Power Moves & Plot Twists: This Week’s Top 10 Business & Tech Headlines!

1. Physics Wallah raises $26M at a $3.7B valuation

India's favorite edtech unicorn, Physics Wallah, has just received a massive $26 million boost of new capital, valuing the company at a massive $3.7 billion. That is some high-octane rocket fuel for this homegrown edtech giant! Investors are betting big on the platform's dream to upend learning.

So, what's in store for PW next? Growth, innovation, and more magic in the classrooms! The capital infusion will drive their offline centers, bring in cutting-edge technology, and give the students more experiences. Imagine smart learning with a desi twist—bigger, better, and brasher.

This milestone is not numbers—it's energizing next-generation dreamers. From boardroom wins to YouTube video tutorials, PW's story is one of hustle and heart. To every student who wants to be great, this message sends: "If they can, so can you!"

2. India is next on Trump’s tariff list

Appears that India is the latest to land on Trump's radar—this time tariffs! The erstwhile US President threatened to impose fresh tariffs on Indian imports if he gets reelected. His "America First" agenda has made a return, and India may suffer.

So what's the big deal? Trump thinks Indian imports are harming US makers. He's looking at slapping tariffs on everything from clothing to computer gear—essentially, stuff we all use on a daily basis. The trade tensions have the potential to rock markets and prices around the world.

For India, it could be a rollercoaster ride from now on, particularly for exporters. But, India's good at turning negatives into positives. Will it lead to an era of fresh innovation and improved global trade relations? Only time will tell!

3. Rapido to raise 250 crore in Series E funding from Prosus.

Rapido, the mass bike-taxi platform, is ready to raise ?250 crore in new Series E funding from international investor Prosus. This infusion of funds is likely to supercharge the company's growth and power its expansion to more Indian cities.

What's the plan with all the money? Rapido plans to enhance its fleet, enhance technology infrastructure, and enhance customer experience. Quicker rides, better bookings, and even more drivers on the road—Rapido is accelerating!

This fund-raising round is a clear sign of enormous confidence in the ride-hailing future of India. As congestion woes increase, fast and inexpensive two-wheeler rides are the way forward. It appears that Rapido is all set to ride the wave of growth!

4. Baidu is all set to release its new AI Model

Chinese tech behemoth Baidu is ready to shake up the realm of AI with its recently introduced model. Coming out in the near future, this launch marks a break from conventions in natural language processing, search, and more—picture wiser, quicker, and more human-like AI.

So why the hype? Baidu will be updating its Ernie chatbot and putting it in competition with others, such as ChatGPT. From driving companies to transforming mundane online conversations, this AI update could reshape our relationship with tech.

Because AI is on the upswing everywhere in the world, Baidu's action is China's action towards leadership. Will the model become the new norm or lead to new competition? Tech enthusiasts, buckle up—it's about to get interesting!

5. How “China Toys” are changing the rules of AI Game

Forget teddy bears—China's new playthings are AI, and they're in charge. From chatbots to smart learning toys, the toys are fusing play and cutting-edge tech, teaching the children of the future while creating global AI trends.

So what's all the fuss about? Not only are these toys adorable—learn, grow, and teach! China is employing them to test out next-generation AI models, providing their tech giants with a head start in the global race. Playtime is taking on a serious tone.

The globe is turning to China for bringing innovation and fun together. These AI toys—are they the future of teaching technology or the beginning of a digital dominance? Either way, the game has changed—and that's just the start!

6. Adani Bets on Ammo, Locks 5-years large-caliber export orders

Adani is getting serious in the defense sector with a huge 5-year order for high-calibre ammunition on export. It will further set India up as an international defence supplier—firepower with business flair!

Why is it making this bold bet? Adani wishes to grow its defence manufacturing operation, surfing the wave of rising global demand for weapons. This deal could open doors for more military partnerships and solidify India’s role in the global weapons market.

For India’s defence industry, it’s a win loaded with potential. From “Make in India” to “Export from India,” Adani’s playbook is clear—big guns, big deals, and even bigger ambitions!

7. OLA Consumer’s FY24 Revenue Down 21%

Ola's consumer business is having a tough time, with revenue dropping 21% in FY24. The formerly high-flying ride-hailing giant is caught between the hammer and the anvil as competition squeezes tighter and demand fizzles out—hard times for the native brand.

Why the slowdown? Industry players blame increasing costs, driver discontent, and changing customer tastes. With competitors like Uber and new entrants accelerating, Ola's hold on the market is being severely tested.

But it's not all doom and gloom—Ola is looking at a comeback with electric vehicles and tech facelifts. Can this speed bump turn into a comeback tale, or will the road remain bumpy? Let's watch this ride develop!

8. Adani withdraws $1B wind power project in Sri Lanka

In a shocking move, Adani Group has withdrawn from its ambitious $1 billion wind farm venture in Sri Lanka. The move is shocking, particularly because the project would have provided a fillip to Sri Lanka's renewable energy scheme—so what happened?

The insiders attribute regulatory issues, geopolitical tensions, and financial difficulties spoiling the party. Adani, having gone aggressively to the global energy bet, seems to be back to the drawing board in the region, being cautious rather than rolling the dice this time.

Though the abandonment is a blot on Sri Lanka's greening vision, it is also a reminder—big risks face rough winds. The big question now—is where will Adani place his next billion dollars?

9. Meta’s new AI now can ‘read your mind’

Meta is making sci-fi a reality with its new AI model that, literally, reads your mind—or at least is getting close to it. Advanced technology has the ability to decipher brain waves and forecast ideas, revolutionizing the way human beings interact with machines.

How does it work? Using brainwave data and advanced neural networks, the AI interprets what you’re thinking—like imagining a picture or phrase—and turns it into digital output. No typing, no talking—just thoughts powering tech.

Thrilling? Yes. Creepy? Possibly. Although it opens up infinite possibilities for medicine and connectivity, privacy issues are humming along. Is this the future of man-machine integration, or are we walking into a Black Mirror episode?

10. Donald Trump talks with Putin to end Ukraine war

Rumours are circulating—Donald Trump has allegedly discussed bringing an end to the Ukraine war with Vladimir Putin. If it is true, it could upset the world order, with Trump looking to play the role of peace broker before the US elections.

What's cooking? Trump asserts that he can bring an end to the war "in 24 hours" if he's re-elected, and this conversation with Putin may be his first major step. But detractors caution—would this put the balance in Russia's favor or ignite a new game of power?

For the world and Ukraine, it's a wait-and-watch situation with a lot of tension. Is Trump the dealmaker who will finally end the bombs, or is this merely another political game? Buckle up—international politics is getting hot!

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