American Express will acquire AI startup Hyper to enhance its expense management tools for commercial clients. The acquisition, expected to close in Q2 2026, follows a partnership that launched a co-branded rewards card in 2024.

Sequoia Capital has raised $7 billion for a new fund under Alfred Lin and Pat Grady, focusing on AI startups like OpenAI and Anthropic. This marks a shift in strategy, allowing investments in competing companies within the same sector.

U.S. authorities are probing the deaths and disappearances of 11 scientists linked to space or nuclear programs. Notable cases include Amy Eskridge and others who died under suspicious circumstances, raising concerns about potential conspiracies.

Upscale AI is seeking to raise $180-$200 million at a $2 billion valuation, focusing on custom chips and networking infrastructure for AI. Investors include Tiger Global and Xora Innovation. CEO Barun Kar has prior experience in internet infrastructure.

Retail investors have returned to the U.S. stock market, driving major indices to record highs amid geopolitical tensions. The S&P 500 surpassed 7,000 points, led by a surge in quantum computing stocks and increased retail activity. However, economic risks remain, including rising oil prices and inflation concerns.

Netflix's Q1 results exceeded expectations with $12.25 billion in revenue, but weaker Q2 guidance led to an 8% stock drop. Co-CEO Greg Peters noted strong early progress, while co-founder Reed Hastings plans to step down in June for philanthropy.

Zhejiang Orient Microelectronics Co., Ltd. has resubmitted its application to list on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. As a leading e-paper display manufacturer, it holds significant market shares and reports strong revenue growth, driven by increasing global demand.

Educator Jiang Xueqin claimed Bitcoin might be linked to U.S. intelligence agencies due to its anonymous creator and technical complexity. Critics countered that Bitcoin's decentralized and open-source nature prevents centralized control.

On April 16, the S&P 500 and Nasdaq reached record highs due to favorable Middle East peace developments and positive economic data, despite mixed corporate earnings results. Market sentiment was cautious but optimistic, with significant movements in various sectors.

Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings will not seek re-election to the board when his term ends in June, marking a significant transition for the company he led. Under his guidance, Netflix evolved into a leading media powerhouse, innovating in streaming and original content. Hastings emphasized his focus on member joy and a lasting culture at Netflix.