International News 24/09

September 24, 2024 No. 162

China has decided to maintain its interest rate.

In a move contrary to market expectations, China has opted to maintain its benchmark interest rates in the wake of the US Federal Reserve's recent rate cut. However, experts anticipate that additional stimulus measures will be introduced to bolster the ailing economy, capitalising on the Federal Reserve's accommodative stance while avoiding any adverse effects on the yuan. The one-year base lending rate (LPR) will remain at 3.35%, while the five-year LPR will remain at 3.85%. The majority of market participants anticipated a rate cut, and it is probable that a rate cut will form part of a larger policy package currently under review by senior officials in China. The data and expectations indicate a need for a rate cut. A reduction in rates on existing mortgage loans would result in a significant reduction in LPRs in the fourth quarter.

https://internasional.kontan.co.id/news/china-pertahankan-suku-bunga-acuan-pasar-berharap-ada-pemangkasan-segera
 

Qualcomm has approached Intel with a view to a potential acquisition.

Qualcomm has initiated discussions with Intel regarding a potential acquisition of the struggling chipmaker. Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon is personally engaged in the negotiations, exploring a range of potential transaction structures for Qualcomm, including the possibility of acquiring a portion of Intel's design operations. The discussions are currently at an early stage, and Qualcomm has not yet made a formal offer. Should the deal proceed, it is likely to be subject to scrutiny from antitrust regulators in the US, China and Europe. In order to gain regulatory approval, Qualcomm may be required to sell part of Intel's business. The proposed acquisition would represent a significant transaction in the technology sector, occurring at a challenging time for Intel, whose share price has declined by nearly 60% over the course of this year. The funding for the bid and the handling of Intel's chip contract manufacturing business are still undecided.

https://internasional.kontan.co.id/news/qualcomm-mendekati-intel-jajaki-potensi-akuisisi

 

The Chinese government has frozen the assets of nine US companies in response to sanctions imposed by the United States.

China has announced the imposition of asset freezes on nine US companies with military ties in response to the sale of US arms to Taiwan. The objective of this action is to exert further pressure on the United States to cease the sale of weapons to the island. China has repeatedly urged the United States to refrain from establishing formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, which Beijing claims as part of its territory. The asset freeze affects companies including Sierra Nevada Corporation and Stick Rudder Enterprises LLC. China has issued a directive prohibiting organisations and individuals in China from conducting transactions with these companies. A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry has urged the US to cease arming Taiwan and to refrain from supporting its independence. They have also warned that such actions could have a detrimental impact on peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. China has previously taken action against several companies, including those within the Lockheed Martin group, for selling weapons to Taiwan. Despite Taipei's rejection of Beijing's claims, China has increased its military and political pressure on Taiwan in recent years.

https://internasional.kontan.co.id/news/gara-gara-masalah-ini-china-bekukan-aset-9-perusahaan-as