Asia’s business landscape is seeing a fresh wave of activity across fintech, artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure and investment. Companies are expanding into new markets, pursuing acquisitions and increasing spending on technologies expected to shape the region’s next phase of growth. Financial platforms are strengthening their presence in key markets, while AI firms and electronics manufacturers are scaling operations to meet rising demand for advanced computing.
At the same time, investors and governments are backing strategic technology sectors, reflecting growing competition across Asia’s digital economy. From brokerage consolidation and AI funding to server manufacturing and technology expansion, these developments highlight how businesses are adapting to changing consumer demand, supply chains and the accelerating pace of digital transformation.
eToro Agrees to Acquire TradeZero for Up to $231 Million
eToro has agreed to acquire US-focused online brokerage TradeZero in a deal valued at up to $231 million. The acquisition is aimed at strengthening eToro’s presence in the United States and expanding its active-trader offering. The transaction combines cash with up to 2.5 million newly issued eToro Class A common shares. The deal is expected to close in the first half of 2027, subject to regulatory approvals.
- TradeZero serves active traders across the US, Canada and other international markets.
- The brokerage generated about $80 million in revenue during the 12 months ended June 2026.
- eToro expects the acquisition to contribute positively to adjusted profit during its first full year after closing.
Indian Kids Audio Startup Wippi Raises $1.2 Million Seed Funding
Indian kids’ audio startup Wippi has raised $1.2 million in seed funding. The Bengaluru-based company is developing screen-free, AI-powered products for children. Its platform combines interactive storytelling, voice conversations and physical story cards. The startup aims to offer children an alternative to conventional screen-based entertainment.
- Wippi targets children roughly between four and eight years old.
- Its products use voice technology and physical content to encourage screen-free engagement.
- The company was founded by Siddhartha Jain and Rishabh Singhi.
LinkedIn to Shut Israel Office and Lay Off Nearly All Staff
LinkedIn is planning to close its Israeli development centre and cut most of its local workforce. The office employs around 50 people and was established after LinkedIn acquired Israeli startup Oribi. The closure forms part of broader restructuring across the technology sector. LinkedIn will continue its wider business activities in Israel despite the development centre’s closure.
- LinkedIn acquired Oribi in 2022 for an estimated $80 million-$90 million.
- Almost the entire local development workforce is expected to be affected.
- The decision comes amid wider restructuring across Israel’s technology industry.
Meta Moves to Unwind $2 Billion Manus AI Acquisition
Meta is moving to unwind its roughly $2 billion acquisition of AI startup Manus. The move follows an order from Chinese authorities requiring the transaction to be reversed. The development highlights growing government scrutiny of AI companies with Chinese connections. It also shows how geopolitical tensions are increasingly influencing major technology deals.
- Meta has reportedly separated Manus from its internal systems and stopped data sharing.
- Chinese authorities raised concerns related to technology transfers and national security.
- Manus’ founders have reportedly explored raising fresh funding to regain control.
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Compal Expands Taiwan, Vietnam and US Footprint for AI Servers
Taiwanese electronics manufacturer Compal Electronics is expanding across Taiwan, Vietnam and the United States. The company is increasing its focus on AI servers as demand for computing infrastructure accelerates. Its expansion is also aimed at creating a more diversified and resilient manufacturing network. The strategy reflects a wider shift among Asian electronics companies toward regional production.
- Compal’s Texas facility is expected to begin mass production of AI servers in the second half of 2026.
- The company is expanding high-end server and liquid-cooling capacity in Taiwan.
- Compal aims to raise the contribution of servers to revenue to around 10% by the end of 2026.
