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Tech Titans Clash, Utilities Merge, Bonds Suffer Amid Middle East Tensions

Financial Times Markets •
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Elon Musk’s brief lawsuit against OpenAI collapsed after a two‑hour jury vote, ending a high‑profile clash between tech titans. The case, filed in California, saw Musk challenge Sam Altman over alleged missteps, but the court dismissed it swiftly, leaving investors puzzled about the future of AI governance.

Meanwhile, a $420 billion merger between NextEra Energy and Dominion Energy reshaped the U.S. utilities sector. The deal, the largest in the industry, will create a combined entity with a market cap of roughly $500 billion, positioning it as a leading renewable‑energy player amid a wave of consolidation. The merger also bundles 14 GW of solar capacity, boosting NextEra’s green portfolio.

Global bond markets have slid as investors fret over inflation sparked by the Iran war, adding pressure to an already volatile environment. The sell‑off has pushed yields higher, tightening financing conditions for corporations and governments alike.

Across the Middle East, Israeli forces have seized roughly 1,000 sq km in southern Lebanon, deepening fears among Christian villagers of an indefinite occupation. Residents recall past conflicts and warn that new military presence could alter their long‑standing way of life, raising concerns for regional stability.