- AUD/USD fell to ~0.7160 as Fed's Warsh signaled potential rate hikes if inflation remains elevated
- Markets price ~57.5% chance of a 25bps Fed hike in September, up from 35% pre-speech
- China's NBS PMI data release later today may influence Aussie losses given China's trade ties with Australia
August 30, 2026
▲ 20▼ 24◆ 9– 105
Markets 6
- Initial public offerings of startups on the Tokyo Stock Exchange reached an all-time high in average market capitalization during Jan-Aug 2026.
- The average market cap for these IPOs hit $193 million.
- New listing standards are contributing to this trend by weeding out smaller debuts.
- Bessent characterizes recent yen movements as "pretty contained."
- He explicitly states that the yen's fluctuations are not considered "disorderly."
- The assessment suggests a lack of immediate concern regarding the yen's current volatility.
- Retail investors and quant funds increased use of borrowed money in equities
- Short-term trading activity has risen alongside leverage growth
- Shift reflects higher risk appetite and speculative behavior in markets
- Korean day traders are reducing their positions in leveraged chip ETFs.
- The exodus is attributed to new regulatory restrictions.
- This trend indicates a shift in retail investor behavior in the Korean market for these specific instruments.
- Tadawul All Share Index fell 0.71% to close lower amid broad regional equity weakness
- Saudi market underperformed despite recent oil price stability
- Trading volumes remained subdued with no major sectoral outperformers
Macro/Economy 12
- Singapore launched its largest effort yet, promising over S$60,000 per child from birth to age 17, alongside lower childcare fees, more parental leave, and public housing priority.
- The city-state's Total Fertility Rate (TFR) dropped to 0.87 in 2025, the world's second lowest after South Korea's 0.81, far below the 2.1 needed for population stability.
- Experts caution that the success of these measures will take decades to materialize, citing similar struggles in South Korea and Japan.
- The new approach aims for consistent support throughout child-raising, a shift from previous schemes concentrated around birth.
- Challenges include potential operational disruptions and costs for businesses due to increased parental leave.
- Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) economist projects GDP per capita at $7,420 by 2037, far below $13,845 threshold for high-income status
- TDRI warns Thailand's economic growth of 6% annually is insufficient to reach high-income status by 2037
- Current GDP per capita stands at $7,420, requiring sustained 6% annual growth to meet 2037 target
- Thailand's economic growth has averaged 2.7% over the past decade, highlighting structural challenges
- Traditional bank lending faces tighter scrutiny with PBR (Prime Borrower Rate) expected to rise 11.11% YoY
- Credit approval rates for personal loans dropped to 5% in Thailand, down from 6.82% in 2023
- Alternative credit scoring models (e.g., BCN) gaining traction to expand access for 42% of previously excluded borrowers
- KBeniL and other banks pivoting to digital-first lending to offset tighter credit conditions
- U.S. risks economic and national security harm if dollar loses global reserve status
- Dollar’s dominance shields U.S. from external financial shocks and sanctions leverage
- Shift away from dollar could raise borrowing costs and destabilize global trade
- Average contract interest rate on commercial & industrial loans rose to 6.85% in July from 6.78% in June
- Prime rate held at 8.50%, unchanged for third consecutive month
- Consumer loan rates increased slightly to 11.45% from 11.38% in June
- US Treasury's Mark Bessent reportedly drafting a new FX policy framework to address currency manipulation concerns
- Potential shift aims to clarify criteria for currency intervention and tariff responses
- Draft policy seen as response to rising global FX tensions and competitive devaluations
- Thailand aims to reach high-income status by 2037, requiring 12 years of sustained 4.5% annual GDP growth
- 2025 GDP growth slowed to 2.0% (vs 4.5% target), with private consumption at 4.5% and investment contracting 9.1%
- Public debt rose to 63.6% of GDP in 2025, exceeding the 60% ceiling set for high-income transition
- UK PM Andy Burnham's honeymoon period ends as parliament reconvenes amid budget and Trump-related pressures
- Low-cost populist measures like electricity bill cuts and bus fare reductions have boosted initial popularity
- Upcoming budget and Trump's potential policies pose significant governance challenges
- US college enrollment fell 0.2% YoY in 2024, extending 12-year decline with 1.5M fewer students vs 2012 peak
- Smaller private colleges face closures; larger universities now cutting programs due to budget constraints
- Demographic headwinds: 18-24yo population projected to shrink 4% by 2031 per US Census
- Government to restore higher quotas for subsidised petrol and diesel from Sept 1
- Additional funding allocated for schools and small traders to ease living costs
- Prime Minister Anwar faces rising opposition amid economic strain
- Vietnam’s public sector uses standardized metrics and performance tracking across ministries and provinces
- Central government aggregates local data for national economic planning
- Professor Bert George highlights Vietnam’s decade-long shift toward data-driven administration
- 45 of 1,984 Wang Fuk Court homeowners yet to accept government buyout offer
- 97.7% of owners (1,939 flats) have accepted buyout as of Sunday noon
- Deadline for final submissions set for Monday afternoon
Central Banks 2
- Nvidia's stock fell 4.6% on Friday, closing at $217.55 and erasing over half of its post-earnings gains from Thursday.
- The author attributes the decline to hawkish remarks by Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh at the Jackson Hole symposium, suggesting potential interest rate hikes.
- Warsh's comments significantly increased market odds for a September Fed rate hike, impacting borrowing costs across the economy.
- Higher interest rates could make financing data center buildouts, crucial for Nvidia's growth, more difficult.
- The article draws parallels between Nvidia's post-earnings sell-off pattern and previous drops seen in Intel and software stocks.
- US Treasury Secretary Bessent states yen fluctuations are 'pretty well contained', avoiding comparison to disorderly moves that triggered prior Japan-US intervention
- Bessent praises BoJ Governor Ueda as 'underrated market-savvy economist', signals BoJ will act appropriately with PM support
- US to hold 'very robust' talks with China on preventing AI model access by non-state actors; urges G20 to reassess China trade terms to reduce global imbalances
Energy/Oil 8
- Brent crude up ~1.5% to $85/bbl on supply disruption concerns
- Renewed fighting in Middle East raises risk of oil supply disruptions
- Geopolitical risk premium boosts oil prices despite ample global inventories
- Brent crude up 2.3% to ~$85/bbl after US attack on Larak Island oil terminal
- Iran-linked facilities targeted amid escalating regional tensions
- Market prices in potential supply disruption risks from Strait of Hormuz
- Planned gas-fired power capacity for data centers nearly doubled in H1 2026
- Amazon's Texas gas plant could become largest power-related emissions source in U.S.
- AI boom driving surge in energy-intensive data center infrastructure
- Advanced surfactant chemical mixtures increase oil recovery rates from shale formations by 5-15%
- Supermajors and independents are refining cocktail formulas to optimize production efficiency
- Technique helps offset natural decline rates in aging shale wells
- Freedom Fuel Network sold gas at $3.47/gal in July, promoted by Trump as 'record low prices'
- Georgia supplier Mansfield Oil alleges $4M unpaid for 1.1M gallons supplied to KRSM between May-July
- Court ordered defendants to maintain $2.75M bank balance as preliminary injunction
- SpaceX aims to cut gas turbine production time by up to 18 months via in-house casting of turbine blades/vanes
- Global AI data center power demand surge drives hyperscalers to adopt gas turbines despite pollution risks
- Memphis NAACP lawsuit and Virginia study highlight health impacts from gas turbine emissions near data centers
- Saudi Arabia to invest further in Turkey’s solar sector amid renewable energy push
- New agreement targets 3 GW of renewable energy capacity addition in Turkey
- Turkey continues expanding oil/gas production while exploring new energy routes to Europe
- Dollar Tree reports reduced balloon sales due to helium supply squeeze
- Helium shortage could signal higher costs for industries reliant on the gas
- Iran tensions exacerbate global helium supply constraints
Gold/Metals 1
- UBS strategist Sagar Khandelwal urges positioning for a sustained commodity upcycle
- Factors: electrification, AI infrastructure spending, supply constraints, and underinvestment
- Commodities seen as key beneficiaries of structural demand shifts
Crypto 5
- Bitcoin developers propose quantum-resistant cryptographic upgrades to future-proof network security
- Solana validators agree to slash inflation by canceling 18.9M SOL tokens to curb supply growth
- Bernstein forecasts Bitcoin could reach $500,000 in the current market cycle
- MicroStrategy founder Michael Saylor suggests first Bitcoin purchase since July 2024
- Firm holds 226,500 BTC (~$14.4B) valued at $63,500 per coin
- Commentary follows Bitcoin's 12% decline from recent highs
- Market makers using delta-neutral strategies to hedge Bitcoin volatility amid rally
- Revenue from spreads and fees up ~30% in Q2 vs prior quarter
- Strategy isolates gains from price moves without directional exposure
- Sberbank to accept USDT, Ether, and Bitcoin as loan collateral under new Russian crypto law
- Digital ruble demand questioned amid broader crypto integration in banking
- Move follows Russia's regulated crypto trading framework implementation
- Real Trump Coins denies authorizing any GOLD token despite X account and domain activity
- Questions arose over concentrated token supply and potential impersonation
- Incident highlights risks of crypto scams linked to high-profile figures
Geopolitics 52
- Iran launched missiles and drones at US bases in Jordan, first direct exchange since July
- US struck Larak Island in Iran, targeting launchers for Strait of Hormuz mine-carrying rockets
- Jordan intercepted 8 missiles; no reported injuries at US bases
- US forces struck two Iranian launchers on Larak Island, first direct strikes since July
- IRGC reportedly preparing to launch rockets with sea mines into Strait of Hormuz
- Iran claims attack killed/wounded several soldiers and civilians
- US threatens sanctions on nations buying Iranian crude, targeting China indirectly
- 60 entities linked to Iran trade sanctioned, including some in China/Hong Kong
- Tensions escalate three months after Xi-Biden summit
- US official Bessent anticipates new secondary sanctions against Iran will be issued weekly.
- The sanctions aim to intensify economic pressure on Iran.
- This indicates a sustained and escalating US strategy targeting Iran.
- U.S. Treasury to impose sanctions on another bank this week to isolate Iran financially
- Administration signals potential sanctions on China for continued Iranian oil purchases
- Proposed rule targets Emirati branches of Egypt’s Banque Misr, cutting U.S. financial access
- Death toll reaches 781 in Nepal and 16 in China; 3,048 people missing across Himalayas
- Rescue efforts complicated by new landslide dam, rising river levels, and mass burials of decomposed victims
- Chinese and Nepalese authorities link disaster to glacier instability from long-term climate change effects
- US airstrikes failed to trigger regional revolt against Iran-backed groups
- Analyst argues strikes inadvertently strengthened Iran’s strategic position
- Geopolitical tensions in Middle East remain elevated despite military actions
- Probe into alleged Senate election manipulation by Bhumjaithai Party (BJT) figures, including PM Anutin Charnvirakul, escalates into broader corruption investigation
- Investigation targets 9 BJT officials; Senate election results from 2024 under scrutiny for irregularities
- Probe expands to include 35 suspects, with 19 detained and 831 summoned; BJT party faces mounting pressure
- First high-level meeting since signing Mecca Joint Defence Agreement on collective security
- Agenda includes military cooperation and NATO-style mutual defense commitments
- Potential expansion to Egypt and Bangladesh under discussion, monitored by India
- PLA adopts 'systems-oriented warfare' integrating AI, comms, and logistics over individual platforms
- Taiwanese analysts highlight new defense challenges from PLA's integrated combat approach
- Shift reduces reliance on single weapons systems, complicating traditional defense planning
- U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent seeks to shrink global trade imbalances and sever Iran business ties at G20 finance meeting in Asheville
- G20 faces discord over U.S. tariffs (10-12.5% on 60 economies), Iran sanctions, and China’s 23.9% YoY export surge in July
- U.S. 30-year Treasury yields hit 19-year highs; Bessent doubles buybacks to $4B to cool yields amid $40T U.S. debt
- G20 members resist U.S. pressure on Iran sanctions and tariffs, citing adverse economic impacts and lack of consensus
- G20’s focus shifts from climate/taxes to U.S. debt, bond yields, and trade imbalances under new U.S. leadership
- U.S. imposes 50% tariffs on Canadian goods; Canada retaliates with $20B in tariffs (15%-50%) on 700+ U.S. products effective Sept. 8
- Metals ETFs (SLX +1.6%, XLB to all-time high) surged on trade-war fears but ended week negative despite 2025 YTD gains of 28% (SLX) and 18% (XLB)
- Auto sector faces integrated supply chains; no clear winners as tariffs raise costs for both sides, per Moody’s and Edward Jones
- U.S. steel producers may benefit short-term, but aluminum remains import-dependent from Canada; new capacity takes years to build
- Companies shift supply chains permanently due to tariff uncertainty, per trade-zone advocates, altering pre-2025 trade landscape
- Angola’s Lobito port and corridor now a key gateway for African minerals (cobalt/copper) to Asia-Pacific via Zambia/DRC
- Debt-for-education swap with World Bank ($400M) targets 32,000 students across 21 provinces
- New aluminum plant (240 tons/day) and $2B ammonia-urea complex (4,000 tons/day by 2027) to fill Gulf energy supply gap
- Iran states Hormuz Strait remains closed, no urgency to reopen
- IRGC claims full control over strait, denies US claims on passage
- Tensions escalate as Israeli settlers besiege Qusra in West Bank
- Glacier collapse at 5,200m altitude triggered deadly floodwaters and debris surge
- Nepal reports 781 dead, 2,502 missing; China reports 16 dead, 546 missing
- Rescue operations halted due to severe weather and risk of further flooding
- Icelanders voted 52.8% against resuming EU membership talks, 47.2% in favor
- Fishing industry sovereignty concerns outweighed geopolitical security arguments
- EU accession process had been suspended since 2013, formally ended in 2015
- G20 nations may need to impose additional trade barriers on China to reduce trade imbalances
- Suggestion comes from Bessent, highlighting concerns over China's trade practices
- Proposal aims to address structural economic imbalances between China and G20 partners
- Referendum turnout exceeded 55% with no reported incidents
- New constitution would shift system from parliamentary to presidential, granting president power to appoint/dismiss PM and dissolve parliament
- Results expected Tuesday; military leaders claim move aims to stabilize institutions ahead of December elections
- Israeli strike in Deir el-Balah kills 3-year-old child and one other Palestinian
- At least 1,303 Palestinians killed and 4,336 injured since ceasefire began
- Near-daily Israeli attacks continue despite ceasefire agreement
- Syria and Libya agree to reopen Syria's Tripoli embassy after 14 years, reactivate joint cooperation committee
- Libya and Syria discuss energy, investment, and security cooperation including counterterrorism and prisoner status
- Libya's GNU and rival factions sign deal to hold national elections within two years
- Convicted war criminal Ratko Mladic commemorated by hundreds of Bosnian Serbs
- Mladic found guilty of genocide and war crimes in Bosnian War, including Srebrenica massacre
- Event highlights ongoing ethnic divisions and contested historical narratives
- Israeli settler rabbi Menachem Ben Shahar stated non-Jews in Israel have no national rights
- Claimed Palestinians should leave occupied West Bank, citing 'enemy' status
- Suggested even children lose 'right to exist' if parents are 'enemies'
- Israeli nonprofit Frontline Advocates organized undercover operations in NYC
- Former soldiers posed as pro-Palestinian activists to engage with targets
- Operations aimed to counter pro-Palestinian advocacy in US demonstrations
- Ukraine proposes a $10B defence tech fund to attract U.S. investment
- Fund aims to bolster domestic arms production and innovation
- U.S. private equity and venture capital firms targeted for participation
- Sweden Democrats, with neo-Nazi roots, dominate ad space in Stockholm’s central train station
- Party’s nationalist rhetoric targets immigration, warning of exclusion for non-compliance
- Election in weeks may see far-right party enter government for first time
- Nicolas Maduro shown in US custody photos after January abduction
- Faces narco-terrorism and drug trafficking charges in US court
- Images shared on X account dedicated to supporters and grandchildren
- Zelensky confirms Ukraine preparing for additional talks with Trump envoys
- US and Ukraine reportedly aligned on key views regarding conflict resolution
- Former Ukrainian defense minister involved in US-led diplomatic efforts
- Opposition leader Brian Mundubile and running mate charged with treason after disputed August 13 election
- Courts closed before election result challenge deadline, blocking opposition bid
- NRPUP leader came second in election amid political tensions
- Hawala, an ancient trust-based system, remains critical for cross-border remittances in regions with limited banking access
- SWIFT, established in 1973, dominates secure international transactions but faces competition from blockchain-based alternatives
- Regulatory scrutiny intensifies as traditional systems adapt to digital fraud and sanctions evasion risks
- Uzbekistan becomes second foreign buyer of China’s J-10CE fighter
- Footage shows at least 6 of 24 ordered jets in Uzbek independence day parade
- Expands China’s foothold in Central Asian defense market
- CXMT joins Hesai, DJI, WuXi AppTec in suing US Pentagon over blacklist additions
- Recent court rulings suggest judges may challenge DoD's evidence in such cases
- Legal push reflects broader Chinese tech firms' resistance to US export controls
- Acting President Delcy Rodriguez faces criticism for granting US exclusive access to 65 billion barrels of Venezuelan crude
- Deal may strengthen Trump administration’s leverage in pushing for swift elections in Venezuela
- Hardliners and opposition factions oppose the agreement, citing sovereignty concerns
- Iceland has commenced counting votes for its referendum on continuing EU accession talks.
- Early results indicate a narrow lead for the 'yes' votes, supporting the continuation of negotiations.
- The referendum's outcome will determine Iceland's future trajectory regarding potential European Union membership.
- Japanese whistle-blower faces ¥47.88m damages claim from employer STAAR Surgical Japan
- Legal risks deter reporting despite national whistle-blower protection laws
- Uncertainty over job security and prolonged court battles discourages compliance
- Trump vows to report NBC’s Kristen Welker to FCC for calling his candidate endorsements 'mixed results'
- Trump claims 98% of his endorsed candidates won primaries, citing unverified data
- FCC under Trump previously targeted news outlets for alleged 'fake news' amid broader press freedom concerns
- Five senior officers transferred to inactive posts following raid on suspected unlicensed venue in Huai Khwang district
- Venue raid linked to organized crime and illegal activities, per police statement
- Incident raises concerns over police corruption and enforcement lapses in Bangkok
- MoU establishes regular political consultations between Thailand and Ethiopia
- Thailand to open embassy in Addis Ababa to deepen diplomatic presence
- Focus on technology transfer and value-addition for Ethiopian agricultural and raw material exports
- Seven WCK aid workers killed in April 2024 Israeli strikes in Gaza
- Vehicles were marked and route approved by Israeli authorities
- Andrés demands independent investigation into incident
- Colombia military killed key dissident leader 'Felipe'/'Arcadio' in southwest operation
- President Abelardo de la Espriella called it a 'crushing blow' to faction led by 'Ivan Mordisco'
- Operation targets dissident groups from former FARC rebels in volatile region
- Trump threatens FCC action against NBC's Kristen Welker over alleged 'mixed results' comment on his endorsed candidates
- Treasury Department denies G20 press credentials to NYT, WSJ, and Bloomberg economics reporters
- Trump administration continues pattern of restricting media access, following Pentagon's 2023 press policy changes
- 321 suspects arrested, including 28 minors, during 7-week operation
- HK$130m (US$16.5m) worth of drugs seized in 234 cases
- Operation 'Tailbacker' targeted manufacturing, possession, and trafficking
- Independent bookstore 'Have a Nice Stay' shut after 4 years following July national security police raid
- Final-day queues lasted up to 45 minutes at Prince Edward tenement location
- Closure follows broader crackdown on dissenting literature in Hong Kong
- Zhu Zhongming appointed Shanghai party chief, succeeding Gong Zheng
- Role positions Zhu as next mayor of Shanghai
- Appointment signals continued focus on financial governance in city
- Legco president seeks three-day joint debate (Oct 7-9) on policy address and five-year plan
- Extension aims to allow deeper scrutiny of government proposals
- First five-year plan under new governance structure
- Canada’s dedicated Hong Kong migration scheme closed to new applicants on Monday
- Applicants in limbo face uncertainty over permanent residency requirements
- US and UK emerge as alternative destinations for Hongkongers
- Nepal's political factions unite temporarily for flood relief after Bhotekoshi and Trishuli river floods
- Institutional mistrust and cronyism resurface as waters recede, leaving damaged infrastructure
- Prime Minister's Disaster Relief Fund sees surge in digital donations under 'one-door policy'
- 14 pirates killed in 10-day operation to free Cameroon-flagged MV Latuf off Somalia's Puntland coast
- Operation conducted under Somalia-Türkiye maritime security cooperation agreement
- Piracy surges in 2024 with 15 attacks off Somalia, highest since 2013 per IMO data
- Muslims account for ~1.6% of South Africa’s population, with deep historical roots dating to 17th-century Dutch colonial rule
- Online anti-Muslim posts surge amid immigration debates, but rural communities report peaceful coexistence with Muslim minorities
- Analysts argue online bigotry is overstated, noting lack of organized Islamophobia despite global trends
Tech/AI 14
- Southeast Asia’s battery market seen growing 74.1% YoY in 2024 to $992.1bn, per Bain
- AI and data centres now primary drivers, surpassing EV demand in regional battery growth
- Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia identified as key hubs for battery supply chain expansion
- Battery market in region projected to reach $1.62tn by 2030, per Bain estimates
- Sony Music and Warner accuse Anthropic of 'blatant theft' of copyrighted music for AI training
- Lawsuit escalates legal pressure on AI firms amid IPO plans for Anthropic
- Industry pushback grows over unlicensed use of human-made content in AI models
- $4.3B Roman Space Telescope launched on SpaceX Falcon Heavy, 1M miles from Earth
- Telescope to scan 100x wider than Hubble, uncovering billions of galaxies and dark energy secrets
- First NASA telescope named after a woman, designed for refueling to extend mission life
- LandSpace’s Zhuque-3 Y2 rocket successfully landed first stage post-orbit, matching SpaceX’s reusable rocket milestone
- China’s first land-based recovery of an orbital-class booster marks a leap in domestic space technology
- Milestone could accelerate Hong Kong’s space ambitions and commercial launch sector
- Thailand was early in 5G rollout but faces adoption gap among SMEs limiting Industry 4.0 benefits
- Ericsson highlights need for reforms to spread 5G benefits across small businesses
- Only 23% of Thai SMEs currently use 5G, lagging behind regional peers
- Waymo and Zoox test drivers sustained 26+ injuries in 2024-25 from hard braking or sudden AV movements
- Injuries included whiplash and required months-long recovery for some workers
- Other AV developers may face similar issues but are exempt from OSHA reporting requirements
- Gatik raises $200M led by Qatar Investment Authority to scale autonomous box-truck operations
- Rivian CFO Claire McDonough to depart at end of October amid robotaxi and R2 SUV scaling
- Caterpillar deploying AI tools like Cat AI Assistant for field technicians using voice commands and repair diagnostics
- Company managing 1.6M connected assets globally with 16+ petabytes of structured data for AI training
- Plans $100M workforce training investment over 5 years to upskill 118,000 employees in AI/autonomy
- Q2 revenue hit $20.5B, up 72% YoY in power-generation (data center demand) to $3.1B
- Stock up 57% since July, outpacing broader tech sector gains
- AI-focused software company benefits from strong earnings and AI demand
- Rally reflects sustained investor appetite for AI-exposed tech equities
- Meta deploying Kinova, ABB, and Watney Robotics hardware to automate server maintenance and cable management
- Robotic arm trials may replace up to 80% of manual workloads in data centers, per internal estimates
- Move aims to cut labor costs as Meta’s AI infrastructure spending accelerates
- Japan's Defense Ministry will integrate NTT's next-generation Innovative Optical Wireless Network (IOWN) core technology.
- The technology will be used for communications among Self-Defense Forces personnel and bases across Japan.
- The new network system is designed to handle AI integration.
- It will facilitate sending data from radar, sensors, and drones to command centers for AI analysis.
- AI robots and drones will be deployed to assist in removing radioactive debris from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant.
- The Japanese government and Tokyo Electric Power Co. Holdings (TEPCO) plan to launch a consortium for these efforts.
- The consortium is expected to commence operations as early as this fiscal year.
- Project launches July 2026 with focus on interactive virtual learning environments
- Aims to enhance blended and team-based education across disciplines
- Distinguishes itself from traditional lecture replication by prioritizing interactivity
- Google Maps will rename Lake Ontario to 'Lake America' in the US starting June 2025
- Change part of broader rebranding effort to simplify geography for users
- No impact on official names or legal boundaries
- AGI Bar in Zhongguancun provides free AI model tokens to patrons via in-house Wi-Fi
- Customers configure AI agents on laptops after ordering drinks, blending tech and hospitality
- Manager highlights strategy to attract tech-focused clientele in Beijing's Silicon Valley
Companies 23
- APR shares have surged nearly 100% this year, following a 360% gain last year.
- Its Medicube brand will launch in U.S. Costco stores in September, expanding its presence after Ulta, Target, and Walmart entries.
- North American sales reached 376.3 billion won ($273 million) in Q2, accounting for 49% of total revenue.
- Q2 revenue jumped 134.2% year-over-year to 767.5 billion won, with operating profit up 134.5%.
- Company raised its full-year revenue forecast to 3 trillion won from 2.1 trillion won, citing U.S. market growth.
- Aon in advanced talks to acquire USI Insurance for ~$17 billion
- KKR acquired USI in 2017 for $4.3 billion, seeking ~4x return
- Deal would expand Aon's brokerage footprint in the U.S. market
- SK On to supply 9 GWh of LFP battery cells to NeoVolta Power from 2027, expandable to 18 GWh
- Deal valued at ~1.5 trillion won ($1.09bn) with production in Georgia, US
- Partnership aligns with SK On's push into energy storage amid weaker EV battery demand
- Citi reports steady revenue growth on North America-China corridor amid US-China trade friction
- Chinese firms increase risk-hedging strategies to protect global market share
- Mainland companies leverage global institutions to navigate supply chain complexities
- Shein’s HK IPO priced at HK$48.56/share, valuing firm at ~US$26B, down 74% from 2020 private peak of US$100B
- Pre-IPO investors received US$3.5B in protections, double the US$1.7B raised in IPO
- 40% of IPO proceeds earmarked for tech upgrades to deepen ties with Guangzhou supplier network
- MicroStrategy's CEO Michael Saylor indicates Bitcoin purchases may restart after a two-month pause
- Strategy aims to strengthen balance sheet amid Bitcoin's recent price volatility
- Company holds ~214,000 BTC (~$14.5B) as of latest disclosure
- Meta settles with 41 US states for $17bn over alleged harm to youth mental health via Facebook/Instagram
- Settlement includes daily usage limits, nighttime blocks, and enhanced age verification for teens
- Moore (former tobacco litigator) pushes for national public education fund to combat social media addiction
- Tech industry warns rapid AI/social media evolution complicates regulatory fixes
- Retailers received $730M–$2.9B in tariff refunds post-Supreme Court ruling, boosting Q2 profits by 0.3%–1.6% in gross margins
- Value-focused retailers (Home Depot, Walmart, TJX) used refunds to cut prices, while others (Lowe’s, Target) prioritized margin expansion or inventory investment
- Analysts warn inflated Q2 earnings set a higher bar for 2025 comparisons, complicating future outlook assessments
- Diageo, Pernod Ricard, and other majors revised down FY24 sales growth to 3-5% from prior 6-8%
- Weak consumer spending in China and Europe cited as primary drags
- Inventory destocking by retailers adding to pressure on distillers
- Exxon Mobil (XOM) raised to $177 PT by Morgan Stanley, citing 20% higher FCF estimates for H2 2026 and 7% for 2027
- Expand Energy (EXE) PT lifted to $113 by Goldman Sachs, with 11% FCF yield and $1.25B Twin Eagle acquisition boosting growth
- Diamondback Energy (FANG) PT increased to $220, with Q2 2026 production at 1,018 Mboe/d exceeding guidance
- Deutsche Bank rates Shuanghuan ‘buy’ with 45 yuan target, citing humanoid robot gearbox potential
- Bernstein sees Shuanghuan as key beneficiary of China’s EV-to-robotics supply chain convergence
- UBS trimmed target to 50 yuan but highlights AI/humanoid robotics as future growth driver
- GM announces C$1.1 billion investment in Canadian manufacturing facilities
- Investment aims to bolster supply chain resilience amid U.S. tariff pressures
- Part of broader strategy to secure North American production capacity
- An insurer associated with Mark Walter made billions in short-term loans to its affiliates.
- These loans were scheduled to mature by the end of August.
- The maturity of these loans could intensify a funding squeeze on the Dodgers' owner, Mark Walter.
- BMW Motorrad CEO Markus Flasch is seeking collaboration with Indian and Chinese motorcycle manufacturers.
- This strategy aims to address the challenging competitive environment posed by lower-cost rivals.
- BMW Motorrad emphasizes brand name, heritage, and quality as crucial factors alongside pricing.
- The move reflects a response to the shifting global motorcycle market landscape.
- Record revenue achieved in H2 2026 amid reported turnaround
- Details on revenue growth and operational improvements not disclosed
- Management highlights strategic initiatives driving performance
- FF to unveil new robotics products in Middle East market
- Expansion follows prior EV and tech partnerships in region
- Deal may include local manufacturing or distribution agreements
- Liux Big microcar priced below €18,000 with 260L trunk, targeting second-car urban buyers
- Startup secured Europe-wide homologation, plans 2026 launch; 7,500+ on waiting list
- Uses linen-based biocomposite body and recyclable components, aiming for 'real circularity'
- Gerald J. Ford and his children locked in succession dispute over Hilltop Holdings ($2B financial-services firm)
- Family disagreement could disrupt corporate governance and strategic direction
- Potential outcomes include leadership changes or asset restructuring
- Yibin, home to Wuliangye, is redirecting economic focus from baijiu to new-energy sectors
- Local officials promoting investment in lithium batteries, solar and EV components
- Shift reflects broader push to diversify Sichuan’s industrial base beyond traditional industries
- Suzuki Motor has commenced sales of 'kei'-sized small cars in Brunei.
- The models, Alto and Every, are being exported from Suzuki's subsidiary in Pakistan.
- This marks Suzuki's first instance of exporting minicars from an overseas production base.
- Tokyo Port Brewery operates in central Tokyo's Minato Ward, challenging conventional sake production locations.
- The brewery utilizes tap water and moisture drawn from the air, departing from sake's traditional reliance on famous water sources.
- This approach tests the concept of "terroir" in sake making, typically associated with specific regional water.
- Yoshimi Terasawa is the president and master brewer behind this innovative urban operation.
- InvestingPro promotion offers up to 55% discount in final hours
- Discount applies to subscription pricing for financial research platform
- PetroChina withdrew its first-half earnings report after publishing outdated figures
- A revised version of the earnings release will be issued
- No financial impact or market reaction reported
Thai Markets 5
- July e-payment transactions rose to 4.57 billion, up 95.2% YoY
- Transaction value reached 10.6 trillion baht, up 2.21% MoM
- Mobile e-wallet usage surged 5.01% YoY to 2.72 billion transactions
- QR code payments accounted for 32.4% of total transactions in July
- Government accelerating excise tax overhaul to retain automotive investment
- Review targets traditional and EV segments amid industry transition
- Spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek confirms policy acceleration
- Average smartphone price rose 4.5% YoY to $273 in Thailand, driven by higher memory costs
- Shipments declined 11.8% YoY to 6.85 million units in Q2 2024
- Entry-level models squeezed as premium segment grows, with 5-4 tier average price up 6%
- Premium segment (above $600) now accounts for 12.7% of shipments vs 11.8% YoY
- EC rejects claims it will charge only 10 people in Senate election collusion case
- Total of 82 suspects identified, with 41 already facing charges
- EC asserts full investigation will proceed without narrowing scope
- Thai Transport Minister orders agencies to accelerate coastal erosion controls in Thepha district, Songkhla
- Highway 43, a critical route to southern border provinces, at risk from severe shoreline erosion
- Erosion in Songkhla has worsened by 2 meters annually over past decade, with 53 affected areas reported
Other 34
- A total of 2,980 people are still missing following flash floods and landslides along the Nepal-Tibet border.
- The confirmed death toll has reached 682, with figures expected to change amidst ongoing chaos.
- Nepal accounts for 2,426 of the missing, while 554 are missing on the Tibetan side of the border.
- At least 777 foreigners are among the missing, including 517 in Nepal and 260 in Tibet.
- Major nationalities with significant numbers missing include Indian (98), US (90), Ukrainian (61), Malaysian (51), and Australian (42).
- Private-placement life insurance (PPLI) is a customizable insurance contract.
- It allows for unlimited investments to grow tax-free.
- Wealthy Americans are utilizing PPLI as a tax-efficient investment vehicle.
- Southeast Asian nations should unite to secure stronger negotiating positions for their content.
- The strategy aims to return greater value to local right holders, mirroring South Korea's success.
- Thai LGBT dramas are highlighted as an example of content gaining increasing viewership outside local markets.
- Launched via SpaceX Falcon Heavy, costing ~$4bn with 5-10 year mission lifespan
- Designed to create 3D map of >2bn galaxies to study dark energy (~68% of universe) and dark matter (~27%)
- Expected to deliver first high-resolution images before winter holidays, complementing Hubble/Webb
- WhatsApp hijacking scams rose 169.7% YoY to 1,993 cases in Jan-Jul 2025
- Total losses from scams reached HK$146.3 million (US$18.6m)
- Highest single victim loss reported at HK$12.2 million (US$1.55m)
- Army's Janus Program allocates $2.2B for 1-20 MW microreactors by 2028
- Reactors designed for remote military bases with city-scale power needs
- Aims to reduce fossil fuel dependency in conflict zones
- 12345 hotline integrates 30+ government services into a unified platform
- AI-driven analytics now predict issues before formal complaints arise
- Response times cut by ~40% in pilot cities since 2020
- Baricitinib (arthritis drug) restored 100% hair regrowth in some severe alopecia areata patients
- Global trial results published in *New England Journal of Medicine*
- Condition affects ~200M people worldwide; no FDA-approved treatments exist
- Smartwatch health alerts prompted a Hong Kong woman in her 20s to seek medical help, uncovering a serious condition
- Experts warn wearables should supplement, not replace, professional medical advice
- Hong Kong’s wellness trend driving adoption of wearable health-tracking devices
- 14 infants killed in Islamabad hospital fire within 2 minutes
- 8 officials suspended; criminal proceedings initiated
- Premier Sharif orders probe into safety lapses
- China publishes 60-volume catalog of 23,000 ancient bronzes held in ~30 countries
- Project aims to map lost heritage and track cultural artifacts abroad
- Effort spans 14 years of research by Peking University scholars
- Hong Kong's low fertility rate is viewed as an opportunity, not a challenge, by a former UN official.
- The city could become a global leader in creating a child-friendly environment.
- A 'pioneering blueprint' could be developed for other regions to follow.
- Hong Kong aims to achieve 'Child Friendly City' status under a UN initiative.
- The Jab Jab masquerade is a dawn parade marking the start of Notting Hill Carnival.
- Participants don devil horns and cover themselves in motor oil.
- It is a Grenadian tradition continued annually in London.
- Hundreds participate in the event.
- Google Maps renamed Lake Ontario to 'Lake America' for US users following Trump's executive order
- Change coincides with escalating US-Canada trade war and tariff imposition
- Similar renaming occurred in 2025 under Trump's prior directive
- Flash flood in Grand Canyon’s Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch area
- ~15 people unaccounted for; earlier reports suggested 20+ missing
- No confirmed deaths or injuries reported
- US citizen detained in Phuket hotel with 8 active warrants for alleged child sexual offenses
- Arrest follows international cooperation between Thai and US authorities
- Case highlights cross-border law enforcement efforts on child protection
- 12TB leak covers Steam2 server data from 2003-2013, including prototypes and pre-release builds
- Includes thousands of game versions, some previously unseen, from Valve and third-party publishers
- Leak stems from Steam2's proprietary file system, replaced by SteamPipe in 2013
- Lamine Yamal improving after slow start to La Liga season, per Barcelona coach Hansi Flick
- Teenager played full 90 minutes vs Athletic Bilbao, showing signs of recovery from hamstring injury
- Flick notes Yamal's morale and performance have rebounded ahead of Monday's match vs Rayo Vallecano
- Forensic analysis at Khlong Thom Center fire site starts today at 8am
- Over 100 witnesses and victims questioned in ongoing investigation
- Police report 6 deaths and 103 injured from the incident
- Myanmar’s khao swè and Thailand’s khao soi are distinct despite phonetic similarity
- Cultural exchange underscores deepening economic and diplomatic relations between Myanmar and Thailand
- Thai noodle brands expanding into Myanmar amid rising regional integration
- Video shows lorry swept away by floodwaters in Rodriguez, Philippines
- Passengers escaped before vehicle fell into creek
- Torrential monsoon rains battering the region
- Real Madrid win 4-0 over Malaga with goals from Bellingham, Mbappe, and Guler
- Jose Mourinho's side maintains perfect 3-0 start in La Liga with nine points
- Bellingham and Mbappe score as Real Madrid lead league by two points
- Bruno Fernandes scored a hat-trick in Manchester United's 5-2 comeback win over newly-promoted Ipswich Town
- United's victory followed a 2-0 loss to Hull City last weekend, highlighting early-season inconsistency
- Fernandes' performance underscored his role as United's key attacking difference-maker despite defensive concerns
- Ferry carrying ~270 passengers capsized off northern Cyprus due to adverse weather
- At least 8 dead, 237 rescued; 22 still missing as search continues
- Incident occurred 15 minutes after departure from port
- CityUHK prioritized direct human support over formal strategy in Tai Po fire response
- Professor Cherry Tam highlights institutional duty to care for affected individuals
- Academic expertise deployed immediately to address crisis aftermath
- Private afforestation effort in Alxa, Inner Mongolia, targets desert restoration via landscape, livelihood, and governance redesign
- Project at Malan Lake aims to stabilize 30-meter-high dunes advancing several meters annually
- Founder Mr. Yuen Shu Wah seeks scalable model for desert ecosystems and local economic transformation
- 40,000 people in Hong Kong live with schizophrenia, straining care systems
- Current system focuses on symptom stabilization rather than long-term reintegration
- Academics propose shifting from clinical to social-behavioral approaches post-treatment
- Fashion industry leveraged as driver for systemic change in governance and sustainability
- 2025 event 'Fashion to Reconnect' showcased cultural innovation in two global fashion hubs
- Policymakers urged to integrate cultural approaches alongside traditional regulatory frameworks
- 26-year-old Bernice Yuen wins Miss Hong Kong 2026 pageant
- Yuen, a theme park performer, was among pre-competition favorites
- Final held at TVB City in Tseung Kwan O with 11 other contenders
- Wildlife rescue in West Kalimantan amid severe forest fires
- Rescued orangutan battling respiratory illness from smoke exposure
- Indonesia intensifies haze containment efforts across Borneo and Sumatra
- Happy couples avoid tallying favors owed, reducing resentment over time
- Exchange relationships (tracking inputs/outputs) erode satisfaction vs communal ones (trust-based)
- Unequal invisible labor linked to stress, lower life/relationship satisfaction per 2023 review
- Second pit bull lineage dog seized by Hong Kong authorities in a week
- Public concern over canine management heightened after fatal dog attack
- Authorities face backlash over enforcement amid safety debates
- Korean dating show 'Love Against Time' featuring contestants with serious illnesses goes viral in China
- Show highlights courage of participants in pursuing love despite health challenges
- Chinese social media users laud the program for its emotional depth and inspiration
- Mother of late Cantopop icon Anita Mui dies at 102 after collapsing in Causeway Bay flat
- Domestic helper found her unconscious and called emergency services at 10:30am local time
- Victim rushed to Ruttonjee Hospital but pronounced dead on arrival
No stories match “”.