26 Jun 2025, 01:08

U.S.' largest memory chips maker Micron raises Q4 forecast to $11B on AI demand

Micron has raised its Q4 financial predictions based on a surge in demand for artificial intelligence hardware, with the expectation that the demand wil persist throughout the year. With increasing AI adoption, Micron, a producer of hardware essential to AI development, is experiencing a surge in demand. Micron raises Q4 predictions Micron Technology Inc., the largest U.S.-based manufacturer of computer memory chips, has raised its fiscal fourth-quarter revenue prediction up to $11B. This change was brought on by the surge in demand for artificial intelligence (AI) hardware. The new figure significantly exceeded Wall Street’s initial expectations and sent Micron shares climbing in after-hours trading. The Idaho-based company announced on Wednesday that it expects its fourth-quarter revenue to range between $10.4B and $11B. These figures are well above the average analyst estimate of $9.89, according to data compiled by Bloomberg . Investors responded positively to the prediction, and Micron shares gained over 6% in extended trading. This year, the company’s stock has surged by 51% so far, outperforming many peers in the semiconductor sector. Earnings per share, excluding certain items, are projected to come in at around $2.50, which is also more than the estimated $2.03. This increase is due to Micron experiencing growing demand for its high-bandwidth memory (HBM) products, which are integral to training and operating large-scale AI models. AI demand boosts Micron’s optimism Micron’s latest earnings guidance shows just how important memory technology has become to AI infrastructure and innovation. Companies like cloud providers or chipmakers that build AI systems are relying on more advanced memory components to support the heavy processing requirements of modern AI workloads. Micron’s high-bandwidth memory is used in data centers and servers that run machine learning and generative AI applications. These applications, such as those powering AI chatbots or image generators, require fast data access and vast storage capacity. Micron previously faced tighter profit margins due to an oversupply in some memory segments and weakened demand for consumer electronics, but the shift toward AI has helped the company bounce back from recent struggles. “The growing complexity of AI models requires more advanced memory solutions, and we’re seeing strong interest in our HBM products,” Micron said in its earnings statement Wednesday. Wall Street analysts have stated that Micron is in a strategic position in the current AI industry and has the ability to monetize the growing demand for specialized memory. Although overall PC and smartphone markets remain relatively stagnant, Micron’s diversification into AI, cloud, and data center customers has helped offset these weaknesses. Analysts expect that trajectory to continue as AI development accelerates globally. Micron’s leadership suggested that the interest in AI adoption will likely persist through 2025. However, the company remains cautious about broader macroeconomic risks, including fluctuations in consumer tech spending and potential supply chain disruptions. Cryptopolitan Academy: Tired of market swings? Learn how DeFi can help you build steady passive income. Register Now

26 Jun 2025, 00:40

SoFi Crypto: A Bold Comeback with Revolutionary Blockchain Remittances

BitcoinWorld SoFi Crypto: A Bold Comeback with Revolutionary Blockchain Remittances Get ready for a game-changer! SoFi, a prominent personal finance company, is making a significant splash in the digital asset space, announcing not only the reintroduction of its SoFi crypto trading services but also an ambitious venture into international money transfers powered by blockchain technology. This isn’t just about buying Bitcoin; it’s about reshaping how we think about global finance. For anyone following the evolution of financial services, this move by SoFi signals a powerful convergence of traditional banking and the decentralized future. What’s Driving SoFi’s Crypto Trading Relaunch? SoFi’s decision to re-enter the crypto arena isn’t a whimsical one. It’s a calculated move reflecting a maturing regulatory environment and increasing consumer demand for digital assets. Initially, SoFi users will gain the ability to buy and hold major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH). But that’s just the beginning. The company has hinted at an expanded suite of offerings, including exciting possibilities like crypto staking and even crypto-backed borrowing. Imagine using your digital assets not just as an investment, but as collateral for loans – that’s the kind of financial flexibility SoFi aims to unlock. This expansion comes at a time when more traditional financial institutions are exploring or adopting crypto. What makes SoFi’s approach compelling is its existing user base and its integrated financial platform. For many, SoFi is already their go-to for banking, loans, and investments. Adding robust crypto trading directly into this ecosystem creates a seamless experience, potentially lowering the barrier to entry for millions who might be curious about crypto but hesitant to use dedicated crypto exchanges. Revolutionizing Transfers with Blockchain Remittances Beyond simple trading, perhaps the most groundbreaking aspect of SoFi’s announcement is its foray into international remittances using stablecoins and blockchain networks. For years, sending money across borders has been a slow, expensive, and often opaque process. Traditional remittance services typically involve multiple intermediaries, leading to high fees, unfavorable exchange rates, and delays that can stretch for days. SoFi aims to disrupt this model by leveraging the inherent advantages of blockchain technology: Speed: Transactions on blockchain networks can settle in minutes or even seconds, rather than days. Cost-Efficiency: By reducing the number of intermediaries, transaction fees can be significantly lower. Transparency: Blockchain ledgers offer an immutable and verifiable record of transactions. Accessibility: Stablecoins, pegged to fiat currencies like the U.S. dollar, offer the stability of traditional money with the transfer benefits of crypto. Consider the impact on migrant workers sending money home, or businesses conducting international trade. Faster, cheaper, and more reliable transfers can have a profound positive effect on economies and individual livelihoods. This strategic focus on blockchain remittances positions SoFi at the forefront of financial innovation. How Will Stablecoin Transfers Work? The core of SoFi’s remittance service will rely on stablecoin transfers . Unlike volatile cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, stablecoins are designed to maintain a stable value, usually by being pegged 1:1 to a fiat currency like the US dollar. This eliminates the price fluctuation risk typically associated with crypto, making them ideal for transfers and payments. Here’s a simplified breakdown of how it might function: A SoFi user initiates an international transfer, specifying the amount in their local currency. SoFi converts the fiat currency into a stablecoin (e.g., USDC or USDT) on a chosen blockchain network. The stablecoin is quickly sent across the blockchain to the recipient’s designated wallet or a local partner. The recipient can then convert the stablecoin back into their local fiat currency through SoFi’s network or a partner, often with significantly lower fees and faster processing times than traditional methods. This innovative approach could redefine the landscape of global money movement, offering a powerful alternative to legacy systems. Navigating the Regulatory Tides: The Role of OCC Guidance SoFi’s confident stride back into crypto isn’t happening in a vacuum. It follows significant shifts in the regulatory landscape, particularly under the Trump administration, which saw a more open stance towards digital assets. Crucially, new guidance from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has played a pivotal role. The OCC guidance has provided much-needed clarity for federally chartered banks and savings associations, explicitly stating that they can engage in certain cryptocurrency-related activities. This includes holding stablecoin reserves, facilitating crypto transactions, and even providing custody services for digital assets. Such guidance from a key banking regulator has legitimized crypto operations for traditional financial institutions, reducing regulatory uncertainty and paving the way for players like SoFi to innovate with greater confidence. This regulatory clarity is a massive boon for the entire crypto ecosystem. It encourages more institutional participation, which in turn can lead to greater liquidity, better infrastructure, and enhanced security for users. SoFi’s move is a direct reflection of this evolving regulatory environment, demonstrating that financial innovation can thrive when clear guidelines are established. The Future is Here: Benefits and Challenges Ahead SoFi’s re-entry into crypto and its push for blockchain remittances heralds a future where digital assets are seamlessly integrated into everyday financial lives. The benefits are clear: Enhanced User Experience: A single platform for traditional banking, investments, and crypto. Financial Inclusion: Lower-cost remittances can empower individuals in developing nations. Innovation Catalyst: SoFi’s move could inspire other traditional finance players to accelerate their crypto adoption. Global Connectivity: Faster, cheaper international transfers foster greater economic integration. However, challenges remain. Regulatory frameworks are still evolving globally, and SoFi will need to navigate diverse legal landscapes for its remittance services. Market volatility, while mitigated by stablecoins for transfers, remains a factor for direct crypto holdings. User education will also be key to ensure widespread adoption and understanding of these new financial tools. Comparison: Traditional vs. Blockchain Remittances Feature Traditional Remittances Blockchain Remittances (SoFi) Transaction Speed Typically 1-5 business days Minutes to hours Cost/Fees High, often percentage-based + hidden fees Significantly lower, transparent network fees Transparency Limited tracking, often requires inquiries Publicly verifiable on blockchain ledger Exchange Rates Often marked up, less favorable More competitive, near real-time rates Accessibility Requires bank accounts or physical agents Internet connection and digital wallet/app A Glimpse into SoFi’s Strategic Vision SoFi’s comprehensive strategy indicates a clear vision: to be a one-stop shop for all personal finance needs, bridging the gap between traditional banking and the burgeoning digital economy. By integrating SoFi crypto services and pioneering blockchain remittances, they are not just offering new products; they are building a more connected, efficient, and accessible financial future for their members. This move is a testament to the growing mainstream acceptance of digital assets and the transformative power of blockchain technology. As regulatory environments continue to mature, we can expect more financial institutions to follow SoFi’s lead, further accelerating the adoption of cryptocurrencies and decentralized finance solutions globally. For consumers, this means more choices, lower costs, and greater control over their money. To learn more about the latest crypto market trends, explore our article on key developments shaping Bitcoin institutional adoption . This post SoFi Crypto: A Bold Comeback with Revolutionary Blockchain Remittances first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team

25 Jun 2025, 22:15

Jensen Huang said Nvidia’s next big move after AI is robotics, starting with self-driving cars

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang told investors on Wednesday that robotics is now the company’s second-biggest focus after AI, with autonomous vehicles set to lead the charge. He made the comments during Nvidia’s annual shareholder meeting, according to CNBC, saying both AI and robotics are “multitrillion-dollar growth opportunities” that will shape the company’s direction. This announcement comes while Nvidia’s total revenue is exploding, driven mostly by the continued demand for its data center GPUs. Those chips power major AI tools like ChatGPT, and now Nvidia is planning to use the same tech for robots and self-driving cars. A year ago, Nvidia reorganized its business segments and placed automotive and robotics under a single reporting line. Last quarter, that combined unit brought in $567 million, making up just 1% of total revenue, but it grew 72% year-over-year, showing exactly why Jensen is focusing on it now. The expansion into robotics isn’t a pivot, it’s a buildout, and Jensen confirmed that training and deploying robotics software will need Nvidia’s AI chips , both in the cloud and on physical hardware like cars and humanoid robots. Jensen pushes robots powered by AI chips During the meeting, Jensen pointed to Nvidia’s Drive platform, already used by Mercedes-Benz for autonomous driving systems. He also said Nvidia has developed a suite of AI models for humanoid robots, under a project called Cosmos. “We’re working towards a day where there will be billions of robots, hundreds of millions of autonomous vehicles, and hundreds of thousands of robotic factories that can be powered by Nvidia technology,” Jensen said. The company is already supporting these efforts by bundling more than just chips. Jensen said Nvidia no longer considers itself a chip company, and instead operates as an AI infrastructure platform. That means they’re also building software, cloud services, and networking hardware to connect their AI chips into full-scale systems. The data center segment, which is the company’s biggest driver, saw 73% year-over-year growth, and Nvidia’s full-year revenue is now projected to rise 53% to nearly $200 billion. Still, Nvidia is facing real problems outside the U.S., especially in China, where sales have effectively stopped. In April, the Trump administration, now back in the White House, introduced stricter rules that banned exports of Nvidia’s H20 AI processor, a chip specifically made to comply with earlier restrictions. Nvidia later confirmed that the new policy will cost them $8 billion in lost sales, along with a $4.5 billion inventory write-off. Export bans hit China business as Nvidia tops $3.77T Jensen didn’t hold back in describing the impact. “The $50 billion China market is effectively closed to U.S. industry,” he said last month. And the situation may get worse. Another rule is already in the works that would expand the list of banned AI chip exports, again targeting the Chinese market. Despite that, Nvidia’s stock is surging. On the same day as the meeting, shares climbed over 4%, closing at a record $154.31, beating the previous all-time high from January 6. That move pushed Nvidia’s market cap to $3.77 trillion, putting it just ahead of Microsoft, and making it the most valuable public company in the world. Apple came in third with a $3 trillion valuation. At the same meeting, shareholders voted to approve the executive compensation plan and re-elected all 13 board members. However, proposals asking for a deeper diversity report and updates to how meetings are run both failed to pass. But the real story wasn’t governance, it was about what comes next. KEY Difference Wire helps crypto brands break through and dominate headlines fast

25 Jun 2025, 22:06

Kalshi Raises $185 Million to Expand Technology Amid Regulatory Progress and Growing Prediction Market Interest

Kalshi secures $185 million in funding, underscoring growing investor confidence in regulated prediction markets within the crypto and financial sectors. The capital injection will enable Kalshi to expand its technology

25 Jun 2025, 21:55

Meta has announced the launch of its AI-powered message summaries feature on WhatsApp

Meta has announced the launch of its AI-powered message summaries feature on WhatsApp. It is designed to help users quickly catch up on unread messages in chats. According to the company, the summary is only visible to the user, not others in the chat. The feature is off by default, but WhatsApp shows a little icon to let the user know they can use it. Meta is releasing the function first in the US, where it will work with English. It will be available in more languages and countries by the end of the year. As availability widens, more users will be able to take advantage of these enhancements and discover new ways to catch up on their unread messages. Meta says that it will not compromise message privacy This feature uses Meta’s Private Processing technology to ensure summaries are generated securely, without compromising message privacy. The feature builds on the AI technology that Meta released in April. It allowed the company to implement AI features that don’t impact encryption or user privacy. “Private Processing will allow users to leverage powerful AI features, while preserving WhatsApp’s core privacy promise, ensuring no one except you and the people you’re talking to can access or share your personal messages, not even Meta or WhatsApp,” the company said in a blog post. The feature is available to both Android and iOS. To that end, all users will have the same experience on either operating system and will benefit from the same message summarization feature. Meta has been accused of sharing personal data by several nations in the past. One of the most recent ones is Nigeria. FCCPC Chief Executive Officer Adamu Abdullahi said investigations carried out in conjunction with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) between May 2021 and December 2023 revealed “invasive practices against data subjects/consumers in Nigeria.” Meta stock surge The company that owns Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp is working to improve the AI part of its business. For instance, it recently paid $7.4 billion for 49% of the startup Scale AI. In addition, the company was accused by OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman , of making “giant offers” to his team members, including $100 million “signing bonuses.” These events backed larger market trends and gave investors more faith in Meta’s ability to grow in the future. As of the end of the last quarter, Meta’s stock price went up 18%, which is more than the market’s 12% rise over the past year. Looking at the company’s longer-term performance, Meta’s total shareholder return, including share price and dividends, reached 336.81% over three years. This did much better than the US Interactive Media and Services industry and the market over the past year. Meta’s return was higher than the industry’s 7.4% return and the market’s 12.2% return during the same period. The 18% rise in Meta’s stock price over the last quarter also differs from the average analyst price goal of $703.89, which suggests room for more growth than the market expects. Pavel Durov accuses WhatsApp of copying Telegram In an interview , Pavel Durov said that Meta has employed a team to watch their moves. He says WhatsApp applies their ideas after Telegram uses them for 5 years. He said, “WhatsApp copies everything we do with a five-year delay… But it doesn’t bother me, it validates our choices. I’ve already met Mark Zuckerberg. I respect him as a business leader, but, with such means, I still think they could show more imagination.” However, Telegram does not employ a default chatbot on the app. Instead, users have been given the liberty to integrate the chatbot of their choice. Cryptopolitan Academy: Tired of market swings? Learn how DeFi can help you build steady passive income. Register Now

25 Jun 2025, 20:10

Crypto VCs Crown New Unicorn as Confidentiality Startup Zama Raises $57M at $1 Billion Valuation

Zama raised $57 million and launched a public testnet aimed at bringing privacy and encrypted smart contracts to public blockchains.