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Global Leaders Discuss Trust, Technology at ET NOW Global Business Summit 2026 Day 2
Day 2 of the ET NOW Global Business Summit 2026 focused on policy, technology, and urban transformation amid global disruption. Leaders highlighted India's digital revolution with 900 million broadband users, UPI, and 5G rollout aiming for 6G leadership.
Discussions emphasized Ease of Doing Business 3.0 and AI's role in sectors like healthcare and agriculture, stressing human-centric innovation.
AI Demand Fuels Rampant Memory Chip Shortage Crisis
Tech leaders like Tim Cook and Elon Musk warn of a global memory chip crisis driven by AI data center buildouts from Alphabet and OpenAI. The shortage is impacting profits and raising prices, with production increasingly allocated to AI needs.
Industry voices call for urgent action to avert broader economic fallout.
Singapore Key Exports Surge 9.3% in January on Electronics
Singapore's exports rose 9.3% in January, primarily fueled by electronics shipments amid regional demand. This growth supports economic optimism despite global pressures.
Analysts remain upbeat on related sectors like the new space agency.
Malaysian Economy Forecast to Grow 4-4.5% This Year
Bank Negara predicts Malaysia's economy will expand between 4% and 4.5%, driven by stronger spending, exports, and a firmer ringgit. This outlook reflects resilience in Southeast Asia's fast-growing markets.
Crowds protest anti-graft issues, but business focus remains on growth.
Indonesian Nickel Giant Vale Expands into Battery-Grade Nickel
Vale Indonesia pushes deeper into battery-grade nickel production despite rising popularity of iron-based batteries. This move aligns with global EV supply chain demands.
Meanwhile, Prabowo expresses fury over market rout, signaling internal divisions.
Singapore Retailers Face Squeeze from Chinese Brands
Singapore retailers report pressure from aggressive Chinese brand expansions, impacting local competition. This trend challenges traditional players in consumer markets.
Broader ASEAN dynamics include Johor data center power bottlenecks.
UK Minimum Wage Hike Raises Youth Unemployment Concerns
Bank of England official states the UK minimum wage increase is contributing to higher youth unemployment rates. This policy sparks debate on labor market impacts.
Relatedly, a family battles to retain control of a 157-year-old Japanese firm.
Modi’s India Rooftop Solar Push Hindered by Lenders and States
India's ambitious rooftop solar initiative under Modi faces delays from reluctant lenders and state-level hurdles. Progress is slowed despite national goals for renewable energy.
This ties into broader summit talks on infrastructure transformation.
STI Breaches 5,000 Amid Bullish Market Sentiment
Singapore's Straits Times Index surpasses 5,000, prompting optimism for further gains and market reforms. Positive reactions open doors to enhanced growth capital sectors.
This reflects regional market resilience amid global volatility.
Thailand Grapples with Floods, Quakes, and Deeper Economic Challenges
Thailand faces floods and earthquakes, but underlying structural issues hinder recovery and growth. Southeast Asian governments explore AI applications in tourism for boosts.
Kopi Kenangan achieves profitability after early funding pitfalls.
Calgary Firms Secure More Non-US Trade Deals Amid Uncertainty
Calgary companies increased international trade deals outside the US in 2025, dropping US share from 35% due to uncertainties. This diversification strategy counters tariff threats and trade tensions.
US senators affirm support for CUSMA despite challenges.
US Inflation Cools to 2.4% on Lower Gas and Housing Costs
US inflation dropped to 2.4%, aided by cooling gasoline and housing expenses. This trend influences Fed policy expectations amid global economic shifts.
Housing market risks recession in 2026 from subdued demand.