Breaking news

Trump Announces $500 Billion Private-Sector Investment In AI Infrastructure

U.S. President Donald Trump unveiled a landmark private-sector investment plan on Tuesday, promising up to $500 billion in funding to support artificial intelligence infrastructure. This ambitious initiative aims to position the United States ahead of its global competitors in this vital technological sector.

Trump revealed that a joint venture called Stargate, involving OpenAI (creator of ChatGPT), SoftBank, and Oracle, will spearhead the effort. The project will build cutting-edge data centers and generate over 100,000 jobs in the U.S. The companies involved, along with other equity partners, have already committed $100 billion for immediate deployment, with the remaining funds to be invested over the next four years.

Key Highlights:

  • Joint Venture: OpenAI, SoftBank, and Oracle are collaborating on Stargate, aiming to revolutionize AI infrastructure.
  • Immediate Investment: $100 billion has been allocated for the first phase, with the full $500 billion to be invested over the next four years.
  • Job Creation: The project is expected to generate more than 100,000 jobs in the U.S.
  • Construction Begins: The first data centers are already being built in Texas, with plans for 20 centers, each spanning half a million square feet.

Executives Backing The Plan

The announcement was made at the White House, with key industry leaders such as SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, and Oracle Chairman Larry Ellison joining Trump. Ellison emphasized that the data centers will be pivotal in powering AI applications, including those for analyzing electronic health records to aid healthcare professionals.

Ellison also credited Trump for making the project a reality, stating, “We wouldn’t have decided to do this unless you won.” Altman echoed this sentiment, noting that the development of artificial general intelligence (AGI) would not have been possible without Trump’s leadership.

While it was unclear if this announcement was an update to a previously reported initiative, the scale and impact of the project make it a significant milestone in the U.S.’s AI development strategy. The venture is set to play a crucial role in advancing the country’s leadership in AI technologies.

Robust Cyprus Construction Activity Bolsters Vassilico Cement’s 2025 Performance

Vassilico Cement Works Public Company Ltd reported a net profit of €35.52 million for 2025, supported by strong construction activity in Cyprus. Company profit reached €34.99 million, reflecting higher revenues and improved operating performance.

Domestic Market Growth Driven By Cyprus Construction

Group revenue rose to €152.75 million, while company revenue reached €152.66 million, up 11% year on year. Growth was driven by increased sales volumes in the domestic market, where construction activity remained strong throughout the year.

Enhanced Production Efficiency And Cost Management

Gross profit increased to €50.30 million at group level and €50.21 million at company level, compared with €42.49 million in 2024. The improvement reflects gains in production efficiency and cost control, supported by higher use of alternative fuels and improved electricity efficiency. These measures reduced unit costs while supporting environmental targets.

Executive Insights And Macroeconomic Outlook

Executive Chairman Antonis Antoniou said strong domestic demand supported production volumes, with the company maintaining focus on the local market and managing exports selectively. He added that favorable economic conditions in Cyprus contributed to performance, despite regulatory pressures in Europe and broader geopolitical uncertainty.

Navigating Energy And Regulatory Challenges

Future performance will be influenced by energy market volatility and European climate policy, including carbon pricing and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism. Rising fuel and electricity costs continue to affect energy-intensive industries.

The company is expanding its renewable energy capacity, with a photovoltaic park reaching 16MW and plans for an additional 8MW, subject to grid connection. The investments aim to improve cost stability and energy efficiency.

Shareholder Returns And Strategic Investments

The board approved an interim dividend of €0.15 per share, totaling €10.79 million, on September 25, 2025. A final dividend of €16.55 million, or €0.23 per share, will be proposed. Combined, total dividends amount to €27.34 million, or €0.38 per share.

Management said the company will continue focusing on efficiency, cost control and sustainability as it navigates energy market pressures and regulatory requirements.

eCredo
The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties
Uol
Aretilaw firm

Become a Speaker

Become a Speaker

Become a Partner

Subscribe for our weekly newsletter