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Impact of cloud computing in higher education
Impact of cloud computing in higher education

Hans India

time26-05-2025

  • Business
  • Hans India

Impact of cloud computing in higher education

In today's fast-paced and digital world, technology is no longer a support tool, it's at the core of modern education. Among the most transformative innovations is cloud computing, a technology that enables access to data and applications over the internet instead of relying on local servers or personal computers. From virtual classrooms to collaborative research, cloud computing is revolutionizing higher education, especially for students. What is Cloud Computing? Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services like storage, databases, software, and networking over the internet — or 'the cloud.' This eliminates the need for physical infrastructure and gives users access to scalable and flexible resources from anywhere in the world. Why Cloud Computing Matters in Higher Education According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the global cloud computing in education market is projected to grow from USD 8.13 billion in 2016 to USD 25.36 billion by 2021, at a CAGR of 25.6% . This growth reflects the increasing need for scalable, cost-effective, and remote learning solutions. Benefits for Students 1. Anywhere, Anytime Learning Students can access learning materials and submit assignments from any internet-connected device, enabling continuous learning outside of campus. l 71% of students prefer cloud-based tools due to the convenience and accessibility they offer. 2. Collaborative Learning Cloud computing enables group work and team projects with tools like Google Docs, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams. A study by McKinsey & Co. emphasized that digital collaboration tools significantly improve learning outcomes in higher education 3. Access to Advanced Tools Students gain access to: l Virtual labs for science and engineering courses l Cloud-based coding environments like Google Colab and Jupyter Notebooks l Learning Management Systems (LMS) such as Moodle and Canvas 4. Reduced Costs Cloud computing reduces the need for physical textbooks, on-campus lab infrastructure, and high-end devices. Institutions using cloud solutions can save up to 30% annually on IT costs, according to IBM Cloud Education Benefits for Universities (That Indirectly Help Students) l Scalability: Institutions can scale operations to support thousands of students. l Data Security: Cloud platforms offer automatic backup, encryption, and compliance with data privacy standards. l Sustainability: Reducing paper usage and energy consumption helps institutions move toward greener campuses. Challenges & Considerations Despite the advantages, cloud computing presents certain risks: 1. Privacy Concerns Without proper security protocols, student data can be compromised. l 60% of educational institutions reported experiencing at least one cloud-related data breach 2. Internet Dependence Students in rural areas or regions with poor connectivity may face limited access to online resources. 3. Learning Curve Not all students and faculty are adept at using cloud tools, which can hinder adoption. What Students Should Do l Learn to use platforms like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, and Zoom. l Explore cloud-based labs and tools relevant to your academic stream. l Practice virtual collaboration, a key skill for future workplaces. Cloud computing is not just an IT upgrade — it's an educational revolution. It enhances access, enables collaboration, and makes learning more efficient and cost-effective. As cloud adoption increases in higher education, students who embrace it will gain a competitive edge not only academically but also professionally. The future of education is in the cloud — and it's already here. (The author is Director Admissions & Outreach, Noida International University)

At Raisefashion, Supporting Underrepresented Designers at the Forefront of Sustainable Fashion
At Raisefashion, Supporting Underrepresented Designers at the Forefront of Sustainable Fashion

Business of Fashion

time19-05-2025

  • Business
  • Business of Fashion

At Raisefashion, Supporting Underrepresented Designers at the Forefront of Sustainable Fashion

In 2025, sustainability has decreased in priority for fashion businesses, with only 18 percent of executives surveyed for The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Co.'s The State of Fashion 2025 report citing it as a top-three risk for growth in 2025 — compared to 29 percent in 2024. This downward trend reflects an overarching row back on sustainability initiatives, with most companies lagging on their environmental targets and investments — despite accelerations of regulatory reform, mounting costs of non-compliance and the climate crisis remaining an imminent global threat. Consequently, emerging designers and the next generation of fashion entrepreneurs are driving the sustainability agenda today — but these brands continue to face significant hurdles achieving visibility, access, funding and wider support in the macro-economic environment of 2025. These challenges are further magnified for brand founders from underrepresented communities: the share of US startup funding going to companies with Black founders hit a multi-year low in 2024, with about $730 million — or 0.4 percent of all funding — reaching this demographic, according to Crunchbase News. 'The challenges designers face aren't just complex. They're layered, deeply personal and often invisible to the outside world,' said Felita Harris, the executive director and co-founder of the non-profit organisation Raisefashion, at a recent panel discussion in New York. Raisefashion launched in July 2020 in a bid to improve accessibility for underrepresented designers in the fashion industry while fostering a more equitable new generation of brands. Ninety percent of the entrepreneurs and designers on the Raisefashion programme are running sustainability-oriented businesses. The non-profit is focused on ensuring that designers in its programme are not only supported but poised for success in an industry increasingly shaped by conscious consumerism. In so doing, Raisefashion has launched a brand fellowship this year, supporting eight BIPOC designers — each of whom has the opportunity to receive a grant ranging from $10,000 to $15,000, along with hands-on training focused on building a successful brand positioned for long-term operational growth. Raisefashion's advisory platform is at the heart of its mission and connects emerging designers with a network of over 400 industry experts across creative, merchandising, operations and business development. It provides personalised guidance, fosters community-building initiatives and ensures BIPOC designers are equipped with the strategic support they need to thrive. Felita Harris, Raisefashion's executive director and founding board member. (RaiseFashion) Raisefashion's advisory services sits at the heart of its mission, rooted in the understanding that underrepresented founders often face systemic barriers to the guidance, insights and mentorship necessary to grow a successful fashion business. To further this commitment, Raisefashion recently launched it Advisory Platform — a members-only digital ecosystem designer to offer real-time access to over hundreds of seasons professionals across merchandising, buying, operations and business development. The platform delivers personalised guidance, curated connections and a strong sense of community — ensuring that underrepresented designers have the tools, relationships and support they need to thrive. Additionally, mental health is another critical component of Raisefashion's approach, recognising that the pressures of entrepreneurship — exacerbated by systemic barriers — can often lead to burnout and instability. By confronting these issues head-on, Raisefashion emphasises that true sustainability extends beyond production and materials, and encompasses the wellbeing of individuals and support systems behind a brand's success. Now, BoF sits down with Harris to explore how the organisation is evolving, the impact of its ongoing initiatives and what's next for its growing community of designers. As sustainability is deprioritised by executives, how are emerging designers stepping up? At Raisefashion, sustainability isn't just a principle — it's a core practice embedded in how our designer's work. Over 90 percent of our masterclass designers source ethically and sustainably, using small-batch production, deadstock materials, local sourcing and artisan-led techniques. For many BIPOC and underrepresented founders, these approaches are born out of necessity due to limited access to traditional infrastructure, capital and large-scale production. These designers are not only practicing sustainability but are actively shaping what it means. Yet, they remain largely excluded from the wider conversation, absent from conferences, award platforms and policy discussions that determine the future of fashion. While some established brands are stepping back from sustainability under economic pressure, these emerging designers are setting new standards. If the industry is serious about building a truly sustainable future, it must do more than acknowledge emerging leaders — it must invest in them. Why is sustainability a key criterion within the Raisefashion programme? Our mission is to empower designers to build businesses that reflect their identities and values — businesses designed for longevity, relevance and impact. The designers we support are thinking globally, not just locally, and their work carries both cultural depth and universal resonance. Sustainability is central to that vision. It's not just about environmental practices — it's about building ethical, emotionally grounded and financially sound businesses. At Raisefashion, we see sustainability as a holistic framework that includes environmental responsibility, transparent production and founder wellbeing. When done right, it becomes a growth strategy — and proof that values-driven brands can compete and lead on a global scale. What are the main challenges faced by designers in the programme? The consistent challenge we hear about is access — to capital, retail partnerships, operational expertise, marketing support and consumers who not only purchase but believe in the brand. But access isn't just about opportunity. It's also about proximity, trust and a clear path forward. For BIPOC and underrepresented founders, these barriers are deeper and more systemic, shaped by a lack of generational wealth, limited networks and historic exclusion. The issue isn't talent or vision — it is navigating an industry not built with them in mind, that too often expects legacy-brand performance without legacy-brand resources. If the industry is serious about building a truly sustainable future, it must do more than acknowledge emerging leaders — it must invest in them. Raisefashion exists to shift that dynamic. Our goal isn't just to open doors but to walk through them alongside our designers. Through strategic support, education, and community, we help them build the language, tools and systems needed to scale on their own terms. Equity isn't about offering a platform — it's about changing the conditions that determine who gets to stay on it. What industry changes could help create a more equitable and accessible environment for BIPOC creatives? Commitment to equity must go beyond language — it must live in budgets, infrastructure and long-term strategy. The industry is good at creating moments, but moments alone won't build futures. We need systems, from dedicated shelf space to long-term mentorships, operational support and sustained marketing investment. Community investment should be standard — not as charity, but as shared responsibility. Underrepresented designers should not only be included during cultural campaigns, awareness months, or when the industry deems it timely. They should be funded, supported and scaled because their businesses are viable and visionary. True equity means giving underrepresented creatives time, trust, education and the space to grow without the pressure to mirror legacy models. The industry must partner in a way that reflects accountability. We all need to ask, 'If it were me, what would I want?' From there, we should act accordingly. How are macro-economic pressures impacting emerging designers when scaling their businesses? Emerging designers are facing a perfect storm — rising production costs, supply chain disruptions, slower retail cycles, shifting consumer behaviours and extended net terms from retailers who once partnered with upfront deposits or Net 30. These compounding pressures make it increasingly difficult for independent brands to sustain growth and meet demand without compromising their creative integrity or financial stability. It's not just about business — it's the message we're sending to the next generation of talent. When we make it this hard to enter or survive in the industry, we risk discouraging brilliant creatives from believing there's a place for them in it. And the cost isn't just theirs — it's one the entire industry will pay. The future of fashion depends on it. At Raisefashion, we support designers to navigate these pressures strategically. Sometimes that means recalibrating go-to-market plans, adjusting wholesale terms, or finding creative ways to maintain visibility. We encourage strategic patience, not reactive decision-making. How is Raisefashion evolving to meet the needs of the next generation of designers? We are evolving in step with the designers, students and stakeholders we serve — listening deeply and responding intentionally. A major development has been the launch of our advisory platform — connecting brands to experts in finance, legal, operations, merchandising and more — offering targeted, real-time guidance. Across every touchpoint, we are building for long-term growth. We have expanded our Designer Production Fund, launched initiatives around mental health and investment readiness, and deepened our masterclass series through new partnerships. Our internship programme offers hands-on, purpose-driven experience, and our New York Fashion Week preview not only presents collections — it teaches designers to approach visibility through the lens of financial strategy. Commitment to equity must go beyond language — it must live in budgets, infrastructure and long-term strategy. Looking ahead, we are integrating digital tools, AI literacy and consumer insight into our programming to prepare our community for the future of commerce. We are building an ecosystem that centres creativity, community and sustainability — one that equips designers to lead with clarity and confidence. Why should retailers and investors better support the emerging talent working toward a sustainable agenda? Success can't be defined by scale alone. It must include cultural relevance, community trust and responsible practices. Conscious brands aren't just responding to trends — they are also building the future with new systems and deeper values. They bring innovation, identity and integrity but, without sustained support, many are stretched thin and pushed to tight margins. These designers aren't replicating legacy models, and they shouldn't. The most compelling aspect is that they are reaching audiences who are finally seeing themselves reflected in fashion. The question isn't what these designers need — we know what real support looks like. The question is, 'Are we willing to give it with intention and consistency?' Support must be structural, not symbolic. That means tailored investment, flexible wholesale terms, co-marketing partnerships and storytelling that reflects their full identities. If we can fund legacy brands through downturns, we can make space for emerging talent to thrive. How does Raisefashion integrate mental health support in its initiatives? Mental health is a foundational component within our work at Raisefashion. Founders — especially from underrepresented communities — often carry the emotional weight of visibility, expectation and exclusion, all while running the day-to-day of a growing business. It's an invisible labour that takes a toll. We have embedded mental wellness into our programmes through access to licensed therapists, peer-to-peer mentorship and workshops on boundaries, rest and resilience. Our approach is practical and compassionate. Founders can't build sustainable businesses if they are burning out behind the scenes. True sustainability includes the wellbeing of the people behind the brand. What role does community and mentorship play in sustaining designers through these challenges? The road to building a brand is long and often isolating. But when designers are surrounded by peers and mentors who understand the journey, that is when everything shifts. We are seeing a return to care and connection — a move away from individualism toward community as a foundation for longevity. I believe that community brings resilience and mentorship brings clarity. We have built a space where support is transformational, where no one has to carry the weight alone and we are working to ensure our designers are seen, supported and held through every stage of their growth. This is not an add-on — it's the core of what we do. We are building ecosystems rooted in belief, business and belonging. Behind every thriving brand is a community that believed in it first. This feature is part of a community partnership with Raisefashion.

Study Reveals Growing Interest In Battery-Electric, Hybrid Alternative
Study Reveals Growing Interest In Battery-Electric, Hybrid Alternative

Forbes

time16-04-2025

  • Automotive
  • Forbes

Study Reveals Growing Interest In Battery-Electric, Hybrid Alternative

If Goldilocks is searching for a new vehicle that's electric but won't trigger range anxiety, yet is pretty good for the environment she might think an extended range electric vehicle, or EREV, is just right, and a growing number of consumers think so too. Indeed, a survey of more than 2,800 new car buyers in the U.S. and 2,300 in the United Kingdom and Germany late last year revealed a good many of them would consider an EREV for their next vehicle, if available. That's a key finding of a study by McKinsey & Company on the market potential of EREVs. Unlike plug-in or conventional hybrids, an EREV is powered by a battery-electric motor that's charged on-the-go by a small internal combustion generator. The result, according to the study is an electric-only driving range of 100-200 miles compared to 20-40 for a plug-in hybrid. Total driving range for an EREV is 400-500 miles. While many consumers in the study weren't familiar with the technology behind an EREV and appeared reluctant to consider such a vehicle. But in an interview, study co-author Patrick Hertzke revealed consideration for their next vehicle changed when the technology and capabilities were explained. 'It was very interesting that the when you when you went from not explaining what an EREV was to explaining what an EREV was, the interest, which jumped to 18% took share from people that were considering an internal combustion engine from a hybrid, from a full battery electric and plug in hybrid,' Hertzke explained. 'So what it tells us is that there is this underlying interest in electrified vehicles, and it tells us that range concerns and charging concerns are still one of the big impacts for U.S consumers.' With those results in mind, the study suggested a key market for EREVs would be what it described as EV owners considering switching back to an ICE vehicle due to 'frustration with inadequate charging ability and driving range in their current vehicles.' The openness to EREVs comes at a time when the volume and pace of sales of battery-electric vehicles is beginning to pick up, although they still represent a small share of the market. During the first quarter of this year nearly 300,000 EVs were sold in the U.S. according to data from Cox Automotive's Kelley Blue Book. That represented just 7.5% of new vehicle sales during that period, up slightly from 7.0% during Q1, 2024. The prospects for accelerating EV sales is murky as import tariffs, a Trump administration threat to end federal tax incentive for EV purchases and support for funding a national charging network hang in the air. It's a starkly different climate in China where EVs dominate sales. But as Hertzke pointed out, interest in EREVs over there caught the attention of McKinsey & Co., leading to this study. 'We've seen some real excitement around EREVs and a huge growth in China last year, which surprised a lot of people,' Hertzke said. 'I think we were forecasting that some of that would occur but we saw much higher growth of EREVs and plug-in hybrids in China than we did even BEV growth in 2024 and so that triggered our interest.' While the capabilities of EREVs might lead to some conversions of shoppers who had considered internal combustion or other electrified vehicles, the McKinsey study also revealed the costs of producing them might be attractive to automakers. 'If focused on providing an electric range of 150 miles, EREV combined powertrain costs could be as much as $6,000 lower than BEV powertrain costs,' the study said. That cost advantage is likely to attenuate however, however as battery costs begin to decline, bringing the cost to produce an EREV to between similarly-sized internal combustion and battery-electric vehicles, according to the study. Right now there aren't very many EREVs available, but that's changing. Among some of the EREVs planned to hit the market, Stellantis's Ram truck brand will begin selling the EREV RamCharger later this year and Volkswagen Group is reviving the Scout brand that will include EREV versions of the Terra pickup truck and Traveler SUV. As in the case of plug-in and conventional hybrids, the study considers EREVs a 'bridge technology,' providing a waystation for those not ready quite yet to make the jump to a full battery-electric vehicles while the charging infrastructure improves, selection increases and the price for BEVs comes down. Hertzke points out rising consideration for BEVs in each successive study conducted by McKinsey along with increased sales and broader product lines at lower price points in the offing as evidence consumers will eventually go full battery-electric for subsequent purchases. But for right now, EREVs may prove just right for many consumers, even if they're not named Goldilocks.

Andreessen Horowitz Eyes $20 Billion Megafund as Global Appetite Surges for US AI Startups
Andreessen Horowitz Eyes $20 Billion Megafund as Global Appetite Surges for US AI Startups

Globe and Mail

time09-04-2025

  • Business
  • Globe and Mail

Andreessen Horowitz Eyes $20 Billion Megafund as Global Appetite Surges for US AI Startups

In a move that could redefine the landscape of %ArtificialIntelligence investing, renowned venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) is seeking to raise a record-breaking $20 billion fund dedicated to growth-stage AI startups in the United States. As reported by Reuters, this effort marks one of the largest fundraising campaigns in venture capital history, reflecting the unprecedented demand for American AI innovation amid escalating geopolitical and technological rivalries. For investors, this isn't just a headline—it's a signal flare. The scale of the fund, combined with its laser focus on U.S.-based AI companies, underscores a seismic shift in global capital allocation and long-term growth strategies. This is not just another bet on tech—it's a full-throttle wager on the future of intelligence. Why This Matters for Investors AI is no longer a fringe innovation—it is the core engine behind the next generation of enterprise transformation, defense systems, healthcare breakthroughs, and consumer technologies. The timing of Andreessen Horowitz's megafund aligns with a historic inflection point: global AI investment surged past $190 billion in 2024, according to McKinsey & Co., and is projected to exceed $300 billion by 2026. Notably, U.S. AI startups captured more than 60% of global private AI funding last year, with demand only accelerating as nations prioritize AI sovereignty and self-reliance. As countries like China tighten tech regulations and Europe pushes forward with restrictive AI governance models, the U.S. has become the epicenter of open innovation and investor-friendly AI policy. Andreessen Horowitz's move serves as both a catalyst and a barometer. The firm, known for early bets on Facebook, %Airbnb (NASAQ: $ABNB), and %Coinbase (NASDAQ: $COIN), rarely signals without substance. Their focus on growth-stage investments—rather than seed or early-stage rounds—suggests confidence in the maturity and scalability of today's AI ecosystem. Where the Money's Going While specific targets haven't been disclosed, industry sources speculate the fund will concentrate on AI infrastructure, foundation models, robotics, synthetic data, and enterprise platforms integrating AI at scale. Companies like %OpenAI, Anthropic, and Mistral AI have set the tone, securing multi-billion-dollar rounds from corporate giants and sovereign wealth funds alike. Notably, a16z's megafund could fill a critical gap in the capital stack—providing the fuel for AI startups transitioning from proof-of-concept to mass commercialization. The firm's reputation and deep connections with institutional LPs, tech founders, and government stakeholders may also provide portfolio companies with strategic advantages beyond capital. Future Trends to Watch Institutional Capital Shift Sovereign wealth funds, pension funds, and university endowments are increasingly allocating to private AI investments as a hedge against tech concentration in public markets. AI Policy & Defense Spend U.S. government interest in defense-related AI applications—ranging from autonomous systems to cyber warfare—could drive a surge in dual-use technologies ripe for venture backing. IPO Pipeline Revival If AI growth-stage companies backed by a16z show strong performance, we could see a resurgence in tech IPOs by late 2025 or early 2026, offering liquidity and new opportunities for retail and institutional investors alike. M&A Acceleration As Big Tech races to secure its AI future, expect consolidation. Startups with competitive moats in data, algorithms, or domain-specific AI will be top acquisition targets. Key Investment Insight Investors should pay close attention to U.S.-based AI growth companies—especially those in infrastructure, model optimization, and enterprise integration. While private opportunities may be out of reach for most retail investors, public companies with AI exposure (such as Nvidia, Palantir, and ServiceNow) could benefit indirectly from the innovation ripple effect and strategic acquisitions. ETFs like the Global X Robotics & AI ETF (BOTZ) or the iShares Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (IRBO) may offer diversified access to the sector for those seeking exposure without picking individual winners. Stay Ahead with As AI continues to reshape industries and investment strategies, staying informed is crucial. delivers timely, actionable insights that help investors navigate today's most disruptive trends—from AI and crypto to politics and market movements.

Quantum Computing Is a Hot Topic in the Artificial Intelligence Sector. But Which Stocks Will Still be Around Decades From Now?
Quantum Computing Is a Hot Topic in the Artificial Intelligence Sector. But Which Stocks Will Still be Around Decades From Now?

Globe and Mail

time09-04-2025

  • Business
  • Globe and Mail

Quantum Computing Is a Hot Topic in the Artificial Intelligence Sector. But Which Stocks Will Still be Around Decades From Now?

For the past few years, investors have become enamored with the prospects of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. But for the most part, developers have been touting the same carousel of ideas -- explaining how AI is leading to breakthroughs in training large language models, helping build autonomous systems for vehicles, and bringing unprecedented levels of efficiency to the workplace. Although these use cases fetched a lot of intrigue for a while, investors are beginning to look for something new to get excited about now. Enter quantum computing -- a pocket of the AI realm management consulting firm McKinsey & Co. estimates to be worth $1.3 trillion by 2035. Essentially, this form of computing uses principles of quantum mechanics to process information exponentially faster than a "classical" computer. Where to invest $1,000 right now? Our analyst team just revealed what they believe are the 10 best stocks to buy right now. Learn More » For the past several months, executives at the largest AI businesses have started talking about the next revolutionary phase of modern computing. As is typical for a new megatrend, loads of companies are now marketing themselves as quantum computing darlings -- parroting talking points about how the technology is poised to benefit high-priority areas in healthcare, cybersecurity, and financial services, just to name a few. Let's explore which companies are making waves in the world of quantum computing, and assess what opportunities are best for investors with a long-term time horizon. These quantum computing stocks are getting loads of attention, but... Seasoned investors know all too well that whenever a hot new area emerges within an already popular theme, opportunities seemingly begin popping up out of the woodwork. Take a look at the chart below and try to spot the anomaly. RGTI data by YCharts Do you notice anything a little odd? The share price returns for quantum computing stocks Rigetti Computing, IonQ, Quantum Computing, and D-Wave Quantum absolutely trounce the returns across both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite over the last year. To add an extra layer of weirdness here, the share prices for these quantum computing stocks barely moved between January and October 2024 -- and then suddenly, they popped exponentially. If you've never heard of these companies, there are good reasons. Chief among them is that each company above is only generating nominal levels of revenue. This makes sense, as quantum computing does not have much in the way of utility given the current state of the AI narrative. In other words, while the idea of quantum computing technology is exciting, there isn't much application for it today. RGTI Revenue (Quarterly) data by YCharts Nevertheless, the companies explored above have all managed to trade at valuation multiples that are completely disconnected from their underlying business trends (i.e., low revenue, heavy cash-burning operations). Given the upside-down financial profiles of these companies, I'm hard-pressed to buy into a narrative that any of them will be around decades from now. Instead, let's look at some other opportunities that look better positioned for the long haul. ...these magnificent opportunities look better positioned for the long term By now, I'm sure you're well aware that the "Magnificent Seven" stocks -- Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN), Apple, Alphabet (NASDAQ: GOOG), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), Meta Platforms, Tesla, and Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) -- dominate the AI narrative. For the most part, each of these companies hovers around overlapping use cases in AI -- from workplace productivity software, semiconductor chips, social media, self-driving cars, cloud infrastructure, and more. However, Amazon, Alphabet, Microsoft, and Nvidia have all quietly been showcasing their own forms of progress in the area of quantum computing as well. For example, Amazon, Alphabet, and Microsoft have all developed their own series of quantum chips. In addition, Nvidia offers an extension of its compute unified device architecture (CUDA) software platform specifically geared toward quantum computing. The jaw-dropping returns from IonQ, Rigetti, D-Wave, and Quantum Computing are rooted in hype around the idea of quantum computing and what opportunities might be multibaggers in the future. By contrast, Nvidia, Amazon, Alphabet, and Microsoft all have much stronger financial horsepower that allows them to consistently invest and hone their quantum roadmaps without taking a toll on existing AI initiatives that are actually being monetized as it stands today. Furthermore, given that these Magnificent Seven cohorts have already built large and thriving AI businesses, quantum computing represents another thread that could stitch their broader AI ecosystems together -- helping them build even stronger businesses poised to grow for decades down the road. While the Magnificent Seven stocks are currently under pressure during the ongoing Nasdaq sell-off, each company remains in a solid financial position for the long run. I see Nvidia, Alphabet, Amazon, and Microsoft as far superior opportunities compared to the more speculative names I explored above. Should you invest $1,000 in Nvidia right now? Before you buy stock in Nvidia, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Nvidia wasn't one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $578,035!* Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than quadrupled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*. Don't miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join Stock Advisor. *Stock Advisor returns as of April 5, 2025 John Mackey, former CEO of Whole Foods Market, an Amazon subsidiary, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. Suzanne Frey, an executive at Alphabet, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. Randi Zuckerberg, a former director of market development and spokeswoman for Facebook and sister to Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. Adam Spatacco has positions in Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta Platforms, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Tesla. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta Platforms, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Tesla. The Motley Fool recommends the following options: long January 2026 $395 calls on Microsoft and short January 2026 $405 calls on Microsoft. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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