Table of Contents

• Goldman Sachs

• Google AI Search

• Microsoft-OpenAI Probe

Top Stories Today

Goldman Sachs

Goldman Sachs has secured its role as the sole advisor for CK Hutchison’s $19 billion port sale to a BlackRock-led consortium, giving BlackRock control over 43 ports worldwide. Competing firms like Blackstone and KKR were sidelined as Goldman’s team moved swiftly to finalize the deal. The transaction strengthens Goldman’s dominance in M&A and its long-standing relationship with CK Hutchison, a company founded by Li Ka-shing. Investors reacted positively, with CK Hutchison’s stock surging 22% in Hong Kong. While speculation swirls about U.S. strategic interests, executives insist the sale is purely business-driven. The deal highlights rising interest in infrastructure assets from major institutional investors.

Google AI Search

Google has introduced an experimental AI-powered search mode that replaces its traditional 10 blue links with an AI-generated summary. Available through Google One AI Premium at $19.99 per month, the new “AI Mode” allows users to see detailed AI summaries with linked sources and ask follow-up questions. The feature, powered by a custom Gemini 2.0 model, aims to improve responses to complex queries. Google is increasingly integrating AI into search to stay competitive against Microsoft-backed OpenAI, which added search to ChatGPT. However, its AI search tools have drawn criticism, with Chegg suing Google over concerns about content erosion.

Microsoft-OpenAI Probe

The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has ended its investigation into Microsoft's partnership with OpenAI, concluding that while Microsoft wields significant influence, it does not fully control OpenAI’s commercial policies. The probe began after Microsoft backed Sam Altman’s reinstatement as OpenAI’s CEO, raising concerns about potential merger implications. Critics argue that the CMA’s decision reflects political shifts favoring Big Tech, especially after a former Amazon UK chief was appointed as CMA chair. Despite closing the case, the regulator emphasized that AI partnerships remain under scrutiny. Microsoft welcomed the decision, calling the partnership pro-competition and pro-innovation.

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