U.S. Chip Tariffs Exempt Apple in Latest Development
In the realm of technology and business, several significant developments have taken place. Here's a roundup of some of the most noteworthy news:
Autonomous Vehicles Take a Leap Forward
Amazon-owned robotaxi company Zoox has received approval from regulators to operate its purpose-built electric vehicles without steering wheels, pedals, or mirrors. This move marks a significant step towards the future of autonomous transportation.
Ayala Corp's Transformation Journey
Ayala Corp, a 191-year-old banking-to-property group, is tasked with revitalizing its vast leasing portfolio of aging malls, office buildings, and hotels. The family's $3.4 billion fortune, ranked No. 7 on the Philippines' 50 Richest for 2025, is headed by Mariana Zobel de Ayala, who is focusing on building more consumer-focused businesses.
New Leadership at Ayala Corp
Mariana Zobel de Ayala, the eighth-generation heir of Ayala Corp, was appointed as a managing director at the conglomerate this March. She joined her brother Jaime Alfonso and cousin Jaime Urquijo, who have also been promoted as part of Ayala Corp's next-generation of leaders.
College Students and AI: Adapting to the Future
College students express concerns about the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on their future careers. While they recognise that AI will change job responsibilities rather than fully replace workers, they are worried about adapting and maintaining essential human skills in a rapidly evolving labor market. The need for accessible AI education and balancing AI use with developing personal and social abilities are central to their concerns.
ESPN's Streaming Service Launch
ESPN is set to launch its standalone streaming service on August 21, just hours after announcing a deal to purchase the NFL Network from the football league.
Trade Tensions and Tariffs
President Donald Trump has doubled the levy on imports from India from 25% to 50%. The additional tariff will go into effect within 21 days.
Apple's Continued Investment in US Manufacturing
Apple has pledged another $100 billion investment to expand manufacturing in the U.S., adding to a $500 billion commitment announced earlier this year by CEO Tim Cook. The announcement includes a new "American Manufacturing Program" that would bring more of Apple's supply chain into the U.S.
Legal Battle in Texas
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has filed a lawsuit with the state Supreme Court, asking the court to declare that state Rep. Gene Wu forfeited his office when he fled the state in an effort to block Republicans' redistricting efforts.
Daniella Pierson's Business Criticism
Daniella Pierson, founder and CEO of lifestyle newsletter The Newsette and co-founder of mental health startup Wondermind, has faced criticism from former employees for prioritizing her image over building a successful business.
Ayala Corp's Historical Roots
Ayala Corp traces its roots to a distillery built in 1834 by Antonio de Ayala. The conglomerate played a key role in developing Makati City, a financial hub in the Manilla metropolitan area. Mariana Zobel de Ayala's grandfather, Jaime Zobel de Ayala, 91, took the helm in 1983.
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Forbes' daily newsletter might feature an article discussing Daniella Pierson's recent criticism from former employees, questioning her business decisions and focus on image over growth.
In the education-and-self-development sector, college students are grappling with the implications of AI on their future careers, expressing concern about adapting to a rapidly evolving labor market and maintaining essential human skills.
