OpenAI has entered a multibillion-dollar agreement with chipmaker AMD that could result in a 10 percent equity stake in the company. The deal signals a major shift in the artificial intelligence hardware landscape and marks AMD’s largest win to date in its competition with AI chip leader Nvidia.
Japan’s most popular beer, Asahi Super Dry, could run out this weekend after a massive ransomware attack crippled production at nearly all of Asahi Group Holdings Ltd.’s factories.
The Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration announced that American contractors have a record number of agreements with foreign government buyers.
Walmart CEO Doug McMillon stated this week that artificial intelligence will impact “literally every job” in the company, as the retail giant braces for a major transformation in its workforce. Speaking at a workforce conference in Bentonville, Arkansas, McMillon said the company plans to maintain its current headcount of approximately 2.1 million employees globally, even as AI significantly alters job functions, required skills, and day-to-day responsibilities.
On CNBC’s Squawk Box, Ford CEO Jim Farley applauded President Trump’s proposed 25 percent tariff on heavy‑duty trucks, calling it an opportunity to level the playing field for American manufacturers. He acknowledged, however, that parts tariffs—ranging from 25 to 70 percent—create a major “headwind” for Ford, adding roughly $2 billion in costs. Farley expressed optimism that solutions are within reach through ongoing negotiations with the administration.
Alabama continues to earn national recognition as a leading destination for business investment, with Area Development magazine ranking the state among the top performers in its 2025 Top States for Business report. The annual ranking highlights states that excel in attracting and supporting economic growth.
Starbucks announced Thursday that it will lay off 900 corporate employees and close hundreds of stores across North America as part of a sweeping $1 billion restructuring plan. The decision, unveiled by CEO Brian Niccol in a letter to employees, marks the second round of layoffs since he took over the company in August 2024.
Despite Gov. Gavin Newsom’s repeated boasts about California’s economy ranking fourth in the world, the state is struggling to provide jobs for its residents. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, California had the highest unemployment rate in the nation in August at 5.5%, a figure unchanged from July. The Golden State is one of only a handful of states with an unemployment rate above 5%, well above the national average of 4.3%.
The Trump administration is touting a major economic resurgence as a result of its renewed pro-growth, pro-energy, and pro-investment agenda. At a press conference this week, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt highlighted key indicators showing that the U.S. economy is rebounding strongly under President Donald Trump’s leadership—just months after he returned to office.
Marvel actor Mark Ruffalo is sounding the alarm over Disney’s recent suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live, warning that the entertainment giant could face major financial fallout if the show is canceled.
