Amazon has shut down its Amazon Fresh supermarket in Richmond, UK, just three years after launch. The tech giant cited poor sales performance as the key reason for the closure.

The Richmond store was one of Amazon’s key pilot locations for its cashierless “Just Walk Out” technology. However, it struggled to gain traction in the competitive grocery market.

Industry analysts say this move reflects Amazon’s broader challenges in disrupting traditional retail. The company is now rethinking its offline retail strategy after investing heavily in physical store formats.

Australia’s Budget Sparks Tech Sector Backlash

In Australia, the federal budget has come under fire for prioritizing panda funding over technology investment. Critics noted that Adelaide Zoo’s Giant Panda Program received more support than national efforts in artificial intelligence and tech startups.

Tech entrepreneurs warned that the government’s lack of vision could hinder innovation and stall the growth of homegrown businesses. They called for urgent reforms to create a more supportive ecosystem for emerging technologies.

Microsoft Expands Copilot with Deep Research Tools

Microsoft has rolled out advanced AI research tools into its Copilot platform. These tools help users generate insights, perform data analysis, and accelerate decision-making.

The updates target professionals and businesses looking for faster, more reliable AI support. This move strengthens Microsoft’s position in the competitive enterprise AI space, as rivals like Google and OpenAI continue to advance their offerings.

Bitcoin Surges Past $88,000 as GameStop Invests in Crypto

Bitcoin hit a new high of over $88,000 today after GameStop announced it had invested part of its treasury into the digital asset. The move sparked a wider rally in the crypto market.

Ethereum, Solana, and Cardano also saw gains. GameStop’s action signals growing confidence among publicly listed companies in using crypto as a financial asset.

This wave of interest is driving optimism that other corporates may soon follow suit, reinforcing Bitcoin’s status as a store of value.

Trump-Backed Venture to Launch USD1 Stablecoin

World Liberty Financial, a crypto firm backed by Donald Trump and his family, plans to launch a new stablecoin called USD1. The coin will be fully backed by U.S. treasuries and dollars, offering a “safe and patriotic” crypto alternative.

According to sources, the stablecoin will target cross-border transactions and appeal to conservative investors seeking a U.S.-aligned digital currency.

Experts say this development could reshape the regulatory debate on crypto in the United States, especially ahead of the 2025 presidential elections.

Trump Media Partners with Crypto.com to Launch ETFs

Trump Media & Technology Group is teaming up with Crypto.com to introduce U.S.-based exchange-traded funds (ETFs) focused on digital assets.

The ETFs will promote American innovation in blockchain and digital finance. The project aligns with Trump’s pro-crypto stance and his promise to make the U.S. a global leader in the crypto space.

The initiative adds to Trump’s growing influence in the blockchain industry and reflects a strategic move to attract both financial and political capital.