Tech News
LAST UPDATE: July 4, 2025
Code of practice to help companies with AI rules may come end 2025, EU says
The European Commission will delay its non-binding Code of Practice on AI Act compliance—affecting firms like OpenAI and Google—until late 2025. Originally expected by May, the guidance will help align with Europe’s strict AI rules.
Insight
The delay leaves companies navigating a legal grey zone, particularly U.S.-based AI developers operating in Europe. It reflects the challenge of regulating fast-evolving technology while avoiding stifling innovation.
BOE’s Bailey Warns Stablecoins Threaten Public Trust in Money
BoE Governor Andrew Bailey warned that stablecoins could erode public confidence in central bank money unless tightly regulated and asset-backed.
Insight
The BoE’s stance highlights a regulatory divide: as private digital currencies expand, central banks stress the risks to monetary sovereignty. UK is signaling tougher rules ahead.
Stablecoins might revolutionise payments, but what if they don’t?
The Financial Times explores both the promise and pitfalls of stablecoins as a future payments solution, noting hurdles including scalability, adoption, and regulation.
Insight
While stablecoins could reshape payments, their success is far from certain. Regulatory acceptance and user trust will be key to moving beyond speculative hype into functional currency alternatives.
The Grammys Chief on How AI Will Change Music
Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. said AI can be a creative partner in music production, but stressed the need for rules to preserve artistic integrity.
Insight
The Grammys’ evolving stance reflects growing industry acceptance of AI tools, tempered by fears of copyright erosion and content authenticity. U.S. policymakers may follow with cultural safeguards.
Chip Design Software Makers Win US Reprieve in China Trade Deal
The U.S. has lifted export restrictions on EDA (Electronic Design Automation) tools used for chip design, allowing companies like Synopsys, Cadence, and Siemens to resume access to China. Shares of Synopsys and Cadence rose ~6% and ~5%. The move occurred alongside eased restrictions on ethane exports and follows a framework agreement on rare-earth minerals. (reuters.com, facebook.com)
Insight
This represents a diplomatic de-escalation of tech tensions: while strategic national-security controls remain (e.g., Nvidia, ASML), the relief for chip-design tools signals pragmatic compromise, vital for semiconductor supply chains and global tech stability.
The Great Bitcoin Power Shift Has Large Holders Dumping 500,000 Coins
Major Bitcoin “whales” — including early miners, funds, and anonymous wallets — have sold over 500,000 BTC. Meanwhile, institutional investors, such as ETFs, are buying most of that volume, stabilizing Bitcoin prices around $110K and reducing volatility.
Insight
This signals a shift: Bitcoin ownership is decentralizing, moving from concentrated holders to institutional investors. This transition could bring increased market maturity, liquidity, and reduced price swings, as well as greater regulatory attention.
