Simply the latest news, updated on the hour.

Sat, Oct 24, 2026, 9:02 AM EDT

Tech

  • Startups are finding that viral growth isn't the only path to acquiring customers, shifting focus to sustainable acquisition strategies.

  • OpenAI is adjusting its AI model training by excluding live internet data due to perceived significant risks, signaling a move towards more controlled development environments.

  • Nvidia's CEO highlighted the growing interest in AI-powered toys, with Microduck robots selling out, indicating a strong consumer demand for AI-enhanced entertainment.

  • Venture capitalists and tech leaders are emphasizing the critical importance of product-market fit, warning founders about common pitfalls.

  • The TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026 will feature discussions focused on the immediate challenges faced by startup founders across various industries.

Money

  • Geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning Iran and the Middle East, are driving up oil prices and raising fears of further conflict escalation.

  • Protests and social unrest continue in France, leading to significant security deployments and concerns about the country's stability and economic outlook.

  • The Bank of Japan is closely monitoring inflation, with Governor Ueda emphasizing the need to keep it below 2% to maintain economic stability.

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) development is a major focus at global financial summits, with discussions ranging from boom-or-bust scenarios to security risks and investment strategies.

  • The cryptocurrency market is experiencing volatility, with Bitcoin prices fluctuating amid news of ETF flows, regulatory scrutiny, and ongoing debates about AI's impact on security and market stability.

Power

  • US energy security is a growing concern, with the designation of helium as a critical material and efforts to boost oil production, alongside scrutiny of energy infrastructure like data centers potentially going offline.

  • Geopolitical tensions continue to impact global energy markets, with discussions around LNG supply, potential conflicts affecting oil production, and concerns about Chinese dominance in rare earth materials.

  • The power sector is grappling with the increasing integration of AI, from data centers to potential AI-driven power empires, while also facing security challenges like AI exploiting critical system flaws.

  • Regulatory and political landscapes are shifting significantly, with potential shifts in US midterm elections impacting policy and international trade, and European nations considering new regulations for online content and trade with China.

  • The transition to cleaner energy sources and the management of environmental issues remain pertinent, evidenced by discussions on carbon pricing, the impact of climate events, and ongoing debates about sustainable practices in various industries.