Matt Mullenweg deactivates WordPress accounts of key contributors.

In a recent blog post, Mullenweg shared that he had disabled the WordPress.org accounts of a few contributors, such as Joost de Valk and Karim Marucchi. This action was taken due to their supposed intentions to create a fork of WordPress, according to TechCrunch. This decision comes after these contributors expressed interest in spearheading the next WordPress update, particularly after Automattic announced it would be scaling back its support for the open-source project.

Read more on TechCrunch.

SC Halts ₹1 Lakh Crore GST Notices Against Online Gaming Firms Over Tax Fraud


The Supreme Court has put a hold on GST showcase notices totaling over ₹1 lakh crore that were sent to online gaming companies and casinos due to accusations of tax evasion. A bench led by Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan paused the proceedings and has set a date for the next hearing on March 18. A change to the GST law in October 2023 required foreign gaming companies to register in India and imposed a 28% GST on the total value of bets. Companies like Games 24×7 and Head Digital Works have challenged these hefty demands, leading the Supreme Court to take over cases from nine high courts in order to issue a unified decision.

Read more on Presstrustofindia.

Will TikTok Be Banned? Supreme Court to Decide Soon


The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments on a potential TikTok ban unless ByteDance sells its U.S. operations by January 19, 2025. The justices leaned towards national security over free speech. Frank McCourt and Kevin O’Leary proposed buying TikTok’s U.S. assets. If no sale happens, TikTok could be banned from U.S. app stores, affecting its functionality. The outcome might influence future cases involving foreign tech in the U.S.

Read more on CNNBusiness.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai Shares Exciting AI Plans for 2025

Google CEO Sundar Pichai has shared the company’s ambitious plans for AI leading up to 2025. During his reflection on the successes of 2024, he highlighted how crucial AI and technical innovation are in shaping Google’s offerings. Pichai expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming year, underlining the impressive strides made in AI development.

Here are some of the key points from his announcement:
  • Notable achievements in 2024 included Gemini 2.0, Willow, and Veo 2.
  • There were significant advancements made across various Google platforms, including Search, YouTube, Cloud, Android, and Pixel.
  • Exciting new AI products and features are expected to be launched in the next few months.
  • Google’s comprehensive approach continues to position it at the forefront of technical and AI leadership.

Read more on livemint.

Does Jagdeep Singh, QuantumScape’s ex-CEO, earn ₹48 crore daily?

Recent claims circulating online about Jagdeep Singh, the former CEO of QuantumScape, allegedly making ₹48 crore a day are completely inaccurate, as confirmed by official company records. A report from DNA India reveals that Singh stepped down from his CEO position in February 2024, giving up all compensation and forfeiting his stock options from the 2021 award program. His 2023 bonus in company shares was the final payout he received before moving to the role of Chairman of the Board.

SEC filings and statements from QuantumScape clarify that Singh is no longer part of any typical compensation plans. Dr. Siva Sivaram took over as CEO on February 15, 2024.

In conclusion, verified documents disprove these viral claims, confirming that Singh does not earn Rs 48 crore a day.

Read more on DNA India.

From Building Loom to a $975 Million Exit: Vinay Hiremath’s Journey to Self-Discovery

Vinay Hiremath, co-founder of Loom, sold his startup to Atlassian for $975 million. Post-sale, he felt directionless and declined a $60 million CTO position at Atlassian.
In his blog, “I am rich and I have no idea what to do with my life,” Hiremath discussed his search for purpose:

  • Robotics: Engaged with the industry but found his interest superficial.
  • Personal Relationships: He traveled with his girlfriend, but their relationship ended due to his insecurities.
  • Physical Challenges: Climbed a Himalayan peak to reconnect with his inner strength.
  • DOGE Project: Joined but realized it wasn’t fulfilling.

Now in Hawaii, Hiremath is studying physics, contemplating a future company focused on tangible products, valuing learning over end goals. His experiences underline the pursuit of personal fulfillment beyond financial success.

Read more on startupstorymedia.