News related to
Investment

The IMF forecast regional expansion of 4.8 per cent in 2026, compared with 5 per cent last year, followed by a further slowdown to 4.4 per cent in 2027. Its latest estimate for this year nevertheless represents a substantial upgrade from the 4.4 per cent projected in April.

The revised outlook reflects sharply contrasting pressures across Asia. Demand for semiconductors, data centres and other technology equipment has strengthened exports and investment, while higher energy costs linked to the Middle East conflict have squeezed economies dependent on imported fuel.

The fund warned that a reversal in AI investment or technology share valuations could undermine growth disproportionately because Asian manufacturers occupy central positions in global electronics supply chains. Higher sovereign borrowing costs and prolonged disruption to energy supplies present additional threats.

Emerging and developing Asian economies are projected to grow 5.1 per cent this year, down from 5.6 per cent in 2025, before slowing to 4.9 per cent next year. Advanced regional economies are expected to expand 3.2 per cent in 2026, compared with 2.5 per cent last year, then moderate to 2 per cent in 2027.

The IMF upgraded forecasts for South Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong, where demand linked to AI infrastructure has lifted manufacturing and exports. China and India also received upward revisions, although countries facing higher inflation without equivalent technology gains have experienced weaker growth projections.

Krishna Srinivasan, director of the IMF’s Asia and Pacific Department, said at the fund’s annual meetings in Bangkok that technology exports had accelerated sharply during the first half of 2026. Demand for chips and investment in data centres were important contributors, alongside stronger trade within the region.

He said economies had responded to energy disruptions by diversifying fuel suppliers, reducing consumption, increasing alternative energy use and drawing down inventories. Governments had also introduced measures intended to contain inflation, protect incomes and prevent supply shortages.

Those adjustments have not eliminated the unequal effects of the energy shock. Bangladesh, Cambodia and Laos are among the fuel-importing economies with limited direct exposure to the AI investment boom and comparatively restricted financial resources to absorb further pressure.

The IMF urged monetary authorities to maintain price stability as expensive energy threatens to push inflation expectations higher. It cautioned that central banks could face difficult decisions if weaker growth coincides with persistent price pressures, particularly where currencies and capital flows respond to changes in global interest rates.

Fiscal policy should focus on vulnerable households and businesses rather than costly blanket subsidies, the fund indicated. Elevated public debt and higher bond yields reduce governments’ ability to sustain broad support programmes without increasing financial risks.

The regional assessment comes as investors reassess the durability of spending on AI infrastructure. Asian technology shares suffered steep losses on Thursday, with South Korea’s benchmark stock index falling nearly 8 per cent and Japan’s Nikkei dropping about 5 per cent amid concerns over US inflation and borrowing costs.

The fund also identified concentrated stock market valuations and increased investor leverage as potential sources of instability. A sharp repricing could affect financing conditions and confidence even in economies where orders for technology products remain comparatively strong.

Separately, the IMF expects China’s growth to slow from 5 per cent in 2025 to 4.5 per cent this year and 4 per cent in 2027. It has called for stronger domestic demand and fiscal measures to counter deflationary pressures, rather than continued reliance on external sales.

Beyond financial markets, the fund highlighted employment challenges associated with technological change. Srinivasan said its research found employer demand for jobs more exposed to AI had declined by 10 per cent, although that effect appeared to have stabilised as employers sought workers with relevant skills.

The IMF recommended addressing youth unemployment and skills mismatches, strengthening social protection and improving energy security through diversification and renewable supplies. It also supported deeper regional trade integration as governments seek to preserve access to markets despite tariff barriers.

The regional outlook additionally identified a severe El Niño episode as a potential disruption to agriculture, fisheries and hydropower generation, with possible consequences for food and electricity prices across vulnerable economies, particularly in countries heavily reliant on imported energy.

Three-year partnership celebrates excellence, ambition and Botswana’s remarkable development story through natural diamonds.

LONDON, UK/ GABORONE, BOTSWANA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2026 – De Beers Group and the Government of the Republic of Botswana today announced the extension of De Beers’ partnership with Olympic champion and Botswana sporting icon Letsile Tebogo. Originally launched in January 2025, when Tebogo was appointed a De Beers Global Ambassador, the partnership has now been expanded into a three-year programme of work between De Beers and the Government of Botswana as part of their wider collaboration to support natural diamond demand and promote Botswana’s unique contribution to the diamond industry. The extended partnership will help shine a light on the progress Botswana has achieved through diamonds as the nation celebrates its ‘diamond’ anniversary of 60 years since independence.

Building on the success of the initial partnership, the relationship will be anchored in a global storytelling platform themed “The Road to LA28”, following Tebogo’s journey as he prepares for the next chapter of his extraordinary career. The collaboration will spotlight the transformative role that natural diamonds play in creating opportunities, supporting communities and driving long-term prosperity in Botswana.

Letsile Tebogo said: “My success story is connected to Botswana’s diamond heritage. The resources that built our schools and sports facilities helped create opportunities for young athletes like me. This partnership goes beyond sport – it is about showcasing how natural resources can drive positive change and create pathways for the next generation.”

In 2024, Tebogo made history when he won Olympic gold in the men’s 200 metres in a time of 19.46 seconds, becoming the first African athlete to win the event and the first Motswana to claim an Olympic gold medal. His achievement captivated audiences worldwide and cemented his status as one of the most exciting talents in global sport.

Since then, Tebogo has continued to establish himself among the world’s elite sprinters. Named World Athletics Men’s Athlete of the Year in 2024, he has remained a leading force on the international circuit, delivering standout performances across global competitions and inspiring a new generation of athletes throughout Africa.

The partnership reflects the powerful connection between Tebogo’s personal journey and Botswana’s development story. Over more than five decades, Botswana’s diamond resources have helped support investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure and sport, creating opportunities for generations of Batswana and helping cultivate talents such as Tebogo. Like a natural diamond formed under pressure and transformed into something exceptional, Tebogo’s rise from Botswana to Olympic glory embodies resilience, determination and the fulfilment of potential.

The Road to LA28

As the face of the campaign, Tebogo will feature in content and storytelling initiatives that explore the dedication, sacrifice and support systems behind elite performance. Building on the Talent Unearthed platform, the campaign will connect sporting excellence with Botswana’s broader story of opportunity, progress and possibility.

Al Cook, CEO of De Beers Group, said: Anything worth having takes time, effort and pressure, whether that’s winning Olympic gold, the growth of a nation or the formation of a natural diamond. We are proud to extend our partnership with Letsile Tebogo, showcasing how Botswana nurtures its human talent just as carefully as it develops its precious natural resources. As Botswana’s approaches its 60th ‘diamond’ anniversary of independence, its people and its diamonds have never shone more brightly.

Honourable Bogolo Kenewendo, Minister of Minerals and Energy, said: “As we celebrate Botswana’s Diamond Jubilee, we have an opportunity to reflect on a remarkable national journey. From independence to today, natural diamonds have helped transform our country and create opportunities for generations of Batswana. Letsile’s rise to Olympic champion is a powerful example of what can be achieved when talent meets opportunity. Through this partnership, the Government of Botswana, De Beers Group and Letsile Tebogo will share Botswana’s story with global audiences while highlighting the enduring value and positive impact of natural diamonds.”

Hashtag: #DeBeersGroup #LetsileTebogo #ADiamondisForever #BuildingForever #NaturalDiamonds #Diamonds #創守永恒 #天然鑽石 #鑽石

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About De Beers Group

Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers London and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair. De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology services. De Beers Group is committed to ‘Building Forever,’ a holistic and integrated approach to sustainability that underpins our efforts to create meaningful impact for the people and places where our diamonds are discovered. Building Forever focuses on three key areas where, through collaborations and partnerships around the globe, we have an enhanced ability to drive positive impact; Livelihoods, Climate and Nature. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo American plc group. For further information, visit www.debeersgroup.com.

About The Republic of Botswana

Botswana is a peaceful and stable country in the heart of Southern Africa, renowned for its diamonds, spectacular wildlife, rich culture and breath-taking landscapes. In 2026, Botswana celebrates 60 years of independence – its Diamond Jubilee, marking six decades of nation-building, resilience and progress. Since independence in 1966, the country has made significant strides in economic and social development, with diamond revenues contributing to education, healthcare, infrastructure and improved livelihoods. Beyond diamonds, Botswana is a world-class tourism destination, home to the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Central Kalahari Game Reserve and Makgadikgadi Pans, offering unforgettable wildlife and safari experiences. The country is also celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality and strong traditions, including the internationally recognised Tswana way of life. As Botswana looks to the future, it is embracing economic diversification, investment, innovation, renewable energy and sustainable tourism, creating new opportunities for both local and international partners. Sixty years on, Botswana stands proud as a nation of peace, natural beauty, valuable resources and opportunity—building on its remarkable past while confidently shaping a prosperous future.

Major announcements and launches

• €250 million Women’s Health Initiative in Bangladesh: The Government of Bangladesh and the European Investment Bank outlined plans to improve women’s health and strengthen district hospitals and critical care services.
• US$100 million commitment to prevent stillbirths: The Gates Foundation and Wellcome Leap announced a joint commitment to Uzima: A Stillbirth Prevention Program, aiming to halve stillbirth rates within a decade in selected countries.
• Lancet Commission on 21st Century Global Threats to Health: The Commission identified two potential threats to human existence: malicious use of artificial intelligence and nuclear conflict.
• Wellcome Global Monitor 2026: Wellcome presented global findings showing that trust in science has declined compared with pre-COVID-19 levels.
• Gallup’s State of the World’s Emotional Health 2026 Report: Gallup and the World Health Summit presented findings on emotional health and well-being, revealing a complex relationship between social media use and well-being that varies by age, time spent online, and geographic location.
• €10 million German contribution to maternal and child health: Germany pledged €10 million to the Global Financing Facility’s Sustainable Commodities Access Program to improve access to family planning and maternal, newborn, and child health products.

The World Health Summit is the leading platform for global health. It brings together stakeholders from politics, science, the private sector, and civil society to set the agenda for a healthier future.

Hashtag: #WorldHealthSummit

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

The company presented the programme on Tuesday as a proposed family of artificial intelligence-piloted aircraft intended for surveillance, strike and coordinated combat missions. Its smaller FWD Supreme Lite has completed taxi trials, founder Suhas Tejaskanda said, but no first-flight date has been confirmed.

The unveiling marks a further stage in the company’s effort to move from aircraft designs to flight-tested hardware. A static prototype demonstrates the proposed configuration rather than operational performance, and the aircraft’s advertised speed, range and combat capabilities remain development targets.

Flying Wedge envisages two principal versions. The approximately 250kg Supreme Lite is intended to test autonomous navigation, flight control and cooperation between aircraft. The larger Supreme Heavy is designed for longer-range intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations, precision strikes and missions conducted alongside other aircraft.

Company specifications for the heavier aircraft describe a flying-wing configuration measuring roughly 10 metres across, with an internal weapons bay and a payload of about 350kg. The proposed maximum speed is Mach 0.8 to 0.85, with cruising speeds of 500 to 600 kilometres an hour.

Flying Wedge also projects a range exceeding 1,500km and endurance of more than two hours, supported by satellite communications. Those figures have not been validated through publicly documented flight trials of the Supreme Heavy. Its propulsion and systems integration will be crucial to determining whether the design can meet them.

The company calls its operating concept the Mobbing Doctrine. It envisages groups of autonomous aircraft exchanging information and coordinating decisions during missions, rather than relying exclusively on individual high-value combat platforms. Under the concept, surviving aircraft would continue assigned tasks if others were lost.

Such coordination would require dependable communications, reliable target identification and systems capable of operating when links are disrupted. Flying Wedge says artificial intelligence will support navigation, sensor processing and mission execution, although the extent of human oversight during weapons employment has not been established in publicly available technical documentation.

Tejaskanda has described affordability and operational relevance as central aims of the programme. The company is also seeking foreign participation in an India-led development and manufacturing initiative called Operation Triple Seven. Details of binding investment commitments, production arrangements and customer orders have not been publicly established.

A Anbarasu, director general for acquisition at the Ministry of Defence, linked the initiative to the government’s emphasis on joint operations, domestic manufacturing and innovation. His remarks signalled policy interest in such technologies but did not amount to confirmation of a procurement contract or an operational requirement for the aircraft.

Flying Wedge has outlined plans to increase domestically sourced components and has identified the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s Manik engine as a potential propulsion option. The company has indicated that the proportion of locally sourced content could depend substantially on the engine eventually selected.

Its proposed navigation technologies include visual odometry, which estimates an aircraft’s movement by comparing successive camera images. The approach could supplement conventional satellite navigation where signals are degraded or unavailable, although its effectiveness in military conditions would need to be demonstrated through testing.

The Supreme programme joins international efforts to develop uncrewed aircraft capable of cooperating with piloted fighters or carrying out assigned missions autonomously. Such projects differ widely in maturity, from conceptual designs and ground tests to aircraft already conducting experimental flights. Their development does not establish that fully autonomous combat operations have been approved for routine military use.

Flying Wedge previously released footage of the Supreme Lite technology demonstrator undergoing development and ground preparations. Its earlier target of a first flight during the third quarter of 2026 has passed, making completion of taxi trials the clearest publicly stated milestone ahead of airborne testing.

The company separately develops Kaalbhairav unmanned aircraft and smaller interception and loitering-munition systems. Those products form part of its broader portfolio but should not be confused with the Supreme fighter programme, whose larger aircraft has yet to demonstrate its stated performance in flight.

Flying Wedge operates from Bengaluru’s Electronic City area. Its published product portfolio includes surveillance aircraft, interceptor drones and compact loitering munitions, alongside the proposed Supreme family. The company also lists agricultural unmanned aircraft among its products, reflecting its involvement in civilian applications.

The regulator on Tuesday imposed restrictions covering approximately HK$4.7 billion ($599 million) in assets held through 31 brokerages, while suspending trading in Sichuan Baicha Baidao Industrial Co over concerns that its share offering may have been rigged.

The enforcement action targets two suspected syndicates linked to three listings. Investigators are examining arrangements allegedly designed to create misleading impressions of investor demand and potentially divert proceeds from companies entering the stock market.

The SFC simultaneously issued detailed guidance identifying warning signs, including substantial loans to investors, undisclosed agreements, unusual last-minute subscriptions and concentrated share allocations involving parties connected to listing applicants.

Julia Leung, the commission’s chief executive officer, warned that financial intermediaries must challenge suspicious transactions rather than accept explanations that fail to withstand scrutiny.

The regulator said most market participants complied with applicable rules but stressed that misconduct by a minority could undermine confidence in Hong Kong’s capital markets.

The largest restriction concerns assets worth approximately HK$4.4 billion held through six brokerages and linked to suspected activities surrounding the listings of Baicha and Cloudbreak Pharma.

A separate restriction covers approximately HK$285 million associated with the listing of Tianju Dihe (Suzhou) Technology, involving accounts maintained through 29 brokerages.

Some brokerages received notices covering more than one investigation. The commission emphasised that the brokers themselves were not investigation targets and that restrictions did not affect their other clients.

Michael Duignan, the SFC’s executive director of enforcement, said the measures had significantly disrupted two suspected syndicates potentially involved in IPO manipulation.

The commission has not established criminal wrongdoing in the cases, and investigations remain under way.

Among the practices attracting scrutiny are substantial payments, loans or investments made by newly listed companies to investors or related parties shortly after prospectuses are finalised.

Such transactions can raise questions about whether investors genuinely committed their own capital or received financial support linked to their participation.

The regulator expects sponsoring banks to ensure that prospectuses disclose material financial developments and provide investors with complete, accurate information.

Another warning concerns investors whose subscription commitments appear connected to business cooperation, investment agreements or continuing commercial relationships with company executives.

Bankers have been instructed to investigate unusual orders and determine whether apparent independent investors have undisclosed relationships with issuers.

The commission also identified excessive involvement by listing applicants in selecting investors or directing share allocations as potentially suspicious.

Particular attention should be paid when allocations depart from agreed marketing strategies or favour investors who opened brokerage accounts shortly before an offering.

Large subscription orders submitted immediately before bookbuilding closes represent another warning, especially when their size appears inconsistent with an investor’s financial resources.

The watchdog highlighted arrangements involving derivatives or guaranteed returns that conceal the identities of investors ultimately benefiting from allocated shares.

Multiple accounts controlled by a single party can similarly disguise concentrated ownership and create an exaggerated impression of broad market participation.

Undisclosed commitments negotiated before an IPO are another concern, particularly where companies maintain offering sizes and timetables despite insufficient genuine investor demand.

The commission warned that questionable arrangements could extend beyond flotation dates into trading activities intended to support share prices, maintain market capitalisation or generate artificial turnover.

Such practices could involve concentrated holdings among designated investors and undisclosed understandings governing subsequent transactions.

The intervention comes during a strong year for Hong Kong fundraising, supported by listings from mainland Chinese technology companies, including businesses associated with artificial intelligence.

Regulatory concerns have also extended to the quality of listing applications. The SFC disclosed that 65 applications had been suspended during the first nine months of 2026 because of deficiencies in sponsors’ work.

Hong Kong authorities have been tightening scrutiny of disclosure standards and the resources investment banks devote to preparing flotation documents.

The shorter interval between IPO pricing and trading has added pressure on banks to verify investor identities and investigate questionable orders before allocations are completed.

The SFC nevertheless expects intermediaries to undertake reasonable verification procedures and reject subscriptions that fail regulatory requirements.

The commission has separately proposed stronger enforcement mechanisms targeting corporate misconduct, including additional measures addressing problematic listing transactions.

Baicha, whose trading was suspended on October 13, raised approximately $330 million through its April 2024 flotation. Its shares fell 27 per cent on their trading debut.

Yanliang Miao, Chief Economist and Senior Managing Director of CICC, shared his insights on China’s economic transformation and the evolving international monetary order in his opening remarks and keynote speech. He noted that understanding China requires a global rebalancing perspective, considering both the dynamism of emerging industries and the implications of the transition from old to new growth engines for jobs, incomes and demand. Alongside its green and digital transitions, China is also working toward a growth model supported by higher household incomes and services-led consumption. Turning to the international monetary order, he observed that shifts in the global economy, trade networks and financial technology are driving the evolution toward a more diversified international monetary system. Economic and trade strength do not automatically translate into international currency status: institutional credibility and the depth and breadth of financial markets remain central to understanding this evolution and the internationalization of the renminbi.

Huimin Wu, Executive Dean of CICC Global Institute and Deputy Head of Research Department at CICC, noted that, as discussed in The New Pattern of Dual Circulation, a book jointly published this year by CICC Global Institute and CICC Research Department, China’s economy is entering a new stage of development. Its trade and outward investment are undergoing a paradigm shift, while emerging industries are becoming increasingly important drivers of growth in the global economy. These changes are both part of the broader process of global economic rebalancing and deeply shaped by it, giving rise to a new pattern of interaction between China and the global economy.

The forum brought together experts and industry representatives from institutions including the International Monetary Fund (IMF), ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO), Shanghai Advanced Institute of Finance (SAIF) at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, National University of Singapore, ICBC Standard Bank, Wood Mackenzie, and NSQ Capital. Discussions focused on the transformations of China’s trade and outward investment and their global implications, as well as the prospects for emerging industries such as innovative pharmaceuticals, green energy, and artificial intelligence.

This marked the first time the CGI Quarterly Macro Forum was held in Southeast Asia. Taking place during the week of the IMF and World Bank Annual Meetings, amid international discussions on global economic opportunities and challenges, the event brought Chinese perspectives to the global conversation and offered Chinese insights into key issues concerning China’s economy that are of broad international interest.

As an important part of CGI’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international exchanges, present China’s perspective, and foster a deeper understanding of China’s economic transformation process, the event was an innovative exploration. Looking ahead, CGI will continue to deepen its international engagement and work toward building an international dialogue platform focused on China’s economy, contributing to greater mutual trust and consensus, and playing a positive role in this cause.

Hashtag: #CICC

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About CICC

China International Capital Corporation Limited (CICC, 601995.SH, 3908.HK) was founded in 1995. Our experience in professional services includes leading several prominent transactions, reflecting our close involvement in China’s economic reform and development. Our vision is to become a first-class investment bank with international competitiveness. Our extensive network and cross-border business practices have enabled us to offer high-quality, value-added financial services to a diversified client base. This includes a full-service and balanced business model that offers investment banking, equities, FICC (Fixed Income, Currencies and Commodities), asset management, private equity and wealth management services, all of which draw on our comprehensive research and technology capability. Headquartered in Beijing, the Group has over 200 securities business offices in China, and established subsidiaries or branches in places including Hong Kong SAR, New York, London, Singapore, Frankfurt, Tokyo, Ho Chi Minh City and Dubai. As an investment bank with Chinese roots and an international reach, we are committed to providing first-rate financial services to both our Chinese and global clients to help them achieve their goals.