AI EXPANSION EXPLODES: Welders and electricians become the new elite earners

AI-Driven Construction Boom and Skilled Trades [00:03]

• A massive artificial intelligence buildout is creating a construction gold rush across the country, with tech giants investing billions in AI infrastructure.
• This surge in big projects is leading to high demand for skilled workers.
• Electricians, welders, and foremen are reporting pay raises of 30%, with many now earning over $200,000 per year.
• One tradesperson was quoted in the Wall Street Journal saying, "I pinched myself going to work every day."
• The discussion highlights the value of high-paying jobs in fields that allow for trade and skill development.
• Historical parallels are drawn to past economic booms, such as the oil boom in Pennsylvania in the late 19th century, noting that while many failed, others built great wealth and companies.
• The current period is seen as an opportune time for individuals, especially younger ones with certifications, to enter and thrive in these fields.
• A new category of jobs involves formatting content to be recognized and utilized by AI.

"America's newest boom towns aren't mines anymore. They're data centers."

Warner Brothers Discovery Bidding War and Regulatory Landscape [02:46]

• A three-way bidding war is underway for Warner Brothers Discovery, involving Comcast, Netflix, and Paramount/Skydance (backed by Larry Ellison and his son David Ellison).
• Donald Trump's potential regulatory approval is a key factor. Trump has expressed strong dislike for Comcast CEO Brian Roberts, suggesting Comcast would face an uphill battle and potential court challenges for approval, a process that could take two years.
• Netflix also faces regulatory scrutiny, as the White House reportedly does not favor a larger Netflix, which already has 300 million subscribers. Combining with Warner Brothers Discovery would add HBO Max, making it a dominant streaming service. This merger could also face a lengthy court battle.
• The Paramount/Skydance bid, financed by Larry Ellison, is considered to be in the pole position due to minimal antitrust implications, particularly concerning studios, as the landscape of content creation has diversified beyond traditional studios.
• A caveat exists, as the Warner Brothers Discovery board reportedly favors the Netflix deal.
• Warner Brothers Discovery is in the process of breaking up into two companies: one for cable assets like CNN and HBO, and another for the studio and streaming services.
• Paramount/Skydance is reportedly only interested in acquiring the studio and streaming service.

"So, um, you got to put Paramount Sky Dance in the pole position."

Undervaluation of CNN and Linear TV [05:50]

• CNN, a profitable entity that generates approximately $500 million in profits annually, is being significantly undervalued in the current deal discussions.
• The valuation of CNN is being described as "dimminimous" by some, and the speaker finds it "mindboggling" and "scary" for those in the media business.
• Linear TV in general is being valued at extremely low levels, almost as if it were worth $1.
• While not literally valued at $1, it's noted that these linear TV assets are not considered the "prized possession" compared to other components of the potential acquisition.
• The outcome of the second round of bids was expected, with a directive to watch the reporter's Twitter feed for updates.

"Yet, people are valuing CNN like dimminimous in this deal."