BusinessPolicy

U.S. Bankruptcy Watchdog Calls for Independent Examiner in First Brands Collapse Investigation

The U.S. bankruptcy watchdog has requested an independent investigation into First Brands’ collapse, citing potential management misconduct. The auto parts manufacturer faces allegations of financial irregularities including missing billions from company accounts.

Government Watchdog Seeks Independent Probe

The U.S. government’s bankruptcy watchdog has formally requested an independent examination of First Brands Group, according to recent court filings. The Office of the U.S. Trustee, a division of the U.S. Department of Justice that oversees bankruptcy proceedings, has asked a judge to appoint an examiner to investigate the auto parts manufacturer’s sudden collapse.

Business

Salesforce Foundation Board Member Resigns Following CEO’s Political Stance on National Guard Deployment

Longtime Salesforce Foundation board member Ron Conway has resigned following CEO Marc Benioff’s controversial political comments. The venture capitalist cited fundamental value differences over Benioff’s support for President Trump and proposed National Guard deployment in San Francisco, ending their 25-year professional relationship.

Board Resignation Over Political Differences

A prominent venture capital investor has resigned from the Salesforce Foundation board following controversial political comments by Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff, according to reports obtained by The New York Times. Ron Conway, who had served on the philanthropic board for a decade, submitted his resignation through a strongly worded email that expressed fundamental disagreements with Benioff’s recent statements.

BusinessTrade

Microsoft Joins Growing Tech Exodus from Chinese Manufacturing Amid Trade Tensions

Microsoft has asked suppliers to prepare “out of China” production for Surface laptops and servers, sources indicate. The move comes as Trump threatens 100% tariffs and China tightens rare earth controls, creating compounding pressure on Big Tech’s supply chains.

Microsoft’s Manufacturing Shift Accelerates

Microsoft has reportedly become the latest Big Tech giant to begin decoupling its manufacturing operations from China, according to sources briefed on the matter who spoke to Nikkei Asia. The company has asked multiple suppliers to prepare “out of China” production for its Surface laptop computers and data center servers, with plans to manufacture components and assemble products outside China starting as early as 2026.