Good Morning, Builders.

Today we’re tracking where platforms are expanding, where AI is hitting limits, and how regulation is reshaping the playing field. Let’s get to work.

TikTok Shop is expanding its e-commerce footprint with digital gift cards in the U.S., ranging from $10 to $500. Recipients need a TikTok account, and balances are added instantly to their TikTok Wallet, with options to send thank-you notes or return a gift. Animated designs and upcoming video attachments make gifting more interactive. The move positions TikTok against Amazon and eBay as it grows beyond social shopping. Success depends on U.S. operations, still negotiating a potential sale to American investors amid a possible ban. (TechCrunch)

Waymo resumed its ride-hailing service in San Francisco after pausing operations due to a widespread power outage caused by a PG&E substation fire. The outage affected roughly one-third of the city, impacting 130,000 residents and forcing temporary business closures. Waymo confirmed that most ongoing trips ended normally before vehicles returned to depots. The company stated it is reviewing the event to better adapt its technology to similar disruptions in the future, emphasizing its commitment to community trust and operational reliability. (Reuters)

Instacart announced it will stop AI-driven pricing experiments on its grocery platform after scrutiny over shoppers paying different prices for identical items. The tests, run via Instacart’s Eversight software, aimed to help retailers optimize sales but drew criticism for creating price disparities of up to 7%, potentially costing customers over $1,000 annually. The company emphasized that no personal or demographic data was used. The move follows an FTC inquiry and a separate $60 million settlement over alleged deceptive subscription and advertising practices. (CNBC)

Larry Ellison has personally guaranteed $40.4 billion to support Paramount’s hostile bid for Warner Bros Discovery (WBD). WBD had urged shareholders to reject the offer, favoring a separate $82.7 billion Netflix deal for its studios, HBO, and HBO Max. Paramount, which targets the entire company including CNN and Discovery Channel, denied that Netflix’s offer is superior. Ellison’s backing addresses concerns over funding credibility, previously complicated by outside investors like Jared Kushner’s Affinity Partners, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, and Qatar Investment Authority. Paramount insists its bid maximizes shareholder value. (The Guardian)

Two senior US Democrats are pressing the Commerce Department to disclose details of license reviews for Nvidia’s H200 AI chip sales to China. Senator Elizabeth Warren and Representative Gregory Meeks want all applications revealed, approved licenses disclosed within 48 hours, and briefings on military risks and allied reactions before approvals. The request follows President Trump’s policy shift allowing H200 exports to China with a 25% government fee. Critics warn the move could strengthen China’s technological and military capabilities. Nvidia plans to begin shipments before mid-February, pending approval. (Reuters)

To the Arena,
- Founders Daily Brief Team

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