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Business

The End of Unlimited AI: Why Efficiency Matters Now

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Corporate spending on artificial intelligence is shifting from unchecked experimentation to strict fiscal management as companies move away from flat-rate subscriptions toward usage-based billing. Firms like Coinbase, Salesforce, and Walmart are implementing price caps and internal audits to curb “tokenmaxxing”—the practice of maximizing AI usage regardless of cost—after realizing that unlimited access to powerful models like Anthropic’s Claude and OpenAI’s GPT series can lead to exponential, unsustainable budget growth, according to corporate executives and industry analysts.

Why Are Companies Capping AI Spending?

The primary driver for new AI budget constraints is the transition by major model providers, including OpenAI, Anthropic, and GitHub, to usage-based billing models. According to GitHub’s chief product officer Mario Rodriguez, the previous flat-rate structures were “no longer sustainable” as the gap between simple chat queries and massive autonomous coding sessions widened.

From Instagram — related to Mario Rodriguez, Niranjan Krishnan

This shift has led to significant sticker shock. A senior software engineer at Deloitte noted that GitHub’s new billing, which took effect in June, has caused developers to burn through monthly quotas rapidly. One highly detailed prompt that previously carried no marginal cost can now exceed $100 under current usage-based pricing, according to the same engineer. Consequently, companies are now prioritizing “hard-nosed utility” over the novelty of AI, as noted by Niranjan Krishnan, head of AI solutions at FPT Americas.

Pro Tip: To optimize AI costs, break large, sprawling tasks into smaller, modular prompts. This “prompt decomposition” prevents high-end models from running long, expensive cycles on tasks that could be handled by smaller, cheaper models.

How Are Businesses Managing Their AI Budgets?

Major firms are deploying diverse strategies to control costs while maintaining productivity. Coinbase has introduced a tiered system of weekly price caps, ranging from $500 to $5,000, depending on an employee’s specific role and seniority. Rob Witoff, a Coinbase executive, stated that while the company wants to encourage innovation, it must ensure that usage is intentional rather than wasteful.

Other organizations are taking different approaches:

  • Salesforce: CTO Parker Harris reported that while the company has allowed high spending, it is now implementing an “Effective Output” score to measure the tangible return on investment for engineering tasks.
  • Walmart: The retail giant has instituted hard usage limits on its internal programming tools.
  • IT Consultancies: Companies including IBM, Oracle, and JPMorgan Chase have joined the “Tokenomics Foundation” to standardize how AI usage is measured and budgeted across the industry.

Will Cheaper Models Replace Industry Leaders?

The rising cost of premium models is creating a market opportunity for lower-cost alternatives. As executives look to balance their books, many are offloading basic, repetitive tasks to smaller or open-source models. Ahmad Awais, founder of Command Code, reported that his startup gained 10,000 customers in a single 30-day period, driven largely by demand for more cost-effective AI solutions.

Building AI-Powered Products at Scale with Mario Rodriguez, CPO of GitHub

This trend mimics the “Ferrari to the grocery store” analogy used by Harness senior vice president Trevor Stuart; companies are realizing that using state-of-the-art models for simple text summarization is a misuse of capital. While OpenAI and Anthropic are attempting to mitigate these costs through “prompt caching” and more token-efficient model releases, the competitive landscape is widening as firms seek to avoid diverting significant portions of their annual upside into AI infrastructure costs.

Did you know? Some companies are now using a multi-model strategy, routing simple requests to cheaper, smaller models (like those from Deepseek or MiniMax) while reserving premium, high-cost models only for complex, logic-heavy coding tasks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is “tokenmaxxing”?

Tokenmaxxing refers to the practice of using high-end AI models for every possible task without regard for the cost of the tokens (the units of data the AI processes). It became a focal point for budget cuts in 2026 as companies realized the behavior was fiscally irresponsible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did AI prices increase in 2026?

Prices rose because AI providers transitioned from flat-rate, subsidized billing to usage-based models. According to GitHub, the previous flat-fee structure was not sustainable as the computational load of autonomous agents grew significantly larger than standard chat queries.

Are companies cutting AI budgets entirely?

No. Most companies are moving toward a “value-based” spend. According to Salesforce CTO Parker Harris, the goal is to forecast spending based on the expected return, rather than simply limiting the use of tools that provide measurable profit or productivity gains.

How is your team handling the shift in AI pricing? Share your experiences in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more industry insights on the future of enterprise software.

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Tech

How Google Is Using Its Search Playbook to Win in AI

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

The AI Pivot: Why Efficiency is Replacing “Bigger is Better”

For the past few years, the artificial intelligence landscape has been defined by a singular, obsessive metric: parameter count. Startups and tech giants alike raced to build the most “dangerous” and “frontier” models, treating raw intelligence as the only currency that mattered. But as we move further into 2026, the conversation has shifted dramatically. The new gold standard isn’t just intelligence—it’s inference efficiency.

Companies are hitting a wall. With AI agents now handling complex, long-running processes, the “token burn” is reaching unsustainable levels. For many organizations, the honeymoon phase of AI experimentation is over, replaced by the harsh reality of the CFO’s ledger.

The Token Burn: Why CFOs are Reining in AI Spend

The math behind AI usage is simple but brutal. Every time a model “thinks,” it consumes tokens. When you scale that across thousands of automated agents, the costs skyrocket. Google CEO Sundar Pichai recently highlighted the scale of this problem, noting that Google’s AI products have seen a sevenfold increase in usage to 3.2 quadrillion tokens since last year.

The Token Burn: Why CFOs are Reining in AI Spend
Sundar Pichai

This “sticker shock” is leading to a major re-evaluation. Industry leaders are realizing that they don’t always need the most expensive, frontier-level model to perform routine tasks. As venture capitalist Chamath Palihapitiya noted, even tech-forward organizations are pulling back from high-cost tools when the ROI doesn’t justify the spend.

Pro Tip: Don’t default to the most expensive model. Audit your AI workflows to identify where “fine enough” models—like specialized, lightweight variants—can replace high-cost frontier models without sacrificing core business outcomes.

The Infrastructure Advantage: Google’s 25-Year Playbook

Google’s recent push for models like Gemini 3.5 Flash isn’t just about product performance; it’s about leveraging a structural advantage that took a quarter-century to build. While competitors are forced to pay a premium for third-party cloud infrastructure and Nvidia GPUs, Google owns the full stack—from custom TPU chips to its own data centers.

The Infrastructure Advantage: Google’s 25-Year Playbook
Google

Analysts estimate that Google’s internal compute costs are significantly lower than those of its rivals. By controlling the hardware, the software, and the applications, Google is positioned to win the “infrastructure race” in the same way it won the search wars two decades ago. It’s a classic flywheel: lower costs allow for faster, more widespread deployment, which generates more data, which in turn improves the model.

Is “Good Enough” the New Frontier?

We are entering an era of pragmatism. The future of AI will likely be defined by a hybrid approach. Companies will use high-end frontier models for complex reasoning tasks while offloading the bulk of their automated agent workflows to high-speed, low-cost models.

Sundar Pichai: Gemini 3, Vibe Coding and Google's Full Stack Strategy

As OpenAI President Greg Brockman famously noted, “the model alone is no longer the product.” The product is now the system—how quick it runs, how much it costs to scale, and how seamlessly it integrates into existing workflows. If you’re a business leader, the focus should shift from “how smart is this AI?” to “how much value can I extract per token?”

Did you know? Google’s early search dominance wasn’t just due to better results; it was driven by the ability to return those results faster and cheaper than anyone else using off-the-shelf hardware. History is repeating itself in the AI space.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is a “token” in AI usage? A token is the basic unit of text that an AI model processes. It can be as short as one character or as long as a word. Costs are typically calculated based on the number of tokens processed.
  • Why are AI costs increasing so rapidly? As companies move from simple chatbots to complex AI agents that perform multi-step, long-running processes, the number of tokens consumed per request has increased exponentially.
  • Can smaller models really replace frontier models? For many specific business tasks, yes. High-speed, lightweight models are often optimized for speed and cost-efficiency, making them more suitable for high-volume tasks than general-purpose frontier models.

Are you struggling to balance your AI innovation goals with your cloud infrastructure budget? Join the conversation in the comments below or subscribe to our weekly newsletter for more deep dives into the economics of the AI revolution.

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News

Tauranga sports facility projects advance as councillors demand cost control

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

The combined projected cost for the Memorial Park Aquatic Centre and a “national-scale courts and events hub” at Baypark could decrease from $190 million to $158 million. This potential reduction follows a doubling of funding from partners and development contributions, which now total $67 million.

While councillors have agreed to move forward with these projects, they have raised significant concerns regarding the accuracy of cost estimates and gaps in financial data. Officials are calling for closer scrutiny before final budgets are signed off.

Memorial Park Aquatic Centre Scaling

The proposed aquatic centre at Memorial Park represents the largest project under consideration. While the original proposal was priced at $124 million—including a splash pad, hydro slides, a toddler pool, and expanded lanes—councillors moved in 2024 to explore scaled-back options ranging from $80 million to $105 million.

Current agenda estimates place the cost at $81 million over four years. This revised concept prioritizes core services such as aquatic sports, lane swimming, hydrotherapy, recreational use, and learn-to-swim programmes.

Deputy Mayor and Mount Maunganui ward councillor Jen Scoular expressed concerns over the demolition of the existing Memorial Park pool, which closed permanently at Easter. Scoular noted that the pools serve as a living memorial to soldiers from World War II and suggested the new development should recognize veterans of all New Zealand conflicts.

Councillors have allocated $4 million for the decommissioning of the old pool and the consenting and detailed design of the new facility. This approval is subject to the design including a connection to the living memorial for all veterans.

Did You Know? The existing Memorial Park pool, which closed permanently at Easter, functioned as a living memorial to soldiers who fought in World War II.

Baypark Sports Hub and Budget Disputes

Plans are progressing to expand the Baypark arena into a larger sports hub, which includes relocating Tauranga Netball from Blake Park to a new multisport centre. This project also involves upgrades to infrastructure, parking, and site access.

Baypark Sports Hub and Budget Disputes
Baypark

The netball facility is now estimated to cost $15.56 million, an increase from the $15.35 million estimate in July, with an additional $3.8 million set aside for contingency, and risk. The TECT Community Fund has agreed to contribute $2 million.

Mayor Mahé Drysdale expressed frustration over a proposed $350,000 toilet block containing two regular and two accessibility toilets. “Pay me $350,000 and I’ll build you four toilets, and I’ll have a exceptionally nice profit on the back of it as well,” Drysdale stated, adding that such costs lead to a “massive loss of trust” in the wider project budget.

Expert Insight: The friction between Mayor Drysdale and staff over a single toilet block highlights a broader struggle within local government: the tension between the urgent need for growth-related infrastructure and the demand for absolute fiscal transparency. When small-scale estimates appear inflated, it often triggers a systemic lack of confidence in multi-million dollar capital works.

Badminton Funding and Strategic Balance

The council also debated the $16 million Badminton Multisport Centre at Tatua Reserve. Despite calls to increase funding to accelerate construction, the council maintained its previously committed $5 million contribution.

A proposal to increase that funding to $6 million failed after a tied vote. Staff warned that without additional funds, the project could be delayed for years or may not proceed at all.

Matua-Ōtūmoetai ward councillor Glen Crowther emphasized the difficulty of balancing investments across different sports to avoid inequity between swimmers, netballers, and badminton players. Pāpāmoa ward councillor Steve Morris added that the council is under “an incredible amount of pressure budget-wise.”

Future Outlook

The council is expected to revisit design, costs, and long-term funding implications in September during wider long-term plan discussions. Staff have warned that while some costs could be refined, significant savings may require changes to the scope of the projects.

Future Outlook
Badminton Multisport Centre

Updated budgets and more detailed financial modelling may be required before councillors commit to final figures.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much could the combined cost of the Baypark hub and Aquatic Centre drop?
The combined cost could drop from $190 million to $158 million, aided by $67 million in funding from development contributions and partners.

What is the current estimated cost for the revised Memorial Park Aquatic Centre?
The current estimate is $81 million over four years, focusing on core services rather than the original $124 million proposal.

Why was the funding increase for the Badminton Multisport Centre rejected?
The proposal to increase funding from $5 million to $6 million failed following a tied vote, with Deputy Mayor Jen Scoular noting that more funding could not be committed without understanding the financial impact.

Do you believe the council should prioritize core services over luxury amenities when scaling back major community projects?

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News

The hidden reason houses cost too much – Roger Partridge

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Local councils in New Zealand are facing a significant fiscal mismatch where the immediate costs of population growth fall on ratepayers, whereas the financial benefits flow to central government in Wellington.

Upgrading trunk infrastructure—including arterial pipes, roads, and sewage capacity—requires immediate funding. However, the rates payments from new housing arrive slowly, leaving a gap in funding for essential services like schools and stormwater management.

Meanwhile, the real-time revenues generated by growth, such as company tax, PAYE, and GST on new spending, go directly to the central government. This creates a system where Wellington captures the short-term gains while councils and ratepayers bear the short-term costs.

The Case for GST-Sharing

To address this, the New Zealand Initiative’s 2013 report, Free to Build, proposed a Housing Encouragement Grant. This would provide councils with a direct fiscal reward benchmarked to the estimated GST on each new home.

From Instagram — related to Zealand, Bill

As an example, under 2013 rates, a $400,000 house-and-land package would have resulted in a $60,000 payment to the consenting council. Proponents argue that a simple, formula-based system is harder to game and provides a clear incentive for councils to approve development.

Did You Know? In Switzerland, the canton of Zurich alone has more than 100 municipalities that each set their own income tax rates, creating a competitive environment where residents can move to lower-tax neighbors.

This approach is inspired by the Swiss model, where local growth leads to local revenue because cantons and communes levy their own income taxes. While New Zealand cannot replicate this exactly—as a local income tax in a monopoly like Auckland would lack competitive pressure—GST-sharing serves as a proxy.

Political Momentum and Potential Impact

The concept of GST-sharing has moved from a fringe idea to a central political discussion. The ACT party introduced it as a member’s bill, and the 2023 National-ACT coalition agreement committed both parties to investigate the proposal.

Housing Minister Chris Bishop has similarly floated the idea as part of his housing agenda. Although the coalition government’s first two Budgets did not deliver the policy, there are indications it may appear in the third.

Expert Insight: The core of this issue is not just about planning laws, but about aligning financial incentives. If councils are financially penalized for growth, they will rationally resist it; providing a direct fiscal reward changes the “arithmetic” of development.

The potential financial impact is substantial. Local Government New Zealand estimates that sharing 50% of GST from 2024 building consents could have generated $1.3 billion for councils, which may have been enough to cover their entire rates increases for that year.

Integrating Incentives and Frameworks

Similar logic has been applied to other industries, such as New Zealand First leader Winston Peters’ proposal to share mining royalties with the regions that bear the costs of extraction.

The Hidden Reason Your Construction Costs Keep Increasing

However, GST-sharing is not a complete solution on its own. For three decades, the Resource Management Act (RMA) has made development costly and uncertain. The government’s Planning Bill is intended to replace the RMA.

For housing supply to improve, both levers must work together: the Planning Bill must provide the legal room for development, while GST-sharing provides the financial reason for councils to say yes.

A final decision on whether these changes will be implemented may be revealed on May 28.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do councils often resist new housing developments?

Councils face immediate costs to upgrade trunk infrastructure, such as roads and sewage capacity, while the resulting rates payments from new housing arrive slowly. This creates a financial burden on current ratepayers.

Frequently Asked Questions
Planning Bill Planning Bill

How would the proposed GST-sharing system work?

It would involve a Housing Encouragement Grant where councils receive a payment benchmarked to the estimated GST of each new home, providing a direct fiscal reward for approving consents.

What is the difference between the GST-sharing proposal and the Planning Bill?

GST-sharing provides the financial incentive for councils to approve growth, while the Planning Bill aims to replace the Resource Management Act (RMA) to remove the planning barriers that create development slow and uncertain.

Do you believe financial incentives are the most effective way to encourage local councils to increase housing supply?

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Health

My toothache led to a grim discovery: The dental care system is full of cavities as you age

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

The Looming Dental Care Crisis: Why Millions of Seniors Are Facing a Painful Choice

A nagging toothache can be more than just a personal discomfort; it’s a symptom of a much larger problem plaguing the United States, particularly for those 65 and older. The state of oral healthcare accessibility is, as UCSF professor Elizabeth Mertz describes it, “a mess.”

The Cost Barrier: Why Dental Care is Out of Reach

For many seniors, the biggest obstacle to dental care isn’t a lack of need, but a lack of affordability. According to Mertz, “The No. 1 reason for delayed dental care is out-of-pocket costs.” Traditional dental insurance often provides limited coverage, especially for complex procedures like implants or bone grafts, leaving patients responsible for a significant portion of the bill – often capped around $1,500 annually.

This financial strain leads some to consider alternatives like Medicare Advantage plans with dental options. However, dentists caution against this, citing the limitations of supplemental Medicare plans.

Dental Tourism: A Growing Trend

Faced with high costs and limited insurance coverage, a growing number of Americans are turning to dental tourism. Countries like Mexico and Costa Rica offer significantly lower prices for procedures like implants. Dr. Oscar Ceballos, a dentist in Tijuana, reports that roughly 80% of his patients travel from the United States, even from as far away as Florida, Wisconsin, and Alaska. A dental implant that could cost between $3,000 and $5,000 in California might cost between $1,500 and $2,500 in his practice.

One patient, John Lane of San Diego, has been traveling to Mexico for dental work for nine years, citing both cost savings and quality of care.

The Impact of Medi-Cal Cuts in California

The situation could worsen in California due to proposed funding cuts to the Medi-Cal Dental program. These cuts threaten to reduce access to care for vulnerable residents. Robert Hanlon, president of the California Dental Association, warns that these cuts could force dentists to stop accepting Medi-Cal patients or limit the number they spot.

The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Wellbeing

Delaying dental care isn’t just about aesthetics or comfort; it has serious implications for overall health. Paul Glassman, associate dean of the California Northstate University dentistry school, emphasizes the clear association between dental problems and conditions like diabetes, heart problems, and other health issues.

The Role of Future Dental Professionals

Future dental professionals, like Somkene Okwuego, a student at USC’s Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry, are committed to addressing these disparities. Okwuego, who plans to work in clinics offering free or discounted care, sees “fixing the smiles” of her patients as a way to boost their self-image and improve their opportunities.

Did you know?

Dental problems can exacerbate existing health conditions, making preventative care even more crucial for seniors.

FAQ: Navigating the Dental Care Landscape

  • Why is dental care so expensive? High overhead costs for dental practices, specialized training, and limited insurance coverage contribute to the high cost of dental care.
  • Is dental tourism safe? While dental tourism can offer significant savings, it’s important to research the dentist’s qualifications and ensure the clinic meets international safety standards.
  • What are my options if I don’t have dental insurance? Consider community dental clinics, dental schools offering reduced-cost care, or exploring dental savings plans.

Pro Tip:

Don’t wait until you have a problem. Regular checkups and preventative care can save you money and discomfort in the long run.

The challenges facing seniors seeking affordable dental care are complex and multifaceted. Addressing this crisis will require innovative solutions, increased funding for programs like Medi-Cal, and a commitment from dental professionals to serve all members of the community.

Want to learn more about oral health resources in your area? Explore research from Elizabeth Mertz at UCSF.

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News

Who pays for Newsom’s travel? Hint: It’s not always taxpayers

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

SACRAMENTO — Gov. Gavin Newsom addressed world leaders at the Munich Security Conference in Germany on Friday, outlining his response to shifting federal climate priorities. He stated, “I’m showing up,” a commitment demonstrated through recent trips to Brazil, Switzerland, and Germany, where he has promoted California as a global climate partner.

This international travel has prompted questions regarding funding. In many instances, the costs are not covered by taxpayers. Instead, Newsom’s international travel is financed by the California State Protocol Foundation, a nonprofit funded primarily by corporate donations and overseen by a board appointed by the governor.

Did You Know? The California State Protocol Foundation was established as a tax-exempt charity during Republican Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s administration in 2004.

The use of nonprofits to fund gubernatorial travel dates back to the 1980s, with similar organizations created by Gov. George Deukmejian. Gov. Gray Davis increased their use in the early 2000s to cover travel, housing, and events. The foundation’s stated mission is to alleviate the financial burden on California taxpayers by covering expenses related to the state’s economic and diplomatic interests, according to Jason Elliott, a former advisor to Newsom and current board member.

Critics, however, argue that this arrangement provides corporate interests with increased influence. Donors to the foundation include healthcare companies like Centene and CVS Pharmacy, and a significant portion of revenue comes from nonprofits linked to individuals with business before the state. Carmen Balber, executive director of Consumer Watchdog, stated, “The problem with the protocol foundation and others like it is that donors to these foundations receive access to the politicians whose travel they fund.”

What is the foundation paying for?

The foundation covers the costs of Newsom’s international and some domestic travel, including trips to Climate Week in New York. It also funds travel for his staff. The governor’s office has not disclosed whether the foundation covers the cost of his security detail.

Financial disclosures show the foundation paid over $13,000 for Newsom’s 2024 trip to Italy, where he delivered a speech at the Vatican. Nearly $4,000 was spent on his trip to Mexico City for the inauguration of Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s first female president. Since taking office in 2019, Newsom has reported receiving $72,000 from the foundation for travel, staff events, and holiday gatherings. The foundation also paid $15,200 for his 2023 trip to China and $8,800 for his attendance at Super Bowl LIV in Miami in 2020.

Expert Insight: The reliance on private funding for official travel raises questions about transparency and potential conflicts of interest. Even as the stated goal is to reduce the burden on taxpayers, it simultaneously creates a pathway for donors to potentially influence policy decisions through access and contributions.

The foundation reported $1.3 million in revenue in 2024, with a remaining balance of less than $8,000 after expenses.

Who are the donors behind the foundation?

Donations solicited by Newsom are recorded as “behested payments” with the Fair Political Practices Commission. Last year, Resources Legacy Fund contributed $100,000, shortly after hiring Newsom’s former mayoral chief of staff. The U.S. Energy Foundation donated $150,000 for the California delegation’s attendance at COP30 in Brazil, and the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation donated $300,000 for the China trip. UC Berkeley gave $220,000 for the Vatican trip. Donations from Amazon-owned Zoox Inc. Totaled $80,000. Charities established for Newsom’s inaugurations have contributed over $5 million to the foundation since 2019, with backing from unions, corporations, and healthcare companies.

Past spending by the foundation has been criticized

A 2007 Los Angeles Times investigation revealed that during Schwarzenegger’s administration, $1.7 million in travel costs paid by the foundation were not fully disclosed. Expenses included leased jets costing up to $10,000 per hour and expensive hotel suites. Newsom’s office stated that he travels commercially, unlike his predecessor.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did California governors begin using nonprofits to fund travel?

Similar nonprofits have existed since Gov. George Deukmejian created one in the 1980s. The California State Protocol Foundation was created during Republican Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s administration in 2004.

What is a “behested payment”?

A behested payment occurs when an elected official solicits or suggests that a person or organization offer to another person or organization for a legislative, governmental or charitable purpose, and these payments are recorded with the Fair Political Practices Commission.

How much revenue did the foundation report in 2024?

The foundation reported total revenue of $1.3 million in 2024.

As California’s governor increasingly takes on a role in international climate diplomacy, how might the funding mechanisms supporting his travel shape perceptions of the state’s priorities and influence?

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Entertainment

Sally Mann Says ‘Film is So Expensive’ and Has Started Shooting Digital

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

The Shifting Sands of Photography: From Film’s Renaissance to Digital’s Embrace

The photographic world is in constant flux. While the resurgence of film has captivated a new generation, even icons like Sally Mann are acknowledging the practical and creative advantages of digital photography. This isn’t a death knell for film, but a sign of a maturing landscape where photographers are increasingly pragmatic about their tools.

The Economics of Image Making: Why Digital is Winning

Mann’s recent comments, reported by the BBC and Digital Camera World, highlight a crucial factor: cost. The expense of large format film – upwards of $12 per sheet – forces a level of deliberation that can stifle creativity. Digital, with its near-zero per-image cost, allows for experimentation and a more fluid workflow. This isn’t just about budget; it’s about artistic freedom. According to a 2023 report by Statista, global digital camera shipments, while fluctuating, remain significantly higher than film camera production, indicating a continued preference for digital convenience.

This economic pressure isn’t limited to large format. Even 35mm film, experiencing a revival, has seen price increases due to supply chain issues and renewed demand. A box of 36 exposures can easily cost $20+, plus development and scanning. For hobbyists and professionals alike, the cumulative cost can be prohibitive.

Beyond Cost: The Creative Allure of Digital

Mann’s embrace of digital isn’t solely about finances. She specifically mentions the “ease” and “fun” of color photography. Digital sensors and editing software offer unparalleled control over color palettes, allowing photographers to achieve nuanced and vibrant results that were historically difficult and time-consuming with film. The ability to instantly review and adjust images also fosters a more iterative creative process.

The use of a vintage Leica lens further illustrates this point. Photographers are increasingly combining the character of older glass with the convenience of digital bodies, creating unique aesthetics. This trend speaks to a desire for both nostalgia and modern efficiency.

The Ongoing Debate: Art, Censorship, and the Future of Photographic Expression

Sally Mann’s recent experience with the seizure of her work in Texas underscores a critical issue facing photographers today: artistic freedom and censorship. The incident, reminiscent of past controversies surrounding her work, highlights the fragility of artistic expression and the need for vigilance against unwarranted interference. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has been actively involved in defending artistic rights in similar cases, demonstrating the importance of legal advocacy in protecting creative freedom. ACLU

This event also raises questions about the interpretation of art and the potential for misrepresentation. Mann’s desire to move beyond being solely defined by her earlier, controversial work speaks to the evolving nature of artistic identity and the challenges of navigating public perception.

The Hybrid Approach: The Best of Both Worlds?

Interestingly, Mann still keeps her 8×10 view camera in the car. This suggests a hybrid approach is becoming increasingly common. Photographers aren’t necessarily abandoning film entirely, but rather integrating digital into their workflow as a complementary tool. This allows them to leverage the unique qualities of each medium – the tactile experience and aesthetic of film, and the convenience and versatility of digital.

Did you know? Many professional photographers now use digital for client work and film for personal projects, allowing them to balance commercial demands with artistic exploration.

Future Trends: Computational Photography and AI

Looking ahead, the integration of computational photography and artificial intelligence (AI) will further transform the landscape. AI-powered editing tools are already automating complex tasks like noise reduction and color correction. Future advancements may include AI-assisted composition and even the generation of entirely new images based on textual prompts. This raises both exciting possibilities and ethical concerns about the authenticity and authorship of photographs.

Pro Tip: Explore AI-powered editing plugins for your favorite photo editing software to streamline your workflow and enhance your images.

FAQ

  • Is film photography dying? No, film is experiencing a renaissance, but digital remains the dominant medium due to its cost-effectiveness and convenience.
  • What are the benefits of shooting with a vintage lens on a digital camera? Vintage lenses often have unique optical characteristics that can add character and a distinctive aesthetic to digital images.
  • How is AI impacting photography? AI is automating editing tasks, assisting with composition, and even generating new images, raising questions about authorship and authenticity.
  • What was the controversy surrounding Sally Mann’s work? Her intimate photographs of her children sparked debate about privacy and artistic expression.

What are your thoughts on the shift towards digital? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below!

Explore more articles on photography trends and digital imaging.

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News

Amid rising costs, California and L.A. initiatives aim to tax the ultra-rich

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

California is grappling with proposals to increase taxes on its wealthiest residents as the state faces an ongoing affordability crisis. Two distinct efforts are underway: a statewide “billionaire tax” and a Los Angeles city proposal targeting companies with highly compensated CEOs.

Statewide Billionaire Tax

A proposal for a statewide tax on billionaires—those with assets exceeding $1 billion—is currently seeking nearly 875,000 signatures to qualify for the November ballot. The tax, applicable to residents as of January 1, would be a one-time levy of up to 5% on assets, with the option to pay over five years. The Service Employees International Union-United Healthcare Workers West (SEIU-UHW) is the main backer of the measure, anticipating it will raise $100 billion, primarily for healthcare, food assistance, and education.

Did You Know? In October 2025, the collective wealth of California’s billionaires totaled $2.2 trillion, a significant increase from $300 billion in 2011.

However, the proposal faces opposition. Governor Gavin Newsom has voiced concerns that the tax could incentivize wealthy individuals to relocate, impacting the state’s revenue. The California Legislative Analyst’s Office estimates the state could lose “hundreds of millions of dollars or more per year” if billionaires choose to leave. Some billionaires, including DoorDash co-founder Andy Fang and PayPal/Palantir co-founder Peter Thiel, have already signaled intentions to move business interests or residency out of state.

Los Angeles “Overpaid CEO Tax”

In Los Angeles, union activists are pushing for a tax on companies whose CEOs earn at least 50 times more than their median-paid employee. This measure, supported by the Fair Games Coalition, would apply to companies with 1,000 or more employees and would allocate revenue to housing, infrastructure, and social programs. Supporters rallied outside the Tesla Diner, owned by Elon Musk, to highlight what they see as economic disparity.

Expert Insight: The proposals reflect a broader sentiment of retribution, particularly given the political climate and the association of wealth with figures like former President Trump, who recently dismissed concerns about affordability as a “con job.”

A similar effort to tax companies with disproportionately paid CEOs is also underway in San Francisco, where a levy on such businesses was approved in 2020.

What’s Next?

Supporters of the statewide billionaire tax must gather the required signatures by June 24 to secure a place on the November ballot. If successful, California voters will decide whether to implement the tax. It is possible that the debate will intensify as the election nears, with both proponents and opponents actively campaigning to sway public opinion. Should either measure pass, legal challenges are also a possibility. The outcome could significantly impact state and local revenue streams, as well as the future economic landscape of California.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the proposed statewide billionaire tax?

The proposal would impose a one-time tax of up to 5% on taxpayers and trusts with assets valued at more than $1 billion, applying to residents as of January 1.

How much money is the SEIU-UHW hoping to raise with the billionaire tax?

The Service Employees International Union-United Healthcare Workers West estimates the tax will raise $100 billion, with the majority allocated to healthcare programs.

What is the status of the “Overpaid CEO Tax” in Los Angeles?

Supporters of the Los Angeles measure must collect 140,000 signatures in the next 120 days to get it on the November ballot.

As California continues to grapple with economic challenges, will these proposals to tax the wealthy ultimately address affordability concerns or drive away valuable economic resources?

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Manila Bulletin – Decades of conflict cost thousands of lives, millions displaced—PIDS urges sustained peacebuilding

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Decades of armed conflict in the Philippines have resulted in significant loss of life and displacement, according to a recent discussion paper by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS). The report, published January 7, 2026, calls for a more coordinated and incentive-driven approach to peacebuilding within the country.

The Human Cost of Conflict

Researchers Adoracion M. Navarro and Janina Sofia H. Jacinto detailed the extensive impact of ongoing conflicts. Approximately 40,000 deaths have occurred in clashes between the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). An estimated 150,000 fatalities have been recorded in central and western Mindanao, and roughly 3.2 million people were displaced between 2008 and 2022.

Did You Know? Between 2008 and 2022, approximately 3.2 million people were displaced by violence in the Philippines.

Aligning Incentives for Lasting Peace

The PIDS paper emphasizes that successful peacebuilding isn’t simply about signing agreements. It’s about avoiding future human and social costs. Researchers found that aligning economic, political, and security incentives, coupled with credible and long-lasting state commitments, is crucial for achieving lasting peace. “Steadfast peacebuilding pays off economically,” the report states.

Recommendations for Improvement

To strengthen peacebuilding efforts, PIDS recommends interventions designed around “incentive compatibility,” where cooperation is more beneficial than continued conflict for all involved. The report also suggests closely aligning security measures with socioeconomic programs. Further recommendations include digitalizing monitoring and evaluation systems for programs like the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) and barangay-level development projects.

Expert Insight: The emphasis on aligning incentives represents a shift towards a more pragmatic approach to peacebuilding. Recognizing that all parties must benefit from peace is a critical step in moving beyond cycles of violence, but requires sustained commitment and careful implementation.

PIDS also proposed a special audit by the Commission on Audit (COA) for peacebuilding and reintegration programs – including ECLIP, PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn (PAMANA), and the Barangay Development Program (BDP) – to address efficiency gaps. Reconciliation ceremonies, particularly those highlighting the roles of women, and the involvement of neutral facilitators like civil society organizations, faith groups, and academics, were also recommended.

Lessons from Thailand

Addressing ongoing negotiations with the CPP-NPA-National Democratic Front (NDF), the report suggests the Philippines could draw lessons from Thailand’s experience in ending its own communist insurgency. Thailand’s approach involved military containment, amnesty, and political and socioeconomic inclusion. The PIDS paper suggests a similar strategy could inform remaining peacebuilding work in the Philippines.

Ultimately, the report stresses the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict, particularly in rural and indigenous communities, through local engagement, dialogue, and inclusive political participation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main argument of the PIDS paper?

The main argument is that peacebuilding in the Philippines requires more than just signing agreements; it demands coordinated, sustained efforts with aligned economic, political, and security incentives, and credible state commitments.

What specific conflicts are addressed in the report?

The report addresses decades-long conflicts including clashes between the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and conflicts in central and western Mindanao.

What role does the Commission on Audit (COA) play in the PIDS recommendations?

PIDS suggests a special audit by the Commission on Audit (COA) for peacebuilding and reintegration programs to address efficiency gaps across initiatives such as ECLIP, PAMANA, and BDP.

How can a focus on incentives and long-term commitment contribute to a more peaceful future for communities affected by conflict?

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Cyclone Gabrielle: Kererū Gorge culvert rebuild cost $30m after original estimate of $13m

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

The Kererū Gorge culvert in Hawke’s Bay, vital for connecting a Hastings community severed by Cyclone Gabrielle, has reopened after a rebuild that ultimately cost $30.3 million. This is significantly higher than the initial estimate of $13.5 million.

The Background

Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023 caused “catastrophic” damage to the Kererū Gorge, washing away a 50-meter section of Kererū Road and creating an 18-meter-deep gully. For over two years, residents relied on a winding, gravelly detour to access their community. The newly completed 15-meter-wide segmented culvert restores a crucial link, but at a substantial financial increase.

Did You Know? Construction of the culvert began before complete site investigations and detailed design were finished, a decision made to expedite recovery efforts following the cyclone.

The additional $16.8 million in costs were fully covered by the National Infrastructure Funding and Financing. According to the Hastings District Council, the increase stemmed from unexpectedly unstable ground conditions that necessitated design changes and caused significant delays. Over $27 million of the total cost went to contractors, equipment, and materials, while just over $3 million covered design, consulting, environmental studies, and land acquisition.

Darren de Klerk, the council’s director of infrastructure delivery, explained that initial estimates were based on typical rates for similar structures, made before the extent of the damage was fully understood. “As the first test piles were drilled, we discovered the ground was much less stable than expected,” he said, leading to a more complex and costly project.

The situation required significant engineering adjustments, including reinforcing the structure, diverting streams, and stabilizing the soil. One pile alone required 75% more concrete than originally planned. De Klerk noted that under normal circumstances, a project of this scale would require one to two years of investigation and design *before* construction began. However, the urgency of the situation meant the project was essentially built “while flying the plane,” with engineers working just weeks ahead of construction crews.

Other Hastings District Bridge Rebuild Costs

Information released alongside the Kererū Gorge culvert costs indicates that other post-cyclone bridge and culvert projects in the Hastings district have largely remained within their initial budgets. The Moteo-Puketapu bridge came in at $26 million, slightly under its $28 million estimate. The Chrystal Twin Culvert cost $3.4 million, compared to an estimate of $3.5 million. The Matapiro Bridge rebuild was remarkably under budget at $5.07 million, compared to an initial estimate of $9 million. The Patoka Culvert cost $2.5 million, slightly over its $2.3 million estimate.

Expert Insight: The Kererū Gorge culvert rebuild highlights the inherent challenges of post-disaster infrastructure projects. Expediting construction to address immediate needs can lead to unforeseen costs when site conditions prove more complex than initially assessed. This case underscores the importance of balancing speed of response with thorough upfront investigation, even when time is of the essence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the cost overrun on the Kererū Gorge culvert?

Unstable ground conditions discovered during construction led to significant delays and required substantial changes to the original design, resulting in the increased cost.

How was the additional cost of the culvert funded?

The extra $16.8 million was 100% funded by the National Infrastructure Funding and Financing.

Were other Hastings district rebuilds also over budget?

Information indicates that other bridge and culvert rebuilds in the Hastings district have largely been constructed near to, or below, their initial estimates.

As the Hastings District continues to rebuild following Cyclone Gabrielle, will the lessons learned from the Kererū Gorge culvert project inform future infrastructure planning and budgeting decisions?

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