UAE exits OPEC after 59 years amid Iran tensions, while major tech companies face regulatory scrutiny and OpenAI disputes dominate business landscape

The United Arab Emirates announced its departure from OPEC effective May 1, marking a significant blow to the oil cartel's influence. The UAE has long complained that OPEC's production quotas unfairly limited its exports, and the decision comes amid heightened tensions from the Iran war and energy market volatility.

Elon Musk testified at the OpenAI trial that he founded the company to prevent a 'Terminator outcome,' while claiming co-founder Sam Altman abandoned the nonprofit mission out of greed. The judge warned both parties to limit social media attacks as the high-stakes litigation continues.

Microsoft and OpenAI have loosened their partnership, with Microsoft ending its exclusive licensing arrangement while continuing to license the startup's technology. The shift reflects changing dynamics in their relationship as OpenAI pursues broader partnerships.

Google has signed an AI deal with the Pentagon to provide access to its AI capabilities on classified networks, expanding government use of commercial AI systems amid disputes with other tech companies like Anthropic.

China announced it will reverse Meta's acquisition of Manus AI, marking Beijing's most aggressive move to prevent AI talent from leaving the country. The action sets up a complicated legal and political dispute between the US tech giant and Chinese authorities.

Starbucks reported strong store traffic and rising quarterly sales, with CEO crediting the company's turnaround plan for improved US same-store sales despite concerns about higher operational costs in energy and utilities.

Treasury issued additional sanctions on Iranian oil exports targeting the country's shadow banking system and Chinese purchases of Iranian crude, escalating economic pressure on Iran amid ongoing regional tensions.

The Supreme Court appeared skeptical of a Falun Gong lawsuit against Cisco over alleged complicity in Chinese human rights abuses, with the decision potentially affecting broader corporate liability for international rights violations.

Match Group invested $100 million in Sniffies, a gay cruising app, prompting user concerns about potential 'straightification' and loss of the platform's queer-focused mission under corporate ownership.

More than 700 workers training Meta's AI at an Irish contractor could be laid off, raising concerns about the company's commitment to human oversight of AI development despite its massive AI investment.