‘Of course it’s a bubble’: AI start-up valuations soar in investor frenzy

Financial TimesThursday, October 16, 2025 at 4:00:14 AM
‘Of course it’s a bubble’: AI start-up valuations soar in investor frenzy
The recent surge in AI start-up valuations, with ten groups including OpenAI and Elon Musk's xAI nearing a staggering $1 trillion in value, highlights the intense investor enthusiasm surrounding artificial intelligence. This unprecedented funding not only reflects the growing confidence in AI technologies but also raises questions about sustainability and potential market corrections. As these companies continue to innovate, their impact on various industries could be transformative, making this a pivotal moment in the tech landscape.
— Curated by the World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended Readings
Foxconn shares surge after chairman reveals OpenAI meeting
PositiveFinancial Markets
Foxconn's shares have seen a significant surge following an announcement from its chairman about a meeting with OpenAI. This development is noteworthy as it suggests potential collaborations or innovations that could arise from the partnership, reflecting positively on Foxconn's future prospects in the tech industry.
Roquefort Therapeutics raises £300,000 to fund cancer drug acquisition
PositiveFinancial Markets
Roquefort Therapeutics has successfully raised £300,000 to fund the acquisition of a promising cancer drug. This funding is crucial as it allows the company to advance its mission of developing innovative treatments for cancer patients. The investment reflects growing confidence in the potential of new therapies to improve patient outcomes, making it a significant step forward in the fight against cancer.
Trump withholds $40.6 million from California over truck driver English rules
NegativeFinancial Markets
In a controversial move, Trump has decided to withhold $40.6 million in funding from California, citing the state's new English language requirements for truck drivers as the reason. This decision has sparked significant debate, as it raises questions about federal influence over state regulations and the potential impact on the trucking industry. Many argue that this could hinder job opportunities for non-English speaking drivers, while others see it as a necessary step to ensure safety and compliance in transportation.
Walmart on Path to Trillion Dollar Status After OpenAI Pact
PositiveFinancial Markets
Walmart is making headlines as it moves closer to achieving a trillion-dollar valuation, thanks to its recent partnership with OpenAI. This collaboration allows customers to shop directly through ChatGPT, enhancing the shopping experience by integrating AI technology. With this innovative approach, Walmart is not only boosting its stock prices but also setting a new standard for online shopping. This development is significant as it showcases how traditional retail can evolve by leveraging cutting-edge technology, potentially reshaping consumer habits.
'It's a new common sense' Oxfam calls on governments to do more to tax the rich
PositiveFinancial Markets
Oxfam is urging governments to reconsider wealth taxes, highlighting the stark reality that the richest 1% possess more wealth than the bottom 95% combined. Susana Ruiz, Oxfam's Tax Policy Lead, emphasizes that taxing the wealthy is becoming a necessary approach in today's economic landscape. This call for action is particularly relevant in France, where the debate over wealth taxation is intensifying. Additionally, concerns are being raised about Elon Musk's Starlink and its potential role in facilitating online scams in Southeast Asia, adding another layer to the discussion about corporate responsibility.
Brown University Refuses Trump’s Funding Deal—Second School To Reject Compact
NegativeFinancial Markets
Brown University has become the second institution to reject a funding deal proposed by the Trump administration, which incentivizes colleges to align their policies with Trump's agenda. This decision highlights the ongoing tension between educational institutions and political influences, raising questions about the implications for academic freedom and institutional autonomy. As more schools take a stand against such funding, it could signal a broader resistance to political pressures in higher education.
Long Battle Over Elon Musk’s Tesla Pay Moves Closer to a Resolution
NeutralFinancial Markets
The Delaware Supreme Court is currently deliberating on a significant case regarding Elon Musk's multibillion-dollar compensation package as CEO of Tesla. This long-standing dispute centers on whether Musk's pay is fair to shareholders, a matter that could set important precedents for executive compensation in the future. The outcome of this case is crucial as it not only affects Tesla's financial landscape but also has broader implications for corporate governance and accountability.
Mark Cuban warns that OpenAI’s new plan to allow adults-only erotica in ChatGPT could ‘backfire. Hard’
NegativeFinancial Markets
Mark Cuban has raised concerns about OpenAI's recent decision to allow adults-only erotica in ChatGPT, suggesting that it could lead to significant backlash. He expressed skepticism on social media, stating that parents are unlikely to trust the effectiveness of age restrictions, which could undermine the platform's credibility and safety for younger users. This issue is particularly important as it touches on the broader conversation about online safety and the responsibilities of tech companies in protecting children.
ChatGPT to allow porn – OpenAI CEO
PositiveFinancial Markets
OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman has announced that verified users will soon be able to access erotic content on ChatGPT. This move is significant as it expands the platform's capabilities and caters to a broader audience, reflecting changing attitudes towards adult content in AI applications. It opens up new possibilities for user engagement and content creation, making ChatGPT a more versatile tool.
Morgan Stanley revamps Broadcom’s price target with a twist
PositiveFinancial Markets
Broadcom has just made headlines by partnering with OpenAI on a groundbreaking AI infrastructure project. This collaboration will see them co-developing a massive 10-gigawatt fleet of custom accelerator racks, set to launch in late 2026. This deal not only highlights Broadcom's commitment to advancing AI technology but also positions them as a key player in the rapidly evolving tech landscape, making it a significant development for investors and tech enthusiasts alike.
Evercore ISI raises Broadcom stock price target to $403 on OpenAI deal
PositiveFinancial Markets
Evercore ISI has raised its price target for Broadcom's stock to $403, largely due to the company's recent deal with OpenAI. This adjustment reflects growing confidence in Broadcom's potential for growth and innovation, especially in the tech sector. Investors are likely to view this as a positive sign, indicating that Broadcom is well-positioned to capitalize on advancements in artificial intelligence.
MIT spinout Vertical Semiconductor raises $11 million for AI power chip tech
PositiveFinancial Markets
MIT spinout Vertical Semiconductor has successfully raised $11 million to advance its innovative AI power chip technology. This funding is significant as it highlights the growing interest and investment in AI-driven solutions, which are crucial for enhancing energy efficiency in various applications. The development of such technology could lead to more sustainable energy consumption and improved performance in electronic devices, making it a noteworthy advancement in the semiconductor industry.
Latest from Financial Markets
Amazon is selling a $400 assembly-free cloud sofa with a perfect 5-star rating for only $270
PositiveFinancial Markets
Amazon has launched a fantastic deal on its assembly-free cloud sofa, originally priced at $400, now available for just $270. This stylish and comfortable couch, which boasts a perfect 5-star rating, comes in three beautiful colors, making it an attractive option for anyone looking to upgrade their living space. This sale not only highlights the quality of the product but also offers consumers a great opportunity to enhance their home decor without breaking the bank.
Bank of England survey shows credit availability rising in UK
PositiveFinancial Markets
A recent survey by the Bank of England indicates that credit availability is on the rise in the UK, which is a positive sign for both consumers and businesses. This increase in credit can stimulate economic growth, allowing individuals to make significant purchases and companies to invest in expansion. As the economy continues to recover, this trend could lead to more job creation and improved financial stability for many.
Portugal’s electricity regulator proposes 1% tariff increase for 2026
NeutralFinancial Markets
Portugal's electricity regulator has proposed a 1% increase in tariffs for 2026, a move that could impact consumers and businesses alike. This adjustment is part of ongoing efforts to balance energy costs and ensure the sustainability of the electricity market. While the increase is modest, it highlights the challenges faced in the energy sector and the need for regulatory measures to maintain service quality.
JPMorgan initiates Wacom stock with Overweight rating on improved profitability
PositiveFinancial Markets
JPMorgan has initiated coverage of Wacom with an Overweight rating, highlighting the company's improved profitability. This is significant as it reflects confidence in Wacom's financial health and growth potential, which could attract more investors and positively impact the stock market.
JPMorgan upgrades Jumbo Interactive stock to Overweight on diversification
PositiveFinancial Markets
JPMorgan has upgraded Jumbo Interactive's stock rating to Overweight, highlighting the company's successful diversification strategy. This move is significant as it reflects confidence in Jumbo's ability to navigate market challenges and capitalize on new opportunities, potentially leading to increased investor interest and stock performance.
Chrysos stock initiated with Buy rating by Goldman Sachs on PhotonAssay growth
PositiveFinancial Markets
Goldman Sachs has initiated coverage of Chrysos Corporation with a 'Buy' rating, highlighting the company's innovative PhotonAssay technology as a key driver for growth. This endorsement is significant as it reflects confidence in Chrysos's potential to revolutionize gold analysis in the mining sector, which could lead to increased investor interest and market performance.