Global AI Competition Intensifies with Focus on Open Models, US-China Rivalry, and National Strategies

Key Intelligence

• ■The global AI race is intensifying, with the US currently holding a lead over China, though China's open-source AI models are emerging as influential global standards.
• ■A significant debate is shifting towards the advantages and disadvantages of open versus closed AI models, impacting development and deployment strategies.
• ■India is actively developing its AI capabilities, with calls from former ISRO Chairman for larger AI models to tackle social issues, complemented by a government-Intel program to skill its future workforce in agentic AI.
• ■Traders are increasingly investing in bullish Chinese stock bets for AI alternatives, reflecting growing confidence in China's AI market.
• ■ASEAN nations are urged to consolidate their AI strategies to effectively navigate and leverage the ongoing technological competition between the US and China.