China
AI
Rocky and Grace: What Project Hail Mary Gets Right About the Limits of Intelligence
Andy Weir's blockbuster rests on a quietly radical thesis: that all intelligent civilizations hit the same ceiling, discover the same technologies, and face the same existential threats. Two writers argue about what this means for AI.
Geopolitics
Petrol at $2.40? No wonder BYD's phones are ringing off the hook
Soaring fuel prices from the Strait of Hormuz blockade are driving a spike in EV sales. BYD and GWM report significant increases as Chinese brands now dominate Australia's top 10 sellers.
Geopolitics
The $2.5 Billion Back Door: Why the Super Micro Scandal Surprised No One in Taiwan
Washington calls it a conspiracy. The Asian supply chain calls it a premium service tier. The indictment of Wally Liaw exposes the reality of the chip blockade.
AI
Russia Moves to Ban ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini Under New AI Laws
Moscow's digital ministry publishes sweeping regulations that would restrict foreign AI tools transferring Russian user data abroad. Western companies face a familiar ultimatum.
Geopolitics
Scientists Engineer Probiotic Bacteria to Hunt Tumours and Make Cancer Drugs
Researchers at Shandong University have modified common gut bacteria to infiltrate tumours and produce an FDA-approved cancer drug directly where it is needed. Mouse trials show promising results.
Geopolitics
8 Electric Vehicles Under $50,000 Available in Australia
Affordable EVs are finally here. These models offer the best value for Australian buyers.
Geopolitics
Super Micro Co-Founder Charged With Smuggling $2.5 Billion in AI Chips to China
Federal prosecutors allege a systematic scheme involving dummy servers, falsified documents, and Southeast Asian shell companies to evade US export controls.
Taiwan
Taiwan Rejects China's Energy Security 'Reunification' Offer Amid Middle East War
Beijing offered to help Taiwan with energy supplies if it accepted reunification. Taipei called it 'cynical manipulation'.
Technology
Alibaba Cuts 34% of Workforce in 2025 as Chinese Tech Giant Doubles Down on AI
The company disposed of peripheral holdings including Sun Art and Intime to focus on cloud computing and artificial intelligence. Net income fell 66%.
