Mercuria ships LME aluminium from Malaysia to New Orleans

At the Bloomberg Business Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Sam Majid, the CEO of Malaysia's National AI Office, discussed the promising future of artificial intelligence in the ASEAN region. He highlighted the policies that are shaping AI's development, as well as the opportunities and risks that lie ahead. This conversation is crucial as it sheds light on how AI can drive innovation and economic growth in Southeast Asia, making it a key topic for businesses and policymakers alike.

A US lawmaker has reached out to the Trump administration, urging them to assist Malaysia in combating chip smuggling. This initiative is significant as it highlights the growing concern over illegal trade practices that undermine fair competition and national security. By addressing this issue, both countries can strengthen their economic ties and ensure a more secure technological landscape.

Donald Trump's recent tour of Asia has left many questions unanswered, particularly regarding the new trade deals he announced. While countries like Malaysia, Japan, and South Korea were eager for tariff reductions, the lack of reciprocity from the US raises concerns about the effectiveness of these agreements. This situation is significant as it highlights the ongoing tensions in international trade and the uncertainty that countries face when negotiating with the US.

Jera Co., Japan's largest power generation company, is optimistic about expanding its liquefied natural gas (LNG) operations in Southeast Asia. With electricity demand on the rise in countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, Jera sees a significant opportunity to leverage LNG to meet this growing need. This move not only highlights the increasing importance of LNG in the region but also positions Jera as a key player in the energy market, potentially benefiting both Japan and its Southeast Asian partners.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's recent trade deal with the US is stirring controversy as lawmakers express concerns over clauses that could grant Washington the power to impose new tariffs and influence Malaysia's trade policies. This situation raises significant questions about national sovereignty and the implications of aligning too closely with US interests, making it a critical issue for Malaysia's economic future.

Malaysia's trade minister has confirmed that the country will continue its ban on raw rare earth exports, despite a recent deal with the U.S. This decision is significant as it reflects Malaysia's commitment to managing its natural resources sustainably while balancing international trade relations. The ban aims to encourage local processing and value addition, which could benefit the Malaysian economy in the long run.

Eugene Remm, co-founder and partner, emphasizes the importance of creating authentic experiences in the restaurant industry. In a recent interview on 'The Close' with Katie Greifeld and Romaine Bostick, he discussed the opening of his 21st restaurant, showcasing his commitment to intimacy and quality in dining. This matters because it highlights a growing trend in the culinary world where personal connections and unique experiences are prioritized, setting a new standard for what diners expect.

The US Department of Justice is investigating a Hong-Kong based traditional Chinese medicine company following an astonishing 46,000% surge in its stock value. This probe highlights concerns over market volatility and the potential for manipulation, raising questions about the integrity of trading practices in the herbal medicine sector.

Michael Chow, a prominent restaurateur and artist, predicts a future where humans will no longer cook, suggesting that technology will take over this essential task within the next 50 years. This vision raises concerns about the loss of culinary traditions and the human touch in cooking, which many consider an art form. As we embrace advancements in automation and artificial intelligence, it's crucial to reflect on what we might lose in the process.

Central Bancompany is making headlines as it prepares for a potential IPO that could value the bank at up to $5.7 billion. This move is significant as it marks a rare occurrence in the U.S. banking sector, where IPOs have become increasingly uncommon. The successful launch of this IPO could not only boost Central Bancompany's growth but also signal a renewed interest in bank investments, potentially attracting more players to the financial market.

Ryan Paul D, a director at Fox Corp, has sold $1.14 million worth of stock. This transaction is significant as it reflects the director's financial decisions and could indicate confidence or concerns about the company's future. Such sales can impact investor sentiment and market perception, making it a noteworthy event for stakeholders.

Wall Street experienced gains, largely driven by a boost from Amazon's strong performance. However, investor enthusiasm is tempered by concerns over rising interest rates, which could impact future market growth. This situation highlights the delicate balance investors must navigate between positive corporate earnings and broader economic indicators.