Rapid Read: Geopolitical Must-Knows for Today (20 July 2025)
This is my news scan from 20 July 2025 at 0700 Eastern Time until 19 July 2025 at 0712 Eastern Time
SK Hynix retreats from China, pivots to homegrown DRAM growth
https://www.digitimes.com/news/a20250716PD234/sk-hynix-dram-growth-production-hbm.html
SK Hynix is shifting its focus to domestic semiconductor production in South Korea, expanding its M16 fab in Icheon and preparing the M15X fab in Cheongju to meet rising demand for high-bandwidth memory (HBM) used in AI and high-performance computing. This move is driven by U.S. export controls and geopolitical tensions, prompting a reshuffling of the global memory supply chain. The company aims to capitalize on the growing HBM market, with its 12-layer HBM3E expected to drive significant profit growth. However, increased competition and potential oversupply may challenge SK Hynix's market dominance by 2026.
Congo, Rwanda-Backed Rebels Agree to Principles to End Fighting
Congo and Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have agreed to a framework to cease hostilities in eastern Congo, following talks mediated by Angola. The agreement outlines principles for a ceasefire, aiming to end a conflict that has displaced thousands and strained regional relations. Both sides have committed to further negotiations to finalize a lasting peace deal. However, challenges remain, as previous agreements have faltered due to mistrust and external influences.
Why Trump’s New Tariffs Went Easy on Indonesia
https://moderndiplomacy.eu/2025/07/19/why-trumps-new-tariffs-went-easy-on-indonesia/
Indonesia secured a relatively lenient 19% tariff rate from the Trump administration, compared to higher rates imposed on countries like China and Mexico, due to strategic negotiations. President Prabowo Subianto’s visit to Mar-a-Lago resulted in a deal for Indonesia to purchase $15 billion in U.S. energy, $4.5 billion in agricultural goods, and 50 Boeing aircraft, aligning with Trump’s focus on reciprocal trade. Indonesia’s geopolitical importance in the Indo-Pacific, controlling key maritime chokepoints, made it a valuable partner, reducing the risk of harsher penalties. This bilateral approach highlights Indonesia’s adaptability in navigating Trump’s tariff diplomacy.
Oil Price Volatility and Higher Valuations Cause M&A Activity to Slow
Oil and gas mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity has slowed in 2025 due to volatile oil prices and elevated asset valuations, making buyers cautious. High interest rates and economic uncertainty further dampen deal-making, as companies prioritize financial stability over expansion. Despite the slowdown, some firms are pursuing strategic acquisitions to secure long-term reserves, particularly in shale and offshore sectors. Analysts expect M&A activity to rebound if oil prices stabilize and valuation gaps narrow.
OPEC Is Playing The Long Game
https://oilprice.com/Energy/Crude-Oil/OPEC-Is-Playing-The-Long-Game41576.html
OPEC is maintaining its strategy of production cuts to support oil prices, focusing on long-term market stability rather than short-term gains. The organization aims to balance supply and demand amid global economic uncertainties and rising non-OPEC production. By prioritizing price stability, OPEC seeks to secure its market share and influence over the long term. However, this approach faces challenges from geopolitical tensions and potential shifts in global energy demand.
Tesla ignites three-row EV showdown in China
https://www.digitimes.com/news/a20250717PD235/tesla-im-motors-mm-bev-infrastructure.html
Tesla is intensifying competition in China’s electric vehicle (EV) market with plans for a three-row battery electric vehicle (BEV), targeting family-oriented consumers. The move challenges domestic giants like BYD and NIO, who dominate the Chinese EV market, as Tesla leverages its Shanghai Gigafactory to ramp up production. Enhanced BEV infrastructure in China supports Tesla’s expansion, but U.S. tariffs and local competition pose risks. The launch signals Tesla’s aggressive push to capture market share in the world’s largest EV market.
Intel CEO concedes Nvidia’s AI lead: a critical shift for the semiconductor giant
https://www.digitimes.com/news/a20250718PD222/intel-ceo-nvidia-market-ai-chip.html
Intel’s CEO has acknowledged Nvidia’s dominance in the AI chip market, signaling a strategic pivot for Intel to focus on alternative AI solutions and foundry services. The company is investing in new AI accelerators and exploring HBM4 adoption to regain competitive ground. Intel faces challenges from U.S. tariffs and currency pressures, which could hinder its $1 trillion semiconductor goal. This shift reflects Intel’s efforts to adapt to a rapidly evolving AI-driven semiconductor landscape.
Japan votes in a key election as Prime Minister Ishiba faces a possible loss
Japan’s general election is a critical test for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, whose Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) risks losing its parliamentary majority due to voter dissatisfaction over economic issues and political scandals. Ishiba, who took office recently, faces a fragmented opposition but struggles to maintain public support amid rising inflation and a weak yen. A loss could weaken Japan’s political stability and complicate Ishiba’s reform agenda. The election outcome will shape Japan’s economic and foreign policy direction in a geopolitically tense region.
What to know about the trial of Brazil’s former President Jair Bolsonaro
https://apnews.com/article/brazil-bolsonaro-trial-things-to-know-e42439f640a51d22619fb6c087f8e3d5
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro faces a trial for allegedly spreading disinformation during the 2022 election, accused of undermining electoral integrity. The case, centered on claims of voter fraud, could lead to his ineligibility for future elections, impacting Brazil’s political landscape. Bolsonaro’s defense argues the accusations are politically motivated, while prosecutors emphasize the need to protect democratic institutions. The trial’s outcome may deepen Brazil’s polarization and influence upcoming elections.
Iran Agrees to Talks With UK, France and Germany, Tasnim Reports
Iran has agreed to engage in talks with the UK, France, and Germany to address escalating tensions in the Middle East, according to Iran’s Tasnim news agency. The discussions aim to de-escalate conflicts, particularly following recent attacks involving Iran and Israel. The talks reflect a diplomatic push to stabilize the region amid concerns over broader conflict escalation. However, the success of these negotiations remains uncertain given longstanding mistrust and complex regional dynamics.
Disclaimer:
The headlines presented here are taken directly from the referenced articles and do not reflect any personal value judgment or opinion. They are generally presented chronologically based upon the publication time. I make no warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, or truthfulness of the content of these articles. It must be noted that the articles presented here are presented to develop thought and are not necessarily the thoughts of GeopoliticsUnplugged.com They are presented as interesting thought provoking discussion points. All news and information should be carefully scrutinized, considering the credibility of the source, the facts presented, and the strength of the supporting evidence. Readers are encouraged to form their own conclusions through critical analysis.