Citigroup Inc $C revealed plans to reduce approximately 3,500 jobs in its two Chinese technology hubs, located in Shanghai and Dalian. This move is part of a broader effort by the global banking giant to streamline and simplify its technological operations. The downsizing aims to enhance risk management and data governance within Citigroup's expansive global network. The workforce cut is expected to be completed by early Q4 2025, reflecting a significant shift in the company’s operational strategy amid evolving market and regulatory challenges in China and worldwide.
Manufacturing output across Asia declined in May 2025, underscoring renewed challenges in export-dependent economies. Recent private sector surveys revealed that industrial activity fell for a second straight month, driven by weakening demand from China and escalating tariff-related pressures from the United States. With official Chinese data confirming a sustained downturn and manufacturing PMIs in Japan and South Korea remaining in contraction territory, concerns are growing about the durability of the region’s industrial recovery.
According to official data released Tuesday, China's industrial firms posted profit growth in April 2025, signaling resilience in the face of escalating trade tensions with the United States and persistent domestic deflation. Despite mounting geopolitical risks and weakening consumer demand, China's manufacturing sector continues to adapt and recover.
CapitaLand Investment Ltd $9CI.SI, a Singapore-based real estate investment management firm, has announced the launch of its first offshore RMB-denominated master fund in mainland China. The fund, titled CLI RMB Master Fund, marks a strategic expansion into the Chinese real estate market with a total capital commitment of 5 billion yuan (approximately USD 692.6 million).
U.S. pharmaceutical giant Pfizer Inc. $PFE has announced a major licensing and investment agreement with China-based 3SBio Inc. $1530.HK to accelerate the development of a promising cancer therapy. The deal marks a significant step in cross-border cooperation between Western and Chinese biotech sectors.
Nvidia $NVDA, a global leader in AI semiconductors, is adjusting its strategy to navigate tightened U.S. export regulations targeting high-performance chips destined for China. According to a report by Nikkei Asia, the company is preparing to launch customized AI chips that comply with the latest export rules set by the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Sales of electric vehicles by Xiaomi Corp. $1810.HK, a company known for its innovative technology and consumer electronics, have faced significant challenges. According to a recent report by Deutsche Bank AG, the sales of the Xiaomi SU7 sedan in China saw a sharp decline starting in March. This downturn has been attributed to several negative factors, including a fatal road accident and growing consumer dissatisfaction related to the marketing of one version of the vehicle.
Apple $AAPL is intensifying its global manufacturing strategy with a decisive focus on iPhone 17 production in India and China. According to a recent Wedbush research note led by analyst Dan Ives, the tech giant is aligning its supply chain to reinforce Apple’s manufacturing presence in Asia, distancing itself from costly domestic production in the U.S.
Starbucks Corporation $SBUX, one of the largest global coffee chains, has initiated a strategic review of its China operations — the company’s second-largest market worldwide. Facing intensifying competition from local coffee brands and shifting macroeconomic conditions, Starbucks is exploring restructuring options to better adapt to the evolving landscape.
Ferrari NV $RACE, renowned for its high-performance supercars, is gearing up to launch its first fully electric vehicle — the Elettrica EV. Set to debut in October, this launch could play a pivotal role in revitalizing the company's sales in China, particularly in light of recent changes in the nation's tax policies.
In April 2025, China recorded an all-time high in re-exports of liquefied natural gas (LNG). According to ship-tracking data compiled by Bloomberg, re-export volumes surpassed 280,000 tons, marking the highest monthly figure since records began. This amount accounted for 7.7% of China’s total LNG imports during the month.
In recent days, markets have shown optimism due to new signs of easing trade tensions between the United States and China. This has resulted in a rise in emerging market stocks, and the MSCI Emerging Markets Index $MSCI has demonstrated potential for further improvement.
