Top249: Tesla's Robotaxi | First Electric Passenger Plane | Bitcoin plummets below $100k

🌟 Welcome to the latest edition of Top249 🤩 

We're here to keep you updated on AI, tech, and business news and articles, so you can save time and focus on learning and growth.

Let's get started! 😎 

AI & Tech Frontier

Tesla’s robotaxi is live: here are some of the first reactions.

• Tesla has launched a limited, invite-only robotaxi service in Austin using modified Model Y vehicles with safety drivers and strict geofencing.

• Early riders reported a mostly smooth experience, though some noted minor issues like app delays and pick-up challenges.

• While this marks a step toward autonomy, it’s far from Musk’s original promise of full self-driving taxis; the real test comes with the Cybercab in 2026.

From fear to fluency: Why empathy is the missing ingredient in AI rollouts

• Many AI initiatives fail not due to technical flaws, but because they lack empathy in rollout strategies—ignoring user fears, trust, and human context.

• Successful adoption hinges on clear communication, emotional intelligence, and involving users early in the process.

• Empathy-driven approaches can build user trust, reduce resistance, and ensure AI tools feel supportive rather than disruptive.

First electric passenger plane lands at JFK in milestone flight

• Beta Technologies’ electric aircraft completed a landmark passenger flight from East Hampton to JFK Airport in just over 30 minutes.

• The fully electric flight cost only $8 in power and offered passengers a quiet, smooth experience.

• This marks a major milestone in sustainable aviation, with FAA certification expected by 2026 and infrastructure already in development.

Business Briefs

Bitcoin plummets below $100,000 after U.S. strikes Iran nuclear sites

• Bitcoin and Ethereum both fell around 5% following U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, shaking investor confidence in crypto as a safe-haven asset.

• The sudden drop highlights how closely crypto markets are now tied to geopolitical events and global risk sentiment.

• Analysts noted that cryptocurrencies are behaving more like traditional risk assets, showing vulnerability during major global tensions.

Dow futures drop 150 points while oil prices jump after the U.S. bombs Iran’s nuclear sites and widens Mideast conflict

• U.S. stock futures dipped while crude oil prices surged to a five-month high after the U.S. launched airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

• Investors fear potential disruptions in global oil supply, especially through the Strait of Hormuz, heightening inflation concerns.

• Markets are expected to remain volatile as investors await Iran’s response and look to central banks for further economic guidance.

Hidden Gems / Learn & Grow

Airbnb Engineering Blog

• Check out their engineering blog to learn about what they have been working on

Till next time.