Your brief - 24h (13 articles)

According to CNBC, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) reported a 39.1% spike in quarterly profits, reaching NT$452.3 billion, driven by surging demand for AI chips, particularly for clients like Nvidia and Apple. Revenue grew 30.3% year-over-year, supported by high-performance computing (HPC) applications, which accounted for 57% of total sales. TSMC's advanced chips, sized 7nm or smaller, now represent 74% of wafer revenue, a key metric of industry leadership. CEO C.C. Wei highlighted the robust adoption of AI models, which has significantly bolstered semiconductor demand. Analysts at Counterpoint Research underlined that the company’s growth was anchored in its advanced 3nm and 4/5nm nodes. The results cement TSMC’s role as a pivotal enabler of the global AI revolution, though such dominance also raises questions about geopolitical dependencies in chip manufacturing. Source 6 Source 28 Source 37

As reported by Zonebourse.com, Givaudan inaugurated its Biotechnological Innovation Centre (BIC) in Toulouse, complementing existing R&D hubs in Orsay and Pomacle. This new facility includes state-of-the-art fermentation laboratories and biocatalysis development zones, solidifying Givaudan's position as a leader in biotechnology white chemistry, a domain targeting sustainable and efficient processes. CEO Gilles Andrier emphasized the strategic importance of this expansion under the company’s 2030 plan, aimed at fostering innovation in sectors such as beauty and health. This development reflects broader trends in the biotechnology sector, where investment in sustainable solutions is increasingly prioritized. However, challenges remain in scaling these technologies for global markets. Source 5

Zonebourse.com reports that Novartis achieved a breakthrough with its drug Fabhalta® (iptacopan) in a Phase III trial targeting IgA nephropathy (IgAN), a chronic kidney disease. The treatment demonstrated significant clinical efficacy by slowing kidney function decline, offering hope for patients with limited therapeutic options. IgAN affects millions globally, with no definitive cure. Novartis’s advancements underscore the critical role of targeted therapies in addressing autoimmune diseases, though the high costs of development and potential pricing structures could limit accessibility in resource-constrained regions. Source 17

As detailed by Al Jazeera, a study by World Weather Attribution and Climate Central predicts that global warming will result in 57 additional superhot days annually by 2100, even under current emission-reduction trajectories. Smaller nations like Panama and Samoa, producing only 1% of global emissions, are expected to face the brunt of these climate shifts, while major polluters like the United States and China remain less affected. This highlights a glaring inequity in climate impact versus responsibility. The findings emphasize the urgency for industrialized nations to accelerate decarbonization. However, achieving global consensus on more aggressive climate goals remains a diplomatic challenge. Source 22 Source 36

According to BBC News, a study published in Nature reveals that Australia’s tropical rainforests are now releasing more carbon than they absorb, primarily due to climate change-induced stress such as extreme temperatures and droughts. This development undercuts global carbon offset strategies and underscores the fragility of natural carbon sinks. Researchers warn that other tropical forests may follow this trajectory, magnifying the urgency for industrial nations to curb emissions. Australia’s continued reliance on fossil fuels, despite recently announced climate targets, reflects a troubling inconsistency in policy and action. Source 27

In alignment with its stellar performance, TSMC has revised its 2025 revenue growth forecast to the mid-30% range, up from the previous 30%, reports CNBC. This adjustment reflects sustained demand for AI processors and premium smartphone platforms. However, the semiconductor boom has also sparked concerns about overvaluation in the tech sector, as highlighted by former Meta executive Nick Clegg, who warned of a potential correction in AI-related markets. While TSMC’s dominance is evident, questions linger around market sustainability and global supply chain vulnerabilities. Source 6 Source 25

Zonebourse.com reports that ABB posted an 11% increase in Q3 revenue, driven by a 12% rise in orders. Operational EBITA margins reached a robust 19.2%, reflecting improved efficiency and scale. However, the company anticipates a sequential margin decline in Q4 due to moderating demand. ABB’s strategic positioning in electrification and automation reinforces its growth trajectory, though it must navigate a fragile global economy marked by geopolitical tensions and fluctuating raw material costs. Source 15

The Journal Du Net explores the transformative potential of agentic AI, an evolution of generative AI capable of automating complex workflows. While such technology promises operational efficiency, it requires robust data governance and careful human oversight to mitigate risks. The challenge lies in balancing automation with ethical considerations, particularly in sectors like healthcare and finance. As businesses increasingly adopt AI, the need for a skilled workforce to manage these systems will grow, emphasizing the importance of adaptive education models. Source 9

According to La Dépêche, Microsoft’s termination of free Windows 10 security updates has left millions of devices vulnerable unless users upgrade to Windows 11 or switch to alternative operating systems like Linux. With over 850 million devices estimated to be affected in France alone, this shift underscores the growing necessity for digital literacy and awareness in cybersecurity. Educational initiatives aimed at equipping users with the skills to transition to newer or alternative systems could mitigate risks associated with outdated software. Source 29 Source 38