Control Over Resources Creates Uncertainty

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China's export controls on gallium and germanium have significant implications for the semiconductor industry. By requiring licenses for each shipment, China has introduced uncertainty regarding the availability of these crucial materials, which it predominantly supplies—98% of gallium and 60% of germanium globally. This puts companies reliant on these metals in a precarious position, potentially disrupting their operations and supply chains.

The Japanese operator of 7-Eleven is discussing ways to defend itself against a takeover bid by Canada’s Alimentation Couche-Tard, Chinese export controls on crucial semiconductor materials are starting to hit supply chains, and the fintech company Klarna plans to axe almost half of its staff in favour of artificial intelligence. Plus, Nasa is turning to Elon Musk’s SpaceX after Boeing’s Starliner, which was meant to bring two US astronauts home, suffered technical problems.

Mentioned in this podcast:

7-Eleven’s Japanese owner explores protected status to thwart foreign bid

China’s export curbs on semiconductor materials stoke chip output fears

Klarna aims to halve workforce with AI-driven gains

How will Nasa return two US astronauts stranded in space?

The FT News Briefing is produced by Niamh Rowe, Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Breen Turner, Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music.

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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