Stripe-backed blockchain startup Tempo raises $500 million in funding - Fortune

Tempo, a blockchain startup backed by Stripe, has successfully raised $500 million in a Series A funding round led by Joshua Kushner's Thrive Capital and Greenoaks. This significant investment values the company at an impressive $5 billion, with participation from notable investors like Sequoia and Ribbit. This funding is crucial as it highlights the growing interest and confidence in blockchain technology, positioning Tempo as a key player in the industry.

At the Fortune Most Powerful Women Summit, experts highlighted a concerning trend: women may fall behind in the $124 trillion Great Wealth Transfer due to a 'confidence gap' in financial planning. This issue is significant because it underscores the psychological barriers that hinder women's financial decision-making, potentially impacting their economic futures and wealth accumulation.

The rise of blockchain technology is offering a promising solution to the growing concerns over personal data privacy in the age of AI. As blockchain advances, it provides a way to verify our identities and actions without depending on corporate AI tools that often mishandle our information. This shift is significant because it empowers individuals to take control of their data, ensuring greater security and trust in digital interactions.

Asymmetric Capital Partners has successfully raised $137 million for its second fund, surpassing its initial target of $125 million. This achievement is particularly noteworthy given the challenging investment landscape shaped by zero interest rate policies. The fund's success not only reflects investor confidence in Asymmetric's strategy but also highlights a potential shift in the market, making it a significant development for both the firm and its stakeholders.

Brazilian startup Turbi is making waves in the car rental market by securing a significant investment of 156 million reais ($29 million) from Itau Unibanco. This funding will help Turbi expand its operations domestically and gear up for a potential IPO. This is an exciting development not just for Turbi, but for the Brazilian startup ecosystem, as it highlights the growing interest in innovative business models and the potential for public offerings in the region.

The latest insights into the 100 Best Companies to Work For in Europe reveal the secrets and rituals that make these workplaces stand out. This matters because understanding what drives employee satisfaction can help other companies improve their own work environments, leading to happier employees and better productivity.

At the Fortune's Most Powerful Women conference in Washington, D.C., YouTube executive Tara Walpert Levy emphasized the importance of identifying future CEOs with specific traits for effective succession planning. Her insights highlight how proactive boards can ensure leadership continuity and drive organizational success, making this discussion particularly relevant for companies looking to thrive in a competitive landscape.

Nestlé is set to lay off over 16,000 employees as part of a restructuring initiative under its new CEO, with automation being cited as a key motivator. This move highlights the ongoing trend of companies prioritizing efficiency and technology over human resources, raising concerns about job security in the industry. As automation continues to reshape the workforce, the impact on employees and the economy will be significant.

If you're a book lover, you'll be thrilled to discover some of the best houses for sale that feature stunning libraries. From a charming five-storey Victorian townhouse in Islington, London, to a unique 1920s home in Mere, Wiltshire, complete with a circular library and curved bookshelves, these properties offer not just a place to live but a sanctuary for reading and relaxation. This trend highlights the growing appreciation for home libraries, making these homes particularly appealing to those who value both aesthetics and functionality.

The discussion around Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and Artificial Superintelligence (ASI) is evolving, with some experts suggesting that we may need to transcend human intelligence to create what is termed Alien Artificial Intelligence (AAI). This concept raises intriguing questions about the future of intelligence and its implications for humanity. Understanding AAI could help us navigate the potential risks and benefits of advanced AI systems, making it a crucial topic in today's tech landscape.

Exelixis has announced that its drug cabozantinib significantly reduces the risk of progression in lung and thymic neuroendocrine tumors (NET) by an impressive 81%. This breakthrough is crucial as it offers new hope for patients battling these challenging cancers, potentially improving their quality of life and survival rates. The findings from the clinical trial highlight the importance of innovative treatments in oncology, paving the way for further research and development in cancer therapies.

Experts have reported a concerning decline in birth rates and the number of children living in London, indicating that families are increasingly being priced out of the city. This trend is significant as it highlights the challenges many families face in affording housing in London, which could have long-term implications for the city's demographic and economic landscape.

Recent research suggests that artificial intelligence could play a crucial role in identifying skilled fund managers, especially as the market bubble continues to grow. This development is significant because it could lead to better investment decisions and ultimately enhance returns for investors. By leveraging AI, the financial industry may be able to pinpoint those who consistently deliver fundamental value, making it easier for investors to navigate the complexities of the market.

Venture-capital trusts offer a tax-efficient avenue for investing in early-stage companies, but potential investors are left wondering if the associated risks are worth it. Understanding the balance between potential returns and the inherent risks is crucial for anyone considering this investment option.