June 23, 2025
Tech News
Nvidia has taken a major step into the nuclear energy sector, investing $650 million in Bill Gates-backed TerraPower. This funding round, which also includes HD Hyundai, marks NVentures’ first venture into the energy space. The investment will help fund the construction of TerraPower’s first commercial power plant.
At the core of TerraPower’s vision is its innovative Natrium reactor design, which uses molten sodium instead of water for cooling. This allows the plant to store energy as heat during periods of low demand and release it later when electricity is needed, providing a highly flexible power solution. Construction is underway for the Natrium plant in Kemmerer, Wyoming.
On the geopolitical front, Iran recently imposed a near-total internet blackout following a wave of cyberattacks attributed to Israel-linked hackers. The shutdown severely disrupted communications across the country, cutting off vital information for millions of Iranians amid escalating regional tensions.
The Iranian government cited urgent security concerns after the hacker group Predatory Sparrow claimed responsibility for attacks targeting major financial institutions. Among the victims were Bank Sepah and cryptocurrency exchange Nobitex, with reports indicating that over $90 million in digital assets were compromised. These breaches have exposed serious vulnerabilities in Iran’s financial and digital infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Europe’s micromobility sector is thriving, driven by a wave of sustainable innovation. At the recent Micromobility Europe conference, startups presented a range of creative solutions — from solar-powered charging stations to advanced fleet management platforms.
Convoy, a UK-based startup, showcased its clip-on cargo kit that transforms bicycles into child-friendly transport vehicles. Fleetser introduced its marketplace model for refurbishing shared electric bikes, aiming to extend the life cycle of micromobility fleets and reduce environmental impact. Despite tightening venture capital markets, these companies reflect a growing emphasis on practical, sustainable urban transport solutions.
Tech Explained
Nuclear Power – A form of energy generation that relies on nuclear reactions to produce electricity, particularly fission, where atomic nuclei are split to release energy. Innovations in this space, such as TerraPower’s Natrium reactors, aim for more efficient, flexible energy production.
Internet Blackout – A state where internet access is disabled or severely restricted, often imposed by governments during crises to control information flow. Iran’s recent blackout exemplifies this tactic aimed at protecting national security.
Cyberattack – A malicious attempt to damage or disrupt a system or network, often involving hacking and other online tactics. In the context of Iran, cyberattacks have targeted its banking and cryptocurrency sectors, posing significant risks to its infrastructure.
Micromobility – Refers to small, lightweight vehicles, such as e-scooters and bikes, that are used for short-distance travel. The latest startups in this sector are innovating to create sustainable business models that enhance urban transportation options.
