Paramount earnings, revenue beat expectations as streaming business offers a boost
Paramount Skydance said it added streaming subscribers during the first quarter even as it instituted its first price hike since 2024.

Paramount Skydance said it added streaming subscribers during the first quarter even as it instituted its first price hike since 2024.

AI startup Lyzr successfully raised $100 million in its Series B funding round by utilizing its proprietary AI agent, SivaClaw. The AI handled investor inquiries, drafted memos, and tracked engagement, demonstrating the product's efficacy and securing interest from over 130 investors without founder travel.

Sequoia partner David Cahn projects AI infrastructure spending to hit $1.5 trillion by 2026, requiring $3 trillion in revenue to justify the investment. Despite strong ARR from companies like Anthropic and OpenAI, a significant revenue gap remains, posing a risk to the economy if hyperscalers fail to meet cash flow goals.

Allstate Insurance is suing Broadcom, alleging the tech giant initiated haphazard audits in retaliation for Allstate not renewing contracts with VMware and CA Technologies. Allstate claims it complied with audit requirements, while VMware alleges Allstate stonewalled and removed software.

EV startup Slate Auto, backed by Jeff Bezos, is partnering with Crayola to offer five custom vehicle wraps in signature Crayola colors. The wraps cost $1,549.99 and include a matching key fob and dashboard art piece. This marks Crayola's first automotive partnership.

Gas prices in the U.S. have fluctuated significantly this year, with averages ranging from $2.79 to $4.56 per gallon. This volatility, driven by global conflicts and shipping disruptions, impacts consumer behavior, leading to more frequent but smaller fuel purchases. Experts predict these price swings will continue, advising drivers to budget for higher costs and seek savings through apps or fuel-efficient habits.

Venture capitalist Charles Hudson discusses challenges for early-stage founders, advising against chasing high valuations and urging founders to conduct due diligence on investors. He also highlights the changing VC landscape, influenced by rapid AI company growth.