Netflix offers $72 billion for Warner Bros assets
Netflix has made an all-cash offer of $72 billion to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery's streaming and studio assets at $27.75 per share, replacing its previous cash-and-stock proposal. The boards of both companies have unanimously approved the deal, which aims to expedite a shareholder vote expected before April, amid ongoing pressure from Paramount, which is pursuing its own hostile takeover attempt. Warner Bros. has urged its shareholders to reject Paramount's bid, citing risks associated with the rival offer.
Berkshire Hathaway plans to sell 27.5% of Kraft Heinz
Berkshire Hathaway, under the leadership of Warren Buffett's successor, is considering selling 27.5% of its 325 million shares in Kraft Heinz, according to a recent filing. This potential divestment may indicate a shift in the conglomerate's investment strategy as it reassesses its portfolio in light of current market conditions.
UK inflation rises to 3.4% in December 2025
UK inflation rose to 3.4% in December 2025, up from 3.2% in November, driven by increases in tobacco and transport costs, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The rise marks the first increase in six months, with air fares surging by 28.6% due to heightened travel demand during the holiday season. Chancellor Rachel Reeves emphasized her commitment to reducing the cost of living, highlighting measures such as energy bill reductions and wage increases.
China's Manufacturing Sector Sustains Economic Growth Amid Challenges
China's manufacturing sector, which accounted for approximately 24.7 percent of the country's GDP, continues to drive economic growth despite a widening divide with consumer-sensitive sectors. In 2025, China contributed around 30 percent of global manufacturing added value, maintaining its status as the world's largest manufacturing powerhouse for 16 consecutive years. The sector's resilience is bolstered by significant foreign investment and government support, highlighting its critical role in both the national and global economy.
Humans& raises $480 million at $4.48 billion valuation
AI startup Humans& has raised $480 million in a seed funding round, achieving a valuation of $4.48 billion. The round was led by SV Angel and included participation from Nvidia, Jeff Bezos, and Alphabet's VC arm, GV, among others. Founded by former researchers from major AI labs, Humans& aims to develop human-centric AI tools for communication and collaboration, with a product launch expected early this year.
Tesla to Begin Slow Production of Cybercab and Optimus
Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced that production of the Cybercab and the Optimus robot will begin at an 'agonizingly slow' pace, with expectations for a significant increase in output later. Musk noted that the early production rate will be hindered by the complexity of new parts and manufacturing steps, but he anticipates that the ramp-up will eventually lead to faster production. The Cybercab, a two-seater designed without manual controls, is expected to enter volume production in 2026, while Optimus output is hoped to commence towards the end of the year.
Global Markets React to Japan Bond Sell-Off
Markets faced heightened volatility following a significant sell-off in Japan's $7.6 trillion bond market, with the 30-year yield reaching a record high of 3.85%. The S&P 500 Index dropped 2%, while the TSX Composite fell 1%, as investors sought safe havens like gold, which hit a new record above US$4,700 an ounce. This turmoil coincided with escalating geopolitical tensions over Greenland, exacerbated by U.S. President Donald Trump's threats to pursue control of the territory.
