The hottest China Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

Corporations Offended By Free Speech Are Happy to Invest In Places Without It

Public • 303 implied HN points • 22 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics China
  1. Corporations withdrew advertising from platforms that embraced free speech due to concerns over associating with offensive content
  2. Some companies offended by free speech have no problem investing in countries with repressive speech environments
  3. The trend of corporations prioritizing 'brand safety' over free expression raises questions about their commitment to democratic values

Merry Chrismas

Pekingnology • 105 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🌐 International China
  1. The newsletter started in 2020 and has grown from 600 to over 17,500 subscribers. It's great to see it reach so many readers.
  2. The goal of the newsletter is to provide a deeper, more nuanced understanding of China. It aims to present a true and multi-faceted view of the country.
  3. Thanks were given to readers and contributors, highlighting the importance of teamwork in creating diverse content about China.

Xi Closes the Door for the Next Generation of Analysts

ChinaTalk • 415 implied HN points • 22 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics China
  1. Xi Jinping's policies are limiting opportunities for aspiring China watchers under his leadership.
  2. The avenues that previous generations had to study and work in China are becoming increasingly scarce.
  3. The restrictions imposed by the Chinese government, particularly under Xi's rule, are impacting international relations and understanding of China.
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Lessons from the Ultimate China Watcher: László Ladány

ChinaTalk • 415 implied HN points • 02 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics China
  1. China watching methodology by Ladány emphasizes understanding CCP through Chinese-language sources.
  2. US media must improve by decoupling from biased reporting and analyzing China's primary source material.
  3. Improving US-China relations requires analyzing Chinese-language sources, fostering Mandarin expertise, and engaging with CCP narratives.

Apple Squeezed; Russian Propaganda's Limits; No Cyber Pearl Harbor; Chinese Programmer's GitHub Earnings Confiscated; Russian Hackers Bribe Official

Natto Thoughts • 59 implied HN points • 06 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics China
  1. Apple faced challenges complying with Chinese regulations, leading to restrictions on its business in China, despite its efforts.
  2. US defense officials have revised assumptions about cyber warfare, realizing that cyber attacks may be less impactful in shooting wars than previously thought.
  3. A Chinese programmer had their earnings from GitHub confiscated by a local public security bureau for using a VPN, sparking concerns about the impact on professionals who rely on VPNs for work outside China.

China Joins the Name-and-Shame Game

Natto Thoughts • 59 implied HN points • 29 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics China
  1. China has shifted the practice of public cyber attribution from cybersecurity companies to government-led initiatives.
  2. Multiple Chinese government agencies, particularly the Ministry of State Security, are now actively involved in public cyber attribution against the US.
  3. China has increased the intensity and pace of public cyber attribution in 2023, calling out alleged US hacking activities several times and mirroring Western practices.

A Journey from Trans-Baikal to the Amur Through Manchuria - Peter Kropotkin, 1865 (1/4)

The Library of Alexandria Ultima • 6 implied HN points • 11 Dec 25
💾 History China
  1. Russia sought a much shorter overland route across Manchuria to connect Trans‑Baikal with Blagoveshchensk because the Amur and Argun form a long arc that made travel far longer. A direct route promised faster transport and would keep trade and silver under Russian control.
  2. A small caravan of Cossack hunters was sent to scout that straight route, carrying limited goods, forty horses, four carts, and about a month’s supplies to test markets and seek furs. The mission combined reconnaissance with trade and hunting to see if the route was practical and profitable.
  3. Russia’s mid‑19th‑century acquisition of the Amur and Ussuri regions and the later building of the Chinese Eastern Railway reshaped the frontier, shortened routes, and spurred colonization and new cities. Those strategic gains and the railway zone were later contested and changed hands after the Russian Revolution.

Mideast Crisis and Russia, Cyberspace, Disinformation; China Fears Weather Station Snooping; Belt and Road Milestone

Natto Thoughts • 39 implied HN points • 02 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics China
  1. The Mideast crisis impacts Russia and cyber warfare is playing a significant role in the conflict.
  2. Disinformation is rampant in the Mideast conflict, leading to widespread confusion and misinformation.
  3. China is dealing with foreign-related meteorological detection sites, worries about espionage, and celebrates the Belt and Road Initiative's 10th anniversary.

Safe Skies for Ukraine

Thinking about... • 168 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics China
  1. Congressional Republicans fail to address Ukraine without connecting it to the border issue
  2. Ukrainian resistance serves US interests by reducing risk of nuclear war and deterring China
  3. Support the Safe Skies project in Ukraine to protect critical infrastructure

China’s Russia Dilemma

The Upheaval • 315 implied HN points • 02 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics China
  1. China has not yet sent any arms to Russia, despite alleged considerations.
  2. China is conflicted about supporting Russia due to conflicting economic and diplomatic interests.
  3. Chinese material military support could significantly impact the Ukraine conflict in Russia's favor.

5️⃣ China's Future Through the Wubi Lens

Interconnected • 215 implied HN points • 30 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics China
  1. China has the flexibility to adapt and solve problems to avoid falling behind in technology.
  2. Predictions about China's future are uncertain and can often be inaccurate.
  3. China's historical approach to technology and modernity provides insights into its current challenges and decision-making.

China's Volt Typhoon Has Lived in Critical Networks for At Least Five Years

Metacurity • 19 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
📰 News China
  1. Chinese hacking group Volt Typhoon has been living in critical networks of some industries in the US for at least five years.
  2. Ransomware payments topped $1.1 billion in 2023, nearly doubling from the previous year, due to a surge in attacks.
  3. UN investigates 58 suspected cyberattacks by North Korea totaling $3 billion to fund its nuclear weapons program.

BRICS Meeting, China- and Russia-Friendly Peace Activists, Bootleg “Barbie,” Aesopian Language, Prigozhin

Natto Thoughts • 39 implied HN points • 25 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics China
  1. The BRICS Summit is significant for China, showcasing their strong interest in expanding cooperation with other countries.
  2. American peace activists have differing views on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, highlighting divisions within the peace advocacy community.
  3. Russians are finding creative ways to access content like pirated Barbie movies amidst government bans, showing a desire for diverse narratives.

Russian crisis actors in Ukraine; China’s “Old Friend” Henry Kissinger visits; Russian nuclear saber-rattling; China’s Law on Foreign Relations; Cyber risks in solar equipment

Natto Thoughts • 39 implied HN points • 28 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics China
  1. Russian disinformation involved staged stories by crisis actors to justify invasion of Ukraine.
  2. Henry Kissinger's visit to China signals US efforts to improve relations and China's strategic messaging.
  3. The implementation of China's Law on Foreign Relations strengthens China's global influence and emphasizes China-centric order.

🔋Is Ford’s Pause on CATL Plant Really About China?

Interconnected • 185 implied HN points • 02 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics China
  1. Ford's pause on the CATL plant is not primarily about China, but rather about leverage between Ford and the UAW in a labor strike.
  2. Multiple incentives and support were provided for the CATL-powered plant, despite CATL being a Chinese company.
  3. The uncomfortable reliance on Chinese technology by US EV makers like Ford is a mutual issue, not just a one-sided concern.

"As Israel-Gaza war drags on, China could rise as a peacemaker," Henry Huiyao Wang writes in South China Morning Post

Pekingnology • 94 implied HN points • 14 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics China
  1. China has the potential to be a peacemaker in the Israel-Gaza conflict due to its lack of historical baggage and economic influence.
  2. China's neutral stance and economic partnerships in the Middle East make it a trustworthy mediator.
  3. Dialogue, negotiation, and a two-state solution are emphasized as key steps for achieving peace in the region.

Davos 2024=Davos 2017?

The Future Does Not Fit In The Containers Of The Past • 89 implied HN points • 21 Jan 24
💼 Business China
  1. Key themes at Davos included AI impact, China's role, and concerns about trust and nationalism.
  2. Change happens slowly, focusing on long-lasting trends and signals rather than headlines and distractions.
  3. Companies need to adapt to AI, embrace transparency and purpose-driven strategies, and prioritize trust-building in business and marketing.

Back Story China-Russia

Dana’s Newsletter • 19 implied HN points • 23 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics China
  1. China and Russia are pursuing an agenda against free and Liberal democracies.
  2. Both nations seek to replace the U.S. dollar as the global currency and become the global superpower.
  3. China is adamant about taking Taiwan, even if it means armed conflict with NATO and America.

Book summary - India after Gandhi

Rahul’s Newsletter • 19 implied HN points • 20 Jun 23
💾 History China
  1. India survived challenges due to its diverse nature and lack of commonalities.
  2. Book 'India after Gandhi' covers historical events objectively, revealing major political misdeeds.
  3. Major highlights include the integration of princely states, the Kashmir issue, and constitutional developments.

Shen Weiguang – Father of China’s Information Warfare Theory, Who Could not Type

Natto Thoughts • 19 implied HN points • 09 Jun 23
💾 History China
  1. The concept of information warfare was introduced in China in the mid-1980s by Shen Weiguang, a self-taught military strategist who became known as the father of China's information warfare theory despite facing initial skepticism from publishers and having no military rank or affiliation.
  2. Shen Weiguang's interest in information warfare was sparked during his time at the frontline of the Battle of Laoshan, where he envisioned a more civilized form of warfare in the information age, leading him to publish his Information Warfare book in 1990.
  3. In 1998, Shen Weiguang made a global debut at the Ars Electronica Festival, showcasing his expertise in information warfare despite admitting he couldn't type or use computers, highlighting the core purpose of information warfare as subduing the enemy without direct conflict, drawing wisdom from ancient Chinese military strategist Sun Tzu.

Hacker “Bentley” indicted; China weaponizing vulnerabilities; Journalists suspect poisoning; Breakfast on the Verge of the Apocalypse; Free WIFI in China comes with a cost; Disinformation wins a round

Natto Thoughts • 19 implied HN points • 08 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics China
  1. Russian hackers 'Bentley' have used Trickbot and Conti malware to steal funds, leading to indictments and sanctions from the US and UK.
  2. China has a system that nationalizes vulnerability disclosures, sharing data with agencies like the CNCERT/CC and Ministry of Public Security, raising concerns.
  3. Journalist Elena Kostyuchenko suspected of being poisoned, highlights the dangers faced by critical journalists in Russia, with a forthcoming book 'I Love Russia'.

Jia Qingguo calls on Beijing to relax control to encourage non-govt efforts to tell China's story

Pekingnology • 56 implied HN points • 06 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics China
  1. General Secretary Xi Jinping emphasizes the importance of telling China's story well to enhance international communication; there's a need for improvement as some countries show a decline in positive views toward China.
  2. Challenges in telling China's story abroad include misconceptions that it's solely the government's responsibility, restrictions on non-govt interactions, and lack of incentives for leaders in foreign affairs.
  3. Recommendations to address these challenges include raising awareness about public participation, reducing restrictions on exchanges, and encouraging retired officials to engage in foreign activities.

Xi Jinping promises a new wave of "reform" since 2013

Pekingnology • 52 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics China
  1. China is planning for further comprehensive reforms, aligning with previous reform initiatives.
  2. Xi Jinping aims to address development challenges through reform and opening up, emphasizing the need for focused, high-quality measures.
  3. The process of implementing the new reform package will involve extensive engagement with various stakeholders to gather input and experiences.

Giấc mơ Mỹ

Thái | Hacker | Kỹ sư tin tặc • 139 implied HN points • 28 Jun 20
🌍 World Politics China
  1. Visa policies, like H1B, can greatly impact individuals seeking job opportunities in the US.
  2. Immigrants have historically played a significant role in American innovation and economic success.
  3. Remote work due to COVID-19 and restrictive immigration policies may shift the job market, offering opportunities for countries like Vietnam to attract global talent.

Is China Preparing for War?

Pekingnology • 79 implied HN points • 26 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics China
  1. The article may have misunderstood routine practices and legal changes in China.
  2. Xi Jinping's speeches contained familiar messaging that aligns with past Chinese leadership.
  3. Understanding the nuances of language and context in Chinese official statements is key to interpreting the situation accurately.

China's Premier just consulted these economists. What's their view on the economy?

Pekingnology • 67 implied HN points • 08 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics China
  1. Economists discussed the challenges in China's economy and emphasized the need for strong fiscal and monetary policies with institutional reforms.
  2. There is a call for active participation in global digital economic and trade agreements, establishment of open capital markets, and alignment with international provisions.
  3. Encouraging innovation in the financial market requires a tolerant approach to failure, role of long-term institutional investors, less frequent information disclosure, open capital markets, and stable macro policy orientation.

New Top Document Promoting China's Private Economy

Pekingnology • 60 implied HN points • 19 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics China
  1. The Chinese government has issued a document to promote and support the development of the country's private economy.
  2. The document emphasizes creating a fair and transparent business environment, protecting property rights, and fostering innovation in private enterprises.
  3. It also encourages social responsibility, international competitiveness, and the active participation of private enterprises in major national strategies.

Chinese banks scrutinize trade payments from Russia: report

Pekingnology • 37 implied HN points • 21 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics China
  1. Chinese banks are closely reviewing trade payments from Russia, causing disruptions for Chinese companies involved in business transactions.
  2. Major Chinese banks, including state-owned ones, are halting payments from sanctioned Russian financial institutions, leading to challenges for traders in various regions of China.
  3. The heightened scrutiny on remittances related to Russia by Chinese banks reflects the changing regulatory environment post third quarter of last year, impacting cross-border transactions and requiring stricter due diligence.

Chinese, U.S. Readouts of Qin-Blinken meeting in Beijing

Pekingnology • 60 implied HN points • 18 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics China
  1. The meeting between Chinese and U.S. officials in Beijing emphasized the importance of open communication to stabilize their relationship.
  2. China highlighted the need for the U.S. to respect its core interests, especially regarding the Taiwan issue.
  3. Both sides agreed to continue high-level exchanges, maintain dialogue, and work towards stabilizing China-U.S. relations.

March 2022 Tech Buzz China Newsletter

Tech Buzz China Insider • 39 implied HN points • 01 Mar 22
🕹 Technology China
  1. Tech Buzz China's newsletter focuses on upcoming livecasts on China gaming and Chinese Gen Z, a new website version, and the latest episodes on China markets & macro and the e-CNY.
  2. Livecasts by Tech Buzz China feature experts discussing topics like China markets & macro, the e-CNY, and China's digital yuan, offering insightful perspectives and analyses.
  3. The newsletter delves into China's tech landscape, highlighting the distinction between 'soft tech' and 'hard tech' sectors, emphasizing the importance of technology that aids the real economy.