Only one notable event was recorded for Oakland during this monitoring window. On July 25, WWE SmackDown broadcast live from Oakland, building storylines ahead of the upcoming SummerSlam event.
The July 25 episode of WWE SmackDown, broadcast live from Oakland, California, featured a verbal confrontation between WWE Champion CM Punk and Cody Rhodes ahead of SummerSlam. Charlotte Flair defeated Nia Jax to qualify for the women’s interim title ladder match. The episode also addressed potential US title defense by Trick Williams and the status of tag team champions R-Truth and Damian Priest, building anticipation for the two-night SummerSlam event in Minneapolis.
A federal judge in San Francisco approved Anthropic's $1.5 billion settlement—the largest U.S. copyright case payout—over claims it used pirated books from sites like Library Genesis to train its Claude chatbot. The court ruled AI training on copyrighted text is fair use, but storing millions of pirated books violated rights. Over 91% of eligible authors claimed shares; some opted out for separate lawsuits. The settlement does not set binding precedent, leaving similar cases against Google, Meta, and OpenAI ongoing.
This is the transcript of PG&E Corporation's second quarter 2026 earnings call, held on July 23, 2026. The call was led by CEO Patricia Poppe and CFO Carolyn Burke, with opening remarks from VP of Investor Relations Jonathan Arnold. The discussion covers the company's financial results for Q2 2026, including forward-looking statements about future performance. Key participants include analysts from Wells Fargo, Wolfe Research, Barclays, Goldman Sachs, Truist, Morgan Stanley, Mizuho, UBS, and Citigroup. The call includes standard disclaimers about forward-looking statements and non-GAAP financial measures. The presentation slides provide reconciliations between non-GAAP and GAAP metrics. The call was conducted from PG&E's Oakland headquarters.
This Brookings Institution report examines how local leaders in Chicago, Oakland, and Washington D.C. are scaling community-centered public safety solutions amid federal funding cuts and policy uncertainty. The research, conducted in partnership with LISC, emphasizes place-based, ecosystem approaches that integrate prevention, intervention, and response, along with cross-sector partners in economic and workforce development. It argues that evidence-based local policies can reduce crime, rebuild trust, and increase economic opportunity in impacted neighborhoods. The report draws on qualitative interviews and the Community-Centered Economic Inclusion (CCEI) model, highlighting that most Americans agree on the importance of safety, jobs, and health, making such policies a win-win. The findings aim to provide actionable strategies for localities facing public safety challenges.
A high-stakes trial in California features Elon Musk suing OpenAI, Sam Altman, and Microsoft for allegedly abandoning the AI firm’s original nonprofit mission. Musk seeks $150 billion in damages and leadership changes, claiming betrayal of his early donations. Key testimonies from Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and former OpenAI scientist Ilya Sutskever reveal intense internal conflicts, financial stakes, and governance disputes. The outcome will significantly impact OpenAI’s corporate structure, future IPO prospects, and the broader competitive landscape of the artificial intelligence industry.
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches its June 11 kickoff, participating nations are finalizing their logistics by selecting base camps across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. These camps serve as primary hubs for pre-tournament training, acclimatization, and accommodation during the group stages. The article details specific arrangements for several teams, highlighting the strategic choices made to minimize travel and optimize performance. Algeria has established its base in Lawrence, Kansas, near its opening match venue. Defending champions Argentina will stay in Kansas City, Missouri, utilizing elite facilities at the Sporting KC Performance Center with heightened security. Australia has chosen Oakland, California, while Austria will train at the University of California, Santa Barbara. These locations, ranging from university sports complexes to luxury hotels, were selected from a FIFA-approved catalogue. While host nations enjoy logistical advantages, visiting teams must adapt to new climates and time zones. The base camps will primarily be used until the end of the group stage on June 27, after which advancing teams may relocate closer to knockout match venues.
Olympic gold medalist figure skater Alysa Liu is returning to her hometown in the Bay Area to perform in the Stars on Ice tour at the SAP Center in San Jose. In an interview with ABC7 Eyewitness News, the Oakland native discussed her transition into life as a global superstar and cultural icon following her Olympic victory. Liu expressed excitement about performing for family and friends, noting the unique energy of hometown crowds compared to the broader tour atmosphere. She reflected on the importance of sportsmanship, viewing fellow skaters as friends rather than rivals. Since winning gold, Liu has experienced a glamorous shift in lifestyle, including attending the Met Gala, while striving to remain grounded through her support system. During AAPI Heritage Month, she emphasized pride in her half-Chinese heritage and her desire to represent the community positively. While currently focused on show skating, Liu hinted at exploring new projects and did not rule out a return to competitive skating, possibly targeting the 2030 Olympics. The event features other prominent Team USA athletes, marking a significant homecoming for Liu.
Business Insider reporter Stephen Council observed OpenAI CEO Sam Altman testify in the high-stakes legal battle against Elon Musk in Oakland. The trial centers on Musk's allegations that Altman and former president Greg Brockman misappropriated OpenAI's original nonprofit mission for commercial gain. While Altman delivered his characteristic optimistic pitch regarding AI's potential benefits, such as advancements in healthcare and economic preparation, his performance under cross-examination drew significant attention. Council noted that Altman struggled to provide definitive answers to challenging questions about his trustworthiness. When asked by Musk's lawyer if he was completely trustworthy, Altman initially hesitated before amending his answer to a simple yes. This interaction marked a stark contrast to his usual confident public persona, revealing vulnerabilities in his defense strategy. The testimony highlights the intense scrutiny Altman faces as he fights to maintain control over OpenAI amidst accusations of betraying its charitable roots. The outcome of this trial carries substantial implications for the governance and future direction of one of the world's most influential artificial intelligence companies.
Jury deliberations are set to begin in the high-profile civil trial between Elon Musk and OpenAI executives Sam Altman and Greg Brockman. The three-week testimony phase concluded in Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers’s Oakland courtroom, with closing arguments wrapping up on Thursday. Notably, Musk was absent for the closings, attending a state visit to Beijing with former President Donald Trump’s delegation instead. The lawsuit centers on allegations that OpenAI’s 2025 transition from a nonprofit to a capped-profit structure breached charitable trust obligations regarding Musk’s early donations. Musk seeks up to $134 billion in disgorgement to restore the nonprofit status and remove current leadership, while the defense argues no enforceable commitments were made and legal procedures were followed. Microsoft, a co-defendant, defended its investments as crucial for OpenAI’s survival. Although the nine-person jury provides an advisory verdict on liability, Judge Rogers retains final authority over remedies. This case is viewed as a precedent-setting event for the governance of AI laboratories transitioning from charitable origins to commercial entities, with significant implications for the tech industry.
Closing arguments have concluded in the federal trial where Elon Musk sues OpenAI, alleging the organization breached its founding nonprofit mission to enrich insiders. Musk’s legal team attacked the credibility of CEO Sam Altman, citing testimony from former board members and scientists who labeled Altman a liar. They argued OpenAI prioritized investor profits over AI safety and accused Microsoft of aiding this misconduct. In response, OpenAI’s lawyers dismissed Musk’s claims as false accusations driven by his desire for control. They characterized Musk’s lawsuit as untimely, noting he had years to act despite knowing about OpenAI’s shift toward a for-profit model. Lawyers accused Musk of 'selective amnesia' regarding term sheets he claimed not to read. The defense highlighted that other founders refused to hand over control of artificial general intelligence to Musk. With the trial ending in Oakland, California, the nine-person jury is set to begin deliberations. The outcome will determine if OpenAI must restructure or pay damages, or if Musk’s claims are entirely dismissed.
Closing arguments have concluded in the federal trial where Elon Musk sues OpenAI and its leaders for breach of charitable trust and unjust enrichment. Musk’s legal team accused CEO Sam Altman of lying and prioritizing investor enrichment over AI safety, seeking approximately $150 billion in damages and the removal of Altman and President Greg Brockman. Conversely, OpenAI’s lawyers characterized Musk’s claims as baseless, accusing him of 'selective amnesia' regarding his knowledge of the company's necessary shift to a for-profit model. They argued that Musk attempted to gain control over Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) development and filed the lawsuit past the statute of limitations. The defense highlighted that Musk, despite his business sophistication, claimed ignorance of key term sheets from 2018. Microsoft, also named in the suit, maintained it was a responsible partner unaware of any wrongful conduct. The trial, held in Oakland, California, underscores growing public and legal scrutiny over AI governance and corporate structure as the technology increasingly penetrates society.
The first phase of the high-profile legal battle between Elon Musk and OpenAI has concluded in federal court in Oakland, California. Following closing arguments from both sides, the nine-person jury is scheduled to begin deliberations on Monday. The jury’s verdict will be advisory only, with Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers retaining the authority to make the final decision on liability. Simultaneously, the trial will enter its second stage, the remedies phase, where the judge will hear arguments regarding potential damages and structural changes if defendants are found liable. Musk sued OpenAI, CEO Sam Altman, and president Greg Brockman in 2024, alleging they breached commitments to maintain the organization as a nonprofit and unjustly enriched themselves. His legal team seeks up to $134 billion in damages and the removal of Altman and Brockman. OpenAI’s defense argues that no such binding commitments were made and that Musk’s lawsuit is motivated by competition from his own AI venture, xAI. Microsoft, also named as a defendant, denied knowledge of any alleged breaches.
Closing arguments have concluded in the high-stakes federal trial between Elon Musk and OpenAI, with a nine-member jury set to begin deliberations next week. The case centers on whether OpenAI executives Sam Altman and Greg Brockman breached the organization's founding nonprofit mission by accepting Microsoft investments and transitioning to a for-profit model. Musk, a co-founder who left in 2018, alleges this shift constituted theft of a charity dedicated to safe AI development. He is seeking $150 billion in damages, the removal of Altman from the board, and the unwinding of OpenAI's corporate restructuring ahead of a potential IPO. Conversely, OpenAI argues Musk’s lawsuit stems from sour grapes over his departure before the company achieved its current success. The verdict holds seismic implications for the artificial intelligence industry, potentially crippling OpenAI and reshaping the tech landscape. The trial, held in Oakland, California, followed nearly three weeks of testimony regarding the evolution of one of the world's most powerful AI labs and its complex relationship with its controversial co-founder.
Activist and filmmaker Boots Riley premiered his sophomore feature film, 'I Love Boosters,' at the historic Grand Lake Theatre in Oakland, just days before International Worker’s Day. The event, part of the San Francisco International Film Festival, highlighted Riley’s continued critique of capitalism, this time focusing on exploitation within the fashion industry. The surreal satire features Keke Palmer as a leader of shoplifting women and Demi Moore as an eccentric designer, blending sci-fi elements with Marxist philosophy. Following the screening, Riley and cast members, including LaKeith Stanfield, discussed the film's themes of unity and challenging systemic structures. Riley described the production process as smoother than his debut, 'Sorry to Bother You,' and expressed pride in the performances and cinematic innovation. The article also includes an interview where Riley reflects on his inspirations and the resonance of his dystopian narratives in contemporary society. The film is scheduled for theatrical release on May 22, aiming to push artistic boundaries while addressing social issues through a unique, supernatural lens.
Public attention has focused on the Ronald V. Dellums U.S. Courthouse in Oakland, California, where a significant legal proceeding is currently underway. Crowds gathered outside the federal building last month, reflecting the high level of community interest and anticipation surrounding the case. The central focus now shifts to the jury, who must carefully weigh the evidence presented during the trial to reach a verdict. This moment marks a critical juncture in the judicial process, as the jurors deliberate on the facts to determine the outcome. The presence of onlookers underscores the societal impact of the trial, highlighting its importance beyond the courtroom walls. As the jury begins their deliberations, the legal community and the public alike await the final decision, which will have lasting implications for the parties involved and potentially set precedents for similar cases in the future. The atmosphere outside the courthouse remains tense yet orderly, symbolizing the gravity of the justice system at work.
Closing arguments concluded the high-profile trial between Elon Musk and OpenAI, marked by sharp personal attacks and conflicting narratives regarding the company's founding mission. Musk’s attorney, Steven Molo, aggressively questioned CEO Sam Altman’s trustworthiness, using metaphors to suggest Altman prioritized commercial gain over public benefit. He highlighted Altman’s hesitant testimony and criticized co-founder Greg Brockman’s character. Conversely, OpenAI’s legal team, led by Sarah Eddy, dismissed Musk’s claims as baseless, asserting that no binding charitable trust existed and that Musk’s donations had no strings attached. They emphasized that numerous witnesses contradicted Musk’s version of events and noted the overwhelming employee support for Altman during his 2023 ouster. Musk is seeking approximately $150 billion in damages and an order to reverse OpenAI’s for-profit structure. The three-week proceedings in Oakland featured testimony from major tech figures, including Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and OpenAI co-founder Ilya Sutskever. The trial underscored deep rifts in Silicon Valley, with both sides leveraging embarrassing anecdotes and character assessments to sway the jury in this landmark case concerning the future of artificial intelligence governance.
During the closing arguments of Elon Musk’s federal lawsuit against OpenAI in Oakland, California, Musk’s attorney Steven Molo apologized to jurors for the tech billionaire’s absence. Musk traveled to China to join President Donald Trump and other U.S. business executives on an official state visit, despite the presiding judge explicitly stating that he was not excused from testimony and could be recalled. The attorney urged jurors not to interpret the absence negatively, emphasizing Musk’s passion for the case. The three-week trial centers on Musk’s allegation that OpenAI betrayed its nonprofit origins by creating a for-profit arm with outside investors. OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman counter that a nonprofit foundation retains control and that Musk had previously agreed to the structural changes. This high-profile legal battle highlights tensions between Musk and former colleagues regarding the direction of artificial intelligence development. The incident underscores the conflict between Musk’s political engagements and his ongoing legal obligations, drawing significant media attention as the trial nears its conclusion.
In a significant legal development with potential far-reaching implications for the artificial intelligence industry, lawyers representing Elon Musk and OpenAI have commenced their closing arguments in a high-profile trial held in Oakland, California. This landmark case is being closely watched by tech experts, legal scholars, and industry leaders alike, as its outcome is expected to shape the future regulatory and operational landscape of AI technology. The trial centers on disputes between the Tesla and SpaceX CEO and the AI research laboratory he co-founded. As both sides present their final statements, the court's decision could set critical precedents regarding corporate governance, intellectual property rights, and the ethical development of advanced AI systems. The proceedings mark a pivotal moment in the ongoing tension between private innovation and corporate accountability in the rapidly evolving tech sector. The verdict will likely influence how AI companies are structured and regulated moving forward, making this one of the most important tech-related legal battles in recent years.
Closing arguments have commenced in the federal courtroom battle between Elon Musk and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in Oakland, California. A nine-person jury is now poised to deliberate on whether OpenAI and Altman are liable for allegedly breaching the company's founding non-profit agreement. Musk accuses Altman and president Greg Brockman of restructuring OpenAI into a for-profit entity for personal gain, thereby violating their initial pact to keep the organization non-profit. In response, OpenAI argues that Musk’s lawsuit stems from jealousy after his failed 2018 takeover bid and asserts that he was always aware of the transition plans. The trial has exposed private communications and highlighted the deteriorating relationship between the tech moguls. Musk’s attorney emphasized Altman’s alleged lack of credibility, urging jurors not to trust the defendant's version of events. Conversely, OpenAI’s defense portrays Musk as erratic and vengeful. This high-profile case has captivated Silicon Valley, offering insights into the contentious history of one of the world's most influential AI firms and raising significant questions about corporate governance in the tech industry.
Sam Altman, the chief executive of OpenAI, appeared as a witness in a federal court in Oakland, California, on Tuesday. The high-profile testimony is part of ongoing legal proceedings involving Elon Musk. During the session, Musk's legal representative directly challenged Altman's credibility by asking him whether he is trustworthy. This line of questioning underscores the intense scrutiny and adversarial nature of the case, which has drawn significant attention from the technology sector and the general public. The courtroom exchange highlights the deepening rift between two of the most prominent figures in the artificial intelligence industry. As the CEO of OpenAI, Altman's testimony is crucial to the factual record being established in this federal lawsuit. The event marks a significant day in the litigation, with both parties presenting their arguments before the court. The outcome of these proceedings could have broader implications for corporate governance and leadership dynamics within major tech companies. The focus remains on the specific legal claims and the personal interactions between these industry leaders as the trial progresses.
The high-profile legal battle between Elon Musk and OpenAI has entered its final phase at a federal court in Oakland, California. Closing arguments are scheduled as Musk’s legal team seeks to convince the jury that OpenAI leaders, including CEO Sam Altman, breached their charitable trust by converting the nonprofit into a for-profit entity. Musk accuses the defendants of straying from the original mission to build safe AI for humanity’s benefit, alleging they manipulated him into donating $38 million before securing billions from investors like Microsoft. He is seeking approximately $150 billion in damages to be paid to OpenAI’s nonprofit arm and demands the removal of Altman and President Greg Brockman. OpenAI counters that the restructuring strengthened the organization and claims Musk merely sought control. The case, overseen by Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, involves significant implications for AI governance and corporate structure. With Microsoft having invested over $100 billion, the trial also highlights intense competition in the AI sector, involving Musk’s xAI and Anthropic. Jury deliberations are imminent, with potential discussions on restructuring if no verdict is reached immediately.
The high-stakes legal battle between Elon Musk and OpenAI has entered its final stages in a federal court in Oakland, California. Musk’s attorney, Steven Molo, aggressively challenged the credibility of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and President Greg Brockman during closing arguments. Molo urged jurors to doubt the defendants' honesty, asserting that their testimony failed to unequivocally demonstrate integrity. Musk is suing OpenAI for breach of charitable trust and unjust enrichment, alleging that Altman and Brockman strayed from the nonprofit’s original mission to benefit humanity by converting it into a for-profit entity designed to enrich themselves. Musk claims he was manipulated into contributing $38 million before the leaders secretly partnered with Microsoft, securing tens of billions in investment. He seeks approximately $150 billion in damages to be paid to OpenAI’s nonprofit arm and demands the removal of Altman and Brockman from their roles. OpenAI counters that the for-profit structure strengthens the organization and accuses Musk of seeking control. The trial’s outcome could significantly influence OpenAI’s future, including its potential initial public offering, amidst growing competition in the artificial intelligence sector.
The high-stakes legal battle between Elon Musk and OpenAI has reached its closing arguments in a federal court in Oakland, California. Musk is suing OpenAI, CEO Sam Altman, and President Greg Brockman for breach of charitable trust and unjust enrichment. He alleges that the defendants deviated from OpenAI’s original nonprofit mission to build safe AI for humanity, instead transforming it into a for-profit vehicle to enrich themselves and secure billions from investors like Microsoft. Musk seeks approximately $150 billion in damages to be paid to OpenAI’s nonprofit arm and demands the removal of Altman and Brockman from their leadership roles. OpenAI counters that its current structure strengthens the organization and accuses Musk of seeking control. The trial, overseen by Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, occurs amidst growing public scrutiny of AI technology. If the jury does not reach a verdict immediately, the court will proceed to discuss potential restructuring remedies and damages. This case highlights significant tensions in the AI industry as OpenAI prepares for a potential IPO valued at up to $1 trillion, while Musk’s competing venture, xAI, integrates with SpaceX.
The Oakland Athletics are experiencing a positive turnaround in the 2026 season, both on the field and in their broadcast booth. Currently leading the AL West with a 22-20 record, the team has introduced Chris and Stefan Caray, fourth-generation broadcasters and great-grandsons of the legendary Harry Caray, for their first Major League series together on NBC Sports California. The twin brothers called games against the St. Louis Cardinals, marking a significant career milestone. Chris Caray, who began filling in for Jenny Cavnar this season, and Stefan, a radio voice for the Cardinals, expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to share the booth. This move addresses recent criticism of the A's previous broadcasting team, which ranked last in local MLB broadcast ratings. The Caray family lineage includes Chip Caray, Skip Caray, and Harry Caray, adding historical prestige to the Athletics' efforts to refresh their media presence amidst the franchise's controversial transition from Oakland to Las Vegas via Sacramento.
This article reviews Roland Betancourt’s book, 'Disneyland and the Rise of Automation,' which explores how Disneyland served as a cultural bridge for Americans to accept postwar industrial automation. Betancourt argues that the theme park aestheticized mechanical processes, transforming hidden factory technologies into visible, palatable entertainment. By showcasing animatronics and automated rides, Disneyland taught visitors to embrace the machines undergirding modern life, from Programmable Logic Controllers to automotive sensors. The book traces Walt Disney’s inspiration from Ford’s River Rouge plant, where automation was developed to mitigate labor unrest and human fatigue. Unlike the grim reality of factory assembly lines, Disneyland presented automation as magical and fun, effectively camouflaging the cold logic of servomechanisms within childhood fantasy. This shift helped normalize the presence of technology in daily life, making the 'machines in the garden' a celebrated metaphor for the automated era. The review highlights Betancourt’s analysis of how Disney’s innovations in transportation and recording during the 1950s and 60s demystified technology, turning potential fear of mechanization into enthusiastic acceptance through the guise of Hollywood cartoons and festive attractions.
New documents submitted in Elon Musk’s federal lawsuit against OpenAI reveal that CEO Sam Altman holds over $2 billion in stakes across nine companies with commercial contracts with OpenAI. Key investments include $1.7 billion in nuclear fusion firm Helion Energy and $633 million in payment processor Stripe. Musk is seeking $150 billion in damages and Altman’s removal, alleging unauthorized parallel investments and conflicts of interest. Altman defends his actions, stating he adhered to internal protocols, with board approval and independent evaluations for major deals like Helion and Reddit. He emphasizes that other executives led negotiations and that these were standard corporate procedures. Despite OpenAI’s private status limiting public data disclosure, the company faces mounting regulatory pressure. Ten Republican attorneys general have requested an SEC review of OpenAI’s documents ahead of a potential IPO, and the House Oversight Committee has demanded information on conflict-of-interest safeguards. With final arguments scheduled, this evidence significantly impacts the trial’s outcome, highlighting tensions between executive personal wealth and corporate governance in the AI sector.
Elon Musk traveled to China alongside President Trump for a state visit, disregarding a judicial warning that he could be recalled during the ongoing OpenAI trial in Oakland, California. The lawsuit, initiated by Musk against the AI company he co-founded, alleges that OpenAI violated its original nonprofit mission by establishing a for-profit entity. Before concluding his testimony on April 30, U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers placed Musk on recall status at the request of OpenAI’s legal team. Legal experts noted that witnesses subject to recall typically remain near the courthouse, as Musk’s location in Beijing is approximately 5,900 miles away, requiring a 14-hour flight to return. It remains unclear if Musk secured explicit permission from the judge to leave the country, a move that could aggravate the court if he fails to appear on short notice. Musk is seeking the removal of CEO Sam Altman and President Greg Brockman from their roles, along with $150 billion in damages to be directed toward a nonprofit structure. This development highlights the tension between high-profile legal obligations and significant diplomatic or business engagements.
Block, the parent company of Cash App, has accrued $240 million in anticipation of a potential legal settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). This development follows allegations outlined in a March 2023 report by short-seller Hindenburg Research, which claimed Cash App had lax fraud controls and facilitated criminal activity. In a recent SEC filing, Block disclosed that the DOJ provided potential resolution terms in March, to which the company submitted a counterproposal in April. While negotiations are ongoing, Block disputes the methodology behind the DOJ's assessment. Conversely, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) notified Block in March that it had concluded its related investigation and would not recommend enforcement action. Block warns that final losses could exceed the accrued amount. The Hindenburg report, based on interviews with former employees, alleged violations of anti-money laundering laws, claims Block previously rejected as factually inaccurate. Hindenburg Research has since closed its operations. This situation highlights continued regulatory scrutiny facing Block's financial platforms.
The Clorox Company (CLX) has significantly underperformed the broader market, with its stock declining 32.5% over the past year compared to the S&P 500's 26.5% gain. In 2026 alone, CLX shares have fallen nearly 8.8%, lagging behind both the S&P 500 and the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLP). Investor sentiment worsened after the Q3 2026 earnings release on May 1, where the stock dropped 9.7% despite beating revenue and EPS estimates. The decline was driven by management's decision to lower full-year adjusted EPS guidance by 9.4% to a midpoint of $5.55, citing a weaker outlook. Currently, 18 analysts cover the stock with a consensus "Hold" rating, comprising one "Strong Buy," twelve "Holds," and five "Strong Sells." This configuration has become more bearish recently, highlighted by Barclays analyst Lauren Lieberman maintaining a "Sell" rating with a $102 price target. While the mean price target of $100.80 suggests a modest 9.6% upside, the prevailing analyst sentiment reflects caution due to expected earnings contraction and competitive pressures within the consumer staples sector.
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella testified in the Elon Musk vs. OpenAI trial, revealing that Microsoft prepared a $25 billion contingency plan to hire Sam Altman and key OpenAI staff within 24 hours of Altman's sudden firing in November 2023. The plan involved creating a new subsidiary to absorb the talent, matching their compensation packages, but was abandoned after Altman was reinstated. Nadella criticized the board's handling of the dismissal as amateurish and noted the lack of clear explanation regarding the termination reasons. He also highlighted Microsoft's limited formal power over OpenAI's governance, despite being its largest investor. Although Microsoft could not force board appointments, it objected to candidates with ties to competitors like Google and Amazon. Additionally, testimony from OpenAI co-founder Ilya Sutskever revealed that the board briefly explored merger talks with rival AI firm Anthropic during the crisis. These revelations underscore the intense power struggles and strategic maneuvers between Microsoft and OpenAI during the leadership turmoil, emphasizing Microsoft's urgent efforts to protect its significant AI investments and interests.
Elon Musk has traveled to China alongside President Donald Trump for a state visit, despite being under a judicial recall order related to his ongoing lawsuit against OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman. A U.S. federal judge in Oakland, California, had placed Musk on recall status following his testimony, requiring him to remain available for potential further questioning as the trial concludes. However, Musk did not obtain judicial clearance for international travel and instead joined the presidential delegation to discuss critical geopolitical issues, including AI, Taiwan, and Iran, with Chinese President Xi Jinping. This move highlights the tension between legal obligations and high-level diplomatic engagements, raising questions about judicial enforcement against high-profile individuals. The lawsuit accuses OpenAI of fraud for shifting from a nonprofit to a for-profit model. With closing arguments scheduled soon, Musk's absence during this critical phase underscores his unique position and the complexities of managing legal proceedings involving global tech titans engaged in international state affairs.
The high-profile civil trial between Elon Musk and OpenAI concluded its testimony phase with dramatic revelations regarding the company's early internal dynamics. On the final day, OpenAI executive Joshua Achiam testified about a tense 2018 exchange where Musk allegedly called him a 'jackass' after Achiam criticized Musk's plan to launch a competing AI venture as unsafe. To corroborate this account, OpenAI's legal team presented a gag gift—a small golden jackass trophy inscribed with a message about safety—given to Achiam by colleagues Dario Amodei and David Luan. The trial, held in Oakland, California, centers on Musk's accusation that Sam Altman and Greg Brockman misappropriated the non-profit they co-founded. OpenAI counters that Musk's lawsuit stems from jealousy after failing to control the organization. With testimony wrapped up, closing arguments are scheduled to begin, followed by jury deliberations. The case highlights significant tensions in Silicon Valley's AI development landscape, involving key figures like Reid Hoffman and major corporate partnerships with Microsoft.