... The funds are targeted at projects in the fields of artificial intelligence, robotics, chips, and other strategic areas and will be formed with the participation of private capital. Analysis: The launch of such mega funds indicates China's intent to compensate for the slowdown in private investments with active state intervention. Amid cooling venture financing from abroad and internal restrictions, Chinese authorities are effectively taking on the role of a major investor to maintain leadership ...

... close to early-year levels and significantly lower than the peaks of last winter. Contributing to this are relatively cheap oil (~$70 per barrel compared to >$100 a year ago) and successfully restructured fuel supply chains. European countries have compensated for the loss of Russian diesel by increasing imports from the Middle East and Asia, as well as ramping up domestic production. As a result, gasoline prices at filling stations in Europe have stabilized, alleviating one of the reasons for inflationary ...

... despite declining cigarette sales volumes. Q2 financial results are expected to be moderately positive: consensus estimates an earnings of about $1.38 per share compared to $1.31 a year earlier, with revenue at ~$5.19 billion. The company continues to compensate for the decrease in smokers by raising prices. Meanwhile, Altria is betting on smoke-free products (NJOY e-cigarettes, on! nicotine pouches), attempting to solidify its position in the alternatives segment – their sales are growing at double-digit ...