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Databricks in talks for new funding round at $130b valuation

TCN Bureau
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Databricks in talks for new funding round at $130b valuation
  • Intends to use new funding to accelerate its AI strategy, expand its product suite, launch a new category of operational databases, and pursue further AI-related acquisitions and research.

Data analytics and artificial intelligence leader Databricks is in discussions to raise fresh capital at a valuation reportedly exceeding $130 billion, according to a report by The Information, citing sources familiar with the talks.

This would represent a 30 per cent higher than its last financing round two months ago at a $100 billion valuation.

The company, which declined to comment on the funding discussions, has not yet signed a formal term sheet with any investors, according to the report.

Surging demand

Founded in 2013, Databricks provides platforms for data integration, analysis, and AI application building, serving approximately 15,000 customers globally—including major firms such as Block, Shell, and Rivian. Databricks is widely regarded as an IPO candidate and has attracted significant investor interest in recent quarters.

In September, the San Francisco-based firm revealed it was on track to reach $4 billion in annualised revenue, fueled by surging demand for its AI-driven offerings. Databricks intends to use new funding to accelerate its AI strategy, expand its product suite, launch a new category of operational databases, and pursue further AI-related acquisitions and research.

The reported fundraising talks highlight Databricks’ continued momentum as it seeks to consolidate its role as a dominant force in the global AI and data analytics industry.

Civil aviation contributes about 18% to UAE’s GDP

Ana Mary Joseph
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Civil aviation contributes about 18% to UAE’s GDP

The Dubai Airshow has cemented its status as a premier global platform for advancing trends and innovations in aviation, space, and defence, underscored by the remarks of Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

Addressing industry leaders at the 19th edition of the Dubai Airshow—held under the theme “The Future Starts Here”—Bin Touq emphasised the sector’s pivotal role in the nation’s economy.

“Civil aviation is a cornerstone of the UAE’s future economic growth,” Bin Touq said. He highlighted that the sector currently accounts for about 18 per cent of the UAE’s GDP, driven by robust contributions from national airlines, airports, logistics, and tourism.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan shakes hands with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai at the 19th edition of the Dubai Airshow, currently taking place at Dubai World Central under the theme ‘The Future is Here’. The event runs until 21st November.

Ongoing investments in advanced technologies—from electric aircraft to sustainable systems and advanced air mobility—are expected to further spur industry growth and global competitiveness.

This year’s Airshow gathers over 1,500 exhibitors from 115 countries and aims to promote international collaboration and knowledge-sharing to support a more innovative and resilient aviation sector.

A strategic arena

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, noted that the event serves as a strategic arena for forging new cooperation agreements and fostering partnerships focused on safety, innovation, advanced air mobility, and sustainability.

The UAE’s leadership in international aviation, particularly within bodies like the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), remains central to promoting global green aviation and best regulatory practices.

The GCAA’s agenda at the Airshow includes signing international agreements in civil aviation and air navigation, as well as hosting bilateral meetings with delegations and companies to discuss future partnership opportunities.

The Authority’s pavilion showcases projects on human capital development, air accident investigation, and the adoption of advanced technological solutions—all core to the UAE’s ambition to enhance its global aviation ecosystem.

Rostec showcases advanced defence technologies at Dubai Airshow

Ana Mary Joseph
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Rostec showcases advanced defence technologies at Dubai Airshow
  • Rosoboronexport, a Rostec subsidiary, has secured over 30,000 contracts totaling more than $230b, with a record $60b current order book.

Rostec State Corporation, Russia’s leading defence and aerospace holding, spotlights a broad array of advanced military and civilian technologies at this year’s Dubai Airshow, with CEO Sergey Chemezov emphasising the event’s significance as a premier platform for international engagement and innovation.

“This exhibition offers an unparalleled opportunity to present Russian advancements to a global audience of specialists and decision-makers,” Chemezov said. He highlighted the successful foreign debut of the MC-21 passenger aircraft in Dubai, noting its transition to exclusive Russian production as it enters large-scale manufacturing.

Technological premieres and live demonstrations

At the 2025 Airshow, Rostec is unveiling several new systems:

  • Upgraded Yak-130 jet trainer and combat aircraft
  • Ansat light multipurpose helicopter with VK-650 engines
  • The fifth-generation Su-57 fighter jet, which Chemezov described as battle-proven in stealth and firepower, will perform aerial demonstrations led by renowned test pilot Sergey Bogdan.

Additional displays include the Ka-52 attack helicopter, the latest Il-76 heavy transport, the Ka-32 firefighting helicopter, and the Pantsir-SMD-E air defense system. The Ka-52 and Russian Knights aerobatic team—flying Su-30 and Su-35 fighters—will feature in aerial displays, underscoring the operational capabilities of Russian hardware.

International exports and partnerships

Chemezov noted that exporting advanced Russian technologies is pivotal to Russia’s economy and global standing. Since its founding, Rosoboronexport (a Rostec subsidiary) has secured over 30,000 contracts totaling more than $230 billion, with a record $60 billion current order book. Russian products are now fielded in over 120 countries.

The Middle East remains a key market, accounting for almost half of Rosoboronexport’s annual contracts. Regional clients seek Russian air defense systems, aircraft, helicopters, armoured vehicles, UAVs, and simulators. Chemezov underscored the evolution of cooperation toward tech transfer and establishing local production facilities.

Real-world testing

Stressing the reliability and operational efficiency of Russian systems, Chemezov stated, “Our equipment contains no hidden backdoors and cannot be remotely disabled—a crucial assurance for partners.”

He emphasised that Russian solutions are validated in actual combat, not just laboratory tests, which is particularly valued by Middle Eastern clients.

The upgraded Pantsir-SMD-E, adapted for combating UAV threats with 48 mini-missiles, exemplifies this combat-oriented innovation. Russian defense hardware such as Pantsir, Kornet, Solntsepyok, and a range of armored vehicles are consistently praised in the region for their effectiveness and adaptability.

Chemezov concluded by reaffirming Rostec’s long-term strategy to maintain Russia’s position as the world’s second-largest arms exporter and to meet growing demand with robust production and innovative technology.

UK Twitter hacker ordered to repay $5.4m in Bitcoin after 2020 account breach

Naushad K. Cherrayil
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UK Twitter hacker ordered to repay $5.4m in Bitcoin after 2020 account breach
  • Cyberattack compromised accounts of high-profile figures such as former US President Barack Obama, President Joe Biden, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, and several other celebrities and business leaders.

British prosecutors have secured a civil recovery order against Joseph James O’Connor, requiring the 26-year-old to repay £4.1 million ($5.4 million) in Bitcoin and other crypto assets gained through his involvement in the infamous 2020 Twitter hack.

The cyberattack notably compromised the accounts of high-profile figures such as former US President Barack Obama, President Joe Biden (then the Democratic candidate), Tesla CEO Elon Musk, and several other celebrities and business leaders.

O’Connor, who was arrested in Spain in 2021 and later extradited to the United States, pleaded guilty to several charges—including computer intrusion, wire fraud, and extortion—and was sentenced to five years in prison in 2023.

The July 2020 breach led to the hijacking of prominent Twitter (now known as X) accounts to promote a cryptocurrency scam, which solicited digital currency and issued threats to celebrities.

Crypto assets to be liquidated

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) announced that 42 Bitcoin and additional crypto assets linked to the scam will be seized and liquidated by a court-appointed trustee. The civil recovery order, granted last week, follows a previous property freezing order obtained during extradition proceedings.

Adrian Foster, chief crown prosecutor, emphasised that the UK authorities leveraged all available powers to ensure “they do not benefit from their criminality,” even if the conviction occurred outside Britain.

The 2020 incident forced X (then Twitter) to temporarily restrict access to all verified accounts, highlighting critical vulnerabilities at the social media giant and prompting a reevaluation of its security protocols.

Apple to reshape its iPhones launch cycle strategy

Mohammed Fahad
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Apple to reshape its iPhones launch cycle strategy
  • Crowded autumn launches have strained Apple’s marketing, engineering, and supply chain operations
  • Apple is expected to unveil its flagship iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the much-anticipated foldable iPhone in autumn 2026.
  • The remainder of the iPhone 18 series—including the standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and an all-new iPhone Air—will debut approximately six months later.

In a strategic shift reminiscent of its early days, Apple Inc. is revisiting its iPhone launch calendar after nearly fifteen years of autumn unveilings.

The tech giant is moving toward a staggered release schedule for its flagship product, aiming to relieve pressure on its internal teams and suppliers, and to boost revenue consistency throughout the year.

Historically, Apple launched its new iPhones during the summer months, before switching to September releases in 2011—a move that capitalised on back-to-school and holiday shopping seasons.

However, with the company now announcing multiple devices each autumn, including the recent “Awe Dropping” showcase of the iPhone 17 lineup, new AirPods 3 Pro, and Apple Watches, executives are reconsidering the merits of a once-a-year product blitz.

New standard

Industry sources highlight that the crowded autumn launches have strained Apple’s marketing, engineering, and supply chain operations. The new approach aims to ease these bottlenecks by spreading hardware debuts across more of the fiscal year.

Looking ahead, Apple is expected to unveil its flagship iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the much-anticipated foldable iPhone in autumn 2026. Notably, the remainder of the iPhone 18 series—including the standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and an all-new iPhone Air—will debut approximately six months later.

Analysts expect this staggered strategy to become the new standard in Apple’s product roadmap.

The company is reportedly delaying the next iPhone Air due to weaker-than-expected demand, signaling a more careful rollout for non-core models. Meanwhile, Apple continues investing in innovation, with upcoming iPhones set to feature new satellite-enabled capabilities as part of a broader focus on enhanced connectivity and user experience.

While rivals such as Samsung and Google race to integrate advanced AI features into their devices, Apple’s renewed focus on delivering innovative iPhone variants signals its intent to retain its lead in the premium smartphone market—even as it adapts to shifting consumer expectations and operational realities

Amazon launches $15b bond sale to fund AI infrastructure growth

Ana Mary Joseph
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Amazon launches $15b bond sale to fund AI infrastructure growth
  • Proceeds from the offering may be used for a range of corporate purposes, including acquisitions, capital expenditures, and share buybacks.

Amazon is set to raise $15 billion through its first US dollar bond offering in three years, as the tech giant ramps up investments in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure.

The multi-part bond deal, disclosed in a Securities and Exchange Commission filing on Monday, is part of a growing trend among major technology companies turning to debt markets to finance large-scale expansions.

Investor demand for Amazon’s bond peaked at approximately $80 billion, underscoring robust appetite for tech-related debt. Notably, the yield spread on the 40-year tranche narrowed significantly, reflecting strong investor confidence.

Amazon’s capital expenditure to rise

Proceeds from the offering may be used for a range of corporate purposes, including acquisitions, capital expenditures, and share buybacks.

The move follows similar financing strategies by other industry leaders. Last month, Meta Platforms launched it’s largest-ever bond sale, targeting up to $30 billion, while Oracle is reportedly planning a $15 billion bond issuance.

Analysts at Morgan Stanley estimate that leading tech firms—including Amazon, Meta, and Alphabet—are on track to spend as much as $400 billion this year alone on AI infrastructure.

Amazon’s capital expenditures are projected to reach about $125 billion in 2025, with expectations for further increases next year.

The company recently inked a $38 billion partnership with OpenAI, a move that significantly bolsters its cloud business amid intensifying competition from Microsoft and Google.

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