Fintech stops hiring humans, mind control tech in development, Chanel appoints new designer, and more.
News from December 12 - December 19, 2024
Fintech Stops Hiring Humans
Klarna CEO Sebastian Siemiatkowski revealed that the fintech giant has stopped hiring humans, replacing hundreds of jobs with AI. Headcount has dropped 22% to 3,500, with 200 employees relying on AI for core tasks. During its latest earnings, Klarna used an AI-generated version of Siemiatkowski to present results, which he said proves AI could eventually replace all jobs.
Klarna’s AI assistant now handles the work of 700 customer service agents. With 85 million global customers, Klarna prepares for a U.S. IPO and aims to become a U.S. bank, potentially committing $1 billion under Trump’s accelerated licensing offer.
Mind Control Tech In Development
Precision Neuroscience has secured $102 million in funding, led by General Equity Holdings, raising its total to $155 million. Their Layer 7 device enables thought-based control of gadgets and is currently in testing.
Founded by ex-Neuralink co-founder Ben Rapoport, it competes with Elon Musk's Neuralink, which has raised over $685 million. Synchron, another competitor, demonstrated its tech with Mark, a 64-year-old with ALS, controlling his smart home using only his thoughts.
Synchron spokesperson: “This capability allows Mark to utilize the Synchron brain-computer interface to select customized tiles that perform pre-set Alexa actions, like turning on and off lights, making video calls, playing music and shows, controlling smart home devices, reading books on Kindle or purchasing items on Amazon—entirely hands and voice-free.”
Chanel Appoints New Designer
Chanel has appointed Matthieu Blazy, former Bottega Veneta creative director, as its new artistic director. Blazy, known for his sophisticated craftsmanship, will oversee haute couture, ready-to-wear, and accessories.
He succeeds Virginie Viard, marking a break from Karl Lagerfeld's era. Chanel sees this as a long-term commitment, aiming to evolve while respecting its heritage.
Blazy's success at Bottega Veneta was key to his selection. Chanel expects him to reenergize the $19.7 billion fashion giant with a focus on product innovation and growth. Blazy will be expected to churn out 10 collections a year across haute couture, ready-to-wear, and Coco Beach and Coco Neige lines.
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