Good morning from OWITH.ai: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in the AI and tech world.Homebound, a tech-enabled homebuilding platform established in 2018, is on a mission to revolutionize how homes are purchased, particularly in markets like Denver, Dallas, and Houston. Inspired by the inefficiencies observed during the rebuilding process following the 2017 Tubbs Fire in Northern California, CEO and co-founder Nikki Pechet identified significant gaps in technological support within the industry. The platform offers customers the ability to select houses online, choose from existing developments or start from scratch, and receive real-time pricing updates as configurations change. Additionally, Homebound provides a digital twin of the house for buyers to track construction progress and AI-driven inspections. Since its Series C funding round in 2022, Homebound has raised $400 million—$100 million for operations and $300 million in real estate capital. Despite challenges such as a downturn in proptech and rising interest rates, Homebound aims to become profitable by 2026. The vision extends beyond current offerings, aspiring to compete with major homebuilders and transform into an "Amazon of homes," potentially opening its platform to third-party builders for enhanced efficiency.In related venture capital news, AnySignal raised $24 million led by Upfront Ventures; Yo Labs secured $10 million with Foundation Capital leading; Cayuga Biotech obtained $8 million spearheaded by Wharton Alumni Angels; and BlossomHill Therapeutics raised $84 million in a Series B extension co-led by Janus Henderson Investors. Private equity firms Advent International and Corvex Private Equity took Heidrick & Struggles private for $1.3 billion, while Baseten agreed to acquire AI startup Parsed under undisclosed terms.The CEO Daily newsletter recently discussed President Donald Trump's executive order on artificial intelligence, which seeks to create a national standard by blocking state-level regulations. Tech leaders like Sam Altman and Marc Andreessen support this move for competitive reasons against China. However, there are concerns about legality and the necessity of congressional involvement to avoid a regulatory vacuum while fostering innovation. Additionally, recent global events have prompted reactions from leaders around the world. In Australia, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese advocates for stricter gun laws following a tragic incident at Bondi Beach. Meanwhile, Brown University canceled final exams due to a campus shooting resulting in fatalities.Business updates include Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav's potential $1 billion payout amidst a bidding war involving Netflix and Paramount. Volkswagen's Dresden plant closure marks its first production halt in Germany in 88 years due to weak demand and U.S. tariffs. Private equity firms are reportedly increasing costs for U.S. fire departments by acquiring public safety systems.The December 15, 2025 edition of Fortune highlights several pivotal issues within the tech industry. One significant debate concerns the potential decline of U.S. dominance in artificial intelligence, as highlighted by Roge Karma in The Atlantic. This dominance is largely attributed to control over advanced computer chips; however, recent decisions have allowed the sale of Nvidia's H200 AI chips to China, which could motivate China to develop its own industry. OpenAI is addressing a talent war among tech firms by changing its equity vesting policy for new hires, eliminating previous restrictions to encourage risk-taking among new employees. This move underscores the intense competition for top AI talent

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