Pivot

Iran Market Disconnect, Vance v. Pope, and OpenAI Shades Microsoft and Anthropic

with Kara Swisher and Scott Galloway
17 Apr 2026 5 min read 48m
TL;DR

Markets are defying geopolitical gravity despite escalating Iran tensions, OpenAI is publicly criticizing Microsoft and Anthropic in a shift toward competitive aggression, and the Trump administration's influence is reshaping everything from Fed policy to kids' investment apps.

Key Moments
Kara Swisher
“[No transcript — approximate] Markets keep rising despite Iran escalation and geopolitical tensions”
Discussing the apparent disconnect between rising market indices and real-world security risks
Scott Galloway
“[No transcript — approximate] VP Vance challenging the Pope is a significant political and cultural risk”
Analyzing Vance's controversial stance and what it signals about the administration
Kara Swisher
“[No transcript — approximate] OpenAI is taking shots at Microsoft and Anthropic in a more aggressive competitive posture”
Noting a shift in tone from OpenAI toward its major partners and competitors
Scott Galloway
“[No transcript — approximate] Trump is renewing his attacks on Fed Chair Jerome Powell”
Discussing continued pressure on the Federal Reserve from the Trump administration
Kara Swisher
“[No transcript — approximate] Millions of kids are signing up for Trump-backed investment accounts”
Highlighting a surprising trend in youth financial engagement tied to Trump's platform
About the show
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Pivot is a twice-weekly show where Kara Swisher and Scott Galloway break down the week's biggest business, tech, and political stories. They offer sharp analysis on market movements, corporate strategy, and the intersection of power, money, and innovation. The hosts combine Swisher's deep tech and media expertise with Galloway's business acumen and irreverent commentary.
Takeaways
1
OpenAI escalates competitive rhetoric against allies OpenAI's public criticism of Microsoft and Anthropic marks a notable shift from its earlier collaborative tone. This aggressive positioning suggests internal confidence in its technical capabilities and willingness to challenge even major partners, which could reshape AI industry dynamics and partnership expectations.
2
Markets ignore geopolitical risk signals Despite escalating Iran tensions and real security threats, markets continue rising—suggesting investors either discount these risks or believe U.S. policy will contain them. This disconnect raises questions about whether equities are pricing in political resolution or exhibiting dangerous complacency.
3
Trump administration reshapes financial ecosystems From attacking Fed policy to launching Trump-branded investment accounts for youth, the administration is directly molding financial markets and retail participation. This level of direct influence on monetary and investment behavior represents a significant shift in executive-market relations.