Tech News
LAST UPDATE: May 30, 2025
Germany seeks to levy 10% tax on online platforms like Google
Germany is proposing a 10% tax on large online platforms such as Google and Facebook, targeting what it describes as “cunning tax evasion” by these companies.
Insight
This initiative places Germany among several countries seeking to ensure that digital giants contribute fairly to national revenues. The proposed tax aims to address concerns over the disproportionate influence and minimal tax contributions of these companies. However, the move could escalate trade tensions with the United States, which has previously opposed such digital services taxes. The proposal also reflects broader debates about the regulation of digital economies and the challenges of taxing multinational corporations effectively. The outcome will likely influence international discussions on digital taxation frameworks.
Bitcoin Price Falls. Why Another Crypto Is Leading the Way Instead
Bitcoin’s price declined by 0.3% to $108,588, while Ethereum surged by 3.4% to $2,732, driven by increased decentralized finance activity and institutional interest.
Insight
The contrasting performances of Bitcoin and Ethereum highlight the evolving dynamics within the cryptocurrency market. Ethereum’s gains suggest a growing investor focus on blockchain platforms that support decentralized applications and smart contracts. Institutional adoption and initiatives like strategic reserves by companies such as SharpLink indicate a maturation of the crypto ecosystem. Meanwhile, Bitcoin’s modest decline reflects broader market uncertainties and potential profit-taking after recent highs. These trends underscore the importance of technological utility and real-world applications in determining the value and resilience of digital assets.
DeepSeek Says Upgraded Model Reasons Better, Hallucinates Less
Chinese AI startup DeepSeek has released an upgraded version of its R1 model, named DeepSeek-R1-0528, featuring enhanced capabilities in mathematics, programming, and general logic, while significantly reducing AI-generated misinformation or “hallucinations.”
Insight
DeepSeek’s latest model, R1-0528, represents a notable advancement in China’s AI capabilities, positioning the company as a formidable competitor to industry leaders like OpenAI and Google. The model’s improvements in reasoning and reduction of hallucinations address critical challenges in AI reliability, enhancing its applicability in various sectors. By releasing the model on the AI platform Hugging Face, DeepSeek demonstrates a commitment to transparency and collaboration within the AI community. This development underscores China’s rapid progress in AI technology and its growing influence in the global AI race. The timing of the release highlights the intensifying competition among nations to achieve leadership in AI innovation.
