This Week's Reading List - May 30, 2025

🏢 Remitly's New Seattle HQ

Remitly, a digital remittance company, has unveiled its new headquarters in Seattle's Rainier Square. The office spans three floors, with plans to expand, and is designed to reflect the global communities it serves, featuring spaces inspired by various cultures. The layout promotes collaboration, offering numerous meeting rooms, quiet areas, and unique spaces like "The Cave" for developers. Despite the new office, Remitly continues to support a hybrid work model.

🚀 Musk's Starbase HQ

Elon Musk's SpaceX has transformed Boca Chica, Texas, into an incorporated city named Starbase. Following a vote dominated by SpaceX employees, the city now has its own governance, with officials affiliated with the company. However, proposed zoning changes could affect residents' property rights, leading to concerns about the future of the community.

📊 A New Look at the Economics of AI

MIT economist Daron Acemoglu offers a cautious perspective on AI's economic impact. He estimates that AI could boost GDP by about 1% over the next decade, significantly less than other projections. Acemoglu emphasizes that while AI will have some positive effects, its overall economic benefits may be modest.

♟️ Who is Nona Gaprindashvili

Nona Gaprindashvili is a Georgian chess legend who became the fifth Women's World Champion in 1962 and held the title for 16 years. In 1978, she made history as the first woman to be awarded the title of Grandmaster. Gaprindashvili has remained active in the chess world, winning multiple senior championships into her 80s.

🎬 Queen's Gambit and Nona Gaprindashvili

In 2021, Gaprindashvili filed a lawsuit against Netflix over a line in "The Queen's Gambit" that inaccurately stated she had never faced male opponents. The case was settled out of court, bringing attention to the importance of accurate representation in media.

📚 My First Memoir: Source Code

Bill Gates' debut memoir, "Source Code," released in 2025, delves into his personal and professional journey, including his early life, the founding of Microsoft, and his philanthropic efforts. The book offers insights into the experiences and individuals that shaped his path. All proceeds from the memoir are donated to United Way Worldwide.