Startups, once bound by the traditional path of raising venture capital (VC) funding, are now exploring newer, founder-friendly financial models that offer more autonomy, sustainable growth, and strategic alignment. Direct funding—bypassing traditional VC gatekeepers and connecting founders directly with limited partners (LPs), angels, and family offices—has emerged as a powerful alternative. In recent years, especially…

Artificial intelligence continues to transform the global educational landscape, ushering in an era where access to advanced learning tools is no longer restricted to those who can afford commercial licenses or expensive subscriptions. In a landmark collaboration that underscores this transformation, Perplexity, an AI-powered answer engine built to rival traditional search models, has partnered with…

In a span of just 96 hours in early 2025, the artificial intelligence sector experienced a flurry of dealmaking activity that illuminated the breakneck pace at which the AI arms race is unfolding. From multibillion-dollar investments to strategic acquisitions and surprise partnerships, AI took center stage in a convergence of ambition, capital, and code. Fresh…

Over the past decade, South Korea has evolved into one of the most dynamic and robust startup ecosystems in the world. With a potent mix of government backing, technological infrastructure, cultural transformation, and global investment partnerships, Korea is now being recognized not just for its traditional corporate giants like Samsung and Hyundai, but for its…

In the shadow of profound technological advancements, humanity stands at a crossroads, reflecting on what it means to be human. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has reignited fundamental questions surrounding identity, purpose, and meaning. With machine learning models reaching unprecedented cognitive capacities and generative AI blurring the line between synthetic creativity and human intuition,…

In July 2025, Malaysia introduced sweeping new export control rules on shipments of artificial intelligence (AI) chips and components containing U.S.-origin technology, sending ripples through the global semiconductor and AI development industries. While much of the attention has been on China’s chip ambitions and restrictions imposed by the U.S. Department of Commerce in 2022 and…