Sam Altman, ousted OpenAI board member, returns as CEO under new board. AI safety concerns discussed, including generative AI, election misinformation, and cyber attack risks. Thwarted plot to kill Sikh separatist leader, UK's Autumn Statement, tax cuts, and bleak economic outlook also covered.
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Quick takeaways
Sam Altman has been reinstated as CEO of OpenAI, reflecting broader clashes in the industry around differing views on AI's future and safety issues.
US authorities have thwarted a plot to kill a Sikh separatist leader, intensifying tensions between India and countries accused of harboring Sikh separatists.
Deep dives
Sam Altman reinstated as CEO of OpenAI
Sam Altman, who had previously been ousted as CEO of OpenAI, has been reinstated after receiving support from investors and employees. While the reasons for his initial removal remain unclear, there were concerns about transparency and trust. One board member, Helen Toner, highlighted her focus on AI safety, including concerns about generative AI's potential for misinformation, hacking, and cyber attacks. The incident at OpenAI reflects broader clashes in the AI industry around differing views on the future of AI and safety issues.
US suspects Indian involvement in Sikh assassination plot
US authorities have foiled a plot to kill a Sikh separatist leader, with concerns that India was involved in the assassination attempt. The Indian government has said it is investigating the US claim. This incident further intensifies tensions between India and countries, including Canada and the UK, which India accuses of harboring Sikh separatists. The situation underscores the ongoing disputes and allegations surrounding Sikh separatist movements.
UK government outlines spending plans and tax cuts
UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced the Conservative Party's spending plans, highlighting tax cuts for workers and businesses. However, the UK's tax burden is projected to reach a post-war high, as many tax thresholds remain frozen, pushing people into higher tax bands. Despite the budget's focus on tax cuts, the fiscal watchdog has lowered the UK's growth forecast. The budget aims to boost the Conservative Party's chances of re-election, but skepticism remains among MPs, with debates over the timing and motives behind tax cuts for workers.
Sam Altman returns and OpenAI board members are given the boot;US authorities foil a plot to kill Sikh separatist leader on US soil; plus, the UK’s Autumn Statement increases the tax burden.
The FT News Briefing is produced by Persis Love, Josh Gabert-Doyon and Edwin Lane. Additional help by Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Manuela Saragosa is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music.