Nvidia probe and TikTok deadline loom over U.S.-China trade talks

Core Points - U.S. and Chinese trade negotiations are ongoing in Madrid, focusing on key issues such as tariff rates, export controls, and the divestment of TikTok [1][2] - The talks represent the fourth round of bilateral meetings in four months, following a previous agreement to pause steep tariffs and reduce mutual restrictions [3] - U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated progress on technical details and a potential agreement on TikTok, despite aggressive demands from the Chinese side [3][4] Trade and Economic Relations - The negotiations are led by high-level officials from both countries, with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer representing the U.S., while Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and top negotiator Li Chenggang represent China [2] - Recent tensions have escalated, particularly with China launching investigations into the U.S. semiconductor industry, including anti-dumping and anti-discrimination probes [4][5] - The U.S. added 23 more China-based companies to its entity list, prompting China's market regulator to investigate Nvidia for potential anti-competition violations [5][6] Industry Implications - Nvidia has become a focal point in the negotiations, with its situation being used as leverage by both the U.S. and China [6] - The ongoing investigations into Nvidia are perceived as part of China's negotiation tactics to assert its position against the U.S. [6]