Daily brief
China is advancing its AI and robotics sector with the release of a new chip that completes Alibaba's AI infrastructure and the opening of a Beijing platform to scale up humanoid robots. Multiple firms are racing to showcase these robots for potential home use at the upcoming Spring Festival Gala.
Panama's Supreme Court has ruled contracts granting a Hong Kong-based company control over Panama Canal ports unconstitutional, voiding CK Hutchison's agreements and removing it from operations.
AstraZeneca has announced a $15 billion investment in China through 2030 and struck a separate $4.7 billion deal with CSPC Pharmaceuticals to boost its weight-loss drug pipeline (ongoing coverage).
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated 'we can't ignore China' following criticism from President Donald Trump of the UK's trade push with Beijing.
Apple reported soaring earnings, driven by a surge in iPhone sales in China.