Robotaxis: VW + Uber Rollout in U.S.

Volkswagen is teaming up with Uber to launch a robotaxi service in the U.S., bringing Europe's successful autonomous vehicle program to American roads by 2026. Tesla is also making headlines by kicking off robotaxi trials in Austin, Texas, using modified Model Y vehicles equipped with safety monitors—taking self-driving from futuristic concept to everyday reality.

Major Tech Layoffs Amid AI Push

Recruit Holdings, the parent company behind job portals Indeed and Glassdoor, announced it would cut about 1,300 positions amid increased AI integration. Similarly, giants like Meta and Microsoft are reducing their workforce to balance investments in AI infrastructure. Microsoft alone earmarked $80 billion for AI development, involving around 9,100 job cuts.

Stock & Market Moves

The Nasdaq reached new record highs, and Nvidia hit a massive $4 trillion market cap, signaling strong investor confidence in AI-driven innovation. Analysts remain bullish, predicting an additional 15–20% market upside through October. Seagate’s stock also saw a positive turn, rising 1.75% and ending its losing streak.

UK Digital Public Sector Revamp with Google Cloud

The UK government announced a partnership with Google Cloud to eliminate outdated tech systems, introduce a National Digital Exchange, and train 100,000 civil servants by 2030. The move aims to modernize public services, potentially saving billions in public expenditure.

AI Regulations & Antitrust Sparks

In regulatory news, the U.S. Senate dropped a proposal for a decade-long freeze on state-level AI rules, boosting momentum for nationwide AI governance. Across the Atlantic, independent publishers in the EU have lodged antitrust complaints against Google's "AI Overviews," alleging unfair traffic distribution and market manipulation.