Daily brief
Google is expanding its high-end smartphone manufacturing to Vietnam, marking a significant supply chain shift. In a separate major deal, Apple has reportedly chosen Google's Gemini AI to power some of its upcoming AI features, such as enhancing Siri, without branding it as Google. The partnership is seen as a setback for OpenAI, which was also competing for the contract.
The US has conditionally approved the sale of Nvidia's advanced H200 AI chips to China with strict security restrictions, a decision linked to the Trump administration. Meanwhile, Chinese customs officials have reportedly indicated these chips are not permitted for entry, creating market uncertainty.
Central bank leaders from New Zealand and Japan are facing criticism for expressing solidarity with US Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, highlighting tensions over central bank coordination versus national interests (ongoing coverage).
The European Union has raised concerns about Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service, particularly regarding its control over satellite frequencies, while the service has reportedly provided free internet in Iran during blackouts.
China's trade surplus surged by 20% to a historic $1.2 trillion, reaching a new record despite tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump.