FTC Accuses Amazon of Ad Price Manipulation; Data Centers Fuel Copper Boom

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has filed a lawsuit against Amazon, alleging that the e-commerce giant "secretly and systematically overcharged" advertisers by manipulating its pricing and auction systems. The FTC claims approximately 1.2 million businesses were misled and overcharged for product promotions on the platform. This action highlights ongoing scrutiny of Big Tech's market practices and their impact on smaller businesses.

In parallel, the burgeoning demand for artificial intelligence is creating an unexpected economic boon for recycled copper. Telecoms company BT is reportedly set to gain over £2 billion from selling off old copper cabling as the UK transitions to full-fibre broadband. This surge in copper prices is driven by its essential role in AI data centers, electronics, and the renewable energy sector, underscoring the complex environmental and economic interplay of technological advancement.