Alphabet's X is increasingly spinning out independent companies via a dedicated Series X Capital fund, which has raised $500M+ with a minority Alphabet stake (Connie Loizos/TechCrunch)

Pine Labs, an Indian digital payments company, has priced its IPO between $2 to $2.5 per share, resulting in a valuation of $2.9 billion at the upper end. This marks a significant drop from its previous valuation of $5 billion in 2022. The reduced valuation reflects the challenges faced by the fintech sector and highlights the shifting landscape of digital payments in India. As Pine Labs aims to expand globally, this IPO could be a crucial step, but the lower valuation raises concerns about investor confidence and market conditions.

TikTok is making waves by announcing its first-ever TikTok Awards show in the US, set to take place on December 18. This live event will be streamed on the TikTok app and Tubi, marking a significant milestone for the platform as it celebrates its creators and content. The awards show not only highlights the growing influence of TikTok in the entertainment industry but also offers a unique opportunity for fans to engage with their favorite creators in real-time.

VentureBeat is excited to welcome Karyne Levy as its new Managing Editor, starting today. Karyne brings a wealth of experience from her previous role at TechCrunch and has held significant positions at notable outlets like Protocol and NerdWallet. Her extensive background in tech journalism will undoubtedly enhance VentureBeat's leadership and content quality, making this a significant step forward for the publication.

Alphabet Inc. is making a significant move by selling at least €3 billion in bonds to finance its ambitious expansion in artificial intelligence and cloud infrastructure. This is their second foray into Europe's debt market this year, highlighting their commitment to investing in cutting-edge technology. This funding is crucial as it not only supports Alphabet's growth but also signals confidence in the future of AI and cloud services, which are becoming increasingly vital in today's digital economy.

Alphabet is taking a bold step by launching its 'moonshot' projects as independent companies, which reflects its commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship. This strategy not only allows for greater focus and resources on groundbreaking ideas but also ensures that employees have a vested interest in the success of these ventures. By fostering a culture of independence, Alphabet is positioning itself to lead in transformative technologies that could shape the future.

Google has decided to remove its AI model Gemma from AI Studio after Senator Blackburn accused it of fabricating sexual misconduct allegations against her. This incident raises significant concerns about the reliability and ethical implications of AI technologies, especially as they become more integrated into our daily lives. The senator's claims highlight the potential for AI to cause real harm through misinformation, prompting a broader discussion on accountability in AI development.

TechCrunch Mobility is back with exciting updates from TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, where industry leaders gathered to discuss the future of transportation. This event is crucial as it showcases innovative ideas and technologies that could shape how we move in the coming years, making it a must-follow for anyone interested in the evolution of mobility.

Google Cloud has emerged as one of Alphabet's fastest-growing sectors, largely due to strategic investments in artificial intelligence, data centers, and custom chips under the leadership of Thomas Kurian. This growth is significant as it showcases how tech companies can pivot and innovate in response to market demands, positioning Google Cloud as a key player in the competitive cloud services landscape.

The rise of generative AI is raising concerns about its impact on traditional holiday experiences, particularly Christmas. Critics argue that AI-generated content could overshadow genuine human creativity and diminish the joy of the season. This matters because it highlights the tension between technological advancement and preserving cherished cultural traditions, prompting a broader discussion about the role of AI in our lives.

The article highlights the shared legacy of artistry and precision between analog IC engineers and Craftsman homebuilders, showcasing how both fields emphasize meticulous design and craftsmanship. This connection is significant as it illustrates the importance of skilled labor and attention to detail in creating lasting and impactful products, whether in technology or architecture.

Keeping your desktop PC clean is essential for its longevity and performance. Experts emphasize that regular maintenance can prevent issues and ensure your computer runs smoothly for years. Simple cleaning techniques can make a significant difference, helping you avoid costly repairs and enhancing your overall tech experience.

The recent launch of the Trinity Protocol v3.1 marks a significant advancement in blockchain technology with its innovative 2-of-3 multi-chain consensus system. Successfully deployed across Arbitrum, Solana, and TON, this system achieved its first consensus with real transactions on November 3, 2025. This development is crucial as it enhances the reliability and security of cross-chain transactions, making blockchain applications more robust and trustworthy.

Facebook Dating has surprisingly gained over 21 million daily users since its launch in 2019, outpacing Hinge's approximately 15 million. This growth highlights Facebook's successful reinvention as it adapts to changing social dynamics and user preferences. The platform's ability to attract such a large user base indicates its effectiveness in connecting people, making it a significant player in the online dating landscape.

This year's Hacktoberfest proved challenging for many, including myself, as I struggled to complete the required contributions. Despite the difficulty, I found value in curating a project and reviewing others' submissions, which highlights the collaborative spirit of open-source development. This experience matters because it emphasizes the importance of community engagement and support in tech, even when personal goals aren't met.