Tech reporter Cristina Criddle discusses how OpenAI is expanding its global affairs unit and lobbying efforts. Topics include French business leaders courting far-right politicians, Dubai's World Islands project, and Bill Gross selling a valuable stamp collection. The podcast also explores the need for balanced regulations in tech innovation.
French business leaders are cautiously supporting France's far-right party to counter potential left-wing tax policies.
OpenAI is significantly expanding its global affairs team to navigate regulatory challenges and engage with tech regulations worldwide.
Deep dives
Corporate Concerns in French Elections
French corporate leaders are grappling with the upcoming elections in France. President Macron's centrist alliance, previously beneficial to businesses, is losing ground. Business leaders fear potential tax increases from left-wing parties and are tentatively supporting Marine Le Pen's far-right party as the lesser of two evils to maintain influence. The election outcome after the first round on June 30th will shed light on the future direction.
OpenAI's Lobbying Expansion
OpenAI is rapidly expanding its lobbying efforts globally to navigate regulations following the success of its AI chatbot, GPT. The company has increased its global affairs team from three to 35 members, focusing on tech regulation hotspots. Despite having a smaller lobbying budget compared to tech giants like Google and Meta, OpenAI aims to adapt and engage with regulators proactively.
Revival of Dubai's World Islands Project
The World Islands Project in Dubai, initially intended for luxurious private residences, is being revived after facing setbacks during the 2008 financial crisis. Rising demand in Dubai's property market has sparked interest in developing ultra-luxury properties on the islands. Developers aim to transform the islands into exclusive homes accessible primarily by boat, targeting wealthy families seeking unique waterfront properties with potential high returns.
French business leaders are warming up to France’s far-right and Dubai is trying to optimise a cluster of unique, abandoned islands. Plus, the FT’s Cristina Criddle explains why OpenAI is expanding its global affairs unit.
The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Breen Turner, Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Our intern is Prakriti Panwar. Topher Forhecz 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.