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Rising US Trade Growth Amid Expanding China Deficit

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Rising US Trade Growth Amid Expanding China Deficit

Despite US President Donald Trump’s imposition of tariffs in 2025 to reduce America’s trade deficit, key Southeast Asian manufacturing hubs—Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam—paradoxically expanded their trade surplus with the United States.

Malaysia’s US trade surplus rose 45 percent to US$23.2 billion , driven by resilient exports of electronics, machinery, and processed food, benefiting from US tariff cuts and exemptions on critical items. Vietnam recorded the largest US surplus among regional nations, reaching a record US$133.8 billion , a 28 percent increase. Thailand also saw its US surplus climb 44 percent to US$51.3 billion , largely due to strong electronics exports. This unexpected growth followed initial tariff hits and subsequent negotiations, where countries like Malaysia secured reduced rates and exemptions, while also pledging not to impose export bans on critical minerals.

Widening China Deficits and Transshipment Risks

Concurrently with their expanded US surpluses, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam experienced a significant widening of their trade deficits with China in 2025. This trend suggests that Chinese goods, seeking to circumvent higher US tariffs, increasingly flowed into these Southeast Asian markets. Malaysia’s deficit with China jumped 62 percent to US$38.4 billion , while Thailand’s rose 50 percent to US$67.8 billion. Vietnam’s China deficit increased by 40 percent, reaching US$115 billion.

This dynamic has raised concerns among experts regarding potential transshipment risks , where Chinese firms might be routing products through these neighboring countries before re-exporting them to the US, effectively bypassing American tariffs and distorting trade flows.

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2026 Outlook: Projected Export Slowdown and Tariff Headwinds

Looking ahead, the trade landscape for Southeast Asia in 2026 is clouded by persistent uncertainty surrounding US tariff policies, with analysts forecasting a slowdown in exports . Trump’s continued protectionist rhetoric, including new tariffs on South Korean cars and threats against European nations, underscores the volatile environment.

Both the Thai Commerce Ministry and DBS for Malaysia have warned of expected slowdowns in exports as the clearer impacts of existing and newly introduced US tariffs manifest throughout the year. Experts like Archanun Kohpaiboon suggest the 2025 trend of widening US surpluses is unlikely to continue, anticipating that new US trade agreements will lead to increased imports from the US by partner countries, consequently reducing their trade surpluses and posing a significant risk to the overall ASEAN economy this year.

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Indian rupee to gauge sustenance of foreign flows, bonds back to supply worries

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Indian rupee to gauge sustenance of foreign flows, bonds back to supply worries
Indian foreign exchange traders will watch foreign portfolio inflows this week to see whether the rupee’s ‍rally, sparked by last Monday’s U.S.-India trade deal announcement, could extend meaningfully.

In fixed income, bond market investors will monitor demand-supply dynamics, ⁠which could prove key in determining the direction of bond yields.

The rupee closed at 90.6550 on Friday, up over 1% on the week.

The U.S. and India unveiled an interim trade framework on Friday, building on an initial announcement earlier last week. While the ‌breakthrough has lifted ‌sentiment on Indian assets, analysts remain cautious about its impact on portfolio flows.

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Foreign investors have net bought nearly $900 million of Indian stocks so far in ‌February, after pulling $4 billion last month, though they have sold $19 billion so far in 2025.


“While the currency (INR) could trade more stably for a while, especially if the drawdown in risk extends, spot upside is likely to prove limited,” analysts at Goldman Sachs said in a note.
In global markets, the focus this week will be on the release of ​key U.S. economic data alongside reactions to elections outcomes in Japan and ​Thailand. BONDS

The 10-year benchmark 6.48% 2035 yield settled at 6.7363% on Friday, notching its second consecutive weekly ‌rise, after the ‍Reserve Bank of India’s monetary policy decision.

The central bank held rates at 5.25% as ‍expected but offered no fresh liquidity support. Traders had expected tweaks to ‌liquidity rules to ease deposit tightness amid rising yields and credit growth.

Traders expect the yield to move in a 6.71%-6.80% range this week, with sellers in the driving seat. On Friday,

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With the budget and the central bank policy behind, the market focus will be on debt supply.

The MPC is set for a prolonged pause, with the RBI focusing on liquidity via open market purchases and FX swaps, though higher FY27 borrowing could add upward pressure on yields, said Puneet Pal, PGIM India MF.

India aims to gross borrow ‍a record 17.20 trillion rupees ($189.70 billion) next financial year, with net borrowing of 11.73 trillion rupees. India’s financial year starts in April and runs through March.

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra said ‍the focus on ⁠the size of gross borrowing could ⁠be misleading and that net borrowing provides a more accurate assessment of the fiscal position.

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“Looking at gross borrowing is not the correct way because there are many more redemptions next year than in the current year.”

KEY EVENTS: India January retail inflation – February 12, Thursday (4:00 p.m. IST) U.S. December import prices – February 10, Tuesday (7:00 p.m. IST)

December retail sales – February 10, Tuesday (7:00 p.m. IST) January non-farm payroll and unemployment rate – February 11, Wednesday (7:00 p.m. IST) Initial weekly jobless claims for week to February 7 – February 12, Thursday (7:00 p.m. IST) January existing home sales – February 7 – February 12, Thursday (8:30 p.m. IST)

January consumer price inflation – February 13, Friday (7:00 p.m. IST) (Reuters poll: 2.5%)

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Pfizer: ‘Hold’ As Patent Cliff Looms, Along With Need For Differentiating Factor (PFE)

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Pfizer: 'Hold' As Patent Cliff Looms, Along With Need For Differentiating Factor (PFE)

This article was written by

Terry Chrisomalis is a private investor in the Biotech sector with years of experience utilizing his Applied Science background to generate long term value from Healthcare. He is the author of the investing group Biotech Analysis Central which contains a library of 600+ Biotech investing articles, a model portfolio of 10+ small and mid-cap stocks with deep analysis for each, live chat, and a range of analysis and news reports to help Healthcare investors make informed decisions.

Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

Seeking Alpha’s Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.

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Reaction to Hong Kong tycoon Jimmy Lai’s 20 year sentence in security trial

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Reaction to Hong Kong tycoon Jimmy Lai’s 20 year sentence in security trial


Reaction to Hong Kong tycoon Jimmy Lai’s 20 year sentence in security trial

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Bad Bunny, Ricky Martin and Lady Gaga, Where to Watch?

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The Kansas City Chiefs take on the Philadelphia Eagles in Sunday's Super Bowl in New Orleans bidding to make history by clinching a third straight title

Bad Bunny’s historic Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show — featuring surprise appearances by Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin — captivated millions during the Feb. 8, 2026, championship between the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium. Fans who missed the live broadcast or want to relive the Puerto Rican superstar’s vibrant, mostly Spanish-language performance packed with cultural nods, a live wedding ceremony and high-energy collaborations can now access replays and highlights through multiple platforms.

The NFL logo appears on a goal post before the 2015 NFC Championship game between the Seattle Seahawks and the Green Bay Packers at CenturyLink Field in Seattle Jan. 18, 2015.
The NFL logo appears on a goal post before the 2015 NFC Championship game between the Seattle Seahawks and the Green Bay Packers at CenturyLink Field in Seattle Jan. 18, 2015.

The 13-minute set, which blended reggaeton hits with themes of joy, heritage and unity, made history as the first solo headlining halftime show by a Latino artist performing primarily in Spanish. Bad Bunny opened with “Tití Me Preguntó,” transformed the field into a lively Puerto Rican marketplace scene and delivered staples like “Yo Perreo Sola,” “Safaera,” “Monaco” and “El Apagón.” He passed his recent Grammy Award for Album of the Year to a young fan onstage, symbolizing inspiration for the next generation.

Lady Gaga joined for a Latin-infused rendition of her hit “Die with a Smile,” appearing in a striking blue gown during a wedding segment where a couple exchanged vows. The pop icon danced alongside Bad Bunny, adding star power and blending her vocals with the reggaeton rhythms. Ricky Martin, another Puerto Rican legend, made a heartfelt cameo performing “Lo Que Le Pasó a Hawaii,” honoring generational ties in Latin music and rallying the crowd with messages of pride and autonomy.

Additional cameos included actors Pedro Pascal and Jessica Alba dancing in the market set, along with Karol G, Cardi B and influencer Alix Earle adding to the festive atmosphere. The performance closed with Bad Bunny naming countries across the Americas before declaring “God Bless America,” bridging cultures in a unifying finale.

For replays, the primary official source is Peacock, NBC’s streaming platform, which simulcast the live broadcast and now offers on-demand access to the full halftime show. Peacock Premium subscribers ($7.99/month ad-supported or $13.99/month ad-free Premium Plus) can watch the complete performance in high quality, including 4K HDR where supported. The halftime segment is available shortly after the game ends, often within hours, alongside other Super Bowl LX content like pregame shows and highlights.

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NBC’s official channels and partners provide additional viewing options. The NFL’s YouTube channel and NFL.com typically upload the full halftime show within days, though as of early Feb. 9, 2026, the complete performance had not yet appeared on the main NFL YouTube page. Clips and highlights, including key moments with Gaga and Martin, circulate widely on YouTube, with fan uploads and official snippets offering quick access. Search for “Bad Bunny Super Bowl halftime full” or specific segments like “Bad Bunny Lady Gaga Super Bowl” yields numerous results.

Live TV streaming services that carried NBC during the game — including YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, DirecTV Stream and Sling TV (Blue package) — often provide on-demand replays for subscribers. YouTube TV, for example, offers cloud DVR storage of the broadcast, allowing users to rewind to the halftime portion. Hulu + Live TV includes similar DVR features bundled with Disney+ and ESPN content.

For international viewers or those seeking free alternatives, over-the-air NBC broadcasts (via antenna) captured the show live, but replays depend on local affiliates or streaming. In some markets, free trials from services like DirecTV Stream or YouTube TV enable access without immediate cost, though users should cancel before trials end to avoid charges.
Social media platforms host abundant user-shared clips. On X (formerly Twitter), TikTok and Instagram, short videos of standout moments — such as the wedding, Gaga’s entrance and Martin’s collaboration — trend heavily. Official Roc Nation and NFL accounts posted highlights, including the national anthem performance and pregame events, with links directing to full content.

The show’s impact extends beyond views. Critics lauded its inclusivity, queer-positive elements and celebration of Latino heritage, calling it “legendary” and “unforgettable.” It sparked widespread discussion about representation in mainstream American events, with many praising Bad Bunny’s bold choice to perform mostly in Spanish.

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As replays become more widely available, Peacock remains the go-to for the highest-quality, official full version. Fans eager to experience or rewatch the cultural milestone — complete with Gaga’s powerful vocals, Martin’s nostalgic energy and Bad Bunny’s infectious rhythms — have convenient options across streaming and social platforms in the days following Super Bowl Sunday.

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CBH confirms grain harvest records

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CBH confirms grain harvest records

Records have tumbled at Western Australia’s bulk grain handling co-operative as another bumper harvest wraps up.

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Thailand’s Bhumjaithai prepares for coalition talks after big election win

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Thailand’s Bhumjaithai prepares for coalition talks after big election win


Thailand’s Bhumjaithai prepares for coalition talks after big election win

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Positive Breakout: These 12 stocks close above their 200 DMAs

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The Economic Times

In the Nifty500 pack, 12 stocks’ closing prices crossed above their 200 DMA (Daily Moving Averages) on February 06, 2026, according to StockEdge.com’s technical scan data. The 200-day daily moving average (DMA) is used by traders as a key indicator for determining the overall trend in a particular stock. As long as a stock is priced above the 200-day SMA on the daily timeframe, it is generally considered to be in an overall uptrend. Take a look:

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Seas the future for Bass family as lure of fishing business bites

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Seas the future for Bass family as lure of fishing business bites

Commercial fishing has proved a powerful attraction to those with the patience and financial muscle to ride the sector’s waves.

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Global Supply Chains at Risk as the U.S. Proposes 25% Tariff on AI Chips

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Global Supply Chains at Risk as the U.S. Proposes 25% Tariff on AI Chips

The U.S. will impose a 25% tariff on certain advanced AI chips from January 2026 to boost domestic manufacturing, impacting the global semiconductor supply chain and prompting strategic adjustments in Thailand’s electronics sector.

U.S. Imposes 25% Tariff on Advanced AI Chips

The United States will enforce a 25% import tariff on certain advanced AI chips, effective January 15, 2026, under Section 232. This applies globally, including imports from Thailand. The tariff targets high-performance processors such as Nvidia’s H200 and AMD’s MI325X, aiming to strengthen domestic chip manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. Some exemptions apply, including chips used in U.S. data centers, research, and startups, which will face a 0% tariff initially.

Global and Thailand’s Semiconductor Industry Impact

The tariff increase is expected to disrupt the global semiconductor supply chain, raising production costs and encouraging investment to return to the U.S. This could cause ripple effects in Thailand, particularly in electronic exports and component supply chains to economies like China and Taiwan. Although Thailand’s direct exports of advanced chips to the U.S. remain limited, indirect impacts and investment volatility in the region may occur.

Strategic Response for Thai Electronics Operators

Thai electronics businesses must quickly adjust strategies to mitigate risks from the tariff changes. Diversifying markets towards ASEAN, Japan, and Taiwan and enhancing competitiveness are key. Long-term efforts should focus on workforce skills development and boosting R&D to increase upstream chip production capabilities. Collaborative public and private sector initiatives are crucial to sustaining Thailand’s role in the global supply chain amid ongoing technological competition.

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Hong Kong tycoon Jimmy Lai sentenced to total of 20 years in national security trial

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Hong Kong tycoon Jimmy Lai sentenced to total of 20 years in national security trial


Hong Kong tycoon Jimmy Lai sentenced to total of 20 years in national security trial

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