Japan scraps US meeting after Washington demands more defence spending

Despite being hit by US sanctions in 2019, Huawei pushed forward with its ambitious AI chip development, unveiling the Ascend 910—a processor it claimed was the world’s most powerful for AI training. But the US tightened restrictions in 2020, blocking semiconductor sales and throwing a wrench into Huawei’s plans. Now, the company’s ability to keep advancing its silicon strategy is a test of China’s broader tech resilience and AI ambitions.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about Huawei—it’s a high-stakes showdown over who controls critical tech like AI and semiconductors. If Huawei can keep innovating despite sanctions, it signals China’s growing ability to sidestep US pressure, reshaping the global tech race. If it stumbles, it could slow China’s AI ambitions and reinforce US dominance in cutting-edge chips. Either way, the ripple effects will be huge.

India’s stock market watchdog, Sebi, is stepping up its game by drafting rules to govern how AI and machine learning are used in trading. The proposed guidelines include a five-point plan covering everything from keeping algorithms in check to protecting investor data and privacy. Essentially, they’re trying to make sure tech doesn’t run wild while still letting innovation thrive on Dalal Street.

Editor’s Note: AI is transforming finance globally, and India’s market is no exception. Sebi’s move signals they’re serious about balancing cutting-edge tech with safeguards—preventing market manipulation, data breaches, or unfair advantages. For investors, it’s a heads-up that the rules of the game are evolving, and for fintech firms, it’s time to prep for tighter oversight.

Indian stock markets had a big day on Friday, with the Sensex rocketing up by 1,046 points—thanks largely to foreign investors piling money into the market. The Nifty joined the party too, closing above the 25,000 mark. While foreign funds were buying, domestic investors were selling, but the overall surge added nearly Rs 5 lakh crore to investor wealth.

Editor’s Note: This rally might feel like a breath of fresh air for investors after recent market jitters, but it’s worth watching whether this is just a short-term boost or the start of a steadier recovery. Foreign money can be fickle, so the real question is whether this momentum holds or fizzles out. Either way, it’s a big win for portfolios—at least for now.

Campus Fund, a venture capital firm focused on backing startups founded by students and college dropouts, just rolled out its biggest fund to date—a whopping $100 million. They’ve already secured over half the money and started writing checks. With a team of student scouts helping spot promising ideas, they aim to fund around 60 young companies in the next four years.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another VC fund—it’s a bet on the next generation of founders who are still in (or just left) school. For student entrepreneurs, it’s a huge vote of confidence and a rare shot at serious funding early in their journey. And for the startup ecosystem, it means fresh ideas and energy could get the fuel they need to take off. Win-win.

The Indian finance ministry just revealed that disclosures of foreign assets and income shot up by 45% this fiscal year, with over 230,000 taxpayers reporting holdings abroad. This comes amid some eyebrow-raising reports about rising Indian deposits in Swiss banks—though the ministry was quick to point out those numbers include corporate and institutional money, not just individuals. Tax authorities are now combing through the filings to verify everything.

Editor’s Note: On the surface, this looks like a win for transparency—more people are fessing up about offshore assets, likely due to tighter enforcement. But the Swiss bank tidbit adds a layer of intrigue. Are wealthy Indians parking more money overseas, or is this just better reporting? Either way, it signals that tax authorities are watching closely, which could mean fewer shady loopholes (or at least more paperwork) for anyone playing fast and loose with foreign accounts.