Snap rockets 18% higher on $400 million deal with Perplexity AI

Core Insights - Snap stock surged 18% following the announcement of a $400 million deal with AI startup Perplexity AI, despite a year-to-date decline of 21% in shares [1][4] - The partnership aims to integrate AI features into Snapchat's user interface, enhancing user experience and engagement [1][2] - This move positions Snapchat to better compete with larger social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, which have been adapting to an AI-driven landscape [2][3] Company Developments - Snap's CEO, Evan Spiegel, emphasized the goal of making AI more personal and social, indicating a strategic shift towards enhancing user connections through AI [2] - The integration of Perplexity's features is expected to attract users back to the platform, potentially revitalizing Snap's stock performance [3][4] - Perplexity's CEO highlighted the alignment of their mission with Snapchat's user engagement, suggesting a strong collaborative effort to enhance user curiosity and discovery [4]