Record Venture Capital Funding Fuels AI Investment Surge
Investors are increasingly directing funds towards artificial intelligence (AI), with venture capital funding reaching a record $267 billion in the first quarter of 2026, nearly all of which is allocated to AI initiatives. In response to the growing demand for critical materials driven by the AI boom, Sprott has launched a new ETF focused on rare earth elements sourced outside of China, aiming to diversify supply chains. Meanwhile, Arthur Hayes, co-founder of BitMEX, described the current market as a 'no-trade zone' due to AI-driven deflation and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which are exerting pressure on risk assets.
Texas Man Charged with Attempted Murder of OpenAI CEO
Daniel Moreno-Gama, a 20-year-old from Texas, has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly throwing a Molotov cocktail at OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's home in San Francisco. Court documents indicate that Moreno-Gama had previously discussed violent actions against tech executives in an anti-AI Discord group, referencing the assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in December 2024. He was reportedly carrying anti-AI writings and kerosene at the time of the incident.
EU Proposes Data Sharing Measures for Google
The European Union has proposed new data sharing measures for Google under its Digital Markets Act, aiming to enhance competition by ensuring smaller companies can access essential data. This initiative is part of the EU's broader strategy to regulate large tech firms and promote a fairer digital market.
