Nasdaq Composite Index hits a new all-time high on Monday 20th May 2024

Nasdaq all-time high

The Nasdaq is a stock market index predominantly comprising technology and internet-related companies. Investors and traders closely monitor its performance as it serves as a barometer for the technological sector’s robustness and the general market mood.

Nasdaq all-time high

The Nasdaq Composite surpassed its previous highest value, marking a significant milestone in its history.

Contributing factors

Tech success

The surge was propelled by robust performances from leading tech companies like Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, and Alphabet (Google).

Economic optimism

Positive economic data, the lingering promise of interest rate cuts, and optimism about future growth contributed to investor confidence.

Market sentiment

The all-time high indicates a positive sentiment in the stock market; however, it is crucial to keep an eye on current trends and potential corrections.

Note

Keep in mind that stock markets are subject to volatility, with prices capable of swift fluctuations. It’s crucial for investors to proceed with caution and take into account their individual risk tolerance before making any investment choices.

If in doubt – do nowt!

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Microsoft announces new PCs with AI chips

AI art

Microsoft is promoting new computers equipped with advanced chips, engineered to operate the new artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities embedded in the Windows operating system.

On Monday 20th May 2024, Microsoft unveiled a Surface Laptop and a Surface Pro tablet, both featuring a Qualcomm chip capable of executing AI tasks both online and offline.

The new Microsoft Copilot+ PCs feature chips designed by ARM and are powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chips, which are also based on ARM architecture. These Snapdragon-powered PCs represent the initial series of devices under the Copilot+ PC brand, introducing over 20 models from various manufacturers, such as Acer.

The partnership between Microsoft, Qualcomm, and PC manufacturers is focused on providing superior processing and quick response times, with these ARM-based chips being integral to the new AI designs.

In addition, manufacturers like Lenovo, Dell, HP, Asus, Acer, and Samsung are launching AI-ready PCs featuring Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus processors. These processors offer extended battery life and compatibility with Microsoft’s Copilot AI chatbot.

Microsoft’s powerful AI vision – some tech information

Windows PCs designed for AI, known as Copilot+ PCs, are fitted with new, powerful chips capable of an astounding 40+ TOPS, ensuring all-day battery life and access to cutting-edge AI models.

Promoted as the fastest and most intelligent Windows PCs ever created, they boast features like Recall, Cocreator, and Live Captions, which can translate audio from over 40 languages into English.

These devices include sleek, lightweight, and elegantly designed models from Microsoft Surface and OEM partners such as Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung. Pre-orders are now open, with availability starting on June 18 and prices reportedly beginning at $999. This represents a major shift in the Windows platform, placing AI at the forefront of PC architecture.

This progress is a big part of Microsoft’s wider initiative to drive AI innovation onto devices, enhancing the AI capabilities that are already present in the cloud through Copilot.

This is a massive development in the deployment of AI to the masses.