Samsung Electronics has signed a significant **$16.5 billion** semiconductor supply agreement with an undisclosed global corporation. This deal, which will be effective from **July 26, 2024**, through **December 31, 2033**, relates to chip manufacturing and remains confidential to protect trade secrets. Following the announcement, Samsung’s shares surged by **3.5%**, marking their largest gain in four weeks. This strategic move comes as Samsung seeks to enhance its position in the competitive AI chip market, where it faces challenges from **Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC)**.
Hall Raises $2 Million to Transform AI Marketing
In another development, AI marketing startup **Hall** has successfully raised **$2 million** in a pre-seed funding round led by **Blackbird**. Founded in **2023** by **Kai Forsyth**, Hall aims to assist businesses in managing their visibility across various AI platforms such as **ChatGPT**, **Gemini**, and **Claude**. With a notable decline in traditional SEO practices, Hall is positioning itself to provide essential tools for companies to optimize their presence in AI-generated content. The platform is designed to tap into a new marketing channel emerging from the shift from conventional search engines to AI-driven discovery.
Deloitte and Meta Expand Workforce and Research Horizons
In employment news, **Deloitte Shared Services India LLP** is currently hiring for an **Associate Director** position in **Mumbai**. Candidates are required to hold a law degree or be members of professional bodies such as **ICSI**, **ICAI**, or **ICMAI**, along with **10-12 years** of experience in data privacy implementation. Preferred qualifications include certifications such as **IAPP** and **ISO 27001:2022**, along with a background in science, IT, or engineering. Applicants should have a thorough understanding of privacy laws and regulatory compliance.
Meanwhile, **Meta** has appointed **Shengjia Zhao**, a co-creator of **ChatGPT** and former scientist at **OpenAI**, as the chief scientist of its newly established **Superintelligence Lab**. Officially launched on **June 30, 2025**, this lab will focus on advancing AI research under Zhao’s leadership alongside Chief AI Officer **Alexandr Wang**. This appointment underscores Meta’s commitment to artificial general intelligence (AGI) and intensifies its competition with OpenAI and **DeepMind** in attracting top talent and enhancing foundational model development.
SharpLink Gaming Increases Ethereum Holdings
In the cryptocurrency space, **SharpLink Gaming** has made headlines by acquiring **77,210 ETH**, valued at approximately **$295 million**. This acquisition raises the firm’s total Ethereum holdings to **438,017 ETH**, with a market value of **$1.69 billion**. SharpLink plans to stake the newly purchased ETH, continuing its aggressive strategy of accumulation. A significant portion of its holdings is either staked or held on liquid staking platforms. This move reflects an increasing institutional interest in Ethereum, contributing to a **3%** rise in ETH prices, with analysts projecting higher price targets for the cryptocurrency in both the short and long term.
These developments illustrate the dynamic nature of the technology and finance sectors, highlighting significant investments and strategic moves that could reshape the landscape in the coming years.
