July 5, 2025

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Google, OpenAI Face Perplexity Max, AI Spending to Hit $632B

In the fast-evolving world of AI, several key developments are unfolding. Hong Kong banks are leveraging AI to boost efficiency, reporting a 4.5% asset increase and a 7.8% profit rise in 2024. Meanwhile, Perplexity AI is testing the waters with its Perplexity Max subscription, priced at $200 per month, offering premium AI access and early access to the Comet AI browser, aiming to compete with giants like Google and OpenAI. Global AI spending is projected to exceed $632 billion by 2028, fueling investment opportunities in companies such as Dell, Adobe, and Microsoft. TSMC, a critical player in AI chip manufacturing for companies like Nvidia and Apple, has seen its stock surge by 37% in three months, with analysts predicting a 54% earnings jump this quarter. Some experts suggest TSMC could be a more strategic AI investment than Nvidia. However, not all is smooth sailing; Helen Toner, a former OpenAI board member, questions Meta's AI hiring strategy, pointing to organizational challenges and competition from China's DeepSeek. Ford's CEO, Jim Farley, predicts AI could displace half of U.S. white-collar jobs, a view shared by other industry leaders, yet Ford's stock saw a slight increase despite this prediction. On the innovation front, Clara Technologies has launched Sales Buddi, an AI sales coaching app, while Snorter, an AI crypto trading bot, gains traction with its anti-rug pull mechanism and successful SNORT token presale raising over $1.5 million. AppLovin and Duolingo, powered by AI, are also identified as stocks with strong buy ratings, showing potential upsides of 37% and 24%, respectively. Finally, Zeta Global is targeting $2 billion in revenue by 2028 with its AI-driven marketing solutions, though high stock-based compensation remains a factor.

Key Takeaways

  • Hong Kong banks are increasing profits by using AI to improve efficiency and manage risks.
  • Perplexity AI launched Perplexity Max, a $200/month subscription, to compete with Google and OpenAI.
  • Global AI spending is expected to exceed $632 billion by 2028, benefiting companies like Dell, Adobe, and Microsoft.
  • TSMC's stock has surged 37% in three months due to high demand for AI chips from companies like Nvidia and Apple.
  • Former OpenAI board member questions Meta's AI hiring strategy and ability to compete with companies like China's DeepSeek.
  • Ford's CEO predicts AI could replace half of U.S. white-collar jobs.
  • Clara Technologies launched Sales Buddi, an AI sales coaching app with quantum-enhanced AI.
  • Snorter, an AI crypto trading bot, has gained popularity, raising over $1.5 million in its SNORT token presale.
  • AppLovin and Duolingo are identified as AI-powered stocks with strong buy ratings and potential upsides of 37% and 24%, respectively.
  • Zeta Global aims to reach $2 billion in revenue by 2028 with its AI-powered marketing solutions.

Hong Kong Banks Thrive with AI and Smart Trading in 2024

Hong Kong banks saw a 4.5% increase in assets and a 7.8% rise in profits in 2024, despite economic challenges. This growth was supported by controlling costs and more customer deposits. Banks are using AI to improve efficiency and manage risks. Hong Kong's goal to become a virtual asset hub may also create new financial opportunities for them. Experts believe these changes will help banks stay competitive.

Perplexity Max Offers Pricey AI Subscription Is It Worth $200 a Month

Perplexity AI launched Perplexity Max, a $200/month subscription for unlimited access to advanced AI tools. It includes early access to the Comet AI browser and priority use of AI models like OpenAI's o3-pro and Anthropic's Claude Opus 4. This move aims to increase revenue and compete with Google and OpenAI. The high price raises questions about value, data privacy, and equal access to technology. Some worry it could widen the gap between those who can and cannot afford advanced AI.

AI Investments Soar Top Stocks to Watch Now

Global spending on AI is expected to reach over $632 billion by 2028, creating big investment opportunities. Companies like Dell, Adobe, and Microsoft are leading the way in AI innovation. Generative AI is becoming a key technology, projected to reach $644 billion by 2025. Investors are now focusing on real-world value and long-term growth in AI. Investing in AI infrastructure, software, and chip manufacturing could bring significant returns.

Will TSMC Stock Skyrocket This July Experts Predict

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSMC) stock has risen 37% in the last three months and may reach new highs in July. TSMC's strong market share in semiconductor manufacturing is driving growth. Demand for AI chips from companies like Nvidia and Apple is increasing. TSMC is building new plants to meet this demand and is raising prices. Analysts expect TSMC's earnings to jump 54% this quarter, making the stock attractive to investors.

Forget Nvidia This AI Stock Could Be a Better Buy

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is a key player in the AI industry. TSMC manufactures most high-performance AI chips used by companies like Nvidia and Apple. Demand for these chips is boosting TSMC's revenue, with a 35% increase in the first quarter of 2025. TSMC is expanding its operations to reduce risks related to geopolitical tensions. Some experts believe TSMC is a strong long-term investment compared to other AI stocks.

Zuckerberg's AI Hiring Questioned by Ex-OpenAI Board Member

Helen Toner, a former OpenAI board member, questions whether Meta's large spending on AI talent will guarantee success. She notes Meta's past reputation for a dysfunctional team. Toner also mentions that China's DeepSeek is providing strong competition to Meta's AI models. She wonders if Meta can change its organizational issues and keep top engineers. Toner highlights the global competition between the U.S. and China in AI development.

Ford Stock Rises Despite CEO's AI Job Loss Prediction

Ford CEO Jim Farley predicts AI could replace half of all white-collar jobs in the U.S. Investors seemed unfazed, and Ford stock rose slightly. Farley's projection aligns with similar views from Amazon and JPMorgan Chase. Meanwhile, in a race, a Chevrolet Corvette beat a Ford Mustang in speed and cornering. Analysts have a Hold rating on Ford stock, with a potential downside risk.

Clara Tech Launches Quantum-AI Sales App Sales Buddi

Clara Technologies (CLTE) launched Sales Buddi, an AI sales coaching app, on the Play Store. Sales Buddi uses quantum-enhanced AI to predict buyer intent. Its features include a Sales Strategy Builder and Quantum-AI Sales Mastermind. Enterprise modules like Lead Bot and Appointment Setter automate outreach. The app is available on both Apple and Google platforms, reaching a wide user base. CLTE aims to disrupt the $15 billion sales enablement market.

Snorter AI Crypto Trading Bot Gains Popularity

Crypto trading signals are becoming more popular, with AI-powered bots like Snorter gaining attention. Snorter offers low fees and a simple interface for trading on decentralized exchanges. It helps traders find good entry points for new tokens and protects against certain exploits. Snorter also includes an anti-rug pull mechanism to safeguard traders. The SNORT token presale has raised over $1.5 million, offering staking rewards for investors.

Two AI Tech Stocks Set for Big Gains AppLovin and Duolingo

The technology services industry is growing, driven by AI and digitization. AppLovin and Duolingo are two AI-powered stocks with strong buy ratings. AppLovin uses AI to improve mobile app marketing and monetization. Duolingo uses AI to personalize language learning and create content. Analysts predict significant price increases for both stocks, with potential upsides of 37% and 24% respectively.

Zeta Global AI Marketing Play Wall Street Misses

Zeta Global aims to reach $2 billion in revenue by 2028, driven by AI-powered growth. The company's AI Agent Studio helps marketers with faster campaign execution. Clients have seen lower customer acquisition costs and increased spending. High stock-based compensation causes some dilution, but buybacks limit the impact. Zeta's stock price is below the sector average, suggesting a potential 70% upside if it meets its goals.

Sources

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