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  • Stacy Brown-Philpot: Championing Overlooked Founders in VC

    Stacy Brown-Philpot: Championing Overlooked Founders in VC

    Stacy Brown-Philpot: Investing in the Future of Venture Capital

    In the ever-evolving landscape of Silicon Valley, where trends shift faster than the seasons, one venture capitalist is charting a course that feels both refreshingly old-school and undeniably forward-thinking. Stacy Brown-Philpot, at the helm of Cherryrock Capital, is making a deliberate move away from the current obsession with AI and mega-rounds, choosing instead to focus on something that has always been at the heart of successful venture capital: identifying and supporting promising founders who are often overlooked.

    A Return to Foundational VC Principles

    While much of the industry is captivated by the promise of AI and the allure of massive funding rounds, Brown-Philpot and Cherryrock Capital are operating with a different philosophy. This approach, reminiscent of venture capital’s earlier days, prioritizes the fundamental principles of identifying talent, providing mentorship, and offering the resources necessary for startups to thrive. This strategic decision is particularly relevant in today’s market, where the focus on AI is undeniable.

    The decision by Stacy Brown-Philpot to focus on overlooked founders is a conscious one, driven by a belief in the inherent value of diverse perspectives and the potential for innovation that often goes unnoticed. By concentrating on these founders, Cherryrock Capital is positioning itself to capitalize on opportunities that others may miss, fostering a more inclusive and dynamic ecosystem.

    Cherryrock Capital’s Investment Strategy

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  • Stacy Brown-Philpot: Investing in Overlooked Founders

    In a venture capital world dominated by headline-grabbing AI deals and massive funding rounds, Stacy Brown-Philpot is charting a different course. As reported on February 14, 2026, by TechCrunch, the former TaskRabbit CEO is running Cherryrock Capital with a focus reminiscent of venture capital’s earlier days: investing in overlooked founders.

    Context: Silicon Valley’s VC landscape has undergone significant shifts. The focus has largely been on backing AI startups and participating in mega-rounds, often leaving other promising ventures behind. This shift has created an opportunity for investors like Brown-Philpot, who are keen on identifying and supporting founders who may not fit the current mold but possess immense potential.

    Analysis: Brown-Philpot’s approach with Cherryrock Capital represents a strategic pivot. While many firms chase the latest trends, Cherryrock Capital is doubling down on its commitment to founders who may be underestimated. This strategy could yield significant returns, as these overlooked ventures often have a clearer path to growth and less competition for funding. Her focus on this approach is a direct response to the current market dynamics, where some firms are more focused on the hype than on the fundamentals of building a successful business.

    Implications: This move by Stacy Brown-Philpot and Cherryrock Capital could signal a broader trend in the venture capital space. As the market matures, there may be a resurgence of interest in backing founders with unique visions and solid business models, rather than solely chasing the latest tech buzzwords. This shift could lead to a more diverse and robust startup ecosystem, with opportunities for founders who may have previously been overlooked.

    Keywords: Venture Capital, Startups, Executive Moves, Stacy Brown-Philpot, Cherryrock Capital, Investment, AI, Silicon Valley, Founders, Funding

    Sources:

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  • Stacy Brown-Philpot: Championing Overlooked Founders in VC

    Stacy Brown-Philpot: Championing Overlooked Founders in VC

    Stacy Brown-Philpot: A VC Champion for Overlooked Founders

    In the ever-evolving landscape of Silicon Valley, where trends shift faster than the seasons, a refreshing approach to venture capital is emerging. While many firms chase the latest AI deals and mega-rounds, Stacy Brown-Philpot, through Cherryrock Capital, is charting a different course. It’s a path that harks back to the fundamental principles of venture capital: identifying and nurturing promising founders who might otherwise be overlooked. This approach is particularly relevant in today’s dynamic financial environment.

    A Return to the Fundamentals of Venture Capital

    The venture capital world, often associated with rapid innovation and high-stakes investments, can sometimes lose sight of its core mission. The pursuit of the next big AI deal or the allure of massive funding rounds can overshadow the importance of supporting emerging founders. Stacy Brown-Philpot, however, is leading the charge in a return to the basics. Her strategy with Cherryrock Capital is a testament to the enduring value of early-stage investment and the significance of backing individuals with innovative ideas.

    This shift in focus is not just a matter of strategy; it’s a reflection of a deeper understanding of the venture capital ecosystem. By concentrating on overlooked founders, Cherryrock Capital is positioning itself to discover and support the next generation of industry leaders. This approach is particularly relevant given the current economic climate and the evolving dynamics of the venture capital and finance sectors.

    The Cherryrock Capital Philosophy

    The success of Cherryrock Capital lies in its commitment to a more personal and hands-on approach. Unlike firms that spread their resources thinly across numerous investments, Cherryrock Capital dedicates its expertise and resources to a select group of startups. This allows for a deeper level of engagement with the founders, providing them with the guidance and support they need to succeed. This model is a throwback to the earlier days of venture capital, when relationships and trust were as important as the bottom line.

    The firm’s investment strategy is guided by a clear vision: to identify and invest in founders who bring unique perspectives and innovative solutions to the market. This commitment is not just about financial returns; it’s about making a real impact on the Silicon Valley ecosystem. By focusing on Startups that might not otherwise receive funding, Cherryrock Capital is helping to foster a more diverse and inclusive venture capital landscape.

    The Impact of the Approach

    The impact of Cherryrock Capital’s approach extends beyond mere financial returns. By supporting Startups that are often overlooked, the firm is contributing to a more dynamic and innovative Silicon Valley. This focus on individual founders fosters a culture of mentorship and collaboration, where experienced investors like Stacy Brown-Philpot share their knowledge and expertise to help these Founders thrive. This also provides an alternative to the often-intense focus on AI and mega-rounds, which can sometimes overshadow the importance of fundamental innovation.

    The success of Cherryrock Capital serves as a reminder that Venture Capital (VC) is more than just about chasing the latest trends. It’s about finding the right Founders, providing them with the necessary resources, and helping them build successful companies. In a world increasingly dominated by algorithms and AI deals, this human-centered approach is not only refreshing but also essential.

    Looking Ahead

    Stacy Brown-Philpot’s leadership at Cherryrock Capital offers a compelling model for the future of venture capital. By focusing on Startups and prioritizing relationships, the firm is setting a new standard for Investment. As the Venture Capital landscape continues to evolve, Cherryrock Capital’s commitment to overlooked Founders is a testament to the enduring value of human connection and strategic insight. This approach is a strategic move to ensure success in the complex world of finance.

    In a world of rapidly changing trends and shifting investment strategies, Stacy Brown-Philpot and Cherryrock Capital stand out as beacons of a more traditional, founder-focused approach to Venture Capital. Their dedication to supporting Startups and championing overlooked talent is a testament to the enduring values of the industry. This is how they are running Cherryrock Capital like a throwback to the earlier days of venture capital.

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  • Cuba’s Cigar Fair Postponed: Fuel Crisis & US Sanctions

    The news came mid-morning, a quiet ripple in a market already jittery. Cuba, the home of world-renowned cigars, was postponing its annual cigar fair, an event that usually draws thousands and generates significant revenue. The official reason? Fuel shortages and widespread blackouts. But the underlying cause, as anyone in the industry knows, is the ongoing economic pressure from the United States.

    This year, the fair, a key event for the Cuban economy, was slated to happen in February. Now, it’s indefinitely delayed. The ramifications are complex.

    The US has maintained a long-standing trade embargo against Cuba, and in recent years, this has tightened, particularly concerning oil imports. As a result, the island nation has been struggling with severe fuel shortages, leading to rolling blackouts that disrupt daily life and cripple businesses. This, in turn, has made it impossible to host an event of the fair’s scale.

    The impact is multi-layered. First, there’s the direct loss of revenue from the fair itself — the exhibitors, the tourists, the sales. Then, there’s the indirect damage to the Cuban cigar industry’s reputation and sales. It’s a blow to a sector that, in 2023, generated over $500 million in revenue, according to industry reports. This figure is now at risk.

    “The situation in Cuba is undeniably challenging,” said Dr. Maria Elena Garcia, an economist at the Center for Cuban Studies. “The US sanctions have created a chokehold, and the fuel shortages are the visible symptom. This postponement is just one example of the broader economic strain.”

    The postponement also reflects the broader economic fragility. It’s not just about the cigars; it’s about the entire ecosystem that supports them: the farmers, the factories, the exporters, and the tourism infrastructure that helps bring in the buyers. They all depend on a stable environment, which is increasingly hard to find.

    The postponement is a clear indicator of the economic realities. Or maybe it’s a sign of things to come.

    The ripple effects are being felt in global markets. The price of Cuban cigars, already premium, may increase further. Buyers are now scrambling to secure supplies, and the uncertainty is making it difficult to plan. The international cigar trade is a delicate dance, and the current situation has thrown a wrench into the works. It is all sort of up in the air.

    The postponement also highlights the political dimensions. The US policy is a constant, and this is a clear demonstration of how it’s affecting the Cuban economy.

    The postponement of the cigar fair is a moment to watch, a sign of the times.

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  • Alta & Public School Team Up: Styling Tools for Websites

    Alta & Public School Team Up: Styling Tools for Websites

    Alta and Public School Team Up to Bring Styling Tools to Websites

    In a move that’s set to redefine the online fashion experience, Alta, the app inspired by the iconic film ‘Clueless,’ has announced its first integration collaboration. This week, Alta partnered with Public School, a celebrated brand based in New York City. The goal? To start integrating styling tools directly into websites, offering a more interactive and personalized shopping experience.

    A Fusion of Fashion and Tech

    The collaboration between Alta and Public School, which was announced on February 14, 2026, marks a significant step in the fashion tech landscape. Alta, known for its innovative approach to style and fashion, is leveraging its expertise to enhance how consumers interact with brands online. Public School, with its strong presence in New York City, is the perfect partner to launch this initiative. This partnership is all about bringing styling tools directly into the digital space, making it easier for customers to visualize and experiment with different looks.

    The integration represents a shift from static online catalogs to dynamic, engaging platforms. By incorporating styling tools, websites can offer features like virtual try-ons, outfit recommendations, and personalized styling advice. This not only enhances the user experience but also provides brands with valuable data on customer preferences and behaviors.

    How It Works

    The ‘how’ behind this integration involves embedding Alta’s styling tools directly into Public School’s website. This allows users to access a range of features designed to make online shopping more intuitive and enjoyable. The tools may include interactive features that allow users to virtually try on clothing, mix and match items, and receive personalized recommendations based on their style preferences.

    The Significance of the Partnership

    This collaboration is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it showcases how technology can enhance the fashion industry, moving beyond simple e-commerce to create immersive and interactive experiences. Secondly, the partnership between Alta and Public School brings together two entities with strong brand recognition and a shared commitment to innovation. Public School, with its roots in New York City, represents a brand that values style and quality, while Alta brings its technological expertise to the table.

    The integration of styling tools into websites is not just a trend; it’s a strategic move to meet the evolving demands of consumers. As online shopping continues to grow, customers are looking for more than just a place to buy products; they seek an engaging and personalized experience. Alta and Public School are at the forefront of this transformation, setting a new standard for online fashion retail.

    Looking Ahead

    The partnership between Alta and Public School is just the beginning. The success of this initial integration could pave the way for similar collaborations with other brands. As more companies embrace these innovative tools, the online fashion landscape will likely undergo a significant transformation. This collaboration is a testament to the power of technology to transform industries and enhance consumer experiences.

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  • Alta & Public School: Styling Tools Come to Websites

    Alta & Public School: Styling Tools Come to Websites

    Alta and Public School Team Up to Bring Styling Tools to Websites

    In a move that’s set to reshape the online fashion landscape, Alta, the app inspired by the iconic film ‘Clueless,’ has announced its inaugural integration collaboration. Partnering with Public School, a renowned New York City-based brand, Alta is poised to introduce styling tools directly onto websites. This strategic alliance, unveiled this week, marks a significant stride in enhancing how consumers interact with fashion online.

    A Fusion of Fashion and Technology

    The collaboration between Alta and Public School represents a synergy of fashion expertise and technological innovation. The goal is straightforward: to make online shopping more intuitive and personalized. By integrating styling tools directly into websites, Alta aims to provide users with a more engaging and interactive shopping experience. The ‘how’ of this integration involves leveraging Alta’s app capabilities to allow users to visualize outfits, experiment with different styles, and make informed purchasing decisions directly on Public School’s online platform. This integration is designed to bridge the gap between inspiration and purchase, offering a seamless journey for fashion enthusiasts.

    The Significance of the Partnership

    This partnership is about more than just adding features; it’s about redefining the online retail experience. For Public School, collaborating with Alta offers an opportunity to enhance customer engagement and boost sales by offering interactive styling options. For Alta, the collaboration is a chance to expand its reach and demonstrate the versatility of its styling tools. The ‘why’ behind this collaboration is clear: to offer a more engaging and personalized shopping experience for customers. The ‘where’ is centered around the digital spaces of fashion-forward consumers, with a primary focus on the New York City fashion scene, where both Alta and Public School have a strong presence.

    Key Features and Benefits

    • Enhanced User Experience: Interactive styling tools will enable users to experiment with different looks.
    • Personalized Recommendations: The integration will offer tailored outfit suggestions based on user preferences.
    • Seamless Shopping: Users can purchase complete outfits directly from the integrated platform.

    Looking Ahead

    The collaboration between Alta and Public School is an example of the evolving intersection of fashion and technology. As the integration rolls out, it will be interesting to see how this partnership influences the future of online retail. The ‘Clueless’-inspired app is proving that the future of fashion is interactive, personalized, and, most importantly, user-friendly. This week’s announcement signifies the beginning of a new era in online fashion, where technology and style converge to create a more engaging and fulfilling shopping experience.

    This initiative, announced this week, is a testament to the power of innovation. By incorporating styling tools directly onto websites, Alta and Public School are not just offering a new service; they are reshaping the way consumers interact with fashion. This is a crucial step in the evolution of online retail, with Alta and Public School leading the way.

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  • India Invests $1.1B in Deep Tech & Manufacturing Startups

    India Invests $1.1B in Deep Tech & Manufacturing Startups

    India Commits $1.1B to Fuel Deep Tech and Manufacturing Startups

    In a move signaling robust support for its burgeoning startup ecosystem, India has approved a substantial $1.1 billion fund-of-funds. This initiative, announced on February 14, 2026, aims to provide crucial financial backing for the nation’s deep-tech and manufacturing startups. The strategic investment underscores India’s commitment to fostering innovation and technological advancement within its borders.

    A Strategic Investment in Innovation

    The core of this funding strategy involves channeling resources through private venture capital (VC) firms. This approach, as highlighted by the source, allows the government to leverage the expertise and networks of established VCs, ensuring a more efficient allocation of capital and a higher likelihood of success for the supported startups. The primary WHAT entities here are the “state-backed venture capital” and the “$1.1B fund-of-funds,” which are central to this initiative. The WHY is clear: to support and nurture deep-tech and manufacturing startups, which are vital for economic growth and technological independence.

    The HOW of the investment is through private VCs, a mechanism designed to optimize the impact of the funds. This method suggests a deliberate effort to blend governmental support with the agility and market acumen of private investors. The WHERE is, of course, India, indicating a focused domestic strategy. The WHEN is significant, as the announcement in 2026 reflects a continuous effort to promote long-term economic development.

    Targeting Deep Tech and Manufacturing

    The focus on deep-tech and manufacturing startups is a strategic choice. These sectors are often characterized by high-risk, high-reward ventures, requiring significant initial capital and specialized expertise. By targeting these areas, the Indian government is signaling its intention to drive innovation in critical sectors, which is pivotal for future economic resilience and competitiveness. The WHAT includes “deep-tech startups” and “manufacturing startups,” underscoring the specific areas of interest.

    Deep Tech: The Future of Innovation

    Deep-tech ventures often involve groundbreaking scientific discoveries and engineering breakthroughs. They can include areas like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and advanced materials. These startups have the potential to disrupt existing industries and create new markets, making them a crucial focus for investment.

    Manufacturing: Strengthening the Economic Base

    Supporting manufacturing startups aligns with India’s goals of becoming a global manufacturing hub. Investments in this sector can lead to job creation, increased exports, and a more robust domestic economy. This is a critical move to build economic self-reliance.

    Impact and Implications

    This substantial investment is expected to have a ripple effect throughout India’s startup ecosystem. It can attract further investment, stimulate innovation, and create new opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Furthermore, the focus on deep tech and manufacturing aligns with global trends and positions India as a key player in the innovation economy. This is a clear indicator of a positive sentiment as the government aims to support the economy.

    The government’s decision to back this fund underscores its long-term vision for India’s economic trajectory. By strategically supporting critical sectors, India is positioning itself for sustained growth and global competitiveness.

    Source: TechCrunch

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  • India Launches $1.1B Fund for Startup Growth

    India Launches $1.1B Fund for Startup Growth

    India Fuels Startup Growth With $1.1B Venture Capital Fund

    In a move signaling strong confidence in its burgeoning startup ecosystem, India is significantly increasing its financial commitment to innovation. On February 14, 2026, the Indian government approved a $1.1 billion fund-of-funds, a strategic investment designed to bolster the growth of deep-tech and manufacturing startups across the nation. This initiative underscores India’s commitment to fostering a vibrant environment for technological advancements and economic expansion.

    Investing in India’s Future: The Fund’s Strategy

    The core strategy of this state-backed venture capital initiative involves channeling investments through private venture capital (VC) firms. This approach allows the government to leverage the expertise and networks of established VC players, ensuring that funds are allocated efficiently and effectively. The focus areas, deep-tech and manufacturing, are particularly crucial for India’s long-term economic goals. Deep-tech startups often drive groundbreaking innovations, while advancements in manufacturing can enhance the country’s competitiveness on a global scale. The government’s decision reflects a forward-thinking approach, recognizing the potential of these sectors to create jobs, stimulate economic activity, and drive technological progress.

    By investing through private VCs, India aims to provide crucial financial support and mentorship to emerging startups. This method not only provides capital but also offers access to valuable industry insights and networks that can significantly increase the chances of success for these young companies. The fund-of-funds model allows for diversification of investments across a range of promising startups, reducing the risk while maximizing the potential for significant returns and impact.

    Deep Tech and Manufacturing: The Engines of Growth

    The emphasis on deep-tech and manufacturing startups highlights India’s strategic priorities. Deep-tech companies are at the forefront of innovation, developing solutions in areas such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and advanced materials. These technologies have the potential to transform industries and create new economic opportunities. Similarly, investments in manufacturing are critical for strengthening India’s industrial base and enhancing its capabilities in producing high-value goods.

    This initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of ‘Make in India’ and ‘Digital India,’ which aim to promote domestic manufacturing and technological adoption. By supporting startups in these sectors, India is not only investing in its economic future but also positioning itself as a leader in global innovation. This strategic focus ensures that the country remains competitive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

    Economic Impact and Future Prospects

    The $1.1 billion fund is expected to have a significant positive impact on India’s economy. It will fuel job creation, attract further investment, and stimulate innovation across various sectors. The infusion of capital will enable startups to scale their operations, develop new products, and expand their reach, both domestically and internationally. This, in turn, will contribute to overall economic growth and improve India’s global competitiveness.

    The government’s commitment to supporting startups through venture capital is a clear signal of its confidence in the country’s potential. This investment is likely to encourage further private sector participation, creating a virtuous cycle of innovation and growth. As India continues to invest in its startup ecosystem, it is poised to become a global hub for technological innovation and economic prosperity. This proactive approach will help India realize its ambitious goals and establish itself as a leader in the global economy.

    Source: TechCrunch

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  • OpenAI & xAI: Talent Exodus & the Future of AI

    OpenAI & xAI: Talent Exodus & the Future of AI

    The news has been trickling out, a slow drip at first, then a steady stream: key departures at OpenAI and xAI. It feels like a pivotal moment, watching the pieces shift in the high-stakes game of AI dominance. The past few weeks have seen a noticeable exodus of talent, a fact that’s got analysts and investors alike taking a closer look.

    Reports indicate that about half of xAI’s founding team has left, some voluntarily, others through what’s been delicately termed “restructuring.” OpenAI hasn’t been immune either, with the disbanding of its mission alignment team, and the firing of a policy exec adding to the unease. The situation is complex, but the implications are clear: the AI landscape is in flux.

    One of the core issues, as pointed out by sources close to the matter, is the changing landscape of incentives. The initial allure of these companies, the promise of groundbreaking innovation, is now competing with concerns about the long-term impact of AI, and of course, the ever-present question of financial stability. As per reports, the internal pressures are mounting. The market is watching, and it’s a nervous audience.

    And it’s not just about the big names. The ripple effect is already being felt. As talent departs, projects stall, and the race to stay ahead intensifies. The air feels thick with uncertainty, the kind of tension you can almost taste. Watching it unfold feels like observing the cooling down of a trading floor after a major sell-off, analysts tapping through spreadsheets, the muted chatter on a conference call.

    As of this week, several sources suggest that the departures are tied to a combination of factors. Some are seeking new opportunities, while others are reportedly dissatisfied with the strategic direction of the companies. The “adult mode” feature, for instance, has sparked controversy, raising ethical questions and potentially alienating key employees. The details are still emerging, but the picture is becoming clearer: the culture is shifting, and some aren’t happy.

    As one expert from the Brookings Institution recently stated, the current situation underscores the importance of ethical considerations in AI development. “The talent drain is a symptom, not the disease,” as they put it, implying the core issues run deeper than just individual departures. Or maybe I’m misreading it.

    The departures also raise questions about the long-term viability of the companies. Can OpenAI and xAI maintain their competitive edge without the key individuals who helped build their foundations? The answer, as always, is far from simple. It’s a question that’s keeping a lot of people awake at night, because the implications are huge.

    The market’s reaction has been cautious, with investors hesitant to commit further funds until a clearer picture emerges. The numbers, as of last week, reflect this uncertainty. The situation is fluid, and the future of AI hangs in the balance.

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  • OpenAI & xAI Talent Exodus: What’s Driving Departures?

    OpenAI & xAI Talent Exodus: What’s Driving Departures?

    The hum of servers filled the air, a constant reminder of the computational power at play. It was late, and the team at xAI was still huddled around screens, but the mood was off. Half of the founding team had departed in recent weeks. Some left willingly, others through restructuring, as reported by TechCrunch.

    The exodus isn’t limited to xAI. OpenAI is facing its own internal turmoil. The mission alignment team, once seen as a key component, was disbanded. A policy executive was let go after opposing the “adult mode” feature. The departures are a clear signal: something is shifting in the AI world.

    “It’s a talent war,” said Dr. Emily Carter, a senior analyst at the Lilly School, during a recent briefing. “The demand for skilled AI engineers and researchers far outweighs the supply, and these companies are feeling the pressure.” She noted that while specific numbers are hard to come by, the attrition rate at both OpenAI and xAI seems to be significantly higher than the industry average of 10-12%.

    The core of the issue? Perhaps it’s a conflict between the idealistic vision of AI’s potential and the realities of building and deploying it. The pressure to generate revenue, the ethical dilemmas of AI deployment, and the internal power struggles all play a part.

    One engineer, speaking on condition of anonymity, mentioned frustrations with the pace of development and the direction of certain projects. The focus, at times, seemed to have shifted from pure research to commercial applications. Or maybe that’s how the supply shock reads from here.

    The situation also highlights the broader challenges facing the AI industry. The competition for talent is fierce, and the stakes are high. Companies are pouring billions into research and development, but they need the best people to make it happen. The constraints of the supply chain, export controls, and manufacturing limits (SMIC versus TSMC) are all factors that are becoming apparent at this level.

    The departures at OpenAI and xAI are more than just a blip on the radar. They are a sign of the growing pains in a rapidly evolving industry. The next few months will reveal how these companies adapt, and whether they can retain the talent needed to stay at the forefront of AI innovation.

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