Hey, it’s Maryam! Back from a break with a tighter, faster-to-read format (and we will experiment with more improvement ideas as we go).

The last week in AI has been wild. Between OpenAI’s massive moves, new creative tools, and serious debates about AI’s real-world risks, it feels like we’re living the future, for better and for worse. As chatbots reshape everything from enterprise workflows to personal advice, we all have new opportunities to grow, automate, and create. But the news is a powerful reminder: as AI gets more influential, so does our responsibility to use it wisely. Let’s dig in!

1. Chatbots & Mental Health: When AI Advice Goes Too Far   Chatbots like ChatGPT can sometimes reinforce users’ worst ideas, even fueling dangerous beliefs or crises (CBC, NYT). Rare but tragic cases—including lawsuits after suicides—show why experts urge us to balance bot use with real human support (WSJ, PBS). Takeaway: Use AI as a tool, not a therapist. Although more accessible, bots should not replace areas that require deep human connection to operate.

2. The AI Gold Rush: Investment, Hype, and the Coming Shakeout   Tech giants are pumping trillions into AI data centers and infrastructure (CNN), with schemes as big as OpenAI’s $1T plans (AP). But will the money flow into real returns? Skeptics warn the current “AI bubble” mirrors past tech busts (CNBC). Takeaway: Don’t mistake hype for inevitability — look for value, not just sizzle.

3. Publishers Fight Back: Quality Data Gets Pricier   More websites are blocking AI models from data scraping (jumping from 1% to 5% of the web in a year) (dataprovenance.org), while major media charge for content use (NYMag). Companies like OpenAI now strike expensive licenses (e.g., with Financial Times) to avoid lawsuits and boost model quality (OpenAI-FT deal). Takeaway: The days of free data are numbered — expect more “walled gardens” and shifting training costs.

4. Anthropic’s Claude Brings AI Directly to Excel   Anthropic just beta-launched Claude for Excel: an AI sidekick for spreadsheet analysis, live finance data, and advanced reporting (Anthropic, WSJ). It can connect to market feeds and streamline daily tasks. Takeaway: Finance pros now get an AI copilot — this is a big step for automating grunt work.

5. Character.ai Clamps Down on Youth Chatbot Access   After criticism and lawsuits, Character.ai will block chat functions for users under 18 (effective Nov 25), adding age checks and safety controls (BBC, The Guardian). Takeaway: The AI safety push is real and platforms are being forced to step up.

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