Malaysia has taken a bold step toward becoming a regional leader in artificial intelligence (AI) with the launch of its National AI Office. This new centralised agency aims to spearhead AI-related policies, oversee regulations, and accelerate the nation’s digital transformation.

A Major Milestone in Malaysia’s Digital Journey

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim called the establishment of the office a “historical moment” for Malaysia’s ongoing digital transformation. The office will be responsible for strategic planning, research and development, and regulatory oversight, according to official information shared on its website.

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As part of its ambitious agenda, the National AI Office has outlined seven key deliverables for its first year. These include:

• Developing a Code of Ethics for AI
• Creating an AI Regulatory Framework
• Designing a Five-Year AI Technology Action Plan (2025-2030)

These initiatives aim to position Malaysia as a pivotal hub for AI development in Southeast Asia.

Partnerships with Global Tech Giants

The launch also marked the announcement of strategic partnerships with six major technology companies, including Amazon, Google, and Microsoft. Over the past year, these global firms have committed to developing data centres, cloud infrastructure, and AI projects in Malaysia, reinforcing the country’s position as a destination for high-tech investment.

AI Driving Economic Growth

Digital ventures have significantly contributed to Malaysia’s economic growth. In 2024, the country’s information and communications sub-sector attracted 71.1 billion ringgit ($16.06 billion) in approved investments, according to Malaysia’s investment authority.

This influx of foreign direct investment (FDI) underscores the country’s growing status as a digital economy powerhouse. The establishment of the National AI Office is expected to further bolster investor confidence, promote innovation, and create a robust regulatory environment for the adoption of AI technologies.

With its strategic partnerships, clear regulatory goals, and a structured roadmap for AI development, Malaysia is positioning itself as a key player in Southeast Asia’s digital economy. By 2030, the country aims to be at the forefront of AI innovation, ensuring sustainable growth and technological leadership in the region.

This latest initiative highlights Malaysia’s forward-thinking approach to harnessing the potential of AI, attracting international investment, and establishing itself as a leader in the global AI landscape.

Cyprus remains one of the EU’s lowest spenders on research and development (R&D) as a share of GDP, despite recording gradual growth over the last decade. According to fresh data from Eurostat, Cyprus’s R&D intensity — the proportion of GDP dedicated to R&D — rose from 0.48% in 2013 to 0.68% in 2023.

While this increase signals progress, Cyprus still lags behind most of its European counterparts. Its R&D intensity remains well below the EU average of 2.2%, a figure that has stayed consistent since 2022.

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R&D Expenditure on the Rise

In monetary terms, Cyprus’s R&D spending reached €213.5 million in 2023, up from €207 million in 2022 and significantly higher than the €87.5 million recorded in 2013. The steady growth in expenditure highlights the country’s ongoing, albeit modest, efforts to support research and innovation.

Across the EU, R&D spending saw a 6.7% rise in 2023, reaching €381.4 billion, up from €357.4 billion the previous year. Compared to 2013, EU spending on R&D increased by 57.9%, reflecting the bloc’s broader push toward technological development and innovation.

Cyprus vs. the EU: A Stark Contrast

Although Cyprus has made progress, it still ranks among the EU’s five lowest performers in terms of R&D intensity. Other countries in this group include Romania (0.5%), Malta (0.6%), Bulgaria (0.8%), and Latvia (0.8%). In contrast, Sweden (3.6%) leads the bloc, followed by Belgium and Austria (3.3% each) and Germany and Finland (3.1% each).

From 2013 to 2023, R&D intensity increased in 19 EU countries. The largest gains were seen in Belgium (+1 percentage point), Poland (+0.7 pp), and Greece (+0.7 pp). Cyprus, with its +0.2 percentage point increase, made more modest progress in comparison.

Where Does EU R&D Funding Go?

In 2023, the EU’s R&D expenditure of €381.4 billion was largely driven by the business sector, which accounted for 66% of total spending (€253.1 billion). The higher education sector followed with 21% (€81.7 billion), while the government sector accounted for 11% (€41.0 billion). The non-profit sector had the smallest share at just 1% (€5.5 billion).

Cyprus’s R&D trajectory shows signs of growth, but the country faces a steep climb to catch up with the EU average. Despite a decade of incremental increases, Cyprus remains one of the bloc’s lowest spenders relative to GDP. With R&D playing a crucial role in driving technological advancement and economic competitiveness, the need for accelerated investment in this sector has never been more urgent.

A Breakthrough in Quantum Computing

Google has introduced “Willow,” a revolutionary quantum chip capable of solving problems so complex that even modern supercomputers would require an astronomical 10 septillion years to complete them. In stark contrast, Willow accomplishes these tasks in just five minutes, marking a monumental leap in the race to develop functional, large-scale quantum computers.

How Willow Works

The power of Willow lies in its ability to harness quantum mechanics — the physics governing subatomic particles — to perform calculations at unprecedented speeds. Traditional supercomputers process information in binary bits (0s and 1s), but Willow employs qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously. This capability allows quantum computers to solve complex problems exponentially faster than classical devices.

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One of Willow’s most significant advancements is its capacity to reduce quantum errors — a persistent challenge in quantum computing. Google achieved this by increasing the number of qubits, enabling more precise and stable computations. This breakthrough addresses an issue researchers have been working on for nearly 30 years. Google calls it a major milestone on its journey toward building a “large-scale useful quantum computer” that could transform industries like healthcare, logistics, and cybersecurity.

What It Means for the Future

Quantum computing is seen as a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it holds the promise of faster drug discovery, optimization of supply chains, and advances in AI. On the other, it raises concerns about the potential to crack existing encryption methods, posing a threat to global cybersecurity. Tech giants like Apple have already responded by upgrading their encryption to be “quantum-proof,” ensuring that sensitive data remains secure even as quantum technology advances.

For now, Willow remains a prototype, not yet ready to tackle real-world applications. Experts predict it will take years — and billions in investment — before quantum computers reach the scale needed to address practical problems. But for Google, the unveiling of Willow represents a crucial step forward. As Google Quantum AI stated, “Willow takes us significantly further along that path toward commercially significant applications.”

With quantum computing now moving from theory to tangible progress, Willow’s debut could be a defining moment in the evolution of technology, one that challenges the very concept of time in problem-solving.

The global airline industry is on track to achieve record revenues of $1 trillion by 2025, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). While passenger numbers continue to rise, the sector faces persistent challenges, including aircraft supply chain disruptions and operational delays.

Record Revenue and Profit Growth

IATA projects a net profit of $36.6 billion for the airline sector in 2025, a rise from the $31.5 billion expected in 2024. Passenger traffic remains strong, with a record 5.2 billion passengers travelling in 2024. Although growth in 2025 is forecasted to be more moderate, it will still contribute to a sustained recovery following the COVID-19-induced collapse of 2020, which saw industry losses of $140 billion.

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Lower fuel prices are providing some relief for airlines. Brent crude oil prices have declined by 20% over the past year, easing operating costs. The outlook is further supported by expectations of looser fiscal policies worldwide, which could bolster consumer purchasing power and drive global economic growth.

Supply Chain Disruptions Hamper Expansion

Despite positive financial projections, airlines face significant operational challenges. Strikes and technical issues at major aircraft manufacturers Boeing and Airbus have delayed deliveries of new, more fuel-efficient planes. These delays are problematic for airlines seeking to modernise their fleets and reduce fuel costs.

Boeing’s production of the 737 MAX aircraft was disrupted after a seven-week strike involving more than 70,000 employees. Following a new labour agreement that includes a 38% wage increase over four years, production has resumed. However, the backlog of more than 4,000 pending orders poses a logistical hurdle for Boeing as it seeks to meet growing airline demand.

A Look Ahead

As the airline industry edges closer to the $1 trillion revenue milestone, it must navigate both opportunities and obstacles. Rising passenger numbers and easing fuel costs are key growth drivers. However, production delays at Boeing and Airbus highlight the fragile nature of the sector’s supply chain.

The coming years will be defined by how well the industry adapts to these challenges. Airlines reliant on timely fleet upgrades may face operational setbacks, but the overall outlook remains positive. With strong global demand, increased profits, and declining fuel costs, the sector is poised for continued growth—though not without turbulence along the way.

The Cypriot real estate market experienced significant growth in 2024, with Limassol firmly at the forefront. From suburban houses to city-centre apartments, shifting buyer preferences and rising investment interest are driving demand across the island.

Limassol: A Market Powerhouse

Limassol remains the undisputed leader, with property sales far exceeding those of other districts. From January to September 2024, the city recorded 237 house sales worth €165 million and 1,469 apartment sales valued at €820 million.

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Limassol City attracted the most apartment sales (557 units, €471,000 average), followed by upscale Germasogeia (247 units, €706,000 average) and Agios Athanasios (133 units, €342,000 average). The housing market also saw strong demand in Ypsonas, Cherkezoi, and Agios Tychonas, reflecting Limassol’s appeal among local and international buyers seeking luxury and investment opportunities.

Nicosia, Larnaca, and Paphos Follow the Trend

Nicosia, the island’s capital, saw strong demand for apartments, with 1,194 units sold for a total of €236.9 million. Key areas like Strovolos, Lakatamia, and Nicosia City led apartment sales, driven by professionals and investors seeking high-yield properties.

Larnaca has become a rising star, attracting buyers seeking affordable homes and apartments. The district recorded 191 house sales worth €64.35 million and 1,113 apartment sales totalling €218.8 million. Sales were concentrated in Larnaca City, Livadia, and Aradippou, where buyers are drawn by the promise of coastal living and competitive pricing.

Paphos continues to attract foreign buyers and lifestyle investors. In 2024, it recorded 243 house sales worth €149.6 million and 416 apartment sales totalling €138.4 million. The district’s coastal charm, scenic views, and investment potential make it a prime choice for second-home buyers and holiday rental investors.

Shifting Buyer Preferences

The 2024 market trends reveal a shift towards suburban living, with areas like Ypsonas (Limassol), Lakatamia (Nicosia), and Aradippou (Larnaca) gaining traction. The pandemic has influenced demand for larger, more comfortable living spaces.

Apartments remain a strong choice for professionals, students, and investors, particularly in Limassol, Nicosia, and Larnaca, where rental yields and urban convenience appeal to younger demographics. Investors are also targeting city-centre apartments as Cyprus maintains its status as a key market for international buyers.

What’s Next?

With Limassol leading the charge, the Cypriot property market is set for continued growth. Demand for suburban homes will likely persist, while city-centre apartments remain a lucrative investment. Limassol’s luxury market will continue to draw affluent buyers, and regions like Nicosia, Larnaca, and Paphos are set to benefit from rising demand.

Buyers prioritise lifestyle, space, and investment returns as the market evolves. Cyprus’ appeal as a residential and investment destination remains strong, with Limassol at its heart.

The vehicle registration market in Cyprus saw a significant shift in 2024, with hybrid and electric cars leading the way. From January to November, overall vehicle registrations increased by 10.1%, driven largely by the rising demand for eco-friendly alternatives. Hybrid vehicles in particular experienced a remarkable growth, making up 36.9% of all new car registrations, up from 28.9% in 2023. Meanwhile, electric vehicle registrations doubled to 4% of the market, compared to just 2.7% last year.

The surge in hybrid and electric vehicles reflects the broader global trend towards sustainability and environmental responsibility. With fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly alternatives becoming more accessible and desirable, consumers in Cyprus are increasingly opting for these vehicles. Hybrid cars, with their blend of petrol and electric power, offer a practical solution for those looking to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions, while electric vehicles continue to gain traction as the country invests in charging infrastructure and green energy initiatives.

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On the other hand, traditional petrol-powered vehicles have seen a decline in popularity, dropping from 58.2% of the market in 2023 to 48.9% in 2024. Diesel-powered vehicles have remained stable, accounting for 10.1%, but the shift towards cleaner, more efficient options is evident.

Overall, the increase in hybrid and electric vehicle registrations reflects a significant change in consumer attitudes, driven by both environmental concerns and the growing availability of green vehicle models. This shift is likely to continue as more incentives and infrastructure are introduced to support eco-friendly transportation, positioning Cyprus as part of the broader global movement towards sustainable urban mobility.

Despite some decline in overall vehicle registrations in November 2024, hybrid and electric vehicles appear to be at the forefront of Cyprus’ automotive future. With rising fuel prices and heightened awareness of climate change, the shift to greener vehicles is a clear response to both economic and environmental factors, making hybrid and electric cars the preferred choice for many Cypriot drivers.

China has initiated an investigation into Nvidia, a move widely viewed as retaliation against recent US chip restrictions on the Chinese semiconductor sector. The State Administration for Market Regulation announced the probe on Monday, citing potential violations of China’s anti-monopoly law. The investigation also examines Nvidia’s adherence to commitments made during its acquisition of Israeli chip designer Mellanox Technologies in 2020.

Although the exact nature of the violations remains unclear, the investigation signals a further escalation in the ongoing trade war between the US and China, as both nations compete for dominance in technology. The announcement follows a coordinated statement from four major Chinese industry associations warning local companies to be cautious when purchasing US-made chips, advising them to seek domestic alternatives instead.

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Nvidia’s shares fell by 2.5% following the news. A company spokesperson stated that Nvidia is committed to providing the best products globally and is prepared to address any questions from regulators regarding its business operations.

Impact on Nvidia and the Semiconductor Industry

Bob O’Donnell, Chief Analyst at TECHnalysis Research, suggested that the probe will likely have minimal immediate impact on Nvidia. This is because most of Nvidia’s cutting-edge chips are already restricted from being sold in China due to US sanctions. These sanctions have targeted Nvidia’s A100 and H100 AI chips since 2022, forcing the company to develop modified versions of these products for the Chinese market. However, these versions were also restricted in October 2023, prompting Nvidia to release another set of modified chips specifically for China.

Despite these challenges, Nvidia has maintained a dominant position in the Chinese AI chip market, holding over 90% market share prior to the US sanctions. However, competition from domestic rivals, particularly Huawei, has been increasing. China accounted for about 17% of Nvidia’s revenue in the year ending January 2024, a sharp decline from 26% just two years earlier.

Growing US-China Tensions in the Semiconductor Sector

The investigation into Nvidia comes after the United States imposed its third crackdown on China’s semiconductor industry in three years, curbing exports to 140 companies, including chip equipment manufacturers. In response, China banned the export of key minerals, including gallium, germanium, and antimony, to the US.

Nvidia’s acquisition of Mellanox Technologies in 2020 was approved by China under certain conditions, which aimed to ensure fair and non-discriminatory access to the Chinese market for both Nvidia’s GPU accelerators and Mellanox’s networking equipment. These conditions included providing customers the ability to purchase up to one year’s worth of inventory and prohibiting unfair product bundling or trading terms.

The last time China initiated an anti-monopoly investigation into a major foreign tech company was in 2013 when Qualcomm was scrutinized for overcharging and abusing its market position in wireless communications. Qualcomm later paid a $975 million fine, the largest China had imposed on a company at that time.

As tensions between the US and China continue to rise, the future of global semiconductor supply chains remains uncertain, with companies like Nvidia caught in the crossfire of geopolitical struggles.

According to a recent report from GroupM, global advertising revenue is projected to surpass $1 trillion by 2025, marking a significant milestone for the industry. Technology companies are expected to drive much of this growth, with digital advertising continuing to dominate the market.

The key players in this surge are tech giants like Google, Meta, ByteDance, Amazon, and Alibaba, which are expected to account for more than half of the global advertising revenue. GroupM estimates that digital advertising will account for 73% of the total ad revenue by the end of 2024, and further growth is forecasted at 12.4% globally in 2024, with a steady 10% increase in 2025.

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Despite challenges in developed markets such as the United States and the United Kingdom, the ad market continues to outpace nominal GDP growth. GroupM forecasts a 9.5% global growth in advertising revenue by the end of 2024, higher than the initially expected 7.8%.

In the United States, political advertising is set to reach an all-time high, with revenues expected to hit $15.1 billion in 2024, nearly a third more than in 2020. The U.S. is projected to remain the world’s largest advertising market, with an estimated $379 billion in revenue by 2025.

While digital advertising thrives, traditional media continues to face difficulties. Print advertising revenue is expected to fall by 4.5% by the end of 2024, with further declines of 3% anticipated in 2025. Similarly, while audio advertising remains steady, television advertising growth is projected to be modest, registering just 2.4% combined growth over the 2024-2029 period.

The advertising landscape is rapidly changing, with artificial intelligence (AI) playing an increasingly important role. GroupM notes that the industry’s future success will depend on teams with dynamic, data-driven skill sets that leverage AI to stay ahead in a competitive market.

However, this growth comes with new challenges. The rise of digital ads is accompanied by increasing scrutiny and stricter regulations, creating a more complex environment for advertisers.

As advertising continues to evolve, the dominance of digital platforms, particularly the tech giants, marks a significant shift in the industry’s structure. With global advertising revenues set to exceed $1 trillion, the sector is witnessing a revolution, driven by innovation in digital technologies and the growing reliance on data and artificial intelligence.

Monaco, synonymous with luxury living and financial exclusivity, has expanded its territory by 3% with the completion of the €2 billion ($2.1 billion) Mareterra project. Built directly into the Mediterranean Sea, this “eco-district” adds nearly 15 acres of new land, marking a major shift toward sustainable urban development.

A New Model for Land Reclamation

Inaugurated by Prince Albert II, Mareterra addresses Monaco’s chronic space constraints. The city-state, home to 39,000 residents within just 2.1 square kilometres, has a history of land reclamation dating back to the 1960s. However, unlike past projects, Mareterra prioritises sustainability and environmental preservation.

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Work on Mareterra began in 2013, using concrete caissons — large, hollow chambers submerged in the sea, drained, and filled with 750,000 metric tons of sand. This method, combined with a strong ecological focus, created a district with luxury residences, a marina, a promenade, and public green spaces. Around 50% of the new land is accessible to the public, featuring parks, cycling paths, and retail areas. Over 1,000 trees, imported from Tuscany, have been planted to support biodiversity.

Sustainability at the Core

Unlike traditional land reclamation, which often disrupts marine life, Mareterra incorporates several eco-friendly measures. Developers collaborated with marine biologists to protect biodiversity, creating artificial seagrass beds to support marine habitats. The district also prioritises clean energy, with 80% of its heating and cooling needs met by renewable sources, including 1.2 acres of solar panels.

This approach aligns with Monaco’s broader commitment to sustainable development, championed by Prince Albert II, a known advocate for ocean conservation. His influence was instrumental in halting a 2009 reclamation proposal due to environmental concerns, prompting tighter regulations for future projects.

A New Standard of Luxury

Mareterra isn’t just an eco-friendly initiative — it’s also a prime real estate development. The project features over 100 upscale apartments and 10 exclusive villas designed by world-renowned architects, including Norman Foster, Tadao Ando, and Renzo Piano. Piano’s contribution, “Le Renzo,” offers luxury living with his signature architectural style.

Although official property prices have not been disclosed, estimates from Knight Frank suggest homes in the district could sell for around €100,000 per square metre — nearly double Monaco’s average real estate price. As Monaco’s land becomes increasingly scarce, demand for properties in Mareterra is expected to soar.

Revenue Boost for Monaco

Privately funded, Mareterra is still a financial win for Monaco. The government will collect a 20% tax on property sales, providing a steady source of revenue. Expanding the Grimaldi Forum, Monaco’s conference centre, was also part of the project, boosting the state’s capacity to host large-scale events. With reclaimed land making up over 25% of Monaco’s total territory, the principality has established a model for sustainable growth and financial resilience.

Monaco vs. Dubai: A Tale of Two Visions for Coastal Expansion

When comparing Monaco’s approach to land reclamation with Dubai’s, the two cities take markedly different routes.

Monaco focuses on sustainable urbanization with a commitment to preserving marine biodiversity and minimizing environmental impact. The Mareterra project exemplifies this ethos, utilizing green building methods and renewable energy sources. Monaco aims to enhance the quality of life while maintaining ecological harmony, ensuring that the expansion benefits both its residents and the surrounding ecosystem.

In contrast, Dubai has prioritized large-scale luxury developments, building iconic “glamorous islands” like The Palm Jumeirah and The World Islands. While these projects have spurred economic growth and attracted elite investors, they have faced significant ecological issues. The traditional method of land reclamation, primarily through sand dredging, has led to the destruction of coral reefs and the disruption of local marine ecosystems. Additionally, issues like soil subsidence and altered ocean currents threaten the long-term stability of these artificial islands.

Dubai’s focus has been on tourism and real estate investments, with projects designed to generate substantial revenue. These developments are often criticized for their environmental costs, including the strain on local ecosystems. On the other hand, Monaco aims for a balanced approach, focusing on creating a functional and ecologically sustainable environment.

Monaco’s Mareterra sets a new benchmark for sustainable land expansion. By increasing the principality’s size by 3%, it offers a practical solution to space constraints while promoting eco-friendly development. This approach stands in stark contrast to Dubai’s high-profile island ventures, which focus on luxury tourism and private investment. While Dubai’s grand projects capture global attention, Monaco’s quieter, sustainability-driven model may well shape the future of urban development.

Oil prices kicked off the week on an upward trajectory after rebels ousted the 43-year rule of President Bashar al-Assad and his father, Hafez al-Assad. The prospect of civil war has fueled concerns over heightened tensions in the Middle East, raising the risk of supply chain disruptions.

Key Figures

• Brent crude rose 0.52% to $71.49 per barrel.
• US light crude climbed 0.58% to $67.59 per barrel.

These movements followed the seizure of Damascus by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a radical rebel group, on Sunday. This marked the end of 50 years of Assad family rule, raising fears of a possible escalation into civil war.

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The oil market’s upward trend comes after two consecutive weeks of losses for both Brent and US light crude, driven by growing expectations of oversupply in 2025.

Market Constraints

Despite the rise in prices, broader market sentiment remains weighed down by weak demand in China, the world’s second-largest economy. This prompted Saudi Aramco, the world’s top crude exporter, to slash its January 2025 prices for the Asian market to the lowest level since early 2021.

OPEC+ Strategy Shift

In a move that surprised markets, OPEC+ postponed its planned production increase for January by an entire year, rather than the previously expected three months. OPEC+ controls about 50% of global oil production, and the group had initially planned to ramp up production from October 2024. However, slowing demand, especially from China, along with rising output from other producers, forced multiple delays to the increase.

With the global energy market still under pressure from weak demand, the cartel’s decision signals a shift toward a more cautious production strategy to maintain price stability.