The top 5 things that happened in the AI race this year (www.businessinsider.com)

In 2025, the AI landscape has been transformed by massive capital expenditures and intense competition, with Big Tech companies spending around $400 billion on AI-related ventures, contributing significantly to GDP growth. Nvidia reached unprecedented heights as the first $4 trillion company, and AI’s presence permeated entertainment and advertisements. However, concerns about a potential bubble persist, with industry leaders like OpenAI’s Sam Altman voicing apprehensions about inflated valuations. This mixed sentiment reflects ongoing debates in Silicon Valley, where major players are scrambling to secure top talent and maintain their positions in an increasingly competitive market. The talent wars heated up dramatically as companies like Meta and OpenAI offered staggering signing bonuses to attract leading experts, highlighting the critical need for skilled personnel. Meanwhile, interconnected AI deals, such as Anthropic's partnership with Microsoft and Nvidia, underscore the fragile nature of these investments as companies issue bonds to sustain their spending. Amidst this whirlwind, Google aims to reclaim its competitive edge against OpenAI, having made significant strides with its latest AI model, Gemini 3. As the stakes rise, the implications of this spending spree and talent acquisition will shape the future trajectory of AI and machine learning, making it a pivotal moment for the industry.