Happening Now — September 29, 2026: Anthropic IPO, UK Terror Probe, Medicaid Changes

Overview

At this hour, Tuesday, September 29th. We're seeing a broad risk-off tone across markets. The S&P 500 is trading down about half a percent, while the tech-heavy NASDAQ Composite is off more than one percent. Volatility is spiking, with the VIX jumping over ten percent. Here with me are our markets analyst and our world

In this show

• At this hour, Tuesday, September 29th. We're seeing a broad risk-off tone across markets. The S&P 500 is trading down about half a percent, while the tech-heavy NASDAQ Composite is off more than one percent. Volatility is spiking, with the VIX jumping over ten percent. Here with me are our markets analyst and our world correspondent to break down the day's developing stories. We're tracking major headlines from the UK to a significant IPO filing in the AI space that has investors talking.
• Across the wires this hour, a major security incident is unfolding in the UK, where counter-terror police are investigating suspected explosives found near a US air base. In Philadelphia, law enforcement has intensified its probe into a suspected serial killer. And in Washington, the Senate has just passed a comprehensive bipartisan bill aimed at regulating college sports, a move that could reshape collegiate athletics nationwide. We'll have more on that story later in the hour.
• The big story in tech and finance is that artificial intelligence company Anthropic has officially filed for an initial public offering. This is one of the most anticipated market debuts in the booming AI sector. According to the latest filings, the company is seeking to raise significant capital to fund its massive research and computing costs. The move is being seen as a key barometer for investor appetite in high-growth, capital-intensive AI ventures. All eyes will be on the pricing and initial trading.
• Turning to that situation in the United Kingdom, British counter-terrorism police are leading a major investigation near RAF Fairford, an airbase frequently used by the U.S. military. Five men have been arrested on suspicion of terror offenses after they were found with suspected explosives. The area has been cordoned off as authorities conduct their investigation. The Iranian embassy in London has issued a statement denying any connection to the incident, according to wire reports.
• In business news, Microsoft is expanding its footprint in the travel sector. The company has announced new nonstop flight services to Boston, which will be operated by American Airlines and Delta. This is part of a broader strategy to integrate travel booking and services more deeply into its web portals. For consumers, it means more competition and options for a popular business and leisure route. It's a notable expansion of the company's service offerings beyond its core software and cloud businesses.
• There is growing anxiety over forthcoming changes to Medicaid. New work requirements set to take effect on January 1st could result in nearly 8 million people losing their health insurance coverage. That's according to a recent analysis from the Congressional Budget Office. The rule changes are prompting significant concern among families who depend on the program for essential medical care. Advocacy groups are now mobilizing to challenge the new requirements before they are implemented.
• In Austin, Texas, protests are continuing after an ICE agent shot a man working as a DoorDash driver. The man, Wilber Garces Perez, remains in pain with a bullet reportedly still lodged in his back. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for accountability from immigrant rights organizations, who are demanding a transparent investigation into the shooting. Federal authorities have stated the agent was conducting an operation in the area at the time of the incident, but have provided few other details.
• A sitting Supreme Court Justice is generating significant discussion with a new book. Justice Steve Vladeck has introduced his second book, titled 'The Court We Need,' in a recent online post. Reporting indicates the book offers a diagnosis of the issues currently facing the nation's highest court and proposes several potential paths for reform. The release is fueling an already intense public debate about the role, structure, and future of the Supreme Court, especially ahead of the new term.
• A disturbing development in a recent murder case. The in-laws of a prominent games engineering director have now been arrested on suspicion of his murder. The executive was found fatally shot in the parking lot of a sports complex in California. Authorities have been investigating the case for weeks, and these arrests mark a major turning point. Investigators are now working to determine a clear motive for the crime, which has shocked the local community and the tech industry.
• Back to that story out of Washington, the U.S. Senate has passed a bipartisan bill to regulate college sports. This is a landmark piece of legislation aimed at creating a national standard for how student-athletes are compensated and how they can transfer between schools. The bill seeks to bring order to the recent chaos in collegiate athletics, driven by name, image, and likeness deals. It will now move to the House of Representatives for consideration, where its fate is less certain.
• And finally, a viral story out of Florida. An 86-year-old man whose high-speed police chase went viral says the incident has devastated his retirement. The man was reportedly driving 110 mph before his arrest. Now facing the consequences, his story has sparked a wider conversation online about the challenges of aging, personal responsibility, and the unexpected turns life can take. He says the financial and emotional toll has been immense.
• Summit Therapeutics is today's standout, soaring over 21 percent to trade at $18.88. The massive move comes after AstraZeneca announced a $2 billion strategic equity investment in the biotech firm at a premium. This investment validates Summit's lead cancer drug, ivonescimab, and provides significant capital to fund its late-stage clinical trials, with a key FDA decision expected by November 14th.
• Sangoma Technologies is surging, up more than 33 percent to $4.79. The rally is fueled by news that the company has agreed to be acquired by an affiliate of BRC Group in a cash-and-stock deal with an enterprise value of about $204 million. The offer of $5.225 per share represents a significant 47% premium to Sangoma's prior closing price, delivering immediate value to its shareholders.
• Palo Alto Networks is trading higher today, up over 4.5 percent at $392.09. The cybersecurity leader is getting a boost after an analyst at BTIG raised the firm's price target on the stock to $425 from $404, maintaining a buy rating. The company recently reported strong quarterly results, with revenue up 34.5% year-over-year, driven by robust demand for its security platforms.
• As the afternoon develops, we'll be keeping a close eye on the markets and any further developments from that security incident in the UK. And one thing to watch for this evening: a virtual town hall hosted by New York State Senator Liz Krueger on the influence of big money in politics. The event will feature a presentation from the Brennan Center for Justice. That's a conversation sure to have ripple effects. We'll be back later this afternoon with the latest. Stay with us.