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AI Startups Raise Record $171 Billion Amid Market Fears

3/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

In February 2026, fears of an AI bubble affected the stock market.
Ultra-wealthy family offices continued to invest heavily in AI startups.
Fintrx data show 41 investments, including a $1 billion World Labs fundraising, a $315 million Runway Series E, and Hillspire's Goodfire investment.
AI startups raised a record $171 billion in February 2026, funding Anthropic and OpenAI.
Eric Schmidt, ex-Google CEO, expressed optimism about AI, dismissing dot-com comparisons.

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Story summary

In February 2026, fears of an AI bubble affected the stock market.
Ultra-wealthy family offices continued to invest heavily in AI startups.
Fintrx data show 41 investments, including a $1 billion World Labs fundraising, a $315 million Runway Series E, and Hillspire's Goodfire investment.
AI startups raised a record $171 billion in February 2026, funding Anthropic and OpenAI.
Eric Schmidt, ex-Google CEO, expressed optimism about AI, dismissing dot-com comparisons.