https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/esg/green-economy-tops-us10-trillion-revenue-growth-accelerates The Business Times en 2026-06-17T18:45:57+08:00 Green economy tops US$10 trillion as revenue growth accelerates https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/68ee9f1205f7e4846d527ac50ba4ebd1c6aa68f58b6e8ae3408b89959a183855 Despite rising geopolitical tensions and a retreat from climate priorities in some major economies, green industries have proved remarkably resilient. Despite rising geopolitical tensions and a retreat from climate priorities in some major economies, green industries have proved remarkably resilient. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/daily-debrief-what-happened-today-jun-171 The Business Times en 2026-06-17T18:30:00+08:00 Daily Debrief: What Happened Today (Jun 17) https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1b616b51c8c6e64a89bc260170e0b834a040d0b3b42f5a10b9f4c0cc1a5509db The full-year median forecasts are 2.3% for headline inflation and 2% for core inflation, both up from 1.5% in the March survey. The full-year median forecasts are 2.3% for headline inflation and 2% for core inflation, both up from 1.5% in the March survey. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/iea-expects-significant-2027-oil-surplus-after-hormuz-recovery The Business Times en 2026-06-17T18:18:52+08:00 IEA expects significant 2027 oil surplus after Hormuz recovery https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/73bd3ff5099cda1f56e2346d5764347a068d03a195b0e7a1e92bbfd162e8c5b5 The Iran war is estimated to have blocked more than 14 million barrels a day of Middle East oil output, says the IEA. The Iran war is estimated to have blocked more than 14 million barrels a day of Middle East oil output, says the IEA. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/ai-demand-keep-singapores-export-growth-robust-despite-middle-east-uncertainty-economists The Business Times en 2026-06-17T18:12:09+08:00 AI demand to keep Singapore’s export growth robust despite Middle East uncertainty: economists https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4e3657a4dca5907451e19287d2ed9bcc574a8649117ad44d7a8d1a7854187bb5 May’s NODX growth figure also outperformed economists’ median forecast of 30.5 per cent year-on-year growth, a Bloomberg poll showed. May’s NODX growth figure also outperformed economists’ median forecast of 30.5 per cent year-on-year growth, a Bloomberg poll showed. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/trumps-renewed-tariffs-will-likely-expedite-asean-integration The Business Times en 2026-06-17T18:00:00+08:00 Trump’s renewed tariffs will likely expedite Asean integration https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a0c5135c3ffd444c6527ab6c1366f116b6b1efd466af4d6866f63f71acd14e20 US President Donald Trump has not let up on his tariffs agenda, seeking to leverage other acts to achieve his signature economic policy. US President Donald Trump has not let up on his tariffs agenda, seeking to leverage other acts to achieve his signature economic policy. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/if-brussels-starts-trade-war-beijing-will-finish-it The Business Times en 2026-06-17T18:00:00+08:00 If Brussels starts a trade war, Beijing will finish it https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/275ce322746800d27b91e96c0e8aeea83e6e6ffae590ef9314cca4b3f95c7575 Researchers have argued, with justification, that the EU can exploit a variety of Chinese dependencies on Europe. Researchers have argued, with justification, that the EU can exploit a variety of Chinese dependencies on Europe. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/singapores-sea-tests-ai-chatbot-migoo-quiet-us-foray The Business Times en 2026-06-17T17:41:29+08:00 Singapore’s Sea tests AI chatbot Migoo in quiet US foray https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/801647b4d4eddf4307584b06e53173478c9352245810dc9dc850c20d32843424 Sea's net income in the latest quarter rose 73% but missed the analyst conensus. In the US, Sea is going after the lucrative and very competitive Gen-Z AI market. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asia-reports-sharp-rise-cybercrimes-and-scams-interpol The Business Times en 2026-06-17T17:37:22+08:00 Asia reports sharp rise in cybercrimes and scams: Interpol https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/eb0e7ddf729b00fb552b95c8d853c50a8bce40c1cb667174d7152ab9b2ae47b9 Governments across Asia are grappling with an explosion in online fraud, fuelled by sprawling scam networks. Governments across Asia are grappling with an explosion in online fraud, fuelled by sprawling scam networks. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/uae-moves-cut-dependency-strait-hormuz-zero The Business Times en 2026-06-17T17:18:48+08:00 UAE moves to cut dependency on Strait of Hormuz to ‘zero’ https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c135381d260e86fcbfee1d24ceed8e2cb345e8710346e6498e1b7bc903fd5488 “We’re moving towards having zero Hormuz dependency and that’s regardless of whether it’s open or not,” the UAE’s Minister of Foreign Trade Thani Al Zeyoudi said. “We’re moving towards having zero Hormuz dependency and that’s regardless of whether it’s open or not,” the UAE’s Minister of Foreign Trade Thani Al Zeyoudi said. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/iran-deal-includes-us300-billion-fund-more-half-which-already-committed-source The Business Times en 2026-06-17T17:12:58+08:00 Iran deal includes US$300 billion fund, more than half of which already committed: source https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4854f2e5330f4271c5786f58fb866cdfe41c17f99816d811d80b467df21b988d Iran has a young, educated population of more than 92 million people, a diversified industrial base and significant untapped potential in sectors ranging from petrochemicals and mining to tourism and agriculture. Iran has a young, educated population of more than 92 million people, a diversified industrial base and significant untapped potential in sectors ranging from petrochemicals and mining to tourism and agriculture. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/asean-must-retain-more-value-its-digital-economy-races-towards-us2-trillion-indonesian-minister The Business Times en 2026-06-17T17:08:04+08:00 Asean must retain more value as its digital economy races towards US$2 trillion: Indonesian minister https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/52e44495c2641fd3502a90fb6daa6fa0b82d407b6ee777c7fb4ed780371ac6f1 Indonesia’s Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid says sovereignty is about "having control at home and the confidence to cooperate abroad". Indonesia’s Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid says sovereignty is about "having control at home and the confidence to cooperate abroad". https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/transport-logistics/bmw-plans-cut-more-costs-after-china-slump-hits-outlook The Business Times en 2026-06-17T17:05:13+08:00 BMW plans to cut more costs after China slump hits outlook https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/403e538939e98fccca015b8498366228eaa22c78af62a6b23184b2d4b55a57e1 BMW had so far been on more solid footing than its peers in the face of the difficult transition to electric cars. BMW had so far been on more solid footing than its peers in the face of the difficult transition to electric cars. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/cat-coe-rate-exceeds-cat-b-third-time-4-months-premiums-largely-down The Business Times en 2026-06-17T16:49:23+08:00 Cat A COE rate exceeds Cat B for third time in 4 months; premiums largely down https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/87f7165fb8e7589e08258f73f06fcb5f739aa2338863e930a5817fefc9be3499 Traffic on the Pan Island Expressway westbound. The Open category COE rose S$2 to S$129,002. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/brexit-10-years-uk-exporters-still-adjusting-life-outside-eu The Business Times en 2026-06-17T16:39:52+08:00 Brexit 10 years on: UK exporters still adjusting to life outside the EU https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/78d4acdb8975fefe13960e0e79d57d093988399b5d8ae43fdfaa33df50eb6f69 British cheesemaker Michael Harte hopes to start exports to Malaysia this year and is seeking approvals in Vietnam, Thailand and mainland China and other markets. British cheesemaker Michael Harte hopes to start exports to Malaysia this year and is seeking approvals in Vietnam, Thailand and mainland China and other markets. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/hdb-launches-6952-bto-flats-including-prime-projects-berlayar-and-upper-thomson The Business Times en 2026-06-17T15:52:18+08:00 HDB launches 6,952 BTO flats, including Prime projects in Berlayar and Upper Thomson https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d5434669e10c62a3644193014b568c29dbceb2145020b3e57226433814e26ab6 Kebun Baru Ridge will have a wait of three years and one month. Kebun Baru Ridge will have a wait of three years and one month. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/spacex-draws-us800-million-south-korean-investors-trading-debut The Business Times en 2026-06-17T15:50:33+08:00 SpaceX draws US$800 million from South Korean investors on trading debut https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1ddd04086310bd442f62ed6f76f43fda43db8b39dbbc6b64eed7a605a9f7675e SpaceX is the most popular US stock among the more than 14 million investors based in South Korea, based on Korea Securities Depository data. SpaceX is the most popular US stock among the more than 14 million investors based in South Korea, based on Korea Securities Depository data. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/japans-nikkei-closes-record-high-near-70000-ai-boost The Business Times en 2026-06-17T15:45:16+08:00 Japan's Nikkei closes at record high near 70,000 on AI boost https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5242dcfcc8b21c05c69b4d88a0f6af5a18385ddd465c2cf2d0b0a3a2cf339a0e The Nikkei rose 0.7 per cent to close at 69,902.25 after touching an intraday high of 70,125.75. The Nikkei rose 0.7 per cent to close at 69,902.25 after touching an intraday high of 70,125.75. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/keppel-bags-fourth-fibre-pair-deal-bifrost-cable-system-global-technology-leader The Business Times en 2026-06-17T15:40:34+08:00 Keppel bags fourth fibre pair deal on Bifrost Cable System with ‘global technology leader’ https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/65d7452cd8c6ebe2d5e4474e6bdad0eee06085fb99b87cc0c6f3a3535f2c50c0 Keppel’s investment in the Bifrost fibre pairs is “held through a 40-60 joint venture with its private fund co-investors”. Keppel’s investment in the Bifrost fibre pairs is “held through a 40-60 joint venture with its private fund co-investors”. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/smes/tong-seng-produce-ramps-capabilities-meet-singapores-growing-rice-stockpiling-needs The Business Times en 2026-06-17T15:31:27+08:00 Tong Seng Produce ramps up capabilities to meet Singapore’s growing rice stockpiling needs https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1cb82ae79a71a01fb2727668339f9ea49393321531b7e7217b5fe05c66af3feb Jerry Ng, Managing Director, Tong Seng Produce Managing director Jerry Ng says Tong Seng views its stockpile obligations as "an important responsibility" aligned with its mission to be a trusted rice supplier. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/uk-inflation-unexpectedly-holds-steady-2-8-may The Business Times en 2026-06-17T15:27:51+08:00 UK inflation unexpectedly holds steady at 2.8% in May https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6d8c074a45e43af0a6f26f5f806c855c4a12ce9faa4ef6aade6fc819aa2ccb46 Shoppers pass market stalls at Walthamstow Market in London, UK, on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025. Keir Starmer pledged that better times lie ahead for the UK next year, as his government struggles to revive the country’s stagnant economy and his ruling Labour Party stutters in the polls. Photographer: Chris Ratcliffe/Bloomberg Price growth in the services sector – which is monitored for signs of domestic pressures – still climbed to 3.7 per cent, more than forecast. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/small-unloved-and-unkempt-these-unusual-properties-are-hot-australia The Business Times en 2026-06-17T15:22:44+08:00 Small, unloved and unkempt, these unusual properties are hot in Australia https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/cdec63f5941d8c0ce6a71ec8e8433b7f349453b33e9c7c883eaebf6d4993d128 A decommissioned electrical substation on the main thoroughfare near Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia. Such properties are highly desirable in the country's expensive housing market. A decommissioned electrical substation on the main thoroughfare near Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia. Such properties are highly desirable in the country's expensive housing market. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/nomura-sees-30-increase-wholesale-revenue-boom-persists The Business Times en 2026-06-17T15:09:45+08:00 Nomura sees 30% increase in wholesale revenue as boom persists https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7f7e464991030acc964334a8a5e8a82d3f2c5215b3d93059e02973ae3bb44c49 Shares of Nomura jumped as much as 4.5% after the company issued the guidance, taking this year’s advance to 12%.   Shares of Nomura jumped as much as 4.5% after the company issued the guidance, taking this year’s advance to 12%.   https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/australia-shares-close-two-month-high-middle-east-optimism The Business Times en 2026-06-17T15:05:41+08:00 Australia shares close at two‑month high on Middle East optimism https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3ad57876201f6b3d4692bf1739fa533fad449648a074cef2829262e16944ab18 The benchmark S&P/ASX 200 index .AXJO ended 0.5 per cent higher at 8,966.30 points, its highest level since April 15. The benchmark S&P/ASX 200 index .AXJO ended 0.5 per cent higher at 8,966.30 points, its highest level since April 15. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/how-sand-became-golfs-most-valuable-amenity The Business Times en 2026-06-17T15:00:28+08:00 How sand became golf’s most valuable amenity https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c1767f5444566c6aa20f927813cd845ddf1785db3d3be381f55ed258ece5b48d The golf courses at the Fall Line in Mauk, Georgia are a testament to the power of building in sandy terrain. The golf courses at the Fall Line in Mauk, Georgia are a testament to the power of building in sandy terrain. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/messi-world-cup-sticker-mania-spurs-black-market-argentina The Business Times en 2026-06-17T14:49:14+08:00 Messi World Cup sticker mania spurs black market in Argentina https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a2e5a88b964412c056bd631ded683415961557e32cdc83a80ec7bc428febc841 Lionel Messi celebrating after scoring Argentina's first goal against Algeria on Jun 16 in Kansas City, Missouri. Lionel Messi celebrating after scoring Argentina's first goal against Algeria on Jun 16 in Kansas City, Missouri. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/sun-phuquoc-airways-announces-ambitious-international-expansion-aims-200-aircraft-2035 The Business Times en 2026-06-17T14:30:00+08:00 Sun PhuQuoc Airways announces ambitious international expansion, aims for 200 aircraft by 2035 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/993c3e3a03369bfbfa28158da2eb1ae96599a7202752f8a344fed1a69f127221 Most of Sun PhuQuoc Airways’ routes will originate from its home base in Phu Quoc, though it will also operate from Vietnam’s other airports. Most of Sun PhuQuoc Airways’ routes will originate from its home base in Phu Quoc, though it will also operate from Vietnam’s other airports. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/next-advantage-asean-firms-lies-ability-operate-amid-uncertainty-bt-regional-survey The Business Times en 2026-06-17T14:23:07+08:00 Next advantage for Asean firms lies in ability to operate amid uncertainty: BT regional survey https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/35735b0eb085c476491fcf6ea5b5c33f4c011b7670bdd106c47873e96fb44c09 The competitive moat of business leaders in South-east Asia lie not solely in capital or technology, but in their ability to operate where others find opaque, said BT editor Chen Huifen. BT editor Chen Huifen says the businesses that will win are the ones who understand that instability is the new operating condition. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/arts-design/rare-brutalist-singapore-house-opens-public-changing-hands The Business Times en 2026-06-17T14:10:00+08:00 Rare brutalist Singapore house opens to the public before changing hands https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/066c05d2fb3e0819d98e672f1574a4be245c99ab661973e9c1ca752f10adb46e The Waterwall House, with water cascading down a three-storey wall, and several stairs and split levels. The exterior (left) and interior (right) views of Waterwall House, featuring glass interfaces, open voids, split levels and raw concrete walls. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/has-trump-achieved-his-goals-war-iran The Business Times en 2026-06-17T14:02:49+08:00 Has Trump achieved his goals in the war with Iran? https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/91b0813ccba2791ac316583abf1accfaa81b62411aa920b800eec42620e50a95 Teheran has consistently said that it has no intention of building a bomb and its programme is for peaceful purposes Teheran has consistently said that it has no intention of building a bomb and its programme is for peaceful purposes. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/ecb-officials-say-peace-iran-isnt-enough-fix-energy-shock The Business Times en 2026-06-17T13:27:17+08:00 ECB officials say peace in Iran isn’t enough to fix energy shock https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/075bc4e63fa4cd0a4d2935fc3e10f287871226f3c361adfaa4f0f7fcd0050aab “If this news is confirmed by developments in the coming days and the signature of a memorandum of understanding, it’s good news,” Christine Lagarde says. “If this news is confirmed by developments in the coming days and the signature of a memorandum of understanding, it’s good news,” Christine Lagarde says. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/health-wellness/singapore-workers-experiencing-rising-anxiety-signs-fallout-pressure-use-ai The Business Times en 2026-06-17T13:16:30+08:00 Singapore workers experiencing rising anxiety; signs of fallout from pressure to use AI https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1980b77623d518da30d14d05cea7816f8f957e3dde361f2fe1e5e23b1298c86a Those whose employers actively discourage the use of Artificial Intelligence at work have the lowest mental health score. Those whose employers actively discourage the use of AI at work have the lowest mental health score. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/g7-leaders-tackle-reliance-china-critical-minerals The Business Times en 2026-06-17T12:48:02+08:00 G7 leaders tackle reliance on China for critical minerals https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f1f4688b666161dd59e0a4c7defc879f01ba8941f7d5d7b2ba281dd3ebb6f72e G7 leaders will also discuss AI over lunch on Wednesday, including the liability of bots and agents, and how AI presents what is true and false. G7 leaders will also discuss how to rebalance global trade and address “predatory competition”, mainly by China. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/putin-host-asean-leaders-first-summit-ukraine-invasion The Business Times en 2026-06-17T12:29:12+08:00 Putin to host Asean leaders in first summit since Ukraine invasion https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/60030fdebae8dce513a2b25c27cce68fb1cd5e15a94c148fd24dc983775e91ce Russia's President Vladimir Putin will have “a marathon” of bilateral talks with Asean leaders, according to Kremlin. Russia's President Vladimir Putin will have “a marathon” of bilateral talks with Asean leaders, according to Kremlin. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/china-vows-improve-anti-sanctions-measures-financial-law The Business Times en 2026-06-17T12:12:37+08:00 China vows to improve anti-sanctions measures in financial law https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f2ce031203a59a2f00d5cc33268d9776075b23eace4cd3be4042792961d1d798 Pan Gongsheng signalled a potential shift in its interest rate framework with a focus on the overnight policy rate, a move that would bring it more in line with global peers. Pan Gongsheng signalled a potential shift in its interest rate framework with a focus on the overnight policy rate, a move that would bring it more in line with global peers. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/vietnam-maintains-2026-gdp-target-despite-trade-deficit-inflation-pressure The Business Times en 2026-06-17T12:10:12+08:00 Vietnam maintains 2026 GDP target despite trade deficit, inflation pressure https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/dbbd1014f0875a0dd01c8d875aadd5d2636b1f5ef65d009dd311a8682b6497ae Vietnam's annual inflation rate came in at 5.6% in May, higher than the government’s full-year target of 4.5%. Vietnam's annual inflation rate came in at 5.6% in May, higher than the government’s full-year target of 4.5%. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/economists-raise-inflation-projections-lower-growth-forecasts-first-mas-survey-iran-war The Business Times en 2026-06-17T12:00:00+08:00 Economists raise inflation projections, lower growth forecasts in first MAS survey since Iran war https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1b616b51c8c6e64a89bc260170e0b834a040d0b3b42f5a10b9f4c0cc1a5509db MAS' latest survey shows economists' full-year median forecasts at 2.3% for headline inflation and 2% for core inflation, both up from 1.5% in the March poll. MAS' latest survey shows economists' full-year median forecasts at 2.3% for headline inflation and 2% for core inflation, both up from 1.5% in the March poll. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/chinas-central-bank-hints-shift-toward-overnight-policy-rate-match-global-peers The Business Times en 2026-06-17T11:56:32+08:00 China’s central bank hints at shift toward overnight policy rate to match global peers https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a596a7f09d6c3aab52bcbbfbcae81f448e368ac023dccc08576b705a158dbac2 Pan Gongsheng, governor of the People's Bank of China (PBOC), speaks at the Lujiazui Forum in Shanghai, China, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. The PBOC signaled a potential shift in its interest rate framework with a focus on the overnight policy rate, a move that would bring it more in line with global peers. Photographer: Qilai Shen/Bloomberg Governor Pan Gongsheng said that the PBOC will improve its adjustment of short-term interest rates and expand its suite of overnight reverse repurchase operations at an appropriate time. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/trump-criticises-israels-tactics-lebanon-says-it-killing-civilians The Business Times en 2026-06-17T11:42:57+08:00 Trump criticises Israel’s tactics in Lebanon, says it is killing civilians https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b428a8fccd2146fbace468a0857d92f15b1cec70968e0d8659eded9a720076b0 Trump says that Israel has been fighting Hizbollah, the Iran-aligned Lebanese militia, for “too long”. Trump says that Israel has been fighting Hizbollah, the Iran-aligned Lebanese militia, for “too long”. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/japans-trade-balance-swings-deficit-yen-inflates-imports The Business Times en 2026-06-17T11:07:15+08:00 Japan’s trade balance swings to deficit as yen inflates imports https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/55ad759dcac154b12573bbad394f0588f5303e8dc6f83e42efa077f83f890145 The deficit suggests trade may weigh on growth in the second quarter, when economists largely expect a slowdown due to the impact of the war in Iran. The deficit suggests trade may weigh on growth in the second quarter, when economists largely expect a slowdown due to the impact of the war in Iran. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/manulife-pulls-loan-product-rich-hong-kong-clients-after-scrutiny The Business Times en 2026-06-17T10:56:21+08:00 Manulife pulls loan product for rich Hong Kong clients after scrutiny https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/178d93640f96049990544ad5cf25aad4dbd2e7a540fbd670b8f1f2fb9ba6fff5 The suspension at Manulife comes amid a broader, coordinated crackdown on cross-border wealth channels. The suspension at Manulife comes amid a broader, coordinated crackdown on cross-border wealth channels. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/gcash-parent-mynt-moves-closer-philippine-ipo-board-approval The Business Times en 2026-06-17T10:35:28+08:00 GCash parent Mynt moves closer to Philippine IPO with board approval https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/fce488ba9e315138365c7a5c6c631f90685168717446861eda75d852db037b2b Mynt, the owner of GCash, the Philippines's largest e-wallet officially announced its IPO intentions on Wednesday. Mynt's IPO has been mooted since late-2023, and a successful listing could provide some positivity for the Philippine Stock Exchange. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/six-companies-launch-hong-kong-offerings-worth-hk19-8-billion The Business Times en 2026-06-17T10:33:49+08:00 Six companies launch Hong Kong offerings worth up to HK$19.8 billion https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6bdf7ebc6bc9b28242e927d252282d2e7c1405718cc3624939a2335d7b6e06dd Hong Kong IPOs and second listings have raised US$21.5 billion so far in 2026. Hong Kong IPOs and second listings have raised US$21.5 billion so far in 2026. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/asian-stocks-edge-lower-fed-decision-focus The Business Times en 2026-06-17T10:17:47+08:00 Asian stocks edge lower with Fed decision in focus https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/cfb40ef866c90a3769775b0eef3b7424fbc63371d8c9a6d889660f5d84bd7b74 Options traders are increasingly divided over the Fed’s near-term rate path, with conflicting bets that span from cuts to various degrees of hikes over the coming months. The bigger focus for investors is what the policy outlook looks like under Warsh. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/gold-edges-rate-hike-fears-ease-fed-rate-decision-focus The Business Times en 2026-06-17T09:47:03+08:00 Gold edges up as rate-hike fears ease; Fed rate decision in focus https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5dbfa38bc1cd7ca86983009a086be57de7d50e933a69bc4f60161bd1e227242e A record 45% of the reserve managers surveyed by the World Gold Council expect to increase their own institutions’ gold holdings over the next 12 months. A record 45% of the reserve managers surveyed by the World Gold Council expect to increase their own institutions’ gold holdings over the next 12 months. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/goldman-sachs-shatters-dealmaking-records-us1-trillion-first-half-m-volume The Business Times en 2026-06-17T09:43:05+08:00 Goldman Sachs shatters dealmaking records with US$1 trillion in first-half M&A volume https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1a26b4f7f4ea81d7772bc54027ff5f9fed9318d2453e69c0e52f559aee29624a Goldman Sachs has retained its top ranking for global M&A advisor in 2026. Goldman Sachs has retained its top ranking for global M&A advisor in 2026. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/us-holds-blacklisting-chinas-deepseek-more-100-firms-deemed-security-risks-sources The Business Times en 2026-06-17T09:26:59+08:00 US holds off blacklisting China’s DeepSeek, more than 100 firms deemed security risks: sources https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4094f1ab71122a93b488bfa7e34c35cdf99392c449a5e4db207a66e7ca43a061 DeepSeek was approved by an interagency committee in 2025 for addition to the Commerce Department’s Entity List. DeepSeek was approved by an interagency committee in 2025 for addition to the Commerce Department’s Entity List. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/cse-global-independent-director-quits-after-clashes-chairman-eugene-lai-over-board-refresh The Business Times en 2026-06-17T09:13:58+08:00 CSE Global independent director quits after clashes with chairman Eugene Lai over board refresh https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ab62fcaa6e19930a9f9a4105b87f0d6c2742344941aeff613e21e486fa72043e CSE Global chairman Eugene Lai Eugene Lai (left) says that he was sharing a view with Tan Chian Khong that the board needed a refresh and that it was not an explicit direction to resign. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/why-restoring-normal-traffic-through-hormuz-wont-be-easy The Business Times en 2026-06-17T09:09:18+08:00 Why restoring normal traffic through Hormuz won’t be easy https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8e445297d4d6b473b6f92cb0a160ddd340295f1cba1b61a20dd45ee9f328304f Vessels at the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from Musandam, Oman, June 15, 2026. REUTERS/Stringer Iran says ships a fee-free period will end after 60 days. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/hsbc-google-ai-partnership-set-add-over-us100-million-gains The Business Times en 2026-06-17T08:45:10+08:00 HSBC, Google AI partnership set to add over US$100 million gains https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/21adca166a1df536d0de76fbc23c032a9a1f078ba8d6d37d9c751062325f8f60 HSBC says partnership with Google Cloud should enable 200 more tasks using AI over the next two years. HSBC is among the first global banks to lay out how it plans to deploy AI to generate revenue and boost efficiency. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/stocks-watch-boustead-singapore-cse-global-elite-uk-reit The Business Times en 2026-06-17T08:34:50+08:00 Stocks to watch: Boustead Singapore, CSE Global, Elite UK Reit https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/40c66f5509fad17bc0dd164a91cc2d68dff9a16ca779b4dbf2e206a7928402d5 Boustead Singapore’s unit has renewed a contract for its geographic information systems platform with the Australian federal government for around S$60 million. Boustead Singapore’s unit has renewed a contract for its geographic information systems platform with the Australian federal government for around S$60 million. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/singapores-key-exports-growth-hits-22-year-high-38-4-may-robust-ai-demand The Business Times en 2026-06-17T08:30:00+08:00 Singapore’s key exports growth hits 22-year high of 38.4% in May on robust AI demand https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/fbb4545abe34f01427c8c804f16d9d4f8c17377dd61b8d511490e4088ae43598 Singapore's total merchandise trade grew 39.7 per cent in May, extending the 33.0 per cent rise in April, with both exports and imports increasing. Singapore's total merchandise trade grows 39.7% in May, with both exports and imports increasing. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/gic-nears-deal-offload-us2-billion-private-credit-stakes The Business Times en 2026-06-17T08:06:35+08:00 GIC nears deal to offload US$2 billion in private credit stakes https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ba94a96196e9e07fe7a31dd2916e75644c95634659c43fd2a257ad65c6d254ff The Singaporean fund frequently buys and sells secondhand stakes. The Singaporean fund frequently buys and sells secondhand stakes. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/dubai-property-frenzy-cools-sellers-hold-line-prices The Business Times en 2026-06-17T08:00:00+08:00 Dubai property frenzy cools but sellers hold the line on prices https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5ed6cb19b90f1e57f81b87b8a97073db85bb242c3f496af4a4796733f1d44b69 In the five years leading up to the Middle East conflict, Dubai had become one of the hottest real estate markets globally. In the five years leading up to the Middle East conflict, Dubai had become one of the hottest real estate markets globally. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/consumer-healthcare/singapore-based-shein-and-paris-department-store-end-controversial-partnership The Business Times en 2026-06-17T07:48:10+08:00 Singapore-based Shein and Paris department store end controversial partnership https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/48c1945e093acb8e8bd0fa2d1681169d9023d57f0589374dc5f686e61b384ba7 Shein says that it respects BHV’s decision but added that it was “regrettable” customers had to navigate ongoing construction works in the department store. Shein says that it respects BHV's decision. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/humanity-isnt-ready-coming-intelligence-explosion The Business Times en 2026-06-17T07:30:00+08:00 Humanity isn’t ready for the coming intelligence explosion https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/59b9831394297176dbb8fb84c9238d7b3de6d64bcf86dc81e1e61ecc0193439a Civilisations generally build powerful technologies faster than they develop the capacity to govern them wisely. The dawn of the nuclear age was humanity's first encounter with this dynamic. The age of advanced AI would be the second. Civilisations generally build powerful technologies faster than they develop the capacity to govern them wisely, says the writer. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/missing-human-touch-singapores-customer-service-costs-more-we-think The Business Times en 2026-06-17T07:15:00+08:00 The missing human touch in Singapore’s customer service costs more than we think https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/731343b78bac0582602f6e59528b137f952ef5d9a6d30f07ba2100e2d58d7a64 Siloed systems, fragmented processes and data scattered across disparate platforms can impede the work of customer service agents. Siloed systems, fragmented processes and data scattered across disparate platforms can impede the work of customer service agents. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/china-has-powerful-new-oil-price-weapon The Business Times en 2026-06-17T07:00:00+08:00 China has a powerful new oil price weapon https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b149d1d8ed55099dd605ba08100ff5df5b6790648254dae8a89f0e6ff166e825 An oil refinery in China, which at the end of 2025 had the largest strategic petroleum reserve with 1.4 billion barrels held back. An oil refinery in China, which at the end of 2025 had the largest strategic petroleum reserve with 1.4 billion barrels held back. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/byd-boast-shareholders-didnt The Business Times en 2026-06-17T07:00:00+08:00 The BYD boast that shareholders didn’t like https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d39bedac2a8c0f412ac594356cf9d53ff105d73163256d48a73679033f3bc00e BYD is the leading EV nameplate in Britain and Indonesia, and has also topped Singapore’s charts for two years running. BYD is the leading EV nameplate in Britain and Indonesia, and has also topped Singapore’s charts for two years running. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/room-more-offices-homes-and-green-spaces-make-orchard-road-more-vibrant The Business Times en 2026-06-17T07:00:00+08:00 Room for more offices, homes and green spaces to make Orchard Road more vibrant https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a09113b814d367f8ff108d428f098d2baafb1158aa03019f2bc37efa8ea08b44 Allowing some older malls to evolve organically could help Orchard Road retain diversity, says one observer. Allowing some older malls to evolve organically could help Orchard Road retain diversity, says one observer. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/us-iran-prepare-deal-signing-financial-details-emerge The Business Times en 2026-06-17T06:34:58+08:00 US, Iran prepare for deal signing as financial details emerge https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/db6e86b80dff879bf25e3e72bf27394152dc86dff55728bdeac6b7b0ba4aebe4 Iranian officials have said that the MOU will lead to them getting access to tens of billions of US dollars of frozen funds held in places such as Qatar. Iranian officials have said that the MOU will lead to them getting access to tens of billions of US dollars of frozen funds held in places such as Qatar. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/oil-falls-under-us80-us-iran-deal-set-add-supply The Business Times en 2026-06-17T06:13:17+08:00 Oil falls under US$80 as US-Iran deal set to add supply https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/be0699ac548a8040a718ea6a95a697dcbf14d5ce0dc416e56c4500cc048f3839 Oil’s drop to the lowest since early March has erased the bulk of the gains seen during the conflict. Oil’s drop to the lowest since early March has erased the bulk of the gains seen during the conflict. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/nasdaq-and-sp-500-slip-while-dow-hits-record-close The Business Times en 2026-06-17T05:53:15+08:00 Nasdaq and S&P 500 slip while Dow hits record close https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/bb157e2e3b7c907144c0c9fad6e349af839f6976cc15c1f1fa2a28bcedcf7094 The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 328.64 points, or 0.64%, to 51,999.67. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 328.64 points, or 0.64%, to 51,999.67. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/european-shares-extend-rally-investors-await-details-us-iran-agreement The Business Times en 2026-06-17T05:36:50+08:00 European shares extend rally as investors await details of US-Iran agreement https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8d443c7f5a54adf2b8c9983fb492cbaf15b680db2dba74a3eb4f1aae3f0d5e97 The index has gained over 7% so far this year compared to the US benchmark S&P 500’s 10% advance. The index has gained over 7% so far this year compared to the US benchmark S&P 500’s 10% advance. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/us-stocks-dow-hits-record-high-oil-slides-spacex-soars The Business Times en 2026-06-16T22:56:31+08:00 US stocks: Dow hits record high as oil slides; SpaceX soars https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/96da6a3d194d3f332c18d5d1e00ed85c98fdeb9d59a763ed94e253af9d3e7a60 All three major US indices rose in early trading on Tuesday. All three major US indices rose in early trading on Tuesday. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/1mdb-theft-made-attila-hun-look-choirboy-judge-says The Business Times en 2026-06-16T22:37:05+08:00 1MDB theft made Attila the Hun look like ‘choirboy’, judge says https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c88f39d3c1b4dc5f656e51f07a0231fc72958558b386877b11622af1aedaa285 Najib Razak, who led Malaysia from 2009 to 2018, has already been in jail since 2022 after being convicted in a separate case linked to 1MDB. Najib Razak, who led Malaysia from 2009 to 2018, has already been in jail since 2022 after being convicted in a separate case linked to 1MDB. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/consumer-healthcare/yum-strikes-two-deals-sell-pizza-hut-us2-7-billion-tale-diverging-fortunes The Business Times en 2026-06-16T21:55:07+08:00 Yum strikes two deals to sell Pizza Hut for US$2.7 billion in tale of diverging fortunes https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f56e5c23c982545e7b776d31f9f1741fcc128157b5c22d75d0245daff75b6f4f LongRange Capital will acquire Pizza Hut ex-China for US$1.5 billion. LongRange Capital will acquire Pizza Hut ex-China for US$1.5 billion. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/mpact-prices-s200-million-green-bonds-2-53 The Business Times en 2026-06-16T21:47:34+08:00 MPACT prices S$200 million of green bonds at 2.53% https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/cd7b3bc4d987cc47dd140246c8e7289277801cb137d54789efc12c49db7a1198 Generic shots of Vivocity VivoCity is one of the properties in the Reit's portfolio. The proceeds raised from this issuance will be used to finance eligible green projects. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/binance-set-lose-eu-licence-bid-permission-offer-services-bloc-sources The Business Times en 2026-06-16T21:43:08+08:00 Binance set to lose EU licence bid, permission to offer services in the bloc: sources  https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/01d8b93a9cd21fc7cdedcb3e05aae20338dab962d41b2015ac984e079d61fd9b Without a licence, Binance would not qualify to continue operating in the EU from the start of July. Without a licence, Binance would not qualify to continue operating in the EU from the start of July. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/us-import-prices-increase-more-expected-may The Business Times en 2026-06-16T21:03:46+08:00 US import prices increase more than expected in May https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/57e743dfe695c1981dd6f9a29b2505522e33043aaf355c9bab27168290999aa9 In the 12 months through May, US import prices advanced 6.7 per cent. In the 12 months through May, US import prices advanced 6.7 per cent. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/oil-drops-nearly-3-3-month-low-markets-weigh-us-iran-peace-deal The Business Times en 2026-06-16T20:52:17+08:00 Oil drops nearly 3% to 3-month low as markets weigh US-Iran peace deal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4ebe6152ea050193eeb2597ee11c68197637996ace5fda059eca647c2354b818 Brent crude futures were down US$2.48, or about 3 per cent, at US$80.69 a barrel by 1205 GMT on Tuesday. Brent crude futures were down US$2.48, or about 3 per cent, at US$80.69 a barrel by 1205 GMT on Tuesday. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/china-signs-26-financial-institutions-digital-yuan-cross-border-payment-platform The Business Times en 2026-06-16T20:29:44+08:00 China signs up 26 financial institutions to digital yuan cross-border payment platform https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/18cde60ae5313b6f013d289b7f632727ba3325717a37827b5b33546686714df6 China’s central bank is making a push to increase the use of digital yuan at home and abroad, says several industry sources. China’s central bank is making a push to increase the use of digital yuan at home and abroad, says several industry sources. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/boustead-singapore-unit-renews-contract-australian-government-s60-million The Business Times en 2026-06-16T20:27:50+08:00 Boustead Singapore unit renews contract with Australian government for S$60 million https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/40c66f5509fad17bc0dd164a91cc2d68dff9a16ca779b4dbf2e206a7928402d5 The entrance of Boustead Singapore’s office. Boustead said that this is the largest enterprise agreement contract for the company’s geospatial division to date. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/trading-platform-robinhood-cut-10-workforce-restructuring The Business Times en 2026-06-16T20:24:31+08:00 Trading platform Robinhood to cut 10% of workforce in restructuring https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f75ce05db835768773fbbe0b952c38b6053d7435f4e34b48ae9125ce96f84626 Robinhood expects to incur restructuring charges of about US$20 million for employee severance and benefits costs. Robinhood expects to incur restructuring charges of about US$20 million for employee severance and benefits costs. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/spacex-vaults-past-amazons-market-value-options-listing-fuels-surge The Business Times en 2026-06-16T20:17:26+08:00 SpaceX vaults past Amazon’s market value as options listing fuels surge https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1e4618cafc9057bdd1c59220dbfba04be47c0c61cfdb707e5095f571261707dc The stock was last up 8.5 per cent at US$208.90, jumping more than 54 per cent above its US$135 IPO price. The stock is expected to enjoy additional demand in the coming weeks as it joins major indexes. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/eu-lawmakers-clear-us-trade-deal-avert-return-trade-conflict The Business Times en 2026-06-16T19:37:23+08:00 EU lawmakers clear US trade deal to avert return to trade conflict https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/9d673b0d8164fd956270ab54c01e67f461a612866ea396510bc3bd5330d11e55 Tuesday’s vote should avert US President Trump's July 4 tariff threat, but leaves many uncertainties Tuesday’s vote should avert US President Trump's July 4 tariff threat, but leaves many uncertainties https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/sgx-mulls-new-coking-coal-and-steel-contracts-executive-says The Business Times en 2026-06-16T19:29:04+08:00 SGX mulls new coking coal and steel contracts, executive says https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/299d198368cd0a49b46d4cdd372bb6c31f83d6cb0ed19dc91e13679ca6e3e565 SGX currently has derivatives contracts for steel reinforcing, typically used in construction. SGX currently has derivatives contracts for steel reinforcing, typically used in construction. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/mas-revises-takeover-and-merger-code-enhance-competition-and-disclosures The Business Times en 2026-06-16T19:28:50+08:00 MAS revises takeover and merger code to enhance competition and disclosures https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a4b5e636d89a695ce612afab0487b83cdeca3150884d42d5bc9619e65f0d26b8 The amendments "aim to protect the competitive process of takeover and merger transactions", says SIC. The amendments "aim to protect the competitive process of takeover and merger transactions", says SIC. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/malaysian-tycoon-vincent-tans-sell-downs-point-pruning-rather-exit-plan The Business Times en 2026-06-16T19:26:49+08:00 Malaysian tycoon Vincent Tan’s sell-downs point to pruning rather than an exit plan https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/cc6e4ceb05afadaf67183d3eb16297de5f10d7f7b1bdccec66717fe7aef03929 Malaysian billionaire Vincent Tan, the founder of Berjaya Group, has reduced his holdings in multiple group companies, triggering market curiosity over the sudden wave of equity restructuring. Vincent Tan, founder of Berjaya Group, has reduced his holdings in multiple companies within the group. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/singapore-shares-rise-tuesday-sti-0-8 The Business Times en 2026-06-16T18:53:55+08:00 Singapore shares rise on Tuesday; STI up 0.8% https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/be1f056e67c73e5fe94c322140529e0bebaf3e6b61da67d656adfe8314786144 Across the broader market, losers beat gainers 342 to 256, after 1.2 billion securities worth S$2 billion change hands. Across the broader market, losers beat gainers 342 to 256, with 1.2 billion securities worth S$2 billion having changed hands. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/ai-splitting-job-market-two-pwc-study The Business Times en 2026-06-16T18:42:32+08:00 AI splitting job market in two: PwC study https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6ee6e033f497ad33c69b880a98ea156d2ecd0901e68e234cde23660f719d7569 Jobs that can use AI to amplify human skills such as creativity and judgment are rising the fastest. Jobs that can use AI to amplify human skills such as creativity and judgment are rising the fastest. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/daily-debrief-what-happened-today-jun-161 The Business Times en 2026-06-16T18:30:00+08:00 Daily Debrief: What Happened Today (Jun 16) https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/25babd63f38b54b9dc84daaad1cf56afca1953134cf7def3b91162a9ea342919 Captive coal, which refers to off-grid coal plants operated by industrial companies to power their operations, has generally fallen outside financing restrictions. Captive coal, which refers to off-grid coal plants operated by industrial companies to power their operations, has generally fallen outside financing restrictions. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/australia-declares-el-nino-be-strongest-decades The Business Times en 2026-06-16T18:26:12+08:00 Australia declares El Nino to be strongest in decades https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/fcbd656b103f3b1f308adefa8e46f50fc6de210ed679ea4b6b823945fb6f9035 The last El Nino experienced in Australia, which was from 2023 to 2024, caused the driest three-month period on record. The last El Nino experienced in Australia, which was from 2023 to 2024, caused the driest three-month period on record. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/iran-deal-could-expand-market-gains-consumer-shares-small-caps-seen-benefitting The Business Times en 2026-06-16T17:01:53+08:00 Iran deal could expand market gains, with consumer shares, small caps seen benefitting https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/25a5fc96c59d26410ae771691bb92cdb06233b135975d8bea17c8fedeeb3715d Investors may be looking for relative bargains in a market that has been dominated by tech. Investors may be looking for relative bargains in a market that has been dominated by tech. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/startups-tech/technology/singtel-kkr-owned-stt-gdc-opens-its-first-south-korean-data-centre-tap-ai-boom The Business Times en 2026-06-16T17:01:28+08:00 Singtel, KKR-owned STT GDC opens its first South Korean data centre to tap AI boom https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2bf120de5b121c19cdafb28432d1b608f6348e64f8109b33a51a1226dcedbf39 The new data centre is located in Gasan-dong, Geumcheon-gu, Seoul and has about 40,000 square metres of gross floor area. The new data centre is in Seoul's Geumcheon district and has about 40,000 sq m of gross floor area. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/artist-anish-kapoor-presents-works-old-and-new-london-gallery-return The Business Times en 2026-06-16T17:00:00+08:00 Artist Anish Kapoor presents works old and new in London gallery return https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b9d0962a679582b2fd215bb6ea9f21be4b7d8023af8b59a45ffa5dc691a5929f The Hayward Gallery was the first in the UK to hold a major survey of British artist Anish Kapoor’s works in 1998. Kapoor with his expansive vivid red pigment piece called Ha Makom. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/back-square-one-us-iran-deal-resolves-little-and-could-make-things-worse The Business Times en 2026-06-16T17:00:00+08:00 Back to square one? A US-Iran ‘deal’ that resolves little and could make things worse https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4854f2e5330f4271c5786f58fb866cdfe41c17f99816d811d80b467df21b988d In practical terms, all that the US and Iran have agreed to now is to open the Strait of Hormuz, says the writer. In practical terms, all that the US and Iran have agreed to now is to open the Strait of Hormuz, says the writer. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/germany-rejects-unicredits-39-billion-euro-commerzbank-offer The Business Times en 2026-06-16T16:45:19+08:00 Germany rejects UniCredit’s 39 billion euro Commerzbank offer https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/222ccb55635324a6436675ed46a74494450535741936cce26a77a62b61539dea Commerzbank "plays an important role in financing the German economy", Germany’s Finance Agency says. Commerzbank "plays an important role in financing the German economy", Germany’s Finance Agency says. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/china-mine-disaster-indonesia-policy-changes-upend-global-coal-market The Business Times en 2026-06-16T16:38:15+08:00 China mine disaster, Indonesia policy changes upend global coal market https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/03197f4a6269256537713c70d14c0fc09f2e40273d990b8da23ae99c67a463b4 For the first four months of 2026, Indonesia’s thermal coal production was down 7% from a year earlier. Indonesia’s plan to bring all coal exports under the control of a new state-run company called Danantara has compounded the uncertainty. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/worlds-500-richest-add-record-us336-billion-wealth-one-day The Business Times en 2026-06-16T16:38:01+08:00 World’s 500 richest add record US$336 billion to wealth in one day https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e9a051fe9b33e1fa83b407002598b0175394cf844039f0d059086c9dbe28afa1 Elon Musk extended his lead over the group with his net worth rising more than 10 per cent to US$1.27 trillion. Elon Musk extended his lead over the group with his net worth rising more than 10 per cent to US$1.27 trillion. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/new-fed-chief-warsh-faces-bumpy-road-he-leads-tough-first-rate-meeting The Business Times en 2026-06-16T16:21:31+08:00 New Fed chief Warsh faces bumpy road as he leads tough first rate meeting https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/44037e7c2c39117638d94058b8b2857956535be2ab576d874fd1261b4197d05a Fed chief Kevin Warsh is expected to keep interest rates unchanged at the end of this week's policy-meeting on Wednesday. Fed chief Kevin Warsh, who took over from Jerome Powell last month, is in a tricky position. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/nearly-s100-million-be-pumped-municipal-industrial-water-solutions-gan-kim-yong The Business Times en 2026-06-16T16:10:19+08:00 Nearly S$100 million to be pumped into municipal, industrial water solutions: Gan Kim Yong https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a97ddd8c0690bf964fb3bee4330da0e534a5e81dd6c0541ba2f32c409eaac19e Tengah Service Reservoir will supply water to Tengah Town. Tengah Service Reservoir will supply water to Tengah Town. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/european-shares-inch-investors-assess-us-iran-agreement The Business Times en 2026-06-16T16:04:42+08:00 European shares inch up as investors assess US-Iran agreement https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d82e0c3caf8baa2c817b9560d50165e38c160a12ed7118439558d7b3e89dc50d The Stoxx 600 index edged 0.3 per cent higher to 636.01 points by 0717 GMT in early trading on Tuesday. The Stoxx 600 index edged 0.3 per cent higher to 636.01 points by 0717 GMT in early trading on Tuesday. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/chinas-deepseek-closes-over-50-billion-yuan-funding-unusual-deal-structure-information The Business Times en 2026-06-16T16:00:47+08:00 China’s DeepSeek closes over 50 billion yuan funding with unusual deal structure: The Information https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/975cc4d0a6b8172bb3c487dfecb448e688d9c322eb6a79506e833471c3349ee6 DeepSeek became China’s national AI champion and garnered global fame early last year with its V3 and R1 models. DeepSeek became China’s national AI champion and garnered global fame early last year with its V3 and R1 models. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/secrets-football-turf-master The Business Times en 2026-06-16T16:00:00+08:00 The secrets of a football turf master https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f3c3387721e422f2f2d029d75d4314257645fb317aa749b356a7da00c3e56812 Turf scientist John Sorochan heads the Fifa Pitch Research Project. He has led the years-long, multimillion-dollar effort to develop perfect fields for the World Cup, Prof Sorochan is an expert in turf grass science and management at the University of Tennessee. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/india-curbs-telegram-use-over-medical-exam-fraud-concerns The Business Times en 2026-06-16T15:54:50+08:00 India curbs Telegram use over medical exam fraud concerns https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6974d1fbdff46babc809613ff895e57ec4971f7f80ad52a5cae01b45afc9f243 Telegram has grown rapidly in India and the country is its biggest market by downloads. Telegram has grown rapidly in India and the country is its biggest market by downloads. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/evergrande-liquidators-seek-quash-regulators-pwc-hong-kong-deal The Business Times en 2026-06-16T15:31:32+08:00 Evergrande liquidators seek to quash regulator’s PwC Hong Kong deal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5ef37d5f7cb508c56dc0ed26016514c192cc5fd32b790c09efb4aac2d76d53a4 Evergrande's debt burden is larger than previously estimated, reaching HK$350 billion, liquidators said. Evergrande's debt burden is larger than previously estimated, reaching HK$350 billion, liquidators said. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/wealth/wealth-investing/why-singapores-manufacturing-story-holds The Business Times en 2026-06-16T15:31:15+08:00 Why Singapore’s manufacturing story holds https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/43c06234dfd4d41d4ae00d6473fc50793a66ff6eee76807922174443ed7dc491 Electronics accounts for roughly one-third of Singapore’s manufacturing output, and its sustained strength underscores the continued support from artificial intelligence-driven semiconductor demand. Electronics accounts for roughly one-third of Singapore’s manufacturing output, and its sustained strength underscores the continued support from artificial intelligence-driven semiconductor demand. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/spacex-investors-us-retail-brokers-got-least-one-ipo-share The Business Times en 2026-06-16T15:23:02+08:00 SpaceX investors at US retail brokers got at least one IPO share https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7116a39621cd5efa277abad2f72e8fb3f803faeb5d526ef0b8c62165db440e5f SpaceX ended up allocating about 20% of its initial public offering to retail investors globally. SpaceX ended up allocating about 20% of its initial public offering to retail investors globally. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/us-homebuilder-sentiment-falls-driven-large-drop-south The Business Times en 2026-06-16T15:13:52+08:00 US homebuilder sentiment falls, driven by large drop in South https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/90a4e05549dce312be10b9842c440b8d7baa35732d8831934b8fbed2ebd01cd0 Builder sentiment will remain soft until barriers are eased and conditions improve for home building, says NAHB chairman Bill Owens. Builder sentiment will remain soft until barriers are eased and conditions improve for home building, says NAHB chairman Bill Owens. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/south-korean-shares-log-two-week-closing-high-us-iran-deal The Business Times en 2026-06-16T15:12:11+08:00 South Korean shares log two-week closing high on US-Iran deal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/357771b5a92d576ea539a21f0eed927f28a8e3dd72e3508eb4be73af745394fe The benchmark Kospi closed 180.62 points, or 2.11 per cent, higher at 8,726.60 on Tuesday, its highest closing level since June 2. The benchmark Kospi closed 180.62 points, or 2.11 per cent, higher at 8,726.60 on Tuesday, its highest closing level since June 2. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/can-st-engineering-aspire-challenge-dbs-be-king-local-bourse The Business Times en 2026-06-16T15:00:00+08:00 Can ST Engineering aspire to challenge DBS to be king of the local bourse? https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/186f618ea074b6830f3a8278caadf6ac30d209727811041e0c3990068ae9ae9b Should ST Engineering execute well in capturing burgeoning defence opportunities, expect investors to view the company’s stock highly favourably. Should ST Engineering execute well in capturing burgeoning defence opportunities, expect investors to view the company’s stock highly favourably. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/wealth/wealth-investing/when-will-stock-market-crash The Business Times en 2026-06-16T14:54:31+08:00 When will the stock market crash? https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c62a6ed8920e4eebb8d3bf8a88db3ac3da47a7ae0b2031888e583018793dd50f Over the past five years, the S&P 500 has risen by more than 70 per cent. Over the past five years, the S&P 500 has risen by more than 70%. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/fujitsu-chairman-quits-following-woman-related-improper-behaviour The Business Times en 2026-06-16T14:48:08+08:00 Fujitsu chairman quits following ‘woman-related’ improper behaviour https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/befa36587b6fad6ec22f612cf92beab628e7ba4bb14fcba148bb8f6f51d30054 Hidenori Furuta became Fujitsu‘s chairman in 2024 after serving in various capacities. Hidenori Furuta became Fujitsu‘s chairman in 2024 after serving in various capacities. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/more-central-banks-increasing-domestic-gold-storage-diversifying-overseas-vaulting-survey The Business Times en 2026-06-16T14:35:39+08:00 More central banks increasing domestic gold storage, diversifying overseas vaulting: survey https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c276d07f5064c8e2b8156b78a6b829019faab15a4855301e45a6e51eb9871582 As some central banks continued relocating their gold, 9%of respondents said they had increased domestic storage in the past 12 months. In the last 12 months, 9% of the respondents said they had increased domestic gold storage, up from 5% in the year before. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/wealth/wealth-investing/what-us-can-do-control-rising-yields The Business Times en 2026-06-16T14:33:27+08:00 What the US can do to control rising yields https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/66ed75461037a5ce2cf9af8fd72e011a98ecc44c5e056da2e1cdc9101c166475 By scaling up the buyback program, a partnership between the Fed and US Treasury partnership could effectively replicate Operation Twist, used to lower long-term borrowing costs in 1961 and briefly in 2011. By scaling up the Treasury’s buyback programme, a Fed-Treasury partnership could effectively replicate Operation Twist, used to lower long-term borrowing costs in 1961 and briefly in 2011. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/kpmg-scandal-deepens-big-four-accounting-firms-woes-australia The Business Times en 2026-06-16T14:15:46+08:00 KPMG scandal deepens Big Four accounting firms’ woes in Australia https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/93e6213707e0b5ea9c3db2b1ca3875934ba3d7635a3e4a1120038b77e9ad2971 KPMG is embroiled in a scandal after allegedly sharing confidential company information with prospective private-sector clients to bid for auditing work. KPMG is embroiled in a scandal after allegedly sharing confidential company information with prospective private-sector clients to bid for auditing work. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/scenario-ai-driven-jobless-economic-growth-need-not-scare-investors-and-society The Business Times en 2026-06-16T14:15:04+08:00 Scenario of AI-driven jobless economic growth need not scare investors and society https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b4a3d8a8febafd6d402bd85ef27758686e2ff9504156df15b7c4ca0bbad9cf65 Workers displaced by AI could create new businesses, pursue artistic interests, set up social enterprises or launch community initiatives. Workers displaced by AI could create new businesses, pursue artistic interests, set up social enterprises or launch community initiatives. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/xi-jinping-endorses-leadership-myanmars-president-both-leaders-meet-beijing The Business Times en 2026-06-16T14:14:08+08:00 Xi Jinping endorses leadership of Myanmar’s president as both leaders meet in Beijing https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1905ded6d52a3ecdc215a9da9f66c1bb1139867f42112620c26606c32363dc26 Chinese President Xi Jinping (left) and Myanmar's President Min Aung Hlaing attend a welcoming ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Jun 16. Chinese President Xi Jinping (left) and Myanmar's President Min Aung Hlaing attend a welcoming ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Jun 16. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/australias-central-bank-warns-rate-hikes-might-not-be-over-after-holding-fire The Business Times en 2026-06-16T13:46:30+08:00 Australia’s central bank warns rate hikes might not be over after holding fire https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b2272f0b1166b729c6bfa0ebba8f86e94214d2344856c7d1a7ba5888db3ad10b The RBA has already raised rates by 75 basis points since February as it struggled to contain stubborn inflationary pressures in the face of surging energy costs. Annual inflation slowed to 4.2% in April but a measure of underlying inflation picked up to 3.4%, above the target band of 2% to 3%. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/strait-hormuz-transit-will-take-weeks-resume-mitsui-osk-ceo-tells-ft The Business Times en 2026-06-16T13:37:47+08:00 Strait of Hormuz transit will take ‘weeks’ to resume, Mitsui OSK CEO tells FT https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/20b400d63c2f3e57a107400225d7777ec15be60f1ec21899112df84a27dc291f Mitsui OSK’s Jotaro Tamura says: “What will have to come in place is not just a simple agreement between the relevant countries, but it has to be material and translated into the real situations in the Strait of Hormuz....” Mitsui OSK’s Jotaro Tamura says: “What will have to come in place is not just a simple agreement between the relevant countries, but it has to be material and translated into the real situations in the Strait of Hormuz....” https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/vietnam-stocks-see-biggest-foreign-inflows-nearly-six-years The Business Times en 2026-06-16T13:04:14+08:00 Vietnam stocks see biggest foreign inflows in nearly six years https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c4e9c1db7742ddf4e4f975b6676c790efe2648591a80cbe0030a3046ea6a3f1f Global investors’ purchases in Vietnam were part of their broader buying spree in several Asian emerging markets after the US and Iran agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Global investors’ purchases in Vietnam were part of their broader buying spree in several Asian emerging markets after the US and Iran agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/esg/singapore-banks-may-need-address-indirect-exposure-captive-coal-their-financing-policies The Business Times en 2026-06-16T13:00:00+08:00 Singapore banks may need to address indirect exposure to captive coal in their financing policies https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/03197f4a6269256537713c70d14c0fc09f2e40273d990b8da23ae99c67a463b4 Coal barges are pictured as they queue to be pulled along Mahakam river in Samarinda, East Kalimantan province, Indonesia, August 31, 2019. Captive coal, which refers to off-grid coal plants operated by industrial companies to power their operations, has generally fallen outside financing restrictions. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/japans-nikkei-hits-record-high-yen-steady-after-boj-hikes-rates-expected The Business Times en 2026-06-16T12:50:05+08:00 Japan’s Nikkei hits record high, yen steady after BOJ hikes rates as expected https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/fb0e009453521f5571196e829fa9b172fd98a84676e0aeb1644d51fbf88efd4e The BOJ’s decision came during the trading break for stocks and bonds. The BOJ’s decision came during the trading break for stocks and bonds. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/chinas-property-stocks-tumble-back-pre-2024-stimulus-levels The Business Times en 2026-06-16T12:28:04+08:00 China’s property stocks tumble back to pre-2024 stimulus levels https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/60e6006465869e8f1b681a9821936ce12be9df77414a7292c106fb7afb62d304 The property gauge has fallen 13% this year while the Star 50 Index, which has chipmakers as its members, gained 30%. The property gauge has fallen 13% this year while the Star 50 Index, which has chipmakers as its members, gained 30%. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/esg/south-east-asias-green-power-investments-hit-new-high-us17-billion-2025-iea The Business Times en 2026-06-16T12:00:00+08:00 South-east Asia’s green power investments hit new high of US$17 billion in 2025: IEA https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a16f933427f50fa36fb58b276ad95cfbadfbdb3512ff5156bdd464e6dcd03f39 The International Energy Agency says US$27 billion is needed between 2025 and 2040 to deliver the region's proposed energy interconnection projects. The International Energy Agency says US$27 billion is needed between 2025 and 2040 to deliver the region's proposed energy interconnection projects. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/zouk-expands-mice-and-concerts-s6-million-revamp-focuses-differentiated-experiences The Business Times en 2026-06-16T12:00:00+08:00 Zouk expands into Mice and concerts with S$6 million revamp, focuses on differentiated experiences https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b8ce3d6bc7d396e972917f98afd6fc8155daf55b121e9e2c68b5851ff140d0f0 Andrew Li, chief executive of Zouk Group. CEO Andrew Li says to capture partygoers today, Zouk Group must offer differentiated experiences for distinct demographics, from Gen Zs to high spenders. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/fragile-iran-peace-follows-war-without-victors The Business Times en 2026-06-16T12:00:00+08:00 A fragile Iran peace follows a war without victors https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d08b0ba296d0c8004d134ab67322719fcf9767841f3cd60d3b2900be927acc8c A gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz – while talks begin over the issue of Iran’s nuclear programme – leaves plenty of room for disputes and misunderstandings. A gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz – while talks begin over Iran’s nuclear programme – leaves a lot of room for disputes and misunderstandings. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/bank-japan-raises-interest-rates-31-year-high-widely-expected-move The Business Times en 2026-06-16T11:39:56+08:00 Bank of Japan raises interest rates to 31-year high in widely expected move https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5a2a7afaeeeb25a222656790a4011e2b05ecae779272058ea3b3b0f13224a7e8 Bank of Japan deputy governor Shinichi Uchida says: "Price rises are broadening and there is a risk underlying inflation may deviate from our target.” Bank of Japan deputy governor Shinichi Uchida says: "Price rises are broadening and there is a risk underlying inflation may deviate from our target.” https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/oil-slide-brings-little-relief-hard-hit-philippine-consumers The Business Times en 2026-06-16T11:27:22+08:00 Oil slide brings little relief to hard-hit Philippine consumers https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f421d680cd5fd1c711f21e92ad79952fe47dde677ec9b14d458ba5ba6064bf5a The malaise is evident from the streets to the supermarkets in what was once the fastest-growing economy in South-east Asia. The nation's debt-to-gross domestic product ratio is already at the highest in over two decades and exceeds the internationally accepted 60 per cent threshold. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/asia-markets-temper-iran-deal-optimism-investors-assess-boj-rate-hike The Business Times en 2026-06-16T10:42:20+08:00 Asia markets temper Iran deal optimism; investors assess BOJ rate hike https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/989654c49900ff26e43205b351ede896bed8e7ff82ef9d3b8df7a269c73d7aff Investors continue to monitor developments in the Middle East, watching for signs whether shipping traffic through Hormuz is returning to normal and assessing if the peace accord will hold. Investors continue to monitor developments in the Middle East, watching for signs whether shipping traffic through Hormuz is returning to normal and assessing if the peace accord will hold. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/aia-prudential-create-senior-roles-hong-kong-wealthy-china-clients The Business Times en 2026-06-16T10:36:17+08:00 AIA, Prudential create senior roles in Hong Kong for wealthy China clients https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8e134c6c60397a9d38f970ed31b6117ef01340e9d4c0018fbbddda7c0388f591 Insurers have increasingly been looking to target Asia’s growing wealthy class, after years of focusing on mass-affluent customers Insurers have increasingly been looking to target Asia’s growing wealthy class, after years of focusing on mass-affluent customers. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/chinese-economy-stalls-spending-investment-drop-covid-era-levels1 The Business Times en 2026-06-16T10:35:24+08:00 Chinese economy stalls as spending, investment drop to Covid-era levels https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/cc696ff610ed67827af7a57aa54455324917563f06e4d0f4dbfd25f6088fd5cd Retail sales declined 0.6% last month from a year ago, posting a worse-than-forecast drop. Retail sales declined 0.6% last month from a year ago, posting a worse-than-forecast drop. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/jardine-matheson-targets-5-annual-dividend-growth-launches-us500-million-share-buyback The Business Times en 2026-06-16T10:14:46+08:00 Jardine Matheson targets 5% annual dividend growth, launches US$500 million share buyback https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b687b0acd454dbcc1b436bd64dad94df6e42da0dde21a37619e1644b2fd54e2e Mandarin Oriental, which was delisted from SGX on Jan 20, is among the portfolio companies of Jardine Matheson Holdings. Mandarin Oriental, which was delisted from SGX on Jan 20, is among the portfolio companies of Jardine Matheson Holdings. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/chinas-new-home-prices-fall-faster-pace-may-soft-demand The Business Times en 2026-06-16T10:10:05+08:00 China’s new home prices fall at faster pace in May on soft demand https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/dc2d9cad47574d91b66271fcdc31a1f1ff0b801504bf598bc3d8a9acd657476c China’s property downturn has weighed on the economy for almost five years, hampering efforts by officials to spur household spending and reduce reliance on exports. Home prices are expected to fall at a slower pace than forecast in a March survey this year and edge up in 2027. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/hong-kong-market-faces-pressure-hk255-billion-locked-shares-expire-july The Business Times en 2026-06-16T10:07:00+08:00 Hong Kong market faces pressure as HK$255 billion in locked shares expire in July https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/87196069eda0a5f2628d97e2def8bfb4e5409c92522a657479c4284704135741 Pressured by China’s struggling economy and doubts on Chinese firms’ heavy AI spending, the Hang Seng Index has fallen 3% this year. Pressured by China’s struggling economy and doubts on Chinese firms’ heavy AI spending, the Hang Seng Index has fallen 3% this year. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/reits-property/elite-uk-reit-buy-five-government-leased-uk-properties-ps31-9-million The Business Times en 2026-06-16T09:48:53+08:00 Elite UK Reit to buy five government-leased UK properties for £31.9 million https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/80d7de3366fbf66219eddef23ad3f531691d1ee10d6c09d87d8a22e7f0bd19e0 Joshua Liaw, CEO of the Reit's manager, said that the pairing of government-leased properties and living sector assets will enhance the resilience of distributions amid continued macroeconomic volatility. Joshua Liaw, CEO of the Reit's manager, says the pairing of government-leased properties and living sector assets will enhance the resilience of distributions. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/xiaohongshu-targets-end-june-confidential-hong-kong-ipo-sources The Business Times en 2026-06-16T09:44:09+08:00 Xiaohongshu targets end of June for confidential Hong Kong IPO: sources https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d85fcc4cefab8551f5c332e8ea48ded2ab150ac39839f8dc439728c048e3ad89 Xiaohongshu - known in the US as RedNote - emerged this year as a viable competitor to TikTok, which faces threats of a ban in the US. Xiaohongshu has grown into a lifestyle and social-commerce powerhouse in China’s online arena. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/trump-thanks-china-and-russia-partners-iran-diplomatic-help-sealing-ceasefire-deal The Business Times en 2026-06-16T09:03:58+08:00 Trump thanks China and Russia, partners of Iran, for diplomatic help in sealing ceasefire deal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8183508ff2c59f87bf9fc965805bc9bbac61e44b3b07cd7137e898be246350e6 US President Donald Trump praised two world leaders he has called his friends, Xi Jinping (left) of China and Vladimir Putin of Russia. US President Donald Trump praised two world leaders he has called his friends, Xi Jinping (left) of China and Vladimir Putin of Russia. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/trump-says-hormuz-will-reopen-jun-19-americas-g7-allies-arent-so-sure The Business Times en 2026-06-16T09:00:54+08:00 Trump says Hormuz will reopen by Jun 19. America’s G7 allies aren’t so sure https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f2fa1efb9cadc4145478d1e2c8d0100131084d52b895c749abe144728b0f0626 French President Emmanuel Macron (left) and UK PM Keir Starmer (right) have led an effort by US allies to produce a plan to help reopen the strait in the event of a final peace deal. French President Emmanuel Macron (left) and UK PM Keir Starmer (right) have led an effort by US allies to produce a plan to help reopen the strait in the event of a final peace deal. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/fintech-titans-gcash-and-maya-test-ipo-goals-philippine-market-thins The Business Times en 2026-06-16T08:51:44+08:00 Fintech titans GCash and Maya test IPO goals as Philippine market thins https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/fce488ba9e315138365c7a5c6c631f90685168717446861eda75d852db037b2b GCash, owned by mobile payment firm Mynt, is now the Philippines' largest platform for cashless transactions.  GCash, owned by mobile payment firm Mynt, is now the Philippines' largest platform for cashless transactions.  https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/stocks-watch-sia-jardine-matheson-holdings-elite-uk-reit The Business Times en 2026-06-16T08:20:11+08:00 Stocks to watch: SIA, Jardine Matheson Holdings, Elite UK Reit https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2d4408670c8710687a057ee17eee365ed0440e1878c1fff191892564560ccdb3 SIA Group passenger traffic grew 4.9 per cent year on year in May. SIA Group's passenger traffic grew 4.9% year on year in May. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/gold-holds-gain-trump-touts-reopening-hormuz-week The Business Times en 2026-06-16T08:07:21+08:00 Gold holds gain as Trump touts reopening of Hormuz this week https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/35ea4ac229f3a5389969b715ed71628c9123888830b53a589ef3db45b812f63b Gold is down about 18% since the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran in late February. Gold is down about 18% since the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran in late February. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/blackrock-sheds-another-200-jobs-adopting-regular-cycle-cuts The Business Times en 2026-06-16T07:47:56+08:00 BlackRock sheds another 200 jobs, adopting regular cycle of cuts https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/443e61a0e56590447fca74fa5d0f2bfdfbda31bd879c9b0c11bb135524d50173 While the cuts are measured, the regularity is helping redefine the culture at the investment firm that has grown with major acquisitions in recent years. While the cuts are measured, the regularity is helping redefine the culture at the investment firm that has grown with major acquisitions in recent years. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/spacex-surges-20-first-full-day-trading-add-us412-billion-value The Business Times en 2026-06-16T07:47:27+08:00 SpaceX surges 20% in first full day of trading to add US$412 billion in value https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/057d58afba5208f3c57bb9f64c9e7c91ec2b401f5eb512ab628198933ae3f180 At its current market capitalisation, SpaceX is less than US$135 billion away from overtaking Amazon.com, which boasts a nearly US$2.7 trillion value. At its current market capitalisation, SpaceX is less than US$135 billion away from overtaking Amazon.com, which boasts a nearly US$2.7 trillion value. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/worst-us-inflation-may-be-over-if-iran-peace-deal-sticks The Business Times en 2026-06-16T07:23:32+08:00 Worst of US inflation may be over if Iran peace deal sticks https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/549aec111769485e6c5f1417cddf0e1e8c225353a0190a7fdbe93e1f56e036c7 Petrol prices now average US$4.07 a gallon in the US, based on American Automobile Association data. Consumer spending has remained resilient despite the run-up in petrol prices and other costs due to the war. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/russia-test-europes-strategic-autonomy The Business Times en 2026-06-16T07:15:00+08:00 Russia is the test of Europe’s strategic autonomy https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5200702c2b9240583ef9bc83a42fafc62024faf844715886b07a953744e33531 Russian President Vladimir Putin refuses to acknowledge he can fail in Ukraine, but a debate has begun among the country's elite that is at once promising and worrying. Russian President Vladimir Putin refuses to acknowledge he can fail in Ukraine, but a debate has begun among the country's elite that is at once promising and worrying. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/dumb-choices-make-smart-glasses-so-appealing The Business Times en 2026-06-16T07:15:00+08:00 The dumb choices that make smart glasses so appealing https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/29d0ec4192c56ae2bac0d0895ac71fb832033f04d1583d86beeeec3b06cb90f1 Meta has removed facial-recognition code from an artificial intelligence companion app for its smart glasses. Meta has removed facial-recognition code from an artificial intelligence companion app for its smart glasses. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/startups-tech/technology/biggest-ai-skill-may-not-be-technical The Business Times en 2026-06-16T07:00:00+08:00 The biggest AI skill may not be technical https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/569d2ab482320fc3f473a55603a8ecc0c019983fe376920bcf2a825b2278411f From L-R: Claressa Monteiro, Dean Tong, head of group human resources at UOB, and Victor Chua, deputy chief executive officer of NUS-ISS, National University of Singapore From left: Claressa Monteiro, The Business Times' head of audio and host of the "Lens on Singapore" podcast, with Dean Tong, head of group human resources at UOB, and Victor Chua, deputy chief executive officer of NUS-ISS. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/eu-and-asean-50-time-bold-action The Business Times en 2026-06-16T07:00:00+08:00 EU and Asean at 50: time for bold action https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b49882f69f2915469f9fc949016a688ceb7faa7a80e4e836f45587541c85a301 Asean is now in a position to revisit the idea of a bloc-to-bloc agreement with the EU. Asean is now in a position to revisit the idea of a bloc-to-bloc agreement with the EU. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/tiger-beer-lines-new-products-singapore-operations-role-shifts-brewing-innovation The Business Times en 2026-06-16T07:00:00+08:00 Tiger Beer lines up new products as Singapore operations’ role shifts from brewing to innovation https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/9d5ff3ba528e9ba4d0bd2b78ccbef2d4af60c40a494b346a576affb83d46b639 SJ Heng, senior director of commerce at Heineken Asia-Pacific, says that a beer's brand is "not determined by the postal code of the brewery". SJ Heng, senior director of commerce at Heineken Asia-Pacific, says that a beer's brand is "not determined by the postal code of the brewery". https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/startups-tech/technology/singapore-startups-double-down-ai-usage-running-multiple-platforms-aspire-report The Business Times en 2026-06-16T07:00:00+08:00 Singapore startups double down on AI usage, running multiple platforms: Aspire report https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3146a0d7049df2188c22c748d6135d58f6759d69898478478be28696def456eb ChatGPT was the top AI platform among startups with 2,377 unique paying clients in FY2026 – a 31% increase from that in FY2024. ChatGPT was the top AI platform among startups with 2,377 unique paying clients in FY2026 – a 31% increase from the number in FY2024. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/trumps-first-term-china-tariffs-survive-supreme-court-challenge The Business Times en 2026-06-16T06:49:29+08:00 Trump’s first-term China tariffs survive Supreme Court challenge https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8db2d6031684e51cb50e247d10bfff6f1cdabd43e910957b8de762aaf4f185b4 The companies told the Supreme Court that Trump was trying to use Section 307 to circumvent Section 301’s more stringent procedural requirements. The Trump administration urged the Supreme Court to leave the Federal Circuit ruling in place, saying the president did exactly what Congress envisioned. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/us-iran-deal-promises-end-war-how-it-will-work-remains-unclear The Business Times en 2026-06-16T06:44:43+08:00 US-Iran deal promises end to war but how it will work remains unclear https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b41247db9cf95fdf69cb5e81901c036b8800d2d60fbe6f81a71929ab9c205700 Negotiators would address difficult issues like the future of Iran’s nuclear programme during the next phase of talks to be held during the 60-day window. Negotiators would address difficult issues like the future of Iran’s nuclear programme during the next phase of talks to be held during the 60-day window. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/oil-falls-markets-weigh-return-supply-us-iran-peace-deal The Business Times en 2026-06-16T06:20:36+08:00 Oil falls as markets weigh return of supply, US-Iran peace deal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8abd2cdfc7a3627a962ec00b929e7e85d77ab3de96ebfba1c4217e28320d4296 Some analysts expect a resumption of supply soon via the strait, with other factors weighing down physical market prices. Some analysts expect a resumption of supply soon via the strait, with other factors weighing down physical market prices. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/wall-street-rallies-dow-ends-record-us-iran-deal-oil-price-slide The Business Times en 2026-06-16T06:01:01+08:00 Wall Street rallies, Dow ends with record on US-Iran deal, oil price slide https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2b17cb87626555a9e0a45f16781e98036fa16d1e01421c4e97440ba82316c203 The S&P 500 energy index was its biggest laggard, finishing down 3.6%. The three main indexes marked their third consecutive session of gains. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/europes-stoxx-600-ends-record-high-us-iran-deal-lifts-sentiment The Business Times en 2026-06-16T05:39:24+08:00 Europe’s Stoxx 600 ends at record high as US-Iran deal lifts sentiment https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/932ba353b64d44d2a7a404599e0d2d3eecda6e774e8c8862bcf25101c5ee05b4 Concerns over energy-driven inflation led the European Central Bank to hike interest rates by 25 basis points last week. Concerns over energy-driven inflation led the European Central Bank to hike interest rates by 25 basis points last week. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/us-stocks-dow-hits-record-high-iran-deal-optimism-lower-oil-prices The Business Times en 2026-06-15T22:36:35+08:00 US stocks: Dow hits record high on Iran deal optimism, lower oil prices https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a69336b09080483838dec18213ca75648490da211e4987c17fa266bbd80a396a All three main indexes were on track for a third straight session of gains on Monday. All three main indexes were on track for a third straight session of gains on Monday. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/nvidia-looks-raise-least-us20-billion-bond-offering The Business Times en 2026-06-15T22:28:05+08:00 Nvidia looks to raise at least US$20 billion from bond offering https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1fe29cdbe08a346163e105c4a55ee21495ac500385e912ab0fe649b6405e1926 Proceeds from Nvidia’s sale will help fund general corporate purposes, including the repayment and refinancing of outstanding notes. Proceeds from Nvidia’s sale will help fund general corporate purposes, including the repayment and refinancing of outstanding notes. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/us-manufacturing-output-stalls-first-time-year The Business Times en 2026-06-15T21:57:26+08:00 US manufacturing output stalls for the first time this year https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/30400bc66e8b389c6f6e043bb2110e85188b7a380f6d11dbd7af851f93af0b05 US factory output was little changed last month after an upwardly revised 0.7 per cent advance in April. US factory output was little changed last month after an upwardly revised 0.7 per cent advance in April. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/erp-alerts-roadside-e-parking-payment-trial-ahead-erp-2-roll-out The Business Times en 2026-06-15T21:52:34+08:00 ERP alerts, roadside e-parking payment in trial ahead of ERP 2 roll-out https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ba633da9c47eab4a570b5465180e982e1214fc1a810fd0f8cacdf9c0a988d158 The “ERP Ahead” notification will appear at the last possible exit before motorists reach a charging location. The “ERP Ahead” notification will appear at the last possible exit before motorists reach a charging location. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/vance-hopes-release-text-agreement-halt-war-iran-week The Business Times en 2026-06-15T21:48:40+08:00 Vance hopes to release text of agreement to halt war in Iran this week https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4ec59049338af8e6ec91d33b7fab8581bd445d9e23faf9ee0c7f0d97aeb79257 US Vice-President JD Vance said Iran’s foreign minister and House speaker will represent Iran at the signing in Switzerland on Jun 19. US Vice-President JD Vance said Iran’s foreign minister and House speaker will represent Iran at the signing in Switzerland on Jun 19. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/macron-rebuffs-trumps-threats-wine-tariffs-g7-meets The Business Times en 2026-06-15T21:32:35+08:00 Macron rebuffs Trump’s threats of wine tariffs as G7 meets https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b3fc176498784d80be85afff1325623f101ef3ce018c482e66391e29b16c4ba0 “This digital tax, which several European countries have decided on and implemented, is part of our law,” French President Macron said on TF1 television. “This digital tax, which several European countries have decided on and implemented, is part of our law,” French President Macron said on TF1 television. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/oil-hits-3-month-low-us-iran-reach-peace-deal-reopen-strait-hormuz The Business Times en 2026-06-15T21:06:43+08:00 Oil hits 3-month low as US, Iran reach peace deal to reopen Strait of Hormuz https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5bdad6343eb6a01a2f91a17dad053e94e1cb74927d8bfeffb67fa3ea37766cd0 US President Trump said on Sunday that the Strait of Hormuz would be open “toll free” and that a US naval blockade of Iranian ports would also end. US President Trump said on Sunday that the Strait of Hormuz would be open “toll free” and that a US naval blockade of Iranian ports would also end. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/blackrock-evaluating-s330m-hotel-purchase-singapore-cbd-chinatown-area The Business Times en 2026-06-15T20:14:32+08:00 BlackRock evaluating S$330m hotel purchase in Singapore CBD, Chinatown area https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/faa7d456496fa87a0bcfa39c91dae8058225c8dc3537b2af47233c2f8f191e7b Capri by Fraser China Square. The 16-storey Capri by Fraser China Square opened in 2019. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/allianzs-reported-hsbc-life-bid-reflects-race-scale-singapores-competitive-life-insurance-sector The Business Times en 2026-06-15T20:14:26+08:00 Allianz’s reported HSBC Life bid reflects race for scale in Singapore’s competitive life insurance sector https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1b616b51c8c6e64a89bc260170e0b834a040d0b3b42f5a10b9f4c0cc1a5509db Consolidation trends are likely to persist in Singapore as insurers seek greater scale, improved efficiency, and stronger distribution capabilities to sustain profitability in the competitive market. Consolidation trends are likely to persist in Singapore as insurers seek greater scale, says Fitch Ratings' Asia-Pacific insurance team. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/retail-investors-face-tighter-limits-funds-spacex-ipo-flipping The Business Times en 2026-06-15T19:36:54+08:00 Retail investors face tighter limits than funds in SpaceX IPO flipping https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4dca233b71841a2ce3ad73df516a0b38996b1af43532284f1644f33030bfd7e8 Retail investors took 20 per cent in SpaceX's IPO. Retail investors took 20 per cent in SpaceX's IPO. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/very-low-chance-us-iran-deal-reverts-energy-flows-south-east-asia-through-hormuz-bloomberg-economics The Business Times en 2026-06-15T19:25:38+08:00 ‘Very low chance’ that US-Iran deal reverts energy flows to South-east Asia through Hormuz: Bloomberg Economics https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/61c22cdc3303485322d530d7b35d5751d584096e3faf1d0633254e4df5ab5368 Iran has been emboldened by the relative ease with which it has been able to influence shipping flows through the strait since the conflict began, noted economist Tamara Henderson.. As much as 90% of the crude oil supply of South-east Asian economies is imported from the Middle East, with much of it shipped through the Strait of Hormuz. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/shippers-remain-cautious-hormuz-strait-transit-after-us-and-iran-agree-deal The Business Times en 2026-06-15T19:21:39+08:00 Shippers remain cautious on Hormuz strait transit after US and Iran agree deal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c1702bdbae0d867bc55d0cbdad43e512fe3d0f521a5c8badf217a8615cfe6175 Shipping association BIMCO said on Monday it still considers transits through the strait highly risky, with mines remaining a key concern. Shipping association Bimco said on Monday it still considers transits through the strait highly risky, with mines remaining a key concern. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/singapore-stocks-continue-rally-sti-1 The Business Times en 2026-06-15T18:52:52+08:00 Singapore stocks continue rally; STI up 1% https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/9e786973166f66e34784ff2d1be0d49e0fe99faea88fdd483ec821d7ef07c64d Across the broader market, gainers beat losers 435 to 196, after 1.5 billion securities worth S$2.1 billion change hands. Across the broader market, gainers beat losers 435 to 196, after 1.5 billion securities worth S$2.1 billion change hands.