The SEC wants companies to think before they ICO
In the continuing saga of passive-aggressive memos and stern talkings-to, the SEC has raised new concerns about the use of cryptocurrency as a form of fundraising. The latest letter encourages any companies considering cryptocurrency-based fundraising to withdraw their plans. Though, as the price of Bitcoin continues to flounder, it’s possible that the crypto craze may cool on its own. [TechCrunch]
Diversity is good for business, finds unsurprising study
“Diversity” is not just a buzzword — it’s a real initiative that can better your business. New data from McKinsey & Company indicates that companies with higher levels of “gender and ethnic diversity” actually grow faster and boast more long-term profitability than those who don’t make these issues a priority. Alas, while the research speaks to the power of diversity, it also indicates not nearly enough companies are factoring these realities in their hiring decisions. [McKinsey & Company]
A $100M biotech center could soon be coming to a neighborhood near you
The New York Economic Development Corp (NYEDC) is presently on the hunt for prime real estate for its “applied life sciences hub.” Reportedly, the committee has $100 million to tackle the project, which has been in the works for several years, and is accepting proposals from companies who wish to help sponsor the venture. My proposal is likely to suggest they give me the $100 million and build the science center in my apartment… [Xconomy]
JPMorgan vows to raise minimum wage for their employees in sweeping proposal
If you’re one of JPMorgan’s 250,000 employees, you might want to keep an eye on your paycheck. The massive finance company announced that it will spend the next five years investing back in the United States, which includes raising wages for their workers. Hourly employees can expect to see a boost up to $18 an hour. If you’re not among this quarter of a million, there’s still time to climb on board: the company also plans to hire 4,000 new employees. [Business Insider]
In tasty news, Uber Eats acquires David Chang’s delivery startup Ando
Since May 2016, NYC’s favorite chef David Chang (Momofuku, Milk Bar) has operated Ando, a delivery-only restaurant serving up sandwiches and fried chicken. Now, Uber Eats is taking over operations of the company, effective immediately. While it is unclear what this integration will look like in the long-term, many are mourning the fact that Ando’s interlude in operations means they can’t have their Hozon Cheesesteak. [Ando]
Squarespace teases Super Bowl ad featuring your true love Keanu Reeves
In case you haven’t heard, it’s nearly time for the Super Bowl — or, for those of us who still can’t comprehend the concept of a “first down,” really, really expensive commercial season. Squarespace has had some of the most memorable clips in recent years, and plans to continue their #winning streak this year with Keanu Reeves as the star of their short. The web-design company has revealed a 15-second teaser for the full commercial, which is nearly not enough Keanu, in my opinion. [AdWeek]
X.ai announces integration of their personal assistants with Office 365
AI firm x.ai just announced that their virtual assistants, Amy and Andrew, can now fully integrate with your company’s Microsoft Office 365 suite of products. X.ai has been integrated with G-suite products for some time, but now Microsoft users can enjoy the benefits of x.ai’s automated scheduling system. [x.ai]
