China factory activity stumbles as export orders dry up

With Donald Trump's departure from the political scene, Xi Jinping is poised to take a more prominent role at the upcoming APEC summit. This shift is significant as it could reshape the dynamics of international trade and diplomacy in the Asia-Pacific region, especially in the context of U.S.-China relations. Observers are keen to see how Xi will leverage this opportunity to strengthen China's influence and address key issues such as economic cooperation and climate change.

US stocks are currently near all-time highs, thanks to easing trade tensions between the US and China, which has allowed corporate America to largely ignore tariff pressures. However, this optimistic outlook doesn't mean that Wall Street professionals are feeling secure, especially with rising debt and stock valuations looming over the market. It's a complex situation that highlights the delicate balance between growth and potential risks.

China's metals association has proposed implementing capacity caps to address the ongoing issue of oversupply in the metals market. This move is significant as it aims to stabilize prices and ensure a more balanced supply-demand dynamic, which could benefit both producers and consumers in the long run.

China's industry association has proposed a capacity cap for copper, lead, and zinc production, aiming to stabilize the market and promote sustainable practices. This recommendation is significant as it reflects the country's commitment to reducing overproduction and environmental impact, which could lead to more stable prices and a healthier industry in the long run.

Nvidia's CEO expressed optimism about the potential sale of their Blackwell chips in China, but emphasized that the final decision rests with the Trump administration. This situation highlights the ongoing complexities of international trade and technology transfer, particularly in the semiconductor industry, which is crucial for global tech advancements.

At the Apec summit in South Korea, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered a sobering message to Asia-Pacific leaders, declaring that the era of free trade and investment is over. This statement highlights a significant shift in the global economy, as Carney emphasizes the profound changes underway, particularly in light of China's defense of free trade. This matters because it signals a potential reconfiguration of international trade relationships and economic policies that could impact global markets and cooperation.

At the recent APEC summit, China's President Xi Jinping showcased his leadership following a trade truce with the U.S. under President Trump. This development is significant as it highlights China's growing influence in global trade discussions and the potential for improved economic relations between the two nations. The summit served as a platform for Xi to reinforce China's commitment to multilateralism and open markets, which could lead to more collaborative efforts in the Asia-Pacific region.

Taiwan's president has firmly rejected China's 'one country, two systems' proposal, emphasizing the island's desire for autonomy and self-determination. This stance is significant as it highlights the ongoing tensions between Taiwan and China, particularly in light of China's increasing assertiveness in the region. The president's remarks resonate with many Taiwanese who value their democratic freedoms and are wary of Beijing's influence.

Recent developments in the credit market are raising alarms for Wall Street, suggesting potential instability ahead. The metaphor of cockroaches sinking a ship highlights the concern that small issues can lead to larger problems in financial systems. This matters because it could signal a downturn in the economy, affecting investments and consumer confidence.

The Bloomberg Brief for October 31, 2025, provides a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in finance and markets. This video highlights key trends and insights that are shaping the economic landscape, making it essential for investors and analysts to stay informed. Understanding these updates can help individuals and businesses make better financial decisions.

LendInvest Secured Income II has reported an impressive £39 million in eligible loans for the third quarter of 2025. This significant figure highlights the growing confidence in the property finance market and showcases LendInvest's strong position in providing accessible funding solutions. As the demand for loans continues to rise, this achievement not only reflects the company's robust performance but also signals a positive trend for investors looking for reliable opportunities in the financial sector.

Connect Biopharma has received a Buy rating from BTIG, highlighting the company's promising potential in the respiratory drug market. This endorsement is significant as it suggests confidence in the company's innovative approaches and could attract more investors, boosting its stock performance. The focus on respiratory treatments is particularly timely given the ongoing global health challenges, making this development noteworthy for both the company and its stakeholders.

UBS has adjusted its price target for Zillow Group's stock from $95 to $92 while maintaining a 'Buy' rating. This change reflects UBS's analysis of the current market conditions and Zillow's performance. Investors should note that despite the lowered target, the 'Buy' rating suggests confidence in Zillow's long-term potential.

AppLovin's stock price target has been lowered to $664 by BTIG, reflecting mixed feedback from analysts. This adjustment highlights concerns about the company's performance and market perception, which could impact investor confidence and future growth prospects.