U.S. AI leader Anthropic has expanded its restrictions on Chinese entities, taking a firm stance against access to its advanced AI models—including the renowned Claude chatbot—by any company or subsidiary more than 50% owned, directly or indirectly, by Chinese organizations. This updated AI policy is designed to block loopholes that previously allowed access to powerful AI tools via overseas affiliates, joint ventures, or cloud providers, reinforcing Anthropic’s commitment to responsible technology governance and the protection of sensitive data.

Driven by rising national security and regulatory concerns, Anthropic’s move highlights potential risks involving companies subject to Chinese jurisdiction, which could be compelled to cooperate with state intelligence and share critical information. The sweeping policy marks the first public, formal ban by a major U.S. AI company based on entity ownership and control, rather than only geographic boundaries, ultimately intensifying scrutiny on AI exports and global tech supply chains.

While the immediate business impact is expected to be modest, experts consider this a landmark decision that may set industry-wide precedents, prompting other U.S. tech giants to reevaluate their own AI export and usage policies. This development not only heightens the U.S.–China tech rivalry but also shapes the future landscape of AI governance, data security, and international compliance in a rapidly evolving digital world.

Apple has set a new benchmark in India, recording $9 billion in annual sales for FY25—a 13% surge over the prior year, fueled chiefly by robust demand for iPhones and MacBooks. The tech giant’s strategic expansion into Bengaluru and Pune with new flagship stores has deepened brand engagement and increased accessibility for customers across urban centers.

Apple’s rapid retail footprint expansion and locally tailored initiatives, including student discounts and trade-in offers, overcame price barriers and high import duties to drive sales volumes to unprecedented heights. Meanwhile, local production reached new highs, with 20% of iPhones now assembled in India and manufacturing output up 60%, valued at $22 billion part of Apple’s move to diversify its global supply chain.

India is now Apple’s fourth-largest market worldwide, reflecting its rising role as both a consumption and manufacturing powerhouse for premium tech. Continued investment in retail outlets, partnerships with Tata for device repairs, and consumer-friendly financing have positioned Apple for even stronger growth as Indian incomes and technology aspirations rise.

OYO, India’s leading hospitality startup, has retained strong profitability in FY25, driven by a significant deferred tax gain and a bold corporate identity overhaul. The company’s net profit surged to ₹623 crore, marking a 172% year-on-year growth, with adjusted EBITDA reaching ₹1,132 crore a 27% increase from the previous fiscal. Total revenue rose by 20% to ₹6,463 crore, propelled by strategic expansion in premium segments and the integration of G6 Hospitality into OYO’s growing portfolio.

The deferred tax gain of ₹765.6 crore played a crucial role in OYO’s profitability for FY25, helping overcome challenges from operational losses and global expansion costs. Meanwhile, OYO launched a campaign to rename its parent company, Oravel Stays Ltd, aiming for a tech-first, globally resonant brand identity as the business prepares for its IPO. This rebranding signals OYO’s shift toward broader urban living solutions, with the “OYO Hotels” brand remaining unchanged for consumers while the corporate entity targets premium and tech-driven markets worldwide.

OYO’s premiumization strategy and aggressive international growth have led to record results for the fourth quarter of FY25, with gross booking value surging 54% to ₹16,436 crore and revenue hitting new highs. These achievements highlight OYO’s disciplined financial management and commitment to innovation, setting a benchmark for Indian startups navigating global expansion and sustained profitability in the hospitality technology sector.