CloudTalk

Author: Agentic NewsRoom

  • Humans& Raises $480M for Human-Centric AI

    Humans& Raises $480M for Human-Centric AI

    Humans& Raises $480M to Build Human-Centric AI

    In a move that signals a significant shift in the AI landscape, Humans&, a startup with a compelling vision, has announced a substantial $480 million seed round. The company, founded by a team of industry veterans from Anthropic, xAI, and Google, is setting out to redefine the role of AI, focusing on how it can empower individuals rather than simply automating tasks. This approach is reflected in their core philosophy: AI should augment human capabilities, not replace them.

    A New Approach to Artificial Intelligence

    The core tenet of Humans& is a human-centric approach to AI development. This means that the technology will be designed with a focus on enhancing human potential, creativity, and decision-making. The funding will be used to further develop this vision and bring it to fruition. This is a crucial distinction from the prevailing narrative that often focuses solely on automation and efficiency.

    The impressive seed round, which values the company at $4.48 billion, speaks volumes about the confidence investors have in this approach. It also highlights the growing recognition of the need for AI that aligns with human values and goals. The fact that the founding team hails from leading AI companies such as Anthropic, xAI, and Google adds significant weight to the project, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the table.

    Key Players and Their Vision

    While specific details about Humans&’s products and services remain limited, the company’s mission is clear: to build AI that serves humanity. The founders, with their combined experience, are well-positioned to achieve this goal. Their backgrounds suggest a deep understanding of the technical challenges and ethical considerations involved in AI development. The founders’ past experience at Anthropic, xAI, and Google underscores their commitment to innovation and their understanding of the current AI landscape.

    The Significance of the Seed Round

    The $480 million seed round is a significant investment, indicating strong investor confidence in Humans&’s potential. Seed rounds typically fund early-stage development, allowing startups to build their core technology, hire talent, and begin establishing their market presence. This substantial funding will enable Humans& to accelerate its research and development efforts, expand its team, and potentially launch its first products or services. The large valuation suggests that investors believe in the long-term viability and disruptive potential of a human-centric AI approach.

    The funding round also signals a broader trend in the tech industry. There’s a growing recognition that AI should be developed responsibly, considering its impact on society and individual well-being. Humans& is positioned to be a leader in this movement, demonstrating that ethical considerations and commercial success can go hand in hand. The company’s success could pave the way for other startups and established companies to adopt similar human-centric approaches.

    Looking Ahead

    The future of AI is being actively shaped by companies like Humans&. As the company moves forward, it will be interesting to see how its human-centric vision translates into tangible products and services. The startup’s progress will undoubtedly be closely watched by investors, industry analysts, and the broader public, all eager to see how AI can be harnessed to empower people and create a more positive future.

    The company’s focus on human empowerment, combined with the expertise of its founding team and the backing of significant funding, positions Humans& as a key player in the evolving AI landscape. Their success could redefine the relationship between humans and artificial intelligence.

  • NSE Announcements: Compliance & Investor Updates

    The National Stock Exchange (NSE) has recently released several announcements impacting publicly listed companies, focusing on compliance and investor relations. These updates provide insights into the ongoing efforts of companies to adhere to regulatory requirements and maintain transparent communication with investors.

    Compliance Certificates:

    Inox Green Energy Services Limited has submitted a certificate under the SEBI (Depositories and Participants) Regulations, 2018. This certificate, applicable for the quarter ending December 31, 2025, confirms the company’s adherence to the specified regulatory standards. Similarly, Eros International Media Limited has also provided a certificate under the same regulations.

    Investor Relations Updates:

    AU Small Finance Bank Limited and CREDITACCESS GRAMEEN LIMITED have informed the Exchange about links to recordings of Analysts/Institutional Investor Meet/Con. Call Updates. These updates offer investors and analysts access to discussions and presentations, enhancing transparency and providing valuable insights into the companies’ performance and strategies.

    Strategic Implications:

    These announcements underscore the importance of regulatory compliance and proactive investor communication in the current market environment. By providing compliance certificates and facilitating access to investor meetings, companies demonstrate their commitment to transparency and accountability, which can positively impact investor confidence and market perception. The NSE’s role in disseminating these announcements ensures that relevant information is readily available to all stakeholders, promoting fair and informed trading practices.

    Conclusion:

    The recent announcements from the NSE highlight the ongoing efforts of listed companies to meet regulatory requirements and maintain open communication with investors. These updates, including compliance certificates and investor meeting recordings, are crucial for fostering trust and transparency in the stock market.

  • Grubhub Acquires Claim: Restaurant Loyalty Shakeup

    Grubhub Acquires Claim: Restaurant Loyalty Shakeup

    The news hit the wires on January 20, 2026, or so the reports indicated. Grubhub’s parent company, the folks over at Just Eat Takeaway.com, had made a move. They’d acquired Claim, a startup focused on restaurant rewards programs. The deal, still unfolding in terms of its full impact, is designed to give restaurants on the Grubhub platform access to Claim’s customer acquisition and retention tools. And, of course, allow Grubhub diners to earn rewards.

    It’s a strategic play, no doubt about it. The online food delivery sector is a battlefield, and every advantage matters. The acquisition is an attempt, to strengthen Grubhub’s position, to keep diners engaged, and to offer restaurants a more robust suite of services. The terms of the deal weren’t immediately disclosed, but market analysts were already crunching numbers, trying to estimate the long-term implications.

    The move comes at a time of shifting consumer behavior. The pandemic changed everything, of course, and the habits formed then still linger. People are still ordering in. But they’re also, more than ever, looking for value. It’s not just about convenience anymore. It’s about loyalty, about feeling appreciated. Or maybe I’m misreading it.

    A source close to the deal, speaking on condition of anonymity, suggested that the acquisition was driven, in part, by a desire to compete more effectively with DoorDash and Uber Eats, the other major players in the space. “It’s a land grab,” this person said, “a play for market share, pure and simple.”

    The implications are broad. According to a report from the National Restaurant Association, the restaurant industry is expected to generate $1.2 trillion in sales in 2026. A significant chunk of that will flow through online platforms. And the companies that can best capture and retain those customers will be the ones that thrive. It’s about more than just food delivery.

    An analyst from the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center noted that such acquisitions often trigger a ripple effect. “Changes in the competitive landscape can lead to adjustments in pricing, marketing strategies, and even the types of restaurants that thrive,” she explained. “It’s a dynamic ecosystem.”

    The deal also presents some interesting questions about data privacy and customer behavior. Claim has built its business on understanding how people interact with restaurant loyalty programs. The integration of that data with Grubhub’s existing customer information could create a powerful – and potentially sensitive – dataset. That’s a lot of information.

    Still, the market reacted positively, at least initially. Shares of Just Eat Takeaway.com saw a modest uptick following the announcement. Investors, it seems, are betting on the company’s ability to navigate the complexities of the food delivery market and to leverage the potential of Claim’s technology. The restaurant industry is always evolving.

    In the end, it’s a story about adaptation, about the constant push and pull of the market. And the ever-present need to stay ahead of the curve.

  • Emergent Valuation Triples to $300M with $70M Funding

    Emergent Valuation Triples to $300M with $70M Funding

    Emergent’s Valuation Triples to $300M with $70M Funding Round

    In a significant boost for the Indian tech ecosystem, Emergent, a vibe-coding startup, has announced a $70 million fundraise, which has tripled its valuation to an impressive $300 million. This latest investment round underscores the rapid growth and potential of the company within the competitive startup landscape. The funding round included investments from SoftBank and Khosla Ventures, further solidifying Emergent’s position and prospects.

    This news comes as Emergent reports a substantial increase in its Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR), which has scaled to $50 million. The company is now setting its sights on a target of $100 million in ARR by April 2026. This ambitious goal reflects Emergent’s confidence in its business model and its ability to capture a larger share of the market. The funding will likely be used to fuel this expansion, enabling the company to invest in product development, expand its team, and broaden its market reach.

    Key Players and Investment Details

    The recent funding round saw participation from prominent investors, including SoftBank and Khosla Ventures. These firms have a history of backing successful tech ventures, and their investment in Emergent is a strong vote of confidence in the startup’s vision and execution. The involvement of SoftBank, a major player in the global investment arena, adds significant weight to Emergent’s future prospects.

    The $70 million fundraise is a critical step in Emergent’s journey. It not only provides the necessary capital for growth but also validates the company’s achievements to date. The increase in valuation to $300 million is a clear indicator of the market’s positive assessment of Emergent’s performance and future potential.

    Driving Factors and Future Goals

    Emergent’s success can be attributed to several factors, including its innovative approach to coding and its ability to scale its ARR. The company’s goal of reaching $100 million in ARR by April 2026 is ambitious, but given its current trajectory, it appears to be within reach. This growth will likely involve strategic investments in key areas such as product development, sales, and marketing.

    The company’s focus on vibe-coding suggests an emphasis on user experience, design, and overall product appeal, which may be a key differentiator in the market. The investment from SoftBank and Khosla Ventures provides not only financial backing but also access to valuable networks and industry expertise.

    The Broader Impact

    Emergent’s success story is a positive development for the Indian startup ecosystem. It demonstrates the potential for homegrown tech companies to attract significant investment and achieve rapid growth. The growth of Emergent also underscores the increasing importance of coding and technology in the global economy.

    The company’s achievements are a testament to the talent and innovation emerging from India’s tech sector. As Emergent continues to scale and innovate, it is poised to become a significant player in the global tech landscape.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Emergent Valuation Soars to $300M with $70M Funding

    Emergent Valuation Soars to $300M with $70M Funding

    Emergent’s Valuation Triples to $300M with $70M Funding Round

    In a significant boost for the Indian tech ecosystem, the vibe-coding startup Emergent has secured a $70 million fundraise, catapulting its valuation to an impressive $300 million. This marks a substantial increase, reflecting the company’s rapid growth and the confidence of its investors. The funding round, backed by prominent investors like SoftBank and Khosla Ventures, underscores the increasing global interest in India’s burgeoning startup scene.

    Emergent’s success story is rooted in its ability to scale its Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR). The company currently boasts an ARR of $50 million. With the new capital infusion, Emergent is setting its sights high, aiming to double its ARR to $100 million by April 2026. This ambitious goal demonstrates the company’s commitment to sustained expansion and market leadership. The investment will likely fuel further product development, market penetration, and talent acquisition.

    Key Players and Their Roles

    The recent funding round highlights the strategic involvement of key players. Emergent, the recipient of the funding, is at the forefront, driving innovation in the coding sector. The investment from SoftBank and Khosla Ventures showcases their belief in Emergent’s vision and potential. These investors are known for their strategic investments in high-growth companies, providing not only capital but also valuable industry expertise and networks. This collaborative effort is poised to accelerate Emergent’s trajectory in the competitive tech landscape.

    Why the Investment Matters

    The $70 million fundraise is not just a financial transaction; it’s a testament to Emergent’s innovative approach and market position. The investment allows Emergent to continue its growth trajectory, potentially expanding its services and reaching new markets. The increased valuation also reflects investor confidence and the overall positive sentiment towards the Indian startup ecosystem. Emergent’s ability to attract such significant funding demonstrates its strong value proposition and its potential for substantial returns.

    Looking Ahead

    The future looks bright for Emergent as it aims to double its ARR by April 2026. This aggressive growth target, coupled with the backing of prominent investors, positions the company for continued success. The investment will enable Emergent to invest in its technology, expand its team, and potentially explore new strategic partnerships. As Emergent continues to innovate and grow, it is poised to become a significant player in the global tech market, further solidifying India’s reputation as a hub for technological advancement.

  • Everstone Creates $100M+ Digital Experience Powerhouse

    Everstone Creates $100M+ Digital Experience Powerhouse

    Everstone Forges $100M+ Digital Experience Powerhouse with Wingify & AB Tasty

    In a move set to reshape the digital landscape, Everstone is combining forces with Wingify and AB Tasty to create a formidable digital experience optimization platform. This strategic merger, announced in early 2026, is poised to generate over $100 million in annual revenue and serve more than 4,000 customers worldwide. The new platform aims to provide businesses with enhanced tools to refine and optimize their online presence, ultimately driving better user engagement and conversion rates.

    A Strategic Merger for Digital Growth

    The combination of Wingify and AB Tasty represents a significant step in the evolution of digital experience optimization. Everstone, the driving force behind this merger, recognizes the growing importance of a seamless and optimized digital presence for businesses of all sizes. By bringing these two entities together, the new platform will offer a comprehensive suite of tools designed to enhance user experiences across various digital touchpoints. This includes A/B testing, personalization, and user behavior analytics, among other features.

    The merger is strategically designed to capitalize on the increasing demand for sophisticated digital optimization solutions. As businesses become more reliant on their online presence, the need for tools that can improve user engagement and drive conversions has never been greater. This initiative, spearheaded by Everstone, allows the combined entity to serve its global customer base more effectively, ensuring they have the resources and expertise needed to thrive in a competitive digital environment.

    Serving a Global Clientele

    The merged entity’s ability to serve more than 4,000 customers globally is a testament to the strength and appeal of its combined offerings. This wide reach underscores the platform’s potential to become a leading player in the digital experience optimization market. The platform’s global presence allows it to cater to diverse businesses, each with unique needs and challenges. By providing localized support and tailored solutions, the platform aims to empower businesses worldwide to maximize their digital potential.

    Wingify and AB Tasty, both established names in the industry, bring a wealth of expertise and innovation to the table. Their combined knowledge and resources will enable the platform to offer cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of its global customer base. The merger is expected to streamline operations, enhance product development, and improve customer service, leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.

    Projected Financial Impact

    The projection of over $100 million in annual revenue highlights the financial potential of this merger. This figure reflects the significant market opportunity and the anticipated growth of the platform. The combined resources of Wingify and AB Tasty, under the umbrella of Everstone, are expected to drive innovation and expand the platform’s market share. This financial success will likely be reinvested to further enhance the platform’s capabilities and expand its global reach.

    Looking Ahead

    The merger of Wingify and AB Tasty, orchestrated by Everstone, marks a pivotal moment in the digital experience optimization space. By combining their strengths, these entities are well-positioned to offer a comprehensive and innovative platform that meets the evolving needs of businesses worldwide. This strategic move is a clear indication of the growing importance of digital experience optimization in today’s business landscape. With a focus on serving more customers, generating significant revenue, and driving innovation, the future of this combined platform looks promising.

    The platform’s success will be measured not only by its financial performance but also by its ability to help businesses achieve their digital goals. The commitment to providing exceptional user experiences, coupled with data-driven insights, positions the platform as a valuable partner for businesses looking to thrive in the digital age. This merger sets the stage for continued innovation and growth in the years to come, solidifying its place as a leader in the digital experience optimization market.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Everstone Creates $100M+ Digital Experience Powerhouse

    Everstone Creates $100M+ Digital Experience Powerhouse

    Everstone’s $100M+ Digital Experience Powerhouse: Wingify and AB Tasty Unite

    In a move set to reshape the digital landscape, Everstone is bringing together Wingify and AB Tasty, creating a formidable digital experience optimization platform. This strategic merger, announced in 2026, is poised to generate over $100 million in annual revenue, as reported by TechCrunch. The union aims to serve a global clientele exceeding 4,000 customers.

    A Strategic Merger for a Competitive Edge

    The decision by Everstone to combine Wingify and AB Tasty underscores a strategic vision to enhance their market position. The primary why behind this move is to expand their customer base and boost revenue. By integrating their strengths, the newly formed entity is positioned to provide comprehensive solutions for optimizing digital experiences. This, in turn, allows businesses to refine user engagement, conversion rates, and overall customer satisfaction.

    How does this work? By combining the resources and expertise of Wingify and AB Tasty, the platform offers a more robust suite of tools. This empowers businesses to conduct A/B testing, personalization, and user behavior analytics more effectively. The synergy allows for a more holistic approach to digital optimization, catering to the evolving needs of businesses worldwide.

    The Players: Wingify, AB Tasty, and Everstone

    The key players in this merger are Wingify and AB Tasty, both established names in the digital experience optimization space. Everstone, the investment firm, orchestrates the merger, recognizing the potential for growth. The what of the merger is the creation of a powerful platform, designed to assist businesses in enhancing their online presence and user engagement.

    Where does this play out? The platform is slated to serve customers globally, reflecting the widespread need for digital optimization solutions across diverse markets. The when of the announcement was 2026, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of digital experience platforms.

    Market Implications and Future Prospects

    This merger has significant implications for the digital experience market. It signifies a growing trend towards integrated platforms. This trend allows businesses to streamline their optimization efforts and improve their return on investment. The combined resources of Wingify and AB Tasty are likely to drive innovation. This will lead to the development of new features and capabilities, further enhancing the platform’s value proposition.

    The future looks promising for this merged entity. With a strong financial foundation and a commitment to innovation, the platform is well-positioned to capture a larger share of the market. The focus on customer satisfaction and data-driven optimization strategies will likely resonate with businesses seeking to gain a competitive edge in the digital world. The success of this merger will serve as a case study for future strategic alliances in the tech industry.

    Conclusion

    The merger of Wingify and AB Tasty, orchestrated by Everstone, represents a pivotal moment in the digital experience optimization landscape. The platform’s potential to generate substantial revenue and serve a vast global customer base underscores the strategic foresight of this union. As the digital realm continues to evolve, this integrated platform is poised to be a key player. This will help businesses thrive in an increasingly competitive environment.

  • AWS Weekly Roundup: Kiro CLI, EC2 X8i, & European Sovereign Cloud

    AWS Weekly Roundup: Kiro CLI, EC2 X8i, & European Sovereign Cloud

    The hum of the servers was a constant presence, a low thrum that vibrated through the floor of the AWS data center in Frankfurt. It was late January 2026, and the team was back from the holidays, diving headfirst into the new year’s updates. The AWS News Blog had just released its weekly roundup, and the buzz was immediate.

    First up, the Kiro CLI, the command-line interface, had some shiny new features. Apparently, it now supports a wider range of instance types, which, according to a blog post, streamlined deployment for the EC2 X8i instances. These instances, launched just a few months prior, were already making waves, promising significant performance gains for compute-intensive workloads.

    Then, the AWS European Sovereign Cloud. This was a big one. The initiative, designed to provide cloud services within the EU with enhanced data residency and control, was a direct response to increasing regulatory pressures. As per reports, the first phase of this rollout, based in Germany, had already seen a considerable uptake from government agencies and financial institutions. It seemed like a smart move.

    Meanwhile, the EC2 X8i instances themselves were attracting a lot of attention. They boasted improved networking and storage capabilities. An analyst from Gartner, in a recent report, predicted a 20% increase in adoption rates for these instances throughout 2026, driven by demand from AI and machine learning applications. They were built with Intel’s latest Xeon processors, which, for once, seemed to be keeping pace with the demands of the market.

    The team lead, Sarah Chen, leaned back in her chair, a slight frown creasing her brow. “Still waiting on those thermal tests from the Shanghai fab,” she muttered, more to herself than anyone else. The supply chain was… well, it was what it was. US export controls, and the ongoing chip wars, meant that every deployment was a delicate dance.

    The AWS Weekly Roundup also mentioned other updates, including enhancements to the Amazon S3 service and new features for the AWS Lambda compute service. It was, as usual, a flurry of activity, reflecting the relentless pace of innovation in the cloud computing space. It’s kind of overwhelming.

    By evening, the data center was still humming, the team was still working, and the cloud, as always, was expanding. The updates kept coming, and the world kept changing. The European Sovereign Cloud and the EC2 X8i instances, in a way, represented both the promise and the challenges of the future: innovation, regulation, and the ever-present shadow of the global supply chain.

  • AWS Weekly Roundup: Kiro CLI, European Cloud, & EC2 X8i

    AWS Weekly Roundup: Kiro CLI, European Cloud, & EC2 X8i

    The hum of the servers was a constant companion in the AWS data center, a low thrum that vibrated through the floor. It was January 19, 2026, and the team was back in action after a well-deserved break. The air crackled with the usual energy of a new year, but also with the anticipation of the updates coming from AWS.

    First on the list was the Kiro CLI. The latest features were rolling out, and engineers were already diving into the code, testing the new functionalities. It seemed like the tool was becoming even more crucial for managing cloud resources. A senior developer, Sarah Chen, mentioned, “The Kiro CLI is becoming indispensable for our daily operations. It streamlines everything.”

    Meanwhile, the AWS European Sovereign Cloud was another major topic. The initiative, designed to provide enhanced data residency and control for European customers, was gaining traction. It was a response to the growing demand for data sovereignty, a trend that’s reshaping the cloud landscape. As per reports, the project was expected to generate a 20% increase in European customer adoption by Q2 2026.

    The EC2 X8i instances also sparked discussion. These new instances promised improved performance for demanding workloads. The team was particularly interested in the enhanced memory capabilities, which could be a game-changer for certain applications. They were meticulously reviewing the thermal tests, a critical step before full deployment.

    Earlier today, an analyst from Gartner, Maria Rodriguez, noted, “AWS continues to innovate, but the market is becoming more competitive. The European Sovereign Cloud is a smart move, addressing a critical need.”

    By evening, the team was still at it, poring over the details, the keyboard clicks a steady rhythm in the room. The updates were a lot to take in, but it was all part of the job.

    And then there was the ongoing discussion about supply chains, the constraints, the export rules. It was a reality of the tech world, a constant factor in planning and execution. The team knew it well.

    It’s all connected, in a way. The hardware, the software, the policy, the market. It was a complex web, and AWS was right in the middle.

  • AI Funding Boom: 55 US Startups Raise $100M+ in 2025

    AI Funding Boom: 55 US Startups Raise $100M+ in 2025

    AI Funding Surge: 55 US Startups Raised $100M+ in 2025

    The artificial intelligence (AI) industry continues its rapid expansion, and 2025 proved to be another pivotal year. A recent analysis reveals that 55 US AI startups successfully raised $100 million or more, highlighting the robust investment and innovation within the sector. This article delves into the financial trends and performance of the AI industry, offering a comprehensive overview of the key players and funding dynamics.

    The State of AI Funding in 2025

    Last year marked a significant period for AI startups in the U.S., with significant funding rounds. The ability of these companies to secure substantial capital injections underscores the growing confidence in AI technologies and their potential to transform various industries. This influx of capital allows these startups to accelerate their research, development, and market expansion efforts. The trend signals a maturing market, where investors are increasingly willing to place bets on high-potential AI ventures.

    The AI industry’s performance in 2025 reflects the broader economic trends and the increasing integration of AI into diverse sectors. The fundraising activities of AI startups provide a window into the areas attracting the most investment and innovation. The AI industry continues to expand into numerous sectors, from healthcare and finance to manufacturing and transportation. This diversification drives innovation and attracts investment, shaping the future of the technology landscape.

    Key Trends and Insights

    Several key trends emerged from the analysis of AI startup funding in 2025. One notable observation is the concentration of investment in specific areas, such as natural language processing, computer vision, and machine learning. These areas, which are critical to the advancement of AI technologies, attracted substantial capital. Furthermore, the data suggests a shift towards more mature startups, with larger funding rounds indicating increased investor confidence in established players.

    Another trend is the geographic distribution of funding. While the U.S. remains a dominant hub for AI innovation, there is also a growing presence of international startups and investors, indicating a globalized investment landscape. The how these AI startups obtained funding provides insight into the strategies they employed to attract investors. These include demonstrating clear market potential, building strong leadership teams, and showcasing innovative technologies that address specific industry needs.

    Looking Ahead

    The AI industry is poised for continued growth and transformation. With the increased fundraising and the influx of capital into the sector, AI startups are well-positioned to drive future advancements. The trends observed in 2025 will likely shape the trajectory of the AI market in the coming years. The industry’s ability to attract and deploy capital will be crucial for accelerating innovation and expanding the adoption of AI technologies across various sectors. As the AI landscape continues to evolve, staying informed about the fundraising trends and industry dynamics will be important for investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers.

    The analysis of US AI startups and their funding rounds provides a valuable snapshot of the AI industry’s current state. By examining the who, what, where, when, how, and why of these fundraising activities, we gain a deeper understanding of the market dynamics and the direction of innovation. The future of AI is bright, driven by the ongoing investment and the relentless pursuit of technological breakthroughs.