Crypto

Netanyahu floats blockchain as way to bypass financial sanctions, sparking Israeli political spat

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (베냐민 네타냐후) has publicly raised the possibility of using blockchain and cryptocurrencies to respond to potential international financial sanctions. He said Israel is reviewing related technology to reduce any economic shock. Political opponents criticised the idea, with one calling it a national security threat, while the Bank of Israel said crypto cannot be used to bypass sanctions. Industry figures and local media also questioned its effectiveness.

AI & Enterprise

Baek Kyung-hoon says tax breaks for lease-type AI data centres under review, power rules to be eased

South Korea plans to pursue tax support for lease-type AI data centres and ease power regulations to spur investment, Vice Prime Minister and Science Minister Baek Kyung-hoon said. He told a parliamentary audit the government will discuss tax benefits for lease-type facilities with fiscal authorities to attract foreign capital. He also cited differences among ministries over thresholds for exempting non-capital region centres from grid impact assessments.