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Inflection AI CEO Takes His Talents To South Beach (Microsoft)

Meanwhile, Intel got a big US government contract and the Saudis might have a new favorite VC (it’s not Masa)

Author

Adam Hardej
March 20, 2024

Satya and Microsoft continue to collect big brain AI leaders in their sprint towards AGI. Tim and Sundar might need to have another dinner to discuss how to not be left in the dust. Meanwhile, Intel got a big US government contract and the Saudis might have a new favorite VC (it’s not Masa).

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Microsoft bets on start-ups to extend AI lead with hiring of Inflection chief

“Tuesday, Nadella announced the surprise hiring of Mustafa Suleyman, chief executive of AI start-up Inflection and co-founder of DeepMind, to lead a new Microsoft division focused on pushing further into the market for consumer-facing AI applications.”

Intel to receive $8.5bn in US funding for high-end chip manufacturing

“Intel will receive $8.5bn in direct funding and $11bn in loans from the US government to expand its capacity to make high-end chips, as it seeks to reinvent itself as a national champion in the sector and compete with the likes of Taiwan’s TSMC and South Korea’s Samsung.”  

Saudi Arabia Plans $40 Billion Push Into Artificial Intelligence

“Representatives of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund have discussed possible arrangements with venture firm Andreessen Horowitz and others, according to the people.”

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Jensen x Zoolander actually fits well.

Letters From The Editor

Misc. (short for miscellaneous)

Microsoft Avoids Regulation

Basic strategy that seems to playing out is that Microsoft (and other big tech players) will look to hire rather than buy. Nothing the EU can do about that right? Monopolies be monopolying.

Actually a great move in a talent driven industry like AI. Leaves a lot to be desired from an investor perspective though. Very interested to see how it plays out and how these mega rounds work in a situation where you can’t get bought and the talent can be poached at any moment.

Talk soon,
Adam

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