Tech
Microsoft shareholders get their money’s worth after $60 billion buyback
The big tech firm announces new repurchase program, following the promotion of president Brad Smith to vice chair.
Microsoft is set to buy back $60 billion worth of shares under a new share repurchase program.
Each dividend will cost just over 60 cents per share, which is six cents more than the previous quarter.
The purpose of a buyback is to lower the number of outstanding shares on the market.
As a result, stakeholder ownership is increased and companies are able to reinvest in themselves.
There are a number of reasons behind why a company may buyback shares with Microsoft planning to raise their quarterly dividend by 11 percent.
Taking the top spot
The program comes after the tech giant appointed president Brad Smith as vice chair.
The company president who joined the tech firm in 1993, currently leads a team of over 1,500 staff across 54 countries.
According to his biography, Smith became general counsel for the company in 2002 and, over the next decade, handled the resolution of antitrust cases.
It’s unclear how long the buyback will last, with Microsoft saying they can choose to terminate the program at any time.
Shares went up by 0.5 percent following the announcement.
Written by Rebecca Borg
Tech
Anthropic CEO holds key Pentagon talks on AI ethics and military use
Anthropic CEO to meet Defense Secretary Hegseth on ethical AI deployment and DOD contract discussions.
Anthropic CEO to meet Defense Secretary Hegseth on ethical AI deployment and DOD contract discussions.
Anthropic’s CEO is scheduled to meet Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon to discuss the use of the startup’s artificial intelligence models in military applications. The meeting comes as the Department of Defense seeks clarity on how Anthropic’s AI can be integrated into its operations.
Negotiations between Anthropic and the DOD have recently faced challenges over terms of use. Anthropic is pushing for safeguards to ensure its models are not used for autonomous weapons or domestic surveillance, while the DOD wants full flexibility to deploy the technology for all lawful purposes.
Currently, Anthropic is the only AI company deployed on the DOD’s classified networks, holding a $200 million contract. This meeting could be pivotal in resolving tensions and strengthening collaboration between the AI startup and the U.S. government.
Subscribe to never miss an episode of Ticker – https://www.youtube.com/@weareticker
Tech
Apple’s next AI wearables could change how we use tech
Apple is launching smart glasses, an AI pendant, and camera-equipped AirPods with upgraded Siri by 2027.
Apple is launching smart glasses, an AI pendant, and camera-equipped AirPods with upgraded Siri by 2027.
Apple is accelerating its wearable tech game, developing three cutting-edge devices featuring an upgraded Siri powered by Google’s Gemini AI models. The tech giant is betting big on AI to enhance user interaction across smart glasses, AirPods, and a unique AI pendant.
The N50 smart glasses will come equipped with dual cameras and are slated for a 2027 release, with prototypes already in the hands of Apple’s hardware engineers. Production is expected to ramp up by December 2026, signaling Apple’s commitment to merging AI with everyday accessories.
Meanwhile, Apple is also working on a camera-equipped AirPods model and an AI pendant that can be worn as a necklace or clipped to clothing, featuring cameras, microphones, and a speaker. These innovations highlight a new era of wearable technology powered by advanced AI.
Subscribe to never miss an episode of Ticker – https://www.youtube.com/@weareticker
Tech
Sam Altman predicts superintelligence could appear by 2028
Sam Altman warns superintelligence may arise by 2028, advocating for global cooperation and a new governing body for AI.
Sam Altman warns superintelligence may arise by 2028, advocating for global cooperation and a new governing body for AI.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has issued a bold prediction, suggesting that early forms of superintelligence could emerge as soon as 2028. Speaking at the India AI Impact Summit, Altman emphasised the urgent need for global cooperation to manage AI development responsibly.
He proposed the creation of an international oversight body for AI, similar to the International Atomic Energy Agency, to prevent misuse and ensure ethical advancements. Altman also raised concerns about authoritarian control in exchange for technological gains, highlighting the geopolitical stakes of AI.
With over 100 million users in India alone, ChatGPT has become a key part of the AI landscape. Altman acknowledged potential job disruptions but expressed optimism about society’s ability to adapt to rapid AI changes.
Subscribe to never miss an episode of Ticker – https://www.youtube.com/@weareticker
-
Tech5 days agoSam Altman predicts superintelligence could appear by 2028
-
News5 days ago
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor released after 12-hour questioning
-
Money5 days ago
Oil hits seven-month high, and gold surpasses $5,000 amid US-Iran tensions
-
Ticker Views5 days ago
Prince Andrew arrested: What it means for the Royal Family
-
News5 days ago
Bill Gates withdraws from India AI Impact Summit before keynote
-
Leaders4 days ago
Young author Maya Ahmed publishes debut novel at 13
-
News2 days ago
Iran signals nuclear concessions as U.S. talks intensify
-
Money5 days ago
US dollar strength hits NZ dollar amid FX market shifts
