Monday Read: Daylight Time, China Tariffs, Japan's startup support

Good Morning!

Today is March 10th, 2025.

At 2 AM, daylight saving time officially began. Just like that, an hour vanished overnight—sudden, inevitable, and a bit disorienting. Change, no matter the size, can be hard to swallow. And today brings more than just a shift in time.

Tariff Tensions Escalate

Also starting today, March 10, China’s counter-tariffs on selected U.S. goods—primarily agricultural products—go into effect. Beijing has warned that if the U.S. insists on provoking conflicts, whether through trade wars or other means, it is prepared to "fight to the end."

This back-and-forth tariff battle shows no signs of slowing and could escalate further.

On Sunday’s talk shows, several guests voiced concerns about rising U.S.-China tensions. Massachusetts Representative Seth Moulton, appearing on MSNBC, warned that the "chances of war' with China are going up dramatically".

Daylight Saving Time - a Change you Can feel

Changes come quickly, from all directions—like the clock shifting overnight. When you wake up today, it's already 8 AM, not 7. Have you felt it yet?

This annual ritual of pushing the clock forward may seem small, but it can throw off our bodies. Humans thrive on routine, and disruptions—whether in time, trade, or geopolitics—bring stress, discomfort, and even health risks.

Even Washington, D.C., isn’t sleeping. A recent Washington Post piece highlighted growing anxiety in the capital, with Elon Musk and his DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) team reportedly working around the clock, while federal workers brace for uncertainty.

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Top Tips to Ease the Transition:

1. Adjust Gradually – A few days before the time change, start shifting your bedtime and wake-up time by 15-20 minutes to help your body adapt.
2. Prioritize Sleep Hygiene – Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends. Avoid screens before bed and keep your room cool and dark.
3. Get Morning Sunlight – Natural light in the morning helps reset your internal clock, making it easier to adjust to the new schedule.
4. Be Mindful of Caffeine and Alcohol – These can disrupt your sleep patterns, making it harder to fall asleep and stay rested.
5. Stay Active – Regular physical activity can help regulate your body's rhythm and improve sleep quality.
6. Give Yourself Grace – It’s normal to feel a bit off for a few days. Listen to your body and allow time to adjust.

Japan Hosts Biotech Support Workshop

Meanwhile, across the Pacific, Japan is focusing on economic growth. This afternoon, the Keisansho InnoHub Startup Support System Vol. 2 workshop will explore strategies for expanding biotech startups into global markets.

According to the event organizer, speakers from companies that have successfully expanded overseas will share insights and lessons learned.

For more details, please check out the link: https://www.link-j.org/events/article-45655.html

Thanks for reading!

I will see you on Wednesday.

(Comments? email me at brianhxyang @yahoo.com)