Simply the latest news, updated on the hour.

Fri, Oct 23, 2026, 7:02 AM EDT

Tech

  • OpenAI is reportedly in talks to raise $30 billion at a $1.25 trillion valuation, signaling ambitious plans ahead of a potential IPO.

  • Rivian is acquiring a world model startup to bolster its autonomous driving capabilities, indicating a significant push into self-driving technology.

  • The competition in AI decision models is intensifying as OpenAI makes its Jev competitor widely available, alongside Microsoft's Mustafa Suleyman highlighting AI's advancements in medical diagnostics.

  • Mark Zuckerberg is exploring creative strategies to manage Meta's assets and potentially counter California's proposed billionaire tax, aiming to retain control.

  • Oura has filed a second lawsuit against its rival Ultrahuman, attempting to impede the latter's re-entry into the U.S. smart ring market.

Money

  • Global markets are showing volatility, with oil prices surging due to persistent Middle East tensions and AI-related stock market fears causing broader declines.

  • The cryptocurrency sector is experiencing mixed signals, with Bitcoin ETFs seeing significant inflows but facing price corrections, while regulatory scrutiny and security concerns impact various platforms.

  • Artificial Intelligence continues to be a dominant theme, driving investment and innovation, but also raising concerns about oversight, potential bubbles, and the ethical implications of its rapid development.

  • Geopolitical conflicts and trade disputes are impacting economies, from Ukraine's reliance on Starlink to trade tensions between Canada and the US, and ongoing unrest in France.

  • The UK's economic landscape is marked by rising inflation and wage growth, prompting discussions about interest rate hikes, while the government aims to manage borrowing ahead of the budget.

Power

  • Global oil prices have surged to a five-month high, driven by escalating attacks that threaten crucial supply routes, prompting the US to order some diplomats to depart Saudi Arabia.

  • European automakers are facing significant challenges and losing market share, particularly in the electric vehicle sector, as they struggle to compete globally.

  • Disruptions in France, including extensive riots and protests, are severely impacting the nation's vital tourism industry, raising concerns about economic stability.

  • Artificial intelligence is creating both opportunities and anxieties, with rapid advancements leading to job security fears for some and critical security flaws impacting global websites.

  • The political landscape remains dynamic with ongoing elections, legal challenges, and shifting geopolitical alliances, including significant developments in the US, Brazil, and the Middle East.