AI slowdown & market shock: US lab leaders’ calls to slow frontier AI development helped trigger a broad sell-off in AI and semiconductor stocks across Asia, with SoftBank hit and chipmakers pressured. China’s stance on AI governance: Beijing rejected “threat/conflict” AI narratives and urged open, human-welfare-first governance, while also pushing back on US calls for guardrails. Hong Kong in the AI funding race: Z.AI raised about $5bn via share and convertible bond sales, and Moonshot is reported to be exploring dual listings in Hong Kong and Shanghai as it targets a $2bn annual revenue run-rate ahead of an IPO. Mars materials research: HKUST researchers propose 3D-printed “living” building material using gelatin, yeast and sand that can survive simulated Martian conditions. Local tech ecosystem push: Hong Kong Talent Engage ran an international hackathon and brought winners to Cyberport, HK Science Park and GBA innovation sites. Smart mobility demo: Zürich Airport tested Europe’s first live SAE Level 4 driverless L4 bus operations with remote intervention capability. Finance & wealth tech: HSBC launched WorldTrader in Qatar, a digital platform for trading across up to 25 markets and 77 exchanges. Policy watch: Hong Kong’s PSD said it’s reviewing a Singapore paper alleging civil servants bought homes near planned MRT stations, with possible referral to anti-corruption authorities.