US stock futures rise with focus on Mideast tensions, Fed meeting

OpenAI, the AI startup behind ChatGPT, is reportedly fed up with its deep-pocketed partner Microsoft. Sources say tensions have escalated to the point where OpenAI has even floated the idea of filing antitrust complaints against the tech giant—a dramatic twist in what was once a cozy, billion-dollar collaboration.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just corporate drama—it’s a power struggle that could reshape the AI landscape. Microsoft has poured billions into OpenAI, but if the partnership sours, it could slow down AI innovation, trigger regulatory scrutiny, or even push OpenAI toward independence. For anyone watching the AI gold rush, this is a sign that alliances aren’t as stable as they seem.

A government watchdog just dropped a bombshell: the Trump administration illegally withheld federal funds meant for libraries—specifically, programs supporting museums and libraries nationwide. The report says they sat on millions that Congress had already approved, violating spending laws.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just bureaucratic drama—it’s about real consequences. Libraries and museums rely on these funds for everything from literacy programs to community resources. Holding back that money without justification hurts local institutions (and arguably, the public’s trust). The finding also sets a precedent for how future administrations handle congressionally mandated spending.

Turns out those handy text messages with two-factor authentication codes might not be as private as you think. A Bloomberg investigation reveals that the one-time codes sent to your phone can actually be seen by the companies handling the text messages along the way. Reporter Ryan Gallagher breaks down why this is a problem and suggests safer alternatives, like using authentication apps instead.

Editor’s Note: Most of us rely on two-factor authentication (2FA) to keep our accounts secure, assuming those texted codes are private. But if they can be intercepted, it’s a big deal—especially for high-risk targets like journalists or activists. This story matters because it exposes a weak link in a security measure many trust blindly, nudging us to rethink how we protect our digital lives.

Analysts at Cantor Fitzgerald suggest that Solana’s growing adoption in finance could be a win for investors. As more companies explore using the cryptocurrency for financial applications, its value and utility might rise—potentially rewarding those who’ve backed it early.

Editor’s Note: Solana isn’t just another crypto—it’s gaining real-world traction in finance, which could make it more than just a speculative asset. If this trend holds, early investors might see solid returns, but as always in crypto, it’s a high-stakes game. Worth keeping an eye on.

John Parkinson, a director at Consumers Bancorp, just scooped up $9,880 worth of the company’s stock. It’s a move that often signals confidence in the bank’s future—after all, insiders don’t usually throw cash at something they think is sinking.

Editor’s Note: When a company insider buys shares, it’s like a quiet vote of confidence—they’re putting skin in the game. For investors, it’s worth noting because these folks typically have a clearer read on the company’s health than outsiders do. That said, one buy doesn’t guarantee a win, but it’s a solid nudge to keep an eye on Consumers Bancorp.