China's semiconductor equipment makers are advancing rapidly even as the global chip supply chain undergoes restructuring and geopolitical decoupling

Samsung Electronics is said to be expanding its 8nm foundry customer base into Europe following earlier contract wins in the US and Japan

As geopolitical dynamics shift, Singapore has emerged as a focal point for Taiwanese and international investment, underpinned by its stable financial system and neutral political stance. The city-state offers distinct advantages for established companies, startups, and mobile talent, though it maintains rigorous standards for entry and operation

Chinese smartphone vendors continue to expand global shipments, supported by competitive pricing, sustained research investment, and overseas growth

Ahead of the Lunar New Year, Chinese AI startup Z.ai (formerly Zhipu AI) released its open-source model GLM-5, highlighting AI agent capabilities and coding performance. The company said the user experience is "approaching Anthropic Claude Opus 4.5.

Samsung is reportedly evaluating a potential European semiconductor expansion alongside its South Korea and US manufacturing base, as the region tightens local production requirements and Germany seeks a replacement for a cancelled flagship chip investment