

Survey finds sharp AI knowledge gap among rural Nebraskans by age, schooling and income A new Nebraska Rural Poll shows that most rural Nebraskans have limited knowledge of artificial intelligence and that familiarity with AI varies strongly by age, education and income . The findings place Nebraska’s rural communities squarely inside a broader national pattern in which younger, more educated and higher‑income residents are far more likely to use and understand AI tools than their older and less advantaged neighbors. Most rural Nebraskans say they know little about AI The 2024 Nebraska Rural Poll, conducted by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, asked thousands of rural residents how much they know about artificial intelligence and whether they use AI tools. Just over half of respondents — 53% — said they are not at all or only slightly informed about AI. About 34% described themselves as moderately informed, while only 13% reported being very or extremely informed. Usage figures were similarly modest. Roughly 27% of rural Nebraskans said they have used AI tools such as chatbots or automated writing assistants, meaning nearly three‑quarters have never tried them. Researchers note that this relatively low level of engagement raises concerns about whether rural communities will be able to fully participate in AI‑driven economic and civic changes. Age is a major dividing line Age emerged as one of the strongest predictors of AI experience in the Rural Poll. Among Nebraskans under 30, a majority — 55% — reported using AI tools, in stark contrast with older residents. Only about 9% of those aged 65 and older said they had used AI. Younger adults were also much more likely to say they are very or extremely informed about AI. This age divide parallels national survey data. A 2025 Pew Research Center study found that about 62% of U.S. adults under 30 had heard or read “a lot” about AI, compared with just 32% of adults 65 and older. Other research has shown that AI use tends to peak in early to mid‑career years and declines steadily after age 60. Education and income strongly linked to AI use The Nebraska Rural Poll report shows that people with more education are far more likely to have experimented with AI tools. About 40% of respondents with at least a four‑year college degree reported using AI, compared with only 4% among those with a high school diploma or less. The survey also found higher usage among people in management, professional, education, food service and personal care jobs, which tend to require more formal training. Household income tells a similar story. Rural Nebraskans with higher incomes were more likely to say they had tried AI tools and to report feeling at least moderately informed about the technology. Nationally, a Phoenix Center analysis of more than 7,000 U.S. adults found that AI use and AI awareness both rise with income and education while declining with age. A separate Rutgers University survey likewise reported that higher‑income and college‑educated Americans use AI more often, trust it more and demonstrate greater knowledge about how it works. Limited confidence that AI serves the public interest Beyond awareness and usage, the Nebraska Rural Poll explored how residents feel about AI’s broader impact. Many respondents said they are not confident that AI is being used in the best interest of the public. That skepticism was particularly strong among those who felt least informed, suggesting that low literacy may be fueling mistrust. National research points to similar tensions. While more educated and higher‑income Americans tend to trust AI more, surveys consistently find worries across demographic groups about job loss, misinformation and privacy. For rural communities, where economies often rely on agriculture, small business and local services, the stakes of how AI reshapes work and communication may feel especially high. Nebraska’s broader digital readiness challenge The new findings on AI land in a state that already faces structural challenges in technology readiness. A recent analysis ranked Nebraska as the 20th least prepared state for the AI economy based on jobs, education and government funding. The report cited relatively weak federal support for tech‑oriented small business innovation and below‑average rates of AI‑related degrees among Nebraskans in their early twenties. Earlier studies of digital readiness in Nebraska also found large gaps tied to age, income and educational attainment, with smaller differences between urban and rural counties. Those same divides now appear to be shaping who knows about AI and who feels left behind. Call for education and outreach in rural communities Researchers behind the Rural Poll say the results underscore the need for targeted education and outreach if rural Nebraskans are to benefit from AI rather than be sidelined by it. They argue that improving AI literacy — from basic definitions to practical examples in agriculture, health care and local government — could help residents make more informed decisions and evaluate risks. The pattern found in Nebraska mirrors broader academic work showing that younger people with tertiary education and mid‑ to high‑income levels use a wider range of AI tools, report greater confidence and rely on AI for more complex tasks. Without deliberate efforts to close those gaps, experts warn that AI could deepen existing inequalities in economic opportunity, civic participation and access to information.

Dubai has developed one of the most vibrant sports car markets in the Middle East, driven by high purchasing power, strong car culture, and modern road infrastructure that favors high‑performance driving. The city’s market spans everything from relatively affordable performance coupes to ultra‑rare hypercars, creating a layered ecosystem for both new and used vehicles. Why Dubai Is a Global Hub for Sports Cars Dubai’s broader positioning as a luxury destination has spilled over directly into its automotive sector. The emirate has cultivated a successful market for luxury goods, including cars, and has become a top destination for supercar enthusiasts. Well‑maintained highways, long stretches of Sheikh Zayed Road, and a strong focus on premium automotive services make sports cars not only a status symbol, but also practical for those seeking high‑performance driving experiences. Car culture in Dubai is defined by a visible presence of sports cars and supercars in everyday traffic, from Ferrari and Lamborghini to boutique marques such as Pagani and Koenigsegg. According to regional automotive commentary, the UAE’s streets routinely feature icons like the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse alongside luxury sedans such as the Maybach 57S, highlighting how performance and prestige coexist in the local market. Structure of the Market: New vs. Used Dubai’s sports car market is divided between brand‑new showroom cars and a large, thriving used car segment. Specialist dealers such as Al Tayer Motors offer extensive collections of both new and certified pre‑owned sports cars across the UAE, including Dubai. Customers can choose from the latest luxury sports models equipped with cutting‑edge technology or opt for certified pre‑owned vehicles that balance performance with relative affordability. The used sports car market is particularly strong. While brand‑new supercars dominate the city’s showrooms, demand for used high‑performance cars—especially from brands like Porsche, Ferrari, and McLaren—is described as “thriving like never before.” Buyers who want to enter the high‑end segment without paying new‑car prices often turn to these pre‑owned vehicles, viewing them not only as driving machines but also as prestige assets with potential investment value. Online marketplaces and classified platforms play a key role in this ecosystem. Listings show that Dubai offers one of the largest selections of sports cars in the region, with varied price ranges covering European, Japanese, and American performance cars. Digital platforms connect private sellers and dealerships, provide detailed vehicle histories, and help standardize pricing in an otherwise highly diverse market. Popular Models and Price Levels Market data from Dubai indicates that sports cars are available at multiple price points, from more accessible coupes to multimillion‑dirham hypercars. On the used market, some of the most popular sports models and their average asking prices in Dubai include: Beyond these mass‑recognized sports cars, there is a substantial niche for more exclusive models. Listings for luxury sports cars in Dubai show price ranges starting from approximately AED 167,000 and extending up to about AED 5.4 million, depending on the brand and specification. Another set of regional price data highlights examples such as the Mercedes‑Benz SLK and SLC, Lotus Evora, Alfa Romeo 4C, and Mercedes‑Benz SLS AMG, with prices varying according to model, variant, and condition. The city’s used market also makes traditionally aspirational brands more reachable. Pre‑owned Porsche Cayman models, for instance, can be found starting around AED 120,000–150,000, while used Nissan 370Z units are reported from about AED 70,000. Even Ferrari models such as the California have appeared on the Dubai market at starting prices around AED 300,000, underlining how the local used market allows broader access to supercar ownership. Dealerships and Showrooms Dubai’s sports car market is anchored by a mix of physical showrooms along major roads and digital platforms that aggregate listings from multiple dealers. Sheikh Zayed Road, the city’s main highway, has become a corridor of luxury dealerships and sports car showrooms, featuring outlets such as VIP Motors, Al Ain Class, and other specialist retailers. VIP Motors, described as the largest luxury car showroom in the UAE, showcases an extensive portfolio of high‑end and rare vehicles in a single location on Sheikh Zayed Road. Other showrooms, including Auto Deals UAE and Pearl Motors, focus on premium supercars and hypercars, offering curated inventories and professional buying experiences for enthusiasts and investors alike. In addition to traditional dealerships, car auctions and online platforms further diversify the market. Shozon car auction, for example, is promoted as a destination for sports car enthusiasts, providing a wide range of used, certified pre‑owned, and new sports cars—with nearly 200 new sports cars available for sale in Dubai through that channel alone. Market Dynamics and Buyer Profile Several factors shape demand in Dubai’s sports car market. High disposable incomes—combined with a culture that values visible status symbols—support constant turnover in top‑end vehicles. Many buyers upgrade periodically to the latest model or limited edition, feeding a robust supply of used sports cars that then enter the secondary market. Buyers can be broadly grouped into three categories: Strong availability of premium maintenance services and specialized workshops also supports ownership. This ecosystem makes long‑term sports car ownership more viable, and in some cases, helps certain models retain strong resale values, reinforcing the perception of these cars as both lifestyle purchases and potential assets. Outlook for Dubai’s Sports Car Segment Regional commentary indicates that sports cars and supercars are integral to how the UAE’s car culture is defined, and this trend shows no signs of weakening. With a continued influx of high‑net‑worth residents and visitors, expanding digital marketplaces for car sales, and dealers that increasingly stock rare and limited‑production models, Dubai is expected to remain a leading hub for sports cars in the Middle East. Taken together, Dubai’s sports car market offers a distinctive blend: everyday visibility of performance models, deep inventory of used vehicles at varied price points, and a top tier of showrooms trading in some of the world’s rarest hypercars. This combination ensures that the city continues to attract enthusiasts at all levels—from first‑time sports car buyers to collectors seeking exceptionally exclusive machines.

ASML’s Surprise Guidance Hike Highlights Its Quiet Power in the AI Chip Boom While AI headlines are dominated by chip designers like Nvidia and cloud giants such as Microsoft and Amazon, one of the most critical companies behind the AI hardware revolution sits further up the supply chain: ASML Holding . Often described as an unsung hero of artificial intelligence, the Dutch equipment maker just delivered guidance that stunned investors and underscored how central its machines are to the future of advanced chips. ASML recently reported another strong quarter and, more importantly, sharply raised its full-year revenue outlook, signaling that demand for cutting-edge chipmaking tools is accelerating as AI workloads proliferate. What ASML Announced – And Why It Matters According to a recent analysis of the company’s performance, ASML posted roughly 25% year‑over‑year revenue growth in its latest quarter, a solid pace for a business already operating at enormous scale. While that growth rate is not the fastest among AI‑linked stocks, the real shock for the market came from management’s new guidance. ASML lifted its expected 2026 revenue range to between €43 billion and €45 billion , up from a prior range of €36 billion to €40 billion. For a company whose fiscal year is already well underway, that is a substantial mid‑course upgrade. It effectively signals that chipmakers are ordering more of ASML’s most advanced tools than previously anticipated, primarily to support surging demand for high‑performance logic and memory used in AI data centers. The market reaction was swift: investors interpreted the guidance hike as confirmation that AI‑driven capital spending cycles at foundries and integrated device manufacturers are stronger and more durable than feared. Why ASML Is So Critical to AI Chips ASML is the only company in the world capable of producing extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography systems , the tools used to etch the tiniest features on the most advanced semiconductor wafers. Without these machines, the latest generations of processors used in AI servers, smartphones and high‑end PCs would be impossible to manufacture at commercial scale. Chip designers such as Nvidia and AMD rely on foundries like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and Samsung to fabricate their chips. Those foundries, in turn, rely on ASML’s EUV and deep‑ultraviolet (DUV) tools to shrink transistor sizes and pack more computing power into each chip. In this sense, ASML sits at the heart of the AI value chain, but one step removed from the consumer and enterprise brands that tend to capture the most attention. This technological position has effectively given ASML a narrow monopoly in a critical segment of the chip equipment market. Analysts and investors routinely highlight that there is no direct substitute for its most advanced systems, and that replicating the company’s decades‑long R&D and supplier ecosystem would be extraordinarily difficult. How the AI Wave Is Powering ASML’s Outlook The AI boom requires enormous volumes of advanced logic chips (such as graphics processing units and custom accelerators) and high‑bandwidth memory. To meet these needs, leading fabs are running near full capacity and planning multi‑year expansion programs, which drive orders for ASML’s lithography tools. By raising its revenue guidance so aggressively, ASML is effectively confirming that these capital‑expenditure plans are translating into concrete orders in its backlog. Investors watching for signs that AI‑related demand could stall now have fresh evidence that, at least for the coming few years, chipmakers expect to keep building out manufacturing capacity at a rapid pace. That said, ASML’s business is not immune to cyclicality. Semiconductor equipment spending has historically moved in waves, with periods of over‑investment leading to temporary slowdowns. The question for long‑term shareholders is how much the AI cycle can smooth or extend those traditional boom‑and‑bust patterns. Is ASML Stock Still a Buy After the Rally? The upgraded guidance and confirmation of strong demand have helped push ASML’s valuation higher. The market has largely recognized its strategic importance, and the stock now trades at a clear premium compared with many other semiconductor and equipment names. According to the Motley Fool analysis that spotlighted the recent news, ASML is widely regarded as a high‑quality, strategically vital business —but not necessarily a bargain at current levels. The author notes that the company’s technological advantage and essential role in AI manufacturing are precisely why the market is willing to pay up for its shares. However, that same strength means much of the AI upside may already be reflected in the price. In that view, investors who prioritize faster growth or more attractive valuations may find better opportunities downstream, for example in foundry operators such as TSMC that are growing quickly and benefiting from the same AI tailwinds while trading at lower multiples. While ASML remains a solid long‑term holding, some analysts prefer to deploy new capital into those other names rather than initiate or add to positions in ASML at today’s valuation. Key Risks Investors Should Watch Even with its unique technology, ASML faces several notable risks: Cyclical demand: Semiconductor equipment spending can contract sharply if chipmakers pause or cut back on expansion plans, which would hit ASML’s orders and revenue. Geopolitical and export controls: Restrictions on advanced equipment sales to certain countries could limit ASML’s addressable market for EUV tools. Customer concentration: A significant share of revenue comes from a small number of leading fabs, making the company sensitive to their individual capex decisions. Execution at scale: Meeting rising demand for highly complex machines requires flawless execution in manufacturing and in a long, specialized supplier network. These factors do not negate ASML’s structural advantages, but they help explain why some investors remain cautious about paying very high multiples, even for a dominant player in a critical AI‑enabling technology. Bottom Line for Long‑Term AI Investors ASML’s latest results and upgraded revenue outlook reinforce its status as one of the essential, if often overlooked, enablers of the AI revolution. Its monopoly‑like position in EUV lithography and deep integration into the world’s leading chipmakers provide a strong long‑term foundation. Whether the stock is still an attractive buy today depends largely on an investor’s risk tolerance, time horizon and appetite for valuation risk. Those seeking direct exposure to the picks‑and‑shovels of AI may see ASML as a core holding, accepting its premium price. Others may choose to look further down the semiconductor value chain for companies that can ride the same AI wave while offering faster growth or cheaper entry points.

UNESCO and LG AI Research have launched a free global online course designed to turn AI ethics principles into practical skills for professionals working with artificial intelligence. The Massive Open Online Course, or MOOC, was unveiled in Seoul during the Ethics by Design: Industry and Innovation Conference and is being delivered in partnership with Coursera. The new course arrives as governments, companies and universities face growing pressure to make AI systems more transparent, fair and accountable. UNESCO said the initiative is intended to translate its long-standing ethics framework into a learning experience that helps people apply those ideas in everyday development, deployment and governance decisions. From global principles to practical training The course is built on UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence , which was adopted unanimously by UNESCO’s 193 Member States in 2021 and is described by the organization as the first global normative instrument on AI ethics. UNESCO said the MOOC marks a shift from principle-setting to practice, with the goal of helping learners use an “ethics-by-design” approach in the systems they build, regulate or deploy. According to UNESCO, the course is aimed at technologists, researchers, policymakers, students and other professionals whose work touches AI. Coursera’s course page says learners will be able to explain core principles of AI ethics and responsible AI, assess ethical risks and societal impacts, and apply governance and human-rights-based approaches to AI development and use. What the course covers The program is structured across 10 modules and covers topics including fairness and inclusion, privacy and data governance, transparency and accountability, safety and security, environmental sustainability and global AI governance. UNESCO said the course emphasizes practical application, including everyday trade-offs that influence ethical AI decisions, and uses real-world cases, adaptable frameworks and reflective exercises. Coursera describes the MOOC as a practical foundation for people with basic AI knowledge who want to understand how ethics can be embedded in AI products and services. The platform says the course is available to learners worldwide and includes certification upon completion. A partnership aimed at broad access UNESCO said the course was co-developed with LG AI Research , whose involvement helped shape a curriculum meant to be rigorous and forward-looking. Coursera joined as a delivery partner, opening the course to a global audience through its online learning platform. The launch also reflects a broader push to democratize AI ethics education. UNESCO described the MOOC as a global public good, designed to be accessible across borders and generations. In parallel, UNESCO had earlier announced plans for a global repository of best practices to showcase how ethics in AI is being applied around the world, alongside the course development process. Why the timing matters The launch comes amid intensifying debate over how AI should be governed as the technology spreads through workplaces, public services and consumer products. UNESCO has repeatedly framed its ethics recommendation as a foundation for international cooperation on AI governance, and the new course appears intended to make those ideas more usable for practitioners. At the Seoul conference, the discussion was centered on what ethical AI looks like in practice, from how systems are built to who they are built for. The event brought together participants from UNESCO, LG AI Research, the Korea AI Safety Institute, Coursera and companies including Kakao and NAVER, alongside academic and research institutions. Part of a wider effort in Korea and beyond Reporting from The Korea Herald said LG AI Research launched the course in partnership with the Korean National Commission for UNESCO, and that the initiative builds on a collaboration formed after the AI Seoul Summit in 2024. The outlet also reported that the curriculum involved AI ethics experts from institutions such as Carnegie Mellon University, Stanford University, the Oxford Internet Institute and the Alan Turing Institute. That coverage added that the partners plan to launch a pilot AI ethics training program for developers and researchers later this year, with an eventual expansion to five to 10 regional universities across Korea in 2027. Those plans suggest the MOOC may serve not only as a standalone course but as the basis for broader training efforts in the region. For UNESCO, the project fits a larger strategy of turning its recommendation into tools that institutions can actually use. The organization has argued that ethical AI standards only gain value when they move from policy language into technology development, research, industry practice and policymaking. This course is meant to help do exactly that, by giving learners a shared framework for decisions that are increasingly shaping how AI affects public life. With free access, certification and a curriculum aimed at practical decision-making, the UNESCO-LG AI Research MOOC is positioned as both an educational offering and a policy instrument. Its success will likely depend on whether developers, regulators and institutions adopt it as a common reference point for responsible AI work.
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