https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/sats-posts-31-rise-q4-profit-despite-impact-middle-east-conflict The Business Times en 2026-05-25T22:30:41+08:00 Sats posts 31% rise in Q4 profit despite impact of Middle East conflict https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/81a14324ed599f03e5b6d719bc3bdaadbd54747c5978e0967b9708f18d75ffba Sats president and CEO Kerry Mok says the group has been "working closely with customers to maintain their cargo flows as routes and lanes shift" amid the Middle East conflict. Sats president and CEO Kerry Mok says the group has been "working closely with customers to maintain their cargo flows as routes and lanes shift" amid the Middle East conflict. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/eldest-son-vietnams-richest-man-steps-vinfast-chair The Business Times en 2026-05-25T21:58:29+08:00 Eldest son of Vietnam’s richest man steps up as VinFast chair https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7a0e9e87494f7f38132fc91c48eaac0e7b9a1af0741eda592b13853ec8557563 Pham Nhat Quan Anh, 33, is also vice-chairman and standing deputy general director at VinFast Trading and Production. Pham Nhat Quan Anh, 33, is also vice-chairman and standing deputy general director at VinFast Trading and Production. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/us-iran-edge-closer-deal-still-need-negotiate-points The Business Times en 2026-05-25T21:05:40+08:00 US, Iran edge closer to deal but still need to negotiate points https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/48feda1f88e253f1f953e2efe8cd7175f00c53774349e0365b192dd799925eab Oil prices fell on Monday after Washington and Teheran indicated they were close to agreeing a broad framework. Oil prices fell on Monday after Washington and Teheran indicated they were close to agreeing a broad framework. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/governance-workforce-gaps-hinder-companies-ai-adoption-despite-rising-investments-kpmg The Business Times en 2026-05-25T20:13:53+08:00 Governance, workforce gaps hinder companies’ AI adoption despite rising investments: KPMG https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4408ba1192a8816ecb55ccb0c56f7a9cf76a6528917b6c5c33fdbc601a83d254 From left: Gerry Chng, partner, head of cyber, advisory, KPMG in Singapore; Lyon Poh, partner, head of corporate transformation and AI, KPMG in Singapore; Lee Sze Yeng, managing partner, KPMG in Singapore; Jasmin Lau, Minister of State for Digital Development and Information and Education; Jermaine Loy, managing director of the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB). From left: KPMG in Singapore's Gerry Chng, Lyon Poh and Lee Sze Yeng; Minister of State for Digital Development and Information Jasmin Lau; and EDB's Jermaine Loy at the AI CoE's launch. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/only-15-workers-singapore-feel-their-jobs-are-safe-amid-ai-driven-anxieties-survey The Business Times en 2026-05-25T19:14:38+08:00 Only 15% of workers in Singapore feel their jobs are safe amid AI-driven anxieties: survey https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/094799aa2a306e30a861bdb464bd6c849b3e3bfba7c0210af3bca17d405cf096 Younger workers in Singapore, aged between 18 and 26, were the most optimistic about their prospects, with 22 per cent saying they felt secure in their jobs. Younger workers in Singapore, aged between 18 and 26, are the most optimistic about their prospects. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/singapore-stocks-rise-monday-amid-buzz-over-potential-us-iran-deal-sti-0-1 The Business Times en 2026-05-25T18:47:05+08:00 Singapore stocks rise on Monday amid buzz over potential US-Iran deal; STI up 0.1% https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/06fb1c698753ab6d9bfac64cd7e3ce3ad4e1c97ddb1c154514476b2266e3953e The benchmark STI is up 2.4 points at 5,070.55. The benchmark STI is up 2.4 points at 5,070.55. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/pope-leo-warns-ai-should-be-prevented-dominating-humanity The Business Times en 2026-05-25T18:44:27+08:00 Pope Leo warns AI should be prevented from ‘dominating humanity’ https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ee55eaeea41ed26b877eb9e888af9e92b943b95a180fe0ed28af0dd53ff868ec Pope Leo XIV prepares to speak during the presentation of "Magnifica humanitas", his first encyclical, focused on the rise of AI, at the Vatican, May 25, 2026. Pope Leo XIV prepares to speak during the presentation of "Magnifica humanitas", his first encyclical, focused on the rise of AI, at the Vatican, May 25, 2026. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/daily-debrief-what-happened-today-may-25 The Business Times en 2026-05-25T18:30:00+08:00 Daily Debrief: What Happened Today (May 25) https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f1a1901a1297e369198a3f55addba5cd45909198a0952ceb36feb32197fd18a5 A view of the Port of Singapore, Pasir Panjang Terminal 1. Electronic shipments expanded by 57.8% in Q1, up from the 23.4% increase the previous quarter. Electronic shipments expanded by 57.8% in Q1, up from the 23.4% increase the previous quarter. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/after-american-order-how-mid-sized-states-could-become-middle-powers The Business Times en 2026-05-25T18:30:00+08:00 After the American order: How mid-sized states could become middle powers https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/feadd877a51660c6e98617e97d4553a137cb4903cfd5d80fe0c003ee35414325 The combination of their interests and capacity to pursue them means that middle powers desire, and could prove pivotal to the emergence of, a new world order. The combination of their interests and capacity to pursue them means that middle powers desire, and could prove pivotal to the emergence of, a new world order. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/narrow-door-out-hormuz-war The Business Times en 2026-05-25T18:00:00+08:00 A narrow door out of the Hormuz war https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/797b3ce7fddc6d0f7e47589a27a8a1c40846cf28758da368dbae20d1ec4fc8b1 Iranian mines in the strait have done what no Opec quota ever could: throttled the world’s most important energy artery and driven US inflation to its highest level in years. Iranian mines in the strait have throttled the world’s most important energy artery and driven US inflation to its highest level in years. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/japans-takaichi-unveils-3-trillion-yen-extra-budget-reassures-bond-issuance The Business Times en 2026-05-25T17:58:49+08:00 Japan’s Takaichi unveils 3 trillion yen extra Budget, reassures on bond issuance https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/09d9c1e5b535bf686b9ad346663b1ed3a7e63777ec8e6c81b9e90b3d89c827e1 Japan's PM said any additional issuance of deficit-financing bonds to fund the extra budget is likely to be offset by higher tax revenue and others. Japan's PM said any additional issuance of deficit-financing bonds to fund the extra budget is likely to be offset by higher tax revenue and others. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/high-court-raps-uob-over-inconsistent-legal-positions-late-mortgage-payment-charges The Business Times en 2026-05-25T17:50:48+08:00 High Court raps UOB over inconsistent legal positions on late mortgage payment charges https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1abd31475d44b56b63739dd7d665dd10e0a10c92d0f74a47fc3d3f1af96be1b9 The High Court said UOB has taken inconsistent legal positions on late payment charges in mortgage cases. The High Court said UOB has taken inconsistent legal positions on late payment charges in mortgage cases. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/farmland-south-lim-chu-kang-be-zoned-defence-land-further-north-be-used-agriculture The Business Times en 2026-05-25T17:26:43+08:00 Farmland south of Lim Chu Kang to be zoned for defence, land further north to be used for agriculture https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/57bc202ff055588348e405055c61619daa229458080d6c267fc05f0bf1d6cc06 Gallop Kranji Farm Resort is among five lease-holders currently occupying the southern plots at Neo Tiew Lane and Neo Tiew Road. Gallop Kranji Farm Resort is among five lease-holders currently occupying the southern plots at Neo Tiew Lane and Neo Tiew Road. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/european-shares-climb-over-two-month-highs-iran-us-peace-optimism The Business Times en 2026-05-25T17:15:44+08:00 European shares climb to over two-month highs on Iran-US peace optimism https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d82e0c3caf8baa2c817b9560d50165e38c160a12ed7118439558d7b3e89dc50d The Stoxx 600 was up 0.67 per cent at 629.28 points at 0818 GMT on Monday, just shy of a record high touched in late February. The Stoxx 600 was up 0.67 per cent at 629.28 points at 0818 GMT on Monday, just shy of a record high touched in late February. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/malaysia-reports-fallout-iran-war-industries-get-hit The Business Times en 2026-05-25T16:19:48+08:00 Malaysia reports fallout from Iran war as industries get hit https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c805cc02e6691a3c25ae1a9c222558a8f9f295a8ad454692dc018b0ef3e38c76 Malaysia's Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the investment figures tell only part of the story as the harder test lies ahead on how fast the authorities could turn the approvals into projects, and plans into execution. Malaysia's Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the number of workers who lost their jobs rose 21 per cent to 7,057 in April from March. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/erp-charges-may-resume-orchard-road-if-congestion-area-worsens-lta The Business Times en 2026-05-25T16:10:44+08:00 ERP charges may resume in Orchard Road if congestion in the area worsens: LTA https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/9db1c215fa67b75c0a4f65ec7f6e5e43ac239357bd0a02ef84101b32f395270d LTA is closely monitoring traffic in the Orchard area, which has seen speeds persistently lower than optimal. LTA is closely monitoring traffic in the Orchard area, which has seen speeds persistently lower than optimal. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/ecb-convening-bank-meeting-fix-flaws-exposed-ai-models-report The Business Times en 2026-05-25T16:10:09+08:00 ECB convening bank meeting to fix flaws exposed by AI models: report https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e840a29702d2877b2ba6b7826978d180e4c04b74f69f5003aae9493a96a241fb Mythos, which can identify unknown flaws in IT systems, has sent a wave of anxiety across Europe as Anthropic is limiting access to it. Mythos, which can identify unknown flaws in IT systems, has sent a wave of anxiety across Europe as Anthropic is limiting access to it. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/thailands-trade-deficit-hits-record-us10-billion-imports-soar The Business Times en 2026-05-25T16:02:43+08:00 Thailand’s trade deficit hits record US$10 billion as imports soar https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/978fbce8779d2161859e8b610cd2e0430b6b675dbc0c94b3376585b1b89439f3 The trend of strong imports and a widening trade deficit is likely to continue if energy prices remain elevated and the AI boom continues to fuel trade flows. The trend of strong imports and a widening trade deficit is likely to continue if energy prices remain elevated and the AI boom continues to fuel trade flows. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/should-buyers-get-more-excited-over-relatively-cheap-freehold-newport-residences The Business Times en 2026-05-25T15:56:10+08:00 Should buyers get more excited over relatively ‘cheap’ freehold Newport Residences? https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/56ce5a04fa4138361d4c24973365cbeca2d0f7c4220e3486f4bcac6dd2b00684 Newport Residences spans levels 23 to 45 of the 45-storey Newport Plaza, which will also have Grade A offices, F&B spaces and branded serviced apartments. Newport Residences spans levels 23 to 45 of the 45-storey Newport Plaza, which will also have Grade A offices, F&B spaces and branded serviced apartments. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/japan-bond-yield-surge-deepens-regional-bank-stock-divide The Business Times en 2026-05-25T15:50:55+08:00 Japan bond yield surge deepens regional bank stock divide https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a82ec01e5ff29beac1ce80dfd029fd1d8580c89b1983fe1f602f9aad095a8b10 Banking stock prices have more than doubled over the past several years since the Bank of Japan started raising interest rates and normalising monetary policy in March 2024. Banking stock prices have more than doubled over the past several years since the Bank of Japan started raising interest rates and normalising monetary policy in March 2024. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/softbank-taps-retail-investors-us1-6-billion-yen-bond-deal The Business Times en 2026-05-25T15:50:47+08:00 SoftBank taps retail investors with US$1.6 billion yen bond deal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6f95d57267500c25c46491598643ad0734f49d0e980921ff0040f3569cabf938 SoftBank’s swift return to the retail bond market comes amid its growing funding needs for artificial intelligence-related investments. SoftBank’s swift return to the retail bond market comes amid its growing funding needs for artificial intelligence-related investments. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/australian-shares-notch-two-week-closing-peak-middle-east-peace-hopes The Business Times en 2026-05-25T15:32:52+08:00 Australian shares notch two-week closing peak on Middle East peace hopes https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3ad57876201f6b3d4692bf1739fa533fad449648a074cef2829262e16944ab18 The S&P/ASX 200 index rose 0.4 per cent to 8,692 at the close, its highest since May 11, extending gains for a third straight session. The S&P/ASX 200 index rose 0.4 per cent to 8,692 at the close, its highest since May 11, extending gains for a third straight session. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/ai-boom-masks-mounting-risks-middle-east-energy-shock-mas-chief The Business Times en 2026-05-25T14:49:19+08:00 AI boom masks mounting risks from Middle East energy shock: MAS chief https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/71e5b8abd1983ef6f95a7ce2ba264f7da4f99762264420a0016ab13d12b2b817 Young Jin Yee, Co-Head UBS Global Wealth Management Asia Pacific and Country Head UBS Singapore, in conversation with Chia Der Jiun, Managing Director, Monetary Authority of Singapore, on the macro-economic outlook and evolving geopolitical landscape UBS' Young Jin Yee (left) in conversation with MAS' Chia Der Jiun on the macroeconomic outlook and evolving geopolitical landscape. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/vinhomes-lets-homebuyers-pay-gold-tapping-vietnams-vast-private-hoards The Business Times en 2026-05-25T14:18:50+08:00 Vinhomes lets homebuyers pay with gold, tapping Vietnam’s vast private hoards https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2fd5a235379bec7924e638fd6d8a7f8e9857ce33b7c5c6e668bead1824e617fa Under Vinhome's scheme, the value of gold converted into cash must cover at least 80% of a property’s purchase price. Under Vinhome's scheme, the value of gold converted into cash must cover at least 80% of a property’s purchase price. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/addvalue-tech-ends-20-3-higher-h2-earnings-surge The Business Times en 2026-05-25T13:42:32+08:00 Addvalue Tech ends 20.3% higher on H2 earnings surge  https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/16b3497edf6e0e3a6538d8917cc31f624f860e39ffac1b76be767afd75259665 For the full year, Addvalue’s net profit is up 147.5% at US$4.8 million, from US$2 million previously. For the full year, Addvalue’s net profit is up 147.5% at US$4.8 million, from US$2 million previously. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/economy-policy/singapore-core-inflation-cools-1-4-april-benign-surprise The Business Times en 2026-05-25T13:00:15+08:00 Singapore core inflation cools to 1.4% in April in benign surprise https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b4410c8e04293c97867104c6600ac5c2dc81e3e09be0d51aceb243e2327afada Generic of shoppers at the Sheng Siong supermarket outlet at West Coast on April 6, 2026. Economists expected core inflation to rise to 1.8%, and headline inflation to come in at 2.1% in April. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/china-trading-curbs-may-hit-hk250-billion-hong-kong-assets The Business Times en 2026-05-25T12:47:49+08:00 China trading curbs may hit HK$250 billion of Hong Kong assets https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/43382206553e45dcc995a7e3aec634c92cc21eb7a763196059e97c8f7e35e5ed The move marks Beijing’s most aggressive attempt yet to curb citizens from accessing overseas markets outside approved channels. The move marks Beijing’s most aggressive attempt yet to curb citizens from accessing overseas markets outside approved channels. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/transport-logistics/vessels-carrying-middle-east-oil-lng-exit-hormuz-amid-us-iran-peace-talks-head-pakistan-china The Business Times en 2026-05-25T12:11:31+08:00 Vessels carrying Middle East oil, LNG exit Hormuz amid US-Iran peace talks, head for Pakistan, China https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c80ec1d92c867f7bd1293b05be182375fa3f51384f5f8ff10f76ebccc8bf54cf Before ​the war began, shipping traffic through Hormuz averaged 125 ‌to ⁠140 daily passages. Before ​the war began, shipping traffic through Hormuz averaged 125 ‌to ⁠140 daily passages. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/toshifumi-suzuki-who-transformed-7-eleven-chain-dies-93 The Business Times en 2026-05-25T11:45:06+08:00 Toshifumi Suzuki, who transformed 7-Eleven chain, dies at 93 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/123e4333132faf97e1b4e3ba3408159db22d40f874ab649b9ab11bc4d3fcbc8c Toshifumi Suzuki revolutionised how Japanese people shop when he opened the nation’s first 24-hour 7-Eleven franchise in 1974. Toshifumi Suzuki revolutionised how Japanese people shop when he opened the nation’s first 24-hour 7-Eleven franchise in 1974. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/japans-nikkei-jumps-past-65000-mark-first-time-iran-talks-optimism The Business Times en 2026-05-25T11:19:24+08:00 Japan’s Nikkei jumps past 65,000 mark for first time on Iran talks optimism https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7dcdee6160147503766b8b5af91b08baaa440d51d5a54f5180d3f115b4da7f38 Japan’s dependence on imported energy has made its economy vulnerable to a surge in oil prices caused by the nearly three-month conflict. Japan’s dependence on imported energy has made its economy vulnerable to a surge in oil prices caused by the nearly three-month conflict. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/china-uses-first-time-new-rules-counter-improper-foreign-jurisdiction-over-its-firms The Business Times en 2026-05-25T10:22:30+08:00 China uses for the first time new rules to counter ‘improper’ foreign jurisdiction over its firms https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/37bc95a704b52568eb77063ef46221ed315b03a637ebc8ad58a1659ff891bf38 On May 2, Beijing ordered its companies not to comply with US sanctions on five Chinese refineries accused of buying Iranian oil, including Hengli Petrochemicals (above). On May 2, Beijing ordered its companies not to comply with US sanctions on five Chinese refineries accused of buying Iranian oil, including Hengli Petrochemicals (above). https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/chinas-huawei-reveals-chip-design-breakthrough-amid-us-sanctions The Business Times en 2026-05-25T10:10:56+08:00 China’s Huawei reveals chip design breakthrough amid US sanctions https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a9967f8e1cee31123934d6a045fa78cb5c4fc8af975185dce825e8697473027d Huawei will start making 1.4-nanometre (nm) chips by 2031 with its own “LogicFolding” technology, Huawei’s semiconductor chief He Tingbo says. Huawei unveiled on Monday a new principle for improving chips, noting the industry can no longer rely mainly on making transistors smaller. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/jardine-matheson-acquiring-i-med-radiology-network-3-4-billion The Business Times en 2026-05-25T10:02:31+08:00 Jardine Matheson acquiring I-MED Radiology Network for A$3.4 billion https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0c82b4cebebb96e234b0bc4c6e5ae14a255074fc1c734a1507b117c4ae3a391b I-MED operates a network of 215 diagnostic imaging clinics across metropolitan and regional communities in Australia and New Zealand. I-MED operates a network of 215 diagnostic imaging clinics across Australia and New Zealand. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/paid-press-release/agentforce-360-adoption-drives-strong-customer-growth-for-salesforce-singapore The Business Times en 2026-05-25T10:00:00+08:00 Agentforce 360 Adoption Drives Strong Customer Growth for Salesforce Singapore https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/500ea3ac69b2758579920029de491cb5c2ebb8371972a015b9f3a57910ef07db Keynote session at Agentforce World Tour 2026 exploring how Agentforce can help support businesses transform into Agentic Enterprises Keynote session at Agentforce World Tour 2026 exploring how Agentforce can help support businesses transform into Agentic Enterprises https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/indonesia-eyes-commodity-export-policy-detail-roll-out-coming-weeks The Business Times en 2026-05-25T09:51:17+08:00 Indonesia eyes commodity export policy detail roll-out in coming weeks https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/82970c46e4f92d05025bc6939f162aab92742a2ef00bd8b2cf969d95f20105b0 Indonesia's Vice-Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri says that the move is essential to “protect our national interests” and maximise export revenue. Indonesia's Vice-Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri says that the move is essential to “protect our national interests” and maximise export revenue. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/geo-energy-expects-further-clarity-indonesias-plan-centralise-commodity-export-controls The Business Times en 2026-05-25T09:10:51+08:00 Geo Energy expects ‘further clarity’ on Indonesia’s plan to centralise commodity export controls https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b9334a1993363a64081b70d695f22736925165691a63c26a2abfe8129594ce14 Geo Energy said that its current production, logistics, customer relationships, and export activities continue “as (per) normal,” as their fundamentals remain “strong.” Geo Energy says it has not received any official communication or directive in relation to the Indonesian government’s plan. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/mapletree-industrial-trust-divests-philadelphia-data-centre-us14-5-million The Business Times en 2026-05-25T09:00:13+08:00 Mapletree Industrial Trust divests Philadelphia data centre for US$14.5 million https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ea0f7871168d2fc24da0550f90d4dd95cf36edff5d3d76c571be20fe651e6e05 Lily Ler, chief executive officer of the manager of MIT said the sale is part of the trust’s broader strategy to “rebalance (its) portfolio. Lily Ler, chief executive officer of the manager of MIT, says the sale is part of the trust’s broader strategy to "rebalance (its) portfolio". https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/aspial-lifestyle-raises-s84-8-million-s0-402-apiece The Business Times en 2026-05-25T08:47:43+08:00 Aspial Lifestyle raises S$84.8 million at S$0.402 apiece https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5b82bc2b5f706c58c8009961b43208eda8819f45efc31381d308bc26280662f3 Aspial Lifestyle's total number of shares rose from around 1.9 billion shares to 2 billion shares, following the completion of the private placement. Aspial Lifestyle's private placement is over two times covered, and attracted investors including Eastspring. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/stocks-watch-mapletree-industrial-trust-hour-glass-ui-boustead-reit-boustead-singapore-aspial The Business Times en 2026-05-25T08:20:13+08:00 Stocks to watch: Mapletree Industrial Trust, The Hour Glass, UI Boustead Reit, Boustead Singapore, Aspial Lifestyle https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4e7076280e54f696de53a6f09cec7f38b647490329d2713881f7ace22a6b801f The Hour Glass' revenue for H2 rose 16 per cent year on year to S$722.8 million, from S$622.6 million. The Hour Glass' revenue for its H2 rose 16 per cent year on year to S$722.8 million, from S$622.6 million. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/economy-policy/singapore-upgrades-2026-key-exports-growth-forecast-3-5-electronics-shipments-power-q1-expansion The Business Times en 2026-05-25T08:01:27+08:00 Singapore upgrades 2026 key exports growth forecast to 3-5% as electronics shipments power Q1 expansion https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f1a1901a1297e369198a3f55addba5cd45909198a0952ceb36feb32197fd18a5 A view of the Port of Singapore, Pasir Panjang Terminal 1. Electronic shipments expanded by 57.8% in Q1, up from the 23.4% increase the previous quarter. Electronic shipments expanded by 57.8% in Q1, up from the 23.4% increase the previous quarter. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/economy-policy/singapore-maintains-2026-growth-forecast-2-4-despite-rising-downside-risks-iran-war The Business Times en 2026-05-25T08:00:00+08:00 Singapore maintains 2026 growth forecast at 2-4% despite rising downside risks from Iran war https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/156346322720468b0e180e8545ce71e41b55af7ffa0b6d10b1b22f70b9ee3719 The global outlook has deteriorated since MTI raised its official forecast in early February, with the Iran war starting on Feb 28. Downside risks for Singapore have risen significantly, says MTI, as energy and key input supply disruptions due to the Strait of Hormuz blockade lead to cost spikes, driving up inflationary pressures. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/war-driven-supply-shock-already-roiling-manufacturing-asia The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:36:54+08:00 The war-driven supply shock already roiling manufacturing in Asia https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/fcfd1b243285e352982832d9076ccccf5247a1914f79a47c96017057cedaae2a In Asia, naphtha supply chains have long been dependent on the Middle East. In Asia, naphtha supply chains have long been dependent on the Middle East. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/chinas-tajikistan-treaty-shows-central-asias-new-investment-geography The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 China’s Tajikistan treaty shows Central Asia’s new investment geography https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5e3657c5ed3cac0786fab936601638146070f48449b52b861e9e8b171aa1cc27 Tajikistan's President Emomali Rahmon (left) and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The countries have upgraded their 2007 Good-Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation Treaty into a permanent framework. Tajikistan's President Emomali Rahmon (left) and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The countries have upgraded their 2007 Good-Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation Treaty into a permanent framework. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/what-will-power-growth-amid-uncertainty-asean-businesses-say-answer-lies-close-home-bt-survey The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 What will power growth amid uncertainty? Asean businesses say answer lies close to home: BT survey https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/acb1276e3f0abddbfbb093d0045730874c9190a0a483e57bc5d4cb4251e241fa Flags of Asean countries flying in Vientiane, Laos where the 44th and 45th Asean Summits will be held, 8 October 2024. While the Middle East crisis has cast a shadow on the business outlook, overall sentiment among business leaders in Asean remains positive. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/high-opportunity-low-trust-why-firms-see-asean-market-attractive-not-easy-navigate The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 ‘High opportunity, low trust’: Why firms see Asean market as attractive but not easy to navigate https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b9f6dfc5d853e7cfaf8c7e02a51bffb6fc9cfec6e179391dd4bf8a27316831be Buildings in the Central Business District (CBD) in Makati City, the Philippines. The Philippines has the largest mismatch between opportunity and trust, with a third of the 46 business executives surveyed citing it. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/wealth/wealth-investing/strong-apac-wealth-creation-boosts-ubs-profitability-and-assets-new-record The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 Strong Apac wealth creation boosts UBS’ profitability and assets to new record https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7cd6151622499b306e8462caa81db1f75d5d739fce65288459c6fb3a2a3119a5 Young Jin Yee, co-head of UBS global wealth management for the Asia-Pacific, says UBS has the most diversified footprint among its competitors. Young Jin Yee, co-head of UBS global wealth management for the Asia-Pacific, says UBS has the most diversified footprint among its competitors. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/asean-firms-allocate-81-investments-within-asia-move-supply-chains-region-bt-survey The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 Asean firms to allocate 81% of investments within Asia, move supply chains to region: BT survey https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c96c4d1c4f197e8c644208c21464faef6b452142275e41affa9e561c56104541 Across Asean, automation and AI are the top investment priority, survey respondents say. Across Asean, automation and AI are the top investment priority, survey respondents say. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/aims-apac-reit-eyes-data-centre-growth-it-expands-beyond-industrial-assets The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 Aims Apac Reit eyes data centre growth as it expands beyond industrial assets https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/91817f43f88fa7311583eb6a378ee50ffa9fe9fa1558f6e7c51f4e6775e9c867 Russell Ng, CEO of Aims Apac Reit's manager, says that even after "another year of steady growth" in FY2026, the Reit is "making a deliberate pivot towards data centres". Russell Ng, CEO of Aims Apac Reit's manager, says that even after "another year of steady growth" in FY2026, the Reit is "making a deliberate pivot towards data centres". https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/indonesia-leads-asean-ai-adoption-demand-sovereign-models-rises-bt-survey The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 Indonesia leads Asean in AI adoption as demand for sovereign models rises: BT survey https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/962e2c02b010305cd3481624fe4f4901cb9028c4e6b901154f0088bdccba1fd0 A participant walks in front of an AI banner during the Microsoft AI Tour event in Jakarta, Indonesia, 27 May 2025. Just over six in 10 of Indonesia’s companies are considered “first movers”, a BT survey has found. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/investor-engagement-road-paved-good-intentions-where-it-going The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 Investor engagement: A road paved with good intentions, but where is it going? https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4a8b483f143c0637b312f8d315b3eae40f90efa7a0d7fba29c58b541fc5c5979 Codifying rules on investor relations may result in generic disclosures and box-ticking, rather than meaningful communication and engagement. Codifying rules on investor relations may result in generic disclosures and box-ticking, rather than meaningful communication and engagement, says the writer. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/nasdaq-100s-longer-term-trend-still-bullish-despite-recent-increase-volatility The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 Nasdaq 100’s longer-term trend still bullish despite recent increase in volatility https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8b3a3f00b1d784605984c9eec09099ef5c051dbb5a4a84b92d76d386b99292a5 Investors remain increasingly sensitive to valuation pressures stemming from higher interest rates. Investors remain increasingly sensitive to valuation pressures stemming from higher interest rates. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/oil-slips-2-week-low-us-iran-seen-moving-closer-peace-deal The Business Times en 2026-05-25T06:57:15+08:00 Oil slips to 2-week low as US-Iran seen moving closer to peace deal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/dab2d5f59c055a158fba213d21e5be952f37aa7b20bee14a6b79339a27821a0e Hormuz, which links the region to world markets, has been subject to a double blockade, with curbs imposed by both Iran and the US. Hormuz, which links the region to world markets, has been subject to a double blockade, with curbs imposed by both Iran and the US. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/gold-gains-prospects-iran-deal-temper-inflation-concerns The Business Times en 2026-05-25T06:34:19+08:00 Gold gains as prospects of Iran deal temper inflation concerns https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/81df9bc74dc029f8a32bf192e91da4233bab15b6562e7c45c81a6e3b92728e06 Higher rates typically weigh on gold as it pays no interest. Bullion has traded within a fairly narrow range since falling sharply in the early days of the Iran war. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/new-zealand-ease-golden-visa-investment-criteria-allow-philanthropy The Business Times en 2026-05-25T06:11:13+08:00 New Zealand to ease golden visa investment criteria to allow philanthropy https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ae6c7ac8461cef40c74bea713d4f4c301a48f6e888671dae10f7789bcbd78a22 Demand for New Zealand’s golden visa has been strong since the coalition government revamped the rules in April 2025. Demand for New Zealand’s golden visa has been strong since the coalition government revamped the rules in April 2025. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/podcasts/yield-without-fear-navigating-credit-markets-high-rate-era The Business Times en 2026-05-25T05:00:00+08:00 Yield without fear: Navigating credit markets in a high-rate era https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b80d82cf4c7d2763d19b8a58a8204e7d14a78045f8be4b9b93f4dd6ee4b268a6 How should the average retail investor think about reintroducing fixed income into a typically equity-heavy personal portfolio? How should the average retail investor think about reintroducing fixed income into a typically equity-heavy personal portfolio? https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/market-has-jumped-shark-sizzling-chip-stocks-rally-showing-signs-patterns-seen-2000 The Business Times en 2026-05-25T05:00:00+08:00 ‘Market has jumped the shark’: Sizzling chip stocks rally showing signs of patterns seen in 2000 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2aec3bef1e145e164a6ee669bf98b01fd41550a22d692e41b37ed3757263fe1b A trader works on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Tech giant Nvidia is on pace to become the world's first US$6 trillion company soon. A trader works on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Tech giant Nvidia is on pace to become the world's first US$6 trillion company soon. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/baltic-exchange-shipping-insights70 The Business Times en 2026-05-25T04:33:36+08:00 Baltic Exchange Shipping Insights https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/47c636d13af8cbcf373c08d71384c878c3296350bc4dcec2f2371efe4bcb3214 A roundup of the week’s tanker and dry bulk market. A roundup of the week’s tanker and dry bulk market. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/startups-tech/technology/ai-executives-were-all-just-meat-computers The Business Times en 2026-05-25T00:06:06+08:00 To AI executives, we’re all just ‘meat computers’ https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8aa3eccc5033f990b553e635ec00ceceff5b112d01515e1cb00e7a1a00f7c713 Elon Musk is among the tech executives that have referred to humans as “meat computers”. Elon Musk is among the tech executives that have referred to humans as “meat computers”. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/us-will-find-another-way-if-talks-iran-end-war-fail-rubio The Business Times en 2026-05-24T23:47:26+08:00 US will find ‘another way’ if talks with Iran to end war fail: Rubio https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/fca4605590b40c1b0b04babae3758a41a6fe53f1bf5980ee1b0e03a8d2cabebb US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US would give diplomacy every chance to succeed before exploring “alternatives”. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US would give diplomacy every chance to succeed before exploring “alternatives”. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/wealth/yields-stay-high-even-if-iran-war-ends-bond-strategists The Business Times en 2026-05-24T23:27:10+08:00 Yields to stay high even if Iran war ends: bond strategists https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/eb986e76e5deee7010a56b3e5a924a01c5de2d548f8ef96b6f1e28a275a4740a Among the factors weighing on longer-term borrowing costs is the mounting chance central banks such as the US Federal Reserve will raise interest rates.  Among the factors weighing on longer-term borrowing costs is the mounting chance central banks such as the US Federal Reserve will raise interest rates.  https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/nissan-unit-scraps-plan-make-ev-powertrains-uk-nikkei The Business Times en 2026-05-24T20:24:05+08:00 Nissan unit scraps plan to make EV powertrains in UK: Nikkei https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0eddf056e109a64602e501e78b0f8e8071f05d6bcd875c3a142b7733d6edf445 Nissan has said it will cut the number of its auto production plants to 10 from 17 and conduct a review of its powertrain factories. Nissan has said it will cut the number of its auto production plants to 10 from 17 and conduct a review of its powertrain factories. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/nacho-versus-taco-are-these-tex-mex-themes-about-give-investors-singapore-indigestion The Business Times en 2026-05-24T19:58:32+08:00 Nacho versus Taco: Are these Tex-Mex themes about to give investors in Singapore indigestion? https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/142705143b8389f0a1f5d23db432cef114de9706525b558e35671209a8e0bc9e Earnings at S&P 500 constituents rose 28.4 per cent in Q1 2026 – their fastest growth since Q4 2021, when the world was emerging from the pandemic Earnings at S&P 500 constituents rose 28.4% in Q1 2026 – their fastest growth since Q4 2021, when the world was emerging from the Covid-19 pandemic. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/s-reit-retail-flows-2026 The Business Times en 2026-05-24T18:38:51+08:00 S-Reit retail flows in 2026 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c673a9f4aef673775e0483696a3617f381c8652e596a214ac06188647377b2be Daiwa House Logistics Trust maintains lease visibility with a meaningful portion of expiries extending beyond 2030, supported by its logistics portfolio and stable tenant demand. Daiwa House Logistics Trust maintains lease visibility with a meaningful portion of expiries extending beyond 2030. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/directors-increase-stakes-aspial-lifestyle-raffles-medical-centurion-among-others The Business Times en 2026-05-24T18:38:35+08:00 Directors increase stakes in Aspial Lifestyle, Raffles Medical, Centurion, among others https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/665393808e44cc1f546eee66022ff1b169c0b0b6dab308b5c539a3957d0ae30a Directors or CEOs reported 16 acquisitions and five disposals, while substantial shareholders recorded 10 acquisitions and three disposals. Directors or CEOs reported 16 acquisitions and five disposals, while substantial shareholders recorded 10 acquisitions and three disposals. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/wealth/worlds-most-fervent-day-traders-south-korea-get-risky-new-tools The Business Times en 2026-05-24T16:27:17+08:00 World’s most fervent day traders in South Korea to get risky new tools https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7b8b449cb5fbc3f6707ee2a533f2cd7f14334883cfa02fd698c914ede6234670 Linked to chipmakers Samsung Electronicsand SK Hynix, the products will seek to deliver twice the daily moves of the two stocks, both central to the global AI trade. Linked to chipmakers Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, the products will seek to deliver twice the daily moves of the two stocks, both central to the global AI trade. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/lawsuit-risk-presidents-scorn-why-us-companies-are-tiptoeing-trump-tariff-refund-race The Business Times en 2026-05-24T16:06:02+08:00 Lawsuit risk, president’s scorn: Why US companies are tiptoeing into the Trump tariff-refund race https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/9f910da0cf3ea015dadffca5a66d621d2d8767a8e51d6e9d68c2a62bb3a7f25b US President Trump signs an executive order implementing new tariffs against US trading partners on Apr 2, 2025. US President Trump signs an executive order implementing new tariffs against US trading partners on Apr 2, 2025. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/shareholder-change-not-new-thing-firms-strength-comes-its-talent-cycle-carriage-md The Business Times en 2026-05-24T16:00:00+08:00 Shareholder change ‘not a new thing’; firm’s strength comes from its talent: Cycle & Carriage MD https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/636a1e1bf8eb9076c1418babdfb7cd3b15ca9b72f52f1d282d07739eeae038e8 The Cycle & Carriage sign at the automotive retailer's offices on 239 Alexandra Road, Singapore. Industry observers think recent moves by C&C's parent company could be preparations for a sale of the unit. Industry observers think recent moves by C&C's parent company could be preparations for a sale of the unit. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/showdown-tanglin-club-sees-new-rival-slate-elected-general-committee The Business Times en 2026-05-24T15:55:24+08:00 Showdown at Tanglin Club sees new rival slate elected to general committee https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/da6832b716f634dc8f28c16f57afc8962fc64d342a28352faf74e228b6438449 Among the issues in contention are plans to spend S$7 million for Green Mark certification and another S$5 million on pickleball court construction. Among the issues in contention are plans to spend S$7 million for Green Mark certification and another S$5 million on pickleball court construction. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/warshs-fed-regime-change-may-require-patience-consensus The Business Times en 2026-05-24T14:31:30+08:00 Warsh’s Fed ‘regime change’ may require patience, consensus https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/44037e7c2c39117638d94058b8b2857956535be2ab576d874fd1261b4197d05a Kevin Warsh, chairman of the US Federal Reserve, has told senators during his confirmation hearing that the central bank’s communications with the public and investors need “big changes”.. Kevin Warsh, chairman of the US Federal Reserve, has told senators during his confirmation hearing that the central bank’s communications with the public and investors need “big changes”.. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/deadly-coal-mine-blast-chinas-shanxi-tests-limits-president-xis-energy-security-push The Business Times en 2026-05-24T13:17:35+08:00 Deadly coal mine blast in China’s Shanxi tests limits of President Xi’s energy security push https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c4131d62bb426f481722b2503f6102721aa1292607c14aec31fd5541931467ca Rescuers work at the site on May 23 following a gas explosion at Liushenyu coal mine in China's Shanxi province. Rescuers work at the site on May 23 following a gas explosion at Liushenyu coal mine in China's Shanxi province. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/shanxi-coal-mine-disaster-china-lowers-death-toll-82-90-after-tallying-error The Business Times en 2026-05-24T12:43:44+08:00 Shanxi coal mine disaster: China lowers death toll to 82 from 90 after tallying error https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/68149801e91ec9b14e448374238d510fa9b0d279adc06a6c218d4879b231aa3e Rescuers at the site following a gas explosion at Liushenyu coal mine in China’s Shanxi province. Rescuers at the site following a gas explosion at Liushenyu coal mine in China’s Shanxi province. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/coming-vote-europes-soul The Business Times en 2026-05-24T12:00:00+08:00 The coming vote for Europe’s soul https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ab1b850e564655eba876a98f0e204215272e3c7b690b0b267bdde615b7d2ce81 When different tariffs are levied on similar goods originating in different countries, the price differences can significantly distort international trade patterns. When different tariffs are levied on similar goods originating in different countries, the price differences can significantly distort international trade patterns. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/iran-agreed-give-enriched-uranium-peace-deal-announced-trump-us-officials-say The Business Times en 2026-05-24T10:36:25+08:00 Iran agreed to give up enriched uranium in peace deal announced by Trump, US officials say https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/aa3fb12a736dd467bbc1872a99dfee1c95d21ef5ddee1af81e956e851d19d5ec A satellite imagery taken on Feb 1 shows a new roof over a previously destroyed building at Iran's Isfahan nuclear site. A satellite imagery taken on Feb 1 shows a new roof over a previously destroyed building at Iran's Isfahan nuclear site. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/trump-says-us-iran-deal-largely-negotiated-would-reopen-hormuz The Business Times en 2026-05-24T08:48:26+08:00 Trump says US-Iran deal ‘largely negotiated’, would reopen Hormuz https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2f96c71425ddf0775834acb42766b3f3dbd8eae071e8fa3ffa24dc6473cb8931 Weeks of war have left the vital Hormuz waterway closed to most shipping despite a nervous US-Iran ceasefire. Weeks of war have left the vital Hormuz waterway closed to most shipping despite a nervous US-Iran ceasefire. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/suspect-21-dies-after-trading-gunfire-officers-near-white-house-us-secret-service The Business Times en 2026-05-24T08:10:23+08:00 Suspect, 21, dies after trading gunfire with officers near White House: US Secret Service https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0b874eb2370058b039fdc3cbbc199b82702644ef686e1c5b387058daaea0e74b Law enforcement officers near the White House following reports of gunfire in Washington, DC, on May 23. Law enforcement officers near the White House following reports of gunfire in Washington, DC, on May 23.