WSJ Tech News Briefing – July 18, 2025

Episode: TNB Tech Minute: White House Prepares Executive Order Targeting ‘Woke AI’
Host: Mariana Aspuru
Release Date: July 18, 2025

Overview

In this episode of the WSJ Tech News Briefing, host Mariana Aspuru delves into several pivotal developments shaping the technology landscape. The primary focus centers on the White House's forthcoming executive order aimed at regulating artificial intelligence (AI) biases. Additionally, insights into Netflix's strategies to enhance user engagement and Fortescue's green energy investment challenges are discussed.

1. White House Targets 'Woke AI' with New Executive Order

Key Points:

• Objective: The White House is formulating an executive order to address perceived liberal biases in AI models used by tech companies.
• Scope: This directive specifically targets AI firms seeking federal contracts, mandating political neutrality and unbiased AI model development.
• Implications: Given that major tech companies vie for federal government contracts, the order could have extensive repercussions across the tech industry.
• Strategic Context: This move is part of a broader strategy by the administration to assert dominance in the AI race against China.

Notable Quotes:

• "White House officials are preparing an executive order targeting tech companies with what they see as woke artificial intelligence models." (00:17)
• "The order would mandate that AI companies getting federal contracts be politically neutral and unbiased in their AI models." (00:17)
• "This is the latest effort to go after diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives." (00:17)
• "The executive order would be one of several expected to be released next week, where Trump is outlining his vision for winning the AI race with China." (00:17)

Analysis: The proposed executive order signifies a governmental push to curb what is perceived as ideological biases within AI systems. By enforcing political neutrality, the administration aims to create a standardized framework for AI applications used in federal endeavors. This could lead to significant adjustments in how tech companies design and deploy their AI solutions, potentially stifacing certain diversity and inclusion initiatives previously encouraged within the industry.

2. Netflix's Strategy to Boost User Engagement

Key Points:

• Current Performance: Netflix experienced a user engagement increase of 1.8% in the first half of the year, a slowdown compared to the 4.5% rise in the second half of the previous year.
• Strategic Initiatives: The company is launching a new slate of content and programming, with a particular emphasis on live programs.
• Future Outlook: UBS analysts remain optimistic, suggesting that the diverse range of content and live programming investments will foster renewed user engagement growth.

Notable Quotes:

• "UBS analysts say that Netflix is looking to boost user engagement with a new slate of content and programming." (00:17)
• "Engagement was up 1.8% in the first half of this year, compared with a 4.5% increase in the second half of last year." (00:17)
• "Netflix's range of content and investment in live programs should support more engagement." (00:17)

Analysis: Netflix is proactively addressing a deceleration in user engagement by diversifying its content offerings and investing in live programming. This strategy aims to capture and retain viewer interest in a competitive streaming market. The focus on live content could differentiate Netflix from its peers, potentially driving higher engagement metrics in the upcoming quarters.

3. Fortescue's Green Energy Investments Amid Political Challenges

Key Points:

• Investment Plans: Australian mining giant Fortescue is eyeing acquisitions of operational green energy projects in the United States.
• Challenges: The company is cautious about moving forward due to President Trump's policies, including the imposition of tariffs.
• Leadership Perspective: Fortescue's Executive Chairman, Andrew Forrest, has openly criticized Trump's stance on climate change, influencing the company's investment decisions.

Notable Quotes:

• "Australian mining company Fortescue is looking to buy already operational green energy projects in the US but will be holding back on them because of President Trump's policies, including tariffs." (00:17)
• "This is according to the company's executive chairman, Andrew Forrest, who also criticized Trump's views on climate change." (00:17)

Analysis: Fortescue's intent to invest in green energy aligns with global sustainability trends, yet political barriers in the U.S. present significant hurdles. Andrew Forrest's criticism of the administration's climate change policies underscores the tension between corporate sustainability goals and governmental regulatory environments. This dynamic could delay or reshape Fortescue's investment strategies in the American green energy sector.

Conclusion

Mariana Aspuru wrapped up the Tech Minute segment by highlighting the interconnectedness of technology, policy, and business strategies. For a more comprehensive exploration of these topics and additional tech news, listeners are encouraged to tune into the Tech News Briefing podcast available every Tuesday and Friday.

Timestamp references are based on the provided transcript for accurate attribution.