Latest Business News
Trump Tariffs Push Canada to Cut EV Taxes on China
Canada slashed its 100% tariff on Chinese electric vehicles to secure lower Chinese tariffs on its farm exports like canola seeds, from 84% to 15%. This realignment signals allies hedging against US unpredictability, with PM Mark Carney praising China's EV strengths amid Trump's fossil fuel focus.
Experts call it a major shift complicating USMCA renewal talks.
EU Signs Historic Trade Deal with Mercosur Bloc
The EU and Mercosur (Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Bolivia) finalized a trade pact after 25 years, prioritizing fair trade over isolation. This move accelerates as nations reduce US market dependence amid Trump's tariffs.
EU leaders hailed it as a deliberate choice for long-term partnerships.
Trump Imposes 10-25% Tariffs on European Nations Over Greenland
US President Trump announced 10% tariffs rising to 25% on Denmark and other European countries until they cede Greenland, citing national security. This targets NATO allies and escalates trade tensions, with a Danish general affirming NATO unity.
Analysts question the $1 trillion acquisition's business value compared to historical deals.
Silicon Valley Rattled by Proposed California Billionaires' Tax
A healthcare union pushes a 5% one-time tax on billionaires' assets for California's November ballot, prompting asset shifts to Florida by figures like Google execs. Tech giants like Google have not commented on relocation impacts.
This adds to fiscal pressures on the wealthy amid economic shifts.
Delta Electronics Hits Record Revenue on AI Server Demand
Delta reported Q4 revenue of NT$161.61 billion, up 41.51% year-on-year, driven by AI data center power supplies comprising 50% of server PSU sales. Annual revenue rose 31.76% to NT$554.89 billion, with optimism for continued growth.
Demand for liquid-cooling products fuels the surge.
8-Inch Wafer Prices to Rise Up to 20% Amid Supply Cuts
TSMC and Samsung are phasing out 8-inch wafer production, tightening global capacity by 0.3% last year and prompting a first major price hike since 2023. TrendForce forecasts up to 20% increases due to constraints.
This affects chipmakers reliant on older tech amid semiconductor shifts.
Trump Hits Eight NATO Allies with New Tariffs
Trump announced tariffs on eight NATO allies and 25% duties on Iran-trading nations, reviving 'Tariff King' fears on Wall Street. This follows earlier steel and auto levies, disrupting corporate trade plans.
Markets react as allies seek alternatives.
Elon Musk Seeks $79-134 Billion in OpenAI-Microsoft Lawsuit
Musk demands $79-134 billion in damages from OpenAI and Microsoft, alleging fraud over his co-founding role. The battle intensifies AI governance disputes.
This highlights escalating legal stakes in Big Tech AI rivalries.
AI Reshapes Big Tech Pay, Prioritizing Individual Contributors
Meta, Google, Amazon, and Nvidia adjust compensation to favor standout AI engineers over managers, fueling a 'superstar economy'. Proxy advisors and investors integrate AI into shareholder voting.
Boards must rethink governance amid these shifts.
Trumpurffers $1 Billion for Nations on His Peace Board
Trump proposes nations pay $1 billion to join his 'peace board', amid broader tariff escalations. This unconventional demand adds to global business uncertainty.
It coincides with his first-year mixed impact on US industries.
World Bank Notes Global Economy's Unexpected Resilience
The World Bank's Global Economic Prospects highlights resilience despite trade tensions and tariffs. Growth holds steadier than anticipated amid realignments.
This provides a backdrop to ongoing Trump policy disruptions.