NEWS YOU CAN’T MISS

Intel’s New Shareholder? The United States

Intel Corporation, the leading American semiconductor manufacturer, has taken on an unexpected partner: the United States government.

In a landmark $8.9 billion deal, federal grants were converted into equity, giving Washington a 9.9% stake and making taxpayers Intel’s largest shareholder.

Key points:

• Why semiconductors matter: They are the foundation of modern technology, powering everything from smartphones and cars to supercomputers, defense systems, and AI.

• Shift in policy: Government support has traditionally come through subsidies, tax breaks, or research funding. An equity stake means Washington now shares directly in Intel’s fortunes.

• Passive role: No board seats or control, but the stake links security, competitiveness, and technological leadership more closely than before.

• Intel’s benefits: Over $11 billion in backing boosts manufacturing, research, foundry capacity, and global competitiveness.

• Policy advantage: The investment secures leverage over domestic chip supply, which is critical for AI, defense, and next-generation computing.

• Risks ahead: Government ownership may unsettle foreign partners and dilute existing shareholders.

Despite these risks, the deal highlights a new era of industrial strategy, one where semiconductors - and especially AI hardware - are treated as national assets central to technological and economic leadership.

The AI App Helping Millions Find Jobs

Indonesia has a workforce of around 150 million people, and nearly 60% work in the informal sector - these are roles like construction, factory work, and delivery driving.

Pintarnya is making the job hunt faster and simpler for these workers. The Indonesian startup uses AI-powered matching with one-tap applications and walk-in interview options, helping workers secure jobs quickly - a crucial advantage for those who rely on daily wages and need reliable, immediate placement.

That focus on speed and accessibility has fueled rapid growth. Today, Pintarnya connects over 10 million job seekers with 40,000 employers nationwide.

Founded in 2022, the company has seen revenue grow fivefold in the past year and expects to break even by the end of 2025. It just raised $16.7 million to expand its platform and tech.

While finding jobs remain its core service, Pintarnya is also developing safer loan options for blue-collar workers, many of whom need financial support to cover expenses between paychecks or to invest in tools and training that help them stay competitive.

Looking ahead, the founders see Pintarnya evolving into a “super app” for Indonesia’s workers: a platform that not only connects people to jobs but also helps them save, invest, and upskill as they build toward more stable and secure futures.

K-Pop Is Everywhere. Do You “Stan”?

With over 150 million fans worldwide and global stars like BTS and BLACKPINK, the K-pop wave isn’t slowing down anytime soon. It’s everywhere: stadium tours, Coachella headliners, and now… movie theaters.

Netflix’s new film, KPop Demon Hunters, follows a girl group that hunts demons, all while balancing the pressures of fame, friendship, and a rival boy band. It’s already the No. 1 movie in theaters, pulling in nearly $20 million in just two days. 🍿

Its hit track “Golden” has been streamed over 400 million times on Spotify, and the movie has racked up more than 210 million views on Netflix.

With nearly 2% of the planet counted as fans, it’s clear this is more than just a trend. Are you riding the wave too?

ps. here’s your quick cheetsheat for K-pop: stan = a devoted fan, bias = your favorite member, comeback = a new release, and fanchant = coordinated fan chants during performances.