https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/us-weekly-jobless-claims-fall-amid-labour-market-resilience The Business Times en 2026-05-21T21:15:36+08:00 US weekly jobless claims fall amid labour market resilience https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/95863eb727e13ebb4ff05e0a226d83314971b453d8a3f695710881d82768799a Initial claims for state unemployment benefits slipped 3,000 to a seasonally adjusted 209,000 for the week ended May 16. Initial claims for state unemployment benefits slipped 3,000 to a seasonally adjusted 209,000 for the week ended May 16. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/toyota-launch-its-first-mainstream-ev-singapore-q3-2026 The Business Times en 2026-05-21T21:05:06+08:00 Toyota to launch its first mainstream EV in Singapore in Q3 2026 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/52704e775849de6bc088592b8a077ebee5becf2b5132ff01480f1e2f16c74a95 Toyota BZ4X Touring (left) and Urban Cruiser (right) electric vehicles were previewed in Singapore on Thursday (May 21, 2026). Toyota's BZ4X Touring (left) and Urban Cruiser (right) electric vehicles were previewed at Marina Bay Sands on Thursday (May 21). https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/haidilao-co-founders-family-buys-second-bungalow-cluny-hill-s85-million The Business Times en 2026-05-21T21:01:21+08:00 Haidilao co-founder’s family buys second bungalow in Cluny Hill for S$85 million https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5b7646743f8cb5c54e2596f3496f0d6a5aa190d5d1f0ce97dec606c3d57643ae The price paid for the Shi family’s latest bungalow purchase in Cluny Hill works out to S$2,295 psf on a land area of 37,036 sq ft. The price paid for the Shi family’s latest bungalow purchase in Cluny Hill works out to S$2,295 psf on a land area of 37,036 sq ft. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/us-invest-quantum-computing-firms-exchange-stakes The Business Times en 2026-05-21T20:52:28+08:00 US to invest in quantum computing firms in exchange for stakes https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f67d12287084d1ce04abb183fd6d27f76cb7a3bda13bf685c5732a5e0ee04b57 IBM will receive US$1 billion from the Trump administration in exchange for a stake in the company. IBM will receive US$1 billion from the Trump administration in exchange for a stake in the company. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/sri-trang-gloves-q1-profit-falls-9-5-384-1-million-baht The Business Times en 2026-05-21T20:51:30+08:00 Sri Trang Gloves Q1 profit falls 9.5% to 384.1 million baht https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0951fb196c74bcbebd9e271a3acd5cb77d3e097be379f88f06678e4d0ba32c33 Sri Trang says that it retains a competitive advantage in manufacturing by using natural rubber latex, prices of which have risen by about 30%. Sri Trang says that it retains a competitive advantage in manufacturing by using natural rubber latex, prices of which have risen by about 30%. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/google-meta-tiktok-face-eu-consumer-complaints-about-handling-financial-scams The Business Times en 2026-05-21T20:49:49+08:00 Google, Meta, TikTok face EU consumer complaints about handling of financial scams https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/274e6a1a708d494ca54c45fee5ea061053469d0f1e6ed5ce809f91aa250b855d The complaints were submitted to the European Commission and national regulators under the Digital Services Act (DSA). The complaints were submitted to the European Commission and national regulators under the Digital Services Act (DSA). https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/esg/asean-may-be-forced-choose-between-economic-growth-and-climate-if-both-are-not-decoupled-ravi-menon The Business Times en 2026-05-21T20:19:10+08:00 Asean may be forced to choose between economic growth and climate if both are not decoupled: Ravi Menon https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/dce2240520d6c855d88990aba60a0d082bb0a4aed862dfc52d4bafcce34147cd Ravi Menon, Singapore's ambassador for climate action, says that despite challenges in carbon markets, it is key to "rebuild integrity so that financing can follow". Ravi Menon, Singapore's ambassador for climate action, says that despite challenges in carbon markets, it is key to "rebuild integrity so that financing can follow". https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/saudis-us1-trillion-wealth-fund-weighs-creating-logistics-giant The Business Times en 2026-05-21T20:14:14+08:00 Saudi’s US$1 trillion wealth fund weighs creating a logistics giant https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/50e7976c14806d92790fd92e7b60a146ed91bf69ebbc5c9bb82113782efc4925 The fund is increasingly prioritising businesses that generate steady returns, while supporting the domestic economy. The fund is increasingly prioritising businesses that generate steady returns, while supporting the domestic economy. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/nio-q1-net-loss-narrows-332-1-million-yuan-revenue-doubles The Business Times en 2026-05-21T20:12:52+08:00 Nio Q1 net loss narrows to 332.1 million yuan as revenue doubles https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/bafbb4f3b172bdccff7b296c5542ed8de13e223a79dde86cd3619268c3de4c01 On a quarter-on-quarter basis, however, its net loss was a reversal from the net profit of 282.7 million yuan in the fourth quarter of 2025. On a quarter-on-quarter basis, Nio's net loss was a reversal from the net profit of 282.7 million yuan in the fourth quarter of 2025. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/oil-hits-session-high-report-iran-wants-keep-its-uranium The Business Times en 2026-05-21T20:11:25+08:00 Oil hits session high on report Iran wants to keep its uranium https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/de5c67be881da9fbb48ca926dc056b30cd9d081e054790103d50d1c848db5daa Brent traded near US$107 a barrel on Thursday, after sliding 5.6 per cent in the previous session. Brent traded near US$107 a barrel on Thursday, after sliding 5.6 per cent in the previous session. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/aims-apac-reit-secures-sustainability-linked-loan-facilities-s450-million-160-million The Business Times en 2026-05-21T19:47:40+08:00 Aims Apac Reit secures sustainability-linked loan facilities of S$450 million, A$160 million https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/21c095ad2a3aab27cfc991e132060f05d0876a76c7d2d355c195a5b872bd3127 The sustainability-linked loan is tied to AA Reit's performance, with pre-determined targets focused on reducing Scope 2 carbon emissions, among others. The sustainability-linked loan is tied to AA Reit's performance, with pre-determined targets focused on reducing Scope 2 carbon emissions, among others. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/executive-assistants-making-us100000-year-are-losing-jobs-ai The Business Times en 2026-05-21T19:10:09+08:00 Executive assistants making US$100,000 a year are losing jobs to AI https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/75b3537df7b3d036be3c5f9f5d24fa3d440d787be315b2b2acbb208e1bb80088 EAs are expected to be among the workers hardest hit by the adoption of AI, according to a World Economic Forum report. EAs are expected to be among the workers hardest hit by the adoption of AI, according to a World Economic Forum report. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/manus-weighs-raising-us1-billion-unwind-meta-takeover The Business Times en 2026-05-21T19:08:49+08:00 Manus weighs raising US$1 billion to unwind Meta takeover https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e4161417d9b851952c32478f44d61fe2bd7135da12f2a54934da396f96b63854 It’s unclear how new owners would carve out Manus’s agentic AI technology, much of which has been integrated into Meta’s systems. It’s unclear how new owners would carve out Manus’s agentic AI technology, much of which has been integrated into Meta’s systems. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/uk-net-migration-falls-below-200000-visa-clampdown-bites The Business Times en 2026-05-21T18:41:56+08:00 UK net migration falls below 200,000 as visa clampdown bites https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/57de7169f457744dd8196d45d85f9819e222300a4e217c2bd7a3034123496ccc Britons and Europeans continued to depart the UK in large numbers. Britons and Europeans continued to depart the UK in large numbers. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/war-weighs-global-growth-inflation-worries-intensifying The Business Times en 2026-05-21T18:38:05+08:00 War weighs on global growth with inflation worries intensifying https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c290c43ea0b7133b4a8bffa0de0068086ede4bdd511ea886976a45267dc967fd Overall, the numbers add to evidence that the growth and inflation shocks to the world from the Middle East crisis are spreading, complicating the task for central bankers. Overall, the numbers add to evidence that the growth and inflation shocks to the world from the Middle East crisis are spreading, complicating the task for central bankers. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/eurozone-economic-activity-contracts-fastest-pace-over-two-years-may The Business Times en 2026-05-21T18:30:18+08:00 Eurozone economic activity contracts at fastest pace in over two years in May https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/274e6a1a708d494ca54c45fee5ea061053469d0f1e6ed5ce809f91aa250b855d New orders across the private sector fell at their fastest pace in 18 months, with new export orders declining at the steepest rate since January 2025. New orders across the private sector fell at their fastest pace in 18 months, with new export orders declining at the steepest rate since January 2025. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/newsletters/daily-debrief/daily-debrief-what-happened-today-may-212 The Business Times en 2026-05-21T18:30:00+08:00 Daily Debrief: What Happened Today (May 21) https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/de9ba03584bb7dee9907662d37d0161aa02273d805d5776b4cf1b0ddaee518a0 Singtel group CEO Yuen Kuan Moon says an environment with four telcos is “definitely not sustainable". Singtel group CEO Yuen Kuan Moon says an environment with four telcos is “definitely not sustainable". https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/ai-reshapes-entry-level-work-fresh-grads-must-prepare-third-year-job-panel The Business Times en 2026-05-21T18:14:47+08:00 As AI reshapes entry-level work, fresh grads must prepare for the ‘third-year job’: panel https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/807163155b3681cc3995fb467b7b5a867d81b429cd95bb3d53cc0da8f2b867e2 From left: IMDA's Yvonne Lim, who moderated the panel; Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow; SMU's Professor Lily Kong; and Singtel's Ng Tian Chong. From left: IMDA's Yvonne Lim, who moderated the panel; Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow; SMU's Professor Lily Kong; and Singtel's Ng Tian Chong. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/singapore-stocks-end-flattish-amid-mixed-regional-showing-sti-0-02 The Business Times en 2026-05-21T18:02:17+08:00 Singapore stocks end flattish amid mixed regional showing; STI up 0.02% https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/663fb47215d9cba8966fbe4a43e94a2eaaf5e7921408401fabcebc72782c681e Across the broader market, gainers edged out losers 315 to 285, after 1.8 billion securities worth S$2.6 billion changed hands. Across the broader market, gainers outnumber losers 315 to 285, after 1.8 billion securities worth S$2.6 billion change hands. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/style-travel/exploring-great-outdoors-school-holidays The Business Times en 2026-05-21T18:00:00+08:00 Exploring the great outdoors for school holidays https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/93f15a94cfc6b2513e704f3095b9b7bb5fc61c29a9d683455a4a1106d90b3cbc Kids enjoying a bonfire at Nikoi Island. Kids enjoying a bonfire on Nikoi Island. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/food-drink/japanese-food-singaporean-tastebuds-jiin-omakase The Business Times en 2026-05-21T18:00:00+08:00 Japanese food for Singaporean tastebuds at Jiin Omakase https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1e8905bfd962a9fe4f9397c1a6e67100383c68c4c266acc317dde8a96b88ffdf Jiin Omakase's cosy interiors. Jiin Omakase's cosy interiors. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/food-drink/rose-wine-forgotten-sister-deserves-more The Business Times en 2026-05-21T18:00:00+08:00 Rose wine – the forgotten sister that deserves more https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f6f15ac9ebebaf9d983c884b00fbac8d0723f4782e6ba2fe07e7fcc9294e2a34 Rosé wines go very well with Asian food. Rose wines go very well with Asian food. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/analysts-doubt-over-whether-bank-indonesias-rate-hike-will-stem-rupiahs-slide The Business Times en 2026-05-21T17:57:36+08:00 Analysts in doubt over whether Bank Indonesia’s rate hike will stem rupiah’s slide https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/586a436b7c7d38bc15e64102fd81409e06c807b5116671d995226fd3d3967b20 Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announces steps to support local assets, such as a state-owned entity to centralise exports of strategic commodities. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has also announced steps to support local assets through a state-owned entity to centralise exports of strategic commodities. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/seoul-apartment-price-rally-gains-pace-ahead-bank-korea-decision The Business Times en 2026-05-21T17:31:14+08:00 Seoul apartment price rally gains pace ahead of Bank of Korea decision https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d63d46bda86a9003552b4163c7368286f0a260dbd24f97537d706630f38e5f68 The Bank of Korea next sets policy on May 28, which will be governor Shin Hyun-song’s first rate decision since taking office in April. The Bank of Korea next sets policy on May 28, which will be governor Shin Hyun-song’s first rate decision since taking office in April. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/transport-logistics/thai-watchdog-sue-volvo-cars-over-ex30-fires-consumers-demand-refunds The Business Times en 2026-05-21T17:29:56+08:00 Thai watchdog to sue Volvo Cars over EX30 fires as consumers demand refunds https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/19af3e09702a1cae2be7e939bc96e6daef001f5dd899832770341ec0b7250c03 The decision to take court action follows two EX30 fires in Thailand this month. The decision to take court action follows two EX30 fires in Thailand this month. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/uk-private-sector-shrinks-starmer-crisis-adds-iran-shock The Business Times en 2026-05-21T17:21:52+08:00 UK private sector shrinks as Starmer crisis adds to Iran shock https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/57f72baba7a2ba5221c529c805c37656c8c29aeae42ec023e509cb2f4cfdbe32 The survey will deliver a further blow to Starmer’s Labour government, which has struggled to deliver on its promise to boost economic growth. The survey will deliver a further blow to Starmer’s Labour government, which has struggled to deliver on its promise to boost economic growth. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/us-philippines-reach-deal-economic-security-zone-sooner-rather-later-us-official-says The Business Times en 2026-05-21T16:47:03+08:00 US, Philippines to reach deal on economic security zone ‘sooner rather than later’, US official says https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e6cf53b02030c57c5e15ac14594a7be1b81fcfcf59d7d244b9c98e0c4d9cd217 US officials led by Undersecretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg talks to reporters in Pampanga, Philippines on May 18, 2028. US officials led by Undersecretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg talks to reporters in Pampanga, Philippines on May 18, 2028. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/policy-changes-construction-demand-push-commercial-vehicle-coe-premiums-new-record The Business Times en 2026-05-21T16:36:51+08:00 Policy changes, construction demand push commercial vehicle COE premiums to new record https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ec76c3937ab21e675e7a16da872dbfa3cd28930e0902235b29effb1dfa6d9eeb Heavy vehicle demand to serve major construction projects has helped drive Category C COE premiums to new heights. Heavy vehicle demand to serve major construction projects has helped drive Category C COE premiums to new heights. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/thrive/money-talk/some-young-singaporeans-renting-worthy-expense The Business Times en 2026-05-21T16:20:15+08:00 For some young Singaporeans, renting is a worthy expense https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ead4ac253160fb34abdc279c4d1e1e0c686a340e11b5454bb285c036e6cb924b BT BT https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/goldman-ceo-slides-elon-musks-dms-during-bid-lead-spacex-ipo The Business Times en 2026-05-21T16:20:03+08:00 Goldman CEO slides into Elon Musk’s DMs during bid to lead SpaceX IPO https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4a3382339cc6e2422373c764977e96eed3835e037e09d1a2ca6f15d45892b5b7 Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon is known for using gimmicks to help win a deal. Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon is known for using gimmicks to help win a deal. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/boj-faces-calls-pause-bond-taper-energy-shock-jolts-yields The Business Times en 2026-05-21T16:15:30+08:00 BOJ faces calls to pause bond taper as energy shock jolts yields https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/79e70c27fe377933af85d26a2f65d51fa81d56dd0384c69f067b7355397ceb48 The BOJ has been tapering its huge bond purchases since 2024 and currently buys roughly 2.1 trillion yen worth of Japanese government bonds per month. The BOJ has been tapering its huge bond purchases since 2024 and currently buys roughly 2.1 trillion yen worth of Japanese government bonds per month. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/malaysian-palm-oil-groups-worried-indonesian-export-revamp-could-cause-short-term-disruption The Business Times en 2026-05-21T16:10:47+08:00 Malaysian palm oil groups worried Indonesian export revamp could cause short-term disruption https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f85563c117456c96e49c1bc214f75d6cc16ccc5d2f84ab4c6831462105fcd454 Malaysia could potentially benefit if buyers view its supply as more stable and predictable during the initial implementation of Indonesia's new measures. Malaysia could potentially benefit if buyers view its supply as more stable and predictable during the initial implementation of Indonesia's new measures. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/jpmorgan-will-hire-more-ai-fewer-bankers-ceo-dimon-says The Business Times en 2026-05-21T15:58:07+08:00 JPMorgan will hire more for AI, fewer bankers, CEO Dimon says https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e3074e93efb69f4cc60967e41967f7fcc174843b6e7e37e6fded4db5df0ab963 Unlike some of his banking peers, Jamie Dimon struck a measured tone, arguing that the AI-driven transition can largely be managed through natural turnover. Unlike some of his banking peers, Jamie Dimon struck a measured tone, arguing that the AI-driven transition can largely be managed through natural turnover. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/australian-shares-jump-weak-jobs-data-tempers-rba-rate-hike-bets The Business Times en 2026-05-21T15:52:44+08:00 Australian shares jump as weak jobs data tempers RBA rate-hike bets https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3ad57876201f6b3d4692bf1739fa533fad449648a074cef2829262e16944ab18 The S&P/ASX 200 index rose 1.5 per cent to 8,621.70 points, logging its best close in a week. The S&P/ASX 200 index rose 1.5 per cent to 8,621.70 points, logging its best close in a week. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/why-singtel-seeking-aussie-partner-optus The Business Times en 2026-05-21T15:50:00+08:00 Why is Singtel seeking an Aussie partner for Optus? https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/82e111eed6a8d6cdade412e4b1f5d674bb5bc1427071ce86448909f8fb2dd72b The minority partner must ensure that Optus continues to be “a strong alternative operator in the industry", says Singtel. Singtel is seeking a “like-minded long-term local partner” that would take a “meaningful minority stake” in Optus. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/european-equities-ease-investors-await-middle-east-peace-updates The Business Times en 2026-05-21T15:42:41+08:00 European equities ease as investors await Middle East peace updates https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d82e0c3caf8baa2c817b9560d50165e38c160a12ed7118439558d7b3e89dc50d The Stoxx 600 was down 0.2 per cent at 618.79 points, as of 0701 GMT on Thursday. The Stoxx 600 was down 0.2 per cent at 618.79 points, as of 0701 GMT on Thursday. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/australia-jobless-rate-jumps-41-2-year-high-rba-bets-fade The Business Times en 2026-05-21T15:36:21+08:00 Australia jobless rate jumps to 4½ year high as RBA bets fade https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/45b259a26999b5b4cb266a4e1d36b3d16ba4b2f56a5870865f89f5e2c88719e2 FILE PHOTO: People shop at Pitt Street Mall in Sydney, Australia, September 29, 2025. REUTERS/Hollie Adams/File Photo/File Photo Australia has seen a wave of layoffs this year, particularly in the tech sector, where companies have blamed AI adoption, restructuring and cost pressures. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/was-winning-entry-commonwealth-short-story-prize-generated-ai The Business Times en 2026-05-21T15:14:42+08:00 Was a winning entry of the Commonwealth Short Story Prize generated by AI? https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5a8c8c25891d2687d599be36c1964cf216aa52cf8468103335493d5959774676 The overall winner of the Commonwealth Short Story Prize will be announced on Jun 30. The overall winner of the Commonwealth Short Story Prize will be announced on Jun 30. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/danantara-indonesia-will-honour-commodity-export-contracts-will-review-prices The Business Times en 2026-05-21T15:13:20+08:00 Danantara Indonesia will honour commodity export contracts, but will review prices https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5340c24c998cd09cdc255d0fa399e80b86e4348a9d3a698b31a13afc2ca1fffd Danantara planned to combine the asset management firms it owns, aiming to build a larger player to compete locally and across the region. Danantara said that when the sovereign wealth fund has visibility on pricing, it may renegotiate prices that were set below global benchmarks. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/why-these-are-sobering-times-alcohol-companies The Business Times en 2026-05-21T14:48:09+08:00 Why these are sobering times for alcohol companies https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0ecb27812b32b3429621c83784842fba874ba19a2421fc7e22e5be1a69ba095a FILE PHOTO: A waiter takes a bottle of Kingfisher beer out of a fridge at a pub in Mumbai, India. Health concerns and tighter household budgets are prompting people to drink less. Health concerns and tighter household budgets are prompting people to drink less. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/some-things-know-about-teo-siong-seng-singapore-shipping-veteran-accused-us-price-collusion The Business Times en 2026-05-21T14:33:59+08:00 Some things to know about Teo Siong Seng, the Singapore shipping veteran accused by US of price collusion https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/55e0d97ab3accc1a705c2140583252cef7f594cd72ebeb45982be224c04f5ca8 Teo Siong Seng, also known as SS Teo, is among seven executives from the four companies named in the US Department of Justice's statement. Teo Siong Seng, also known as SS Teo, is among seven executives from the four companies named in the US Department of Justice's statement. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/circular-ai-boom-goes-global-asia-windfall-funds-hyperscalers The Business Times en 2026-05-21T14:21:18+08:00 Circular AI boom goes global as Asia windfall funds hyperscalers https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/24eb861b809356aa761fdd9c588025f5818cab0ac1a9dc2b7dac5c5d8a2ddfaf India, Vietnam, Malaysia and other parts of South-east Asia are taking advantage as companies adopt a China-plus-one strategy to diversify their supply. India, Vietnam, Malaysia and other parts of South-east Asia are taking advantage as companies adopt a China-plus-one strategy to diversify their supply. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/events-awards/design-ai-and-tech-awards/gallery/2026-final-award-presentation1 The Business Times en 2026-05-21T14:17:04+08:00 2026 Final Award Presentation https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/singtel-seeks-clarity-taking-part-telco-consolidation-analysts-note-very-high-bar-approval The Business Times en 2026-05-21T14:11:17+08:00 Singtel seeks clarity on taking part in telco consolidation; analysts note ‘very high bar’ for approval https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c12aefbd72c5cce8587ece988d0f6cb9af6b04aa9b07be98211cd12f298a97dc Singtel group CEO Yuen Kuan Moon says an environment with four telcos is “definitely not sustainable". Singtel group CEO Yuen Kuan Moon says an environment with four telcos is “definitely not sustainable". https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/who-would-buy-vietnams-state-owned-stakes-when-hanoi-ready-sell The Business Times en 2026-05-21T14:06:42+08:00 Who would buy Vietnam’s state-owned stakes – when Hanoi is ready to sell? https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/16d0085bdc05cf3c90df92dafe47dfbc68893b09edd1672eeaafc1ab2b5a418f Vietnam is set to be upgraded to secondary emerging market status later this year, which could pull billions of dollars into its stock market. Vietnam is set to be upgraded to secondary emerging market status later this year, which could pull billions of dollars into its stock market. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/arts-design/sifa-2026-festival-finds-its-balance The Business Times en 2026-05-21T14:05:00+08:00 Sifa 2026: A festival finds its balance https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/50e330afa9b0b19ae87c6f05d0da6c5ca4d2e1c081088db1f901a718a0de2609 The return of the Festival Village at the Singapore International Festival of Arts drew large crowds with its varied attractions. The return of the Festival Village at the Singapore International Festival of Arts drew large crowds with its varied attractions, such as Noli Timere. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/singapore-ramps-ai-push-smes-new-initiatives-partnerships The Business Times en 2026-05-21T13:48:12+08:00 Singapore ramps up AI push for SMEs with new initiatives, partnerships https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/01c8243679623f1a579ac637f77db13f6a089f39f16e70b040b7ac6d9996a2aa Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information Tan Kiat How announced new initiatives to help enterprises adopt AI with confidence, strengthen cyber resilience, and future-proof Singapore’s digital infrastructure, at Asia Tech x Singapore (ATx) on Thursday (May 21) Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information Tan Kiat How says enterprises need to go beyond the AI buzz and focus on practical deployment. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/vietnamese-ev-maker-vinfasts-move-shift-us7-billion-debt-raises-red-flags The Business Times en 2026-05-21T13:37:28+08:00 Vietnamese EV maker VinFast’s move to shift US$7 billion in debt raises ‘red flags’ https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/48f8c80ed2bfa9de709e10d9a651c7b0ca1749a0342e6fd1d7249ef6b4e5c480 Testing of the Robo-Car system is underway in controlled zones in Hanoi, with plans to expand trials to larger cities and overseas markets, the companies say. VinFast will retain its assembly plants in Indonesia and India, along with patents for its newest generation of EVs. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/iran-war-spurs-extreme-bear-scenarios-asia-currencies-bonds The Business Times en 2026-05-21T13:03:22+08:00 Iran war spurs extreme bear scenarios for Asia currencies, bonds https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1509243a33d6f4c5752da8c4ba4702fca58dce3bfc72a8c10893eb370706512d The rupiah, rupee and the peso have been among the worst-performing emerging-market currencies, falling between 4.5% and 6.5% since the war began. The rupiah, rupee and the peso have been among the worst-performing emerging-market currencies, falling between 4.5% and 6.5% since the war began. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/asean-could-be-hard-hit-intensifying-iran-crisis-g7-broods The Business Times en 2026-05-21T12:44:13+08:00 Asean could be hard hit by intensifying Iran crisis as G7 broods https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c8f927d6b2048668ca405d41ee8a0d1d8b60445d5f5655877768fa2c35a40926 Some traders forecast that key Asian countries, including those in Asean, might face physical shortages of gasoil around a month before Europe does. Some traders forecast that key Asian countries, including those in Asean, might face physical shortages of gasoil around a month before Europe does. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/nvidia-tells-sceptical-investors-ai-ready-go-mainstream The Business Times en 2026-05-21T12:33:57+08:00 Nvidia tells sceptical investors that AI is ready to go mainstream https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/962896d9f18f799e2eba17942b8bfa03a2bdbe5db42fb97dd1c12cb92a26d89e Wall Street predicts that revenue for Jensen Huang's Nvidia will account for more than a third of the entire semiconductor sector’s sales in 2026. Wall Street predicts that revenue for Jensen Huang's Nvidia will account for more than a third of the entire semiconductor sector’s sales in 2026. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/singamas-shares-plunge-after-us-doj-allegations-against-ceo-teo-siong-seng The Business Times en 2026-05-21T12:19:59+08:00 Singamas shares plunge after US DOJ allegations against CEO Teo Siong Seng https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/60a4840d768b55f6e235bf50f4d059cf7ec9f6f6ccea18661d73b5c3ba9fef8c Singapore shipping veteran Teo Siong Seng is one of seven executives the US has accused of colluding to fix the prices of dry containers. Singapore shipping veteran Teo Siong Seng is one of seven executives the US has accused of colluding to fix the prices of dry containers. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/china-lowers-spending-most-six-months-blow-economy The Business Times en 2026-05-21T12:17:49+08:00 China lowers spending most in six months in blow to economy https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8512e5a792fe8fa80d3b60c56308c02c8cea0729a2affdde8bc2fe7ca00c7adf Solid economic growth in the first quarter may have reduced the impetus for authorities to step up spending. Solid economic growth in the first quarter may have reduced the impetus for authorities to step up spending. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/airbnb-pushes-beyond-stays-luggage-storage-car-rentals-hotels The Business Times en 2026-05-21T11:39:46+08:00 Airbnb pushes beyond stays with luggage storage, car rentals, hotels https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d06ba5b630bcb907156b564334648d495f43db6c34edb9cd79c015f90decacde CEO Brian Chesky says Airbnb wants to “become an ecosystem of services” to address the top pain points in travel. CEO Brian Chesky says Airbnb wants to “become an ecosystem of services” to address the top pain points in travel. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/citadel-securities-hires-more-60-across-asia-including-singapore The Business Times en 2026-05-21T11:04:39+08:00 Citadel Securities hires more than 60 across Asia, including Singapore https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1f69af202ad03e3b3af0eea613f9d4857272273966091fa7a97f4ee4e1b2901d Citadel Securities has been expanding in Asia with plans to bolster its “high-touch” business by allowing clients in the region to trade US equity blocks. Citadel Securities has been expanding in Asia with plans to bolster its “high-touch” business by allowing clients in the region to trade US equity blocks. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/prabowos-biggest-crackdown-tycoons-shocked-his-own-officials The Business Times en 2026-05-21T11:00:51+08:00 Prabowo’s biggest crackdown on tycoons shocked his own officials https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e4fa3320221dc9af0ed0be21ac4945fe01031f491f8665924e1ae51517e0f8d1 “The era of impunity is ending,” Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto said. “The era of impunity is ending,” Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto said. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/apex-court-rejects-resulting-trust-claim-99-1-condo-dispute The Business Times en 2026-05-21T10:32:21+08:00 Apex court rejects resulting trust claim in 99-1 condo dispute https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/632639ca37bcfbdd38c7d1ed60ca2a2a7c57372af18b7a35d25d6fb37fdfb1c1 The Court of Appeal found that the evidence showed the parties intended the 99-1 ratio to reflect both their legal and beneficial ownership of the property. Evidence showed the parties intended the 99-1 ratio to reflect both their legal and beneficial ownership of the property. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/us-fed-minutes-show-more-policymakers-open-rate-hike The Business Times en 2026-05-21T10:14:12+08:00 US Fed minutes show more policymakers open to a rate hike https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/754b28f14f17bbede63f29d63af56881aa96cfd09ffd8509420cbe151685f224 The Federal Open Market Committee left its short-term policy rate unchanged in a range of 3.5% to 3.75% last month, but four policymakers dissented, the most since 1992. US and global bond markets increasingly reflect a conviction that top central banks will be lifting interest rates before long to lean against war-induced inflation. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/global-funds-pile-back-chinese-stocks-april The Business Times en 2026-05-21T10:06:56+08:00 Global funds pile back into Chinese stocks in April https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6df02fe2c7c763c14ffa0dc00bbf7914a7e7824b8988c86e1f209e838f7f7be2 Estimated net inflows into mainland equities hit roughly 200 billion yuan (S$37.6 billion) last month, the most since January. Estimated net inflows into mainland equities hit roughly 200 billion yuan (S$37.6 billion) last month, the most since January. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/putin-leaves-beijing-after-xi-meeting-little-progress-key-china-russia-gas-pipeline-project The Business Times en 2026-05-21T10:04:40+08:00 Putin leaves Beijing after Xi meeting with little progress on key China-Russia gas pipeline project https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2c5e1239d49e11542718803e02da653f50f29a14a6fa53fd721e6d78f797e79b Russian President Putin (left) and Chinese President Xi following their meeting at Beijing's Great Hall of the People on May 20. Russian President Putin (left) and Chinese President Xi following their meeting at Beijing's Great Hall of the People on May 20. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/deep-under-chinas-coal-basins-petrochina-unlocking-gas-rocks The Business Times en 2026-05-21T10:01:55+08:00 Deep under China’s coal basins, PetroChina is unlocking gas from rocks https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d9e0ec30a18eb88d50ac032f5b18f4946b5ecde82aba1b374074217886297d87 A key obstacle to expanding coal rock gas output is the high production cost, reflecting the technical challenges of drilling deep underground. A key obstacle to expanding coal rock gas output is the high production cost, reflecting the technical challenges of drilling deep underground. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/hong-kongs-sogo-department-store-racing-refinance-loan-sources The Business Times en 2026-05-21T09:42:47+08:00 Hong Kong’s Sogo Department store racing to refinance loan: sources https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/28cb658d1e16eb2dbc96be82ec0ca44ebf384dbad704d9119fd3ab7d82723724 Sogo malls, especially the flagship Causeway Bay one, have long been among Hong Kong’s prime retail destinations. The shortfall represents about a third of the refinancing for the loan, which is secured against the iconic Sogo department store in shopping district Causeway Bay. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/gold-steadies-hopes-us-iran-truce-ease-rate-hike-bets The Business Times en 2026-05-21T09:22:29+08:00 Gold steadies as hopes of US-Iran truce ease rate-hike bets https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/cd427c249dc2a8de5cae74558882992f738b76f493a59e85dc03e50eadec963f Gold has traded in a narrow range since falling sharply in the early days of the Middle East conflict. Gold has traded in a narrow range since falling sharply in the early days of the Middle East conflict. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/elon-musks-tight-grip-heavy-losses-what-spacexs-potentially-largest-ever-ipo-filing-reveals The Business Times en 2026-05-21T08:43:04+08:00 Elon Musk’s tight grip, heavy losses: What SpaceX’s potentially largest-ever IPO filing reveals https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/bcf004f9ea07e6922bff7942ae3840345bcd7c5ed0ba26f4de5e3816d55b8fc1 The audacious plan by Elon Musk (left) for an IPO of unprecedented size is set to transform both the public and private markets if it succeeds. The audacious plan by Elon Musk (left) for an IPO of unprecedented size is set to transform both the public and private markets if it succeeds. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/stocks-watch-singtel-cdl The Business Times en 2026-05-21T08:29:29+08:00 Stocks to watch: Singtel, CDL https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/354fe92b8ec4307ce649aee8fa518bb3d6eba19249cf28460307b7e02afc296c On Thursday, it posted a net profit of S$2.2 billion for its second half ended Mar 31, 20.9 per cent down from S$2.8 billion in the year-ago period. Singtel posts a net profit of S$2.2 billion for its second half ended Mar 31, down 20.9% year on year. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/airbnbs-ceo-says-us-misunderstanding-use-chinese-open-source-ai-models The Business Times en 2026-05-21T08:24:49+08:00 Airbnb’s CEO says US ‘misunderstanding’ use of Chinese open-source AI models https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/27f7cbd4cc2bd8cfb40eddd59597908a0a0b90e2b1f929d7e69283247d8515c7 “An open-source model does not have access to data. It doesn’t work that way,” said Brian Chesky, chief executive officer of Airbnb. “An open-source model does not have access to data. It doesn’t work that way,” said Brian Chesky, chief executive officer of Airbnb. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/singtel-h2-net-profit-down-20-9-s2-2-billion-telco-open-aussie-minority-partner-optus The Business Times en 2026-05-21T08:19:13+08:00 Singtel H2 net profit down 20.9% at S$2.2 billion; telco open to Aussie minority partner in Optus https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0b0093e0104f244f5fae8a721ba1649622c704be278b7e784cdb91a0385a1582 For the second half, revenue stood at S$7.4 billion, up 2.7 per cent on the year from S$7.2 billion. Singtel's full-year EPS stood at S$0.3398, up from S$0.2434 in the previous financial year. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/samsung-shares-soar-strike-averted-bonuses-us416000-some-stoke-concern The Business Times en 2026-05-21T08:02:51+08:00 Samsung shares soar as strike averted, but bonuses of US$416,000 for some stoke concern https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7dff141eebd4ee54885cd8974110a555ff4ac738f256a2f722849bb37900c7de Yeo Myeong-gu (left), head of Samsung Electronics’ device solutions division's people team, and Choi Seung-ho, head of Samsung’s largest labour union, sign an agreement on a wage deal in Seoul on May 20. Yeo Myeong-gu (left), head of Samsung Electronics’ device solutions division's people team, and Choi Seung-ho, head of Samsung’s largest labour union, sign an agreement on a wage deal in Seoul on May 20. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/startups-tech/startups/openai-preparing-file-ipo-coming-weeks The Business Times en 2026-05-21T07:51:18+08:00 OpenAI is preparing to file for an IPO in the coming weeks https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ebf3dbf188c0ca32dd723a99d3c94ea5c6a5baea22e0ed64c42a66d8af3efbaf Since the release of ChatGPT, OpenAI has evolved into one of the world’s most valuable and powerful AI companies. Since the release of ChatGPT, OpenAI has evolved into one of the world’s most valuable and powerful AI companies. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/nvidias-profit-hits-us58-3-billion-ai-boom-gathers-more-steam The Business Times en 2026-05-21T07:39:45+08:00 Nvidia’s profit hits US$58.3 billion as AI boom gathers more steam https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6bbc503a0cb7d9bb198fa450037a4bc267d3a3a73231fb09ebfb717b86c3c2e7 Nvidia’s chips are an essential part of big AI projects, and other tech companies have been lining up to spend tens of billions of US dollars on those chips. Nvidia’s chips are an essential part of big AI projects, and other tech companies have been lining up to spend tens of billions of US dollars on those chips. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/singapore-shipping-veteran-sbf-chair-teo-siong-seng-and-others-accused-us-price-fixing The Business Times en 2026-05-21T07:20:28+08:00 Singapore shipping veteran, SBF chair Teo Siong Seng and others accused by US of price fixing https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6a88c03061003c6036e05d4dd4945a735e5d0c5b979af6d8a898a4c056258f32 Teo Siong Seng, chief executive of Singamas, was named as one of the individuals alleged to be involved in price fixing. Teo Siong Seng, chief executive of Singamas, was named as one of the individuals alleged to be involved in price fixing. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/fast-tracking-asean-power-grid-amid-global-energy-turmoil The Business Times en 2026-05-21T07:15:00+08:00 Fast-tracking the Asean Power Grid amid global energy turmoil https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c8f927d6b2048668ca405d41ee8a0d1d8b60445d5f5655877768fa2c35a40926 In 2025, Asean member states signed an enhanced APG memorandum of understanding, building on the original 2007 agreement. In 2025, Asean member states signed an enhanced Asean Power Grid memorandum of understanding, building on the original 2007 agreement. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/hormuz-crisis-makes-aseans-push-sustainable-aviation-fuel-more-urgent The Business Times en 2026-05-21T07:00:00+08:00 Hormuz crisis makes Asean’s push for sustainable aviation fuel more urgent https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/519f231f9f7ba11c892d5fcd515d532bc49211f0a4fa368506c94d9a590ff3d1 Asean could potentially produce up to 8.5 million barrels a day of the fuel by 2050, based on publicly available biomass and waste‑residue assessments. Asean could potentially produce up to 8.5 million barrels a day of sustainable aviation fuel by 2050, based on publicly available biomass and waste‑residue assessments. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/india-iran-war-costs-sitting-still The Business Times en 2026-05-21T07:00:00+08:00 India on Iran war: the costs of sitting still https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/cbc5e9a5471feb16abd443b0a95b16f8ea1d9fdc09e4b6c943c81f3d5f9e2003 Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Oslo on Tuesday. India has neither condemned the US-Israeli strikes nor played a meaningful mediator role. Its neutrality has been hard to miss. In response to India's strained petroleum reserves, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asked Indians to drive less, work from home when possible, and ease off on gold purchases. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/singapore-businesses-must-be-proactive-combat-rise-ai-enabled-fraud The Business Times en 2026-05-21T07:00:00+08:00 Singapore businesses must be proactive to combat rise of AI-enabled fraud https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/518c89f86fd614623329df565e1ba41a523d27749df9a098cb2db5b7a010fa17 The sophistication of social engineering scams using deepfake AI impersonation is evolving. The sophistication of social engineering scams using deepfake AI impersonation is evolving. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/why-singapore-overtook-indonesia-become-s-e-asias-largest-stock-market-and-what-happens-next The Business Times en 2026-05-21T07:00:00+08:00 Why Singapore overtook Indonesia to become S-E Asia’s largest stock market – and what happens next  https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4a8b483f143c0637b312f8d315b3eae40f90efa7a0d7fba29c58b541fc5c5979 The total market capitalisation of companies listed on the Singapore Exchange (SGX) has climbed to about US$644 billion, surpassing Indonesia’s stock market, which has fallen to about US$618 billion following a prolonged decline in Jakarta-listed shares, according to Bloomberg data as at May 19. Analysts say that the Singapore bourse is likely to retain its lead barring major shocks, given its improving market depth, regulatory stability and safe-haven status. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/does-singapore-have-shot-setting-another-raffles-hotel The Business Times en 2026-05-21T07:00:00+08:00 Does Singapore have a shot at setting up another Raffles Hotel? https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/71160902ff1f03b7338442c2267c2b1a680ebcdf79c04dca95041e39764d8f1c Raffles Hotel's success illustrates that its heritage-rich past does have an advantage. Raffles Hotel's success illustrates that its heritage-rich past does have an advantage in this day and age, with modern luxury hotels being a dime a dozen. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/events-awards/sustainability-impact-awards/asean-must-balance-energy-security-sustainability-power-its-future-say-panellists-bt-uob The Business Times en 2026-05-21T07:00:00+08:00 Asean must balance energy security with sustainability to power its future, say panellists at BT-UOB Sustainability Impact Dialogue https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/cb766713906ca473858dca81f19ffbba0f9ab7866f7dcd0997875d76a2266cef From left: Melissa Moi, head of sustainable business, UOB; Puah Kok Keong, chief executive, Energy Market Authority (EMA); Joshua Ngu, vice chairman for Asia Pacific, Wood Mackenzie. From left: Moderator Melissa Moi, head of sustainable business at UOB, and panellists Puah Kok Keong, chief executive of the Energy Market Authority, and Joshua Ngu, vice-chairman for Asia-Pacific at Wood Mackenzie. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/iran-reviewing-trumps-latest-proposal-ending-war-clock-ticks-ceasefire-us The Business Times en 2026-05-21T06:43:11+08:00 Iran reviewing Trump’s latest proposal on ending war, as clock ticks on ceasefire with US https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3e8de5f9469aa8cf1a173109ab455181fd1de06d23a154b62a01e9ab6502d823 Iran has largely shut the Strait of Hormuz to all ships apart from its own since the US-Israeli attacks began on Feb 28, causing the biggest disruption to global energy supplies in history. Iran has largely shut the Strait of Hormuz to all ships apart from its own since the US-Israeli attacks began on Feb 28. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/bond-yields-may-be-finally-baking-ai-world The Business Times en 2026-05-21T06:30:00+08:00 Bond yields may be finally baking in an AI world https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e4b8b0584447b482001fa8e0b11c1c58cbb8c7b94528ef271f0c7ba8cef64e49 Humanoid robotics may lift economy-wide productivity more than other AI forecasts suggest – but it will also affect more jobs. Humanoid robotics may lift economy-wide productivity more than other AI forecasts suggest – but it will also affect more jobs. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/oil-rebounds-us-iran-peace-deal-uncertainty-and-inventory-drawdowns The Business Times en 2026-05-21T06:14:54+08:00 Oil rebounds on US-Iran peace deal uncertainty and inventory drawdowns https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/44df98f249e6b299a881961479ac6e3e264c2f81f2070c3a9b81b67be6af4a4d Iran on May 20 announced a new “Persian Gulf Strait Authority,” saying there would be a “controlled maritime zone” in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran on May 20 announced a new “Persian Gulf Strait Authority,” saying there would be a “controlled maritime zone” in the Strait of Hormuz. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/wall-street-climbs-1-chip-stocks-rallying-nvidia-results The Business Times en 2026-05-21T06:02:28+08:00 Wall Street climbs 1% with chip stocks rallying before Nvidia results https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/fdb793860bd6c2390711b88f1df849ad49ddf3e475cf789a6e9da8f443334e79 The report from Nvidia is viewed as a window into whether the appetite for spending on AI remains strong enough to support lofty valuations across the technology sector. The report from Nvidia is viewed as a window into whether the appetite for spending on AI remains strong enough to support lofty valuations across the technology sector. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/worlds-rarest-pasta-hidden-mountains-sardinia The Business Times en 2026-05-21T06:00:00+08:00 The world’s rarest pasta is hidden in the mountains of Sardinia https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3e0b863bab792e1b9bc6cb47d11e4cc470a18b6b86fb24d5e34447efa511ade5 Hundreds of pilgrims set out from Nuoro, traversing over 32 km of mountainous terrain to the church of San Francesco di Lula in the village of Lula. Hundreds of pilgrims set out from Nuoro, traversing over 32 km of mountainous terrain to the church of San Francesco di Lula in the village of Lula. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/european-shares-end-near-two-week-highs-defence-tech-boost The Business Times en 2026-05-21T05:40:27+08:00 European shares end near two-week highs on defence, tech boost https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1f678221153e4deaa8b6d9ce7ec4e3512ca22178801674fdae395352afbc3bec The pan-European Stoxx 600 ended 1.6% higher at 620.29 points, with major indexes in the region, including Germany and France, up over 1.4% each. The pan-European Stoxx 600 ended 1.6% higher at 620.29 points, with major indexes in the region, including Germany and France, up over 1.4% each. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/podcasts/how-fly-f1-drivers-pop-stars-and-billionaires The Business Times en 2026-05-21T05:00:00+08:00 How to fly like F1 drivers, pop stars and billionaires https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/81d416058d00d3e99ff7de44267718b4ab77d7a6164aa4a2b61e1fc53da741ed How does Singapore stand as a business aviation market and key air hub? How does Singapore stand as a business aviation market and key air hub? https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/barclays-ceo-says-uk-should-seek-ways-lower-cost-brexit The Business Times en 2026-05-21T00:11:20+08:00 Barclays CEO says UK should seek ways to lower cost of Brexit https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/09b9962304ae76dd527bd9ba1bcc91d050ba8f5b69e59bc62da4bf7372731656 Barclays CEO CS Venkatakrishnan.  said Brexit had a definite economic cost to the UK economy over the past decade. Barclays CEO CS Venkatakrishnan.  said Brexit had a definite economic cost to the UK economy over the past decade. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/bank-ceos-ai-obsession-collides-warning-watchdogs The Business Times en 2026-05-20T23:43:19+08:00 Bank CEOs’ AI obsession collides with warning from watchdogs https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/94f1cb9ee99d1a88550046516f2ea3a5206964d250d1168ffeff100ef13edb94 HSBC Holdings, the UK’s largest lender, is looking into cutting around 20,000 jobs based on an assumption that AI will help it downsize its middle and back offices. HSBC is looking into cutting around 20,000 jobs based on an assumption that AI will help it downsize its middle and back offices. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/samsung-union-shelves-strike-plan-tentative-deal-yonhap-says The Business Times en 2026-05-20T22:55:13+08:00 Samsung union shelves strike plan on tentative deal, Yonhap says https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/73cdc23911fe6b7f8d176c07e4f825008820fe1ddd63134d06a539a1065adf92 A strike would have disrupted not just production but also complicated Samsung’s efforts to accelerate development of next-generation semiconductors. A strike would have disrupted not just production but also complicated Samsung’s efforts to accelerate development of next-generation semiconductors. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/switzerland-wants-workers-retire-later-wont-force-them The Business Times en 2026-05-20T22:25:11+08:00 Switzerland wants workers to retire later but won’t force them https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/191cdb2dbd247bf8ea442d51173cfa8b38337582b7fb6cc915f4559187c3398f Due to Switzerland’s high wages, workers in the country have a special incentive to retire early, adding extra strain. Due to Switzerland’s high wages, workers in the country have a special incentive to retire early, adding extra strain. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/intuit-cut-17-global-jobs-streamline-operations-memo The Business Times en 2026-05-20T22:16:46+08:00 Intuit to cut 17% of global jobs to streamline operations: memo https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6a8ef610d2a3bb6bed95fea9ddcdb65acd6040c71a937242021b02f96932e8f0 Over 140 tech companies have laid off more than 111,000 employees this year, according to Layoffs.fyi. Over 140 tech companies have laid off more than 111,000 employees this year, according to Layoffs.fyi. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/sp-500-nasdaq-open-higher-chip-stocks-gain-ahead-nvidia-results The Business Times en 2026-05-20T21:44:33+08:00 S&P 500, Nasdaq open higher as chip stocks gain ahead of Nvidia results https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/142705143b8389f0a1f5d23db432cef114de9706525b558e35671209a8e0bc9e The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 15.0 points, or 0.03 per cent, at the open to 49,348.83. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 15.0 points, or 0.03 per cent, at the open to 49,348.83. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/us-mortgage-rates-rose-last-week-almost-two-month-high The Business Times en 2026-05-20T21:19:14+08:00 US mortgage rates rose last week to an almost two-month high https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ca55553d9d299d7d74f7a70377915f490a6946970719bac13f9e236cbb4870fb Rising US mortgage rates threaten to spoil budding optimism about a pickup in housing activity. Rising US mortgage rates threaten to spoil budding optimism about a pickup in housing activity. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/uk-inflation-slows-2-8-april The Business Times en 2026-05-20T21:18:23+08:00 UK inflation slows to 2.8% in April https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/50d226cc36cdfa043a2af987ee92c3bd45803d1a4387b4c99cab807806289ca7 The key question for the Bank of England's interest-rate setters is whether the expected rise in headline inflation creates longer-term price pressures in the economy. The key question for the Bank of England's interest-rate setters is whether the expected rise in headline inflation creates longer-term price pressures in the economy. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/mas-revokes-bsquared-crypto-permit-over-serious-breaches The Business Times en 2026-05-20T20:48:23+08:00 MAS revokes Bsquared crypto permit over ‘serious breaches’ https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/db640c228cbcf24a32014493558e6d4645e783eb1be264e72a3f29c9daa78b90 Bsquared has provided false or misleading statements on multiple occasions in the time that it was licensed, MAS said. Bsquared has provided false or misleading statements on multiple occasions in the time that it was licensed, MAS said. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/mango-father-son-rift-over-inheritance-cited-heir-bail-order The Business Times en 2026-05-20T20:21:45+08:00 Mango father-son rift over inheritance cited in heir bail order https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/65192522f1f4ca459c848b1b64c833157724d57b2ab73fb84b8b30716103deb7 Jonathan Andic's lawyers said that the “homicide theory is unfounded” and that it “stigmatises an innocent man.” Jonathan Andic's lawyers said that the “homicide theory is unfounded” and that it “stigmatises an innocent man.” https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/indian-central-bank-intervenes-rupee-drops-record-low The Business Times en 2026-05-20T20:15:06+08:00 Indian central bank intervenes as rupee drops to record low https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/fb3df26dbcf5c2ceb2def3673be1c6476696e57b5bf0684852f2bd040e262b16 The Reserve Bank of India sold small amounts of US dollars in the onshore currency market to shore up the rupee. The Reserve Bank of India sold small amounts of US dollars in the onshore currency market to shore up the rupee. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/former-ocbc-trading-rep-ex-gm-sasseur-reit-affiliate-found-guilty-trading-offences The Business Times en 2026-05-20T20:11:40+08:00 Former OCBC trading rep, ex-GM of Sasseur Reit affiliate found guilty of trading offences  https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2c001acb9069174b7d4c2845bbc9982f353647bb1eb8b86acab79d2235c91902 The cases had been jointly investigated by MAS and the Commercial Affairs Department of the Singapore Police Force, following referrals from SGX. The cases were investigated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and the Commercial Affairs Department following referrals from Singapore Exchange. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/chatbots-struggle-news-accuracy-and-sourcing-ahead-us-midterms The Business Times en 2026-05-20T20:09:55+08:00 Chatbots struggle with news accuracy and sourcing ahead of US midterms https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3146a0d7049df2188c22c748d6135d58f6759d69898478478be28696def456eb Researchers found that the collective answers about elections, in particular, “failed on accuracy, bias, or source selection 90 per cent of the time." Researchers found that the collective answers about elections, in particular, “failed on accuracy, bias, or source selection 90 per cent of the time." https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/china-signals-it-will-accept-some-us-tariff-increase-talks The Business Times en 2026-05-20T19:24:35+08:00 China signals it will accept some US tariff increase in talks https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/941e7e9c7319b121bb28e317c9fb16158959e9c66ed5e7d0d151e532a6a2f345 The Commerce Ministry in Beijing has confirmed that the Board of Trade will seek to cut tariffs on at least US$30 billion worth of goods. The Commerce Ministry in Beijing has confirmed that the Board of Trade will seek to cut tariffs on at least US$30 billion worth of goods. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/esg/convergence-energy-security-and-climate-action-fragile-ravi-menon The Business Times en 2026-05-20T19:18:25+08:00 Convergence of energy security and climate action is ‘fragile’: Ravi Menon https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d49fefd131753219f17b068fbf81a69d63381e034c0004be31d54a2a7057b335 Ravi Menon, Singapore’s Ambassador for Climate Action and Senior Adviser (National Climate Change Secretariat), speaking at Ecosperity Week on May 20, 2026. Ravi Menon, Singapore’s ambassador for climate action and senior adviser to the National Climate Change Secretariat, at Ecosperity Week, Temasek’s flagship sustainability conference. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/daily-debrief-what-happened-today-may-202 The Business Times en 2026-05-20T18:45:00+08:00 Daily Debrief: What Happened Today (May 20) https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/534989dd09c6d78a42fdd3857d64f495a8907976cbfa66af14c4cb43d2bbd669 Denise Dresser, chief revenue officer at OpenAI, says Singapore has a "forward-leaning environment" and strong appetite for AI products. Denise Dresser, chief revenue officer at OpenAI, says Singapore has a "forward-leaning environment" and strong appetite for AI products. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/uk-house-price-growth-grinds-halt-after-loan-costs-surge The Business Times en 2026-05-20T18:44:07+08:00 UK house-price growth grinds to a halt after loan costs surge https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/529c08496c64914acd5a0646920a44cf6f68b171c0be8388432eecbb07c54871 The average value of a home was £268,000 (S$459,450) in March, unchanged from a year earlier. The average value of a home was £268,000 (S$459,450) in March, unchanged from a year earlier. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/cdls-singapore-property-sales-fall-s609-6-million-q1-global-hotel-revpar-rises-4-3 The Business Times en 2026-05-20T18:27:45+08:00 CDL’s Singapore property sales fall to S$609.6 million in Q1, global hotel RevPAR rises 4.3% https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2fb1a45fbefb18288bd48c0c60fc8aa15060a503e240885edfa05f99ab4a25d7 The sales were predominantly driven by the launch of its 246-unit freehold Newport Residences in January. CDL maintains cash reserves of S$2.1 billion, supported by S$4.3 billion in cash and undrawn committed credit facilities. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/singapore-stocks-end-lower-amid-downbeat-regional-showing-sti-down-0-5 The Business Times en 2026-05-20T18:14:43+08:00 Singapore stocks end lower amid downbeat regional showing; STI down 0.5% https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4a8b483f143c0637b312f8d315b3eae40f90efa7a0d7fba29c58b541fc5c5979 Across the broader market, gainers were outnumbered by losers 258 to 344, after 1.6 billion securities worth S$2.3 billion changed hands. Across the broader market gainers were outnumbered by losers 258 to 344, after 1.6 billion securities worth S$2.3 billion changed hands. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/grab-folds-indonesias-superbank-financial-services-segment-singtel-transfers-stake-gxs-bank The Business Times en 2026-05-20T18:09:26+08:00 Grab folds Indonesia’s Superbank into financial services segment; Singtel transfers stake to GXS Bank https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6d06f062254095946a754697b61602d9d082a27715909fc4cc704de38aa3a7dd Grab said the consolidation will deepen its financial services commitment in Indonesia, where the company sees a major opportunity for digital financial services. Superbank serves more than six million customers across Indonesia, with over a million transactions daily. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/malaysia-coalition-stay-intact-until-term-ends-says-minister The Business Times en 2026-05-20T17:44:59+08:00 Malaysia coalition to stay intact until term ends, says minister https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f2c1f52c58e74134a6f261563959f8264f9e13b1eaa7bdaa078ca7b267ccd046 Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil's remarks are aimed at easing concerns over the stability of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s administration after he earlier raised the prospect of a snap general election. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil's remarks are aimed at easing concerns over the stability of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s administration after he earlier raised the prospect of a snap general election. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/yeos-tiger-beer-and-now-gardenia-flight-food-manufacturing-singapore-might-be-just-planned The Business Times en 2026-05-20T17:42:40+08:00 Yeo’s, Tiger Beer and now Gardenia – flight of food manufacturing from Singapore might be just as planned https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a65ae9a577919c25d38236116533308664c1e0c98238a6d3b9e998eb5a4246f6 The departure of food manufacturing operations from Singapore may not necessarily be reason for concern. The departure of food manufacturing operations from Singapore may not necessarily be reason for concern. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/consumer-healthcare/nestle-and-danone-face-fresh-scrutiny-over-infant-formula-recalls The Business Times en 2026-05-20T17:35:05+08:00 Nestle and Danone face fresh scrutiny over infant formula recalls https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e492804a02e3f1d93e828fb5c8c0c7efe6fc5bb00a6b571141a891e57787a009 The investigation said Nestle had delayed alerting European authorities about the presence of cereulide, a toxin. The investigation said Nestle had delayed alerting European authorities about the presence of cereulide, a toxin. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/collapse-m1-simba-deal-reveals-chinks-singapores-cursed-telco-consolidation-dream The Business Times en 2026-05-20T17:13:36+08:00 Collapse of M1-Simba deal reveals chinks in Singapore’s cursed telco consolidation dream https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/24fdd4dd2f5803d400362b51d4ab4d9f9d816bf365f1b8eef18f193c1957d7aa Simba triggered a race to the bottom when it entered the market with aggressive price-war tactics. Simba triggered a race to the bottom when it entered the market with aggressive price-war tactics. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/us-pending-home-sales-increase-further-higher-mortgage-rates-remain-constraint The Business Times en 2026-05-20T16:50:25+08:00 US pending home sales increase further; higher mortgage rates remain a constraint https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6086560262cb2afb17caf17ca1ff316b8103af42d27c913ac04bae8e7e6cdf66 The pending home sales index rose 1.4 per cent last month to 74.8, the National Association of Realtors said on Tuesday. The pending home sales index rose 1.4 per cent last month to 74.8, the National Association of Realtors said on Tuesday. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/singapore-and-world-bank-team-launch-carbon-markets-programme The Business Times en 2026-05-20T16:44:00+08:00 Singapore and World Bank team up to launch carbon markets programme https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0e2b6f7b169ba7c5eaf6da4002933c56732e6ee35d635a6e903a736e91db4c26 Singapore implemented a carbon tax in 2019, and has developed an ecosystem of carbon-market players, service providers and exchanges. Singapore implemented a carbon tax in 2019, and has developed an ecosystem of carbon-market players, service providers and exchanges. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/stanchart-ceo-reassures-staff-after-lower-value-human-backlash The Business Times en 2026-05-20T16:39:32+08:00 StanChart CEO reassures staff after ‘lower-value human’ backlash https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/cf4bfcd2370948e08de44dde1ffbd9fb2cb773937b38a32a92d155576ce4f0c6 In his Wednesday memo to employees, StanChart CEO Bill Winters adopted a more empathetic tone. In his Wednesday memo to employees, StanChart CEO Bill Winters adopted a more empathetic tone. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/commercial-vehicle-coe-premium-5-4-record-high-s92223 The Business Times en 2026-05-20T16:30:28+08:00 Commercial vehicle COE premium up 5.4% at record high of S$92,223 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2b270b73cf10bb48991db62fb5d6578c4bbb0937e1232d15ec290cacbaf28933 Demand for electric heavy commercial vehicles have driven the Certificate of Entitlement premium to new heights, say industry figures. Demand for electric heavy commercial vehicles has driven the Certificate of Entitlement premium to new heights, say industry observers. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/prabowo-unveils-ambitious-growth-and-fiscal-deficit-targets-seeks-magnificent-prosperity The Business Times en 2026-05-20T16:13:53+08:00 Prabowo unveils ambitious growth and fiscal deficit targets, seeks 'magnificent prosperity' https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/27ad3b4ac0fd8fff5921fc741e1c9154025bfaad2e0efe4f56bb8ee4bf0190a7 “If we stay united and work together, private companies, SMEs, governments, regional or central, everyone has same calling – we can create magnificent prosperity,” Prabowo said. “If we stay united and work together, private companies, SMEs, governments, regional or central, everyone has same calling – we can create magnificent prosperity,” Prabowo said. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/indonesia-central-bank-delivers-hefty-interest-rate-rise-it-looks-stem-battered-rupiahs-fall The Business Times en 2026-05-20T16:02:28+08:00 Indonesia central bank delivers hefty interest rate rise as it looks to stem battered rupiah's fall https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1b4265408336ea5ac0c75d6f9994b21c7a4c85ccf2adc732b0745bcfc2e98442 Governor Perry Warjiyo told an online press conference that the policy rate decision is consistent with efforts to support the rupiah. Governor Perry Warjiyo told an online press conference that the increase is a further step to strengthen the stabilisation of the rupiah exchange rate. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/singapore-be-early-entrant-nuclear-fusion-supply-chain-star-us-startup-deal The Business Times en 2026-05-20T16:00:00+08:00 Singapore to be ‘early entrant’ in nuclear fusion supply chain with A*Star, US startup deal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/63d48582d1ec65c52d57def6c62ec81c505445fdd2176c7d9d318f625634d8b6 A*Star and CFS will also work on potential applications for the aerospace industry and other advanced engineering sectors. A*Star and CFS will also work on potential applications for the aerospace industry and other advanced engineering sectors. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/australian-shares-end-below-key-8500-level-price-pressures-keep-sentiment-muted The Business Times en 2026-05-20T15:56:17+08:00 Australian shares end below key 8,500 level as price pressures keep sentiment muted https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/71c9ac7cadfe075cdbbd0631db6d9a9c36b8bcae483cc52fa944584ad1253935 The S&P/ASX 200 index closed 1.3 per cent lower at 8,496.60 points on Wednesday. The S&P/ASX 200 index closed 1.3 per cent lower at 8,496.60 points on Wednesday. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/ai-bots-are-coming-and-young-are-booing-not-applauding The Business Times en 2026-05-20T15:38:29+08:00 The AI bots are coming and the young are booing, not applauding https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4258e3d6d04a4dd3eb94f9a03c80fa76d1e3fb1540e862f9717362c203d70ced Many tech firms are cutting staff, citing AI. Many tech firms are cutting staff, citing AI. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/european-shares-dip-middle-east-caution-lingers The Business Times en 2026-05-20T15:37:49+08:00 European shares dip as Middle East caution lingers https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d82e0c3caf8baa2c817b9560d50165e38c160a12ed7118439558d7b3e89dc50d The Stoxx 600 dipped 0.2 per cent to 610.37 points, as of 0701 GMT on Wednesday. The Stoxx 600 dipped 0.2 per cent to 610.37 points, as of 0701 GMT on Wednesday. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/japans-nikkei-ends-near-three-week-low-ai-stock-selloff-weighs The Business Times en 2026-05-20T15:23:12+08:00 Japan's Nikkei ends near three-week low as AI-stock selloff weighs https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1bc1b70ee68f0f622a980d4fbc3eb4167066e1a3370555126d515a6459e3a700 The Nikkei slipped 1.23 per cent to 59,804.41, its lowest close since May 1. The Nikkei slipped 1.23 per cent to 59,804.41, its lowest close since May 1. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/indonesias-tighter-commodity-export-control-raises-concerns-over-margin-pressure-producers The Business Times en 2026-05-20T15:12:32+08:00 Indonesia’s tighter commodity export control raises concerns over margin pressure for producers https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/213fe19fbe73bef54e7b7146e1e30f995b82533608a4adbfd5ac562f285175fb FILE PHOTO: A farmer harvests oil palm fruit at the Melati Hanjalipan cooperative plantation in Hanjalipan village, East Kotawaringin, Central Kalimantan province, Indonesia, July 22, 2025. REUTERS/Ajeng Dinar Ulfiana/File Photo The sharp reaction in commodity stocks reflects broader investor anxiety about potentially stronger state intervention. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/singapore-asian-nations-step-ebola-screening-after-who-declares-global-health-emergency The Business Times en 2026-05-20T15:10:01+08:00 Singapore, Asian nations step up Ebola screening after WHO declares global health emergency https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b7edbf923bebfdccedbb8527717d0d9d6662b3ffce14674a0087227a8e049743 More than 540 suspected cases and dozens of deaths linked to Ebola have been reported since the outbreak started in late April. More than 540 suspected cases and dozens of deaths linked to Ebola have been reported since the outbreak started in late April. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/smes/brewing-success-how-three-brothers-turned-brewerkz-groups-fortunes-around The Business Times en 2026-05-20T15:00:00+08:00 Brewing success: How three brothers turned Brewerkz Group’s fortunes around https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/9e95ee7394fef72119dfaf4fb0620ef221a8dbddf5d572ed98a2d54e5f50f5cb From left: Brothers Tan Wee Tuck, Wee Han and Wee Lee at the Enterprise 50 Awards ceremony. From left: Brothers Tan Wee Tuck, Wee Han and Wee Lee at the Enterprise 50 Awards ceremony in 2024, where Brewerkz was one of the winners. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/events-awards/design-ai-and-tech-awards/gallery/2026-final-award-presentation The Business Times en 2026-05-20T14:49:06+08:00 2026 Final Award Presentation https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/singapore-welcomes-competition-ai-leadership-not-zero-sum-game-gan-kim-yong The Business Times en 2026-05-20T14:38:55+08:00 Singapore welcomes competition for AI leadership; not a zero-sum game: Gan Kim Yong https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/724c891d8c9411621d9abeaa04cb03ea6c398601946a044ee6dfa2f06fa5f9a5 Asean can think about developing AI systems jointly, DPM Gan (left) says during a dialogue session with DBS CEO Tan Su Shan. Asean can think about developing AI systems jointly, said DPM Gan Kim Yong (left) at a dialogue session with DBS CEO Tan Su Shan. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/food-drink/giving-us-heart-attacks-how-home-grown-brand-fought-competition-almost-40-years The Business Times en 2026-05-20T14:25:24+08:00 ‘Giving us heart attacks’: How a home-grown brand fought competition for almost 40 years https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/60c3a5cbea5b6df28eb2a2971d5f9d5bc5846ae909110d98f2ec50852d4d3c99 Mayer started with just one product – the air fryer. Mayer started with just one product – the air fryer. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/consumer-healthcare/londons-global-healthcare-opportunities-and-singapore-based-cbc-group-merge-creating-investment The Business Times en 2026-05-20T14:20:59+08:00 London’s Global Healthcare Opportunities and Singapore-based CBC Group to merge creating investment giant: FT  https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/33ee89d8cfd67313104e515a925b6c9a182a06013cc00d7cd3f575dd8524fc4d "“This gives the healthcare sector the reason to be the most defensive sector," said Wei Fu, chief executive of CBC. "“This gives the healthcare sector the reason to be the most defensive sector," said Wei Fu, chief executive of CBC. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/indonesia-bring-commodity-exports-under-centralised-control-president-says The Business Times en 2026-05-20T13:49:20+08:00 Indonesia to bring commodity exports under centralised control, president says https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ca88b1b36f8cc5c871440deee646463ace819dcbc4d0b2a2dbeb5cf21ac528ef “The issuance of this regulation is a strategic step to strengthen management of commodity exports,” Prabowo Subianto says. The move by Prabowo is aimed at addressing concerns about under-invoicing and transfer pricing by exporters, according to sources. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/china-says-it-will-buy-200-boeing-jets-seek-extension-us-tariff-truce The Business Times en 2026-05-20T13:26:37+08:00 China says it will buy 200 Boeing jets, seek extension of US tariff truce https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4bf67bc12b6ad70d762c8703626d7d651d85f4c514ba4b413512da47af462bc9 Trump says after the Beijing summit that the Boeing purchases may rise to as many as 750 planes . Trump says after the Beijing summit that the Boeing purchases may rise to as many as 750 planes . https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/former-citiraya-ceo-hit-fresh-charges-spanning-corruption-money-laundering The Business Times en 2026-05-20T13:15:43+08:00 Former Citiraya CEO hit with fresh charges spanning corruption, money laundering https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1d802cfe764a8bfae0983fd64ad9f39a127b813a03870a0c0aac3348a6c54fef 本地挂牌公司伟城工业（Citiraya，目前改名为“盛隆环保”）前总裁黄德利（Ng Teck Lee）被指在2003年和2004年，利用公司牟取近6505万元的不义之财后下落不明，目前被通缉。控方为此向高庭成功申请，充公他总值近2244万元的资产。 Ng Teck Lee is said to have made more than US$51 million from his schemes, which involved allegedly misappropriating electronic scrap meant for disposal. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/indonesian-stocks-fall-tightened-commodity-export-controls The Business Times en 2026-05-20T13:01:21+08:00 Indonesian stocks fall on tightened commodity export controls https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ee212ce406b75d15262f9c87a4e767598a05b973556150d26ab2065b522e5587 Down about 26% this year, Indonesian shares have become the world’s worst-performing globally and its market has been overtaken by Singapore as South-east Asia’s largest. Down about 27% this year, Indonesian shares are the world’s worst-performing globally and its market has now been overtaken by Singapore as South-east Asia’s largest. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/qaf-owned-gardenia-axes-141-staff-singapore-shifts-production-johor-bahru The Business Times en 2026-05-20T12:23:15+08:00 QAF-owned Gardenia axes 141 staff in Singapore, shifts production to Johor Bahru https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/32857a39d7ea87784e7c9ef3a489d5e66901d4e43d525a3475f3976c7dbb239d Production at Gardenia’s Pandan Loop manufacturing facility will cease on Jun 30. Production at Gardenia’s Pandan Loop manufacturing facility will cease on Jun 30. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/frasers-sells-retail-complex-west-sydney-vicinity-centres-400-million The Business Times en 2026-05-20T12:15:31+08:00 Frasers sells retail complex in West Sydney to Vicinity Centres for A$400 million https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a49be5841c80221e38d98a5c513d8a639ec1ac96fc11579a5aaf7f0982dbb8ee ECQ's outlet concept spans approximately 20,000 sq m GLA and houses around 100 brands. ECQ's outlet concept spans about 20,000 sq m of GLA and houses around 100 brands. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/hong-kong-targets-july-launch-new-gold-clearing-system The Business Times en 2026-05-20T12:14:30+08:00 Hong Kong targets July launch for new gold-clearing system https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ad2d27b65f2afcb8a068a63d9ed0edd0a015b4753b3b0c68790db0a64b854f18 Unallocated accounts allow for faster and more scalable gold trading, which is important for liquidity. Unallocated accounts allow for faster and more scalable gold trading, which is important for liquidity. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/tankers-exit-strait-hormuz-trump-vance-talk-iran-deal-prospects The Business Times en 2026-05-20T12:13:51+08:00 Tankers exit Strait of Hormuz as Trump, Vance talk up Iran deal prospects https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7ec3581329847cd172f2efae8e19de31dc5c05f9c0f84b40cfaf0be0e4b97424 The conflict has caused the worst-ever disruption to global energy supplies, blocking hundreds of tankers from leaving the Gulf. The conflict has caused the worst-ever disruption to global energy supplies, blocking hundreds of tankers from leaving the Gulf. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/eu-paves-way-finalise-us-trade-deal-and-avoid-trump-tariff-hike The Business Times en 2026-05-20T12:02:28+08:00 EU paves way to finalise US trade deal and avoid Trump tariff hike https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/274e6a1a708d494ca54c45fee5ea061053469d0f1e6ed5ce809f91aa250b855d The internal EU deal should bring some calm to the world’s largest trading relationship, with an annual exchange of US$2 trillion in goods and services. The internal EU deal should bring some calm to the world’s largest trading relationship, with an annual exchange of US$2 trillion in goods and services. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/samsung-faces-risk-chip-disruption-after-labour-talks-collapse The Business Times en 2026-05-20T11:45:24+08:00 Samsung faces risk of chip disruption after labour talks collapse https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/73cdc23911fe6b7f8d176c07e4f825008820fe1ddd63134d06a539a1065adf92 Samsung faces the prospect of production delays as well as complications in accelerating the development of its next-generation semiconductors. Samsung faces the prospect of production delays as well as complications in accelerating the development of its next-generation semiconductors. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/openai-picks-singapore-first-applied-ai-lab-outside-us-s300-million-push-tap-incredible-talent-here The Business Times en 2026-05-20T11:30:00+08:00 OpenAI picks Singapore for first Applied AI Lab outside US in S$300 million push to tap ‘incredible talent here’ https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b73d0dbdc59cfc3da02eba6486dcb5646540ea33b7b28a3bdbd15b1195f81e42 Denise Dresser, chief revenue officer at OpenAI, says Singapore has a "forward-leaning environment" and strong appetite for AI products. Denise Dresser, chief revenue officer at OpenAI, says Singapore has a "forward-leaning environment" and strong appetite for AI products. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/putin-arrives-china-xi-talks-gas-project-agenda The Business Times en 2026-05-20T11:18:28+08:00 Putin arrives in China for Xi talks with gas project on agenda https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4fe6d9529d833b00d83b7c4f041e5a4fd7ed7931a234828d1a7f8785d357604b Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping will hold talks on Wednesday and also take tea together. Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping will hold talks on Wednesday and also take tea together. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/ocbc-outbids-banks-hsbc-indonesia-deal-wide-margin-sources The Business Times en 2026-05-20T11:10:58+08:00 OCBC outbids banks on HSBC Indonesia deal by wide margin: sources https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/fefd51382e3f092faaede76ba558ce6d8f14fbaea99ba310dc2d6321832d8f10 OCBC agreed to acquire the HSBC assets earlier this month to deepen its presence in Indonesia. OCBC agreed to acquire the HSBC assets earlier this month to deepen its presence in Indonesia. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/yangzijiang-shipbuilding-shareholders-pull-stock-down-3-3-margin-dilutive-orders The Business Times en 2026-05-20T10:59:15+08:00 Yangzijiang Shipbuilding shareholders pull stock down 3.3% on margin-dilutive orders https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1ad395175a42914043ea22df840359d693b3b99ecd8631f8a45248175efb2997 The counter dropped as low as S$3.74 at 10.18 am, down by S$0.2 or 5.1 per cent, with 21.8 million shares changing hands. The drop in share price came despite the company reporting that it had secured US$1.03 billion in new orders for the year to date. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/singapore-gasco-has-bought-enough-lng-last-rest-year The Business Times en 2026-05-20T10:25:01+08:00 Singapore GasCo has bought enough LNG to last for rest of year https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4e2e651778c821d49c5cc3a4a3910ecd6ddd88f4657fab64fb82c5e2a4348ec6 The Iran war has prompted governments to hunt for spot LNG shipments, switch to alternatives such as coal, and even implement fuel curbs to manage shortages. The Iran war has prompted governments to hunt for spot LNG shipments, switch to alternatives such as coal, and even implement fuel curbs to manage shortages. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/chinese-tankers-exit-strait-hormuz-4-million-barrels-crude-oil The Business Times en 2026-05-20T10:21:31+08:00 Chinese tankers exit Strait of Hormuz with 4 million barrels of crude oil https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/47c636d13af8cbcf373c08d71384c878c3296350bc4dcec2f2371efe4bcb3214 Hong Kong-flagged VLCC Ocean Lily loaded one million barrels each of Qatari al-Shaheen and Iraqi Basrah crude between late February and early March. Hong Kong-flagged VLCC Ocean Lily loaded one million barrels each of Qatari al-Shaheen and Iraqi Basrah crude between late February and early March. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/hsbc-ceo-says-ai-will-destroy-and-create-new-jobs-urges-staff-embrace-change The Business Times en 2026-05-20T10:07:23+08:00 HSBC CEO says AI will destroy and create new jobs, urges staff to embrace change https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0f85ee36aada16ad1bf9f89e1bd8a0337a53184d30a9b21984cd386a7c579731 HSBC chief Georges Elhedery says the bank is deploying AI across multiple functions and businesses to simplify operations and personalise content to customers. HSBC chief Georges Elhedery says the bank is deploying AI across multiple functions and businesses to simplify operations and personalise content to customers. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/trump-tells-fed-consider-fintech-access-payment-accounts The Business Times en 2026-05-20T09:33:53+08:00 Trump tells Fed to consider fintech access to payment accounts https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/463de586c211eb4836bb7e04c24e81b1d389d9165721911bb3cbfc369d9defbe The Fed has previously signalled it will open its payment rails to more crypto and fintech firms. The Fed has previously signalled it will open its payment rails to more crypto and fintech firms. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/singapore-updates-national-ai-strategy-partners-google-and-openai The Business Times en 2026-05-20T09:21:51+08:00 Singapore updates national AI strategy, partners Google and OpenAI https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/25c6f11e57a60f3628aebed7a56fcefadae3224bd2d7a3f1749b477bc7947f78 Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo is sharing an update on the National AI Strategy 2.0 at the ATxSummit on Wednesday. Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo shared an update on the National AI Strategy 2.0 at the ATxSummit on May 20. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/singapore-among-global-firms-eyeing-hong-kong-listings-ipo-rebound-broadens The Business Times en 2026-05-20T09:20:39+08:00 Singapore among global firms eyeing Hong Kong listings as IPO rebound broadens https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/87196069eda0a5f2628d97e2def8bfb4e5409c92522a657479c4284704135741 The Hong Kong exchange, which is the most preferred venue for Chinese companies looking to raise offshore capital, was the world’s top market for IPOs last year. The Hong Kong exchange, which is the most preferred venue for Chinese companies looking to raise offshore capital, was the world’s top market for IPOs last year. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/esg/temasek-backed-fund-under-singapores-blended-finance-initiative-hits-us800-million-second-close The Business Times en 2026-05-20T09:16:09+08:00 Temasek-backed fund under Singapore’s blended finance initiative hits US$800 million in second close https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/fc06edf049f0cca9328a907579337b158ba2314954bd436448deb05d6577d2ae Generic photo for stories related to ESG, solar power, sustainability, energy renewal. Fast-P was launched by MAS at the United Nations' 2023 climate change conference in Dubai. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/hongkong-land-q1-underlying-profit-rises-5-lower-borrowing-costs The Business Times en 2026-05-20T08:54:00+08:00 Hongkong Land Q1 underlying profit rises 5% on lower borrowing costs https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/af90539f5329f51cb11cc0d1147c35bef17c5faf81017e8a656c7637dde0882a The group also said that sustained capital recycling efforts during the period secured a further US$0.6 billion in net proceeds, bringing cumulative capital recycled to US$3.6 billion. Profit contribution from the Hong Kong Central portfolio was broadly in line with the prior year period. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/agentic-ai-growth-exacerbating-supply-chain-issues-dell-technologies-ceo The Business Times en 2026-05-20T08:46:24+08:00 Agentic AI growth exacerbating supply chain issues: Dell Technologies CEO https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/378e0f798d04b52ac41dc25890642808ce43f0fb4aaf217c41fc3280f8262008 Dell CEO Michael Dell says chip supply might have caught up with demand if not for the growth in agentic AI. Dell CEO Michael Dell says chip supply might have caught up with demand if not for the growth in agentic AI. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/nato-starting-consider-strait-hormuz-mission-protect-ships The Business Times en 2026-05-20T08:41:39+08:00 Nato is starting to consider Strait of Hormuz mission to protect ships https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c9d671f45ceae0f728e8e19936e4b1c42b0c7265ef4a586b0ccda37ae6f64c67 Economic woes are deepening, with the strait’s closure sending energy prices soaring and growth forecasts tumbling. Economic woes are deepening, with the strait’s closure sending energy prices soaring and growth forecasts tumbling. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/stocks-watch-hongkong-land-yangzijiang-shipbuilding-sia-sembcorp-delfi The Business Times en 2026-05-20T08:39:20+08:00 Stocks to watch: Hongkong Land, Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, SIA, Sembcorp, Delfi https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1ad395175a42914043ea22df840359d693b3b99ecd8631f8a45248175efb2997 Yangzijiang Shipbuilding on May 19 said it secured US$1.03 billion in new orders for the year to date, bringing its outstanding order book to US$22.3 billion. Yangzijiang Shipbuilding has secured US$1.03 billion in new orders for the year to date. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/singapore-staff-first-know-metas-8000-global-job-cuts The Business Times en 2026-05-20T08:34:18+08:00 Singapore staff first to know in Meta’s 8,000 global job cuts  https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2b5da0d09d362fe06983d92ac4a18c968ac960c94514dd04dfd96efccb70c243 FILE PHOTO: The logo of Meta is seen during the Viva Technology conference dedicated to innovation and startups at Porte de Versailles exhibition center in Paris, France, June 12, 2025. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier/File Photo Meta’s aggressive spending on AI has caused concern among investors, who worry that the company’s investment may not ultimately pay off. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/global-bond-sell-threatens-turmoil-weakest-asian-economies The Business Times en 2026-05-20T07:48:20+08:00 Global bond sell-off threatens turmoil in weakest Asian economies https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3a7ceceb612bb90d573eb00a80c87e30ac3f9b34406f496ba6de5116fb5f2bd8 Bank Indonesia is widely expected to raise interest rates on Wednesday after stepping up intervention to defend the rupiah, which has plumbed new record lows. Bank Indonesia has already been buying up long-term bonds while selling short-term paper to lure more inflows to underpin the currency. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/singapores-real-startup-problem-not-funding The Business Times en 2026-05-20T07:30:00+08:00 Singapore’s real startup problem is not funding https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0f8792b9a4e72073d0668bc4fc0967d3603ad455b27a2c94f8b8da8ab2766010 Generic image of Singapore's skyline. Singapore's patents, research grants, research and development intensity, as well as technical talent, all rank in the global top tier. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/gold-rises-interest-rate-fears-ease-us-iran-deal-optimism The Business Times en 2026-05-20T07:17:06+08:00 Gold rises as interest rate fears ease on US-Iran deal optimism https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d08aa81782eaed6a18ef435811e5dee49f89e0c9baf79ed8274ba9179af6f02a Gold has traded in a narrow range since falling sharply in the early days of the conflict. Investors are waiting for the minutes of the Fed’s April policy meeting, due later in the day, to gauge the central bank’s monetary policy outlook. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/chinas-ai-industry-transitioning-technology-catch-value-capture-morgan-stanley The Business Times en 2026-05-20T07:00:00+08:00 China’s AI industry transitioning from technology catch-up to value capture: Morgan Stanley https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/41cd2444fdbb631885dccc10e89924ff734310985b1e65ad1ec6f5153f63e745 Rather than competing purely at the global frontier of model parameter scale, Chinese tech enablers and adopters are shifting their centre of gravity downward into practical deployment. The Morgan Stanley report says that rather than competing purely at the frontier, China is “optimising for speed, cost efficiency and system-level integration", so AI diffuses through the economy. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/few-chief-ai-officers-singapore-listcos-despite-growing-ai-push-survey The Business Times en 2026-05-20T07:00:00+08:00 Few chief AI officers at Singapore listcos despite growing AI push: survey https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1d2f1576ac2599831374665f0ece5dd06713ec7cacd5f5bbebb139337c109996 A recent report by IBM found that 76% of surveyed organisations globally have a dedicated CAIO role, however, adoption among listed companies in Singapore remains limited. About 44% of Asia-Pacific leaders say AI is one of the most significant issues their organisations expect to face in 2026, says Heidrick & Struggles. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/wholesale-stablecoins-fad-or-future The Business Times en 2026-05-20T07:00:00+08:00 Wholesale stablecoins: fad or future? https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ea938084157573a39288598939223d07dc7d9e1c44b24467d71ea1b35327437b The actual volume of real stablecoin payments amounts to a mere US$390 billion, research by McKinsey and Artemis Analytics has found. The actual volume of real stablecoin payments amounts to a mere US$390 billion, research by McKinsey and Artemis Analytics has found. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/commonwealths-economic-momentum-grows The Business Times en 2026-05-20T07:00:00+08:00 Commonwealth’s economic momentum grows https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d99a98d10831a54a1414b7a0656b11ab0b3b05b1c29117b97691a0b8528578af Visitors in front of the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. India has lately picked up the pace of liberalising trade, striking deals with the UK and New Zealand. Visitors in New Delhi. India has lately picked up the pace of liberalising trade, striking deals with the UK and New Zealand. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/quantify-be-ambitious-time-cdl-uol-unveil-plans-further-boost-share-price The Business Times en 2026-05-20T07:00:00+08:00 Quantify, be ambitious: Time for CDL, UOL to unveil plans to further boost share price https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b6f4333f66e3dac66141270cd783f99a5bf23515d645eede86b70526c2cdffa1 Might UOL look to privatise Singapore Land Group or sell its investments in UOB and Haw Par Corporation? UOL could look to privatise Singapore Land Group or sell its investments in UOB and Haw Par Corporation as optimal strategies. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/us-30-year-yield-hits-highest-2007-sell-deepens The Business Times en 2026-05-20T06:46:51+08:00 US 30-year yield hits highest since 2007 as sell-off deepens https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c5f0a22ba8618092922e32e3cd9d8e5c17ee549d6ab0665f1fed9c77a35742ca Persistently higher yields threaten to slow the US economy, which has so far proved resilient, and lift borrowing costs for US home buyers and corporations. Persistently higher yields threaten to slow the US economy, which has so far proved resilient, and lift borrowing costs for US home buyers and corporations. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/columns/pain-started-long-us150-oil The Business Times en 2026-05-20T06:45:00+08:00 The pain started long before US$150 oil https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/adbc642d8eeda96a13084c097a405eb474e4d75b41f901d4a744624f4bae2f67 There is only a 28% chance that traffic through the Strait of Hormuz will return to normal by end-June, based on Polymarket prediction. There is only a 28% chance that traffic through the Strait of Hormuz will return to normal by end-June, based on Polymarket prediction. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/oil-prices-settle-down-after-vance-cites-progress-iran-talks The Business Times en 2026-05-20T06:14:37+08:00 Oil prices settle down after Vance cites progress in Iran talks https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5bb1b3d7af2b82522f2599d22adb8e1d690bf55ca62b1fda4bb909d8c3c3c6e8 Chinese state refiners have slashed oil throughput by more than one million barrels per day since the outbreak of the Iran war, analysts and market sources say. Chinese state refiners have slashed oil throughput by more than one million barrels per day since the outbreak of the Iran war, analysts and market sources say. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/louvre-announces-architects-expansion-will-include-new-mona-lisa-space The Business Times en 2026-05-20T06:00:00+08:00 Louvre announces architects for expansion that will include new ‘Mona Lisa’ space https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/487d8e024270997172897042d4b04db23558e22bd4d2a18a64b760dba9f11d47 The makeover would be the Louvre’s biggest transformation since the glass pyramid designed by IM Pei, which became the main entrance to the palace in 1989. The makeover would be the Louvre’s biggest transformation since the glass pyramid designed by IM Pei, which became the main entrance to the palace in 1989. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/wall-street-ends-lower-inflation-worries-push-yields The Business Times en 2026-05-20T05:53:42+08:00 Wall Street ends lower as inflation worries push up yields https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3a274cf761cf16a3d4e3c771c6ba7ce0263006de41e779aa4058c8c95fa94520 Higher yields often put pressure on shares of high-growth companies because their valuations depend heavily on future profit expectations. Higher yields often put pressure on shares of high-growth companies because their valuations depend heavily on future profit expectations. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/european-shares-end-slightly-higher-investors-weigh-iran-peace-proposal The Business Times en 2026-05-20T05:39:10+08:00 European shares end slightly higher as investors weigh Iran peace proposal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b30bdfa6cc7d915271b28f385e4c1b9c9d5530abaa49359476124448dffd8777 The benchmark has lagged global peers, as its dependence on oil imports and lack of strong exposure to artificial intelligence hardware stocks limited gains. The pan-European Stoxx 600 finished 0.2% higher at 611.34 points, still trading below pre-war levels. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/trump-denies-xi-told-him-putin-would-regret-ukraine-war The Business Times en 2026-05-20T00:11:48+08:00 Trump denies Xi told him that Putin would regret Ukraine war https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b726efbe0c3f8e460bfb6e6e443e81f0c8fb8f89ccb173d528ac9e55e0b73b0f US President Donald Trump speaks with Chinese President Xi Jinping while leaving after a visit to the Zhongnanhai Garden in Beijing, China, May 15, 2026. US President Donald Trump speaks with Chinese President Xi Jinping while leaving after a visit to the Zhongnanhai Garden in Beijing, China, May 15, 2026. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/asian-companies-face-annual-costs-us336-billion-climate-risks-2030-report The Business Times en 2026-05-19T23:24:57+08:00 Asian companies to face annual costs of US$336 billion from climate risks by 2030: report https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b22c330bd1550fbc3674f30f9cc05c240ec711f6374db4f67c26474dcaf95c61 A McKinsey report notes that the region faces a US$25 billion shortfall in funding needed for climate adaptation measures to reach developed-market standards. A McKinsey report notes that the region faces a US$25 billion shortfall in funding needed for climate adaptation measures to reach developed-market standards. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/uk-explores-invite-only-investor-visa-ps5-million-cost The Business Times en 2026-05-19T23:15:28+08:00 UK explores ‘invite-only’ investor visa with £5 million cost https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6c0f211074c41742ad27adaab558c439ae6d628f18cf47fe1fd39c17c715568b The UK’s reputation as a destination for globally-mobile rich investors has taken a hit in recent years. The UK’s reputation as a destination for globally-mobile rich investors has taken a hit in recent years. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/china-trade-corridor-good-foundation-do-more-bilateral-cooperation-not-sure-win-wins-sm-lee The Business Times en 2026-05-19T22:42:28+08:00 China trade corridor a good foundation to do more, as bilateral cooperation not sure ‘win-wins’: SM Lee https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/95207d6616b307bd671ab16c7b159f373e6117a286a7792f8580a770321a1c47 SM Lee Hsien Loong (left) meets with Chen Gang, secretary of the Communist Party of China of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Regional Committee, at Nanning's Liyuan Resort. Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong (left) meeting with Chen Gang, secretary of the Communist Party of China of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Regional Committee, at Nanning's Liyuan Resort on May 19. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/g7-finance-ministers-agree-need-action-economic-imbalances The Business Times en 2026-05-19T22:32:08+08:00 G7 finance ministers agree need for action on economic imbalances https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c444086b4423d0dd94862e893a2fa2e24fe37b5b163d85e64da6a80373acdc7a Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Banque de France Governor Francois Villeroy de Galhau pose with other attendees at a G7 meeting in Paris, France, May 18, 2026. Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Banque de France Governor Francois Villeroy de Galhau pose with attendees at a G7 meeting in Paris, France, May 18, 2026. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/sembcorp-digital-reef-announce-phase-1-280-mw-uk-data-centre The Business Times en 2026-05-19T22:15:01+08:00 Sembcorp, Digital Reef announce phase 1 of 280 MW UK data centre https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/89444bd7ef6612b940d81d53adf5a40defa36a588668ce082d08bb7bf9fe0b7c An artist's impression of the data centre at Wilton International, which is expected to support high-performance computing, artificial intelligence and machine learning workloads. The data centre at Wilton International is expected to support high-performance computing, artificial intelligence and machine learning workloads. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/sp-500-and-nasdaq-open-lower-chip-stocks-drag-inflation-fears-persist The Business Times en 2026-05-19T21:44:22+08:00 S&P 500 and Nasdaq open lower as chip stocks drag, inflation fears persist https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/142705143b8389f0a1f5d23db432cef114de9706525b558e35671209a8e0bc9e The S&P 500 fell 27.3 points, or 0.37 per cent, at the open to 7,375.75​, while the Nasdaq Composite dropped 167.2 points, or 0.64 per cent, to 25,923.486 at the opening bell. The S&P 500 fell 27.3 points, or 0.37 per cent, at the open to 7,375.75​, while the Nasdaq Composite dropped 167.2 points, or 0.64 per cent, to 25,923.486 at the opening bell. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/transport-logistics/nissan-eyes-exporting-chinese-made-electric-cars-canada The Business Times en 2026-05-19T21:43:15+08:00 Nissan eyes exporting Chinese-made electric cars to Canada https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4ed10d0160376fe449fe8dba5860e46e83f74ea5730b7d0240cc3ef2d13865d0 Nissan is leaning on China to help reverse its fortunes as it faces mounting headwinds in the US and Japan. Nissan is leaning on China to help reverse its fortunes as it faces mounting headwinds in the US and Japan. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/fosun-has-picked-banks-hong-kong-ipo-club-med-holiday-resort-chain-sources The Business Times en 2026-05-19T21:26:23+08:00 Fosun has picked banks for Hong Kong IPO of Club Med holiday resort chain: sources https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/deb8de32baf7f51153ee19ff9b8adbb2f829afa45109705be5225885338e0f79 Fosun, backed by billionaire Guo Guangchang, owns Club Med through Fosun Tourism Group. Fosun, backed by billionaire Guo Guangchang, owns Club Med through Fosun Tourism Group.