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- Industrial Vanguard Newsletter Vol. 2
Industrial Vanguard Newsletter Vol. 2
Your Pulse on the Industrial Value Chain
Your Pulse on the Industrial Value Chain
Week of: January 5, 2025
Introduction & General Comments
Greetings from an Underwhelming CES
The 2025 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) wrapped up this week, and while it showcased iterations of existing technologies—like humanoid robots and autonomous vehicles—there was no singular standout innovation. Stay tuned for a CES-specific update early next week as we dive deeper into the trends and key takeaways.
Materials
Steel Strong: U.S. Steel CEO Responds to Biden’s Presidential Order
U.S. Steel CEO David Burritt issued a statement supporting President Biden’s latest order aimed at strengthening domestic steel manufacturing. The order is expected to bolster U.S. manufacturing competitiveness and drive innovation in sustainable steel production.
Energy
Geothermal Power Gains Momentum
Geothermal energy is emerging as a key contender in the global clean-energy transition. New technologies and policy shifts are propelling its potential as a reliable, renewable power source.
Manufacturing
Micron Expands Semiconductor Manufacturing in Virginia
Micron Technology announced plans to expand its semiconductor facility in Manassas, reinforcing the U.S. supply chain for advanced technologies.Archer Completes High-Volume Manufacturing Facility
Archer Aviation has completed its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility to produce electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft at scale.Anthropic Valued at $60 Billion
AI startup Anthropic is raising funds, reportedly valuing the company at $60 billion. Its focus on safer, scalable AI models has attracted significant investor interest.
Supply Chain and Distribution
U.S. Steel Adopts GEP's Procurement Software
U.S. Steel is implementing GEP’s end-to-end procurement and supply chain software to enhance efficiency and sustainability across North America.Volvo Expands Autonomous Operations for DHL
Volvo has initiated autonomous freight operations with DHL Supply Chain in Texas, a milestone in logistics automation.
Productization
Google Scholar Faces the AI Revolution
Amidst the rapid evolution of AI, questions arise about the future relevance of Google Scholar and its ability to adapt to generative AI models.Quantum Computing Built from Light
A billion-dollar initiative aims to build quantum computers using light-based technologies. The project holds immense potential for industrial applications.Carvana Faces Criticism Over Accounting Practices
A new report from Hindenburg Research scrutinizes Carvana's financial practices, raising concerns over its long-term stability.
Recycling
Toyota Secures $4.5 Million for Circular EV Battery Supply Chain
Toyota has received federal funding to develop a domestic supply chain for recycling and reusing EV batteries, supporting a sustainable circular economy.
Other
Is Venture Capital Losing its Edge?
A thought-provoking article questions whether venture capital and corporate VC are still focused on backing underdogs or simply chasing safer bets.Super-Hybrids: A Bridge for EV Skeptics
Automakers like Mercedes and Toyota are developing high-performance hybrid vehicles to appeal to those hesitant about fully electric cars.Toyota’s Vision for the Future
Toyota’s latest project imagines a "woven city" as a prototype for sustainable, tech-integrated living spaces of tomorrow.
About the Fountainhead Fund
The Fountainhead Fund is a venture capital fund dedicated to investing in the most promising startups and technologies in the industrial sector. From cutting-edge advancements in materials to transformative energy solutions, we actively seek opportunities to fund and support the innovations that are shaping the future of industry.
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