video to learn more about how generative AI like ChatGPT works and what the technology may mean for businesses and society as a whole.

☆ How a D1 football player built an audience of nearly 2 million TikTok followers, and how much he's earned from endorsements
▼ + stars: | 2022-11-26 | by ( Colin Salao | ) www.businessinsider.com time to read: +4 min

Jon Seaton is a junior defensive lineman for Elon University in the Division I Football Championship Subdivision. Since NIL rules were implemented, he's earned over $250,000 through deals with Meta and Dr. Pepper. "I actually had no clue at that point where I was going to feed myself from," Seaton said. Tim Curran told Insider he has avoided small deals for Seaton worth $25 to $50, which has pushed up the value of each sponsored post the athlete makes. Seaton believes that NIL could help student-athletes like him, who aren't pursuing careers as professional athletes, become business leaders.

☆ T20 World Cup: England secure a dramatic victory in the final against Pakistan
▼ + stars: | 2022-11-13 | by ( Issy Ronald | ) edition.cnn.com time to read: +2 min

CNN —England won the T20 World Cup Final in sensational style, defeating Pakistan by five wickets in front of more than 80,000 fans at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday. As he did three years ago when England won the one-day World Cup, Stokes hit the winning runs and, with those runs, England became the first ever men’s side to hold the one day and T20 World Cup at the same time. I think the way we bowled, Adil Rashid, Sam Curran, that’s what won us the game,” Stokes said afterwards, according to the BBC. William West/AFP/Getty ImagesPakistan batted first, after England won the toss and elected to bowl, but struggled to set a high total under a barrage of precise bowling. But England attacked off the final four overs and wrapped up the victory with six balls to spare.

☆ England beat Pakistan to win T20 World Cup at MCG as Ben Stokes stars yet again in a final
▼ + stars: | 2022-11-13 | by ( David Ruse | ) www.cnbc.com time to read: +5 min

Ben Stokes of England celebrates victory following during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Final match between Pakistan and England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on November 13, 2022 in Melbourne, Australia. Ben Stokes starred in a final once again as England became dual white-ball world champions after overcoming Pakistan by five wickets to win the T20 World Cup at the MCG. England rallied to overpower New Zealand, edge past Sri Lanka and decimate India before seeing off Pakistan to end their opponents' hopes of winning the T20 World Cup for a second time and of repeating their victory over England at the MCG in the 1992 50-over final. Babar's exit came at the start of the 12th over with Pakistan 84-2 and they went on lose six wickets for 47 runs. England will remain in Australia to play a three-match one-day international series against Australia, beginning on Thursday at Adelaide before fixtures at the SCG on Saturday and MCG on November 22.

☆ Waivr's founders had failed at their first idea. Here's how they ended up landing $1.4 million for their company.
▼ + stars: | 2022-11-11 | by ( Emilia David | ) www.businessinsider.com time to read: +4 min

It raised a $1.4 million pre-seed round from Costanoa Ventures, NextView Ventures, CRV, and others. Their first idea was a lot like their payments startup Waivr, but without the focus on subscriptions. That beta test on the market had 300 people, whose transaction data they gathered. The founders noticed that people were overdrafting mainly on subscription payments, so they moved to focus on that. That's how Waivr, a startup seeking to facilitate real-time subscription payments with safeguards to prevent accidental overdrafts, came to be.

☆ Turkey central bank firms grip on lira as election approaches
▼ + stars: | 2022-11-11 | by ( Nevzat Devranoglu | ) www.reuters.com time to read: +5 min

[1/2] A logo of Turkey's Central Bank is pictured at the entrance of its headquarters in Ankara, Turkey October 15, 2021. Unlike past schemes to support the lira, the central bank no longer needs to constantly tap its own reserves, according to 10 bankers and economists and one Turkish official. The central bank declined to comment for this article, but senior officials and President Tayyip Erdogan have regularly praised the new regulations. Bankers' calculations show the central bank has obtained about $100 billion this year under the new policy. Yet the central bank told bank executives this week it will continue with its regulations and policies, despite their criticism, according to sources at the meetings.

☆ T20 World Cup: England thrash India by 10 wickets to book place in final against Pakistan
▼ + stars: | 2022-11-10 | by ( Ali Stafford | ) www.cnbc.com time to read: +4 min

Jos Buttler and Alex Hales of England share a laugh as they celebrate victory during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Semi Final match between India and England at Adelaide Oval on November 10, 2022 in Adelaide, Australia. An incredible unbroken opening stand between Jos Buttler and Alex Hales saw England book their place in the T20 World Cup final with a stunning 10-wicket victory over India in Adelaide. Knockout stages are about keeping calm and handling pressure and the way we started with the ball was not ideal. It shows we were a little nervy but you have to give credit to England." Watch the T20 World Cup final between England and Pakistan, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, live on Sky Sports Cricket and Main Event on Sunday.

☆ Egypt's pound sinks further against dollar after flexibility pledge
▼ + stars: | 2022-10-30 | by ( ) www.reuters.com time to read: +2 min

CAIRO, Oct 30 (Reuters) - Egypt's pound fell about 4% to 24 against the dollar as trading resumed on Sunday, Refinitiv data showed, after authorities committed to a flexible exchange rate under an International Monetary Fund support deal. The pound slid about 14.5% to 23 against the dollar on Thursday after they pledged a "durably flexible" exchange rate in conjunction with a staff-level agreement for a $3 billion IMF extended fund facility. Egypt's currency has been held steady or allowed to depreciate only gradually following previous sharp devaluations in 2016 and this March. It has weakened about 34.5% against the dollar so far this year. It introduced a mandatory requirement for importers to use letters of credit, leading to a sharp slowdown in imports and bottlenecks at ports.

☆ Generative AI Startups Attract Business Customers, Investor Funding
▼ + stars: | 2022-10-25 | by ( Angus Loten | ) www.wsj.com time to read: +5 min

Based on keyword prompts, generative AI platforms can then mimic these sources to produce fanciful stories and pictures of their own. Other generative AI startups offering enterprise applications include Replikr, a New Zealand startup that uses generative AI to create customer-service avatars, and Dutch startup Musico Ltd., which can be used to create original copyright-free advertising jingles. GoCharlie.AI, an early-stage startup based in San Francisco, in May launched a generative AI marketing assistant designed to create promotional social-media posts. By promising to save workers hours of productive time creating promotional materials, the commercial value proposition around generative AI has always been clear, he said. Rowan Curran, an AI and data science analyst at IT research firm Forrester Research Inc., said he expects generative AI to impact enterprises from top to bottom.

☆ Her ‘Moulin Rouge’ Muscle Car Helped Give Her the Nickname ‘Cuda Girl’
▼ + stars: | 2022-10-15 | by ( A.J. Baime | Photographs Ramie Faris For The Wall Street Journal | ) www.wsj.com time to read: 1 min

Joy Curran , an executive assistant at Johnson & Johnson living in North Brunswick, N.J., on her 1970 Plymouth AAR ‘Cuda, as told to A.J. Growing up in New Jersey, my father and my mother’s brother had quite a few muscle cars, and by age 6, I was hooked. In particular, I gravitated to Chrysler muscle cars like the Dodge Challenger and the Plymouth Barracuda. I was able to save some money, and the first car I bought, when I was 16, was a 1970 Challenger. But unfortunately because I had a part-time job and school, I was not able to pay for the upkeep.

☆ Analysis: IMF plugs financing gaps as riskier emerging markets face squeeze
▼ + stars: | 2022-10-14 | by ( Jorgelina Do Rosario | ) www.reuters.com time to read: +6 min

Ghana, Egypt, Tunisia and Malawi are all in talks on some type of IMF financing. Countries' debt burdens have risen. Turning to the IMF for financing has been the traditional playbook for smaller, strained countries in times of crisis. A set of new IMF tools should also help funnel more funds to such countries in the short-term. "But IMF does act as an anchor and allows access to a broader set of funding, even if not from the market," said Alexandru-Chidesciuc.

☆ Anti-woke ETF adopts progressive cause
▼ + stars: | 2022-10-11 | by ( ) www.reuters.com time to read: +2 min

Keeping tabs on such corporate actions is a tall order, especially when the ETF plans to mimic the make-up of the S&P 500 Index and avoid skewing investment toward anti-woke darlings such as the oil sector. Subjects like job creation and fair pay are topics that advocates such as the Congressional Progressive Caucus are advancing. So too is BlackRock (BLK.N) boss Larry Fink, who noted how companies manage their employees is material to investors’ interests. Typically those issues fall under the "S" in the environmental, social, and governance mandates that YALL is fighting against. They do not reflect the views of Reuters News, which, under the Trust Principles, is committed to integrity, independence, and freedom from bias.

☆ For Some Figma Fans, Adobe Deal Triggers Fears Over Innovation, Pricing
▼ + stars: | 2022-09-22 | by ( Isabelle Bousquette | ) www.wsj.com time to read: +5 min

In many instances, users switched over to it from Adobe products for those reasons. The fear is “not necessarily that it’s going to get worse, it’s that it’s just not going to get better anymore,” Mr. McCarthy said. Since last week, the social media site has become a popular forum for Figma users to voice their worries. If Figma price points approached some of the existing price points for Adobe products, “our costs would go through the roof,” said Mr. McCarthy. Both Adobe and Figma said that the strong community element is part of what made Figma so valuable and attractive to Adobe and they hope it can remain.

Search resuls for: "Curran"

25 mentions found