[TechNews Digest] Top 10 Technology News Highlights for Today

Hello, I am your Technology News Curator. Today, we deliver 10 important news stories moving the world, ranging from earnings announcements by major U.S. IT companies to the Federal Reserve's monetary policy and Middle East developments. Please view today's highlights where expanding AI demand intersects with geopolitical risks.

1. Major US IT Giants Report Earnings; Revenue and Profit Rise Amid Surging AI Demand

Four major US IT companies reported earnings, achieving revenue and profit growth against the backdrop of rising AI demand. Investment in generative AI boosted performance, making the structure where technological innovation drives economic growth clear. Expansion of cloud businesses was also notable across the industry, drawing attention to future capital investment plans. Major securities firms and electronic component manufacturers were also strong, confirming robust activity across the entire AI-related supply chain.

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2. US Races to Secure Antimony as China's Rare Earth Industry ...

The US is prioritizing securing antimony, a critical mineral, to counter China's rare earth industry. Strengthening strategic moves from the perspective of supply chain security has highlighted the current intensification of US-China competition over resources. Stable procurement of materials essential for semiconductors and defense industries is positioned as a top national strategic priority.

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3. Chair Powell to Remain on Board After Stepping Down as Chair; Stance on Protecting Fed Independence

Fed Chair Powell indicated his intention to remain as a board member even after stepping down as chair. This clearly signals a stance to protect the independence of the central bank. With market attention focusing on the selection of the next chair, this is seen as an intent to prioritize policy continuity. His firm attitude towards political pressure is being evaluated positively.

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4. US April FOMC: End of an Era | News Morning Satellite ...

The US April FOMC resulted in outcomes suggesting the end of an era. Political factors such as President Trump's measures against high oil prices also influenced the market, and the direction of future monetary policy is watched closely as a turning point in the Powell administration. Reports indicated growing uncertainty in economic conditions, including the retreat of rate cut expectations and market reactions.

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5. Impact of UAE Leaving OPEC; Idemitsu Maru Passes Strait of Hormuz; Corporate M&A Economic Security ...

Energy situations are tense, including the impact of the UAE leaving OPEC and the Idemitsu Maru passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Movements regarding economic security, such as government recommendations to halt corporate acquisitions, are also becoming active, strengthening defense on both resource and technology fronts. For Japanese companies, maintaining supply chains and ensuring security remain critical issues.

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6. Idemitsu Corporation's Oil Tanker "Idemitsu Maru" Passes Strait of Hormuz; Supplies for Japan ...

Idemitsu Corporation's oil tanker "Idemitsu Maru" passed through the Strait of Hormuz. This is a vital route for supplies to Japan and is being monitored as a crucial move to maintain energy supply networks despite worsening Middle East situations. Despite risks of maritime blockades, corporate efforts continue to ensure stable supply.

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7. Fed Holds Rates for Third Consecutive Meeting; Decision 8-4 Inflation Concerns - Reuters

The Fed decided to hold rates steady for the third consecutive meeting. Hawkish voices rose due to inflation concerns, and the decision was passed 8-4. With the retreat of rate cut expectations, market anxiety about further yen depreciation and dollar appreciation is also heightening. How to balance price stability and economic growth remains the focus of discussion.

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8. President Trump Rejects Postponement of Nuclear Issue; "Iran Has No Choice But to Surrender" ...

President Trump denied postponement of the Iran nuclear issue, showing a hardline stance that "Iran has no choice but to surrender." While applying economic pressure via maritime blockade, preventing possession of nuclear weapons is positioned as the top priority. It became clear he offered cooperation during a phone call with the Russian president, aiming to strengthen international pressure.

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9. Major US IT Giants Report Earnings; Revenue and Profit Rise Amid Surging AI Demand

Detailed earnings for IT giants like Amazon and Alphabet were announced. Cloud businesses performed well, with significant increases in both sales and net income, confirming that AI-related capital investment is a major factor in revenue expansion. Online advertising businesses were also robust, indicating that the overall growth trend of the digital economy is being maintained.

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10. US IT Giants 4 Companies; Cloud Business Strong, All Increase Revenue and Profit; AI Investment Is ...

Following strong performance in cloud businesses by major US IT companies, AI investment is expected to expand further. However, stock prices fluctuated at times due to concerns over over-investment, raising questions about whether a sustainable growth model can be built. Strategic differences are becoming apparent amidst fierce competition, such as data center investment expansion and progress in customer initiatives.

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