WSJ Tech News Briefing TNB Tech Minute: China to Review Manus Deal With Meta
22 snips
Jan 8, 2026 Christoph Beck, Chairman and CEO of Ecolab, shares his expertise on water sustainability in data centers, highlighting the crucial role of efficient water use in tech. The discussion pivots to Meta's $2.5B Manus acquisition facing scrutiny from China over AI tech export concerns. Additionally, NIO is gearing up to launch in Australia and New Zealand, while Samsung enjoys a record surge in profits thanks to skyrocketing AI demand. This dynamic conversation blends sustainability with the latest in tech developments.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
China Scrutinizes Meta-Manus Deal
- China is reviewing Meta's $2.5 billion acquisition of Manus as part of broader efforts to protect AI technology amid US-China competition.
- Officials are identifying Chinese AI firms and technologies for a potential export-control list that could affect cross-border deals.
Export Controls Target Key AI Tech
- Beijing's review is part of a larger push to regulate cross-border technology and data transfers under Chinese law.
- This effort signals rising export-control ambitions tied to the intensifying U.S.-China tech race.
NIO Details Global Expansion Plans
- NIO plans to enter Australia and New Zealand in the second half of this year while also targeting Thailand and more European markets in 2026.
- The company's head of global business noted expansion plans despite NIO not yet being profitable.