Major AI Moves: Intel Nears $1.6B SambaNova Deal & US Launches 'Tech Force' | December 17, 2025

📋 Quick Takeaways

Intel in advanced talks to acquire SambaNova Systems for $1.6 billion, a potential lifeline in its battle against Nvidia.
US Government launches “Tech Force” to recruit 1,000 AI experts and engineers for federal service modernization.
Duke University unveils AI that decodes “hidden laws of nature” directly from raw physical data without human input.
OpenAI-backed Chai Discovery raises $130M at a $1.3B valuation to revolutionize drug design.
Amazon exposes massive GRU cyber espionage campaign targeting Western infrastructure since 2021.
Instagram rolls out “Your Algorithm” allowing users to reset recommendations, while DoorDash pilots AI dining app “Zesty.”

💼 Major M&A & Industry Shifts

Intel Negotiates $1.6 Billion Acquisition of SambaNova Systems

Strategic Consolidation: Industry reports from December 16 confirm that Intel is in advanced negotiations to acquire AI chip startup SambaNova Systems for approximately $1.6 billion.

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AI & Tech Brief: Broadcom Market Shakeup, China's Chip Ban & Scientific AI Breakthroughs | December 13, 2025

📋 Quick Takeaways

Broadcom stock dip drags down Nasdaq despite strong earnings, reigniting “AI Bubble” fears
China strategically blocks US H200 chips, favoring domestic semiconductor independence
Intel finalizes major AI startup acquisition to regain data center market share
Google updates “AI Mode” with enhanced citations to support publishers
New AI tools launch: “SciSciGPT” for researchers and “AI Workforce” for manufacturing

📉 Market & Geopolitics

Broadcom Earnings Fail to Quell “AI Bubble” Fears

Market Reaction: Despite posting better-than-expected earnings for the October quarter, Broadcom’s stock declined, triggering a broader sell-off across the tech sector.