Large firms spend millions on data to gain an edge. But thanks to a free Python project, small businesses and independent investors can start closing that gap—without spending a fortune.

Frustrated by programming language shortcomings, Guido van Rossum created Python. With the language now used by millions, Nick Heath talks to van Rossum about Python's past and explores what's next.

Programming languages: Faster Python project Pyston takes a big step forward Data science company Anaconda is funding the Pyston project by hiring its lead developers.