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TechCrunch: The FinTech Fixations

In a shocking development, Brex’s compliance head has ditched the corporate card empire to join Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) as a partner. Yeah, that’s right, folks – an entire division of Brex was sold out to a venture firm.

But don’t worry, Klarna has got your back – they’re selling off their payments unit, because, you know, transparency is overrated. And in more news, PayPal Ventures is pouring in $20 million into Gynger, which is essentially a platform that lets start-ups pay for tech purchases "flexibly". Flexibly? Yeah, that means without actually paying for it.

And oh, by the way, Finbourne, a company that helps financial companies become more AI-savvy, raised a whopping $70 million. Because who needs human analysts when you’ve got algorithms?

Meanwhile, Cadana, a company that helps global companies pay their employees, has emerged from stealth mode with $7.4 million in funding. And Hero, a Paris-based startup, wants to "save the day" for small companies facing working capital crunches. How about saving them from reckless spending habits instead?

But seriously, what’s going on with Materia, the stealthy AI-backed accounting firm? They’re making promises to revolutionize accounting, but won’t even tell us what they actually do. Sounds like a bunch of vaporware to me.

And finally, Elon Musk’s X revenue has officially taken a nosedive, along with the hopes and dreams of millions of wannabe tech unicorns.

Stay tuned for more exclusive news, folks!

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The Streaming Apocalypse: Paramount+ Joins the Ranks of Greedy Giants

In a move that’s sure to enrage the already-irate streaming masses, Paramount+ has announced a price hike that’s set to further drain the wallets of its loyal (and not-so-loyal) subscribers. Because, let’s be real, who doesn’t love the feeling of being nickel-and-dimed to death by corporate behemoths?

According to reports, the streaming service will be jacking up the prices of all its plans by a whopping $1 or $2 per month. Yes, you read that right – a whole extra buck or two to watch reruns of "Yellowstone" and "Knuckles" (whatever that is). It’s a small price to pay for the privilege of being part of the Paramount+ family, or so they’d have you believe.

But wait, there’s more! Existing subscribers to Paramount+ Essential will be getting a sweet deal – they won’t see any price change at all! Just think of it as a nice little bonus for being part of the "early adopter" crowd. Meanwhile, new subscribers will be greeted with a lovely surprise: a $2 price increase for the same exact service.

And let’s not forget about the "Paramount+ with commercials" plan, which is still somehow a thing. Apparently, some poor souls are still grandfathered into this plan, and they’ll be paying an extra buck per month to watch ads. Talk about a sweet deal!

This latest move is just the latest in a long line of price hikes from streaming services, including Max and Spotify. It’s enough to make you wonder if cutting the cord is even worth it anymore. I mean, who needs the hassle of switching services and dealing with buffering when you can just pay more and more and more?

So, what’s the takeaway from all this? That streaming services are just a bunch of greedy, soulless corporations who don’t care about their customers? That’s a pretty strong inference, if you ask me. But hey, at least we’ll always have our trusty ol’ DVDs and VHS tapes to fall back on…

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The Revival of the Beats Pill: A Threat to the Audiophile World?

The once-dormant Beats Pill has awoken from its slumber, and it’s bringing with it a payload of controversy. Apple’s attempt to revive the brand’s iconic portable speaker has sparked a heated debate among audiophiles, with some claiming that the new Pill is a blatant disregard for the art of sound quality. But is it really that bad?

The new Beats Pill boasts a slew of impressive features, including native support for both Android and iOS, USB-C audio capabilities, and even speakerphone functionality. But at its core, it’s still a mono speaker, which has left many questioning the value proposition.

The Sound of Heresy

The Pill’s audio quality has been met with a mixed reaction. While some have praised its clarity and ability to crank up the volume, others have criticized its lack of stereo imaging and limited frequency response. But what’s most disturbing is the Pill’s potential to undermine the very fabric of our musical experience.

Imagine, if you will, a world where music is no longer a nuanced, immersive experience, but rather a shallow, monoaural exercise in sonic blandness. It’s a prospect that sends shivers down the spines of audiophiles everywhere.

The Devil’s in the Details

But before we throw the Pill under the bus, let’s consider the context. This is, after all, a portable speaker designed for casual, non-critical listening. And in that regard, the Pill may actually excel. Its battery life has doubled, and it’s designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures.

The Verdict: A Faustian Bargain?

So, is the new Beats Pill a threat to the audiophile world, or is it simply a decent, if unremarkable, portable speaker? The answer lies in the details. If you’re willing to compromise on sound quality for the sake of convenience and durability, then the Pill may be worth considering.

But for those who value their ears and their sanity, it may be wise to steer clear of this demonic device. After all, as the saying goes, "you can’t put a price on sound quality"… but in this case, the Pill’s affordability may just be its most seductive feature.

In Conclusion…

The new Beats Pill is a polarizing product that has sparked a heated debate among audiophiles. While it may not be the most sonically impressive speaker on the market, it’s certainly a decent option for casual listeners. But for those who value their ears and their sanity, it may be wise to avoid this "portable abomination".

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The Elitist Job Search: How "AI-Native" Startups Are Rigging the System for Immigrant Professionals

The American dream of finding a decent job is not for everyone, especially if you’re an immigrant who’s desperate to make a living in the land of opportunities. The H-1B program is a sham, with only a handful of lucky foreigners getting chosen every year to work in the US. It’s like a game of chance, with no guarantee of success. And once you lose your job, you have just 60 days to find another one, or you’re forced to leave the country. It’s a high-pressure, cutthroat game, and not everyone can afford to lose.

That’s where "AI-Native" startups like Jobright come in. These companies promise to revolutionize the job search process, making it easier for immigrant professionals to find the perfect job. But is this really the solution we need?

Jobright’s co-founder Eric Cheng is no stranger to the struggles of immigrant professionals. He’s a self-proclaimed expert on the H-1B visa system, and has even built a proprietary filter to help job seekers like himself get hired. His company’s algorithm is designed to predict which jobs are most likely to sponsor visas, and connects users with companies that have a history of sponsoring H-1B workers. But is this just a recipe for favoritism?

While Jobright touts itself as a game-changer, the startup’s user base is comprised mainly of immigrants from India and China, who have been left behind by the US’s outdated immigration system. It’s as if Jobright is perpetuating the status quo, giving preference to certain groups over others.

Furthermore, Jobright’s reliance on large language models raises serious questions about transparency and bias. Can these algorithms really capture the complexity of human emotions and experiences, or are they just regurgitating biased data? And what about job seekers who don’t fit into Jobright’s predetermined categories? Are they doomed to struggle in the cutthroat job market, with no way out?

When asked if he’s worried about LinkedIn developing similar AI features to replace Jobright, Cheng snidely responded that LinkedIn is too stuck in its ad-based business model to fully embrace AI. But isn’t Jobright just trying to manipulate the system to its own advantage? Has the startup considered the implications of its AI-driven job matching system on the larger job market? Or is it just focused on reaping the benefits for itself?

Ultimately, the question is, can AI truly be the solution to the job search struggles faced by immigrant professionals, or is it just a band-aid fix that perpetuates the status quo? Only time will tell.

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WARNING: The following content is provocative and controversial. Reader discretion is advised.

Are you ready to watch the most anticipated match of Euro 2024 for free? Well, you’re in luck because we’ve got the scoop on how to stream Denmark vs. Serbia without breaking the bank. But before we dive in, let’s get one thing straight: the European Championships are a joke. I mean, who needs a tournament that’s only second to the World Cup? It’s like the NFL trying to be the NBA.

But, I digress. If you’re still excited about watching Denmark vs. Serbia, then you’re in the right place. The match is set to kick off on June 25 at 3 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. BST, and we’ve got the inside scoop on how to watch it for free.

The catch? You’ll need to use a VPN to bypass ITVX’s geo-restrictions. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. ExpressVPN is the best VPN for streaming live sport on ITVX, and we’ve got a special deal for you. For a limited time, you can get a one-year subscription to ExpressVPN for just $99.95, which includes an extra three months for free, a year of unlimited data cloud backup, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

But, let’s get back to the match. Denmark and Serbia are both looking to prove themselves on the international stage, and this game is crucial for both teams. Denmark was held to a disappointing draw against Slovenia in their opening game, while Serbia is still looking to make a statement.

So, how can you watch Denmark vs. Serbia for free? It’s simple. Just follow these steps:

1. Subscribe to ExpressVPN
2. Download the app to your device of choice
3. Connect to a server in the UK
4. Visit ITVX
5. Stream Denmark vs. Serbia for free

And, if you’re wondering what the best VPN for ITVX is, it’s ExpressVPN, hands down. With servers in 105 countries, including the UK, and a strict no-logging policy, you can trust ExpressVPN to keep your data secure.

So, what are you waiting for? Stream Denmark vs. Serbia for free with ExpressVPN.

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Tesla’s Cybertruck: A Recipe for Disaster

In a stunning display of incompetence, Tesla is recalling its Cybertruck for the umpteenth time, this time due to a faulty windshield wiper that can reduce visibility for the driver and a loose trim in the truck bed that can create a road hazard for others. But let’s be real, this is just a drop in the bucket for the troubled electric pickup.

The wiper issue, which has been plaguing owners for weeks, is just the latest in a long line of problems for the Cybertruck. And don’t even get me started on the trim. It’s like Tesla is playing a game of "spot the problem" with its customers, as if they’re just waiting for another excuse to delay deliveries and rack up the repair bills.

But the real question is, why are we still trusting Tesla with our safety? The company’s track record on recalls is abysmal, and yet it continues to pump out defective products and expect customers to just deal with it. And what’s with the lack of accountability? Elon Musk, the man behind the curtain, is still collecting a fat paycheck while his company’s customers are left to deal with the fallout.

And let’s not forget the Cybertruck’s latest publicity stunt: a group of vandals defacing dozens of the vehicles with the words "Fuck Elon" in black spray paint. It’s a cruel joke, really. The Cybertruck is already a laughingstock, and now it’s getting vandalized to boot.

So, to all the Cybertruck owners out there, I say this: you’ve been warned. This is just the beginning of the nightmare that is Tesla’s Cybertruck. Buckle up, folks.

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EU Accuses Microsoft of Monopolistic Schemes, Demands Justice

In a scathing rebuke, the European Union has formally accused Microsoft of violating competition rules by bundling its Teams app with its cloud-based productivity suites, Office 365 and Microsoft 365. The EU’s statement of objections alleges that Microsoft’s tactics have stifled innovation and given Teams an unfair advantage over rival products like Slack.

The investigation, which began in July 2023, was sparked by a complaint filed by Slack, which accused Microsoft of anticompetitive behavior. The EU’s preliminary findings suggest that Microsoft’s bundling has restricted competition in the communication and collaboration market, allowing the company to maintain its dominant position in the productivity software market.

The EU’s concerns are not limited to Microsoft’s bundling practices. The Commission also suspects that the company’s interoperability limitations between Teams and its competitors have prevented rivals from innovating and competing effectively. This, in turn, has harmed customers in the European Economic Area.

If found guilty, Microsoft could face a fine of up to 10% of its annual worldwide turnover. The EU could also impose remedies to restore competition in the market.

Microsoft has been contacted for comment, but it’s unclear whether the company will respond to the EU’s allegations. The statement of objections marks the beginning of a new phase in the investigation, during which Microsoft will be invited to respond to the EU’s preliminary findings.

The EU’s decision to open an investigation into Microsoft’s practices is a significant blow to the company’s dominance in the productivity software market. The Commission’s findings could have far-reaching implications for the tech industry, potentially leading to changes in the way companies operate and compete.

The Real Story: Microsoft’s Monopoly

Behind the scenes, Microsoft’s bundling of Teams with its productivity suites is just the tip of the iceberg. The company’s real goal is to maintain its stranglehold on the productivity software market, crushing any potential competition in the process.

By bundling Teams with its cloud-based suites, Microsoft is able to lock customers into its ecosystem, making it difficult for them to switch to rival products. This is a classic example of monopolistic behavior, and the EU’s investigation is a welcome step towards holding Microsoft accountable.

The Future of Competition

The EU’s investigation into Microsoft’s practices sends a clear message: the Commission will not tolerate monopolistic behavior in the tech industry. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it’s essential that regulators remain vigilant, ensuring that companies like Microsoft do not abuse their power and stifle innovation.

The future of competition in the tech industry depends on it.

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Celine Dion’s Shocking Downfall: The Rise and Fall of a Pop Icon

A Cautionary Tale of Unrelenting Ambition and the Unpredictability of Fate

Celine Dion’s glittering career has been marked by unprecedented success and untold sacrifices. Her new documentary, "I Am: Celine Dion," is a disturbing exposé that delves into the dark underbelly of the pop music industry and the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition.

Behind the glamour of sold-out shows and multi-platinum albums, Dion’s story is one of unyielding dedication to her craft, even when it’s destroying her physically and mentally. Her latest tour, which culminated in a crippling diagnosis of stiff person syndrome, was a desperate attempt to outrun her demons and preserve her reign as the "Queen of Power Ballads."

As we follow Dion’s journey, we are treated to a haunting glimpse of her struggles with vocal cord impairment, crippling seizures, and the crushing uncertainty of her future in the spotlight. The once-unstoppable singer is now a shadow of her former self, fighting for her very livelihood and questioning her identity without her iconic voice.

"I Am: Celine Dion" is a searing indictment of the entertainment industry’s brutal toll on its biggest stars. We see a performer consumed by the need to create, to entertain, and to please her audience at all costs. Her husband’s tragic death and her own relentless drive for success have left her with nothing but a haunting sense of regret and longing.

The film’s most striking moment comes when Dion allows the cameras to capture her anguish as she fights to regain her vocal powers. The desperation in her eyes, the strain in her voice, and the crippling uncertainty that has become her constant companion – it’s a jarring reminder that even the greatest artists are not immune to the ravages of time, trauma, and the relentless pursuit of fame.

As the curtain falls on this mesmerizing, disturbing, and deeply unsettling documentary, we are left with a haunting question: what lies beyond the spotlight, beyond the applause, and beyond the crushing expectations of the world? Is there still a Celine Dion beyond the songs, the tours, and the screaming fans? The answer, much like the film itself, remains a heart-wrenching, awe-inspiring, and profoundly unsettling enigma.

How to watch: "I Am: Celine Dion" is now streaming on Prime Video.

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LOGITECH’S NEW GAMING KEYBOARD: A DESPERATE ATTEMPT TO RECLAIM THE THROWN CROWN

In a last-ditch effort to stay relevant in the gaming keyboard market, Logitech has announced the G515 Lightspeed TKL Wireless, a low-profile gaming keyboard that’s only marginally better than its predecessors. The G515 boasts upgraded low-profile switches that are now compatible with Cherry MX-style keycaps, a feature that’s long overdue in the gaming community.

But let’s be real, the G515 is just a rehashed version of the G915 Lightspeed Wireless keyboard, which debuted in 2019. The new design is a TKL (tenkeyless) version, which eliminates the number pad and the wide volume wheel that sat above it. Gone are the days of having a functional volume control; now you’re stuck with a bland, boring keyboard that’s only good for typing out tweets about how much you hate your job.

And don’t even get me started on the price. The G515 is available for a whopping $139, which is significantly cheaper than the G915, but still overpriced for what you’re getting. You could buy a decent mechanical keyboard for half the price, but where’s the fun in that?

But wait, there’s more! The G515 also features a "polyoxymethylene (POM), cross style stem" design, which is just a fancy way of saying that it’s compatible with low-profile Cherry MX-style keycaps. Because who doesn’t want to spend an extra $50 on a keyboard just to be able to swap out the keycaps?

And let’s not forget about the RGB lighting, which is the only thing that’s truly impressive about this keyboard. The G515 features customizable RGB lighting through the Logitech G HUB app, which is just a fancy way of saying that you can change the color of the lights to match your mood.

But here’s the thing: the G515 is just a rehashed version of a keyboard that’s already several years old. It’s a desperate attempt by Logitech to stay relevant in a market that’s moving on to better things. And at $139, it’s just not worth it.

KEY FEATURES:

• Upgraded low-profile switches compatible with Cherry MX-style keycaps
• TKL design eliminates number pad and volume wheel
• Available in white or black finish with matching double-shot PBT keycaps
• RGB lighting customizable through Logitech G HUB app
• Supports Bluetooth, USB-C, and proprietary 2.4GHz Lightspeed technology
• Battery life rated at up to 625 hours with RGB lighting turned off

VERDICT:

The G515 is a disappointing effort from Logitech, a company that once dominated the gaming keyboard market. It’s a rehashed version of a keyboard that’s already several years old, with only a few minor improvements. The price is too high, and the features are too limited. If you’re in the market for a new gaming keyboard, look elsewhere.

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