Despite a shaky global economy, 2023 proved to be a robust year for venture capital (VC)-backed companies aggressively acquiring startups. While the venture market tightened funding rounds amid rising interest rates, select high-growth firms tapped into their cash-rich reserves or raised acquisition-specific capital to secure strategic assets. These moves were primarily focused on innovation acquisition,…

Earlier this year, Microsoft announced a groundbreaking development poised to revolutionize the future of work—AI-powered “Agents” designed to operate autonomously within enterprise ecosystems. These agents don’t just assist in tasks, they embody a new AI paradigm that redefines collaboration, productivity, and business decision-making. Presented during Microsoft’s Build 2024 conference, these agents go beyond the capabilities…

In a groundbreaking move that signals the rise of Eastern Europe in the global AI landscape, Bulgaria-based Lace AI has announced securing a $19 million seed round after experiencing an astounding 1000% growth. The seed stage funding, led by key investors including South Central Ventures and Launchub Ventures, positions Lace AI as the fastest-growing startup…

Building a unicorn—a startup valued at over $1 billion—is often seen as the pinnacle of startup success. But what doesn’t always make headlines are the nuanced lessons, calculated pivots, and long-term strategies that contribute to sustainable growth beyond the initial glitter of valuation. A recent piece from Crunchbase shines a spotlight on Masin, the co-founder…

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve and permeate various aspects of business operations, issues of data privacy, governance, and compliance have moved to the forefront of enterprise concerns. Companies are under increasing scrutiny to manage sensitive data responsibly and maintain compliance with a growing number of regulatory standards like GDPR, CCPA, and HIPAA. In…

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) recently ignited a fresh controversy with its implementation of a new compulsory viewing rule for Oscar voters. In a move aimed at enhancing transparency and fairness in the selection process, the Academy now mandates voters to confirm they have watched all the nominated films in major…