Today’s ESG Updates
- China Accuses Taiwan Over Chips: China accuses Taiwan of using its semiconductor industry to gain political leverage with the US.
- Trump’s $5M “Gold Card” Visa: Trump introduces a new visa offering US citizenship in exchange for a $5 million investment.
- LNG Demand to Rise 60% by 2040: Global LNG demand is expected to grow 60% by 2040, driven by economic growth and emissions reductions.
- CICC and Galaxy to Merge: CICC and China Galaxy Securities plan to merge, creating China’s third-largest brokerage.
China accuses Taiwan of action to ‘gift’ chip industry to the US
China recently accused Taiwan of using its semiconductor industry to gain political leverage with the US, claiming Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party is offering it to Washington as a “souvenir” to seek independence. The accusations come after reports that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSM) has shown interest in Intel stakes. The accusation comes with a direct threat to China, with China claiming democratic control over Taiwan and the US being competition. Experts say that companies aiming to make the most of the changing market landscape should adopt ESG solutions.
***
Further reading: China says Taiwan seeks to give away chip industry to US
Trump’s $5 million ‘gold car’ visa aims to transform US investment strategy
President Donald Trump introduced a new “gold card” visa, offering a pathway to US citizenship for a $5 million investment. The visa is designed to replace the existing EB-5 investor visa. The new program aims to attract foreign investment to the US, with the goal of boosting economic growth while providing an expedited route to citizenship for high-net-worth individuals. The proposal is part of broader immigration reform efforts under the Trump administration.
Photo Credit: Nicole Geri
***
Further reading: Trump says he will offer ‘gold cards’ for $5 million path to US citizenship, replacing EB-5 investor visas
Industry forecasts predict a 60% rise in demand for natural gas
Global demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG) is expected to rise by 60% by 2040, driven by economic growth in Asia, emissions reductions in industry and transport, and AI’s influence. LNG trade grew by just 2 million tonnes in 2024, with supply development constraints. By 2030, over 170 million tonnes of new LNG supply will be available. The US and Qatar will be key exporters. LNG will remain vital for energy security, especially in Europe, and in supporting decarbonization efforts.
Photo Credit: Alethia Briones
***
Further Reading: Asian economic growth expected to drive 60% rise in LNG demand to 2040
CICC and China Galaxy Securities to merge and from China’s third-largest brokerage
China International Capital Corp (CICC) plans to merge with China Galaxy Securities, creating the country’s third-largest brokerage with $193 billion in assets. The merger would come due to Beijing’s efforts to place domestic investment banks on the world stage. Shanghai-listed shares of CICC and Galaxy rose by 10%, indicating anticipation for the merger action plan. It is crucial businesses stay up to date with the latest changes in sustainability investment across the market, with ESG solutions providing an easy platform to assess change.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
***
Further reading: Exclusive: CICC to merge with Galaxy Securities to form China’s No.3 brokerage, say sources
Editor’s Note: The opinions expressed here by the authors are their own, not those of impakter.com — Cover Photo Credit: Алекс Арцибашев
