Mercuria ships LME aluminium from Malaysia to New Orleans

At the Bloomberg Business Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Sam Majid, the CEO of Malaysia's National AI Office, discussed the promising future of artificial intelligence in the ASEAN region. He highlighted the policies that are shaping AI's development, as well as the opportunities and risks that lie ahead. This conversation is crucial as it sheds light on how AI can drive innovation and economic growth in Southeast Asia, making it a key topic for businesses and policymakers alike.

A US lawmaker has reached out to the Trump administration, urging them to assist Malaysia in combating chip smuggling. This initiative is significant as it highlights the growing concern over illegal trade practices that undermine fair competition and national security. By addressing this issue, both countries can strengthen their economic ties and ensure a more secure technological landscape.

Donald Trump's recent tour of Asia has left many questioning the actual benefits for the countries involved. While he announced new trade deals with Malaysia, Japan, and South Korea, the lack of reciprocity from the US regarding tariff reductions has created uncertainty. This matters because it highlights the ongoing tensions in international trade and the challenges these nations face in securing fair agreements.

Jera Co., Japan's largest power generation company, is optimistic about expanding its liquefied natural gas (LNG) operations in Southeast Asia. With electricity demand on the rise in countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, Jera sees a significant opportunity to leverage LNG to meet this growing need. This move not only highlights the increasing importance of LNG in the region but also positions Jera as a key player in the energy market, potentially benefiting both Japan and its Southeast Asian partners.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's recent trade deal with the US is stirring controversy as lawmakers express concerns over clauses that could grant Washington the power to impose new tariffs and influence Malaysia's trade policies. This situation raises significant questions about national sovereignty and the implications of aligning too closely with US interests, making it a critical issue for Malaysia's economic future.

Malaysia's trade minister has confirmed that the country will continue its ban on raw rare earth exports, despite a recent deal with the U.S. This decision is significant as it reflects Malaysia's commitment to managing its natural resources sustainably while balancing international trade relations. The ban aims to encourage local processing and value addition, which could benefit the Malaysian economy in the long run.

Aaron Greenspan, a once-promising entrepreneur, has dedicated the last two decades to challenging some of the most influential figures in the tech industry, including Elon Musk. This relentless pursuit raises questions about the impact of individual voices in a landscape dominated by powerful moguls, highlighting the ongoing struggle between innovation and established authority.

In a significant ruling, US judges have determined that the Trump administration cannot suspend food aid benefits, ensuring continued support for millions of Americans in need. This decision is crucial as it protects vulnerable populations who rely on these benefits for their daily sustenance, highlighting the importance of food security in the country.

In its recent earnings call, BMW reported that it is maintaining its guidance for Q2 2025 despite facing challenges in the Chinese market. This is significant as it reflects the company's resilience and strategic planning in navigating potential obstacles. Investors and stakeholders will be keen to see how BMW adapts to these challenges while continuing to meet its financial targets.

Bel Fuse has announced quarterly dividends for its Class A and B shares, reflecting the company's strong financial performance and commitment to returning value to its shareholders. This move is significant as it not only rewards investors but also signals confidence in the company's future growth prospects.

Yapi ve Kredi Bankasi has reported impressive profit growth in its Q3 2025 earnings call, showcasing the bank's strong financial performance and resilience in a competitive market. This positive trend is significant as it reflects the bank's effective strategies and operational efficiency, which could inspire confidence among investors and stakeholders.

Tesla has teased the upcoming unveiling of a flying car prototype, sparking excitement in the tech and automotive communities. This development could revolutionize personal transportation, making it faster and more efficient. As Tesla continues to push the boundaries of innovation, this flying car could represent a significant leap forward in how we think about travel, potentially changing the landscape of urban mobility.