What is RedNote, the Chinese social media app that US TikTokers are flocking to?
Beijing and London to assess feasibility of UK-China ETF link；Nvidia CEO to visit China amid Beijing’s antitrust probe, US AI chip curbs
Welcome to this issue of The China Brief. Today is January 14, 2025. Here at The China Brief, we bring you the latest news on China's politics, economy, and society from global media sources, along with exclusive expert analysis. If you find our content helpful, please subscribe to our newsletter.
Beijing and London to assess feasibility of UK-China ETF link
Financial Times
The UK and China are exploring the feasibility of establishing exchange traded fund (ETF) and wealth management connect schemes to enhance their capital markets collaboration. This initiative follows UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves' recent visit to Beijing, aimed at strengthening economic ties. The UK government welcomed recent Chinese licenses for UK firms and announced plans to enhance existing stock connect initiatives. A joint task force will support China's capital market reforms, while both countries will consult on mutual fund service provisions. This move is part of China's broader strategy to expand ETF connections with other markets.
https://www.ft.com/content/d91d7ab1-2c2c-449d-8593-40b35eb1e1d7
Nvidia CEO to visit China amid Beijing’s antitrust probe, US AI chip curbs
South China Morning Post
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang is set to visit major cities in China, including Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Beijing, around January 15, amid ongoing tensions between the US and China over technology and trade. His trip coincides with a US government announcement of new restrictions on the sale of advanced AI chips, which Nvidia has criticized for potentially harming American competitiveness. At the same time, Chinese authorities are investigating Nvidia for possible antitrust violations related to a previous acquisition. Huang's itinerary also includes a stop in Taipei, and while it's uncertain if he will meet with Chinese officials during his visit, the trip comes at a critical time for Nvidia's business interests in China, where it generated significant revenue in 2024 and expanded its workforce.
https://www.scmp.com/tech/tech-war/article/3294663/nvidia-ceo-visit-china-amid-beijings-antitrust-probe-us-ai-chip-curbs?utm_source=rss_feed
What is RedNote, the Chinese social media app that US TikTokers are flocking to?
CNN
As the U.S. Supreme Court deliberates on TikTok's future, American users are flocking to Xiaohongshu, a popular Chinese social media app, which has surged to the top of the App Store. Known as "Little Red Book," Xiaohongshu has attracted TikTok users as an act of defiance against potential bans. This migration has sparked cultural exchange between Chinese and American users, with many welcoming the newcomers and sharing tips. Meanwhile, another ByteDance app, Lemon8, is also gaining traction in the U.S. amid concerns over TikTok's potential ban.
https://edition.cnn.com/2025/01/14/tech/rednote-china-popularity-us-tiktok-ban-intl-hnk/index.html
Could Elon Musk really influence US China policy? Chinese academics have doubts
South China Morning Post
Elon Musk's influence on U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's China policy is uncertain, according to Chinese scholars. Despite Musk's strong business ties in China, including significant Tesla operations there, experts like Wang Jisi express skepticism about his ability to bridge U.S.-China relations. Wang suggests that Musk's individual influence is limited, and that broader policies are determined by larger strategic considerations. Zhang Yuyan agrees, citing historical examples that demonstrate how individuals often have marginal influence on major foreign policy decisions. Both scholars emphasize the complexity of U.S.-China relations and the improbability of one person's impact.
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3294505/could-elon-musk-really-influence-us-china-policy-chinese-academics-have-doubts?utm_source=rss_feed
TikTok says report of potential sale to Elon Musk ‘pure fiction’
Al Jazeera
TikTok has rejected a Bloomberg report that claimed the Chinese government is considering selling the platform to Elon Musk to prevent a U.S. ban. The report suggested that talks are underway due to a deadline requiring TikTok's Chinese owner, ByteDance, to divest its U.S. operations by January 19. One potential scenario mentioned was merging TikTok with Musk's social media platform, X. TikTok dismissed the report as "pure fiction."
Meanwhile, the U.S. Supreme Court is reviewing the constitutionality of the potential ban, which TikTok is challenging, as lawmakers from both parties express concerns about national security and data privacy. Outgoing President Joe Biden signed a bill addressing these concerns, while President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to "save" TikTok, reversing his previous stance on banning the app.
https://www.aljazeera.com/economy/2025/1/14/tiktok-says-report-of-potential-sale-to-elon-musk-pure-fiction
Hong Kong can entice family offices with low taxes, currency peg and digital assets
South China Morning Post
Investors suggest that Hong Kong should retain its low tax regime, maintain its US dollar peg, and promote digital asset trading to attract global family offices. Anson Chan emphasized the city's appeal due to low profit tax rates and no inheritance tax. The government faces a budget deficit, projected at HK$100 billion, requiring alternative revenue strategies. With over 2,700 single-family offices established, the region's stability and deep capital markets are attractive. Experts advocate for policies to encourage digital assets and expedite charity foundation setups for family legacies, enhancing Hong Kong's status as a financial hub.
https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3294705/hong-kong-can-entice-family-offices-low-taxes-currency-peg-and-digital-assets?utm_source=rss_feed
China welcomed 20 million visa-free visitors in 2024, more tourism incentives on the way
South China Morning Post
Visa-free travel to China surged by over 112% in 2024, with 20.1 million foreign travelers benefiting from the policy, as Beijing aims to boost post-Covid economic recovery. The National Immigration Administration (NIA) reported a significant increase in foreign visitors, following the relaxation of entry rules and the introduction of unilateral visa exemptions for 38 countries. The State Council plans to further optimize travel policies as part of an 18-point package to stimulate consumption. China reopened to international visitors in January 2023 and continues to enhance its visa-free transit options for travelers.
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3294698/china-welcomed-20-million-visa-free-visitors-2024-more-tourism-incentives-way?utm_source=rss_feed
China is pushing the Philippines `to the wall’ with aggression in the South China Sea, Manila says
Associated Press
A Philippine security official has accused China of increasing aggression in the disputed South China Sea, stating that China is “pushing us to the wall.” The presence of a large Chinese coast guard ship near the Scarborough Shoal, close to Philippine waters, has prompted calls for its immediate withdrawal. The Philippines is considering various responses, including new international lawsuits. Under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Philippines has taken a firmer stance on its territorial claims, seeking security arrangements with allies like Japan. China has rejected previous arbitration rulings and prefers bilateral negotiations.
https://apnews.com/article/south-china-sea-philippines-scarborough-shoal-0a5d18be6859c42895919f05d075c29d
A kidnapped Chinese actor, a scam gang, and a very public rescue operation
Guardian
Wang Xing, a 22-year-old Chinese actor, thought he was attending a casting call in Thailand, only to be abducted and trafficked to a scam compound in Mae Sot, near the Myanmar border. After losing contact with his girlfriend, Jia Jia, Wang was forced into a life of crime alongside others who had been similarly lured under false pretenses. This incident highlights the growing issue of human trafficking in Southeast Asia, particularly in Myanmar, where many individuals are exploited by criminal syndicates for online scams. Despite crackdowns in the region, such operations continue to flourish, often targeting vulnerable individuals, including celebrities.
Following a month-long search, Wang was found, revealing harrowing details of his experience, including being held captive with other victims and forced to undergo training for scams. His plight resonated widely in China, prompting significant media coverage and social media campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of such fraudulent job offers. The case has brought attention to the broader issues of human trafficking and the exploitation of individuals in the entertainment industry, as well as the lack of safety measures in place for those seeking work abroad.
The repercussions of Wang's abduction have extended beyond individual suffering, posing a threat to Thailand's tourism industry, particularly as Chinese tourists express concerns about safety. Thai officials are now under pressure to improve security measures and restore confidence among potential visitors. Wang's return has ignited calls for greater action against trafficking networks, as well as support for the families of those still missing. His story serves as a reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive efforts to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable populations in the region.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jan/14/wang-xing-chinese-actor-abduction-thailand-myanmar-scam-ntwnfb
Communist Party propaganda chief calls for boosting public opinion on China-Japan ties
South China Morning Post
Li Shulei, a senior Chinese propaganda official, expressed China's willingness to collaborate with Japan to improve public perceptions between their nations during a meeting with Japanese lawmakers in Beijing. The delegation, part of a three-day visit, is expected to engage in bilateral dialogues aimed at stabilizing strained relations. Recent incidents have worsened public sentiment, with a poll indicating a significant decline in positive views of each other. Both countries aim to enhance political dialogue, cultural exchanges, and resolve safety and import issues, with future visits planned by Japanese and Chinese officials.
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3294700/communist-party-propaganda-chief-calls-boosting-public-opinion-china-japan-ties?utm_source=rss_feed
China confirms PLA Navy’s new Type 076 amphibious assault ship will be a drone carrier
South China Morning Post
China's new Type 076 amphibious assault ship is set to enhance its uncrewed combat capabilities, serving as a drone carrier, according to PLA naval commander Chi Jianjun. The ship integrates uncrewed systems into military operations, highlighting a shift towards automation in warfare. With the ability to deploy both crewed and uncrewed systems, the Type 076 is larger than its predecessor, the Type 075, and features an electromagnetic catapult. It is expected to bolster PLA operations in potential conflicts, particularly concerning Taiwan, amid rising geopolitical tensions. The Type 076 may include advanced drones and robotic systems for amphibious missions.
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3294568/china-confirms-pla-navys-new-type-076-amphibious-assault-ship-will-be-drone-carrier?utm_source=rss_feed
Is China exploiting South Korea's political crisis?
Deutsche Welle
China has constructed a large floating structure in a disputed area of the West Sea, which South Korea claims as its territory. This move has raised concerns among analysts who believe it reflects China's strategy to assert territorial control, similar to its actions in the South China Sea over the past decade. Despite a bilateral agreement prohibiting construction in the area, China has previously claimed these structures serve merely as "fishing support facilities," leading to diplomatic protests from South Korea. The ongoing political turmoil in South Korea, including President Yoon Suk-yeon's recent declaration of martial law, has fueled speculation that China may be attempting to exploit the situation to strengthen its territorial claims. Experts note that large oil deposits may lie beneath the seabed in this region, further motivating China's actions. The construction is viewed as a violation of international law and existing agreements, raising concerns that China could replicate its South China Sea strategy in this area. While South Korea has also engaged in maritime construction, analysts caution that China’s actions could escalate territorial disputes further in East Asia.
https://www.dw.com/en/is-china-exploiting-south-koreas-political-crisis/a-71292223
Biden opens up federal land for AI data centers to stay ahead of China
Nikkei Asia
The Biden administration has initiated measures to enhance artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure by opening federal land for large-scale data centers while expediting project approvals. The Departments of Defense and Energy will identify sites for private companies to build gigawatt-scale AI centers, which must be powered by clean energy. This action aims to prevent the U.S. from falling behind countries like China in AI capabilities. Concurrently, Biden introduced new AI technology export rules to restrict adversaries' access. Experts argue these efforts are vital for maintaining U.S. leadership in technology and job creation.
https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Technology/Biden-opens-up-federal-land-for-AI-data-centers-to-stay-ahead-of-China
Hong Kong task force meets Thai police, tourism officials over scam farm detainees
South China Morning Post
A Hong Kong task force met with Thai police and tourism officials to discuss the recovery of a dozen residents lured into scam factories in Southeast Asia. Hong Kong's Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu praised the progress made by the task force, noting strong cooperation from Thai authorities. The Hong Kong government is using its connections with Interpol and international anti-narcotics operations to assist in the rescue efforts. The details of the investigations remain confidential to protect the victims. The task force held meetings with senior Thai police officials and discussed how to tackle international fraud. Twelve Hong Kong residents, aged 21 to 43, are reportedly safe and able to communicate with their families. Calls for their safe return have intensified following the kidnapping of mainland Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was rescued from a scam operation in Myanmar.
https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3294744/hong-kong-task-force-meets-thai-police-tourism-officials-over-scam-farm-detainees?utm_source=rss_feed
Apple leads smartphone market in fourth quarter, overcoming China decline
South China Morning Post
Apple led the global smartphone market in Q4 2024, claiming 23% market share despite challenges in China. The success was attributed to the iPhone 16 series launch in September, which boosted holiday sales. However, Apple faced a 25% sales decline in China due to regulatory issues and competition from Huawei and other local brands. Samsung ranked second globally with 16% market share, while Xiaomi, Transsion, and Vivo completed the top five. The overall global smartphone market grew 7% in 2024, recovering from previous declines, with total shipments reaching 1.22 billion units. However, growth slowed to 3% in Q4, raising concerns about sustaining this performance into 2025 due to fluctuating demand and economic uncertainties.
https://www.scmp.com/tech/big-tech/article/3294727/apple-leads-smartphone-market-fourth-quarter-overcoming-china-decline?utm_source=rss_feed
Tibet’s quake is a seismic warning to China and India over their mega dam ambitions
South China Morning Post
Beijing's announcement of a mega dam project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River, near the disputed Tibetan Plateau border with India, has raised tensions between the two nations. The project, significantly larger than the Three Gorges Dam, was revealed shortly after a period of improving relations between China and India. While India expressed concerns about the dam's potential impact on downstream water flow, Beijing dismissed these worries, claiming the project would aid disaster prevention. The situation underscores the ongoing rivalry and environmental concerns surrounding dam construction in a seismically active region.
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3294740/tibets-quake-seismic-warning-china-and-india-over-their-mega-dam-ambitions?utm_source=rss_feed
Can China top the US economically by 2030? Economist reaffirms bold 1994 prediction
South China Morning Post
Chinese economist Justin Lin Yifu predicts that China's economy will surpass the United States within 5 to 10 years, despite recent slowdowns in growth. Speaking at the Asian Financial Forum, Lin noted that while China’s GDP growth rate has decreased to about 5%, the U.S. rate has also declined to approximately 2.5%. He remains optimistic about China's potential for growth, citing strengths in emerging industries and a large domestic market. Lin's forecast aligns with his earlier predictions from 31 years ago, even amid skepticism expressed by U.S. President Joe Biden regarding China's economic prospects.
https://www.scmp.com/economy/global-economy/article/3294732/can-china-top-us-economically-2030-economist-reaffirms-bold-1994-prediction?utm_source=rss_feed
EU probe finds ‘unfair’ limits in China’s medical device market, adding to trade rift
South China Morning Post
An EU investigation has revealed discrimination against European companies in China's public procurement market for medical devices, escalating the ongoing trade dispute between the two entities. The report indicates that China restricts EU medical device producers from accessing government contracts unfairly. Following the investigation under the EU's international procurement instrument (IPI), the European Commission is contemplating punitive measures, starting with consultations with China. If necessary, the EU could impose restrictions on Chinese bidders for government contracts in Europe. The IPI, adopted in June 2022, aims to ensure fair access to procurement markets, highlighting the disparity in access between Chinese manufacturers in the EU and EU firms in China. EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic emphasized the need for reciprocal openness in trade relations. The findings are likely to heighten tensions in trade relations, which have been in a state of uncertainty as both sides await the implications of the upcoming US administration.
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3294737/eu-probe-finds-unfair-limits-chinas-medical-device-market-adding-trade-rift?utm_source=rss_feed
Taiwanese military focuses on PLA cognitive warfare threat in revamped TV show
South China Morning Post
Taiwan's military television program, Juguang Garden, has been revamped to address the growing threat of cognitive warfare from China's People’s Liberation Army. The updated format retains its educational elements but emphasizes the dangers of disinformation and psychological tactics used by Beijing to undermine Taiwanese morale. The Taiwanese defense ministry aims to equip military personnel with skills to discern misinformation and recognize infiltration strategies. Recent reports indicate a rise in espionage cases linked to Chinese efforts to recruit active service members. The program also highlights Taiwan's geopolitical challenges and the need for a resilient society in its defense strategy.
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3294549/taiwanese-military-focuses-pla-cognitive-warfare-threat-revamped-tv-show?utm_source=rss_feed
China slows supply chain shifts by Apple, others as Trump 2.0 looms
Nikkei Asia
China is intensifying scrutiny of exports from American tech companies like Apple, causing delays in shipments of production equipment to Southeast Asia and India. This follows new dual-use technology export controls implemented in December, which impact items that can serve both military and commercial purposes. The increased customs checks come amidst rising tensions between the U.S. and China, with the Biden administration enforcing new restrictions on AI chips and adding Chinese entities to a trade blacklist. The situation complicates American companies' efforts to diversify their supply chains away from China.
https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Supply-Chain/China-slows-supply-chain-shifts-by-Apple-others-as-Trump-2.0-looms
US ‘TikTok refugees’ discover China’s Xiaohongshu as app tops Apple’s charts
South China Morning Post
Amid fears of a potential TikTok ban due to national security concerns, many users are migrating to Xiaohongshu, a Chinese social media app, which has surged to the top of the Apple charts in the US. Influencers like Nuha and Sarah Schauer are encouraging their followers to join the new platform, while expressing sadness over TikTok's uncertain future. Xiaohongshu, launched in 2013, combines e-commerce and user-generated content, appealing to younger audiences. As American users find their footing on the app, Chinese users are welcoming them with messages of support.
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3294639/self-styled-tiktok-refugees-find-new-chinese-app-sending-it-no-1-us?utm_source=rss_feed
In farewell, Biden urges Trump to tackle China’s overcapacity, clean energy dominance
South China Morning Post
President Joe Biden urged Donald Trump to address China's dominance in clean energy and overcapacity, emphasizing that the U.S. must win this competition. In his final message, Biden claimed that his administration has strengthened America's position against China by fostering alliances and countering its economic influence. He highlighted the importance of continuing investments in clean energy and maintaining tariffs on Chinese products. Trump, known for his skepticism about climate initiatives, faces a dilemma between his agenda and the need for job creation and competitiveness in the clean energy sector. Biden called for ongoing collaboration with allies to counter China effectively.
https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3294621/farewell-biden-urges-trump-tackle-chinas-overcapacity-clean-energy-dominance?utm_source=rss_feed
Chinese tech firms face curbs on overseas expansion under Trump 2.0, UBS analyst says
South China Morning Post
Chinese tech companies are facing increased risks in expanding overseas as Donald Trump returns to the White House, with expectations of new policies affecting sectors like e-commerce and AI, according to UBS analyst Kenneth Fong. The US Department of Defense recently designated Tencent and other companies as “Chinese military entities,” raising concerns about further restrictions and trade tensions. Meanwhile, ByteDance's TikTok faces a potential ban in the US, impacting its e-commerce operations. Despite these challenges, Chinese firms are likely to continue investing internationally amid a competitive domestic market.
https://www.scmp.com/tech/big-tech/article/3294584/chinese-tech-firms-face-curbs-overseas-expansion-under-trump-20-ubs-analyst-says?utm_source=rss_feed
Starmer unveils US$17 billion plan for UK to be ‘AI superpower’, as critics warn of job losses
South China Morning Post
Prime Minister Keir Starmer unveiled an "AI Opportunities Action Plan" to enhance the UK economy through artificial intelligence, promising pro-growth regulations to attract investment. The plan includes 50 recommendations aimed at improving efficiency across public sectors and creating dedicated AI growth zones. Starmer emphasized a distinctively British approach to AI regulation, contrasting with the EU's stringent rules. Amid concerns about AI's implications, the government projected AI could add £47 billion annually to the UK economy over the next decade. Critics, however, raised concerns about insufficient funding and potential job losses associated with widespread AI adoption.
https://www.scmp.com/news/world/europe/article/3294600/starmer-unveils-us17-billion-plan-uk-be-ai-superpower-critics-warn-job-losses?utm_source=rss_feed
Shot in the arm for Hong Kong as key financial facilitator
SCMP Opinion
Beijing is reaffirming its commitment to Hong Kong as an international financial hub by introducing measures to enhance its role as an offshore yuan financing center. This includes a 100 billion yuan liquidity facility for banks to assist customers with yuan funding for trade. Additionally, there are plans to improve the Bond Connect scheme and increase access to China’s foreign exchange reserves. Central bank governor Pan Gongsheng emphasized the importance of Hong Kong's capital market in maintaining its financial center status, with efforts to attract high-quality listings and bond issuances. After facing challenges post-2019 social unrest and the pandemic, Hong Kong has made progress in the IPO market, ranking fifth globally in 2024. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu highlighted initiatives to position Hong Kong as a global gold center and attract capital from various regions amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3294607/shot-arm-hong-kong-key-financial-facilitator?utm_source=rss_feed
Chinese officials reportedly discuss sale of TikTok in US to Elon Musk
Guardian
Chinese officials are reportedly in preliminary discussions about potentially selling TikTok's US operations to Elon Musk if the app cannot avoid a ban in the United States. While Beijing prefers that TikTok remain under the control of its parent company, ByteDance, the future of the app may no longer be solely in its hands. The Chinese government holds a "golden share" in ByteDance, which some members of Congress believe gives them influence over TikTok. One scenario involves Musk's social media platform, X, taking control of TikTok's US operations. However, it is unclear how informed ByteDance is about these discussions or whether any formal talks between Musk and TikTok have occurred. TikTok has stated that the Chinese government's stake does not affect its global operations. Meanwhile, the US Supreme Court appears ready to uphold a law that could force a sale or ban of TikTok by January 19 due to national security concerns.
https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2025/jan/13/china-tiktok-sale-elon-musk
China unfairly dominates shipbuilding, US investigation finds, paving way for penalties
South China Morning Post
The Biden administration has determined that China employs unfair practices to dominate global maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors, following a trade investigation initiated in April 2024. The investigation, prompted by US labor unions, found that China uses subsidies, barriers for foreign firms, forced technology transfer, and intellectual property theft to gain an advantage, while suppressing labor costs. China's share of the global shipbuilding industry has surged from 5% in 2000 to over 50% in 2023. The findings could lead to tariffs on Chinese vessels, reflecting bipartisan concerns about revitalizing the US shipbuilding industry.
https://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3294611/china-unfairly-dominates-us-shipbuilding-investigation-finds-paving-way-penalties?utm_source=rss_feed
China's economy will never surpass U.S., Biden says in exit speech
Nikkei Asia
In his final foreign policy speech, President Joe Biden asserted that China will never surpass the U.S. economically, crediting his administration for strengthening America’s position globally. He highlighted the importance of continued focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and clean energy, urging the incoming Trump administration to prioritize these areas. Biden emphasized that investments in domestic technologies and worker protection have altered predictions about China's economic trajectory. He warned against offshoring AI development and criticized skepticism towards clean energy and climate change, labeling it a significant threat. He concluded that the U.S. must lead in clean energy to shape the future global economy and counter China's ambitions.
https://asia.nikkei.com/Politics/International-relations/US-China-tensions/China-s-economy-will-never-surpass-U.S.-Biden-says-in-exit-speech
China is not only winning the tech war. It’s also rewriting the rules
South China Morning Post
The U.S. is increasingly challenged by China's dominance in raw materials and artificial intelligence (AI), impacting the semiconductor and technology sectors. While the U.S. attempts to restrict China's access to advanced technology, China is leveraging its control over critical resources and advancing AI capabilities, posing a threat to U.S. technological leadership. China's strategic investments in materials essential for manufacturing and military technology create dependencies that could reshape global supply chains. As China leads in AI, it influences multiple industries, complicating U.S. efforts to maintain its competitive edge and forcing nations to navigate complex trade relationships.
https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3294013/china-not-only-winning-tech-war-its-also-rewriting-rules?utm_source=rss_feed
Russia, China turn nuclear fuel into bargaining chip with the West
Nikkei Asia
Russia and China are using their dominance in low-enriched uranium supply to pressure the U.S. and Europe amid rising global energy demand. Following U.S. sanctions on Russian uranium imports due to the Ukraine war, Russia restricted its exports to the U.S., which previously relied on Russia for 24% of its nuclear fuel. China has increased its uranium exports to the U.S., potentially aiding Russia in circumventing sanctions. The EU struggles to reduce reliance on Russian uranium, especially as geopolitical tensions rise in Africa, complicating supply chain alternatives. A decade may be needed to fully replace Russian uranium.
https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Energy/Russia-China-turn-nuclear-fuel-into-bargaining-chip-with-the-West
Could AI save the UK economy? – Politics Weekly Westminster
Guardian
The article encourages readers to vote for "Politics Weekly UK" in the iNHouse Political Podcast Awards, specifically in the people's choice category. It features a call to action and includes a photograph from the BBC.
https://www.theguardian.com/politics/audio/2025/jan/13/could-ai-save-the-uk-economy-politics-weekly-westminster
Binance, Changpeng Zhao lose US Supreme Court crypto lawsuit appeal despite China base
South China Morning Post
The US Supreme Court has declined to hear an appeal from Binance and its founder, Changpeng Zhao, regarding a lawsuit from investors accusing the cryptocurrency exchange of illegally selling unregistered tokens that depreciated significantly. The 2nd US Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that US securities laws could apply to Binance, even though it is not a US company, because the purchase of tokens became irrevocable in the US once payment was made. Binance argued that it should not be subject to US laws and referenced a 2010 Supreme Court decision that limited the reach of US securities regulations. The lawsuit involves investors who bought various tokens from Binance and are seeking to recover their losses. This case is separate from Binance's previous legal issues, including a guilty plea and substantial penalties related to anti-money-laundering violations.
https://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3294603/china-founded-binance-changpeng-zhao-lose-us-supreme-court-appeal-avoid-crypto-lawsuit?utm_source=rss_feed
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