Skip the hassle of online searches; we’ve rounded up the must-know global tech news for January 11, 2024. Stay in the loop!
1. First Bitcoin ETFs approved by US regulators
The US SEC has approved 11 spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) from companies like Grayscale, Fidelity, and BlackRock. This marks a significant shift after years of SEC denials. The move facilitates institutional investors’ entry into cryptocurrency. (the Verge)
2. OpenAI’s custom GPT Store is now open for business
OpenAI’s GPT Store is now live, allowing users to share custom chatbots created through the GPT Builder program. Initially delayed, the platform is accessible to subscribers of OpenAI’s paid tiers. The company also plans to introduce a revenue-sharing program for GPT creators in Q1 2024. (the Verge)
3. How Microsoft found a potential new battery material using AI
Microsoft and Pacific Northwest National Lab’s AI-driven collaboration discovers a solid-state electrolyte for potential safer and more efficient batteries, showcasing the accelerated potential of generative AI in materials science. (the Verge)
4. Microsoft challenges Apple as world’s most valuable company
Apple faces the risk of losing its title as the world’s most valuable company to Microsoft due to concerns about iPhone sales, with Apple’s market cap at $2.866 trillion, slightly ahead of Microsoft’s $2.837 trillion. A recent 4% dip in Apple’s stock further narrows the gap. (Reuters)
5. CBOE filings show spot bitcoin ETFs slated to begin trading on Thursday
Spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs), including those from Ark/21Shares, Franklin Templeton, WisdomTree, and Invesco/Galaxy, are set to begin trading on Thursday, pending approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), according to CBOE filings. (Reuters)
6. SEC account hack renews spotlight on X’s security concerns
The recent hack of the U.S. SEC X account has raised security concerns about the platform. X confirmed the breach, attributing it to unauthorized access through a compromised phone number and the absence of two-factor authentication. (Reuters)
