Latest Business News
U.S. issues executive order preempting state AI rules
President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to prevent states from enacting conflicting AI regulations and instructing the attorney general to challenge state laws that could withhold federal funding over AI policy disputes.
AkzoNobel to merge with Axalta in $25 billion paint industry deal
AkzoNobel and Axalta announced a merger to create an estimated $25 billion paint and coatings company, with AkzoNobel shareholders receiving a special dividend as part of the transaction terms.
Hyundai pledges $85.8 billion investment in South Korea over five years
Hyundai Motor Group announced a record $85.8 billion investment plan focused on AI, robotics and electric vehicles to strengthen South Korea’s technology base and boost vehicle exports.
Xiaomi posts strong profit jump driven by EV sales
Xiaomi reported an 80.9% jump in quarterly profit, attributing the gain largely to growth in its electric vehicle business and other new initiatives across the group.
EU energy affordability and efficiency remain a top concern after gas price shifts
European officials are highlighting rising energy vulnerability and stressing the need for efficiency measures and market integration after volatility in gas and electricity retail prices following geopolitical disruptions.
U.S. jobless claims tick up amid fiscal and policy uncertainty
U.S. continued jobless claims rose to 1.957 million for the referenced week, reflecting lingering labor-market frictions amid political and economic uncertainty.
Big tech and AI race fuel geopolitical and regulatory tensions
U.S. administration statements and policy actions are framing an industrial strategy to accelerate AI approvals and maintain competitiveness with China, while urging unified federal rules to avoid a patchwork that could hinder innovation.
Market reaction: commodities and currencies respond to policy shifts
Global commodity and currency markets are reacting to policy announcements and risk sentiment, with energy and metals especially sensitive to geopolitical and macroeconomic developments noted in European coverage.
Corporate cost moves and restructuring continue across sectors
Firms across technology, automotive and traditional manufacturing sectors are announcing investments and restructurings—combining heavy capex plans (e.g., Hyundai) with efficiency drives—to navigate rapid technological change and margin pressures.
Investor focus on cross-border deals and national industrial strategy
Recent M&A activity (large mergers like AkzoNobel–Axalta) and national investment pledges (Hyundai’s plan) underscore investor interest in scale and industrial policy alignment as countries compete to secure strategic industries.