Malaysia posted 6% GDP growth in Q2, powered by a 7.5% surge in manufacturing driven by chipmaking and 6.6% construction growth tied to data center expansion.
The Southeast Asian nation is capitalizing on global demand for semiconductor production and AI infrastructure. Manufacturing growth of 7.5% reflects Malaysia's expanded role in the chipmaking supply chain, while construction expanded 6.6% as major data center projects accelerate across the country.
The dual expansion positions Malaysia as an emerging hub for artificial intelligence infrastructure investment. Data center development is attracting significant capital as companies seek alternatives to established tech hubs.
These sectors represent Malaysia's strategic pivot toward high-value manufacturing and digital infrastructure. The growth rates outpace the overall 6% GDP expansion, indicating concentrated strength in technology-related industries.
The economy benefits from both established semiconductor expertise and new opportunities in AI-driven data infrastructure, suggesting sustained momentum in these sectors could continue supporting growth through the remainder of 2024.
Apple has revised its iPhone upgrade program, lowering monthly lease costs for users who prefer renting over purchasing. The program allows customers to upgrade to new models annually.
BlackBerry achieved a positive cash position in Q1, marking its first cash-positive first quarter since 2017. The turnaround was driven by its QNX and Secusmart software divisions.
Shanghai's Star 50 index has gained 29% in 2026, driven by Beijing's tech initiatives and investor enthusiasm. However, its P/E ratio exceeds 150—more than four times that of the Nasdaq 100.
Joshua Kushner published his first formal investor letter for Thrive Capital, disclosing that the firm's 2022 early-stage fund has grown to $3.7 billion in value. The $516 million fund made early investments in OpenAI, SpaceX, and Anduril Industries.