Crypto Briefing • October 11th 2026, 4:55 PM
Amazon drops NDA for US data centers, joins Microsoft
Key Summary
Amazon Web Services has ended its practice of entering into non-disclosure agreements with government agencies for its data center projects, following Microsoft's similar move. The change aims to repair relations with local communities and is part of a new program called Built Together, which promises over $1 billion in community investments over five years.
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New Era in Data Center Negotiations
Amazon Web Services has announced that it will no longer enter into non-disclosure agreements with government agencies for its data center projects. This change follows Microsoft's similar move in March 2026.Why the Shift?
The practice of entering into NDAs has been a point of contention for local communities, who feel that deals are struck behind closed doors and confidentiality clauses become a symbol of distrust. By ending this practice, Amazon aims to repair relations with local communities and increase transparency.Built Together Program
As part of this shift, Amazon has also launched a new program called Built Together, which promises over $1 billion in community investments over the next five years. This program is focused on education, job creation, and energy accessibility in areas that host Amazon's data centers.Implications for Big Tech's AI Buildout
The change has significant implications for Big Tech's AI buildout, as it allows local governments to discuss terms with constituents without legal constraints hanging over the conversation. This shift also puts pressure on other major tech companies, such as Google, to explain their own practices and consider similar changes.#AWS#US#Crypto#DataCenter