CEO says she’d welcome an AI-bot board member: ‘If you don’t have an AI agent in every meeting, you’re missing out’

Former Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross has raised alarms about China's potential to weaponize its supply chain, particularly in the realm of rare earths. This concern highlights a significant economic threat, as these materials are crucial for various technologies and industries. The implications of such a move could disrupt global markets and supply chains, making it a critical issue for investors and policymakers alike.

At the Fortune Most Powerful Women Summit, SAIC CEO Toni Townes-Whitley highlighted the challenges posed by America's aging infrastructure in the context of modern warfare. She emphasized that today's conflicts extend beyond traditional battlefields, suggesting that adversaries can leverage their entire industrial base to gain an advantage. This perspective is crucial as it underscores the need for the U.S. to innovate and adapt its defense strategies to remain competitive.

The Fortune's Most Powerful Women Asia 2025 list highlights influential CFOs from major companies like Huawei, ByteDance, Sony, and Temasek. This recognition is significant as it showcases the impact of female leaders in shaping industries and driving innovation across Asia, inspiring future generations of women in business.

Fortune has opened nominations for its 2025 Next to Lead list, highlighting executives poised to influence the future of corporate America. This initiative is significant as it not only recognizes emerging leaders but also sets the stage for the next generation of business innovation and strategy.

Recent comments from several CEOs highlight that the ongoing immigration crackdown poses a greater threat to businesses than tariffs ever did. This shift in focus underscores the significant challenges companies face in hiring and retaining talent, which could ultimately impact economic growth. As businesses navigate these turbulent waters, the implications for the labor market and overall productivity are becoming increasingly concerning.

Arkeem Sturgis, a millennial father of six, has transformed his life from homelessness to establishing a successful trades business, highlighting the urgent need for a reskilling revolution in America. He emphasizes that many individuals desire hands-on work, pointing out the shortcomings in how the country prepares its youth for real-world challenges. His journey not only inspires hope but also serves as a blueprint for others seeking to improve their circumstances through practical skills.

In a recent conversation with Fortune, Ben Horowitz and Raghu Raghuram discussed the intersection of AI and politics, shedding light on complex issues that lack straightforward solutions. This dialogue is significant as it highlights the evolving landscape of technology and its implications for society, especially with Raghuram's transition from VMware to the venture capital firm a16z, indicating a shift in focus towards innovative tech solutions.

Rio Tinto has reported a significant increase in its Q3 shipments, driven by steady demand from China. This positive trend not only reflects the resilience of the mining sector but also boosts investor confidence, as evidenced by the rise in shares. The company's ability to adapt to market conditions and meet demand is crucial for its continued success and stability in the global market.

Japan's finance minister has emphasized the need for new policies to address the challenges posed by inflation in the post-Abenomics era. This shift is significant as it reflects the government's recognition of changing economic conditions and the necessity to adapt strategies to ensure economic stability and growth. As inflation impacts consumers and businesses alike, these proposed policies could play a crucial role in shaping Japan's economic landscape moving forward.

Iron ore prices have recently dropped from an eight-month high as concerns regarding potential supply issues due to new port fees in China have started to ease. This shift is significant as it reflects the ongoing fluctuations in the commodities market and highlights the impact of regulatory changes on global trade.

Google's recent announcement to invest $10 billion in a data center and AI project in India is a significant move that highlights the country's growing importance in the tech landscape. This investment not only promises to boost local economies and create jobs but also reinforces India's position as a global hub for technology and innovation. With AI being a key focus, this initiative could lead to advancements that benefit various sectors, making it a noteworthy development for both Google and India.

The recent resignation of First Brands' CEO comes amid serious concerns about the company's accounting practices and its subsequent bankruptcy, which has sent shockwaves through Wall Street. This situation not only highlights the challenges faced by the auto-part maker but also raises alarms about the stability of private credit markets, making it a significant event for investors and the industry as a whole.

Asian markets are showing signs of hesitation as investors remain cautious about the ongoing trade tensions between the US and China. This uncertainty is impacting market confidence and could lead to fluctuations in investment strategies. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as they not only affect the economies of these two major players but also have ripple effects on global trade.