Germany July seasonally adjusted exports MoM -0.8% (exp +0.1%; prior +0.9%).

Hong Kong application-software stocks slid intraday: Tuya Smart (02391.HK) fell more than 9.5%, MiniMax (00100.HK) and Weimob (02013.HK) each dropped about 7%, Zhipu (02513.HK) declined nearly 6.5%, Qunhe Technology (00068.HK) slipped about 4% and Kingdee International (00268.HK) fell over 2%.

Tokyo-based startup Preferred Networks is preparing for an IPO to scale production of custom AI chips as global clients seek lower procurement and operating costs and reduced reliance on NVIDIA. CEO Daisuke Okanohara said the company plans to deliver its latest chip samples to customers in 1H next year, targets commercial launches in December 2027, and aims to be profitable within three years while preparing for a listing. Okanohara said the business requires substantially larger scale than previously expected to meet demand for NVIDIA accelerator alternatives.