Stock Market News·2026-01-07 05:08Economic Relations - China has imposed an immediate ban on the export of dual-use items to Japan and is considering stricter controls on rare earth elements, a move seen as retaliation against Japan's comments on Taiwan [2][8] - Japanese manufacturers, especially in the electric vehicle and defense sectors, are highly vulnerable due to their reliance on China for heavy rare earths, with potential losses estimated at ¥660 billion ($4.2 billion) for a three-month disruption and ¥2.6 trillion ($16.4 billion) for a year-long restriction [3][8] Market Performance - Chinese equity markets have started 2026 with strong momentum, as the Shanghai Composite Index surged 1.40% to close at 4,023.42 points, marking its highest level in nearly a decade [4][8] - The rally is primarily driven by technology sectors, with semiconductors up 5.60% and AI stocks gaining between 3.20% and 3.7%, with analysts predicting further growth of 10-20% for Chinese equities in the coming years [5][8] Energy Sector Developments - Chevron and Quantum Energy Partners are among the bidders for Lukoil's international assets, valued at approximately $22 billion, as Lukoil divests under U.S. sanctions [6][8] Regulatory Challenges - Social media platform X, owned by Elon Musk, has been fined €120 million by the European Commission for multiple breaches of the Digital Services Act, marking a significant regulatory challenge [7][8]