Trump Returns to White House, China and its military Prepare for Big Move

China has been actively demonstrating its military capabilities and hybrid warfare tactics recently, which are seen as a challenge to both the outgoing and incoming US administrations. The activities indicate China's ambitions and intentions, drawing attention to the challenges they pose. China has been showcasing new military capabilities, such as putting pressure on US allies and engaging in hybrid warfare in cyberspace. They have unveiled suspected new-generation fighter aircraft, launched new warships, simulated a naval blockade of Japan, and conducted extensive exercises near Taiwan. In contrast, the US has accused Chinese hackers of major cyberattacks and raised concerns about China's involvement in damaging critical undersea infrastructure. These actions by China may form part of a strategy to influence the approach of the incoming administration.

https://internasional.kontan.co.id/news/trump-kembali-ke-gedung-putih-tiongkok-dan-militernya-persiapkan-langkah-besar?page=all

China and India Seek New Oil Supply

Due to US sanctions on Russian producers and ships, Chinese and Indian refineries are expected to increase their oil imports from the Middle East, Africa, and the United States. This will result in limited supplies. Consequently, there is likely to be an increase in the cost of transportation and oil prices. The US Treasury Department has recently imposed sanctions on Russian oil producers Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegas, as well as 183 ships involved in delivering Russian oil. Last year, 143 of these tankers carried over 530 million barrels of Russian crude oil, accounting for 42% of Russia's total crude oil exports. Approximately 300 million barrels were received by China, with the majority of the remaining supply going to India. It is anticipated that these sanctions will reduce the number of vessels available for delivering Russian oil, leading to higher shipping rates. In 2024, Russian crude imports to India increased by 4.5%, while imports to China, including pipeline imports, rose by 2%.

https://internasional.kontan.co.id/news/china-dan-india-mencari-pasokan-minyak-baru

Biden delays execution of Nippon Steel's acquisition of U.S. Steel

The Biden administration has decided to postpone the cancellation of Nippon Steel's acquisition of U.S. Steel until June 2025. The acquisition was initially blocked by President Biden on 3 January 2025 due to security concerns. The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), an inter-agency review body, has analysed the deal, and the delay will enable the courts to review the lawsuits filed by U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel against Biden's order.The parties had previously been given 30 days to cancel the transaction. The extension has been met with satisfaction by U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel, who are eager to finalise the transaction and ensure the resilience of the American steel industry.They have also filed a lawsuit, alleging that Biden's rejection influenced the CFIUS review, denying them a fair assessment.Both companies are seeking a federal appeals court to overturn Biden's decision and order a new review. Typically, CFIUS, under the auspices of the Secretary of the Treasury, makes independent decisions regarding mergers and acquisitions.PT Bank QNB Indonesia has collaborated with three asset management companies to introduce a range of US dollar mutual fund products. These funds aim to provide customers with diversified portfolios and opportunities for optimal returns, while also supporting the development of the financial sector.

https://internasional.kontan.co.id/news/biden-tunda-eksekusi-akuisisi-nippon-steel-pada-us-steel