Suzuki Motor Corporation $7269.T, one of Japan’s major automotive manufacturers, has announced a temporary suspension of production for its popular compact model Swift — excluding the Swift Sport variant — from May 26 to June 6. This pause is attributed to supply shortages caused by China's tightened restrictions on rare earth metal exports, according to two sources familiar with the matter. Suzuki thus becomes the first Japanese automaker directly affected by these new export limitations imposed by China.

Chinese automaker Geely has ignited controversy with a $2.2 billion bid to privatize its premium electric vehicle subsidiary Zeekr $ZK. The offer, aimed at integrating Zeekr more closely with Geely Auto $0175.HK, has been challenged by prominent institutional investors, who claim the valuation significantly undervalues Zeekr’s growth potential and market positioning in the luxury EV segment.

French luxury spirits producer Remy Cointreau $REMYY announced on Wednesday the appointment of Frank Marilly as its new Chief Executive Officer. Marilly, aged 59, will assume the role on June 25, succeeding Eric Vallat, who stepped down earlier this year after over five years leading the company. This leadership transition occurs amid steep sales declines and looming tariff threats in critical markets such as the United States (USD) and China (CNY), where Remy Cointreau faces substantial export headwinds.