The U.S. Treasury Department has finalized a rule to restrict investments in advanced technologies in China, including semiconductors, microelectronics, quantum computing, and artificial intelligence, to prevent Beijing from accessing critical expertise. The rule, effective January 2, 2024, prohibits certain transactions and mandates reporting for others, with a complete ban on quantum computing-related transactions. The Office of Global Transactions will oversee the Outbound Investment Security Program. U.S. officials justify the rule as a national security measure, while China opposes it, viewing it as an attempt to hinder its global rise.

Tech companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon are turning to nuclear energy to meet the growing power demands of data centers. Google plans to build small modular reactors with Kairos Power, while Microsoft aims to restart a reactor at Three Mile Island with Constellation Energy. Amazon has acquired a data center powered by the Susquehanna nuclear plant. While small modular reactors promise efficiency and safety, experts like Edwin Lyman express skepticism about their untested technology and potential nuclear waste issues. The initiatives reflect a broader trend towards sustainable energy solutions in the tech industry.

A three-day strike by the International Longshoremen’s Association at U.S. ports resulted in a 62% wage increase over six years, reflecting the growing strength of the labor movement. The agreement, while halting the strike, leaves unresolved issues that could lead to further action. The strike is part of a broader trend of successful union actions across various industries, driven by increased cost of living and income inequality. The Biden administration's support for unions and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on workers' expectations have contributed to this trend. The shipping industry, which saw significant profit increases during the pandemic, was particularly affected by the strike.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has enacted three laws to curb the use of deepfake technology in political campaigns, aiming to protect election integrity. These laws prohibit the distribution of deceptive media and require disclosures for AI-manipulated content. Social media platforms and free speech advocates, including Elon Musk, oppose these measures, citing First Amendment concerns. Meanwhile, federal lawmakers are considering similar regulations. Despite initial fears, deepfake technology has not significantly impacted the 2024 presidential campaign, with misinformation largely relying on traditional tactics.

Sergio 'Checo' Pérez will change his race engineer as Hugh Bird takes paternity leave, with Richard Wood stepping in. The transition will begin at the Dutch Grand Prix, with Bird overseeing the handover. Wood, who has been with Red Bull since 2012, previously worked with Max Verstappen and will now support Pérez. The duration of Bird's absence is unspecified.

A delay in U.S. funding could significantly impact Ukraine's battlefield capabilities, with experts like Nicholas Lokker from the Center for a New American Security noting that current funds may last only until January. Ukraine is already facing shortages in artillery and air defense munitions, and any further delay in aid would worsen these shortages.

The U.S. has imposed financial sanctions on individuals and entities associated with Hamas in response to an attack on Israel. These sanctions effectively isolate the sanctioned parties from the U.S. and global financial systems due to the dominance of U.S. financial services. Despite some Middle Eastern governments viewing Hamas as a legitimate political entity, banks in these regions are likely to comply with the sanctions to maintain access to U.S. financial systems. Alex Zerden, a former Treasury Department official, emphasizes the broad reach and compliance implications of these sanctions.

The U.S. presidential primaries are progressing with former President Donald Trump leading the Republican field, poised to secure the nomination on Super Tuesday. President Joe Biden is expected to continue his sweep of the Democratic primaries. Despite Trump's dominance, former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley remains in the race as a protest candidate. On the Democratic side, there is a movement among some left-leaning voters to protest Biden's support for Israel. Experts believe the primaries have been uncompetitive and anticipate a Trump-Biden rematch in the general election.

Former President Donald Trump's social media network, Truth Social, is set to merge with Digital World Acquisition Corp., potentially increasing Trump's wealth by $3 billion on paper. The merger faces restrictions and depends on investor confidence, with Trump's ability to liquidate shares limited. Concurrently, Trump and the Republican National Committee have formed a joint fundraising committee, with a portion of donations allocated to Trump's legal expenses. Trump's campaign lags behind President Joe Biden's in fundraising for the 2024 election. Trump also faces a $454 million bond deadline related to a fraud conviction in New York.

Shakira is set to release her new album 'Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran' on March 22, featuring collaborations with Cardi B, Bizarrap, and Rauw Alejandro. She has shared insights into her personal life, including her separation from Gerard Piqué, in an interview with Apple Music. Shakira discusses the value of friendship over romance and her experience as a single mother. She also touches on her children's musical talents, particularly Milan's songwriting during the separation. The album promises to be her most honest and moving to date.