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Spanish economy shines in 2024 with 3.2% growth
Spanish economy shines in 2024 with 3.2% growth
by  AFP

The Spanish economy expanded 3.2 percent last year thanks to buoyant exports and consumption that have made it one of the fastest-growing developed countries, official data showed on Wednesday. Exports in the European Union's fourth-largest economy grew three percent year-on-year in the final quarter of 2024 and household consumption increased 3.7 percent.

Taiwan could help industry after Trump warns of chip tariffs
Taiwan could help industry after Trump warns of chip tariffs
by  AFP

Taiwan will consider supporting its domestic industry the government said Wednesday, after US President Donald Trump warned he will soon place tariffs on overseas-made semiconductor chips. Speaking at a Republican congressional retreat in Miami on Monday, Trump warned the United States will soon place tariffs on foreign-made semiconductor chips, pharmaceuticals and metals such as steel.

Dutch chip giant ASML's net profits dip in 2024
Dutch chip giant ASML's net profits dip in 2024
by  AFP

Dutch tech giant ASML, which sells cutting-edge machines to make semiconductor chips, reported a drop in annual net profits Wednesday, as geopolitical headwinds and the emergence of Chinese AI start-up DeepSeek disrupt the sector. The tech sector has also been buffeted by the sudden emergence of DeepSeek, a low-cost Chinese artificial intelligence chatbot to rival its US competitors.

Red tape and rare earths: EU 'compass' charts economic future
Red tape and rare earths: EU 'compass' charts economic future
by  AFP

Promising a "simplification shock", the EU will unveil a much-anticipated blueprint to revamp Europe's economic model on Wednesday, as the bloc struggles to keep up with China and the United States. Commission Vice-President Stephane Sejourne has promised "a simplification shock without affecting environmental targets".

Sony names new CEO in management reshuffle
Sony names new CEO in management reshuffle
by  AFP

Japanese electronics and entertainment giant Sony Group said Wednesday that it has promoted Hiroki Totoki to chief executive officer as part of a wider management reorganisation. It also announced "changes to its management structure to clarify management roles according to their responsibilities for the management of the entire Group or of each business".