TNB Tech Minute: Jury Unanimously Rejects Elon Musk’s Claims Against OpenAI

2026-05-18 · Source: WSJ Tech News Briefing · Field: Business & Management — Corporate Strategy & Leadership, E-commerce & Digital Commerce, Entrepreneurship & Start-ups · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, quick

Summary

A jury unanimously rejected Elon Musk's claims against OpenAI, finding he waited too long to file his lawsuit against the ChatGPT maker and CEO Sam Altman. The jury ruled on technical grounds that the statute of limitations had expired, though Musk's attorney plans to appeal. Musk had accused OpenAI of manipulating him into donating to an AI nonprofit that became for-profit, a claim OpenAI denied. Separately, online used-car retailer Carvana is expanding into new-car dealerships, becoming a Stellantis franchise dealer. Its first dealership saw sales jump from 30-50 cars monthly to approximately 350. Carvana has invested over \$160 million to add six more Stellantis dealerships, prompting Stellantis to restrict future acquisitions. Additionally, Elliott Investment Management has acquired a sizable stake in Bio-Rad Laboratories, intending to push the life science tools provider to boost its underperforming stock price, noting Bio-Rad's \$5 billion investment in Sartorius, where Elliott is also a major investor.

Key takeaway

For investors tracking tech and automotive sectors, these updates highlight key market dynamics. You should note the legal risks associated with delayed claims, as seen in the OpenAI case. Carvana's expansion into new car dealerships demonstrates a successful online-to-physical retail model, suggesting potential for similar disruptions. Furthermore, Elliott Investment Management's stake in Bio-Rad signals increased activist pressure on companies with underperforming assets, urging you to scrutinize your portfolio for similar vulnerabilities and strategic investment overlaps.

Key insights

Principles

• Legal claims are subject to strict statutes of limitations.
• Online retail models can significantly boost traditional sales.
• Activist investors target underperforming stocks with strategic ties.

In practice

• Consider online-to-physical expansion for retail growth.
• Evaluate portfolio companies for activist investor interest.

Topics

• OpenAI Lawsuit
• Elon Musk
• Carvana Expansion
• Stellantis Franchises
• Activist Investing
• Bio-Rad Laboratories

Best for: Executive, Investor, Tech Journalist

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by WSJ Tech News Briefing.