America Abbai Newsletter 1/13/25

By Vamsi Kari

Stock Markets As of 1/13 8:55 PM CST

S&P 500
5,836.22 (0.16%)

Dow 30
42,297.12(0.86%)

Nasdaq
19,088.10(-0.38%)

Bitcoin
94,947.46(+0.17%)

Top News

The rise of Nvidia has renewed investor interest in AI chip startups, with Blaize, an edge AI chipmaker founded by former Intel engineers, set to go public via a SPAC deal on Nasdaq. Blaize, launched in 2011, focuses on low-power AI chips for smart products like drones and security cameras, raising $335 million from investors such as Samsung and Mercedes-Benz. Despite being unprofitable, with $87.5 million in losses on $3.8 million revenue in 2023, Blaize projects a $1.2 billion valuation post-merger and boasts $400 million in pipeline deals, including a $104 million contract with an unnamed EMEA defense entity.

John Locher/AP

Firefighters in Los Angeles are battling deadly blazes intensified by winds up to 70 mph, with over 92,000 residents under evacuation orders and the total area burned surpassing 60 square miles. At least 24 people have died, with many still missing, and Governor Gavin Newsom warns the death toll is likely to rise. The Eaton and Palisades Fires rank among California’s most destructive, and resources to support victims are available through Impact Your World.

The Chinese government is reportedly exploring a contingency plan for Elon Musk to acquire TikTok’s U.S. business, according to Bloomberg News. This plan is among several options being considered as the U.S. Supreme Court reviews a potential ban on TikTok in the country. However, TikTok dismissed the report as “pure fiction” in a statement to CNBC.

Microsoft has launched a new engineering organization, CoreAI — Platform and Tools, to accelerate AI infrastructure and software development. Led by Jay Parikh, a former Meta executive with experience in technical infrastructure and cloud security, the division combines Microsoft’s Dev Div, AI platform teams, and some Office of the CTO employees. This reorganization reflects Microsoft’s commitment to prioritizing AI innovation under the leadership of CEO Satya Nadella.

At a rally for Delhi assembly elections, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized AAP chief and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over rising pollution, corruption, and inflation, contrasting Kejriwal’s promises to transform Delhi into “Paris.” Gandhi accused Kejriwal of failing to address these issues, questioning his claims of removing corruption and improving living conditions. In response, Kejriwal stated that while Gandhi is focused on saving the Congress party, his fight is to “save the country.”

Movie News

Sreeleela, known for her role in the popular “Kissik” song from “Pushpa 2: The Rule,” is set to make her Bollywood debut alongside Ibrahim Ali Khan, son of Saif Ali Khan. The film will be directed by Kunal Deshmukh, with an official announcement expected soon.

Ibrahim Ali Khan is currently working on his debut film, and Sreeleela will star opposite him in his second project. Their recent appearance together in Mumbai sparked various speculations, but it has been confirmed that they are collaborating on this upcoming film.

Sreeleela’s popularity has surged following the success of “Pushpa 2: The Rule,” leading to numerous offers from Bollywood. Her collaboration with Ibrahim Ali Khan marks a significant step in her expanding career within the Indian film industry.

Rating: 2.75/5

Verdict: A passable family entertainer with engaging moments in the first half but a lackluster second half weighed down by over-the-top comedy and weak writing.

Positives:

• Venkatesh’s comedy timing and emotional performance.

• Aishwarya Rajesh’s relatable portrayal of an innocent wife.

• Bulliraju’s character, especially in the first half.

• Melodious songs, particularly “Godari Gattu Meeda,” and a good background score.

Negatives:

• Weak story and forced comedy in the second half.

• Over-the-top sequences and logicless writing.

• Underwhelming production quality and rushed editing.

Analysis:

Anil Ravipudi delivers a typical family entertainer with a mix of comedy and emotion that works well in the first half but falters in the second half due to poor pacing and writing. While the performances and music are highlights, the lack of a cohesive story and unnecessary social messages in the climax detract from the overall experience. Families looking for light-hearted Sankranthi entertainment may enjoy it, but it falls short of being memorable.

Prabhas’ highly anticipated romantic horror comedy The Raja Saab, directed by Maruthi, has officially been postponed from its initial release date of April 10, 2025. The production house confirmed that a new release date will be announced soon, with the team reportedly eyeing a June 2025 release.

On Sankranthi, a fresh poster featuring Prabhas was unveiled, showcasing the star actor with a charming smile, hinting at a promising portrayal in the film. The movie marks Malavika Mohanan’s Telugu debut and also stars Niddhi Agerwal in a key role. Produced by TG Vishwa Prasad under People Media Factory, The Raja Saab features music composed by Thaman.

Theatre Releases

Source: Filmibeat

Movie

Release Date

Game Changer

Jan 10th

Daaku Maharaaj

Jan 12th

Sankranthiki Vasthunnam

Jan 14th

Streaming Dates

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