Allbirds Rebrands to Smartbird, Stock Climbs 30% on AI Pivot
Allbirds stock surged over 30% after the company rebranded to Smartbird and named former AWS quantum computing head Nadia Carlsten as CEO. The move continues its April announcement pivoting from sustainable sneakers to enterprise-grade AI infrastructure targeting high-performance AI chips and data center solutions.
1. Stock Reaction and April Pivot
Shares of Allbirds jumped more than 30% on the news, adding to a 30% year-to-date gain following an initial 600% surge in April when the company first announced its AI infrastructure pivot. Investors have reacted to the promise of high-growth potential in enterprise-grade AI hardware over the traditional footwear market.
2. Rebrand and Leadership Change
The company officially changed its name to Smartbird and appointed Nadia Carlsten—formerly head of product for AWS’s quantum computing arm—as CEO and board director. Carlsten’s background includes leading AI infrastructure ventures and positions with Google spin-off SandboxAQ and AI firm DCAI, underscoring a strategic shift toward advanced technology leadership.
3. Strategy and Market Opportunity
Smartbird aims to provide scalable AI chips and data center solutions to enterprise customers outside hyperscaler ecosystems. Analysts estimate AI capital expenditures could reach $5.5 trillion by 2030, highlighting a significant addressable market for the company’s high-performance infrastructure offerings.
