
What’s New Today: Nvidia Faces China Probe Over AI Chip Deal Amid Tensions
Fast-Track Insights: Top Tech Startup Funding Rounds of 2024
Here’s a quick rundown of the biggest tech headlines making waves today. From the Nvidia Faces China Probe to Graduate Opportunity at Cognizant, let’s dive into the top tech stories of the day.
China has launched an antitrust investigation into Nvidia, focusing on its 2020 acquisition of Mellanox Technologies and allegations of anti-competitive practices. The probe follows Beijing’s recent tech sanctions amid escalating US-China tech tensions. Approved under conditions, the Mellanox deal required Nvidia to ensure fair access to new products for Chinese firms. Nvidia, a leader in AI chips, faces global scrutiny, with investigations in the US, France, and the EU over alleged monopolistic practices. The company’s shares fell 2% amid these challenges, while US export restrictions further strain its operations. Nvidia’s AI chip dominance remains critical but increasingly contentious worldwide.
In 2024, the tech startup ecosystem flourished despite economic challenges, with record-breaking funding rounds showcasing investor confidence in innovation. Key highlights include Safe Superintelligence’s $1 billion Series A for AI research, Twelve’s $400 million venture round for carbon transformation, and Glean’s $260 million Series E for enterprise AI-powered search tools. Other notable rounds were World Labs’ $230 million for spatial AI, AtoB’s $130 million for transportation payments, and Whatfix’s $125 million for GenAI-powered app guidance. These funding rounds underscore the rise of transformative industries like AI, fintech, and green tech, signaling a new wave of technological progress reshaping global markets.
Cognizant is hiring a Senior Consultant with expertise in Signavio and Supply Chain Management (SCM) for their Chennai, India location. The role involves leading Signavio Process Manager implementations, analyzing and optimizing supply chain processes, and collaborating with clients on business transformation projects. Applicants must have at least 8 years of relevant experience, proficiency in Signavio, and basic SCM knowledge, including demand planning and logistics. Familiarity with ERP systems, client-facing skills, and fluency in English are essential. Preferred qualifications include advanced Signavio expertise, industry-specific SCM knowledge, and prior experience in Tier-1 consulting or leading supply chain solutions. Strong leadership and teamwork skills are vital.
The intersection of artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency is one of the most transformative sectors in the global economy. Advances in blockchain technology, machine learning, and data analytics are revolutionizing how business, finance, and technology evolve. If Donald Trump returns to leadership in the United States, his policies and economic vision may determine the growth trajectory of these two revolutionary fields.
The crypto market faced a sharp sell-off as optimism from President-elect Donald Trump’s pro-crypto stance cooled. Bitcoin dropped below $95,000 on Tuesday, while smaller digital assets plunged up to 15%. After hitting a record $103,800 on Dec. 5, Bitcoin struggled to sustain its six-figure mark, with the market losing $150 billion in 24 hours. Analysts link the downturn to caution over upcoming US inflation data and potential Federal Reserve rate cuts. Trump’s crypto-friendly agenda, including appointing a pro-digital asset SEC head and creating a crypto czar role, has spurred both hopes for a boom and concerns over mainstream adoption risks.