Industry Trends
U.S. Department of Defense Becomes Largest Shareholder of MP Materials, Accelerating Domestic Rare Earth Supply Chain
The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has taken a historic step by acquiring a 15% stake in MP Materials through a $400 million preferred stock purchase, making it the largest shareholder of the U.S.-based rare earth producer . This move aims to address critical national security vulnerabilities by reducing reliance on foreign (particularly Chinese) rare earth supplies, which are essential for advanced military systems, electric vehicles, and renewable energy technologies.
NVIDIA Becomes First Company to Hit $4 Trillion Market Cap Amid AI Boom
During the early trading session on July 9, NVIDIA's stock surged nearly 2.8% to $164.42 (approximately ¥1,178.58), briefly pushing its total market capitalization beyond $4 trillion. This milestone makes NVIDIA the first company globally to achieve this feat. Currently, only three companies exceed $3 trillion in valuation: Microsoft ranks second at $3.75 trillion, followed by Apple at $3.14 trillion
U.S. Launches Section 301 Investigation Against Brazil
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) announced the initiation of a Section 301 investigation into Brazil. The probe will examine whether Brazil’s policies and practices in areas such as digital trade, electronic payment services, "unfair" preferential tariffs, intellectual property protection, ethanol market access, and deforestation-related measures negatively impact U.S. trade interests.
Malaysia Imposes Controls on AI Chip Exports
Malaysia’s Ministry of International Trade and Industry announced on July 14 that all U.S.-made high-end AI chips must now secure a "strategic goods trade license" and notify authorities 30 days in advance for export, transshipment, or transit through the country. Individuals or firms evading controls face severe legal penalties. Malaysia also stated it is considering adding U.S. high-end AI chips to its strategic goods list.
U.S. Launches National Security Probe into Drone, Polysilicon Imports
The U.S. Department of Commerce announced on July 14 that the Trump administration has initiated an investigation into imports of drones and polysilicon—a semiconductor material—to assess their impact on U.S. national security. The Section 232 probe, which began quietly on July 1 without public disclosure, could pave the way for higher tariffs on these imports.
Twitch to Exit Russian Market Amid Regulatory Pressures, Facing $800,000 in Fines
Amazon-owned live streaming platform Twitch is planning a full withdrawal from the Russian market, citing concerns over economic viability and mounting regulatory pressures, according to recent reports.
Brazilian Retail Rebounds in May: Street Commerce Drives Recovery, Holidays and Climate Play Pivotal Roles
SAO PAULO, Brazil, June 25 (News Wire) – Brazil's retail sector staged a recovery in May, with foot traffic at physical stores rising 1.86% year-on-year, marking a significant turnaround from April's 3.99% decline. This rebound was primarily fueled by a robust 3.8% surge in street commerce, according to Seed Digital's Retail Purchase Intent Index (IICV Seed).