Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix have rejected a proposal to prepay KRW25 trillion (approx. US$18.7 billion) in electricity bills, highlighting the financing challenge facing South Korea as it accelerates semiconductor expansion and the power infrastructure needed to support it.

Chinese artificial intelligence developer Z.ai (formerly Zhipu AI) plans to raise about US$5 billion through a Hong Kong share placement and convertible bond sale, which would give the company fresh capital for next-generation model development, computing infrastructure and business expansion.

Hua Hong Grace (HHGrace) has completed the share issuance for its acquisition of a 97.4988% stake in Huali Microelectronics (HLMC), strengthening the company's position in China's semiconductor foundry market.

Renesas Electronics is reportedly preparing a second product price increase this year, with new pricing set to take effect January 1, 2027, as rising manufacturing costs coincide with stronger demand for power semiconductors used in data centers and other high-growth applications.

China's humanoid robot boom is entering a harder phase. After years of headline-grabbing demonstrations and heavy private funding, companies are being pressed to prove something less theatrical but more consequential: that robots can perform reliable work, generate recurring revenue, and justify their valuations.