Meta just dropped $14.3 billion to grab a 49% stake in data-labeling firm Scale AI. This isn’t a full buyout. Meta also snagged Scale’s co-founder Alexandr Wang to join its ranks.
The deal screams Meta’s rush to catch up with AI giants like OpenAI and Google. But their strategy is still murky.
On TechCrunch’s Equity podcast, hosts dig into the buy, dusting off a past interview where Wang called early AI moves. They debate: Is Meta scoring a game-changer or just adding a big-name playmaker as its own AI dreams slip? 
Also on the podcast this week:
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Chime’s IPO priced at $27, beating predictions, then popped in trading. Anthony Ha weighs in on what this means for tech stocks.
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Y Combinator’s Demo Day swarmed with startups building autonomous AI software, fueled by growing gig economy automation.
- Jony Ive’s LoveFrom quietly worked 18 months with Rivian on an electric bike confirmed to have a bike-like shape.
Equity is back next week.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify or follow on X and Threads at @EquityPod.
