👋 Good morning, Smashi Business Enthusiasts!

Today, we bring you a roundup of stories that highlight significant moves and issues across the tech, film, and AI sectors. From employee protests in Redmond and major AI investments in Saudi Arabia to new incentives for Hollywood in Abu Dhabi, today’s stories offer a global perspective on innovation and influence.

here’s what’s shaping the region! 👇

1. ⚠️ ⛔️ Microsoft Fires Employees Who Held Vigil for Gaza

📰 What is it about?

• Microsoft has reportedly terminated two employees who organized a vigil at the company’s Redmond headquarters to honor Palestinians killed in Gaza. The vigil, organized by members of "No Azure for Apartheid," was meant to memorialize victims and protest Microsoft’s tech partnerships in the region.

💡 Why it matters?

• The event highlights rising tensions within tech companies over Middle Eastern partnerships and their role in geopolitical issues. Employee activism in tech continues to push corporations to reconsider their ethical responsibilities and transparency in partnerships.

🔜 What’s next?

• Microsoft’s move may increase scrutiny of its internal policies and partnerships, with potential implications for employee relations and corporate image.

📈 Markets

💸 Saudi Aramco Pumps $100 Million to Fuel AI Startups

📰 What is it about?

• Saudi Aramco’s venture arm, Wa’ed Ventures, has committed $100 million to invest in AI startups, aiming to boost Saudi Arabia’s global standing in artificial intelligence. With an advisory board of former Meta and Amazon executives, Wa’ed Ventures is prioritizing the localization of talent and innovation.

💡 Why it matters?

• This investment marks a strategic move by Saudi Arabia to lead in the AI field and diversify its economy. As global demand for AI technology surges, the country is positioning itself as a key player, attracting international talent and innovation.

🔜 What’s next?

• The funds will be allocated over three years, with Wa’ed Ventures expected to announce more investments aimed at positioning Saudi Arabia among the top 15 countries in AI development.

💭Quote of the day
“Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.” —Warren Buffet 🌳 

3.🎬 Abu Dhabi Launches 35% Cashback Rebate for Global Film Productions

📰 What is it about?

• Abu Dhabi has introduced a 35% cashback rebate to attract productions from Hollywood, Bollywood, and beyond. The new rebate aims to lure studios facing high production costs in California by offering competitive financial incentives in the UAE.

💡 Why it matters?

• This rebate strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a global filming hub, especially as studios seek cost-effective locations post-pandemic. The incentives reflect a broader trend among international governments to support the creative economy by enticing high-profile productions.

🔜 What’s next?

• With over 150 productions benefiting since 2013, Abu Dhabi is expected to see more high-budget films and series choosing its locations, boosting local employment and tourism in the region.

🔍In other news…

• Netflix Faces Criticism for Removing Palestine Films: Netflix has removed 19 films from its Palestinian stories category, sparking concern among viewers who suspect external pressures influenced the decision. This move has ignited discussions on the platform’s content policies.

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