Proxy News Today — October 31, 2026

The world of technology and business is moving at a breakneck pace, with major players making bold moves to stay ahead of the curve. On the deal-making front, Salesforce is continuing its aggressive M&A strategy with a reported $375 million acquisition of defense tech startup Rune, highlighting the company's efforts to expand its offerings and capabilities. Meanwhile, AI law firm Crosby is making a bid on embattled firm Weil Gotshal, further signaling the growing influence of artificial intelligence in the traditionally staid world of law.

But not all tech companies are faring well, as cracks begin to emerge in the AI spending boom. Rivian, for example, is facing a major test of its autonomy gamble, while Applebee's has suffered a embarrassing data breach after leaving a database password in an app, exposing customers' personal information. On a more positive note, Google is offering a discount on its latest Nest Learning Thermostat, making it more accessible to consumers just in time for sweater weather. As the tech landscape continues to evolve, one thing is clear: companies that can adapt and innovate will be the ones that thrive in this new era of AI-driven disruption.

Today's signal:
• Salesforce’s M&A spree continues with a reported $375M deal for defense tech startup Rune (techcrunch.com)
• Applebee’s exposed customers’ personal data after leaving database password in app (techcrunch.com)
• Cracks are emerging in the AI spending boom (techcrunch.com)
• AI law firm Crosby bids on disintegrating, famed firm Weil Gotshal (techcrunch.com)
• Rivian’s autonomy gamble faces its first real test (theverge.com)
• Google’s latest Nest Learning Thermostat is $60 off just in time for sweater weather (theverge.com)