🔹 Introduction
Today brings crucial insights into blockchain materials, AI chip policy, and cyber risk—showing how supply chains, geopolitics, and security intersect in tech’s expanding influence on global industries and infrastructure.
🧠 Critical Minerals & EVs
China’s Rare Earth Magnet Exports to U.S. Surge 660% in June
China shipped 353 tonnes of rare earth magnets to the U.S. in June, a 660% jump from May following a trade agreement that eased export restrictions. These magnets are essential for electric vehicles and wind turbines. Global shipments rose 157.5% month-over-month, though still remain 38% below June 2024 levels. The surge is expected to continue into July as more exporters obtain licenses.
🇨🇳 Nvidia & China Policy
U.S. Lawmakers Criticize Resumed H20 Chip Sales
Republicans, led by Rep. John Moolenaar, object to the Commerce Department's decision to allow Nvidia’s H20 AI chips to be exported to China—warning it could aid Chinese military AI capabilities. Nvidia defends the move, citing national economic and innovation benefits.
Production Hurdles May Delay China H20 Supply
Despite resuming export permissions, Nvidia faces manufacturing delays. TSMC reallocated H20 production lines after the April ban, which may take up to nine months to reverse. Nvidia is exploring a new RTX Pro GPU variant to serve China instead.
🌏 Market Stability Amid Policy Flux
Asian Shares Move Higher; Investors Eye U.S. Tech Earnings
Asian markets are holding steady, buoyed by U.S. futures and minimal reaction to political changes in Japan. With upcoming earnings from Alphabet, Tesla, and IBM and optimism around AI chip rollouts, indices are rallying ahead of Q2 reports.
🛡 Cybersecurity Alert
137 Vulnerabilities Fixed in July Patch Tuesday
Microsoft addressed 137 vulnerabilities in July, including one publicly discussed SQL Server zero-day (CVE‑2025‑49719) and 14 critical flaws. Organizations are urged to deploy updates promptly to prevent exploitation.
🧭 Today’s At-a-Glance Table
| Theme | Key Insight |
|---|---|
| Critical Minerals | China’s magnet exports spike post-trade deal |
| AI Chips & Policy | U.S. export reversal draws both support & concern; supply delays loom |
| Market Outlook | Asian markets steady, global tech earnings in focus |
| Cybersecurity | Patch priority—critical SQL Server flaw and broader vulnerabilities addressed |
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