Key developments in the tech industry include Binance launching Saga on its Launchpool, Ripple planning a US dollar stablecoin, and South Africa investigating Microsoft's cloud computing licensing practices. nLIGHTen acquires seven data centers from Exa Infrastructure, and RETN launches a new DDoS mitigation platform. Global markets experience fluctuations, and Spotify announces new subscription plans. Meta introduces AI-powered features to Instagram and collaborates with Ray-Ban on smart glasses, while Nvidia and Indosat plan a $200 million AI center investment in Indonesia.

Amazon initiates layoffs in its cloud computing division as part of a restructuring effort. Google announces Chrome OS updates with new features like Pixel Watch and Phone integration. Brave launches an AI assistant for iPhone and iPad users. WhatsApp experiences a global outage, raising concerns about Meta's messaging platforms. Former President Trump sues Truth Social co-founders over breach of contract and misuse of funds. Galaxy Digital plans to raise $100 million for its first crypto venture fund. Bitcoin continues to experience volatile price fluctuations. Intel reports a $7 billion operating loss in its foundry business. IGM Financial partners with Eviden to enhance its digital capabilities through cloud computing services. Meta introduces age confirmation for Quest 2 users to enhance child safety measures.

Lu Heng, founder and CEO of LARUS Ltd, advocates for decentralizing the ownership and registration of IP addresses using blockchain technology. He criticizes the current centralized system managed by Regional Internet Registries as outdated and vulnerable to power abuse. Heng envisions a safer, fairer, and more efficient internet without centralized control points, which he believes is essential to prevent fragmentation. He argues that the commercialization of IP addresses is not the issue, but rather the centralization of their control. Heng also reassures that the transition to IPv6 will ensure internet access remains affordable and accessible, dismissing concerns over IP address costs. His campaign aims to protect the internet's unity and openness for future generations.

Lu Heng, founder and CEO of LARUS Ltd, advocates for the decentralization of IP addresses and domain names to make the internet safer, fairer, and more efficient. He criticizes the centralized control by Regional Internet Registries and envisions a decentralized internet without a single point of vulnerability. Heng believes that decentralization is necessary to prevent fragmentation and maintain a unified internet. He also discusses the transition from IPv4 to IPv6, which he sees as a solution to the scarcity of IP addresses and a way to keep internet access costs low. Heng's campaign is gaining recognition among businesses and governments, and he emphasizes the importance of a free and open internet for future generations.

Samsung aims to enhance its Galaxy Ring with health and AR features. Google introduces new accessibility and productivity tools at MWC. A user faces a large BigQuery bill due to an uninformed query. Vice's historical significance and the permanence of online content are analyzed. NASA collaborates with Intuitive Machines for the Artemis mission. OpenAI's Sam Altman unveils SORA, an AI for generating videos, raising disinformation concerns. The Barbie Dream Phone is set to launch, appealing to nostalgia. The James Webb Space Telescope detects signals from a neutron star collision. Speculation arises about the iPhone 16 Pro's unconventional camera design. Google Pay is set to shut down in the US.

Mark Zuckerberg reviews Apple's Vision Pro and Quest 3, Waymo recalls self-driving cars due to a software issue, and a decryption tool for Rhysida ransomware is released. The legal battle between TikTok, Taylor Swift, and Universal Music Group is analyzed, while concerns about wearing Apple Vision Pro in public are raised. Gig economy workers from Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash plan a strike, ChatGPT advances with human-like memory, and Intuitive Machines targets the first commercial moon landing. The Faroe Islands unveil the world's largest tidal energy kite, and the importance of Section 230 for internet freedom is discussed.

A roundup of top tech stories includes insights into the future of gaming hardware from major companies, Finom's $54M funding for SME financial services, ethical considerations of AI in software development, a review of the Bose Smart Ultra soundbar, upcoming loss of Windows 11 support for older PCs, Tesla's dominance in the EV charging market, supermarkets using AI for sales prediction, developers' opposition to Apple's DMA regulations, the significance of environmental DNA in scientific research, and the doubling of Arm Holdings' stock market value due to AI demand.

Top tech stories include Ofcom's investigation into Virgin Media's compliance with digital switchover rules, the global impact of wildfire smoke on air quality, and a comprehensive guide to seed funding in 2024. Mozilla's CEO resignation raises concerns about the organization's future, while a nuclear fusion experiment marks a significant energy milestone. Meta's first anniversary since rebranding highlights regulatory challenges, and a camera comparison between Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and Google Pixel 8 Pro aids consumer decisions. Rayneo X2 Lite smart glasses face criticism for privacy issues, and the Goody AI chatbot sets a precedent for ethical AI development. Additionally, a US astronaut sets a record for the longest spaceflight by a woman.

Last Energy, founded by Bret Kugelmass, develops 20 MWe micro-modular nuclear power plants aimed at making nuclear energy more compact, quicker, and cost-effective. Established in 2020 as a spinoff from the Energy Impact Centre, the company has secured agreements for 51 units across Europe, valued at $32 billion, with the first plant set to commence operations in 2025. The company aims to provide clean, reliable baseload power to industries, particularly data centers, by offering a smaller, modular, and affordable nuclear energy solution. The reactors are designed to meet high safety standards and are capable of being deployed quickly and efficiently.

As 2023 ends, the Hard Fork podcast hosts Kevin Roose and Casey Newton share their tech predictions for 2024, covering topics like social media, AI, and mixed reality. They predict Meta's Threads will surpass X in daily users, a lawless LLM chatbot will gain popularity, Google's LLM will catch up to OpenAI, white-collar workers will unionize against AI-related job losses, Apple's Vision Pro will revive interest in XR and the metaverse, and Elon Musk will face a scandal similar to the Hunter Biden laptop incident.

RIPE is facing financial uncertainty with forecasted losses of several million euros over the next three years, necessitating a reevaluation of its fee structure. The organization's budget is set to decrease from EUR 40 million to EUR 38 million due to reduced income, higher inflation, and instability in regions like Ukraine. RIPE's CFO, Simon-Jan Haytink, has emphasized the need for change to avoid drastic actions such as cutting activities. A GDP-based fee structure is being considered for its potential benefits in economic fairness, accessibility, financial sustainability, and simplicity, despite its challenges. RIPE NCC's executive board is urged to heed the call for change, as the current financial trajectory is unsustainable.

RIPE NCC's CFO Simon-Jan Haytink projected losses of €4-8 million annually from 2025 to 2027 due to membership consolidation, high inflation, and late or unpaid fees from high-risk countries like Ukraine. He advised that changes are necessary to address the financial challenges. RIPE NCC, which allocates IP addresses in Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia, also introduced new criteria for executive board appointments to avoid conflicts of interest. The RIPE 87 General Meeting included discussions on maintaining fees for 2024, considering inflation-adjusted salary increases for employees, and a new membership fee scheme.

Sam Altman has returned as CEO of OpenAI after being ousted and then rehired, with the board members who fired him now removed except for Adam D’Angelo. Greg Brockman, who resigned after Altman's firing, also returns. The leadership turmoil raises questions about OpenAI's stability and future. Emmett Shear, briefly CEO, criticized the handling of Altman's termination and proposed plans for recovery. Microsoft's involvement, including an offer to Altman and a $10 million signing bonus for employees, is also highlighted.

Sam Altman, former CEO of OpenAI, was fired by the board due to accusations of not being consistently candid. Following backlash from investors, including Microsoft, Altman entered talks to be rehired, contingent on the board being replaced. Altman and Greg Brockman, former president of OpenAI, have been hired by Microsoft to lead a new advanced AI research team. Emmet Shear will replace interim CEO Mira Murati at OpenAI. The firing has been described as abrupt and illogical, with theories suggesting a clash between Altman's fast-paced approach and chief scientist Ilya Sutskever's cautious stance. Altman has expressed willingness to return to OpenAI if the board is ousted.

The article lists various freelance opportunities and calls for pitches across different platforms and publications. It includes opportunities for tech editors, travel writers, investigative reporters, Black poets, and writers of Palestinian descent. The text provides details on how to pitch, the type of content sought, and the compensation offered. Key organizations mentioned include FIERCE by mitú, Virtuoso, The Magazine, The i Paper, openDemocracy, Cave Canem, Sundress Publications, Essence, and Freethinker Magazine.

Sam Bankman-Fried, former CEO of FTX, is on trial for allegedly defrauding customers to cover losses at Alameda Research. Three tech lawyers, Ken Sterling, Felix Shipkevich, and Colin Levy, opine that the evidence against Bankman-Fried is strong, predicting a likely conviction. The trial has revealed significant emotional and financial turmoil, with comparisons to other high-profile fraud cases. Bankman-Fried's decision to testify is seen as a last resort, and the prosecution's portrayal of him and FTX has been largely negative.

Randy Bush received the Rob Blokzijl Award for 2023 at RIPE 87 for his significant contributions to the development of the Internet in the RIPE NCC Services region. In his speech, Bush criticized the Regional Internet Registries (RIRs) for their inefficiencies, wasteful spending, and lack of usability. He called for a major overhaul of RIR operations and emphasized the need for greater diversity in the industry. Bush also paid tribute to Rob Blokzijl, the award's namesake, highlighting his leadership and integrity.

Bertrand Meylan, CEO of Melb Luxe Subsidiaries, discusses his leadership of luxury watch brands H. Moser & Cie. and Hautlence. He highlights the brands' achievements, including building a strong community during the pandemic and launching innovative timepieces like the Endeavour Small Seconds Total Eclipse and Streamliner Chronograph Undefeated. Meylan emphasizes the importance of both engineering and artistry in watchmaking and outlines future plans for both brands, including new materials and complications. He also reflects on the opportunities in the digital space for luxury brands and shares his personal philosophy on time.

ICANN's 2023 Africa Domain Name Industry Study invites comments but largely overlooks the significant issue of AFRINIC's management crisis. The report, compiled by Powersoft Africa under the Coalition for Digital Africa, details the African DNS landscape but relegates AFRINIC's board removal to a brief mention. Despite AFRINIC's critical role, ICANN's report and representatives downplay its relevance to the domain name industry. The AFRINIC situation, marked by legal and operational challenges, has led to frustrations among African network operators, with some suggesting alternatives to the current registry system.

Gulfstream Aerospace president Mark Burns discusses the company's resilience and growth during the pandemic, highlighting record sales and the introduction of new aircraft models like the G700 and G800. Emphasizing the importance of customer interaction and the benefits of business aviation, Burns underscores Gulfstream's commitment to safety, performance, and environmental efficiency. The G700 world tour showcases the aircraft's advanced technology and luxurious cabin, aiming to redefine business travel.

The Asia Pacific DNS Forum 2024, organized by ICANN and PANDI, will be held in Bali, Indonesia, from July 23-24, 2024. The event, themed 'Building Bridges: Strengthening Collaboration to Shape the Internet’s Future,' aims to discuss the latest developments and challenges in the internet and domain name industry. The forum will include pre-event webinars and invites community engagement through proposal submissions for sessions.

A comprehensive list of 50 calls for journalism and writing pitches, including opportunities for disabled writers, e-commerce journalists, seasonal roles for the Sundance Film Festival, and various other freelance writing positions. The list provides details on how to apply, deadlines, and specific requirements for each opportunity.

A list of 40 calls for journalism and writing pitches, including job opportunities and freelance writing positions from various organizations such as Hammer & Hope, The Escapist, and ObjectiveJrn. The article highlights opportunities for writers to contribute to different publications, covering topics from political contributions to climate stories and workplace culture.

Bruce Lee, originally known as Li Xiaolong, transitioned from a successful Hong Kong actor to an international legend following his untimely death on July 20, 1973. His philosophy of the 'methodless method' and his universal appeal have made him a timeless icon. Lee's influence spans across various demographics, from martial artists to filmmakers, and his legacy continues to grow. Despite his limited filmography, his impact is profound, with numerous books and studies dedicated to his life and work. The article explores the hypothetical trajectory of Lee's career had he lived and discusses how his death contributed to his legendary status.

Bruce Lee, originally known as Li Xiaolong, transformed from a successful Hong Kong actor into an international movie megastar and cult icon after his untimely death in 1973. His philosophy of the 'methodless method' and his universal appeal have made him a timeless figure. Lee's legacy is celebrated by various groups, from martial artists to filmmakers, and his influence continues to grow. Despite his limited filmography, his impact is profound, with his charisma and unique fighting style setting him apart. The article explores the questions of what Lee could have achieved had he lived and how his death contributed to his legendary status.

A Bryde’s whale appeared in Sai Kung, Hong Kong, attracting many sightseers but was later found dead, likely due to human activity. The incident has sparked calls for better whale protection laws and public education. Ali Bullock of the Ocean Azores Foundation highlights the importance of whale conservation for carbon capture and sustainable tourism, drawing parallels with successful conservation efforts in the Azores. The WWF in Hong Kong advocates for expanding marine protected areas and educating the public on marine mammal encounters to ensure the coexistence of humans and marine life.

A Bryde’s whale appeared in Sai Kung, Hong Kong, sparking public interest and highlighting the need for better marine conservation. The whale's subsequent death has led to calls for protective laws and better public education on marine life. Ali Bullock of the Ocean Azores Foundation and Dr. Loby Hau Cheuk-yu of WWF HK emphasize the importance of marine protected areas and the ecological benefits of whales. The article advocates for a balance between tourism and marine sustainability, drawing parallels with successful conservation efforts in the Azores.

Experts from the wine industry provide insights on starting a wine collection, emphasizing the importance of understanding what makes a wine collectible, focusing on traditionally successful wine regions, and buying wines that experts recommend. Key regions include Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne, with notable wines from the US, Italy, Spain, Germany, and Australia. Collectible wines should have qualities like balance, typicity, intensity, and length. The article highlights the personal enjoyment of wine collection, with experts sharing their favorite collectible wines and the joy of sharing great wine with friends.

A hacker, known as 'Snow', gained access to Orange Espana's RIPE NCC account and publicized the breach on X. The issue was quickly resolved, with Orange confirming no customer data was compromised, though significant traffic was affected. The incident raised concerns about RIPE NCC's account security, prompting calls for improved multi-factor authentication and auditability. RIPE NCC is investigating the breach and advising account holders to update their security measures. Hans Petter Holen, RIPE NCC's CEO, emphasized the need for learning from this incident.

Kirstin Chen discusses her third novel 'Counterfeit' and her writing process, emphasizing the importance of time for improvement and regeneration in her work. She shares her daily routine, her approach to writing, and her experiences with her editor and agent. Chen also mentions her treasured vintage Patek Philippe watch and her role as the cook in her household.

James Suckling, a renowned wine critic, reflects on his 40-year career, which was inspired by a bottle of 1966 Château Lafite Rothschild given by his father. He shares his passion for wine, connoisseurship, and the social aspects it fosters. Suckling spends his days tasting up to 50 wines and traveling globally to meet winery owners and winemakers. He also teaches wine appreciation on Masterclass and plans to continue his wine-related activities post-retirement. Suckling emphasizes the importance of time and patience in wine-making and enjoys wearing his Rolex GMT-Master II: Batman. His daily routine involves tasting wines, conducting interviews, and engaging with winemakers to understand their craft.

Nikhil Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha and True Beacon, is one of India's youngest billionaires. He attributes his success to timing and great colleagues. Zerodha, founded in 2010, now handles 15% of India's retail trading volume. Kamath's net worth, along with his brother's, doubled during the pandemic. He plans to donate 25% of his wealth to philanthropic causes and $100 million towards climate change. Kamath has a passion for luxury watches, owning rare pieces like an F.P. Journe and a vintage LeCoultre. His daily routine includes a structured workday, gym sessions, and reading.

Private business jet subscriptions are revolutionizing luxury travel, making it more accessible to business travelers. Companies like VistaJet and Jettly offer flexible membership services that provide access to a fleet of aircraft with minimal notice. The pandemic has accelerated the shift towards private aviation due to limited commercial options. VistaJet, which owns most of its aircraft, and Jettly, which operates like an Uber for planes, are leading this trend. Despite the high costs, the benefits of avoiding ownership expenses and the convenience of private flights are driving growth. Sustainability remains a challenge, but companies like VistaJet are committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2025.

Serious wine collectors should focus on bottles with cellaring potential and a solid secondary market demand, according to Jeannie Cho Lee, Asia’s first certified Master of Wine. Regions like Bordeaux and Burgundy in France consistently produce collectible wines, but investors should also consider areas like Napa Valley, Barolo, Chile, Australia, Germany, and New Zealand. Champagne was the top-performing region in 2021. Vintage port is also a collectible wine. Costs associated with wine collecting include storage, cataloguing, insurance, transportation, and commissions. Justin Gibbs of Liv-Ex notes wine's scarcity factor makes it a successful asset class. Bruno Borie emphasizes the enjoyment aspect of wine collecting, suggesting that collections should appeal to the collector's tastes, whether for investment or consumption.

With Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Lunar New Year approaching, Kenneth Man, a fine wine specialist at Ginsberg+Chan, recommends six top wines to enhance festive meals. The selection includes Larmandier-Bernier VV du Levant Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru 2012, 00 Wines ‘VGW’ Very Good White Chardonnay 2019, Chavy Chouet Meursault Genevrieres 1er Cru 2019, Henri Jouan Morey Saint Denis Clos Sorbe 1er Cru 2018, Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou 1994, and Clemens Busch Marienburg Falkenlay Riesling Auslese Half Bottle 2019. Each wine is praised for its unique qualities and suitability for festive pairings.

The article discusses the increasing trend of mobile banking and digital services in the financial sector, highlighting the shift towards a mobile-first experience. HSBC has introduced numerous digital features and recorded significant growth in app usage, while its mobile wallet PayMe partnered with the Hong Kong government's voucher scheme. The rise of virtual banks in Europe has enhanced the mobile banking experience, with Sia Partners evaluating global mobile banking apps. The pandemic has accelerated digital innovation, and the trend towards mobile banking is expected to continue due to its sustainability benefits.

The fine wine market has seen significant growth since the pandemic, with investments in wine outperforming many traditional assets. Data from Liv-ex shows record-breaking performance in 2021, with the secondary market for fine wine growing over 20%. Key regions like Burgundy and Bordeaux continue to provide strong returns, though other regions are gaining attention. Wine's built-in scarcity and low volatility make it a resilient investment, combining elements of luxury goods and financial assets.

Hong Kong offers a variety of luxurious and unique experiences for Mother's Day 2022. Aqua Luna features a special Dim Sum Cruise, while the Mandarin Oriental Hotel provides a comprehensive beauty staycation and multiple dining options. The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong offers a range of extravagant experiences, including a special staycation package and a Mother’s Day Gift Set. The Four Seasons Hong Kong showcases its culinary prowess with themed afternoon teas and special menus. Tate Dining Room presents innovative pastry creations for at-home celebrations. LKF Concepts and 1908BC offer diverse dining menus, blending traditional and contemporary flavors.

Watch brands like Panerai and Vacheron Constantin are leveraging NFTs and blockchain technology to enhance customer experience and prove authenticity. Panerai's CEO Jean-Marc Pontroué sees NFTs as a digital passport for personalizing relationships with customers, while Vacheron Constantin uses blockchain to combat fraud with digital certificates of authenticity. IWC Schaffhausen's CEO Chris Grainger-Herr values blockchain for the full brand experience and service it provides. Companies like Arianee and non-profits like Aura support luxury brands in creating and communicating NFT assets and sustainability efforts. H. Moser & Cie's CEO Edouard Meylan highlights the role of Web3 in improving transparency and trust, particularly in sourcing and supply chain optimization.

Amber at the Landmark Mandarin Oriental won the Best Wine List award, and Lorenzo Antinori at Four Seasons’ Argo was named Best Bartender in the 100 Top Tables 2022 awards. Amber's wine list is praised for its variety and accessibility, while Argo's cocktail menu is noted for its creativity and exploration of spirits. The awards highlight the adaptability and innovation of Hong Kong's hospitality industry during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Sir Michael Caine set an auction record on March 2 by selling various personal items, including luxury watches and memorabilia, at Bonhams in London. The highlight was his 18k gold Rolex Oysterquartz Day-Date, which sold for US$170,000, a record for that model. Other notable items included a Patek Philippe La Flamme, a Breitling Navitimer, and a director’s chair from the movie Get Carter. Caine expressed mixed feelings about parting with these treasured items but hoped they would bring joy to their new owners.

Hong Kong offers unique staycation experiences, including a 'yoga yacht' in Kowloon Bay and a stargazing dome at Saiyuen Camping Adventure Park on Cheung Chau. The yoga yacht provides a wellness-focused retreat with amenities like karaoke and board games, while the stargazing dome offers a private glamping experience. These options cater to those looking for a getaway without leaving the city.

The article provides a humorous and detailed account of the author's experience at a foot massage parlor in Hong Kong, highlighting the unexpected and sometimes chaotic environment. It also lists five foot massage places in Hong Kong, ranging from budget to deluxe options, with details on their services and prices.

James Durston, a professional with experience in journalism, editing, and digital communications, has worked on various projects for notable brands such as CNNGo, CNN Travel, and Discovery for Cathay Pacific. He has also contributed to JamesSuckling.com, SCMP Style magazine, Publistream.com, and Pitchwhiz.com. Additionally, Durston has authored books in the Travel Write Earn series. He is open to freelance opportunities in writing, editing, and editorial and communications project management. Contact information and a link to his LinkedIn profile are provided for those interested in his services.