Latest Startups & Entrepreneurship News

đź“…March 12, 2026 at 1:00 PM
Major investments in AI cloud and autonomous tech boost startups amid geopolitical tensions impacting energy and VC sectors globally.
1

Nissan Partners with Uber and Wayve for Autonomous Taxis in Tokyo

Nissan announced collaboration with Uber and UK startup Wayve to launch self-driving taxis using Nissan Leaf vehicles in Tokyo later this year. The AI driving system will initially include trained drivers, with plans for global expansion. This partnership accelerates innovation in autonomous mobility.Source 1

2

Nvidia Invests $2 Billion in Nebius for AI-Optimized Data Centers

Nvidia is investing $2 billion in UK neocloud startup Nebius to build an end-to-end Nvidia stack for training and inferencing. The deal promotes cloud fragmentation beyond hyperscalers, positioning Nebius as a key player in AI infrastructure. It addresses future chip supply dynamics over 5-10 years.Source 2

3

Poppi Co-Founder Returns to Shark Tank After $1.95B PepsiCo Acquisition

Poppi, a prebiotic soda startup, was acquired by PepsiCo for $1.95 billion after viral TikTok success and Super Bowl ads. Co-founder Allison Ellsworth discusses building a consumer brand in a VC world dominated by SaaS and AI. She now invests on Shark Tank, challenging beverage startup skepticism.Source 5

4

US Startup Announces Historic Refinery Deal with Indian Firm

A US startup revealed plans for a new refinery at Brownsville port backed by a deal with an Indian company to offset $300bn trade deficit. President Trump hailed it as 'real energy dominance,' with groundbreaking set for Q2 2026. Analysts question the need for another Gulf Coast refinery.Source 6Source 7

5

Fintech CEO and Forbes 30 Under 30 Alum Charged with Fraud

A startup CEO featured on Forbes 30 Under 30 faces federal fraud charges, highlighting risks in the 'Forbes to Federal Prison Pipeline.' The case involves alleged deceptive practices in fintech operations. It underscores scrutiny on young entrepreneurs.Source 8

6

Reliance Rumored for Massive $300B US Refinery Investment

Reports suggest India's Reliance may invest in the first US refinery in 50 years, praised by Trump, though specifics remain unconfirmed by the company. The deal could involve product purchases from the facility. Market reactions tie to oil volatility.Source 3

7

India Eases China FDI Rules Amid Geopolitical Shifts

The Indian government relaxed FDI norms from China, potentially boosting cross-border startup investments and tech collaborations. This occurs against West Asia conflict pressures. It aims to attract more foreign capital into entrepreneurship.Source 3

8

Microsoft Backs Anthropic in Legal Battle Against Pentagon

Microsoft is supporting AI startup Anthropic in a case challenging Pentagon practices, signaling Big Tech's involvement in AI ethics and defense contracts. This could impact startup-government relations. Details emerged in recent market updates.Source 3

9

Novo Nordisk Faces USFDA Scrutiny Over Obesity Drug Reporting

USFDA alleges lapses by Novo Nordisk in reporting serious side effects of its obesity drug, affecting biotech investor confidence. This highlights regulatory risks for healthtech startups. Novo, a key player, faces potential compliance issues.Source 3

10

RPG Group Explores Minority Stake Sale in Zaggle Prepaid Cards

Sanjiv Goenka's RPG Group is considering selling a minority stake in fintech startup Zaggle, which focuses on prepaid cards. Thiagirajan holds 10% in the venture. No active discussions confirmed yet.Source 3