Weekly Bytes about AI, Data Science & Web3 - CW 1

Welcome to our first 2024 edition, spotlighting transformative advancements in AI, Web3, and Data Science

This week's edition is abuzz with significant developments, particularly around the potential approval of Spot Bitcoin ETFs, creating ripples throughout the crypto market. The anticipation of this key decision is shaping discussions and expectations in the Web3 space. In parallel, OpenAI's upcoming GPT Store and Microsoft's launch of the Copilot Key showcase notable advances in AI, improving user interactions and accessibility. In Data Science, collaborations such as Metaflow and NVIDIA Triton exemplify the synergy between powerful platforms for efficient deployment of AI models, while Intel's Articul8 AI ventures into new areas of business AI applications.

?? Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI Set to Launch Custom ChatGPT Store

OpenAI is gearing up to launch its GPT Store, a platform for users to sell and share AI agents based on OpenAI's large language models. The launch, set for next week, follows a series of delays. The store is an extension of OpenAI's initiative, first announced in November, allowing ChatGPT Plus and enterprise subscribers to create custom AI agents using the GPT-4 model. These custom agents, ranging from those explaining Gen Z memes to guiding negotiations, could previously be accessed via the explore tab of ChatGPT Plus. However, the upcoming store will enable creators to monetize their creations, with OpenAI planning to compensate creators based on the usage of their AI agents in the store. The store's launch was postponed due to a busy period for OpenAI, including the temporary departure and return of CEO Sam Altman. More on this.

Microsoft Introduces Copilot Key for AI-Powered Windows PCs

微软 is elevating the PC experience with the introduction of a new Copilot key in Windows 11 PCs, marking 2024 as the year of AI-powered computing. This innovation is part of Microsoft's commitment to integrating AI seamlessly into Windows, encompassing the system, silicon, and hardware. The Copilot key, the first major addition to the PC keyboard in almost three decades, aims to simplify and amplify computing experiences by making AI interactions more accessible. This key, joining the iconic Windows key, will trigger the Copilot experience in Windows, facilitating effortless engagement with AI for everyday tasks. Microsoft's collaboration with silicon partners AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm further strengthens this initiative, with new system architectures designed to enhance Windows AI experiences. The Copilot key will be featured on new Windows 11 PCs from various ecosystem partners starting this month and will be included in upcoming Surface devices. More on this.

The Influence of Adversarially Altered Images on Human Perception

New research reveals that digital images, subtly modified to deceive AI vision systems, can also impact human perception. These alterations, known as adversarial images, are designed to mislead AI models into misclassifying images, often with minimal pixel adjustments. The study, published in Nature Communications, shows that even though these changes are indiscernible to the human eye, they can subtly bias human judgment under controlled conditions. This discovery points to a surprising similarity between human and machine vision, emphasizing the need for further exploration into the effects of such images on both AI systems and human observers. The research underscores the importance of AI safety and security, suggesting that insights into human susceptibility to these perturbations could help align AI visual systems more closely with human perception. More on this.

?? Web3

Momentum Builds for Spot Bitcoin ETF Approval

The race for the approval of spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) is heating up as stock exchanges filed updated 19b-4 forms for potential ETFs from major asset managers including BlackRock , 富达 , and Grayscale Investments . These filings are a significant step forward, indicating that SEC approval could be imminent. Notably, Grayscale Investments, aiming to convert its existing GBTC fund into an ETF, affirmed its readiness to operate GBTC as an ETF upon regulatory approval. This move by Grayscale, alongside other asset managers like Valkyrie , ARK 21Shares, and Invesco Ltd. , marks a crucial phase in the long-awaited approval process. The crypto industry eagerly anticipates the SEC's decision, with analysts suggesting that the final approval could be just around the corner. More on this.

Bitcoin ETFs: A Threat to Bitcoin's Future?

Arthur Hayes , co-founder of BitMEX , warns of the potential risks associated with the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs by the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Hayes argues that if these ETFs, anticipated to bring a new wave of investments, become overly successful, they could "completely destroy Bitcoin." He explains that financial giants like BlackRock , focusing on accumulating assets without actual usage, could inadvertently harm Bitcoin. Post-2140, Bitcoin miners will rely solely on transaction fees for rewards, and a shift towards ETF shares or derivative products over actual Bitcoins could decrease network activity. This reduction in fees could lead to miners shutting down operations, increasing Bitcoin's vulnerability to network attacks and potentially compromising its existence. More on this. / German Version

More to Bitcoin / Bitcoin ETF:

• State of Bitcoin 2023
• BlackRock Anticipates Spot Bitcoin ETF Approval next Wednesday
• Matrixport Expect ETF Rejection in January
• Spot Bitcoin ETF Approval will Promote Derivatives Growth
• Mysterious $1.2 Million Bitcoin Transaction to Satoshi's Genesis Wallet
• Marathon Digital Sets New Record in BTC Production

Potential Crypto Market Correction in March

Arthur Hayes ' Forecast also predicts a significant crypto market correction in March 2024 due to macroeconomic factors. Key triggers include changes to the Federal Reserve's reverse repo program and the expiration of the Bank Term Funding Program, which could impact liquidity. Hayes predicts a 20-40% drop in the value of bitcoin, with a rebound expected after the Federal Reserve's interest rate decision. His analysis suggests that the crypto market could face short-term challenges, but could rebound with anticipated fiscal changes. More on this.

Coinbase's Expansion into EU Derivatives Market with MiFID License Acquisition

Coinbase is seeking to acquire a MiFID-licensed entity in Cyprus, aiming to extend its derivatives offerings across the European Union. This strategic move, subject to regulatory approval, is expected to finalize in 2024, offering derivatives products to eligible customers in select EU countries. As a leader in regulatory compliance, Coinbase will apply its Five-point Global Compliance Standard, ensuring high standards in AML, KYC, and sanctions adherence. This initiative marks a significant step in Coinbase's global expansion, aligning with its mission to increase economic freedom worldwide. More on this.

DCG Settles Over $1 Billion in Debt for Genesis

DCG (DCG) has successfully cleared its short-term loans for its subsidiary, Genesis, contributing to over $1 billion in total debt repayment to creditors. DCG's substantial debt clearance includes nearly $700 million paid specifically to Genesis. This follows a lawsuit in September where Genesis sought over $610 million from DCG, linked to a loan matured in May 2023. Additionally, Genesis aimed to recover 4,550 BTC, valued at around $199 million. An agreement in November mandated DCG to pay $200 million within a few weeks, with the balance due by April 1, according to the bankruptcy court-approved plan. The resolution of this financial obligation is a significant step for DCG, as it navigates through Genesis' bankruptcy proceedings and focuses on future growth and industry commitments. More on this.

?? Data Science

Metaflow and NVIDIA Triton Transform ML and AI Deployment

Metaflow , a Python library developed by Netflix , is revolutionizing the deployment of Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) models in conjunction with 英伟达 's Triton Inference Server. Addressing the full lifecycle of ML systems, from development to deployment, Metaflow offers a unified API for a seamless developer experience and swift deployment. It simplifies the process of developing reactive ML workflows, scaling data access and training models, while maintaining comprehensive tracking of all stages. The integration with NVIDIA Triton Inference Server, renowned for its performance and versatility in handling various model types, facilitates efficient and high-performance real-time inference. This combination is particularly advantageous for deploying Large Language Models (LLMs), ensuring low-latency inferences and scalable server infrastructure. Together, Metaflow and NVIDIA Triton provide a robust framework for enterprises to develop and deploy AI-powered models and systems with ease and efficiency. More on this.

Evidently AI's Comprehensive ML System Design Blog

Evidently AI has curated an extensive blog on machine learning system design, featuring over 300 case studies from industry leaders. This valuable resource, updated as recently as December 2023, serves as a treasure trove for anyone interested in learning from real-world applications. The blog includes insightful papers and blogs from tech giants such as Netflix , Spotify , Meta , Uber , and more. Featured use cases include innovative call routing from Nubank , fraud prevention strategies from Stripe , and advanced demand forecasting in the fashion industry from Zalando . These case studies offer practical insights and are an invaluable resource for ML and MLOps professionals and enthusiasts.

Intel Launches Articul8 AI for Enhanced Business AI Integration

英特尔 , in collaboration with DigitalBridge Group, Inc. , has announced the spin-out of a new AI-based software company named Articul8 AI , Inc. This venture, emerging from Intel's work with 波士顿谘询公司 , focuses on harnessing AI for practical business applications. Articul8 AI, backed by DigitalBridge Ventures and other investors, offers a full-stack, vertically-optimized GenAI software platform. This platform is designed to process various inputs like text, images, and audio, to generate new content, leveraging patterns from training data for unique outputs. Intel aims to create a scalable GenAI platform that prioritizes speed, security, and cost-efficiency, keeping data within the enterprise security perimeter. The platform, while centered on Intel hardware architectures, will support various hybrid infrastructure options. Articul8's introduction into the market aligns with the growing business need for GenAI integration, potentially boosting Intel’s standing in the AI sector. More on this.

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