NOVEMBERASIA BUSINESS OUTLOOK8Intel has agreed to acquire Israeli quantum computing software startup Classiq in a deal valued at around $2.3 billion. The acquisition is expected to bring together Intel's experience in semiconductor manufacturing and quantum hardware with Classiq's software, which helps developers design quantum computing applications.The deal comes as Intel looks to expand its business beyond traditional semiconductors and strengthen its position in emerging computing technologies. By combining hardware and software capabilities, the company aims to make quantum computing easier to develop and use. The acquisition is expected to help Intel build a more complete quantum computing business as the technology moves towards wider commercial use. Ant Group is upgrading its artificial intelligence assistant, LingGuang, with new features designed to help users manage tasks proactively, remember preferences and perform actions across different applications. The development marks a shift from conventional AI assistants that primarily respond to prompts towards personal AI agents that can handle tasks requiring continued attention and follow-up. The upgraded version, known as LingGuang 2.0, has entered limited testing, with a broader rollout reportedly planned for October 2026. The move reflects growing competition among technology companies to develop AI systems that can do more than answer questions or generate content. Instead, these systems aim to manage everyday activities, respond to changing circumstances and complete tasks with less continuous input from users. OCBC is encouraging its 33,000 employees to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can make their work easier and more efficient through an AI hackathon. The initiative aims to help employees understand the technology, find practical ways to use it and develop ideas that could improve daily operations and customer service. The move comes as banks across the world increase their use of AI to improve productivity, manage risks and deliver better services.While many financial institutions are investing in new AI tools, they also recognise the need to train employees to use these technologies effectively. OCBC's initiative reflects this approach by involving its workforce in finding ways to apply AI to everyday banking tasks. OCBC has been developing its AI capabilities for several years. The bank established a dedicated AI unit in 2018 to explore how the technology could support its operations and improve services. Taiwan's central bank expects strong demand for technology products to support the island's exports through 2027. Growing investment in artificial intelligence (AI) and rising demand for semiconductors are expected to remain key drivers of economic activity. Taiwan's technology industry has benefited from the global push to develop AI systems and expand data centre capacity.However, the central bank expects economic growth to slow in 2027 after a strong performance in 2026. While technology exports are likely to remain strong, maintaining this year's growth rate could be difficult. Demand for AI-related products is expected to continue supporting Taiwan's export industry. The growing use of AI has increased the need for advanced chips, computing equipment and other technology products, creating opportunities for Taiwanese manufacturers. INTEL TO ACQUIRE CLASSIQ IN $2.3 BILLION QUANTUM COMPUTING DEALOCBC LAUNCHES AI HACKATHON TO BUILD SKILLS ACROSS 33,000 EMPLOYEESANT GROUP UPGRADES LINGGUANG WITH NEW PROACTIVE AI FEATURESTAIWAN EXPECTS STRONG TECH DEMAND TO SUPPORT EXPORTS INTO 2027NEWSROOM
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