World

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has severely impacted agricultural production in the world's "breadbasket" region. Ukrainian farmers can't tend fields, ports are closed, and wheat exports are disrupted, potentially causing global food shortages and price increases starting in July.

The FBI has released a declassified document about the 9/11 attacks, showing contacts between hijackers and Saudi officials. Ordered by President Biden, the 16-page report provides new insights while maintaining some redactions about potential Saudi government involvement.

Toyota and Honda have strongly criticized a proposed tax incentive plan by House Democrats that would provide an additional $4,500 tax break for union-made electric vehicles. The automakers argue the bill discriminates against non-unionized workers and unfairly benefits Detroit's Big Three automakers. The proposal is part of a larger $3.5 trillion spending bill.

Malaysia is actively working to mitigate semiconductor order backlogs that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. Global supply chain issues, including lockdowns, factory incidents, and transportation challenges, have significantly impacted the semiconductor industry's production and delivery capabilities.

Chinese bubble tea brand Nayuki, founded in Shenzhen in 2014 by Peng Xin and Zhao Lin, plans to raise $656 million through its Hong Kong initial public offering. The company will sell 257.3 million shares priced between HK$17.2 and HK$19.8, potentially valuing the founders' stake at over $1.1 billion.

Telecommunications giants Axiata Group and Telenor Asia have finalized a strategic merger of their Malaysian wireless operations, creating a robust digital convergence service provider. The combined entity promises significant synergies, with projected pre-tax profits of 5.7 billion ringgit and potential for enhanced market competitiveness in the regional tech landscape.

UEM Sunrise Bhd has partnered with Maybank Islamic's HouzKEY to help more clients become homeowners. The collaboration provides first and second-time homebuyers with zero payments during construction, zero down payments, and 100% financing across 10 projects, making home ownership more accessible.

Malaysian engineering firm KAB partners with Janakuasa to enter Vietnam's renewable energy market. The collaboration involves establishing a special purpose company to acquire majority stakes in three hydropower stations, with power purchase agreements valid from 2030 to 2039.

Federal Reserve economists uncovered significant trade anomalies during Trump's tariff period, suggesting potential misreporting by Chinese exporters and US importers to manipulate trade values and tax implications.

Singapore's sovereign wealth fund GIC Pte Ltd has purchased a 16% stake in Sunway Healthcare Holdings for RM750 million. Greenwood Capital, a GIC arm, signed a share purchase agreement to acquire interests in Sunway Healthcare, including 100 million shares and convertible preferred shares.