Markets

Intel launched a “USAI” section on its website, emphasizing its commitment to American chip manufacturing – claiming to be the only U.S. company manufacturing advanced chips domestically for over 50 years. This follows a meeting between Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger and President Trump, signaling a potential shift in sentiment. Facing global competition and scrutiny, Intel aims to solidify its standing as a vital American asset. Gelsinger addressed concerns about his background and assured the company is on track to advanced U.S. semiconductor manufacturing process.

Sony has completed shifting its PlayStation 5 (PS5) console production for the U.S. market out of China in response to U.S. tariffs. According to CFO Hiroki Totoki, this supply chain realignment aims to mitigate the impact of trade tensions. The production shift for PS5 peripherals is expected to be finalized by the end of September 2025. While current PS5 prices in the U.S. remain stable, Sony will dynamically adjust future pricing based on various factors including profitability and market competitiveness.

A Chinese national, Zhang Shuqing, who owns a significant stake in Ounajima Island near Okinawa, Japan, intends to increase her holdings. Currently controlling 720 out of over 900 ownership rights, she initially gained attention for purchasing the 700,000-square-meter island. Zhang has no immediate development plans, considering leaving it to her children. A helicopter landing pad is under construction for company retreats. Described as therapeutic with excellent diving and camping, the uninhabited island once housed Ryukyu limestone extraction settlements and features wild goats and coral reefs. The closest point to mainland China is approximately 700 kilometers.

Nepra Foods (NPRFF) received a Management Cease Trade Order (MCTO) from the BCSC due to delayed annual financial filings. The MCTO restricts the CEO and CFO from trading company securities until the filings are completed, with an extended deadline of September 29, 2025. Regular shareholders are not affected and can continue trading. The company is working to complete the filings, and will issue bi-weekly updates. The delay negatively impacts the company by restricting trading for key executives.

Nuclear Fuels Inc. shareholders approved the merger with Premier American Uranium Inc. with 95.08% support. Nuclear Fuels shareholders will receive 0.33 shares of Premier American Uranium for each share held. The deal still requires court and exchange approvals, with closing expected around August 25th. The combined entity aims to become a key player in the U.S. uranium sector, driven by growing demand for clean energy and the need for secure domestic uranium supplies. The merger will combine Nuclear Fuels’ exploration assets with Premier American Uranium’s development expertise.

Gree Electric’s WeChat account renaming sparked speculation, but the change is related to launching an online “Dong Mingzhu Healthy Home” store. Tencent’s naming policies necessitated the shift. This follows the success of “Dong Mingzhu Healthy Home,” leveraging Dong Mingzhu’s personal brand to boost market awareness and validate Gree’s brand strategy. Gree plans to establish 10,000 such stores nationwide. Dong Mingzhu emphasizes her contribution to Gree’s success.

Kemper Corporation (KMPR) announced a $150 million accelerated share repurchase (ASR) agreement with Goldman Sachs, part of its $550 million authorization. The insurer believes shares are undervalued and the ASR demonstrates confidence in its business. Kemper will pay Goldman Sachs $150 million on August 14, 2025, receiving an initial 2,279,203 shares. The final number depends on the volume-weighted average price of Kemper’s stock. The ASR is expected to conclude within three months. Kemper is a specialized insurer with $13 billion in assets, serving 4.7 million policies.

Gold Reserve Ltd. is embroiled in a legal battle over the sale of PDV Holding, Inc. (PDVH), parent of CITGO. After a recommendation for Gold Reserve’s subsidiary to acquire PDVH for $7.382 billion, Red Tree Investments introduced a competing bid from Amber Energy. The Special Master paused proceedings, citing unauthorized disclosure, to reassess. Gold Reserve argues the Amber Energy bid is deficient and violates bidding procedures. The Court rescheduled a status conference amid the ongoing disputes, anticipating further arguments requiring judicial resolution.

Snail, Inc. unexpectedly postponed its Q2 2025 earnings conference call, citing “scheduling conflicts.” Analysts speculate this could be due to a pending strategic partnership/acquisition or disappointing preliminary results. The postponement has negatively impacted Snail, Inc.’s stock, causing shares to dip in after-hours trading. Investors are awaiting a rescheduled date and further clarification, anticipating increased scrutiny of the Q2 results for insights into the company’s future.

*Fortune* China released its “40 Under 40” list, recognizing promising young Chinese business leaders. DeepSeek founder Liang Wenfeng, previously known for High-Flyer Quant, tops the list, followed by leaders from Unitree Robotics, Pop Mart, Insta360, and Seres Group. DeepSeek’s emergence in the AI sector highlights China’s push for AI dominance. The list reflects a trend towards AI, healthcare, green technology, new consumerism, and intelligent manufacturing, mirroring China’s strategic priorities.