Copper Crisis: How AI Data Centers & EVs Are Driving Prices Sky-High Fi5 2024-04-25 | Copper prices are near five-year highs, at over $9800 a ton, with Citi forecasting copper could enter its second secular bull market of the century, driven by decarbonization and related demand growth. With ongoing supply deficits, these experts predict prices could climb to $12,000 per ton in the near future. Demand from the energy transition, rapid Ai data centre expansion and a lack of new mine projects are all contributing to what bank of America is now referring to as a copper supply crisis.
NVIDIA CEO: Nuclear Vital for AI | Microsoft to Restart Three Mile Island Fi5 2024-10-06 | Nvidia’s CEO has stressed the necessity of nuclear power for the future of Artificial intelligence, adding yet another voice to growing chorus highlighting the need for nuclear investment. Speaking at an event on the future of AI and Energy, Jensen Huang said that while ‘no one energy source will be sufficient for the world’, “nuclear is going to be a vital, integral part of this” Ai future.
Global Tariff Wars: Chinas Export Crisis Escalates Fi5 2024-09-24 | The US has approved significant new tariffs on Chinese goods, including solar cells, steel, batteries and the much discussed 100% tariff on Chinese Evs. A 50% duty on semiconductors is also set to start in 2025. In response, China has accused the US of unilateralism and protectionism, but the growing number of countries now imposing tariff’s on Chinese goods suggests a more complicated picture than a US-China standoff.
Toyota Slashes EV Plans: Is the Electric Future Slowing Down? Fi5 2024-09-12 | Toyota has become the latest car manufacturer to slash its EV production plans, joining Ford, GM, and others as the reality of slowing adoption begins to bite. Initially estimating production of 1.5 million electric vehicles a year from 2026, Toyota has cut numbers by a 1/3 to one million, due to the cooling of the global EV market.Reflecting consumer reluctance to make the switch from Internal combustion engines, this slower uptake is being reflected across the sector, with planned cuts in future EV production across the board, as well as the rollback of commitments from major manufacturers to go all electric by the end of the decade.Footage from Toyota Manufacturing
Decoupling: China warns of severe economic retaliation as Japan considers new chip restrictions Fi5 2024-09-07 | China has threatened Japan with severe economic retaliation if the country goes ahead with new restrictions limiting the sale of chipmaking and servicing equipment. Part of the ongoing technological cold war between China and the US, Japan (along with the Netherlands) has come under increasing pressure to restrict china’s access to chip making technology after Washington banned the export of its most advanced chips to China in 2022. But while top their Ai chips could no longer be exported, China has still largely been able to purchase chip making equipment from major semiconductor players, Japan and the Netherlands. This latest spat represents Washington’s efforts to finally close off gaps in current restrictions, and China’s forceful response suggests Washington may finally be targeting as area with a significant impact.
Red Sea Tanker Attack: Houthis Trigger Massive Oil Spill Risk Fi5 2024-08-31 | The Red Sea could be on the brink of an environmental disaster following an attack on a Suezmax oil tanker Sounion by Yemen based Houthis. The Greek owned ship, targeted last Wednesday has been burning since Houthi terrorists detonated explosives on board, and the ship now appears to be leaking oil, according to a pentagon spokesperson.With the vessel carrying 150,000 tonnes of oil, this has the potential to become one of the largest oil spills in history, and one of the worst and most unnecessary environmental tragedies - made all the more absurd by the fact that a spill would decimate Yemen’s own fishing industry.
Nuclear’s Big Surprise: How Private Industry is Driving an Unprecedented Energy Shift Fi5 2024-08-25 | Private industry across the globe is increasing looking to nuclear when it comes to powering their future operations. Amazon grabbed headlines just weeks ago with the news it was essentially buying part of a nuclear plant to power its Ai data centre next door. And the rest of big tech is following suit, with companies like Microsoft and founder Bill Gates heavily invested in a nuclear future.
China Tightens Grip on Critical Minerals: Antimony Export Controls Escalate Global Tech Tensions Fi5 2024-08-21 | China is stepping up its control over critical minerals. Starting next month, Beijing will impose export controls on the rare metalloid antimony, citing national security concerns. Used in solar panels and batteries, but also finding application in military technology like missiles and nuclear weapons, this announcement is part of a larger series of restrictions on critical minerals produced in china. These restrictions are themselves part of the larger ongoing economic and geopolitical conflict between the US and China that have seen export restrictions from both countries and increasing diplomatic fallout.
US Eyes 50% Tariffs on Chinese Uranium Amid Surge in Low-Cost Imports and National Security Concerns Fi5 2024-08-15 | The US could be about to place 50% tariffs on Chinese enriched uranium following an unusual surge in imports from china towards the end of 2023, nearly all of which came in December and at prices substantially lower than other suppliers. This surge in Chinese supply comes against the backdrop of a US ban on imports of Russian uranium, leading to concerns china may be helping to circumvent the ban, as well as undermine US attempts to develop a robust domestic enriched uranium supply.
Antitrust Verdict: What the Ruling Means for Googles Search Monopoly Fi5 2024-08-09 | Big tech, along with the search engines we use every day could be in for an interesting shake-up following google’s loss in an antitrust case this week. “Google is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly,” concluded the judge in a written decision on Monday.Accused of engaging in illegal practices to maintain its monopoly over search engines google could face being broken up, or measures to prevent it paying to to be the default search engine on browsers and devices - impacting its dominance, and revenue. Google currently performs 90% of global internet searches, meaning the decision could have massive consequences both for Google, its competitors - like Microsoft, as well as the companies it pays to maintain this dominance - google paid Apple $20 billion in 2022 to remain the default search engine on its devices.
Germany’s Economy Contracts Again as Energy Costs Crush Industry Fi5 2024-08-02 | After a 2023 in which Germany found itself as the worlds worst performing major economy, 2024 is shaping up to be another bad year. Newly released data shows domestic engineering orders dropped 20% for June, while renewable subsidies are predicted to soar to 20 billion euros this year, as more and more industrial firms are considering relocating outside of Germany due to the high costs and unreliability of a broken energy system. While Euro area GDP grew in the second quarter, Germany’s economy contracted 0.1%, making its economic woes all the more obvious next to French and Spanish economies where conditions continue to improve
Houthi Inflation Threat: Rising Shipping Rates and Israel Strikes Yemen Port Fi5 2024-07-23 | Continuing attacks by Yemen’s Houthis in the Middle East are brining back the spectre of inflation, as the Iran backed groups escalating attacks on shipping push up the cost of sending goods around the world. But the impact is beginning to move beyond the increased fuel costs and delays caused by ships bypassing the Suez Canal in favour of the safer but longer trip around Africa, with shipping giant Maersk noting the knock on effect to the rest of the global shipping network, and new attacks on oil tankers and Israel threaten an escalation with far-reaching consequences.
China House Prices Continue to Fall as 40 Banks Disappear Fi5 2024-07-17 | The warning signs keep building for the Chinese economy with bad news for economic growth, and even worse news for housing prices. This comes on top of last week's report that 40 Chinese banks had disappeared in June.
Big Techs Scramble for Nuclear: Are We Running Out of Energy? Fi5 2024-07-04 | As big tech increasingly looks to nuclear power over other energy sources, concerns are emerging over shortages and rising costs as data centres look to secure access to the nuclear supply. Fuelled by the Ai boom, global data centre power demand is predicted to triple this year, doubling in the US by 2030. But as the recent energy crisis has shown, available energy production is limited, and carbon free energy even more so, with disruptions and distortions in the energy market leading both to shortages and skyrocketing costs for consumers and businesses. It’s in this context of anticipated rising demand and increasing costs that big tech is looking to secure its access now to the most reliable low carbon energy source, nuclear power - also leading to fears that big tech could monopolise power production, leading to shortages and increasing costs for households.
The AI War: US vs. China - The Battle for Semiconductor Dominance Fi5 2024-06-26 | The US continues to tighten its grip on the global semiconductor industry, and with it the future of artificial intelligence, pushing for new, tighter restrictions on China. This includes limiting investment, further export restrictions, and even preventing maintenance on existing chip making equipment currently used by china and purchased before these bans. Significantly, this push for further restrictions is said to extend to key producers of semiconductor equipment, Holland and Japan.0:00 US targets Chinese chip manufacturing0:18 Holland and Japan pressed to restrict semi exports to China1:03 ASML asked not to maintain Chinese equipment1:33 US Bans Ai Investment in China1:51 Why is US banning semiconductor exports to China?2:46 China to invest $64 billion in semiconductorsImages:- ASML footage and images, by ASML- Attack on Philippines, courtesy of Philippine Armed Forces
US on Nuclear Fast Track: Senate Votes to Cut Costs and Red Tape Fi5 2024-06-20 | Continuing the push for rapid nuclear expansion in the United States, the US Senate has passed a bill aimed at accelerating the build of new nuclear projects, focusing on reducing administrative delays and associated costs. Passing with an almost unanimous 88-2, the degree of bipartisan support marks the new levels of backing nuclear power now enjoys, with talk of shutting down nuclear plants turning into discussions of life-extensions and reopening in just a few short years.
Global Pushback on Chinas Car Industry: New Tariffs and Shifting Production Fi5 2024-06-13 | Pushback against china’s rapidly growing car industry continues to expand globally, with the EU announcing tariffs of up to 48% on Chinese EV’s. This follows turkey’s announcement of 40% tariffs on Chinese vehicles last week, and Volvo’s plans to shift production from China to Belgium - in anticipation of these increased tariffs from the European union. These announcements come a month after the US introduced 100% tariffs on Chinese EV’s, and highlight widespread concerns over what are claimed to be heavily subsidised Chinese vehicle exports that could damage domestic car manufacturers. These new tariffs could have further ramifications for the Chinese economy and the EU, particularly if these tariffs mark the beginning a wider trade war.
The Hidden Environmental Cost of Solar Projects in California Fi5 2024-06-04 | 4200 Joshua trees are set to be destroyed to make way for a green solar project in California, according to preservation non-profit basin and range watch. The trees are set to be destroyed to make way for the Aratina solar centre in California this June, with the project owners arguing the centre will help the survival of the Joshua Tree by fighting global warming.
White House Announces Historic Shift to Nuclear Power: Reopenings, Expansion, and Funding Fi5 2024-05-31 | The White House on Wednesday signaled a significant breakthrough for the role of nuclear power in the United States. As part of its effort to meet its climate goals, the Biden administration unveiled a series of measures to boost nuclear power production, indicating a long-term commitment to this once out of favour energy source.
Trade War Heats Up: Yellen Urges EU to Act Against China Fi5 2024-05-24 | Decoupling looks to be shifting up a gear after new announcements from the US, EU, and China suggest an intensification of the ongoing trade war. The US has introduced a 100% tariff on Chinese EVs, and all eyes are now on the EU, expected to follow suit when their investigation into Chinese state subsidies concludes in the coming weeks. This comes alongside increased pressure from Washington for Europe to harden its approach to Beijing. Strong hints from the EU have suggested strong evidence has been found of unfair state aid from Beijing, but while any tariffs imposed are expected to be below the 100% imposed by the US, this may still draw a response from China leading to further escalation.
Druckenmiller Bets on Copper After Selling Majority of Nvidia Stock Fi5 2024-05-21 | Famed investor Stanley Druckenmiller looks to be turning to copper after exiting the majority of his Nvidia position. First quarter regulatory filings show the sale of 72% of his NVIDIA stock, along with all NVIDIA call options. The big bet on Ai paid off handsomely with the stock soaring from $150 in 2022 to more than $900 dollars today.
Decoupling: U.S. Hits China with Major Tariffs Fi5 2024-05-15 | President Biden has announced substantial new tariffs on a range of Chinese imports. The most dramatic change? A whopping 100% tariff on Chinese electric vehicles, quadrupling the previous rate of 25%.But it doesn’t stop there. Tariffs on Chinese semiconductors and solar cells will double to 50%, and tariffs on steel and aluminium products will more than triple to 25%, up from 7.5% or less. In total, these measures will impact $18 billion worth of imports from China.
U.K. Invests $246m to Cut Reliance on Russian Nuclear Fuel with New HALEU Facility Fi5 2024-05-08 | The US and allies continue their push to break reliance on Russian nuclear fuel, with the latest announcement coming from the UK in the form of a $246 million investment in the development of High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium or HALEU in England. With the announcement coming just days after the US senate voted to ban imports of Russian uranium, the vital second part of this plan to reduce dependence on Russia now turns to the development of domestic facilities capable of making up any shortfalls.Images- Urenco storage, by IAEA CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 DEED- Urenco facility, by Urenco- Rosatom images, by Rosatom
Houthi Attacks in the Indian Ocean: A New Threat to Shipping and Inflation Fi5 2024-05-07 | Houthi forces have launched their first successful attack in the Indian Ocean, signalling a dangerous escalation that poses a further threat to international shipping, with far-reaching implications for global trade and the economy. As the Red Sea remains effectively sealed off to Western vessels due to ongoing Iran-backed attacks—which have already delayed shipments and surged fuel costs—the Houthis are now threatening to widen their campaign to the Mediterranean and Indian Ocean. Such actions could severely disrupt maritime traffic, potentially driving up inflation worldwide. This unfolding crisis holds not only economic repercussions but also profound political stakes, especially with the US on the brink of an election where inflation is a critical concern for voters.
US Bans Russian Uranium: Implications for Nuclear Energy and Uranium Markets Fi5 2024-05-01 | The much anticipated ban on the import of Russian enriched uranium passed in the senate on Tuesday with unanimous approval. The ban will bar US imports of Russian nuclear fuel 90 days after enactment, and saw US and Canadian uranium miners spike on the news. It also frees up the $2.7 billion in funding for US domestic uranium production. The measure aims to reduce reliance on foreign sources of vital materials, but there are concerns Russia could preemptively respond by cutting of supplies now, causing unanticipated disruption.Images- A photo of yellow cake uranium by Nuclear Regulatory Commission (CC BY 2.0)- Uranium Ore in Barrels 2 by IAEA Imagebank CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED- Uranium Ore in Barrels 2 by IAEA Imagebank CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED
Congress Greenlights Russian Asset Seizure: Impact on Ukraine, Gold, and the Dollar Fi5 2024-04-30 | After months of intense debate, President Biden has been granted unprecedented powers to seize Russian dollar assets—a decisive step to support Ukraine’s war effort. But while any actual transfer of assets to Ukraine will likely hinge on the agreement of G7 allies, the signing of this legislation alone is poised to send significant ripples through global finance. This move represents more than a mere political gesture or a financial boost for Ukraine; potentially heralding long-lasting impacts on the global financial system and the pivotal role of the dollar, something hinted at in recent months through the sustained gold purchases from central banks worldwide.
Will New SPR Release Take Oil Reserves Dangerously low? Fi5 2024-04-18 | As geopolitical tensions simmer and U.S. gas prices creep higher, the Biden administration grapples with tough decisions regarding the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, America's emergency oil stash, now at its lowest in four decades.Set up in 1975 after oil shortages caused by a Middle Eastern crisis, the SPR was meant to be a buffer against emergencies. Fast forward to today, the reserve has dwindled to a 40-year low after 200 million barrels were released in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Now, with tensions brewing again in the Middle East, the reserve's readiness is under scrutiny.
Breaking Point: U.S. Threatens Major Sanctions on China Over Russia-Ukraine Aid Fi5 2024-04-16 | Tensions are escalating as the United States confronts China over its support for Russia in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The U.S. has issued warnings against Chinese aid to Russia’s military efforts and threatened sanctions against Chinese banks, after recent disclosures suggest a deeper Chinese involvement than previously known.
Metals Volatility: New Russia Sanctions Drive Record Spike in Aluminium Price Fi5 2024-04-15 | Aluminium prices surged 9.4% on Monday following new US and UK sanctions on Russia. These measures, intended to deprive Moscow of funds in response to the war in ukraine, target sales on Russian aluminium, nickel and copper. Prices of all three critical metals spiked in response, with aluminium’s 9.4% rise marking the largest since the contract's inception in 1987. Nickel also rose by up to 8.8%, and copper increased by 1%, reaching a 22-month high.
Gold Prices Soar to Record Highs: Whats Behind the Surge? Fi5 2024-04-13 | Gold is continuing to set new records, pushing past $2400 per ounce today, marking a 20% increase since February. This rapid climb for the precious metal in 2024 has also seen western miners join the action, which until now had seen their share prices subdued due to the same inflation that has pushed up the price of gold, also pushing up their costs of production. But why is gold surging now, and how likely are these factors to continue to be in play?
Trade War: Gallium Price Doubles on China Export Restrictions Fi5 2024-04-08 | Prices of the vital metal gallium, used in 5g, smartphones, and semiconductors, have nearly doubled since china introduced export restrictions in August last year. While china has imposed a 25% tariff on sales to the US since 2017, last years export controls saw Chinese exports collapse, following the escalating tech war between china and the US.Images: Gallium by foobar CC BY-SA 3.0 DEEDGallium crystal by tmv23 and dblay CC BY-SA 3.0 DEEDGallium vacuum by Alshaer666 CC BY-SA 3.0 DEEDGallium led by Alexofdodd CC BY-SA 3.0 DEEDGallium 3d prints by Gallium alloy 3D prints CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED
Oil Goes Nuclear: Permian Producers Eye Small Reactors for Future Operations Fi5 2024-04-04 | As industry and government interest in nuclear power continues to grow, US oil companies are emerging as the latest major players to explore nuclear reactors for their future energy solutions. Seeking reliable electricity access while aiming to slash carbon emissions, the private sector seems to be unifying around a singular, sustainable solution.IMAGESFracking by James Wengler CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 DEEDCapstar Rig by Allan D. Hasty CC BY-SA 3.0 DEEDPermian devel by skytruth CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 DEED
Seizing Russian Assets: EU Plans €27 Billion Support Strategy for Ukraine Fi5 2024-04-01 | In a groundbreaking move, the European Union is set to redirect profits from the Russian Central Bank's assets, frozen within the bloc, to bolster Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict. This initiative aims to strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities and financial stability, but gives rise to a complex landscape of potential legal challenges and concerns about impacts on Western currencies and investment.
Baltimores Key Bridge Collapse: Unraveling the Economic Aftermath Fi5 2024-04-01 | Following the catastrophic collapse of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge due to a collision with a container ship, focus is shifting to the broader economic repercussions, with a significant impact expected on businesses and local communities, as well as supply chains. The bridge, vital for the daily transport of nearly 5,000 trucks carrying goods worth approximately $28 billion a year, and the resulting blockage to the Port of Baltimore, a key employment hub for over 14,000 individuals, highlights the seriousness of the situation. Washington's swift move to allocate $60 million in emergency aid underscores the critical nature of the aftermath, with the governor pointing to a 'very long road ahead' for recovery.0:00 Economic impact of Key bridge collapse1:00 Impact of Port of Baltimore Shutdown1:19 How long will the Port of Baltimore be closed?1:29 Local Business Impact1:53 Government aid for Baltimore 2:17 Key Bridge Impact on Supply ChainsImagesDowntown Baltimore by Fletcher6 CC BY-SA 3.0 DEED
US Targets Petrol Cars: 2032 Deadline for EV Shift and New Restrictions Fi5 2024-03-28 | The Biden administration has unveiled sweeping new measures to accelerate the United States' transition to electric vehicles, aiming for 50% of vehicle sales to be electric by 2030 and phasing out the majority of non-electric cars by 2032. However, as the government moves forward, major industry players and consumers are expressing caution, indicating a complex journey ahead.
U.S. Urges Ukraine to Halt Refinery Strikes Amid Rising Oil Prices Fi5 2024-03-27 | The United States has recently made headlines by urging Ukraine to stop its drone attacks on Russia's crucial energy infrastructure. Since Russia's invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has significantly improved its use of drones, targeting Russian oil refineries, terminals, and storage facilities. These actions have done more than just disrupt Russia's oil production; they've also contributed to a roughly 15% increase in global oil prices this year. This surge in prices has led to a noticeable rise in US gasoline prices, sparking concerns about inflation in Washington.
U.S. to Target Huawei with new Semiconductor Sanctions Fi5 2024-03-21 | The U.S. is reportedly considering sanctions on semiconductor firms affiliated with Huawei, in response to China's unexpected unveiling of a 7nm chip last year. The ongoing trade tensions, perceived by some as evolving into a new Cold War, have seen Washington impose restrictions on China's access to cutting-edge chips and technology. This move is part of what officials claim is an effort to curtail Beijing's progress in AI and prevent the potential military applications of advanced chips.0:00 New US sanctions on China0:43 US response to China's 7nm chip0:57 List of potential restrictions on Huawei1:25 AMD's New Ai chip blocked in China1:45 Risks of a new US/China trade war
Evergrande accused of record $78bn fraud as Chinese home prices continue rapid decline Fi5 2024-03-19 | Chinese property developer Evergrande has been accused of the country’s biggest fraud to date, after regulators determined the company had inflated profits by a staggering $78 billion dollars in the run up to its collapse. The news is yet another blow to a stumbling Chinese economy, heavily reliant upon its property sector, and joins February data showing a 9% YOY decline in property investment and a record 6.3% used-home price drop in major cities.0:00 Evergrande record $78 billion fraud1:43 Chinese property sales decline
Hertz CEO resigns after failed bet on EV’s, while Hybrid sales jump Fi5 2024-03-19 | Hertz has announced the resignation of its CEO, to be replaced in April, following difficulties around the company’s failed bet on electric vehicles. At one point announcing it would purchase 100,000 tesla’s in just a year, the company’s plans changed due to a lack of demand from customers, high levels of depreciation and significant repair costs. Instead, the company has now opted to sell 20K of it electric vehicles, part ways with its CEO and replace the EV’s with gasoline powered cars. 0:00 Hertz CEO resigns0:12 Hertz failed bet on EV's0:35 Electric Vehicle depreciation1:12 Slowing demand for EV's1:46 Hybrid demand jumps 50%ImagesHertz by Atomic Taco CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED
Beijing continues to discourages Apple products as iPhone sales drop 24% Fi5 2024-03-17 | iPhone sales in china dropped 24% in the first 6 weeks of the year as Beijing continues to discourage the use of western products. Justified in part over security concerns, the pushback against western tech is part of the wider economic battle between the US and china that has seen ever increasing restrictions on trade.
Rate cuts pushed back as U.S. inflation above expectations Fi5 2024-03-14 | Hopes that lower inflation could see rate cuts before summer have been dealt a blow, as US inflation came in above expectations for February. Consumer prices rose 0.4% from January due primarily to the increased costs of gasoline and shelter, and 3.2% from a year earlier, higher than economists expectations.
$2.7 billion boost for US Uranium, as nuclear set to hit record high in 2025 Fi5 2024-03-12 | The renaissance for Nuclear energy shows no sign of slowing down, with congress on Friday approving $2.7 billion to expand domestic uranium enrichment and secure the US’s nuclear fuel supply. Along with an ever growing list of planned new reactors around the world, and the International Energy Agency’s prediction that 2025 will see a record high in nuclear power generation, the approval marks the sharp reversal in attitude towards nuclear power from both governments and citizens in just the last few years. Image creditsUranium Ore in Barrels by IAEA Imagebank CC BY-SA 2.0 DEEDUranium Ore in Barrels 2 by IAEA Imagebank CC BY-SA 2.0 DEEDTightly Sealed Uranium Ore by IAEA Imagebank CC BY-SA 2.0 DEEDUranium roll front by James St. John CC BY 2.0 DEEDBavaria, Germany by Bavaria, Germany CC BY-SA 2.0 DEEDShin-Kori by IAEA Imagebank CC BY-SA 2.0 DEEDFukushima Reactor Site by Nuclear Regulatory Commission CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 DEED
Has TikTok shot itself in the foot? App gets children to call congress over possible ban Fi5 2024-03-10 | As US lawmakers consider legislation that would see TikTok banned in the US unless its Chinese owner Bytedance sells the app, TikTok itself may have just sealed its own fate, by doing the very thing legislators were cornered about - getting thousands of users, including children to call members of congress to protest the ban.
Decoupling: US/EU move closer to tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles Fi5 2024-03-07 | Geopolitical tensions between china and the west show no signs of abating, with the prospect of new tariffs and bans emerging this week. Among proposed bans on TikToc, restrictions on AMD’s newest Ai chip and Canada’s pushback on Chinese investment in mining, China is likely to be most concerned by the prospect of new tariffs on its growing electric vehicle exports. And while both the us and European union have expressed concerns in the past over the Chinese threat to their car industries, they now appear to be close to taking action.0:00 US China trade war moves to electric vehicles0:34 EU moves closer to tariffs on Chinese EV's1:16 EU evidence of Chinese EV subsidies1:51 US concerns: China exporting vehicles to US from MexicoImagesUSA-China by 李 季霖 CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED
Amazon buys nuclear powered data centre as AI energy demand grows Fi5 2024-03-06 | Amazon has become the latest tech company to turn to nuclear power, with the purchase of a $650 million nuclear powered datacenter in Pennsylvania. Following on from last years announcement that the company was investing in natural gas fuel cells to power some data centres, this latest purchase is yet another example of tech firms looking to secure their access to energy. It’s also the second recent signal of a growing commitment to nuclear power from big tech, with amazon following Microsoft, as some of the world’s most valuable companies now look to secure their ever growing energy needs. Needs which have been exacerbated by the power hungry demands of the nascent AI revolution, and concerns over the reliability of the existing grid and inconsistent government policy.0:00 Amazon buy nuclear powered data centre0:20 Big tech looks to nuclear to power data centres0:40 Talen Energy Cumulus campus bought by amazon1:15 Big tech's rising AI energy needs1:52 Billionaires invest in nuclear power2:00 Microsoft looks to small modular reactorsImages- Talen and Cumulus campus by Talen Energy- Microsoft server images courtesy of Microsoft- Susquehanna Steam Electric Station by Jakec CC BY-SA 4.0 DEED- Elon Musk by Ted, CC BY-NC 2.0 DEED
Inflation hits U.S. consumer as debt and delinquencies rise Fi5 2024-03-04 | As the S&P hit an all time closing high of 5,137 to end the week, and NVIDIA edged over a 2 trillion valuation, signs of a disconnect between markets and the consumer are beginning to emerge. This appears to have come in the form of inflationary pressures impacting household spending and debt levels, with credit card delinquencies rising to 8.5% and consumer sentiment plunging the most since march 2020.Images - federal reserve new york by Daniel Foster CC BY-NC 2.0 DEED- Fed New York west by Beyond My Ken CC BY-SA 4.0 DEED
Car manufacturers turn away from EV’s as demand expectations slump Fi5 2024-03-01 | The past week saw Mercedes abandon its plan to go all electric by 2030 and Apple announce the cancellation of its own much anticipated electric vehicle. This follows ford’s decision in January to cut production of its F-150 lighting by half, Audi’s plans to pull back on its electric vehicle roll out, and numerous other major manufacturers either cutting EV production or delaying further investment.IMAGESApple car by sanshow CC BY 3.0 DEED
Chinese stocks bounce, but is the recovery real? Fi5 2024-02-27 | Chinese stocks have rallied strongly in February, giving investors some breathing room after the sharp declines of January that marked a more than $6 trillion loss for Chinese and Hong Kong shares since 2021. But despite this reversal, the degree of intervention from Beijing required to prop up the market may raise deeper concerns over the state of the Chinese economy. 0:00 Chinese stocks recover in January0:18 Beijing's intervention to support stocks0:43 Large Chinese ETF purchases from state funds1:20 New efforts to prop up Chinese housing market1:45 Is the Chinese market recovery real?
US and EU bring new Russian sanctions, but will they do anything? Fi5 2024-02-25 | The US and EU have announced new sanctions on Russia, both to mark two years since the invasion of Ukraine, and as a response to the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny.The sanctions were notable in their targeting of foreign companies for supplying Russia with banned components, but also came in for criticism for their ultimate lack of impact on a Russian economy that is set to grow 2.6% this year according to the IMF, with much of Europe now in recession or stagnation.0:00 US and EU impose new sanctions on Russia0:34 What's in the Eu sanctions package?0:54 Why aren't Western sanctions working on Russia?1:38 What's in the new US sanctions package?Images- Navalny by Evgeny Feldman CC BY-SA 4.0 DEED
Taiwan accuses China of stealing semiconductor tech as chip war escalates Fi5 2024-02-18 | Taiwan’s top diplomat to the US has accused China of cheating and stealing semiconductor technology, as the race for next-generation chips heats up. The world's two largest economies have been in a battle to secure and protect access to semiconductor technology and materials vital for research, military applications and the countries economies, with the battle over chips a central component in the this growing quasi-cold war. ImagesTaiwan by Nasa CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 DEEDTSMC Arizona construciton by TrickHunter CC BY-SA 4.0 DEEDTSMC Fab5 by Peellden CC BY-SA 3.0 DEEDSilicon wafer by Enrique Jiménez CC BY-SA 2.0 DEEDSemiconductor Wafer by DrHughManning CC BY-SA 4.0 DEEDASML fabs: credit ASMLsamsung hq Oskar Alexanderson CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED
