US-Taiwan Trade Deal: Semiconductor Chains and Tariff Reductions
Taiwan and the US agree to cut tariffs on exports while negotiating the relocation of semiconductor supply chains amid rising geopolitical tensions and surging AI-driven chip demand.
EU-Turkey: Trade, Security, & Membership Challenges Amid Geopolitical Shifts
EU-Turkey trade hit EUR210B in 2024, yet EU membership talks remain stalled due to Turkey's democratic backsliding and Hamas support. Security cooperation, especially concerning drones and Russian threats, intensifies, driven by EU's strategic interests and Turkey's crucial location. The relationship remains largely transactional.
Startup Fraud: ‘Fake It Till You Make It’ Culture, Elizabeth Holmes & Forbes 30 Under 30
A Boston College report highlights the need for fraud prevention in private businesses. The 'fake it till you make it' culture fosters white-collar crimes in startups, exemplified by Elizabeth Holmes. Forbes' 30 Under 30 list has seen honorees embroiled in financial fraud scandals.
Trump Admin Boosts Humanitarian Aid to Cuba Amid Crisis & Typhoon Melissa
The Trump administration is increasing humanitarian aid to Cuba by $6 million via the Catholic Church and Caritas due to a crisis exacerbated by Typhoon Melissa and stopped Venezuelan oil shipments. Cuban President Díaz-Canel expresses willingness for dialogue with the U.S. without pressure.
Waymo Secures $16 Billion Funding, Achieves $126B Valuation & Plans Global Expansion
Waymo raised $16B in funding, valuing the robotaxi leader at $126B, signaling strong investor confidence in autonomous vehicle services. The company plans to expand its fleet and operations into over 20 new global cities by 2026.
EU-India “Mother of All Trade Deals” Finalized: Tariffs Cut, Economic Ties Boosted
The EU & India finalized a major FTA, reducing tariffs on over 96% of goods. This "mother of all trade deals" links 2B consumers, potentially boosting EU exports by 6.4% & supporting de-risking from China, despite US tensions.
Super Bowl 60 Ad Prediction Markets Spark Insider Trading Concerns
Prediction markets like Kalshi & Polymarket now offer contracts on Super Bowl 60 ads, raising insider trading concerns. Employees privy to ad plans could leverage info, posing regulatory challenges in this new online trading frontier.