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FOREWORD
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USA TARIFFS AND THEIR EFFECT ON INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN APAC
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THE FEASIBILITY AND FUTURE OF LUNAR FACTORIES: PLANS, DEBATES, AND CHALLENGES
AIX LIVE: THE FUTURE OF LIVE, IMMERSIVE ENTERTAINMENT
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THE PROS AND CONS OF MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS: A BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE
INTRODUCING SHERIF ALAA
ALL ABOUT THE SHEMAGH
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MANCHESTER: THE UK’S SECOND CITY STEPS INTO THE SPOTLIGHT
2025
MOHAMMAD AL DUAIJ
Welcome to another edition of The Alea Journal
I’m sure we can all agree that there are days when we wish we could work somewhere other than planet earth That could one day be the reality, as we investigate in this issue various plans to create manufacturing on the moon
How moon tariffs might work is a question for another issue, but we have spent some time looking over the subject of tariffs between the USA and various countries to study the effects
Investing in the APAC region may be a course of action you are considering taking, in which case you can read our guide and perhaps join us at our APAC Family Office Investment Summit in September
Possible investments to be presented at the European Summit include the groundbreaking AIX immersive venues, which aim to bring new forms of entertainment to locations all over the world, and you can read about that in this issue,
We have also covered the topic of mergers and acquisitions, including some pros and cons to consider
If it’s your health you ’ re considering, you can
read about the supreme personal training services of Sherif Alaa, an Egyptian entrepreneur we have profiled.
A little cultural education for those who don’t know the significance of the shemaghyou can find out everything you need to know in this issue,
And finally, as we are celebrating our Europe Family Office Investment Summit, we have presented as our travel feature the UK’s ‘second city’ of Manchester
As ever, you can contact me at info@aleaglobalgroup.com
As of May 2025, the United States has significantly escalated its use of tariffs as a central tool in its trade policy under President Donald Trump’s administration. These measures have far-reaching implications for global trade dynamics, affecting key partners such as the European Union (EU), China, Canada, and Mexico
In April 2025, President Trump invoked the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to implement a baseline 10% tariff on imports from all countries, citing concerns over trade deficits and lack of reciprocity Additionally, higher tariffs ranging from 11% to 50% were imposed on 57 specific countries starting April 9, 2025
A particularly contentious move was the announcement of a 50% tariff on all EU imports, initially set to take effect on June 1, 2025 However, following discussions with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the implementation was delayed until July 9, 2025, to allow for further negotiations.
The proposed 50% tariff on EU goods has raised significant concerns within the bloc, particularly in Germany, the EU's largest exporter to the U S German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil emphasized the mutual interest in resolving the dispute swiftly, warning that such tariffs would harm both economies
The EU has prepared retaliatory measures, including tariffs on nearly €100 billion worth of U.S. imports, targeting sectors such as aircraft, automobiles, and medical devices . The escalating tensions have led to market volatility, with European stock indices experiencing declines following tariff announcements.
U S -China trade relations have also been strained In early 2025, the U.S. imposed a 145% tariff on Chinese imports, which was later reduced to 30% following a 90-day truce beginning May 12
Despite this temporary easing, underlying issues such as industrial overcapacity and national security concerns continue to complicate negotiations
China has responded with its own set of tariffs and export controls, affecting a range of U S goods and critical minerals, further intensifying the trade conflict
In March 2025, the U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on all Canadian imports, excluding energy products, which faced a 10% tariff.
This move was justified by the U S as a measure against illegal immigration and drug traffickingspecifically fentanyl Canada retaliated with 25% tariffs on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods and planned additional tariffs
Similarly, Mexico faced U S tariffs, leading to heightened tensions.
Both countries have criticized the U.S. actions as violations of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), with concerns over disrupted supply chains and increased consumer prices.
Analysts have raised concerns about the broader economic impact of the U S tariff strategy The Tax Foundation estimates that the tariffs will amount to an average tax increase of over $1,190 per U S household in 2025, with potential reductions in after-tax incomes and overall economic growth.
Furthermore, the European Commission's analysis indicates that the imposition of tariffs weakens the U S economy and has moderate negative effects on EU GDP
Retaliatory measures exacerbate these impacts, leading to decreased exports and increased unemployment
The current U S tariff policies have introduced significant uncertainty into global trade relations
While intended to address trade imbalances and protect domestic industries, the measures have led to retaliatory actions, strained diplomatic ties, and potential economic drawbacks both domestically and internationally.
As negotiations continue, the global community watches closely, hoping for resolutions that will stabilize trade dynamics and promote mutual economic growth
The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region continues to assert itself as one of the most dynamic and promising investment destinations globally
With robust economic fundamentals, a rising middle class, digital transformation, and strategic geopolitical significance, APAC offers a compelling landscape for international investors over the next five years
We explore the key growth sectors and broader macroeconomic trends that make APAC a hotspot for forward-looking capital
Why APAC?
Several structural and demographic factors make APAC uniquely attractive:
Population and Urbanisation: Home to over 60% of the world’s population, APAC is witnessing rapid urbanisation, particularly in countries like India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines
Rising Middle Class: With income levels climbing steadily consumer demand across the region is shifting towards premium goods, healthcare, and digital services.
Government Policy Support: Economic liberalisation, digital infrastructure spending, and green energy initiatives
across the region are providing a tailwind for private investment.
Strategic Location: APAC is central to global trade routes and supply chains, making it critical to the future of logistics, manufacturing, and technology
Key Sectors Poised for Growth
1. Technology and Digital Infrastructure
From India’s burgeoning tech ecosystem to Singapore’s smart city initiatives and Indonesia’s digital banking boom, APAC is experiencing a digital renaissance
Cloud Computing & AI: Countries like Japan, South Korea, and Singapore are leading in the adoption of AI and edge computing, with startups across the region innovating in fintech, logistics, and healthtech
Data Centers: With digital usage soaring, investment in data centers is skyrocketing in markets such as Malaysia, India, and Thailand
E-Commerce: Southeast Asia’s internet economy is expected to hit $330 billion by 2025 (Google/Temasek report), with Indonesia and Vietnam leading the way
As nations commit to net-zero targets, renewable energy projects are expanding rapidly
Solar and Wind: India and China are scaling solar and wind farms at pace, while Australia is a leader in energy transition projects and green hydrogen
EVs and Battery Tech: South Korea and China are dominant players in EV batteries, with opportunities also emerging in supply chain components in Southeast Asia
The pandemic catalyzed public and private investment in health innovation, a trend that is here to stay
Telemedicine and Digital Health: Growing fast in India and Southeast Asia due to lack of traditional infrastructure in rural regions.
Biotech and Pharmaceuticals: Singapore is becoming a hub for biotech innovation, while China’s pharmaceutical sector continues to expand with regulatory reforms supporting innovation
Fintech adoption in APAC is among the highest in the world, driven by high mobile penetration and underbanked populations
Digital Payments: UPI in India, QR-code payments in China, and e-wallets in Southeast Asia have transformed consumer behavior
Decentralised Finance (DeFi): APAC has early adopter markets (e.g., South Korea, Hong Kong) showing interest in cryptofinancial services, although regulation remains key
5 Manufacturing and Supply Chain Diversification
In light of global trade tensions and pandemic disruptions, APAC has become a manufacturing pivot
“China Plus One” Strategy: Countries like Vietnam, India, and Indonesia are benefiting from multinational companies looking to diversify production away from China
Advanced Manufacturing: Japan and South Korea continue to invest in robotics, smart factories, and Industry 4 0 technologies
Investors should weigh opportunities against potential challenges:
Geopolitical Tensions: US-China relations, cross-strait tensions with Taiwan, and South China Sea disputes can impact stability
Regulatory Volatility: Markets like China may present regulatory surprises, particularly in tech and education.
Currency and Interest Rate Risk: Varying inflation and monetary policies across APAC can affect returns, particularly in emerging markets
With diverse economies at different stages of development, APAC offers a broad spectrum of investment opportunities
Investors who can navigate local regulations, understand cultural nuances, and manage geopolitical risk are well-positioned to capitalise on the region’s rapid transformation
Over the next five years, sectors such as technology, renewables, healthcare, and digital finance will be at the forefront, making APAC not just an option but a strategic imperative for global portfolios
Join us at our APAC summit
By attending our next summit you can network with potential partners in the region and find out everything you need to know to expertly navigate these challenges
As space agencies and private companies set their sights on establishing a sustained human presence on the Moon, one ambitious concept has gained traction: building factories on the lunar surface.
The idea, once relegated to science fiction, is now being seriously considered by NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA), China’s National Space Administration (CNSA), and private firms like SpaceX and Blue Origin Let’s examine existing plans, public discussions, and the key advantages and challenges of lunar manufacturing
NASA’s Artemis Program and In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU)
NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon by 2026, includes plans for sustainable lunar infrastructure
A key component is In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) using local materials to manufacture essentials like oxygen, water, and construction materials NASA has funded projects such as:
The Lunar Regolith (Moon dust) Processing Plants – Extracting metals and oxygen for life support and rocket fuel
3D-Printed Habitats – Using robotic systems to construct shelters from lunar soil.
NASA has partnered with companies like ICON (which specializes in 3D printing) and Redwire Space (developing regolith-based manufacturing) to test these technologies on Earth before lunar deployment
The European Space Agency has proposed a "Moon Village" a collaborative, multinational base where industries could operate
ESA has explored:
Solar Panel Production – Using lunar silicon to build solar farms
Metal Extraction – Smelting iron and aluminum from lunar rocks for construction.
ESA has held workshops with academic and industry experts to discuss the viability of such factories, including a 2022 symposium on ‘Manufacturing in Space’
China’s CNSA, in partnership with Russia’s Roscosmos, plans to build an International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) by the 2030s. Reports suggest that China is researching:
Helium-3 Mining – For potential fusion energy (though this remains speculative)
Ceramics and Glass Production – Using lunar minerals for construction
SpaceX – Elon Musk has hinted at using Starship to transport industrial equipment to the Moon
Blue Origin – Jeff Bezos’ company has proposed using lunar resources to support future space colonies
Startups like OffWorld – Developing autonomous robots for mining and manufacturing in space
The topic has been widely discussed in forums such as:
The International Astronautical Congress (IAC) – Where experts debate lunar industrialization.
NASA’s ISRU Advisory Board Meetings –Assessing technical and economic feasibility
Space Resources Roundtable – An annual conference on off-Earth mining and manufacturing
1. Reduced Launch Costs –Manufacturing on the Moon avoids the high cost of transporting materials from Earth
2 Sustainable Space Exploration –Producing fuel and oxygen onsite enables deeper space missions
3. Economic Opportunities –Potential industries include rare mineral extraction, lunar tourism, and scientific research
4 Technological Innovation –Advances in robotics, 3D printing, and AI for autonomous operations
1 Extreme Environment – Harsh temperatures, radiation, and abrasive lunar dust pose engineering hurdles
2 High Initial Costs – Setting up infrastructure will require billions in investment
3 Legal and Regulatory Issues – The Outer Space Treaty (1967) prohibits national appropriation, raising questions over property rights.
4 Unproven Technology – Many proposed methods (e g , regolith processing) are still in experimental stages
While lunar factories remain a longterm goal, significant progress is being made in research and testing The next decade will likely see robotic missions laying groundwork for future industrial activity
If successful, lunar manufacturing could revolutionize space exploration and even Earth’s economy but substantial technical, financial, and legal challenges must first be overcome
AIX Live is a UK-based immersive technology start-up which represents a new paradigm for the future of live entertainment.
AIX is on a mission to ‘Bring Immersive to Your Neighbourhood’ by leading innovation in immersive tech to disrupt live performance, media distribution and shared experiences.
So what does that look like?
Imagine stepping into an AIX venue in your local shopping centre, in a hotel, or on your high street, to watch a football match or cultural festival live on a big screen. The venue is relaxed, like a cafe, rather than a cinema or theatre, with space to socialise
Through cutting edge digital technologies, the venue connects you in real time with fans around the world who are watching the same broadcast On your AIX messaging app, you can chat with friends, order your favourite food to your table, and celebrate every goal or favourite song with synchronised lighting and music
Between the live events are opportunities to see other kinds of big screen entertainment, all with AIX’s unique AI-powered ‘kaleidoscopic storytelling’ model; The use of AI for real-time adaptation of a core experience depending on who is in the audience! That could mean the same immersive, nature documentary enhanced for a venue full of kids or PhD biology students Even multiple different languages catered for the same piece of content, in the same venue, with native language versions for each individual person through the AIX app
In depth live audience data enhances the experience of the people in each specific venue, as well as strategically advertising to them, taking into account event, location, preferences, age, interests, access requirements and more
AIX’s plan for a global series of these immersive screen venues – venues which are connected to the individual audience members as well as
being connected with each other – is a game-changing development for collective entertainment
Imagine a world where a globally interconnected network of venues means new ideas are shared as quickly as they are social media Where audiences are connected across vast geographies, experiencing the same moment in time
Participating in an international conference simply means attending your local venue and everyone is invited to take part in those key moments of collective joy from The World Cup to Eurovision
AIX is a membership organisation, with layered tiers of management from free to premium available Our aim is a network with thousands of spaces built to work together or individually. Each venue will be connected through cameras and microphones, and built to showcase the best in immersive technologies with LED screens, spatial audio, and innovative lighting
This synchronised audio-visual content is delivered through the development of our proprietary software ‘The Hive’, a world-first platform for the end-to-end creation, distribution and monetisation of live, immersive experiences
At the heart of this is the AIX app - available on all platforms The app is integral to every facet of our business, it allows cashless transactions for food, drink or merch, it is our ticketing platform and an online social network mirrored by the physical social network of the venues.
The app will allow audiences to connect with the event and with each other, for example by using an individual’s device as their own personal broadcast studio, or joining gaming experiences.
AIX Live has been developing R&D partnerships with the UK’s leading universities This has seen a series of innovations undertaken addressing key issues regarding latency through the use of 5G technologies. In other words, making communication between venues and
audiences instant, with no lag - one of the key challenges for networked events
Most recently we tested this research by connecting immersive venues in all four nations of the UK for a one off interactive screening of 6Nations Rugby.
AIX Live has pioneered the use of arenas to stage watch parties on an epic scale With the consumer facing brand ‘Road to Victory’ selling out all 16,000 seats at Manchester’s AO Arena for England Vs Spain in the finals of the Euros 2024
As a business, AIX’s revenue model is clear and scalable: software licensing, premium content commissioning, and venue partnerships The platform is being developed with cultural institutions, commercial entertainment companies, and performance creators in mind, creating opportunities for both traditional IP holders and emerging voices to find new markets
Several trends make this the right moment for AIX to scale:
Decentralised culture: Audiences increasingly expect to engage on their own terms and in a place local to them
. Sustainable production: The climate crisis is forcing a rethink of travelintensive models for performance and touring.
Technology convergence: 5G, edge computing, and powerful mobile devices make low-latency synchronised content viable at scale
Creative evolution: Artists and producers are seeking new formats to tell stories and engage interactively with distributed audiences
The company has already demonstrated proof-of-concept events that have connected fans across continents, with the founders having a track record of delivering global cultural activations, from immersive football fan experiences in São Paulo and Shanghai, to award-winning digital tools for civic engagement.
Investment Opportunity: Infrastructure for a New Era of Experience
AIX Live is currently raising investment to support the next phase of development: completing its minimum viable product (MVP), scaling its partner venue network, and delivering a flagship multi-site live event in late 2025 With grant support already secured from Innovate UK, the business is wellpositioned to leverage public R&D funding and build toward a sustainable, high-growth commercial model.
For family offices and impact-oriented investors, AIX offers a unique convergence of:
Cultural capital: Supporting innovation in the arts and screen sectors
Scalable technology: A low-cost, replicable platform with global licensing potential
Social value: Enhancing access, inclusion and community connection
Environmental sustainability: Reducing carbonintensive touring and event production
The team combines creative vision with deep technical expertise. Led by seasoned entrepreneurs with a track record in global experiential production, it includes former directors of UK-wide cultural programmes and award-winning immersive technologists
AIX is not just building a product, it’s laying the foundations for a new kind of creative infrastructure. In a fragmented world, the ability to come together across time zones, devices, and demographics is more valuable than ever
AIX believes the next revolution in entertainment is not more isolation behind headsets, but a return to shared moments,
experienced side by side, whether in a school hall in Glasgow or a gallery in Accra.
For investors looking to back transformative businesses at the intersection of technology, culture and sustainability, AIX Live presents an opportunity to shape the future of audience experience and connection
Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are powerful strategies for business growth, but they come with significant risks and rewards From a business standpoint, M&A can provide immediate market expansion increased efficiency, and competitive advantages yet they can also lead to integration challenges, cultural clashes, and financial strain
Market Expansion & Diversification –
Acquiring or merging with another company allows businesses to enter new markets quickly, access new customer bases, and diversify their product offerings without the slow process of organic growth
Economies of Scale – Combining operations often reduces costs through shared resources, bulk purchasing power, and streamlined processes, improving profitability
Competitive Edge – M&A can eliminate competitors, strengthen market position, and provide access to proprietary technology or intellectual property that would be costly to develop independently Talent & Expertise Acquisition – Companies gain skilled employees and leadership, filling gaps in knowledge or capabilities
High Costs & Financial Risk – Overpaying for an acquisition or taking on excessive debt can strain finances especially if expected synergies don’t materialize
Integration Challenges – Merging systems, cultures, and workflows can lead to operational disruptions, employee dissatisfaction, and lost productivity
Cultural Misalignment – Clashes in corporate culture often derail M&A success leading to talent attrition and reduced morale
Regulatory Hurdles – Antitrust laws or crossborder regulations may block deals or impose restrictive conditions
For investors, M&A can signal growth potential, boosting stock prices in anticipation of synergies However, poorly executed deals may lead to value destruction, making due diligence critical Investors often favor acquisitions with clear strategic benefits over those driven by ego or over-optimism. While M&A can accelerate growth and enhance competitiveness, businesses must weigh the financial, operational, and cultural risks carefully Success depends on thorough planning, realistic valuations, and seamless integration proving that not all that glitters in M&A is gold
Fitness entrepreneur Sherif Alaa is building an empire from Egypt. We took a few minutes of his time to find out what his work is all about.
How would you describe your business?
I am a strength and conditioning coach, I work with athletes and the general population I help people move well, explore the greatness of their bodies, and live a healthy lifestyle And I have my own gym to spread my methodologies in training
What were any early indications that you might go down this career route?
I am an ex professional soccer player, I played at top teams of Egypt and I always had a passion to train and to know more about the human body and how it can perform at its finest
What was your career path to get to where you are?
I was a soccer player for about 10 years , then I started to learn more about coaching by reading books, attending seminars and applying what I learned I started to work at my small gym in my house then moved to another big one
What does a typical day look like for you?
What are the biggest transformations you have seen in clients you have worked with?
I trained footballer Omar Marmoush for 4-5 consecutive years until he played in Manchester City for example. I have helped lots of people reach their goals, whether losing fat, building muscles, or getting more flexible and mobile
How would you see your business change or develop in the next few years?
I wake up early in the morning having my coffee and read a book for about 30-60 mins then go to workout for about 1-2 hours Then I go back home to have my breakfast then rest and enjoy some time with my family I again go to the gym to start working with my athletes, whether private training or group classes Lastly, I go back home to eat one big meal and maybe enjoy some time with my family again before going to bed.
My dream is to expand my brand and open another branch to make people aware of the importance of their health and how it can affect their lives I will do this through my methodology and what I’ve learned and applied through my entire career
Contact Sherif for more information: WhatApp +20 105 599 1915 Instagram @sherifalaa5 @marsbysa
The shemagh also known as the keffiyeh or ghutrah is a traditional square cotton scarf worn by men across the Middle East, particularly in the Arabian Peninsula. Its enduring presence reflects both its practical utility and deep cultural significance
Origins
The shemagh's roots trace back to ancient Mesopotamia, where similar head coverings were used by Sumerian priests as early as 3100 BCE to denote social status and provide protection from the elements
The term "keffiyeh" is believed to derive from the city of Kufa in Iraq, highlighting its historical association with the region
Over time, the shemagh became integral to Bedouin culture, serving as a practical garment to shield wearers from the harsh desert environment.
Traditionally, the shemagh serves multiple functional purposes:
Protection from the Elements: It shields the head and neck from sunburn dust and sand.
Temperature Regulation: Soaking the shemagh in water and wearing it can help keep the wearer cool in hot climates
Versatility: Beyond headwear, it can function as a makeshift towel, sling, or even a water filter in survival situations
The shemagh holds profound cultural symbolic meanings:
Regional Identity: Different colors a patterns signify various regions and For instance, the red-and-white che pattern is associated with Jordan an Arabia, while the black-and-white p emblematic of Palestinian heritage
Social Status: In some cultures, the manner of wearing the shemagh ca indicate the wearer's social standin within the community
Political Symbolism: The Palestinian became a symbol of resistance and solidarity during the 1936–1939 Arab and has since been associated with Palestinian nationalism
In recent years, the shemagh has trans its traditional roots to become a globa statement:
Military and Tactical Use: Military pe worldwide have adopted the shema practicality in various environments
Fashion Accessory: Designers and fa enthusiasts incorporate the shemag modern attire, appreciating its aest cultural resonance
Celebrity Endorsements: Figures like Messi have been seen wearing the s further popularizing it in mainstrea culture
The shemagh remains a potent symbol cultural identity, resilience, and adapt Its evolution from a practical garment global fashion icon underscores its end relevance and versatility
Once defined by mills, football, and music, Manchester has emerged as a city of reinvention. Today, it blends industrial heritage with cultural dynamism, modern architecture with historic streetscapes, and Northern charm with global ambition.
For business travellers and cultural tourists alike, Manchester is increasingly recognised not just as a regional capital, but as the UK’s true second city.
Manchester's credentials in culture are formidable It is home to globally significant institutions like the Manchester International Festival, HOME arts centre, Factory International (home to Aviva Studios), and the Whitworth and Manchester Art Gallery The city’s creative scene spans contemporary visual art experimental theatre digital installations and street-level innovation
Music is woven into the city’s DNA from The Smiths to Oasis, from the Hacienda era to warehouse raves in Salford s postindustrial outskirts For modern audiences, The Warehouse Project, Albert Hall, and Band on the Wall offer some of the UK's most exciting live performance spaces
Few cities showcase their past as vividly as Manchester The Science and Industry Museum, located on the world’s first passenger railway site, sits beside sleek co-working spaces and award-winning cocktail bars The John Rylands Library with its gothic grandeur and the People’s History Museum tracing the roots of British democracy, offer intellectual depth for curious visitors
Yet Manchester doesn't dwell on nostalgia it retools its history for today’s experience economy. The Northern Quarter, once a manufacturing district is now a hive of indie cafes vinyl shops and design studios Former warehouses are now luxury hotels, creative hubs, and immersive performance venues
For business travellers with downtime few UK cities offer such a diverse leisure menu Football fans can tour Old Trafford or the Etihad Stadium, while those seeking world-class events can time visits with cricket at Old Trafford Cricket Ground, or concerts at the AO Arena one of Europe s busiest indoor venues
Food and drink are booming too with a Michelin star (at mana) and a vibrant independent scene that spans global cuisines New neighbourhoods like Ancoats are now top-tier destinations for culinary tourism, recognised by Time Out and others as among the world s coolest places
Importantly, Manchester’s size gives it an edge. It’s big enough to host international events but compact enough to navigate on foot Whether visiting for a conference pitch meeting or creative collaboration, delegates can explore art, music, sport, and heritage all within a short radius
18-19 June 2025
Europe Family Office Investment Summit Lake Como, Italy
23-24 September 2025
APAC Family Office Investment Summit Singapore
9 October 2025
The Alea Sessions - Washington Washington DC, USA
15-16 December 2025
Middle East Family Office Investment Summit Dubai, UAE
11-12 February 2026
Africa Family Office Investment Summit Johannesburg, South Africa
14-15 April 2026
LATAM Family Office Investment Summit
Mexico City, Mexico
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