TAIWAN DEFENSE
Largecaps over SMIDs: Ambit’s Nitin Bhasin and Bharat Arora share their Samvat 2083 strategy
As we step into the new Samvat, investors are advised to take a more cautious stance with their portfolios. The focus should be on large-cap stocks and the banking sector due to their better earnings prospects and attractive valuations. Meanwhile, although mid- and small-cap sectors may face hurdles, the cement industry might see unexpected margin improvements.
Investors in other markets would be envious of India multiples: Rich Handler, chief executive of Jefferies
Jefferies CEO Rich Handler believes Indian equities remain reasonably valued despite the market correction and says easing long-term capital gains taxes could attract foreign investors. He sees opportunities in India's AI and data centre sectors, argues that global capital outflows reflect external pressures, and believes concerns about an AI bubble warrant a healthy pause rather than alarm.
Pakistan to deploy 30 Chinese Z-10ME attack helicopters in Himalayan region? Blogger reveals reported deal, features and weapon
A Chinese military blogger has claimed that Pakistan signed a contract for 30 Z-10ME attack helicopters with China, although neither country has officially confirmed the reported deal. The development comes as Islamabad looks to modernise its army aviation fleet. The upgraded helicopters feature high-altitude capabilities, advanced targeting systems, anti-tank missiles and electronic warfare equipment.
Donald Trump's political humbling after US midterms signals short-term gain, long-term pain for China
Donald Trump's US midterm election defeat could strengthen China's hand in upcoming US-China trade negotiations, giving Beijing leverage to push for tariff reductions and other concessions. However, Beijing remains wary of a potentially more hawkish US administration after Trump. China's concerns include Taiwan arms sales, a possible Iran war escalation, energy security and the future of its fragile trade truce with Washington.
How are global stock markets reacting to the US midterm election results?
Following the midterm elections where Democrats took control of both Congressional chambers, global stock markets felt the impact. Initial hesitation in European stocks soon gave way to strength, driven by financial sector gains. Precious metals experienced a notable uptick, but defense stocks reeled from concerns over military expenditures. In Asia, markets showed volatility, underscoring investors' adaptative strategies to the altering political scenario.
Quant Mutual Fund reduces exposure to frontline IT stocks as part of profit-booking exercise
Quant Mutual Fund has strategically reduced its exposure to IT stocks and boosted its investments in FMCG sectors. This shift is due to disappointing earnings from key tech companies, leading to a cautious approach towards manufacturing amid ongoing supply chain issues. Nevertheless, the fund expresses confidence in India's investment potential amidst global market instabilities and has also introduced three new index funds for passive investors.
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Charting the global economy: Central banks hold rates steady
Global central banks have opted to keep interest rates unchanged amidst growing inflation worries stemming from energy costs. While the Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank signaled potential hikes during their December meetings, the US economy displays robust growth from business investments and consumer activity.

US and Japan to establish a Japanese facility for joint missile production
The United States and Japan have decided to establish a facility for joint missile production in a strategic partnership. Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi highlighted the importance of this venture in addressing regional security concerns. Both nations aim to enhance their defense cooperation against rising threats, particularly regarding China's assertiveness in Asia. Additionally, discussions emphasized the significance of maintaining a rules-based international order in the region.

These large-, mid- and small-cap stocks can give more than 20% return in 1 year, according to analysts
There is really no doubt about what will happen in the short term. It is going to be tough. Trying to guess the exact day when things will improve is a waste of effort. But a frightened market is exactly when it helps to look the other way. Because markets go too far in both directions, not only the one that is hurting today.

Global Market Today: Asian stocks slide after US tech rout
MSCI Inc.’s regional equities benchmark slipped 0.3%, declining for a second day, leaving the gauge hovering around levels last seen in July. Taiwan’s stock exchange will be shut Friday due to a typhoon. Sentiment stayed weak as contracts for the Nasdaq 100 Index fell 0.3% in early Asian trading.

What's holding up Washington's $14 bn arms sale to Taiwan?
Taiwan has been waiting months for US President Donald Trump to approve a $14 billion sale of weapons and equipment, which the island democracy would use to fend off a potential Chinese attack. - Taiwan is developing a multi-layered air defence system, known as the T-Dome, that it hopes could counter a potential Chinese attack.

Chinese patrols to Taiwan's east are 'destabilising', US Congress-appointed official says
US officials highlight the destabilizing nature of China's coast guard patrols near Taiwan's east coast. Randall Schriver notes that such actions extend China's claims and involve legal and information warfare. Joseph Wu asserts that China has no legitimate rights to these waters surrounding the island. Delays are expected in US arms sales to Taiwan as negotiations continue between the leaders of the US and China.

Will analysts' predictions go wrong? 15 auto stocks with upside potential of up to 50% to as low as negative 1%
For anyone trying to figure out where the economy is headed in the next six months, the numbers to watch will come from auto showrooms. The auto sector has, for long, provided the earliest indications of the health of the economy. And the sales numbers it puts out ahead of the festive weeks are where the correlation is best seen. So, keep a close watch on the auto pack.

Global Market Today: Asian stocks drop on tech jitters, oil edges lower
The MSCI Asia Pacific equities index edged 0.1% lower early Friday. Japan’s Nikkei fell over 1%, with Softbank Group Corp. declining more than 5%. The regional moves came after the Nasdaq 100 Index sank 1.4%, its worst day in seven weeks, while a US gauge of chipmakers slumped 3.4%. The S&P 500 Index dropped 0.5%. Markets are closed in South Korea and Taiwan.

F-35 parts were sent from Australia to Hong Kong: How a shipping error put sensitive US stealth technology near China
A shipment containing sensitive F-35 components was mistakenly routed through Hong Kong due to a communication failure. The parts were initially supposed to travel through South Korea and Taiwan, which are US allies. A missed warning from a freight forwarder, indicating US export restrictions, allowed the error to occur. US authorities are investigating the circumstances of the routing and its implications for military supply chains.

South Korea test-flies its first domestically developed hypersonic weapon
On Thursday, South Korea conducted its first flight test of a domestically developed hypersonic weapon. The weapon is designed to travel at least five times the speed of sound, increasing defense capabilities. President Lee Jae Myung attended the test and emphasized strengthening national security. This development follows escalating tensions with North Korea, particularly after recent mine explosions. North Korea has increased its weapons tests and rejected calls for resumed diplomacy.

Taiwan says US defence commitment unchanged as $14 billion arms sale hangs
Taiwan's Defence Minister Wellington Koo stated that the US commitment to arms sales has not changed. Koo mentioned that discussions about breaking the sales into smaller packages have not been confirmed. Meanwhile, current engagements between Taiwan and the US are contributing to Taiwan's military preparedness. Additionally, Taiwan's Foreign Minister and former President are visiting the US for important diplomatic interactions.

Who is Wanying Zhang? FBI arrests California woman for spying for China, surveilling Taiwan President’s son
Wanying Zhang, a 34-year-old from Irvine, was taken into custody for allegedly spying on Lai Ting-yu, the son of Taiwan's president, under instigation from Chinese authorities. Reportedly gathering photos and information discreetly, Zhang failed to register as a foreign agent. Her arrest occurred at Los Angeles International Airport while she was about to board a flight to Shanghai, highlighting escalating global concerns over espionage activities.

Taiwan bolsters defences against China as first batch of F-16V fighter jets to arrive
Taiwan is set to receive its first two F-16V fighter jets from a delayed US order for 66 aircraft, strengthening its air force amid rising Chinese military pressure. The $8 billion Lockheed Martin deal, approved in 2019, will expand Taiwan’s F-16 fleet beyond 200 jets. Delivery has faced software and other production-related delays, raising concerns over US arms commitments.

US says no China arms sale plans after envoy cites Trump offer
The US ambassador to China stated clearly that there are no intentions to move forward with arms sales. This clarification follows President Trump's controversial suggestion to sell weapons to China during Xi Jinping's Washington visit. Additionally, US arms sales to Taiwan continue to sour relationships with China, which asserts Taiwan as part of its territory.

Donald Trump and Xi Jinping's 'stalemate' summit was a glitzy gift to China
US President Trump's recent meeting with Xi Jinping aimed to strengthen their personal relationship, but limited progress was achieved. Both leaders agreed on lowering tariffs on certain goods, with no specific timeline provided for implementation. The absence of a Chinese CEO delegation highlighted ongoing investment challenges amid mutual suspicions. China's trade has thrived despite US tariff threats, giving it leverage in negotiations.

Washington responds after US ambassador says Trump asked Xi if China wanted to buy American weapons
David Perdue, the US Ambassador to China, made an unusual claim regarding arms sales during a recent interview. He stated that President Trump asked President Xi if he desired to buy American weapons. Following this statement, US officials clarified there are no plans to sell any weapons to China. The US position on Taiwan's independence remains unchanged amid rising tensions over arms sales.

There wasn’t much to Xi: A red carpet, a fragile truce and the search for US-China stability
During Xi Jinping's state visit to Washington, leaders announced modest tariff cuts and a new dialogue on AI safety. The ongoing US-Iran war significantly affects the strategic relationship between the two powers. A report highlights the US's dependence on Chinese rare earths for military needs amid supply challenges. Strategic stability efforts were explored but ultimately did not yield significant progress toward a lasting agreement.

Russian strike drone Geran-4: How it works and what it can do?
Russian Geran-4, a fast and jet-powered attack drone, has been introduced to bypass improved Ukrainian air defenses and mobile interceptor groups. The drone seems to have been evolved from the Iranian-derived Shahed drones family.

Trump-Xi state dinner at White House attended by 21 billionaires with combined wealth almost equal to Canada’s GDP
On September 24, US President Donald Trump hosted a high-profile state dinner welcoming Chinese President Xi Jinping. The event saw the presence of over 130 distinguished guests, including key figures from the tech and business sectors of both nations. The dinner served as a platform to address vital issues, such as trade dynamics, artificial intelligence developments, and tariffs, amidst ongoing tensions.

Wufu, or the five blessings in Chinese tradition: Is the number 5 getting unlucky for Donald Trump
For centuries, five has been tied to an idea called wufu, or the “Five Blessings.” The tradition comes from the Book of Documents and describes five things associated with a complete and fortunate life: longevity, wealth, health and peace of mind, virtue, and a natural death in old age. That makes the number an unusual fit for the latest chapter in Donald Trump’s relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Trump and Xi see tensions flare over AI, trade and Iran but still seek stability
Trump and Xi are set to meet in Washington as the US-China relationship remains marked by intense competition over AI, trade and technology. The leaders are expected to seek stability rather than a major breakthrough, with Iran, Taiwan and tariffs also on the agenda.

Key issues for this week's Trump-Xi summit in Washington
President Trump welcomes Chinese leader Xi Jinping for crucial talks this week. They seek stability in a relationship strained by trade and global issues. Key discussions will focus on trade tariffs and potential agricultural deals. Taiwan's status and China's role in Iran's economy are also on the agenda. Artificial intelligence cooperation and competition will be another significant topic.

What will Trump and Xi discuss in Washington next week?
US President Donald Trump will host Chinese President Xi Jinping on September 24 for their second meeting this year, with trade, Taiwan, Iran, artificial intelligence and fentanyl flows among key issues. Washington is seeking trade wins, while Beijing wants further tariff relief and concessions as tensions between the two powers persist.
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