AI ASSISTANT
AI Can Measure How ESG Really Impacts the Bottom Line
Advances in large language models are making rigorous sustainability analysis dramatically faster and cheaper, allowing investors and other stakeholders to connect companies’ disclosed environmental and social risks directly to financialperformance in a matter of hours rather than weeks. Applying a simple methodology to ExxonMobil, the authors used AI to map sustainability-related issues to specific financial statement line items and estimate their impact on earnings and value, demonstrating both the promise and the limitations of AI-assisted analysis. As these capabilities become widely accessible, the competitive advantage long held by ESG ratings agencies, standard setters, and sustainable fund managers may erode, shifting attention from proprietary scores toward transparent assumptions and financial consequences. Human judgment remains essential to validate AI-generated outputs, but the broader trend is clear: sustainability analysis is becoming more democratized, financially grounded, and adaptable, with significant implications for how investors, regulators, and other institutions assess corporate performance and value creation.
Donald Trump was reportedly briefed a year ago that a suspected Chinese spy was close to Nvidia's CEO, but why was Jensen Huang never told?
According to media reports, US intelligence believes Alice Huang was recruited by China's Ministry of State Security (MSS). Alice had developed a close professional relationship with Jensen through her work in the AI and data centre industry. Their alleged relationship attracted intelligence attention because Nvidia's technology is central to the US-China competition over artificial intelligence.
From TV journalist to private banker to AI chip executive: The unusual career of Alice Huang, the alleged spy linked to Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang
Alice Huang, also known as Huang Le, is a Chinese citizen whose reported career spans TV journalism, banking, investment management and AI infrastructure. She became the subject of US intelligence scrutiny because of her reported connections with Huang and her position in the AI computing industry. US intelligence officials reportedly suspected that she was gathering information about Nvidia and its advanced AI chips.
Amazon rolls out text-based shopping through Alexa
Amazon said the new text feature lets users research and compare products, track deals and price drops, and have Alexa for Shopping complete purchases on their behalf.
Cashfree opens checkout to AI agents, leaves final say with shoppers
Cashfree has introduced Checkout for Agents, allowing AI agents to assist with online payments. This feature utilises WebMCP technology to simplify the checkout process for AI shopping assistants. Customers still maintain control over final payment authorisation and sensitive information is protected. While AI agents currently represent less than 1% of checkout traffic, Cashfree aims to enhance their efficiency. The company limits agent access to sensitive payment steps to ensure security.
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Apple opens Siri AI to all developers: Here’s what you need to know
Apple has launched a Developer Preview of Siri AI for developers across multiple operating systems. This integration facilitates enhanced user interactions, allowing apps to utilize features like App Intents for task management and app skills for managing complex tasks. However, Siri AI remains unavailable in the European Union due to regulatory obligations, and its usage is restricted to individuals over 13 years old.
Google Pixel 11 Pro XL review: Google's most complete Pixel yet, but can it win over iPhone users?
Google Pixel 11 Pro XL is Google's most complete flagship yet, with a premium design, excellent display, reliable battery life and improved cameras. While its Tensor G6 processor trails Apple's latest iPhone in raw performance, its smooth software, seven years of updates and better video recording make it a compelling Android alternative. Priced at ₹1,34,999, it is particularly appealing to iPhone users considering a switch.
Carl Pei teases Nothing’s first AI-native product; says it 'couldn't have been an app'
Nothing will launch its first AI-native product in December with a focus on productivity. The chief executive, Carl Pei, provided limited details about the product’s functions. It is suggested that the product may help users capture conversations and take notes. Other companies are also exploring wearable AI devices that focus on companionship or productivity.
AI sharpens cat-and-mouse hacking battle as companies strengthen defences
From hacked supermarket fridges and a record cryptocurrency theft at Binance to an emergency over flaws in widely used web software, companies worldwide are facing a wave of cyber threats executives say AI is accelerating
Figma banking on AI credits, in-house model to lift margins
Figma is leaning on cashing in on its AI features through credits and using its first-party model to power tasks on its design software platform to bolster its margins, finance chief Praveer Melwani told Reuters on Wednesday.
AI-based cyber threat executing unauthorised fund transfers from banking firms: Cert-In
The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (Cert-In) has named the incident "Crafty Falcon", which uses publicly available AI tools to execute complete attack chains autonomously at machine speed and generate and refine large numbers of tailored attack scripts in rapid succession.
Our operating leverage is kicking in: Peyush Bansal after Lenskart's 21% Q2 revenue rise
Bansal also spoke about the scope for Lenskart’s growth in India and overseas, the push towards premium products and the company’s long-term profitability ambitions.
AI shopping agents could threaten Amazon and Walmart's ad business
Retail powerhouses Walmart and Amazon are also the world's two largest retail media businesses, dominating the estimated $74.4 billion in US retail media spending with a combined 88% share of that market, according to projections from data firm Emarketer. But digital assistants could soon disrupt that business.
TIME’s Best Inventions of 2026: This wheelchair drives like a self-driving car, with sensors, voice commands, and collision avoidance
The Strutt ev¹ stands out as a revolutionary invention, featuring an intelligent co-pilot navigation system that empowers users with unmatched independence. This electric wheelchair operates autonomously and adapts to diverse settings. Equipped with state-of-the-art robotics, sensors, and voice-activated controls, it offers unparalleled accessibility. Priced at $7,499, the Strutt ev¹ is available online, complemented by a test drive option.
Digital recruitment is creating a new cybersecurity risk for employers
Online hiring has made it easier for companies to reach candidates across locations, but it has also exposed recruitment processes to identity fraud, manipulated assessments and misuse of personal information. HR teams are increasingly responsible for protecting the integrity and security of the hiring process.
'India is bigger than US for ChatGPT': OpenAI's Sam Altman says Americans are negative about AI, Indians unusually positive
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has revealed that India has more ChatGPT users than the US, making it the company's biggest market by users. Speaking to Raj Shamani, he praised India's growing AI adoption and said Americans were unusually negative about AI compared with the rest of the world.
How Students Can Use AI to Study Smarter Without Letting AI Do the Thinking for Them
Join the Winter Cohort of the AI Bootcamp for Students by Times of India, where learners will harness cutting-edge AI tools like Claude, Gemini, and NotebookLM. This program aims to transform education by empowering students to explore difficult concepts and craft customized learning materials. Participants will also learn to sharpen their questioning abilities, design interactive review content, and strengthen their overall study habits.
India’s professionals keen to sharpen AI skills, see productivity gains
Nearly 97% of Indian professionals are willing to develop their AI skills, while 88% expect the technology to improve productivity and efficiency, according to Michael Page India’s Candidate Pulse Report 2026, based on a survey of 3,401 professionals across 11 APAC markets, including 2,550 in India.
UK cyber chief says the UK will face AI cyberattacks on critical infrastructure by 2028
The UK's National Cyber Security Center warns of potential AI-driven cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure by 2028. Increased sophistication in cyber activities from states like China and Russia poses significant risks. Past incidents highlight vulnerabilities in key sectors such as manufacturing and energy. Organizations must invest in cybersecurity measures to protect against these emerging threats. Failure to act could jeopardize essential services and compromise national security.
Instinct's WhatsApp scare: Glitch that cried wolf
The incident has also brought attention to Meta’s restrictions on competing AI assistants and the challenges facing companies building personal AI agents. Tanya Pandey explains what happened and why it matters.
HCLTech launches AI agents to automate enterprise mainframe operations
HCLTech has introduced an innovative AI-driven operations solution designed to help companies upgrade their mainframe systems. This advanced offering focuses on boosting operational efficiency and meeting the urgent need for modernization. By combining cutting-edge AI agents with professional human oversight, HCLTech aims to optimize the management of vital systems, embodying a forward-thinking strategy for operational intelligence and system management.
India’s small companies need to see AI as more than an artificial promise
India MSME news: India's micro, small and medium enterprises are exploring the adoption of artificial intelligence to enhance productivity. AI is expected to generate significant economic value for these enterprises in manufacturing and services sectors. Various challenges remain regarding the integration of AI into existing workflows and overcoming cost barriers. Collaborative efforts among industry bodies, technology providers, and the government are essential for facilitating this transition.
AI search gains 3-fold influence over traditional search in shopping decisions: McKinsey
McKinsey's survey, conducted in June 2026, covered around 21,000 consumers across 11 markets. It found that 56 per cent of consumers had used standalone AI chat or search tools for shopping in the previous three months, compared with 27 per cent who had used AI shopping assistants operated by retailers.
Millennials lead AI shopping adoption in India at 84%, ahead of Gen Z: McKinsey
In India, Millennials are leading the adoption of artificial intelligence for shopping, with 84 percent using AI tools. Gen Z follows closely at 74 percent, showcasing a growing trend across age groups. The report reveals that India ranks second globally for AI shopping adoption, with 76 percent of consumers utilizing such tools. Trust in AI-powered shopping is notably high in India, with 87 percent expressing confidence in AI tools.
Gen Z rewrites festive gifting with AI-assisted picks, artisanal hampers and self-gifting
Gen Zers are embracing self-gifting while shopping for family and friends. Personalised gifts reflecting interests and lifestyles are becoming the norm during festivals. There is an increasing focus on supporting small businesses and understanding product provenance.
Abundantia Entertainment and invideo announce first film of their co-production slate Beta Builder
Abundantia Entertainment and invideo have announced the commencement of production for the film Beta Builder. Directed by Hridaye A Nagpal, this innovative film blends live-action with AI-driven technology. The story follows Jai, a self-taught architect from Dharavi, as he navigates the virtual reality landscape. The film explores themes of ambition and community, highlighting the importance of belonging. With a talented cast, this production marks a significant step into AI-assisted filmmaking.
How should companies measure performance when AI does part of the work?
As AI becomes part of everyday work, companies are reconsidering how they assess employee performance. Measuring output alone may overlook the quality of decisions, the ability to verify AI-generated work, and the value employees add beyond what the technology can produce.
AI’s 3-week blitz digs up 14,000 security flaws in open-source software
Google Cloud’s Mandiant team reported a similar acceleration in vulnerability discovery. In August, it said that its AI-assisted system had identified more than 100 confirmed critical vulnerabilities in two days during an investigation involving stolen corporate code repositories.
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