Nov 04, 2025

In recent news, the ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting emphasized the importance of new frameworks on undersea cables and major power involvement. Policymakers recognized the significance of these developments, highlighting the vulnerability of data traffic between Asia and Europe due to submarine cable cuts. Discussions included new defense deliverables with major powers and within the grouping itself, such as a new Philippines task force and an upcoming ASEAN-China maritime exercise in 2027.

The stock market is facing two key risks, according to Morgan Stanley’s chief U.S. equity strategist Michael Wilson. While corporate earnings are accelerating, investors may be concerned about the pace of Federal Reserve interest rate reductions. Wilson also pointed out increased stress in funding markets, with the Federal Reserve halting its quantitative tightening program to address this issue. Wilson advises caution in certain market areas until these dynamics are resolved.

Kimberly-Clark’s announcement of acquiring Tylenol maker Kenvue for nearly $49 billion in cash and stock triggered a significant market reaction. Despite facing litigation risks associated with Tylenol and talc-related lawsuits against Kenvue, Kimberly-Clark’s CEO expressed confidence in the merger decision. The goal is to benefit from America’s aging population by combining personal care products with health and wellness offerings.

In another notable deal, Irish power management company Eaton has agreed to acquire the thermal business of Boyd Corp. for $9.5 billion. This acquisition is crucial in the data center sector, as nearly 90% of Boyd Thermal’s projected 2026 revenue is in liquid cooling. The increasing demand for electrical equipment in data centers globally is driving companies like Eaton to seize growth opportunities.

I also learned about various venture capital and private equity deals, such as Infravision raising $91 million, BP selling minority stakes in U.S pipeline assets, and Coeur Mining acquiring Canadian miner New Gold for around $7 billion. Additionally, there were updates on fundraising efforts, including March Capital raising up to $500 million for its fifth VC fund and Montagu raising a €2 billion single-asset continuation vehicle for portfolio company Wireless Logic. News about Coinbase’s advanced talks to acquire BVNK and Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk seeking to increase his voting power were also highlighted.

Stay Well!