Latest Finance-Economy News
AI Trade Slumps After Broadcom and Oracle Earnings
Last week, Dow Jones rose 1.05%, S&P 500 fell 0.6%, and Nasdaq lost 1.6% as AI trade weakened post Broadcom and Oracle reports. Oracle reported ~US$10B quarterly cash burn and US$50B FY2026 capex, signaling hyperscale risks. An AI data-center REIT plunged after a tenant exit.
China Considers Record US$70 Billion Chip Incentive Program
Beijing eyes up to US$70B for semiconductors, the largest state-backed chip support, to counter US export controls. This elevates China's self-sufficiency push in tech amid restrictions on advanced chips. The program targets the industry's financing needs.
IMF Lifts China 2025 Growth Forecast to 5%
IMF raised China's 2025 GDP forecast to 5% from 4.8%, matched by World Bank, ADB, and OECD upgrades. China's Central Economic Work Conference prioritizes proactive policies, domestic demand, and new productive forces for 2026-2030. Reforms like unified markets and foreign investment eased access boosted multinationals.
Rich World's Rate-Cut Momentum Fading
Advanced economies' easing cycle loses steam as central banks assess growth and inflation impacts. Final 2025 policy decisions show limited fresh cuts, with momentum over. Brazilian economists upped 2025 GDP to 2.25% amid headwinds.
SpaceX Advances Toward 2026 IPO at Up to US$1.5 Trillion Valuation
SpaceX nears 2026 IPO with revenue projected at US$15B in 2025, rising to US$22-24B in 2026, driven by Starlink. EchoStar shares rose 12% on spectrum deal; Rocket Lab gained 4.3%. This revives US$2.9T in listings potential.
Microsoft Commits US$7.5 Billion to AI Data Centers in Canada
Microsoft pledges US$7.5B for AI data center expansion, promising to protect Canada’s digital sovereignty. This highlights ongoing hyperscale investments despite AI sector pressures. The move supports regional tech infrastructure.
Federal Reserve Cuts Rates Amid Internal Divisions
The Fed implemented its third consecutive rate cut, but policymaker fractures were evident. This reflects cautious easing in the US economy. Divisions signal uncertainty on future path.
Upcoming NFPs, CPI, BOE, and BOJ Rate Decisions
Key data releases include US NFPs and CPI, plus BOE and BOJ rate changes in the last full trading week of 2025. These will influence global market directions. Investors eye impacts on monetary policy.
Australia Forecasts Stronger Business Investment in MYEFO
Australia's MYEFO projects business investment doubling to 3% in 2025-26 from 1.5%, steady at 1.5% in 2026-27. Non-mining investment supports growth outlook. Treasurer Jim Chalmers unveils smaller budget deficit.
Lao PDR Economy Resilient in 2025 Led by Services and Energy
Lao PDR's economic activity stayed strong, driven by services (1.8% contribution), energy, manufacturing, and agriculture. Resilience persists despite challenges. Projections highlight sector-led recovery.
WTO Report: AI as Essential to Global Economy and Trade
World Trade Report 2025 positions AI as a core economic foundation, shaping multilateral trading systems. It explores AI's role in future trade dynamics. Insights guide policy on tech integration.