Link: The AI talent wars are just getting started

As we wrap up the year, my final newsletter will delve into the fierce AI talent war, a topic I've been tracking since the inception of this publication nearly two years ago. Stay tuned for insights from Google and Meta, and don’t miss a chance to submit questions for a special mailbag issue planned for early 2025.

This week, Databricks announced a record-breaking $10 billion funding round, primarily aimed at facilitating stock liquidity for its employees. This move highlights how strategic compensation is crucial in securing top talent in the competitive tech landscape.

I had an enlightening conversation with Naveen Rao, VP of AI at Databricks, who shared insights into the funding's rationale and the ongoing scarcity of elite AI talent. The struggle for superior AI capabilities is akin to searching for the LeBron James of technology, signifying the exceptional leverage such individuals hold within the industry.

Rao dismissed the imminent arrival of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), despite the buzz around large language models. He suggested that while enhancements like the test-time compute are beneficial, they won't solve the fundamental challenges of AGI.

Elsewhere in tech, Google's workforce has seen a reduction in upper management layers, while Meta plans to cut back on perks like free EV charging. These actions reflect ongoing adjustments as companies strive to optimize operations amidst economic pressures.

Keep an eye on developments from OpenAI and TikTok's legal battles, along with shifts in leadership and policy that could reshape the tech industry's landscape. Your feedback and tips are invaluable, and I look forward to engaging with you as we navigate these dynamic times. #

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Yoooo, this is a quick note on a link that made me go, WTF? Find all past links here.