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AI could end disease, Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis says

by News Editor

April 23, 2025

The Vision of Google’s DeepMind

Demis Hassabis, acclaimed CEO of Google’s DeepMind, celebrated his revolutionary achievements in artificial intelligence (AI) with a refreshing game of poker. The visionary sees AI as the ultimate tool that could potentially end diseases and bring about what he calls “radical abundance.” This bold foresight aligns with the advancements in AI technologies that are continually shaping the landscape.

The Race to Artificial General Intelligence

DeepMind is spearheading the pursuit of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), with aspirations to develop machines as versatile and knowledgeable as humans, but with superhuman speed. Hassabis noted, “It’s moving incredibly fast,” pointing out the exponential improvement curve powered by increasing resources and interest. Yet, the race raises questions about the safety and ethical implications of such rapid advancements.

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Exciting Developments and Challenges

The latest innovation, Project Astra, signals a new generation of chatbots capable of interpreting the world with remarkable accuracy. However, as Scott Pelley observed during a showcase, these systems still lack imagination and curiosity—a gap Hassabis believes could be bridged in the next five to ten years. This progression mirrors global trends, as seen in current tech developments.

The Bigger Picture

Hassabis envisions AI not only to enrich human endeavors but also to tackle health-related challenges, positing that with AI, the end of disease could indeed be on our horizon. As DeepMind continues to evolve, the potential of AI to affect every aspect of our lives remains both a thrilling and daunting prospect.

Global Perspectives

Globally, the dialogue on AI ethics is crucial. “Guardrails,” as Hassabis calls them, are essential to ensure technologies align with societal values and stay within safe limits. The international community faces the daunting task of setting standards that prevent a ‘race to the bottom’ on safety and ethics.

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Competition Authority Launches Comprehensive Review of ExxonMobil Cyprus Acquisition

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

September 16, 2025

Investigation Initiated Over Strategic Acquisition

The Competition Protection Authority has commenced a thorough investigation into the acquisition of ExxonMobil Cyprus Limited’s share capital by Petrolina Holdings Public Ltd through Med Energywise Ltd. This inquiry was formally initiated following a session held on 10 September 2025, after an in-depth review of the pertinent report by the Authority’s Service.

Concerns Over Market Compatibility

Authorities have expressed serious concerns regarding the compatibility of the transaction with established competitive practices. The review indicates that the acquisition may affect several critical petroleum markets, both horizontally and vertically, thereby raising the potential for adverse impacts on market dynamics.

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Horizontal Market Dynamics

On the horizontal front, potential effects have been identified in the import market for petroleum products, as well as in both wholesale and retail distribution channels of these products. The consolidation is believed to increase the risk of price rises and coordinated actions, given the direct competitive proximity between Petrolina and ExxonMobil.

Vertical and Adjacent Market Implications

Vertical aspects of the merger are also under close scrutiny. The new entity could restrict competitors’ access to critical infrastructure such as storage facilities, supply channels, and customer bases. These restrictions could further affect the onshore distribution of fuels, the wholesale market for lubricants, and specialized technical services connected with fuel station operations.

Local Market Considerations

Particular attention is being paid to the potential concentration in the retail fuel market. The investigation suggests that a reduced competitive landscape within a four-kilometer radius of the companies’ fuel stations could lead to diminished local competition, adversely impacting consumer prices and options.

Next Steps and Industry Impact

The Competition Protection Authority, which reached a unanimous decision to pursue a full investigation, remains open to submissions from parties that might be affected by this transaction, as mandated by current legislation. A final decision is expected within four months upon receipt of all necessary evidence, potentially setting a significant precedent for future market consolidation cases in the energy sector.