Chinese companies are receiving millions in US tariff rebates and accrued interest from US Customs and Border Protection, significantly boosting their profits.

Taiwan is investigating 17 China-funded companies suspected of illegally poaching high-tech talent from the island. The probe aims to address concerns about intellectual property and human capital flight.

A bipartisan group of US senators has urged Apple Inc. to avoid purchasing memory chips from blacklisted Chinese semiconductor suppliers CXMT Corp. and Yangtze Memory Technologies Co., warning of the risks of reliance on a US adversary.

Beijing has blacklisted 14 EU companies, prohibiting them from obtaining Chinese dual-use goods, in response to Brussels targeting Chinese firms in its latest Russia sanctions package.

Volvo Cars is exploring a new strategy for the Chinese market, aiming to sell only electric vehicles with Chinese technology. The company is also open to allowing Chinese firms to build their cars in Volvo's European factories.

Pakistan's ambassador to China highlighted 21 priority sectors for investment at a Gansu trade conference, aiming to attract Chinese firms.

China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed hope that the Polish government will continue to provide an open, transparent, and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese companies, amidst trade barrier discussions with Brussels.

Chinese AI company DeepSeek plans to develop its own chips, joining a global trend as Chinese firms seek domestic hardware solutions due to restricted access to Western chips. This move could also affect Huawei.

American artificial intelligence companies claim that Chinese imitators, such as Alibaba, are rapidly catching up by secretly copying their AI technologies through a technique called distillation.

India has permitted four Chinese power equipment manufacturers to bid on critical government power projects, a move that has been criticized by the Congress party.

The European Union has implemented a €3.40 fee on low-value parcels, a move aimed at curbing unfair competition from foreign online retailers like Shein, Temu, and AliExpress. This measure is expected to impact Chinese e-commerce firms.

Chinese firms showcased their air defense weapons at the Eurosatory arms fair, competing globally in a market increasingly shaped by drone warfare in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Trade tensions between Beijing and Brussels are rising, forcing Chinese firms in the EU to navigate increased regulatory hurdles while expanding their presence in the European market.

Beijing has warned of a resolute response to the Pentagon’s newly expanded blacklist of Chinese companies, accusing Washington of using national security as a pretext to curb the development of Chinese firms.

An Ambani-backed robot startup is reportedly seeking $100 million in funding to compete with Chinese firms in the robotics sector.

Washington is taking steps to block Chinese firms located outside China from accessing advanced AI chips.

Chinese companies are reportedly exploring potential investment opportunities in Uzbekistan, focusing on the construction and textile industries.

Germany and Spain are reportedly resisting a European plan aimed at banning Chinese firms, a move seen by some as valuing market principles.

A new report indicates that Chinese firms are increasing their global expansion efforts, pushing into international markets despite facing various economic risks.

Pakistani and Chinese firms have signed investment deals worth $7 billion during a business-to-business conference in Hangzhou, where Pakistan's Prime Minister highlighted opportunities in the agriculture and mineral sectors.

Chinese firms are reportedly providing Russia with drones, nitrocellulose for rockets, and other materials, quietly aiding its efforts in the Ukraine conflict.

Local companies in Indonesia are reportedly echoing concerns previously raised by Chinese firms regarding the country's business climate, indicating shared challenges.

Cryptic statements from two major Chinese defense companies suggest they may have once again broken the long-distance shooting record for sniper rifles.

The US has approved chip sales to ten Chinese companies, while Nvidia is reportedly looking for a breakthrough in the market. This development comes amidst ongoing tech competition between the two nations.

The US has exclusively cleared the sale of H200 chips to ten Chinese companies, as Nvidia's CEO seeks a breakthrough in the market.

Nigeria is seeking assistance from Chinese firms to address its struggling refineries, following the squandering of $25 billion on previous overhaul attempts that failed to improve their functionality.

Growing outrage surrounds a Memorandum of Understanding signed between NNPC Limited and two Chinese firms for the rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries in Nigeria.

A report indicates that Israeli and Chinese companies spied on telecommunications users globally, facilitated by a Swiss firm and involving entities like Israel's Rayzone.

A Kenyan court has permitted investors to auction 26 vehicles to recover Sh158 million owed by Chinese firms, following a legal dispute.

Analysts predict Chinese tech companies will boost their AI spending this year due to rising domestic demand, as their US counterparts continue to outpace them in artificial intelligence investments.

China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) stated that it would take measures to protect the rights and interests of Chinese firms if they face discriminatory treatment under the EU's revised Cybersecurity Act.

An analysis explores how Hong Kong can surpass Singapore as the preferred launch pad for Chinese enterprises venturing overseas, highlighting their respective advantages in capital markets and legal systems.

The U.S. House of Representatives is set to consider legislation that would impose penalties on Chinese firms found to be copying American artificial intelligence models. This move aims to address intellectual property concerns and protect U.S. technological innovation.

A new survey indicates that 83 percent of Europeans distrust US tech companies, with Chinese firms facing even greater skepticism, though few have switched providers.

The Nairobi Railway City project is highlighted as a rare instance of collaboration between British and Chinese firms in infrastructure development in Africa, amidst intensifying geopolitical rivalries.

An ex-OpenAI executive states that traditional corporate culture and hierarchies are hindering AI adoption in Chinese enterprises, causing them to fall behind their US counterparts despite rapid consumer embrace of AI.

The European Union has cautioned Vietnam that the involvement of Chinese firms in its 5G network development could deter potential investors.

Reports indicate that Chinese firms are increasingly dominating and taking over Zimbabwe's cement industry, raising questions about local control and market dynamics.

Beijing has instructed Chinese companies to enhance their risk prevention strategies in Zimbabwe following a ban on mineral exports from the African nation.

Google is reportedly in discussions with China's Envicool and other companies to procure cooling systems for its data centers, indicating potential collaborations in critical infrastructure technology despite broader geopolitical tensions.

Thai police have dismantled a network of Chinese companies accused of using local fronts to manipulate the kingdom's coconut supply, driving prices down to record lows and enabling large profit margins on exports to China.

China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) has criticized the EU’s Industrial Accelerator Act, labeling it as creating serious investment barriers and institutional discrimination against Chinese firms.

An ADP executive highlights that Chinese companies operating in Malaysia face challenges due to cultural and legal differences.

The United States was out in force in Cape Town this month, throwing down a direct challenge to China at Africa’s biggest mining conference, the Investing in African Mining Indaba. While Chinese firms showed their technological leadership with automation and green energy solutions, officials from the State Department, the Department of Energy and several US development agencies were among the record number of American diplomats and financiers at the event in South Africa. Analysts said the US...

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz began a visit to China Wednesday aimed at resetting relations between the world’s second- and third-largest economies by urging Chinese firms to in...

Anthropic has accused several Chinese companies of engaging in 'industrial-scale' data siphoning from its Claude AI models, raising concerns about intellectual property and data security.

Microsoft President Brad Smith stated that US tech companies should be concerned about the government subsidies provided by Beijing to Chinese firms, highlighting competitive challenges.

The surge in China's artificial intelligence sector, partly fueled by companies like DeepSeek, has led to a significant increase in data center prices in Hong Kong as Chinese firms use the city to test models and expand globally.

A survey reveals that over 90% of mainland Chinese enterprises plan to expand overseas within the next two years, with more than 80% intending to use Hong Kong as their primary launch pad into Southeast Asia.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has voted to prohibit the sale of new communications equipment that contains components from Chinese companies deemed to pose national security risks.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has indicated the company is prepared to reduce the prices of its latest artificial intelligence models, intensifying competition with rivals like Anthropic and rapidly advancing Chinese firms.

Many mainland Chinese businesses that participated in a Hong Kong-led delegation to Central Asia are preparing to list in Hong Kong to raise capital for global expansion, according to Chief Executive John Lee.

Major US artificial intelligence companies are calling for measures against Chinese firms, alleging that they are copying their AI models through a process known as 'distillation'.

A recent survey indicates that Chinese companies are increasingly opting for local artificial intelligence suppliers over Nvidia.

Four Chinese companies with manufacturing facilities in India have received clearance to participate in bidding for power projects within the country.

A new proposal suggests Shanghai should develop into a leading finance hub to serve the growing outbound investment needs of Chinese firms, potentially increasing its rivalry with Hong Kong.

Chinese firms are rapidly increasing their share in the European home appliance market, leading to Polish factories losing orders and jobs. Experts warn that without changes in EU policy, production may shift outside Europe.

Both U.S. and Chinese AI companies are establishing operations in Singapore, positioning the country as a potential neutral hub for artificial intelligence in Asia.

Serbian opposition leader Dragan Đilas has alleged that Chinese firms in Serbia have received contracts worth over 20 billion euros, with prices two to four times higher than their value in China and the EU. He claims these deals are significantly overpriced.

Senator Elizabeth Warren has urged the Trump administration to close a loophole that allows advanced AI chips to be sent to overseas units of Chinese companies. Her call highlights concerns over technology transfer and national security.

A new report by the OECD states that companies in China receive, on average, eight times more state support than their rivals in rich-world countries, leading to market share gains.

Chinese firms are expressing an optimistic outlook regarding the future of Sino-UK relations.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has reignited discussions about constructing nuclear power plants in the country, indicating that Chinese companies could be potential builders for these projects.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has sealed Inner Galaxy Steel Company and Jiuxing Integrity Industrial Ltd, two Chinese firms, following allegations of railway theft and infrastructure vandalism.

Chinese Firms Speed Up Plans to Build New Coal Power Plants: GEM Bloomberg.com

Hong Kong is highlighted as a crucial hub for Chinese companies expanding globally, while mainland brands, particularly in fashion, beauty, and food and beverage, are driving the city's retail sector recovery.

The United States has indicted four Chinese container manufacturers, accusing them of operating a price-fixing cartel during the pandemic era. This action targets alleged monopolistic practices in the shipping container industry.

The article discusses the relocation of Chinese firms, likely exploring the reasons and implications behind such movements.

Indonesia's finance minister Purbaya is defending the country's policies after Chinese businesses lodged a complaint with President Prabowo Subianto, citing increased costs and uncertainty due to shifts in mining, export earnings, and enforcement.

China's decision to block Meta's $2 billion acquisition of Manus AI signals a potential shift, making Singapore a less effective pathway for Chinese tech firms seeking exits to Western markets, despite Manus's Singapore registration.

The Nigeria Employers' Consultative Association (NECA) has raised serious concerns regarding a Memorandum of Understanding signed between NNPCL and Chinese firms for refinery rehabilitation, amidst an ongoing $25 billion controversy.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for the immediate suspension of the NNPC refinery deal with Chinese firms, labeling it a dangerous gamble and questioning the firms' competence.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Chinese firms to facilitate the revival of the Warri and Port Harcourt refineries.

The article explores instances where car manufacturers like Peugeot and Mitsubishi made questionable naming choices, and discusses the challenges faced by Chinese car companies with names that are difficult to pronounce or market internationally.

Taiwanese officials have accused Chinese firms of attempting to circumvent import restrictions by rerouting vegetables through neighboring Vietnam. Taipei alleges this 'vegetable laundering' is a bid to evade trade barriers.

Foreign carmakers are increasingly forming partnerships with Chinese companies in what is described as a 'joint venture in reverse' to gain a competitive edge. This strategy aims to leverage local expertise and market access.

The US State Department has ordered a global initiative to highlight alleged widespread efforts by Chinese companies, including AI startup DeepSeek, to steal intellectual property from US artificial intelligence laboratories.

Chinese companies are participating in the Hannover Messe, an industrial trade fair, to demonstrate their contributions to mutually beneficial cooperation.

China's central bank has increased the limit on banks’ overseas lending, a move analysts believe will support Chinese firms in expanding outbound investments and help stabilize the yuan. Regulators raised the overseas-loan leverage ratio for foreign banks.

Chinese companies are reportedly boosting their hiring efforts as they pursue a global expansion strategy.

A group of Chinese companies is expected to gain significantly from the energy crisis triggered by the war in the Middle East, building on their substantial investments in artificial intelligence.

Over 100 Chinese companies, including major players like CATL and BYD, are actively competing in the development and production of perovskite solar cells. This signifies a significant push in China's renewable energy sector.

After a 16-year absence, Google is reportedly in talks with Chinese firms, including Envicool, to source liquid cooling equipment for its AI infrastructure, indicating a potential re-engagement with the Chinese market.

Chinese firms seek to loosen the West’s grip on lucrative snow business  The Straits Times

Baden-Wurttemberg stands on the front line of Germany’s “China shock 2.0”. A hub for carmakers including Mercedes-Benz, the region has faced a wave of job cuts over the past year as Chinese firms rapidly gain global market share. In the German media, some have warned the area risks becoming “Germany’s Detroit”. Yet despite the economic strain – and polls showing the economy was the top issue for local voters – China barely featured in campaigns during the run-up to Baden-Wurttemberg’s state...

Chinese companies have voiced strong criticism against the European Union's 'Made in Europe' plan, labeling it as protectionist.

Chinese smartphone giants like Xiaomi and Oppo are experiencing their first sales dip in India in a decade. Demand has shifted significantly towards premium devices, impacting brands dominant in the entry and mid-level segments. While Chinese firms still lead in unit sales, their market value share is declining, benefiting Apple and Samsung.

Chinese firms are defying the global ‘AI scare trade’  Taipei Times

Futures, Global Markets Rise With US Markets Closed For President's Day Stocks gained, bitcoin tumbled and bonds steadied after Friday's cool CPI data reinforced expectations that the Fed will cut interest rates on multiple occasions this year. With US markets closed for the Presidents’ Day holiday and mainland China’s markets closed for Lunar New Year holidays, trading was muted on Monday. As of 9:00am ET, futures on the S&P 500 added 0.4% and Europe’s Stoxx 600 index rose 0.4% as banking shares rebounded from a sharp decline last week. German bunds and Treasury futures were steady after US yields touched the lowest since December on Friday. The path of US interest rates remains in focus following Friday’s slower-than-expected US inflation print as traders fully price a Fed cut in July and the strong chance of a move in June.   “The backdrop for equities is positive post CPI,” said Andrea Gabellone, head of global equities at KBC Securities. At the same time, there could be “more dispersion ahead as sentiment around key AI-exposed sectors is still very critical,” he added.  That sentiment was echoed by other strategists seeking to distinguish between AI losers and winners. A JPMorgan Chase & Co. team led by Mislav Matejka urged caution on stocks at risk of AI-driven “cannibalization,” including software, business services and media companies. Meanwhile, banks are developing baskets to capitalize on the divergence: as we first reported last Thursday, Goldman launched a new basket of software stocks that goes long firms that will benefit from AI adoption, while shorting the companies whose workflows could be replaced. With AI disruption rippling through markets, a lot will come down to earnings resilience, in particular in the US.  “When you look at the current earnings season, the companies are showing 13% of growth,” Nataliia Lipikhina, head of EMEA equity strategy at JPMorgan, told Bloomberg TV. “Overall, this is the reason why we continue to be positive on the S&P.” Later this week, traders will be watching for ADP private payrolls numbers on Tuesday and the minutes from the Fed’s January meeting on Wednesday for a fresh read on the economy. European stocks gained with bank shares rebounding, after posting their biggest weekly decline since April on worries about disruption from artificial intelligence. The basic resources sector lags, with Norsk Hydro among Europe’s worst performers as both Goldman Sachs and RBC downgrade the stock. Stoxx 600 rises 0.4% to 620.26 with 253 members down, 336 up, and 11 unchanged. Here are some of the biggest movers on Monday:  NatWest shares rise as much as 4%, the most since October, as Citi analyst Andrew Coombs raises his price target on the UK bank to a Street-high. Seraphim Space shares rise as much as 9.2%, briefly hitting a new all-time high, after the space tech investment firm said the valuations of its four largest holdings increased over the final months of 2025. AECI shares rally as much as 6.1%, the most since July, after the South African commercial-explosives maker shared improved 2025 headline earnings per share guidance. Orsted shares rise as much as 3.8% after analysts at Kepler raise the recommendation to buy from hold over the Danish renewable energy firm’s outlook, despite ongoing uncertainty for the industry in the US. Norsk Hydro shares fall as much as 4.4%, extending Friday’s 5.9% earnings-triggered drop, after being downgraded at Goldman Sachs and RBC over disappointments and pricing pressures in the Norwegian aluminum company’s downstream business. Galderma shares slip as much as 2.2% after naming Luigi La Corte as its new chief financial officer following the news back in July that Thomas Dittrich was departing. Pinewood Technologies shares tumble as much as 32%, the most since April 2024, after Apax Partners said on Friday it will not proceed with a possible cash offer for the car dealership software provider. FlatexDEGIRO shares drop as much as 7.2% after BNP Paribas downgraded the online brokerage firm to neutral from outperform, saying the price reflects too much optimism about its market position in Germany. Maurel & Prom shares slump as much as 12%, pulling back after ending last week at a 2015-high, after announcing it is not currently authorized to resume oil and gas operations in Venezuela. Barratt Redrow shares fall as much as 3.7%, leading a drop in British homebuilders after Rightmove said house prices are stalling. Asian stocks slipped for a second day, led by declines in Japan as traders booked profits after last week’s post-election rally. Several markets were closed or held shortened trading sessions for the Lunar New Year holiday. The MSCI Asia Pacific Index was down 0.1%. Japan’s Topix Index fell 0.8%, with Mizuho Financial Group Inc. and Toyota Motor Corp. among the companies contributing to the index’s losses.In Hong Kong, AI model developer Minimax Group Inc. surged as much as 30% to more than four times its original listing price, while competitor Knowledge Atlas JSC Ltd. ended 4.7% higher. The market will be closed until Thursday. As investors across the region begin to reevaluate their bets on its artificial-intelligence-driven rally, traders in Japan cashed in gains driven by expectations of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s proactive spending policies last week.Trading in Singapore ended early Monday and will be shut until Wednesday. Equity markets in mainland China, South Korea, Indonesia and Vietnam were closed.  In FX, the yen is the notable mover in currencies, weakening 0.5% against the dollar and pushing USD/JPY back above 153. The offshore yuan is one of the better performers against the greenback. The Bloomberg Dollar Spot Index rises 0.1%. There is no cash trading in Treasuries due to the Presidents’ Day holiday. European government bonds are little changed In commdities, gold dipped below $5,000 an ounce, as traders booked profits from a gain in the previous session. Bitcoin tried anf ailed to stage a modest rebound; it last traded around $68,275 after posting its fourth consecutive weekly loss, with the cryptocurrency struggling to find clear direction as a weekend rally fizzled once the momentum ignition algos emerged.  WTI crude futures tread water near $62.90 a barrel.  Top Headlines President Trump said there will be voter ID rules in the mid-term elections this year, whether Congress approves it or not, and they will present a legal argument in an Executive Order. Furthermore, Trump said he has searched the depths of legal arguments not yet articulated nor vetted on this subject, and they will be presenting an irrefutable one in the very near future. Iran says potential energy, mining and aircraft deals on table in talks with US: RTRS Pentagon threatened to cut its ties with Anthropic over the company’s insistence that some limitations are kept on how the military uses its AI models: RTRS UK eyes rapid ban on social media for under 16s, curbs to AI chatbots: RTRS Rampant AI Demand for Memory Is Fueling a Growing Chip Crisis: BBG Warner Bros. Weighs Reopening Sale Negotiations With Paramount: BBG Companies Are Replacing CEOs in Record Numbers—and They’re Getting Younger: WSJ Europe aims to rely less on US defence after Trump's Greenland push: RTRS DOJ Tells Lawmakers Epstein File Redactions Complied With LawL BBG For College Applicants, Pressure to Make Summers Count Has Gotten Even Worse: WSJ Fed's Goolsbee (2027 voter) said on Friday that they are still seeing pretty high services inflation, and he hopes they have seen the peak impact of tariffs, while he added that the job market has been steady, with only modest cooling.  The Break Is Over. Companies Are Jacking Up Prices Again: WSJ Trade/Tariffs USTR Greer said the US and Ecuador expect to sign a trade agreement in the coming weeks. China will waive import value-added taxes on selected seeds, genetic resources, and police dogs through to 2030 to increase agricultural competitiveness and breeding capacity. It was also reported that China will grant zero-tariff access to 53 African nations from May 1st, according to Bloomberg. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told his French and German counterparts that China and the EU are partners, not rivals, while he added that China and the EU should manage differences, deepen practical cooperation and work together on global challenges. A more detailed look at global markets courtesy of Newsquawk APAC stocks began the week in the green but with gains limited following a lack of major fresh catalysts from over the weekend and amid thinned conditions owing to holiday closures in the region and North America. ASX 200 traded marginally higher with upside led by tech, although gains are capped by underperformance in the utilities, mining, materials and resources sectors, while participants also digested a slew of earnings releases. Nikkei 225 traded indecisively with the index constrained by disappointing Japanese preliminary Q4 GDP data, which showed the economy returned to growth but failed to meet expectations with GDP Q/Q at 0.1% (exp. 0.4%), and annualised GDP at 0.2% (exp. 1.6%). Hang Seng finished higher in a shortened trading session on Chinese New Year's Eve but with upside limited by tech weakness amid some confusion after the Pentagon added several companies including Baidu, Cosco, BYD, Huawei, Nio, SMIC, Tencent, and more to a list of Chinese firms aiding the military on Friday, but then withdrew the updated list shortly after it was posted. Furthermore, price action was also restricted by the closure of mainland markets and the absence of stock connect flows, which will remain shut for more than a week. US equity futures kept afloat in quiet trade amid the absence of drivers and participants. European equity futures indicate a mildly positive cash market open with Euro Stoxx 50 futures up 0.1% after the cash market closed with losses of 0.4% on Friday. Asian Headlines Chinese President Xi called for the anchoring of economic growth around domestic demand as its main driver, in a speech during a key policy meeting late last year that was released on Sunday. China is to establish a permanent financial support framework to promote rural revitalisation and prevent a slide back into poverty, which represents a shift from transitional aid to long-term support. China’s market regulator summoned major online platform companies on Friday, including Alibaba, Douyin and Meituan, while it directed them to comply with laws and regulations, and rein in promotional practices, according to Bloomberg. US Secretary of State Rubio and Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi reaffirmed their commitment to deepen bilateral ties. Disney (DIS) sent a ‘cease and desist’ letter to ByteDance over Seedance 2.0 and alleged that ByteDance has been infringing on its IP to train and develop an AI video generation model without compensation, according to Axios. It was later reported that ByteDance said it would curb its AI video app following Disney's legal threats, according to the BBC. RBI tightened rules for loans provided to brokers and proprietary firms in an effort to reduce market speculation FX DXY eked slight gains in rangebound trade after a lack of major catalysts and with US participants away on Monday. EUR/USD was little changed amid the absence of any major macro catalysts and with light newsflow from the bloc, while comments from ECB President Lagarde and news that the ECB is to make its repo backstop available to other central banks across the world, did little to spur price action. GBP/USD held on to most of Friday's spoils but with price action contained by resistance around 1.3650 and following comments from BoE's Mann that the UK economy is sluggish and tepid, with consumers spending less due to being scarred by high inflation. USD/JPY edged higher and returned to above the 153.00 level in the aftermath of the weaker-than-expected preliminary Q4 GDP data for Japan. Antipodeans were mixed with little fresh macro drivers and a lack of tier-1 data from either side of the Tasman. Fixed Income 10yr UST futures traded little changed and held on to last week's spoils after returning above the 113.00 level in the aftermath of the softer US inflation data, while price action was contained to start the week by the closure of US cash markets for Washington's Birthday. Bund futures lacked demand in the absence of any major catalysts and with light newsflow from the bloc. 10yr JGB futures were marginally higher following disappointing preliminary GDP data for Q4, but with gains limited after failing to sustain a brief reclaim of the 132.00 level. Commodities Crude futures were rangebound amid light energy-specific newsflow from over the weekend and after last Friday's indecisive performance, where attention was on a source report that noted OPEC+ is leaning towards resuming oil output hikes from April, but with no decision made. Slovak PM Fico said he has information that the Druzhba pipeline has been fixed after damage in Ukraine, although he believes that supplies to Hungary and Slovakia have become a part of political blackmail. Spot gold took a breather after edging higher in the aftermath of the recent softer-than-expected US inflation data, with price action also contained by the holiday closures across Asia and North America. Copper futures were subdued, with their largest buyer away for more than a week due to the Chinese New Year/Spring Festival holiday. Texas venture-backed startup Hertha Metal vowed mass production of steel with 25% cost savings, which could reduce US reliance on imports. Geopolitics: Middle East US military is preparing for potential operations against Iran that could last for weeks if US President Trump orders an attack and the US fully expects Iran to retaliate, according to sources cited by Reuters. US President Trump told Israeli PM Netanyahu during a meeting in December that he would support Israel striking Iran’s ballistic missile program if the US and Iran are not able to reach a deal, according to CBS. Iran confirmed that indirect talks between the US and Iran will resume in Geneva on Tuesday under the mediation of Oman, while Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi left for Geneva on Sunday. Iranian diplomat said Iran is open to nuclear deal compromises if the US discusses lifting sanctions, while it was also reported that Iran said potential energy, mining and aircraft deals are on the table in talks with the US. Israel’s cabinet approved the proposal to register West Bank lands as ‘state property’, while Palestinians condemned the ‘de facto annexation’ which Peace Now said likely amounts to a ‘mega land grab’. Geopolitics: Ukraine US President Trump said on Friday that Ukrainian President Zelensky is going to have to get moving and that Russia wants to get a deal. US Secretary of State Rubio said they don’t know if Russia is serious about finding an end to the war in Ukraine and will continue to test it, while it was reported that he met with Ukrainian President Zelensky on security and deepening defence and economic partnerships. Ukrainian drones targeted Russia’s Taman seaport and fuel tanks in the Black Sea region. UK and European allies were reported on Friday to be weighing seizing Russian shadow fleet ships and tightening curbs on Russia's economy. French Foreign Minister Barrot said some G7 nations have expressed a willingness to proceed with a maritime services ban on Russian oil, which they hope to include in the 20th sanctions package that they are actively preparing. Geopolitics: Other European Commission President von der Leyen said that they face the very distinct threat of outside forces trying to weaken their union, while she added that mutual defence is not an optional task for the European Union; it is an obligation within their own treaty, and it is their collective commitment to stand by each other in case of aggression. Pentagon said the US military struck an alleged drug cartel boat in the Caribbean, which killed three people. DB's Jim Reid concludes the overnigt wrap I hope you all had a good weekend. To stay in Winter Olympics mood the family watched "Cool Runnings" last night. I haven't seen it for 32 years. Please don't tell anyone but I had a few tears in my eyes at the end. I blamed it on the hay fever that has now started. There will be a lot of tears out there in markets for other reasons at the moment. Just two weeks ago, the idea of AI-driven disruption still felt like an abstract, almost academic thought experiment—something we could safely revisit once we had clearer evidence of how AI would be deployed and integrated across the economy. Fast forward 14 days, and markets have wiped out well over a trillion dollars of global equity value on the fear that AI could fundamentally reshape business models and compress profitability across a wide range of industries, including software, legal services, IT consulting, wealth management, logistics, insurance, real estate brokerage and commercial real estate. Some of the sell off in “old economy” sectors feels overdone to me. But as I argued in our 2026 World Outlook back in November, the real challenge is that even by the end of this year we still won’t have enough evidence to identify the structural winners and losers with confidence. That leaves plenty of room for investors’ imaginations—both optimistic and pessimistic—to run wild. As such big sentiment swings will continue to be the order of the day. My instinct is that the reaction in things like commercial real estate, for example, has been particularly exaggerated. Markets seem to be extrapolating a scenario in which vast numbers of white collar workers are made redundant almost overnight, leading to a dramatic collapse in office demand. If that view turns out to be correct, we’ll be facing societal challenges far larger than anything currently being priced into equities. While trying to catch a falling knife may be too risky for many, beginning to cushion the descent could be sensible in many old economy sectors. Markets can’t sustain a disruption narrative across multiple sectors for months or quarters without concrete evidence — and that evidence is likely to take much longer to emerge. Fascinating times. As for this week, today is a US holiday but inflation will remain in the spotlight at a global level after Friday's slightly softer US CPI which helped contribute to a decent rates rally to end the week. Prints are due in the US (PCE - Friday), the UK (Wednesday), Canada (Tuesday) and Japan (Friday). Other economic highlights will include the FOMC minutes (Wednesday), Q4 GDP in the US (Friday), as well as the global flash PMIs (Friday). Earnings reports will feature Walmart (Thursday), Nestlé (Thursday) and BHP (today). It's the earnings calm before next week's Nvidia storm. In the US, this holiday shortened week (President's Day today) features a data calendar dominated by releases that were pushed back by last year’s government shutdown. The most consequential updates will land on Friday, when the advance estimate of Q4 GDP arrives alongside December’s personal income and consumption figures—key inputs for shaping expectations for the early part of this year. For markets assessing the underlying pulse of demand heading into 2026, private final sales to domestic purchasers (PFDP) will carry more weight than the headline GDP print. This indicator—closely monitored by Fed Chair Powell—is expected by our economists to slow to 2.0% from 2.9% in Q3, though risks appear tilted upward. One swing factor: Wednesday’s durable goods report, where modest gains outside of transportation could soften the deceleration. On the consumer front, real PCE growth is expected to cool to 2.5% after two quarters of outsized strength but should still signal ample momentum heading into the new year. Friday’s income and spending report will also offer the latest reading on core PCE, the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge. Our economists expect another 0.4% monthly increase for December, lifting the year over year rate to 2.9%. Updated seasonal factors from last week’s CPI release suggest some mild downward pressure on inflation trends in the second half of 2025. Still, January’s CPI data, although softer than we anticipated, do not translate into equivalent relief for core PCE—in fact, our team currently sees another 0.4% gain for January's release (delayed until March 13th). Depending on the strength of medical services, airfare, and portfolio management components in the upcoming PPI report, a 0.5% monthly rise cannot be ruled out, which would push the year over year rate toward 3.1%. So don't get too excited about the softer CPI last week and the huge rates rally. Additional releases this week will help clarify whether recent severe winter weather has disrupted factory sector activity. January industrial production, due Wednesday, should benefit from a jump in utility output, while weather effects may weigh on the Empire State Survey tomorrow and the Philadelphia Fed survey on Thursday. Labor market data will also be in focus, particularly Thursday’s jobless claims, which line up with the survey week for the February employment report. As our economists have pointed out, private nonfarm job gains have averaged 103k over the past three months, slightly above the pace at this point in 2025 and matching the start of 2024. See their latest US employment chartbook here. This week will also feature a dense lineup of Federal Reserve speakers which you can see alongside all the key global data in the day-by-day week ahead calendar at the end as usual. Moving away from the US, inflation will also be in focus in Japan (Friday) and Canada (tomorrow). For the former, our Chief Japan Economist sees the January nationwide CPI showing a slowdown in both core CPI inflation ex. fresh food to 2.1% YoY (+2.4% in December) and core-core CPI inflation ex. fresh food and energy to 2.7% (+2.9%). Also important will be the global flash PMIs due on Friday as a health check on global growth. In Europe, the spotlight will be on UK inflation (Wednesday), with labour market data due tomorrow and retail sales on Friday. Our UK economist expects headline CPI inflation to drop to 3.0% YoY (3.4% in December) and core CPI also landing at 3.0% YoY (3.2% YoY). See more in his full preview here. In terms of key rate decisions, the RBNZ are expected to remain on hold on Wednesday. Finally, the Munich Security Conference wrapped up over the weekend, where key topics included Ukraine, Russia, and the fate of Greenland. And while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s speech was nothing like Vice President JD Vance’s at last year’s conference, which triggered a “wake-up” call for European leaders, Rubio reiterated the administration’s view that Europe needed to leave behind its focus on energy policies, trade and mass migration. Recapping last week now, the tech volatility that has dogged markets since the start of the month broadened into a far more indiscriminate sell-off. The trough came on Thursday, marked by a sharp drop in software stocks, but the weakness extended well beyond tech. Companies across wealth management, real estate and financials suffered double digit declines, underscoring how widespread the pullback has become. Market breadth confirmed this shift as the equal weighted S&P 500 fell -1.37% on Thursday, though it managed to finish the week up +0.29% (+1.04% on Friday). Ultimately, the sell-off left the major US indices on the back foot: the S&P 500 slipped -1.39% (+0.05% on Friday), the Nasdaq lost -2.10% (-0.22% on Friday), and the Magnificent 7 slid -3.24% (-1.11% on Friday). Although the AI scare dominated sentiment, a heavy slate of US data also shaped the market narrative. Early in the week, softer prints—including flat December retail sales, a dovish Q4 Employment Cost Index, and slower Q4 growth expectations from the Atlanta Fed—pushed Treasury yields lower across the curve. That picture shifted midweek after a stronger than expected January jobs report, which delivered the largest gain in nonfarm payrolls (+130k vs. +65k expected) since December 2024 and reinforced confidence that the US economy carried solid momentum into 2026. Then on Friday, January CPI came in below expectations, adding another dovish note. Although the data offered mixed signals at times, the overall takeaway was sufficiently dovish for traders to increase the number of expected rate cuts by December 2026 to 63.4bps (+7.7bps on the week). This helped drive the largest weekly drop in the 10 year Treasury yield since August 2025, down -15.8bps (-5.0bps on Friday) to 4.05%. The 2 year yield also moved sharply lower, falling -8.9bps to 3.41% (-4.8bps on Friday), its lowest level since 2022. European markets, meanwhile, delivered a comparatively resilient performance. The STOXX 600 (+0.09%, -0.13% Friday), DAX (+0.78%, +0.25% Friday) and FTSE 100 (+0.74%, +0.42% Friday) all posted modest gains for the week. European sovereign bonds rallied as well, with the 10 year bund yield dropping -8.7bps—its steepest weekly decline since April 2025. That move was outpaced by gilts, which fell -9.8bps (-3.6bps on Friday) despite a sharp early week sell-off triggered by renewed questions surrounding Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s position. Elsewhere, performance was mixed. Brent crude edged down -0.44% (+0.34% on Friday), while gold extended its upward run, rising +1.56% (+2.43% on Friday). Will London’s half term week finally give us a quiet week in 2026? You’d probably have to guess at ‘unlikely’. Tyler Durden Mon, 02/16/2026 - 09:40

China has strongly criticized new US technology curbs, labeling them as 'bullying' tactics that target Chinese firms and products. Despite Beijing's condemnation, Chinese optical-module stocks have rebounded as analysts downplay the impact of the proposed US restrictions.

Chinese companies are preparing their largest wave of share buybacks since the trade war to counter a stock selloff and boost investor confidence.

Angola has signed port deals worth $900 million with various Chinese firms, signaling significant investment in its maritime infrastructure.

A US official has confirmed that Nvidia has started shipping its powerful H200 AI chips to China, with telecoms gear maker ZTE Corp and two other Chinese firms receiving US approval for these advanced chips.

OpenAI and Google are reportedly selling their AI models to Chinese technology giants that are on the Pentagon's blacklist, with services provided through Singapore-based subsidiaries.

Subdivisions of Chinese tech giants Alibaba, Baidu, and Tencent reportedly gained access to advanced artificial intelligence technology from American companies OpenAI and Google in Singapore, despite being on a blacklist.

China is now allowing its domestic AI companies to purchase Nvidia H200 chips, a move that could be a game-changer for the country's AI development. This decision marks a significant shift in policy regarding advanced chip access for Chinese firms.

The US Federal Communications Commission denied approval for California-based Digitalsystem Technology to provide telecoms services, citing national security risks due to its links to Chinese firms and ownership by a Chinese national.

A new study reveals that Chinese firms not only operate, finance, or hold stakes in about a third of African ports but also control the software, automation, and AI tools that run this critical infrastructure, extending Beijing's reach beyond physical assets.

Chinese industry insiders have warned that a reported US plan to ban foreign-made inverters, likely aimed at reducing reliance on China, would be difficult to implement and detrimental to the local power industry.

The Prime Minister of Bangladesh has extended an invitation to Chinese companies to participate in and contribute to the country's economic growth and development.

China Pacific Construction Group has signed an agreement to explore participation in Ho Chi Minh City's 200 km metro expansion project. This marks the second major Chinese company in two weeks to show interest in the system, which has primarily been built by Japan.

China has voiced opposition to a Pentagon move targeting several top Chinese firms, including Alibaba, Baidu, and Nio.

As Japanese and South Korean multilayer ceramic capacitor (MLCC) manufacturers shift focus to high-end AI server demand, Chinese firms are seizing opportunities in lower-end market segments.

The Pentagon's newly expanded blacklist of Chinese military-linked companies has tested the fragile stability reached at last month’s summit, highlighting persistent intense competition despite recent efforts to ease bilateral tensions and potentially affecting Xi's US visit.

Former Trump administration officials are reportedly concerned that a loophole in US policy may have allowed Chinese firms to acquire Nvidia Blackwell chips. This potential loophole raises questions about the effectiveness of current export controls on advanced technology.

Romania is interested in collaborating with Chinese partners on energy storage technologies, citing high energy prices in Europe as an opportunity.

Henan province is set to enhance its position as a strategic hub within China, with a particular focus on strengthening business relationships with Chinese firms operating in the Gulf region.

A Global Times editorial addresses the ongoing debate and accusations that Chinese firms' overseas infrastructure projects create a 'debt trap' for recipient nations.

Prime Minister Shehbaz met with top Chinese firms to enhance partnerships for CPEC Phase II, emphasizing the reduction of post-harvest losses and inviting companies to establish manufacturing and technology operations in Pakistan.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Sharif has extended an invitation to Chinese companies to expand their investments in the country's renewable energy and electric vehicle sectors.

Pakistan's Prime Minister has invited Chinese firms to relocate their industries to Pakistan under a 'win-win' partnership model, emphasizing the country's desire for expertise and investment rather than loans.

An inquiry commission has revealed that Chinese companies undertaking construction projects, including a canopy, were protected from the application of domestic regulations. This finding raises questions about oversight and accountability in these ventures.

China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) has called on the European Commission to rectify its 'wrong practices' regarding the EU's Foreign Subsidies Regulation against Chinese firms, vowing to protect national security and company interests.

The United States has reportedly approved the sale of Nvidia's advanced H200 chips to ten Chinese companies. This decision comes as Nvidia's CEO seeks breakthroughs in the Chinese market despite ongoing tech tensions.

Chinese companies are reportedly benefiting from the energy crisis triggered by the war in the Persian Gulf, while the European Commission plans to increase free CO2 emission allowances to support industry. The article also notes a decrease in alcohol consumption among Poles.

Beijing has reportedly instructed Chinese companies to ignore US sanctions targeting refiners, signaling a potential escalation in economic tensions and a challenge to American foreign policy.

China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) has issued a ban, instructing entities not to recognize, enforce, or comply with US sanctions imposed on five Chinese companies, escalating trade tensions.

China's securities regulator, CSRC, has reiterated its stance on US listing access for Chinese firms while also issuing its first penalty related to offshore filing regulations.

Following advancements in running and dancing robots, Chinese firms are now targeting the household chores market with new robotic solutions.

Artificial intelligence is boosting e-commerce revenues, while the US considers reintroducing tariffs, the EU targets Chinese firms circumventing duties, and Russia faces an economic slowdown.

Following a previous ban, the Zimbabwean government has now granted lithium export quotas to several Chinese firms.

Chinese companies are initiating a fresh wave of investment in Brazil, highlighted by the opening of Mixue's first store in the country.

Court disputes are casting a shadow over Sh1.3 trillion worth of contracts awarded to Chinese firms in Kenya, with conflicts arising over land, procurement, environmental compliance, and payment claims.

Chinese companies are actively seeking collaborative strategies to expand their operations globally and achieve international success.

China has increased its overseas lending cap, a move aimed at supporting Chinese firms in their global expansion efforts.

Tesla is reportedly in discussions with Chinese companies to purchase solar equipment valued at $2.9 billion, according to sources.

Google is reportedly exploring potential deals with Chinese companies, including Envicool, for liquid cooling equipment, indicating a focus on advanced data center infrastructure.

Chinese companies listed on the mainland are expected to outperform their offshore-listed peers in earnings, driven by successful overseas expansion and a commodity boom, with this outperformance becoming more pronounced since the outbreak of Middle East hostilities.

Indonesian firm Danantara is collaborating with Chinese companies to develop and implement waste-to-energy projects.

GT Voice: At MWC, Chinese firms show a viable path to share AI dividends Global Times

Rising tensions in the Middle East following attacks on Iran are having an impact on the trade corridors and investment plans of Chinese exporters and investors, who had seen Iran and the broader region as crucial growth markets. Joint strikes on Iran by the United States and Israel since Saturday have left shipments stalled, payments delayed and clients unreachable, Chinese businesspeople said. For many of them, the disruption has been direct and immediate. David Xie, an executive at a...

AI company Anthropic has accused Chinese firms of data theft, prompting questions about its own past data handling practices.

AI giant Anthropic accused Chinese firms of stealing data. Tesla CEO Elon Musk responded, claiming Anthropic itself steals data. He pointed to reports of Anthropic using copyrighted books and online d

A mysterious $436 million bet on a Hong Kong BlackRock ETF has sparked speculation about whether Chinese firms are secretly acquiring Bitcoin.