THREAD: tech stocks soar as cor...

SUPREME COURT’S Bold Move to Protect America from China-Owned Apps

17 January 2025 — The U.S. SUPREME COURT has upheld a law allowing the government to ban TikTok unless it’s sold by its Chinese parent company. This decision addresses concerns over data privacy and national security linked to the popular app. Millions of American users are affected as lawmakers push for tougher rules on foreign-owned social media platforms.

The law emerged from fears that China could access sensitive personal data of American users through TikTok. Supporters see this ruling as a win for privacy and security, while critics worry about job losses and restricted free speech. The decision aligns with increased scrutiny on foreign tech companies in the U.S.

TikTok has been urged to consider selling or restructuring to ease these concerns, which could impact other tech firms with foreign connections. This ruling may lead to big changes in how tech companies are owned and operate under U.S. laws, sparking talks about future compliance strategies within the industry.

VERTICAL THEME’S BIG Move: Alliance Bank Stake Sale to DBS?

17 January 2025 — Investment firm Vertical Theme Sdn. plans to seek approval to start talks about selling its stake in Alliance Bank Malaysia Bhd. Sources close to the situation revealed this potential sale, which could lead to big changes in the bank’s ownership. This move hints at a strategy shift for Vertical Theme as it explores opportunities with DBS, a major player in banking.

RUPIAH and WON SHOCKED by Central Bank SURPRISES

The Indonesian rupiah is near six-month lows, and the South Korean won ended a three-day winning streak after unexpected central bank decisions. Investors were surprised as both countries’ central banks made unanticipated interest rate calls, causing market fluctuations. These moves highlight today’s volatile and unpredictable global financial markets.

HEXTAR INDUSTRIES BREWS UP Luckin Coffee LAUNCH THIS MONTH!

Hextar Industries Bhd is gearing up for a soft opening of five Luckin Coffee outlets by month’s end through its subsidiary Global Aroma Sdn Bhd (GASB). This expansion marks Hextar’s entry into the competitive coffee market, aiming to capture consumer interest with Luckin Coffee’s brand appeal. The openings show Hextar’s strategic growth ambitions within Malaysia’s food and beverage industry.

AMAZON’S BOLD Move: New South Africa Center Shakes UP Market

17 January 2025 — Amazon has opened a new center in Cape Town, South Africa, to support its independent sellers. This is part of Amazon’s plan to grow its market share and compete with local leader Takealot, owned by Naspers. The center aims to help sellers attract more customers and expand Amazon’s product range, potentially boosting revenue.

APPLE’s CHINA TROUBLES: iPhone Shipments PLUMMET

Apple shares fell 3.2% after research firm Canalys reported a 17% drop in iPhone shipments in China for 2024. This decline pushed Apple down to third place in China’s market share rankings. Despite the stock’s volatility, this news is significant but doesn’t drastically change the company’s business outlook.

STOCK MARKET SLUMP: Earnings Reports RATTLE Investors

The stock market took a hit following Wednesday’s rally due to retail sales data and major bank earnings reports taking the spotlight. Analysts remain hopeful about gains for the S&P 500 by year-end despite current swings. Focus is also on upcoming hearings on tariff plans before President-elect Donald Trump that could affect future economic strategies moving forward.

MICROSOFT’S Bold AI Move: Copilot Chat Unleashed

16 January 2025 — Microsoft has launched Copilot Chat, a new service designed to increase AI use among businesses. This pay-as-you-go chat tool uses OpenAI’s GPT-4 to create AI agents for tasks like market research and strategy document creation. It supports multiple languages, including English and Mandarin, making it accessible to many users.

BUSINESSES WORRY OVER TRUMP POLICIES AS HE RETURNS TO POWER

A Federal Reserve survey shows U.S. businesses are worried about possible price hikes under President-elect Donald Trump’s policies. Even with moderate economic growth and more jobs at the end of 2024, concerns remain about Trump’s return to the White House next week. The survey includes feedback from business contacts across the Fed’s 12 regional banks as of January 6th.

BUFFETT CAUTIONS AGAINST COPYING HIS INVESTMENT MOVES BLINDLY

Warren Buffett warns against blindly following his investment strategies without understanding them fully. He points out that Berkshire Hathaway often buys entire businesses, not just stocks, requiring deep analysis and long-term planning. Buffett notes that unique advantages like Berkshire’s insurance “free float” significantly influence their investment choices.

GOLD PRICES Soar: What You Need to Know About Plunging US Yields

16 January 2025 — Gold prices climbed for the second day, fueled by falling U.S. yields and hints of easing core inflation. Investors are keeping a close eye on upcoming U.S. retail sales data, unemployment claims, and Federal Reserve announcements for more market insight.

The stock market saw a big lift after a surprisingly good consumer inflation report. The Dow surged 700 points while the Nasdaq jumped 2.5%. This shows optimism even though there are worries about high rates affecting stock performance.

Financial powerhouses Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan started the earnings season strong with impressive trading revenues, boosting the S&P 500’s financial sector to its best day in two months. Citigroup announced a $20 billion share buyback program as it tackles rising regulatory costs and compliance issues.

The U.S. dollar was volatile as traders analyzed inflation data showing core inflation dipped slightly from 3.3% to 3.2%. Market players await more direction from the Federal Reserve on interest rate policies amid these economic changes.

NEW US CHIP Rules Shake Nvidia: What It Means for Tech’s Future

15 January 2025 — Nvidia faces new challenges as the US limits GPU shipments to 100,000 units per country. Larger orders now need US government approval. This move aims to control the spread of advanced technology worldwide.

In response to past restrictions, Nvidia designed a less powerful chip for China, following Biden’s 2022 rules. Despite these hurdles, experts like Chris Miller believe high demand may help soften any sales impacts.

These regulations could reshape Nvidia’s market strategies and global operations as it strives to keep its lead in the semiconductor industry amid changing rules.

CHINA’S SHOCKING TikTok Move: Will Musk Take Over?

15 January 2025 — Chinese officials are thinking about selling TikTok’s US operations to Elon Musk. This idea comes as the app faces a possible ban in the United States. The talks highlight ongoing worries about national security risks linked to TikTok, owned by ByteDance.

The potential sale of TikTok’s US operations shows the tension between the United States and China over data privacy issues. Regulatory scrutiny is growing, with technology and foreign investments at the heart of these global challenges.

Elon Musk’s involvement could change how TikTok operates in America if a sale happens. This development marks an important moment in US-China relations regarding technology and data privacy concerns.

CHINA’S Record Trade Surplus Sparks Global Alarm

14 January 2025 — In December 2024, CHINA reached a record trade surplus of $104.8 billion. This was due to a surge in exports before President-elect Donald Trump could impose tariffs. The New York Times reported that China’s export boom is causing friction with many trade partners, not just the United States. Several nations are now erecting tariff barriers against Chinese products to protect their markets.

China’s export success has been an economic boon, creating millions of jobs in sectors like manufacturing and engineering. The nation dominates industries such as solar panels and is becoming self-sufficient in areas like commercial jets. However, China still struggles with energy independence outside solar power.

The automobile industry showcases China’s manufacturing strength, evolving from a major importer to the world’s largest car exporter in two decades. Critics argue that China’s overcapacity and government subsidies distort global auto markets by flooding them with cheap vehicles amid declining local demand.

While record exports might seem beneficial for China, they could lead to financial strain if companies face bankruptcy due to low prices and excess inventory as tariff barriers persist globally. The auto industry may have peaked, facing strong resistance from politically influential foreign markets protecting their own electric vehicle sectors through tariffs and subsidies.

STOCK MARKET Chaos: Inflation Fears Shake Investor Confidence

13 January 2025 — The U.S. STOCK market took a big hit today, with major indexes dropping over 3% due to rising inflation fears. Investors worry about possible Federal Reserve policy changes after high inflation numbers came out earlier this week. This is one of the steepest drops in months, shaking confidence that had been boosted by strong job reports.

Bond yields are up, with the 10-year Treasury bond yield hitting about 4.1%, its highest since late 2023, signaling increased inflation expectations. Big tech stocks like Apple and Microsoft saw sell-offs over 5%, adding to the market slump. Analysts warn that ongoing inflation might push the Federal Reserve to rethink interest rate policies, possibly leading to more hikes instead of cuts.

The decline comes after a strong holiday shopping season that initially suggested steady economic growth but is now overshadowed by ongoing inflation problems. Retail and consumer sectors face rising costs and reduced spending, making investors cautious in these areas. Companies like Walmart and Target report higher holiday sales but shrinking profit margins due to inflation pressures, prompting them to rethink annual forecasts.

Banks like JPMorgan are bracing for possible loan defaults as consumers struggle with higher living costs by setting aside more reserves. Market analysts expect continued volatility as investors digest new inflation data and Fed policy implications.;

ECONOMISTS SOUND Alarm: 2025 Financial Crisis Looms

07 January 2025 — Economists are raising alarms about a potential financial crisis in 2025. David Kelly from JPMorgan warns that high stock market valuations pose a significant risk despite strong economic indicators like low layoffs and cooling inflation. Investors should be cautious as these inflated values could lead to a sudden market downturn.

Current economic signs show paychecks growing faster than prices, and stable gas prices offer optimism for Americans. However, the high asset valuations remain a critical concern for analysts. They suggest preparing for increased market volatility throughout 2025, with a crisis potentially emerging early in the year.

These warnings have led to cautious trading, especially in tech stocks that previously drove gains. Traders are balancing concern with optimism, causing fluctuating stock prices in early sessions.

This situation may prompt investors to reassess their portfolios and strategies as they navigate potential shifts due to changing market conditions. The economic concerns highlighted could significantly influence investor behavior and market dynamics moving forward.

WALL STREET Surges: Oil Price Drop Sparks Investor Optimism

05 January 2025 — Wall Street is climbing today, driven by a 6% DROP in oil prices. Investors are gearing up for a crucial week of earnings reports from major tech firms.

Tech and energy stocks are leading the way, with analysts hopeful about tech giants’ futures. However, there is still caution about the overall economic outlook.

The fall in oil prices comes from oversupply worries and easing geopolitical tensions, affecting inflation rates and consumer spending that Wall Street closely monitors.

While U.S. markets rise, Asian markets face recession fears linked to U.S. economic performance, showing global interconnectedness and financial volatility.

NBA’S SHOCKING Return to China: Millions at Stake After Controversial Ban Lifted

06 December 2024 — The Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns will play two preseason games in China. This follows the reinstatement of the NBA’s broadcast deal, worth millions. The league was banned in 2019 after a controversial tweet by Rockets executive Daryl Morey supporting Hong Kong protesters.

Chinese authorities demanded Morey be fired, but NBA Commissioner Adam Silver refused. Instead, Silver publicly criticized Morey, leading to his apology and retraction of support for the pro-democracy movement. Despite this, China suspended NBA broadcasts until now.

Morey’s tweet read: “Fight for freedom, stand with Hong Kong.” His apology aimed to mend relations with Chinese fans and sponsors offended by his stance. He stressed that his views were personal and not representative of the Rockets or the NBA as a whole.

The return of NBA games to Chinese screens marks a significant financial move for both parties involved. It highlights ongoing tensions between business interests and political stances within international sports diplomacy.

TRUMP’S Triumph Ignites Outrage: Just Stop OIL Strikes Back

06 November 2024 — On Wednesday, Donald Trump claimed victory in the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election, winning support from over 70 million Americans. Yet, not everyone was pleased. The far-left group Just Stop Oil showed their anger by splashing bright orange paint on the U.S. Embassy in London.

Just Stop Oil slammed corporate power and fossil fuel industries, saying they control major political parties and are the real winners of the election. They called Trump a “fake populist,” claiming he ignores what they see as vital — stopping oil and gas drilling. The group urged regular people to act since they believe no leaders will make needed changes.

Activist Joseph Aggarwal was detained by police after joining the protest. He voiced concerns about a lack of true democracy across Western nations, arguing voters get similar policies no matter which party wins, worsening living conditions and climate issues. Aggarwal accused Trump of using public frustration to help billionaires while ignoring urgent environmental problems.

LABOUR PARTY Surges Amid UK Election Betting Scandal

29 June 2024 — The U.K. general election on July 4 is approaching, with the Labour Party expected to defeat Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s Conservatives. Polls indicate Labour leader Keir Starmer will likely form the next government.

The Conservative campaign has struggled, facing allegations of election betting involving figures close to Sunak. This scandal has further dampened their already lackluster efforts.

In the U.K., the prime minister decides election dates, unlike fixed schedules in countries like the U.S. This unique system has led to a market for predicting election dates and outcomes.

Police officers and Conservative insiders are under investigation for their involvement in this betting scandal, adding another layer of controversy as over 50 countries prepare for elections in 2024.

MASSIVE BLOW: Tata Steel Shutters Wales Plant, 2,800 Jobs Vanish Overnight

20 January 2024 — Indian steel titan, Tata Steel, has revealed plans to close both blast furnaces at its Port Talbot plant in Wales. This drastic move will result in the loss of 2,800 jobs and is part of a broader strategy to streamline their unprofitable UK operation and make it more eco-friendly.

The company intends to transition from coal-fired blast furnaces to an electric arc furnace. This modern method emits less carbon and requires fewer workers. The British government backs this shift with a hefty £500 million ($634 million) investment. Tata Steel is confident that this transition will “turn around over a decade of losses” and foster a greener steel industry.

This decision strikes a severe blow to Port Talbot — a town heavily dependent on the steel industry since the early 20th century. Unions had suggested keeping one blast furnace operational while constructing the electric one as an attempt to mitigate job cuts — a proposal that Tata dismissed.

Both blast furnaces are slated for closure within this year. Meanwhile, plans for installing the new electric furnace are set for completion by 2027.

US STEEL Takeover: BLOCKING Japanese Buyout Could Save American Jobs

22 December 2023 — Nippon Steel, Japan’s leading steel company, is facing a storm of criticism over its planned $14 billion acquisition of U.S. Steel Corporation. The deal, unveiled on Monday, values U.S. Steel at $55 per share and has sparked immediate opposition, especially in the Rust Belt where U.S. Steel has been a cornerstone since 1901.

Despite U.S. Steel’s assurances that the merger would unite “two storied companies with rich histories,” lawmakers are demanding action. Senators J.D. Vance (R-OH), Josh Hawley (R-MO), and Marco Rubio (R-FL) have written to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen urging the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to halt the deal.

The senators contend that domestic steel production is vital for national security and needs careful scrutiny before permitting foreign investment. CFIUS, led by Yellen, holds the authority to stop such investments after a review process.

While experts predict CFIUS is more likely to block deals involving countries perceived as adversaries like Russia or China rather than allies like Japan, this situation highlights bipartisan worries about foreign control over crucial industries.

US-CHINA Economic Reset PROPOSED: Will Higher Tariffs Be the New Norm?

12 December 2023 — A bipartisan committee in the House has put forth a proposal for a complete overhaul of US economic ties with China. This includes the suggestion of implementing higher tariffs. The pivotal recommendations were released in an extensive report by the House Select Committee on Strategic Competition Between the United States and Chinese Communist Party, chaired by Mike Gallagher (R-WI) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL).

The report posits that since its induction into the World Trade Organization in 2001, Beijing has been engaged in an economic conflict against both the US and its allies. It outlines three key strategies: revamping America’s economic relationship with China, limiting U.S. capital and technological inflow into China, and strengthening U.S. economic resilience with allied support.

One notable recommendation is to shift China to a new tariff column to enforce more robust tariffs. The committee also suggests imposing tariffs on essential semiconductor chips used in everyday devices like phones and cars. This move aims to prevent Chinese domination in this sector from granting Beijing undue control over global economy.

Bipartisan Committee CALLS for END of China’s Trade Status: A Potential Jolt to US Economy

12 December 2023 — A bipartisan committee, led by Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI) and Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), has been studying the economic effects of China on the US for a year. The investigation centered on job market changes, manufacturing shifts, and national security concerns since China joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2001.

The committee released a report this Tuesday recommending President Joe Biden’s administration and Congress to implement nearly 150 policies to counteract China’s economic influence. One significant suggestion is to cancel China’s permanent normal trade relations status (PNTR) with the U.S., a status endorsed by former President George W. Bush in 2001.

The report argues that granting PNTR to China did not bring anticipated benefits for the US or trigger expected reforms in China. It asserts that this has led to a loss of vital U.S. economic leverage and inflicted damage on U.S industry, workers, and manufacturers due to unfair trade practices.

The committee proposes shifting China into a new tariff category that reinstates U.S economic leverage while reducing dependence on Chinese

AMAZON and META Bow to UK Antitrust Pressure, Pledge Fair Play

06 November 2023 — Amazon and Meta, two tech behemoths, have put an end to separate antitrust investigations in the United Kingdom. They’ve agreed to halt practices that unfairly tip the scales in their favor against vendors and consumers on their platforms. This agreement was reached with the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), effectively closing the investigations into their online marketplaces.

The CMA had been examining Amazon’s potential threat to competition by preferentially treating merchants who shell out for extras like storage, packaging, and delivery. The watchdog also probed Amazon’s choice of suppliers for its “buy box” feature as well as its data collection habits. As part of this settlement, Amazon will stop using data from third-party sellers for competitive advantage.

Meta’s probe focused on whether its data collection methods provided it an unfair leg up over competitors offering classified data and online dating services. Both companies have embraced these settlements; Amazon previously settled a similar EU antitrust case in December by agreeing to make substantial changes in how it does business.

FRONTIER AI: A Ticking Time Bomb? World Leaders and Tech Titans Convene to Discuss Risks

01 November 2023 — The latest buzzword in the realm of artificial intelligence, Frontier AI, has been causing a stir due to its potential threats to human existence. Advanced chatbots like ChatGPT have dazzled with their capabilities, but fears about the risks associated with such technology are escalating. Top researchers, leading AI companies, and governments are advocating for protective measures against these looming dangers.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is orchestrating a two-day summit on frontier AI at Bletchley Park. The event is set to draw around 100 officials from 28 nations including U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Executives from prominent U.S. artificial intelligence firms such as OpenAI, Google’s Deepmind and Anthropic will also be in attendance.

Sunak asserts that only governments can shield people from the hazards posed by this technology. However, he stressed that the U.K.'s strategy is not to hastily impose regulation despite identifying potential threats like using AI for crafting chemical or biological weapons.

Jeff Clune, an associate computer science professor at the University of British Columbia who specializes in AI and machine learning was among those urging for more government intervention in mitigating risks from AI last week — echoing warnings issued by tech tycoons like Elon Musk and Open