OpenAI seeks exclusive funding deals to limit rival investments

OpenAI has requested that investors avoid funding rival companies like Anthropic and xAI while securing $6.6 billion in new funding. This move, which seeks exclusive relationships with investors, is unusual in the tech industry and could limit rivals' access to capital. The company, valued at $150 billion, aims to strengthen its position amid increasing competition. This request may escalate tensions with competitors, particularly Elon Musk, who is currently suing OpenAI. In other news, Vietnamese fishermen were injured in a clash with Chinese vessels in the South China Sea, marking a significant escalation in tensions. Meanwhile, President Biden has opposed an Israeli strike on Iran's nuclear facilities amid rising regional tensions.