US Grants Annual Chip-Tool Licences
According to Reuters, “US approves Samsung, SK Hynix chipmaking tool shipments to China for 2026, sources say”, Washington replaces blanket waivers with yearly licences to allow some production while tightening exports — a move with CHIPS supply-chain implications. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/china/samsung-wins-us-annual-approval-chipmaking-tool-shipments-china-source-says-2025-12-30/)) [Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/world/china/samsung-wins-us-annual-approval-chipmaking-tool-shipments-china-source-says-2025-12-30/)
Meta Acquires Manus to Speed AI Agents
According to Reuters, “Meta to buy Chinese founded startup Manus to boost advanced AI”, Meta will integrate Manus into Meta AI and sever Chinese ownership ties, doubling down on AGENTS that perform autonomous, multi-step tasks across products. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/china/meta-acquire-chinese-startup-manus-boost-advanced-ai-features-2025-12-29/)) [Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/world/china/meta-acquire-chinese-startup-manus-boost-advanced-ai-features-2025-12-29/)
Tech Stocks Muted as Year-End Rally Pauses
According to Reuters, “S&P 500, Nasdaq muted in holiday-thin trade, Meta gains on deal”, U.S. indexes were subdued in thin trading after a tech-led dip, underscoring how sensitive MARKETS remain to AI valuations and low holiday volumes. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/business/us-stock-futures-stabilize-after-tech-led-dip-halts-year-end-rally-2025-12-30/)) [Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/business/us-stock-futures-stabilize-after-tech-led-dip-halts-year-end-rally-2025-12-30/)
Fed minutes show split
According to AP, “December interest rate cut was a close call for some Fed officials, minutes show” — the FOMC’s Dec. 9–10 minutes show a 9–3 vote to cut by 25 basis points, underscoring sharp debate over inflation vs. a cooling labor market; keyword: interest rates. [AP News](https://apnews.com/article/3c48a2e88f04b70e993020712c8684b2)
Stocks muted in thin trading
According to Reuters, “S&P 500, Nasdaq muted in holiday-thin trade after tech dip stalls rally” — U.S. equities traded flat in holiday-thinned volumes as tech and financials cooled gains, though major indexes remain on track for an eighth straight monthly rise; keyword: stocks. [Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/business/us-stock-futures-stabilize-after-tech-led-dip-halts-year-end-rally-2025-12-30/)
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