China's consumer prices index experienced its sharpest fall since 2009, standing at a concerning rate of -0.8% in January. This deflationary trend poses a serious threat to economic growth, potentially leading to reduced spending and a looming recession. The unexpected magnitude of China's deflation compounds the challenges faced by Beijing in reviving the economy amidst a property crisis and a global economic slowdown.

Meanwhile, governing artificial intelligence (AI) proves to be a challenge for the U.S. government. Investigations are underway to tackle the issue of robocalls generated by AI, while Congress holds hearings to discuss the use of AI. A recent report reveals the presence of more than 200 active AI applications and an additional 500 planned initiatives in non-military federal agencies. To address governance and ethical concerns surrounding AI, the establishment of AI Centers of Excellence (CoEs) is proposed. These CoEs would align AI strategies with agency missions, prioritize ethical AI governance, and promote interdisciplinary collaboration. Drawing from the private sector's experience with CoEs, valuable insights can guide the government's approach.

In the realm of politics, President Biden finds himself facing yet another gaffe. During fundraising events, he mistakenly claimed to have spoken with the late German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, mirroring a similar misstatement he made earlier in the week regarding a conversation with the deceased French President François Mitterrand. These errors shed light on the need for greater care and accuracy in the President's public statements.

The Digest, 2/8/2024 @130AM, CDT

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