https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/singapore-shares-end-higher-sti-0-7 The Business Times en 2026-06-18T18:47:19+08:00 Singapore shares end higher; STI up 0.7% https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/299d198368cd0a49b46d4cdd372bb6c31f83d6cb0ed19dc91e13679ca6e3e565 Across the broader market, gainers outnumber losers 372 to 242, after 1.3 billion securities worth S$2.2 billion change hands. Across the broader market, gainers outnumber losers 372 to 242, after 1.3 billion securities worth S$2.2 billion change hands. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/daily-debrief-what-happened-today-jun-182 The Business Times en 2026-06-18T18:45:00+08:00 Daily Debrief: What Happened Today (Jun 18) https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b9be019b10b3f96abf23d9e1f4b43ff35592b45135df947049c9a0cac68476c8 The River Valley Green (Parcel C) site is expected to yield 470 homes. The River Valley Green (Parcel C) site is expected to yield 470 homes. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/bank-indonesia-raises-rates-second-time-eight-days-defend-rupiah The Business Times en 2026-06-18T18:28:47+08:00 Bank Indonesia raises rates for the second time in eight days to defend rupiah https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e48195d3e925d997cf805540461783f54faa3029d5c1c5ee9fae6f4d1cf5e4aa With inflation contained and global risks showing tentative signs of easing, Indonesian authorities are using higher rates to reinforce confidence in the country’s assets. With inflation contained and global risks showing tentative signs of easing, Indonesian authorities are using higher rates to reinforce confidence in the country’s assets. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/petrochina-forecasts-chinese-oil-consumption-will-drop-4-9-year The Business Times en 2026-06-18T18:27:22+08:00 PetroChina forecasts Chinese oil consumption will drop 4.9% this year https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e40f5c8f66084b1dbf3b93056acf242a05887b23db723b9983ea98bc9eff25df China, the world’s second-largest oil consumer, is forecast to consume 753 million tons of oil in 2026, a 4.9 per cent drop from 2025. China, the world’s second-largest oil consumer, is forecast to consume 753 million tons of oil in 2026, a 4.9 per cent drop from 2025. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/ecbs-kocher-says-inflation-stay-while-after-iran-deal The Business Times en 2026-06-18T18:07:06+08:00 ECB’s Kocher says inflation to stay for a while after Iran deal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c9ced9a16f26650f32506490eea4509f930c5955bef10ccbd69bc64508c70bc0 Fresh forecasts show price gains taking until 2028 to ease back to ECB's 2 per cent target. Fresh forecasts show price gains taking until 2028 to ease back to ECB's 2 per cent target. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/food-drink/new-restaurants-finding-fresh-opportunities-singapores-volatile-dining-scene The Business Times en 2026-06-18T18:00:00+08:00 New restaurants – finding fresh opportunities in Singapore’s volatile dining scene https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0e7e9d7ea2b58dff2b0a983efd706f2ca1161ac9582f7b41851be14c35979fe7 The newly opened Orchard venue 67 on Scotts in Singapore offers all-day dining with a Mediterranean menu. The newly opened Orchard venue 67 on Scotts offers all-day dining with a Mediterranean menu. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/g7-summit-opens-door-asia-pacific-and-businesses The Business Times en 2026-06-18T18:00:00+08:00 G7 summit opens door to Asia-Pacific and businesses https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e96cb6f679a60a115c36dda199d0b938fd822a0bc6ef41f04953ebd863e46adc The bigger factor driving positive atmospherics at the summit was the announcement of the US-Iran MOU, and US President Donald Trump’s (centre) signing of the document.  The bigger factor driving positive atmospherics at the summit was the announcement of the US-Iran MOU, and US President Donald Trump’s (centre) signing of the document.  https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/china-seen-holding-rates-unchanged-uneven-economic-recovery-persists The Business Times en 2026-06-18T17:55:57+08:00 China seen holding rates unchanged as uneven economic recovery persists https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7d09f858444da4335dfa9955ac59b1c8789f2c164b7bd544f44c107b5fd0f8d5 The People's Bank of China appears to be deepening its control over short-term money markets, tying overnight borrowing costs more closely to its seven-day reverse repo rate. The People's Bank of China appears to be deepening its control over short-term money markets, tying overnight borrowing costs more closely to its seven-day reverse repo rate. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/transport-logistics/chinese-regulator-asks-lalamove-make-changes-comply-antitrust-rules The Business Times en 2026-06-18T17:47:58+08:00 Chinese regulator asks Lalamove to make changes to comply with antitrust rules https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/29272aa4915d43cb0f3ff1c246dae4313952435602c8d3478237f62e8c80d558 The regulator summoned Hong Kong-based Lalamove to a meeting in September, demanding the company abide by China’s anti-monopoly law and compete fairly. The regulator summoned Hong Kong-based Lalamove to a meeting in September, demanding the company abide by China’s anti-monopoly law and compete fairly. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/china-plans-mechanism-evaluate-ai-impacts-job-market The Business Times en 2026-06-18T17:47:25+08:00 China plans mechanism to evaluate AI impacts on job market https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/51d4bdd8f5a9108e86dc56060aa92766e8d517c2e28e0cc4d1a83f97cb00b5a4 As formal employment opportunities dwindle, more are being pushed into unstable gig work such as food delivery. As formal employment opportunities dwindle, more are being pushed into unstable gig work such as food delivery. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/sunway-mcl-csc-make-bold-bet-river-valley-site-s1730-psf-ppr-bid-s750-6-million The Business Times en 2026-06-18T17:36:41+08:00 Sunway MCL, CSC make bold bet on River Valley site with S$1,730 psf ppr bid at S$750.6 million https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b9be019b10b3f96abf23d9e1f4b43ff35592b45135df947049c9a0cac68476c8 The River Valley Green (Parcel C) site is expected to yield 470 homes. The River Valley Green (Parcel C) site is expected to yield 470 homes. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/transport-logistics/qantas-fly-special-airbus-jet-first-sydney-london-nonstop The Business Times en 2026-06-18T17:36:24+08:00 Qantas to fly special Airbus jet on first Sydney-London nonstop https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e570db2dd6a42709c531aa6673c83444ac5f7fd3c16b30e99c2757a92302056d Qantas is set to receive its first Airbus A350-1000ULR in April after long delays in building the bespoke jet. The plane can fly more than 20 hours nonstop. Qantas is set to receive its first Airbus A350-1000ULR in April after long delays in building the bespoke jet. The plane can fly more than 20 hours nonstop. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/first-saudi-supertankers-start-crossing-hormuz-after-deal The Business Times en 2026-06-18T17:27:38+08:00 First Saudi supertankers start crossing Hormuz after deal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/37aba78f97abc058ab8ae43634892d58b958acbaa38be8f2e341ee13c2a8d5da Saudi oil supertanker Shaden. Saudi oil supertanker Shaden. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/singapore-reclaims-top-spot-imd-world-competitiveness-ranking-business-efficiency-improves The Business Times en 2026-06-18T17:20:53+08:00 Singapore reclaims top spot in IMD world competitiveness ranking as business efficiency improves https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1b616b51c8c6e64a89bc260170e0b834a040d0b3b42f5a10b9f4c0cc1a5509db IMD said that Singapore’s return to first place “highlights how quickly agile economies can regain momentum”. IMD says Singapore’s return to first place “highlights how quickly agile economies can regain momentum”. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/blackstones-airtrunk-seeks-4-3-billion-loan-sydney-data-centre-project The Business Times en 2026-06-18T17:09:50+08:00 Blackstone’s AirTrunk seeks A$4.3 billion loan for Sydney data centre project https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d8f08cb6eac47545ef6ca6337e42778452532ba6aa423c16ea06a79d14556a91 AirTrunk’s latest deal comes as lenders continue to plow billions of dollars into the sector to fund the AI growth and data centres required to power it. AirTrunk’s latest deal comes as lenders continue to plow billions of dollars into the sector to fund the AI growth and data centres required to power it. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/french-senators-warn-wealth-black-box-tax-system The Business Times en 2026-06-18T17:06:42+08:00 French senators warn of wealth ‘black box’ in tax system https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c956369e5e0db3c1dad25bab65b935246ceef77a0e18e2630fd5484d468ed1f5 The richest 10 per cent in France hold around two-thirds of total wealth, which represents around six times annual economic output compare to three times in 1970. The richest 10 per cent in France hold around two-thirds of total wealth, which represents around six times annual economic output compare to three times in 1970. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/chinas-mid-year-shopping-festival-highlights-weak-demand-rising-role-ai The Business Times en 2026-06-18T16:51:49+08:00 China’s mid-year shopping festival highlights weak demand, rising role of AI https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3c3ec9dcee575f9312213f82223701423076c760e95b7d66246f962a11f5d9bb This year’s event on platforms such as JD.com began in mid-May and will run until Jun 20 or 21 – about 40 days long. This year’s event on platforms such as JD.com began in mid-May and will run until Jun 20 or 21 – about 40 days long. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/evonik-cut-3200-jobs-worldwide-2029-it-extends-restructuring-programme The Business Times en 2026-06-18T16:44:36+08:00 Evonik to cut 3,200 jobs worldwide by 2029, as it extends restructuring programme https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5457e1534711554f5e7b3adca8cf8d6fe96b8570654030a76a86333f127c392b Evonik had already announced cuts of around 2,800 positions until the end of 2026. Evonik had already announced cuts of around 2,800 positions until the end of 2026. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/new-fed-chief-kevin-warsh-hawk-doves-clothing The Business Times en 2026-06-18T16:36:50+08:00 New Fed chief Kevin Warsh a hawk in dove’s clothing? https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/651ec093ffd72b52a2d558c4c2a8479a85fdc225cccf4e651fa4819db6edb12f In Wednesday's press conference, Fed chair Kevin Warsh said that he had ordered reviews of many of the US central bank's practices, including how it measures inflation. Warsh says he has ordered reviews of many of the Fed's practices, including how it measures inflation. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/portugals-ronaldo-does-little-shake-perception-he-yesterdays-man The Business Times en 2026-06-18T16:23:27+08:00 Portugal’s Ronaldo does little to shake the perception he is yesterday’s man https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/81076c6f3bee4261103b295dae2c63c7551c8f27a5b5c6d05960d2f964484dc6 Ronaldo, 41, is at his sixth World Cup, and had two chances to win the game, both of which he put wide from close range. Ronaldo, 41, is at his sixth World Cup and had two chances to win the game against the Democratic Republic of Congo, both of which he put wide from close range. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/south-koreas-kospi-index-tops-9000-chipmakers-hit-records The Business Times en 2026-06-18T16:10:26+08:00 South Korea’s Kospi index tops 9,000 as chipmakers hit records https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/061ba26da98bc239dc8d48cf771e9be48b98f86544f033ff666c3caefebedd6b The benchmark South Korea Composite Stock Price Index (Kospi) jumped 199.60 points, or 2.25%, to close at a new record high at 9,063.84. The benchmark South Korea Composite Stock Price Index (Kospi) jumped 199.60 points, or 2.25%, to close at a new record high at 9,063.84. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/theres-bit-good-news-coral-reefs The Business Times en 2026-06-18T16:09:19+08:00 There’s a bit of good news for coral reefs https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0fedae28f2c57eec075b6a9944802e7db7e16f4040bb6d61d23105916546835c More than 5,800 square miles of climate-resilient ocean in 72 countries has been identified. Cool currents, reduced exposure to sunlight and locations outside cyclone paths mean corals are more likely to survive. More than 15,000 square kilometres of climate-resilient ocean in 72 countries has been identified. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/european-shares-subdued-fed-rate-hike-bets The Business Times en 2026-06-18T15:50:41+08:00 European shares subdued on Fed rate-hike bets https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d82e0c3caf8baa2c817b9560d50165e38c160a12ed7118439558d7b3e89dc50d The European Stoxx 600 index edged 0.15 per cent lower to 638.35 points by 0812 GMT on Thursday. The European Stoxx 600 index edged 0.15 per cent lower to 638.35 points by 0812 GMT on Thursday. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/indonesia-central-bank-raises-rates-25-basis-points The Business Times en 2026-06-18T15:45:14+08:00 Indonesia central bank raises rates by 25 basis points https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1e64c187bc94c4aef21ab57b52bb646ef2fde970506ac0e9ac2faff1f91846e6 BI’s rare off-cycle increase last week reflected mounting urgency to stabilise the rupiah and anchor investor confidence. The move reflected mounting urgency to stabilise the rupiah and anchor investor confidence. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/nikkei-gauge-crosses-71000-us-iran-peace-deal The Business Times en 2026-06-18T15:43:12+08:00 Nikkei gauge crosses 71,000 on US-Iran peace deal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/fd51901585c0d27f88a859554ddf399d9677ded9796f2216b8839a895480aed3 The Nikkei 225 advanced 1.65 per cent to close at 71,053.49 on Thursday. The Nikkei 225 advanced 1.65 per cent to close at 71,053.49 on Thursday. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/consumer-healthcare/top-glove-quarterly-profit-surges-138-cost-control-measures The Business Times en 2026-06-18T15:35:32+08:00 Top Glove quarterly profit surges 138% on cost control measures https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b16171b77e16f9587126b3e349b25d089561c9c49cb065157525d1e8cfd9ba5f Shares of Top Glove have risen 15.5% so far in 2026. Shares of Top Glove have risen 15.5% so far in 2026. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/aramco-seeking-tens-billions-dollars-lines-more-asset-sales-sources The Business Times en 2026-06-18T15:25:47+08:00 Aramco, seeking tens of billions of dollars, lines up more asset sales: sources https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b64b805d87763bb03afa80eed10e6d072ad509e2c49c9f8fde4f5b67ee2d4c7f Aramco aims to be a major global natural gas player, with the US$100 billion Jafurah mega project the centrepiece of its ambitions. Aramco aims to be a major global natural gas player, with the US$100 billion Jafurah mega project the centrepiece of its ambitions. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/orchid-hotel-tanjong-pagar-sold-about-s273-million The Business Times en 2026-06-18T15:17:09+08:00 Orchid Hotel in Tanjong Pagar sold for about S$273 million https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/da226b6e872baad58f6393826a8cab399b68dc029c78d75541633e2b22c4b726 Orchid Hotel in Singapore's Tanjong Pagar area SOURCE: GOOGLE MAPS COPYRIGHT: GOOGLE MAPS CONDITIONS: MUST CREDIT GOOGLE MAPS; ONE-TIME USE AND FOR BT ONLY Orchid Hotel is on levels three to 20 of the 20-storey building at 1 Tras Link. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/uk-wages-grow-faster-expected-three-months-ended-april The Business Times en 2026-06-18T15:12:25+08:00 UK wages grow faster than expected in three months ended April https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0e49e9202dab304683847db08fcc8c4078f366e2815c7218dc9aeba018d63b2d The BOE is closely watching Britain’s job market to see if higher oil prices caused by the Iran war will trigger bigger wage rises. The BOE is closely watching Britain’s job market to see if higher oil prices caused by the Iran war will trigger bigger wage rises. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/asian-currencies-likely-stay-under-pressure-new-fed-regime-keeps-rates-steady The Business Times en 2026-06-18T15:04:27+08:00 Asian currencies likely to stay under pressure as new Fed regime keeps rates steady https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7bad4296b8522508baf15e2a0323d88b7311f124b6b09904518223797695d035 The Fed has kept interest rates unchanged at 3.5% to 3.75% in the first Federal Open Market Committee meeting led by new chair Kevin Warsh. The Fed has kept interest rates unchanged at 3.5% to 3.75% in the first Federal Open Market Committee meeting led by new chair Kevin Warsh. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/trump-says-apple-partner-intel-us-chip-design-production The Business Times en 2026-06-18T15:03:14+08:00 Trump says Apple to partner with Intel on US chip design, production https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c05a77de1a48ecc0633bea8dc9af8ef7b9a0a5e3f5af505322d620bca5783d25 An Apple contract gives Intel a steady demand and boosts both its reputation and its manufacturing business. An Apple contract gives Intel a steady demand and boosts both its reputation and its manufacturing business. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/philippine-central-bank-raises-policy-rate-25-basis-points-expected The Business Times en 2026-06-18T14:53:03+08:00 Philippine central bank raises policy rate by 25 basis points, as expected https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/9a73dbc4a87883b856b518a887244d2dfa412ba78b645c8122f5e676be8b54b6 Twenty of 25 economists in a Reuters poll expected the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to hike its overnight borrowing rate by 25 basis points. Twenty of 25 economists in a Reuters poll expected the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to hike its overnight borrowing rate by 25 basis points. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/us-quietly-allows-waiver-russian-oil-expire The Business Times en 2026-06-18T14:39:46+08:00 US quietly allows waiver on Russian oil to expire https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/10d5b121c44e0310e5caf1ac5a54a12e82cb6be1616c154e38adf89e1a19a611 Russia produces around 10 million barrels of crude per day and about half are exported. During the war on Iran, Trump’s administration waived US sanctions on the Russian oil to help vulnerable economies deal with the energy crisis. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/f1-sponsorship-could-give-byd-lower-risk-route-global-recognition The Business Times en 2026-06-18T14:15:37+08:00 F1 sponsorship could give BYD lower-risk route to global recognition https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1d86b026eeef70e54e72ec75b2092f604657ecf533833615ff43efd866f7dc40 Being a sponsor could avoid regulatory issues and is cheaper for BYD to get involved in F1. Being a sponsor could avoid regulatory issues and is cheaper for BYD to get involved in F1. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/inflation-energy-markets-whats-next-after-us-iran-peace-deal The Business Times en 2026-06-18T14:04:47+08:00 Inflation, energy, markets: What’s next after US-Iran peace deal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b41247db9cf95fdf69cb5e81901c036b8800d2d60fbe6f81a71929ab9c205700 A man holds an Iranian flag on a street, after U.S. and Iranian officials said they had reached a deal to end their war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, in Tehran, Iran, June 15, 2026. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency) via REUTERS ATTENTION EDITORS - THIS PICTURE WAS PROVIDED BY A THIRD PARTY. ISRAEL OUT. NO COMMERCIAL OR EDITORIAL SALES IN ISRAEL. NO ACCESS FOR ISRAELI MEDIA. NO USE BBC PERSIAN. NO USE VOA PERSIAN. NO USE MANOTO. NO USE IRAN INTERNATIONAL. NO USE RADIO FARDA. DIGITAL: NO USE BBC PERSIAN. NO USE VOA PERSIAN. NO USE MANOTO. NO USE IRAN INTERNATIONAL. NO USE RADIO FARDA. Goldman Sachs expects oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz to recover to about 70% of their pre-war level. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/asian-refiners-brace-surge-persian-gulf-oil-after-us-iran-ceasefire-agreement The Business Times en 2026-06-18T13:56:40+08:00 Asian refiners brace for surge in Persian Gulf oil after US-Iran ceasefire agreement https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3b641c14d5b06c8f2da3c0553d2b31c5b2b525753288cea21869daf2accdab86 Refiners are trying to bring supply to market ahead of a full reopening of Hormuz, which may tank prices, traders says. Refiners are trying to bring supply to market ahead of a full reopening of Hormuz, which may tank prices, traders says. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/consumer-healthcare/starbucks-add-100-india-stores-year-coffee-booms The Business Times en 2026-06-18T13:30:27+08:00 Starbucks to add up to 100 India stores a year as coffee booms https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/396d6b1dc0b7ddbd84f4584ccccf0326553b9e7f13cefb0f047aa6638af3bebf Tata Starbucks operates multiple formats including drive-throughs, highway stores, kiosks and experiential locations, as well as four Reserve stores offering premium coffees. Tata Starbucks is a joint venture between the Seattle-based coffee giant and India’s Tata Group . https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/esg/singapore-companies-expected-show-net-zero-progress-under-revised-standards-instead-just-set-targets The Business Times en 2026-06-18T13:00:00+08:00 Singapore companies expected to show net-zero progress under revised standards, instead of just set targets https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/566e734552a8aa038a7fc9bf02ec87e355a078b4f9041ba04cfa95d5079e5815 The new framework would make the standards more accessible for smaller companies, and may even encourage adoption among those who found the previous framework too demanding, says an observer. The new framework would make the standards more accessible for smaller companies, says an observer. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/transport-logistics/hormuz-oil-flows-may-recover-only-70-after-iran-war-goldman The Business Times en 2026-06-18T12:55:10+08:00 Hormuz oil flows may recover to only 70% after Iran war: Goldman https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e98b3ad2e79f37b7777b2b0ec28c534fa72b35f0963b53444ea9106dda8627a8 During the hostilities, regional producers have made increased use of infrastructure that avoided the Hormuz chokepoint During the hostilities, regional producers have made increased use of infrastructure that avoided the Hormuz chokepoint https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/europe-tries-take-china-without-launching-new-trade-war The Business Times en 2026-06-18T12:51:51+08:00 Europe tries to take on China without launching a new trade war https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/122a968ce4e67715f1ccc604829ac10fcb57b2c2be8ffb485f3a5ac7fcc5bdef China’s newest five-year economic plan issued in March also leaves little doubt that Beijing will continue to foster its manufacturing sector. The EU is worried on multiple fronts: from a trade deficit with China that now exceeds one billion euros a day to Beijing’s stranglehold on critical minerals and chips. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/hong-kongs-sogo-department-store-refinances-loan-last-minute The Business Times en 2026-06-18T12:01:07+08:00 Hong Kong’s Sogo department store refinances loan at last minute https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/28cb658d1e16eb2dbc96be82ec0ca44ebf384dbad704d9119fd3ab7d82723724 Sogo malls, especially the flagship Causeway Bay one, have long been among Hong Kong’s prime retail destinations. Hong Kong’s retail sector has continued to grapple with strains even as green shoots appear, in contrast to a broader rebound in the residential housing market. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/indonesia-philippines-set-hike-rates-caution-prevails-bloomberg-survey The Business Times en 2026-06-18T11:33:19+08:00 Indonesia, Philippines set to hike rates as caution prevails: Bloomberg survey https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/29a5535d5df5c470eb59474412bebccc4d84739177fc1e4094fac73a344f4165 Bank Indonesia will likely raise its benchmark BI-Rate by 25 basis points to 5.75%, according to a Bloomberg survey. Bank Indonesia will likely raise its benchmark BI-Rate by 25 basis points to 5.75%, according to a Bloomberg survey. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/japan-intervention-risk-mounts-yen-drops-lowest-2024 The Business Times en 2026-06-18T11:29:18+08:00 Japan intervention risk mounts as yen drops to lowest since 2024 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5b44041339f83a91e4b12ef33254f0969ae80f4fa093dd8de25efc3bed98e7c0 The yen has been under pressure from the wide interest-rate gap between the US and Japan. The latest move in the currency also comes despite a record 11.7 trillion yen intervention by authorities from Apr 28 to May 2. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/electricity-tariff-rise-significantly-july-despite-iran-deal-ema The Business Times en 2026-06-18T11:16:38+08:00 Electricity tariff to rise significantly from July despite Iran deal: EMA https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a3f23513b38d2a628e564759929fee8bc7f1c4b1e81817375dc09ded54022763 About 63% of households in Singapore pay for their electricity consumption through the regulated tariff. About 63% of households in Singapore pay for their electricity consumption through the regulated tariff. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/consumer-healthcare/lululemon-apologises-after-great-wall-drum-sparks-china-backlash The Business Times en 2026-06-18T11:11:16+08:00 Lululemon apologises after Great Wall drum sparks China backlash https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/63a5bf2e56493c633e77dfd32ef9ba082339080f51d191b65003205a51b8887b Lululemon’s shares have tumbled about 46% so far in 2026. Lululemon’s shares have tumbled about 46% so far in 2026. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/can-vietnams-small-business-backbone-survive-compliance-squeeze-all-once The Business Times en 2026-06-18T11:04:54+08:00 Can Vietnam’s small-business backbone survive compliance squeeze – all at once? https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1b7bd8986af7be77e73ca99120f0ed84b6f6610c23e6f6718294326d32fd737c Vietnam had an estimated 6.1 million household businesses, while informal employment stood at 33.1 million people, or 63.1 per cent of total employment. Practices that once helped small businesses in Vietnam stay flexible and competitive in a low-margin economy are increasingly becoming formal business risks. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/apple-raise-prices-due-memory-chip-shortage-ceo-cook The Business Times en 2026-06-18T10:23:49+08:00 Apple to raise prices due to memory chip shortage: CEO Cook https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d85437f9231381882e36b989dc62bbc2566f06a9c4b46f2905a5f978424a1228 “Unfortunately, price increases are unavoidable,” Apple CEO Tim Cook told WSJ. “Unfortunately, price increases are unavoidable,” Apple CEO Tim Cook told WSJ. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/transport-logistics/kkr-bets-us1-4-billion-aircraft-leasing-boeing-and-airbus-supply-shortages-boost-demand The Business Times en 2026-06-18T10:20:45+08:00 KKR bets US$1.4 billion on aircraft leasing as Boeing and Airbus supply shortages boost demand https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/73a6901a0691f55bf622c7a0191da81fba3e65636ac7edc63c1a1a40e2134711 Airlines now lease or rent, rather than own about half of the global fleet, with KKR having invested more than US$12 billion in aviation since 2015. Airlines now lease or rent, rather than own about half of the global fleet, with KKR having invested more than US$12 billion in aviation since 2015. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/hillhouse-seeks-us600-million-loan-fund-data-centre-operator-dayone-investment-sources The Business Times en 2026-06-18T10:08:19+08:00 Hillhouse seeks US$600 million loan to fund data centre operator DayOne investment: sources https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/eba4d0a779af3f7ac18d39e547df61e1f719556a178897225672f1dd60b1f262 DayOne has raised over US$4.5 billion in the final close of its Series C round. DayOne is already in talks with banks to increase an existing loan facility for its Malaysian operations to as much as US$7 billion. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/transport-logistics/singapores-carro-enters-australia-market-acquisition-used-car-platform-carplace The Business Times en 2026-06-18T10:00:00+08:00 Singapore’s Carro enters Australia market with acquisition of used-car platform CarPlace https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f7095391c81c864db8528aba451ba16aef2132eb73733a4541306d3d03b87858 Aaron Tan, co-founder and CEO of Carro, notes that Australia is “one of the largest used-car markets” in the Asia-Pacific. Aaron Tan, co-founder and CEO of Carro, notes that Australia is “one of the largest used-car markets” in the Asia-Pacific. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/australia-probes-private-credit-lenders-warns-valuations The Business Times en 2026-06-18T09:50:54+08:00 Australia probes private credit lenders, warns on valuations https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/90d8503e349e98da97436de6953df9eedb29e6b62a5724edbbb4227f2dcb5292 Despite signs that some institutional investors are cooling on the asset class, industry titans this month pushed back on that narrative at a major European conference. Despite signs that some institutional investors are cooling on the asset class, industry titans this month pushed back on that narrative at a major European conference. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/palm-oil-stocks-set-surge-indonesia-said-be-scaling-back-export-overhaul-analysts The Business Times en 2026-06-18T09:44:34+08:00 Palm oil stocks set to surge as Indonesia said to be scaling back export overhaul: analysts https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5d758fbfd6fe090f089d44fd44e1f5b56c15ae2394bbdc5fa5209cb0b4d50175 The onset of El Nino is also seen as a tailwind, as average crude palm oil prices have historically surged during the weather event. The onset of El Nino is also seen as a tailwind, as average crude palm oil prices have historically surged during the weather event. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/hsbcs-australia-unit-pay-35-million-fine-over-scam-protection-failures-court-rules The Business Times en 2026-06-18T09:41:21+08:00 HSBC’s Australia unit to pay A$35 million fine over scam protection failures, court rules https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a5d9cc02f6da440e36e02ccdcbd83466066339aafdc4081388e358bf35f643ce The regulator found that HSBC failed to maintain adequate controls over its internal transfer systems between May 2023 and May 2024. The regulator found that HSBC failed to maintain adequate controls over its internal transfer systems between May 2023 and May 2024. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/malaysia-and-russia-weigh-using-ruble-ringgit-boost-trade The Business Times en 2026-06-18T09:32:03+08:00 Malaysia and Russia weigh using ruble, ringgit to boost trade https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a22563aadf375d5a977e4c681b915dc1ca0aeaa293606c9f990c602911565139 Russian President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim (left) during an official welcoming ceremony for Russia-Asean Summit in Kazan. Russian President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim (left) during an official welcoming ceremony for Russia-Asean Summit in Kazan. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/missiles-arent-problem-trump-blows-through-his-iran-red-lines-justifying-peace-deal The Business Times en 2026-06-18T09:25:53+08:00 ‘Missiles aren’t the problem’: Trump blows through his Iran red lines in justifying peace deal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/82f5ee0a2907214be3a7da23cf5a002e37d8aeb632a4149a0733d99211179636 Iran hawks lamented Trump’s new vision, while some of the president’s most vehement critics cheered. Iran hawks lamented Trump’s new vision, while some of the president’s most vehement critics cheered. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/ai-will-lead-labour-shortages-amazon-founder-bezos-says The Business Times en 2026-06-18T09:18:39+08:00 AI will lead to labour shortages, Amazon founder Bezos says https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/499a3bfe475838df138dc218d66a83a75ad0b2727d7b93e670fad2fda3e671fd Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon and Blue Origin, and co-founder and co-CEO of Prometheus, gestures as he speaks during the 10th edition of the VivaTech technology startups and innovation fair in Paris, France, June 17, 2026. REUTERS/Abdul Saboor Amazon founder Jeff Bezos argued that people have “endless” things to do, and are currently limited by barriers that he said AI would lower. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/elon-musks-next-move-may-be-megamerger-spacex-and-tesla The Business Times en 2026-06-18T09:13:53+08:00 Elon Musk’s next move may be a megamerger of SpaceX and Tesla https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/77e05ac4e8d844903629670bdf0c18d8e16d5bc7892511a26fd232b33a0f5d72 Tesla and SpaceX have long had some of the same people on their boards, many of whom have long friendships or business relationships with Musk. The two companies have long shared executives and other resources and are jointly developing multibillion-dollar projects. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/hong-kong-auto-show-china-automakers-target-wealthy-right-hand-drive-markets The Business Times en 2026-06-18T08:59:01+08:00 At Hong Kong auto show, China automakers to target wealthy in right-hand-drive markets https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d3570661f534b7737cd50fff52cfd2232581fb489c8e2077283e39aeacab8986 FAW’s Hongqi will debut its right-hand-drive flagship electric SUV, the E-HS9, along with a new luxury SUV at the Hong Kong auto show. FAW’s Hongqi will debut its right-hand-drive flagship electric SUV, the E-HS9, along with a new luxury SUV at the Hong Kong auto show. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/chinas-2-2-trillion-yuan-pile-bad-consumer-debt-threatens-economy The Business Times en 2026-06-18T08:35:58+08:00 China’s 2.2 trillion yuan pile of bad consumer debt threatens economy https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c541b24e913814f2f1091f0328863759d07ce32befb2c23894629ff0fa93388d The debt overhang is undermining national efforts to boost domestic consumption, with Chinese banks extending fewer new loans. China’s household debt has nearly tripled over the past decade to about 83 trillion yuan. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/stocks-watch-centurion-far-east-group The Business Times en 2026-06-18T08:22:58+08:00 Stocks to watch: Centurion, Far East Group https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b310bcf1e9cfb4d09b9b22f93c783b571e5b23a287c6252f9dfafd9690d999e2 Centurion has acquired 25% equity interest in a purpose-built student accommodation development in Perth for A$250,000 (S$225,475). Centurion has acquired 25% equity interest in a purpose-built student accommodation development in Perth for A$250,000 (S$225,475). https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/consumer-healthcare/onitsuka-tiger-pivots-asics-stripes-tap-luxury-market The Business Times en 2026-06-18T08:07:47+08:00 Onitsuka Tiger pivots from Asics stripes to tap luxury market https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/824ec820306cf50b43cec91bb226eeafd3c873b23ddb9ac87e16389fc21ef01c OT Group CEO Ryoji Shoda says that his luxury plans for Onitsuka Tiger will not necessarily come with a price hike. OT Group CEO Ryoji Shoda says that his luxury plans for Onitsuka Tiger will not necessarily come with a price hike. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/microsoft-makes-big-ai-inroads-china-selling-openai-models The Business Times en 2026-06-18T07:33:03+08:00 Microsoft makes big AI inroads in China by selling OpenAI models https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a4063c74f796abeb18e44ba7d37ad098d7dcf79dce7bc3f1cacab5532c6bcda7 To sell products in China, Microsoft must partner with local providers. To sell products in China, Microsoft must partner with local providers. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/future-orchard-road-rests-having-cohesive-vision The Business Times en 2026-06-18T07:15:00+08:00 The future of Orchard Road rests on having a cohesive vision https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1d5bb771ed9446f8f1f85f4b48c0293d748f57148d0a1761b7ba47b9d24e08e7 Even though weekdays may appear quiet, with only a handful of customers in the shops, crowds throng Orchard Road on Saturdays and Sundays. Even though weekdays may appear quiet, with only a handful of customers in the shops, crowds throng Orchard Road on Saturdays and Sundays. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/esg/singapores-construction-sector-goes-green-portable-power-banks-are-leading-charge The Business Times en 2026-06-18T07:00:00+08:00 As Singapore’s construction sector goes green, portable ‘power banks’ are leading the charge https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/675c678dfe54f1d7c3aa360a258bec928d1ffadefded496493d39a8c01db5e5a The EH-ONE+ battery energy storage system by Singapore clean-energy firm GoRental allows for decentralised power use on construction sites. GoRental’s EH-ONE+ battery energy storage system allows for decentralised, clean power use on construction sites. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/why-middle-management-isnt-safe-ai-displacement The Business Times en 2026-06-18T07:00:00+08:00 Why middle management isn’t ‘safe’ from AI displacement https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/972ca078e56db4575fd8e63b31df1d34c9d9688e5195322b3e8a5fbae0daf874 When a job is restructured out of existence, the worker loses the career infrastructure, professional identity and forward momentum that was built around the role. When a job is restructured out of existence, the worker loses the career infrastructure, professional identity and forward momentum that was built around the role. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/circular-water-economies-will-power-south-east-asias-growth-story The Business Times en 2026-06-18T07:00:00+08:00 Circular water economies will power South-east Asia’s growth story https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d9b5a77b4a13799d5f1281e9ae0b1c990ccc390680fb440acb27a2f453298885 Through its NEWater programme, Singapore has transformed treated wastewater into high-grade reclaimed water suitable for potable and industrial uses. Through its NEWater programme, Singapore has transformed treated wastewater into high-grade reclaimed water suitable for potable and industrial uses. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/smes/cr-interiors-building-legacy-office-furniture The Business Times en 2026-06-18T07:00:00+08:00 C&R Interiors: building a legacy in office furniture https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/990c258eeb97b540b08d24b07d2f26e1cf922169257fdbbfd72fc69d1c75b0b5 C&R Interiors pivoted away from custom residential projects towards commercial “system furniture”, which includes workstations and partitions. C&R Interiors has pivoted away from custom residential projects towards commercial “system furniture”, which includes workstations and partitions. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/gold-advances-peace-deal-optimism-counters-hawkish-us-fed The Business Times en 2026-06-18T06:57:47+08:00 Gold advances as peace deal optimism counters hawkish US Fed https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/351a96fbdaad9a7b062ba8543acf7716cab6a4fb2c03893eaaad9113aabf23f4 Gold rebounded this week after an interim US-Iran deal was announced over the weekend. Higher interest rates are a headwind for precious metals, which do not pay interest. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/focus-turns-strait-hormuz-after-us-and-iran-presidents-sign-ceasefire-agreement The Business Times en 2026-06-18T06:53:28+08:00 Focus turns to Strait of Hormuz after US and Iran presidents sign ceasefire agreement https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d7ad792dcb96fbb6347996ab7073432786906b3af7f27be1d6cfa411bf2c4715 The MOU was signed digitally by the presidents of both nations, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmail Baghaei said on state television. Iran has also agreed to the on-site “down-blending” of its stockpile of enriched uranium under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/us-iran-deal-foreign-policy-realism-work The Business Times en 2026-06-18T06:30:00+08:00 The US-Iran deal is foreign policy realism at work https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/662d99020e9f2fa270ba07cf4c0930ea2d563cfc658c9928c626e289a7b928fe The US-Iran MOU aims to restore shipping through Hormuz and buy time for negotiations over unresolved nuclear questions. The US-Iran MOU aims to restore shipping through Hormuz and buy time for negotiations over unresolved nuclear questions. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/wall-street-sinks-bets-fed-will-hike-rates-2026 The Business Times en 2026-06-18T06:24:47+08:00 Wall Street sinks on bets Fed will hike rates in 2026 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/edcd8fdb6109c0e76abbccab27363affd0f0b334ed122840241abd58b47d0d33 Wall Street’s main indexes had rallied sharply from Thursday through Monday as oil prices fell after Trump announced a preliminary US-Iran peace deal. Wall Street’s main indexes had rallied sharply from Thursday through Monday as oil prices fell after Trump announced a preliminary US-Iran peace deal. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/oil-falls-2-after-us-iran-ceasefire-agreement-erasing-almost-all-war-related-gains The Business Times en 2026-06-18T06:17:21+08:00 Oil falls 2% after US-Iran ceasefire agreement, erasing almost all war-related gains https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2151e07479756c0a33060961b8c9a5c46e2c0f2669dcf5cd5e135aacda6290af Shipowners are preparing for the reopening of the strait by repositioning vessels towards the Middle East. US oil sanctions must now be lifted immediately, according to Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/european-shares-end-higher-markets-await-iran-deal-details-fed-policy-bmw-slides The Business Times en 2026-06-18T06:00:28+08:00 European shares end higher as markets await Iran deal details, Fed policy; BMW slides https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b9ba74267370c3c53a94de5094de347d593269b2dc757acb879e599ece763cb4 The pan-European Stoxx 600 index closed 0.5% higher, in its fifth session of gains. The pan-European Stoxx 600 index closed 0.5% higher, in its fifth session of gains. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/vietnam-workers-keenest-ai-south-east-asia-singapore-employees-among-most-sceptical-survey The Business Times en 2026-06-18T06:00:00+08:00 Vietnam workers keenest on AI in South-east Asia; Singapore employees among most sceptical: survey https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/840ad742fa02ee9fc44b801de5755323f1daa1b36ba8c3919553c5054a5ae095 Vietnam has the highest rate of generative AI usage among the South-east Asian markets surveyed, with 36% of workers saying they used such tools “nearly every day”. Vietnam has the highest rate of generative AI usage among the South-east Asian markets surveyed, with 36% of workers saying they used such tools “nearly every day”. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/kevin-warsh-kicks-us-fed-chief-tenure-sweeping-review-rates-remain-unchanged The Business Times en 2026-06-18T05:39:05+08:00 Kevin Warsh kicks off US Fed chief tenure with sweeping review as rates remain unchanged https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/9329261724787778bf4e522ceca226e6d97db9a6ab16535a94cd885d9fa1fcfa Kevin Warsh, who took over as Fed chief last month, made an immediate imprint in organising a unanimous consensus around a stripped-down policy statement. Kevin Warsh, who took over as Fed chief last month, made an immediate imprint in organising a unanimous consensus around a stripped-down policy statement. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/us-pending-home-sales-see-biggest-gain-september-2024 The Business Times en 2026-06-17T23:06:52+08:00 US pending home sales see biggest gain since September 2024 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0c84483bd29b341687782b13cdb66bfdcbd5e5b6bc5ef4bc11763a0192837e7b The gain marks the fourth straight monthly increase, adding to signs of improvement in the housing market. The gain marks the fourth straight monthly increase, adding to signs of improvement in the housing market. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/bbc-cut-550-jobs-cost-saving-drive The Business Times en 2026-06-17T22:15:39+08:00 BBC to cut 550 jobs in cost-saving drive https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3a6e3049f30b4e53701721039021f97a5ca62384598408f7ba669e4404acc141 the cuts form part of wider plans to reduce around 2,000 jobs over three years, with BBC News expected to be hit hardest. The cuts form part of wider plans to reduce around 2,000 jobs over three years, with BBC News expected to be hit hardest. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/us-stocks-open-higher-spotlight-fed The Business Times en 2026-06-17T21:43:30+08:00 US stocks open higher, spotlight on Fed https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/25a5fc96c59d26410ae771691bb92cdb06233b135975d8bea17c8fedeeb3715d The S&P 500 gained 8.44 points, or 0.11 per cent, to 7,519.79 and the Nasdaq Composite gained 113.22 points, or 0.43 per cent, to 26,489.56. The S&P 500 gained 8.44 points, or 0.11 per cent, to 7,519.79 and the Nasdaq Composite gained 113.22 points, or 0.43 per cent, to 26,489.56. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/us-retail-sales-rise-more-forecast-broad-advance The Business Times en 2026-06-17T21:34:30+08:00 US retail sales rise more than forecast in broad advance https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/32f732a482a10a701d79b768b183695dff25e4d3cdb2bea89df04439a2edd6cd Companies have also noted surprising strength in demand, with big-box retailers including Target and Walmart signalling shoppers are resilient despite years of elevated inflation. Companies have also noted surprising strength in demand, with big-box retailers including Target and Walmart signalling shoppers are resilient despite years of elevated inflation. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/uk-orders-google-improve-search-transparency-boost-competition The Business Times en 2026-06-17T21:00:37+08:00 UK orders Google to improve search transparency to boost competition https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/57228bdd72f26e21da9083a5331f9d38201291d887d8ce7086c4c74f72a3b1c7 Google faces increasing regulatory scrutiny across the world, including in the United States and the European Union. Google faces increasing regulatory scrutiny across the world, including in the United States and the European Union. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/australias-asx-proposes-25-cap-share-issuance-m-without-shareholder-vote The Business Times en 2026-06-17T20:56:52+08:00 Australia’s ASX proposes 25% cap on share issuance in M&A without shareholder vote https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a1e019ed421a82a5a8cb37642412f267daa10187ec89be7fca96a3f97d00e4db The ASX launched a review in 2025, after James Hardie was exempted from a shareholder vote when it issued about 35% of its shares to fund a takeover. The ASX launched a review in 2025, after James Hardie was exempted from a shareholder vote when it issued about 35% of its shares to fund a takeover. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/eurozone-wage-growth-quicken-second-half-year The Business Times en 2026-06-17T20:52:49+08:00 Eurozone wage growth to quicken in second half of this year https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6199a12d981e9dc2c5fefecfc26a16afb35437eae1395befab90050404613dc4 European Central Bank officials have cautioned that it will take months for the oil supply to get back to normal. European Central Bank officials have cautioned that it will take months for the oil supply to get back to normal. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/indonesia-bets-creative-economy-ip-growth-amid-rising-global-competition The Business Times en 2026-06-17T20:01:50+08:00 Indonesia bets on creative economy, IP for growth amid rising global competition https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2353e28ba58b9bd8bfec96899fd635ceed23ce802b89c2caed855f956213087a Muhammad Neil El Himam (left) from Indonesia’s Ministry of Creative Economy speaks with Lianhe Zaobao’s Nam Yunzhou at the second Asia Economic Summit. Muhammad Neil El Himam (left) from Indonesia’s Ministry of Creative Economy speaks with Lianhe Zaobao’s Nam Yunzhou at the second Asia Economic Summit. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/singapore-advance-ai-agenda-asean-chair-focus-cross-border-data-flows-smaller-firms The Business Times en 2026-06-17T20:00:19+08:00 Singapore to advance AI agenda as Asean chair, focus on cross-border data flows, smaller firms https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/9ed5f37fc67c5c138e573fed006525c3fb7c53e3fb3cbfccbffa1f3f85cbe694 Singapore also intends to deepen cross-border data flow mechanisms, said Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo. Singapore also intends to deepen cross-border data flow mechanisms, says Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/centurion-acquires-25-stake-second-student-accommodation-perth-250000 The Business Times en 2026-06-17T19:39:22+08:00 Centurion acquires 25% stake in second student accommodation in Perth for A$250,000 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b310bcf1e9cfb4d09b9b22f93c783b571e5b23a287c6252f9dfafd9690d999e2 The 182-bed property is located in Fairway, Perth, and is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2027. The Fairway development is part of Centurion's growing student accommodation pipeline. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/singapore-taking-baby-steps-nutrition-label-ai-apps-voluntary-roll-out-asean-engagement The Business Times en 2026-06-17T19:30:38+08:00 Singapore taking first steps on ‘nutrition label’ for AI apps with voluntary roll-out, Asean engagement https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8db712cc38a793c27f1b306796fe762f28d2df7b92a98e679ab2b4d3e2a4fc3f From left: Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid; Singapore's Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo; and Tech in Asia's Terence Lee. From left: Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid; Singapore's Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo; and Tech in Asia's Terence Lee. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/singapore-shares-close-higher-sti-1-2 The Business Times en 2026-06-17T19:17:49+08:00 Singapore shares close higher; STI up 1.2% https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e4ec74c52f9b9ecc9af265d226e3d88a451dc7180a60ef179f4d1d7ab0b8b9dd Sats leads the gainers on Singapore’s blue-chip index, rising 3.2% or S$0.13 to S$4.18. Sats leads the gainers on Singapore’s blue-chip index, rising 3.2% or S$0.13 to S$4.18. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/fall-coe-prices-across-board-suggests-car-commercial-vehicle-premiums-hitting-resistance-level The Business Times en 2026-06-17T19:08:24+08:00 Fall in COE prices across board suggests car, commercial vehicle premiums hitting resistance level https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/80f401d2a3b30e9f143604c7142dffbad56fdfe24214e763b3f7133b837f9df3 Car dealers say that COE demand in June tailed off in the wake of The Car Expo, which took place in early May. Car dealers say that demand in June tailed off in the wake of The Car Expo, which took place in early May. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/transport-logistics/teo-siong-seng-singamas-sued-us-firms-start-class-action-over-us-container-price-fixing-indictments The Business Times en 2026-06-17T18:55:31+08:00 Teo Siong Seng, Singamas sued by US firms in start of class action over US container price-fixing indictments https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0298f8c3e63ac973e3d091c6632cdf5c7126e3cb8549fcac496b10f451a49dff Singamas Container is accused of fixing prices of containers in an alleged cartel. Singamas Container is accused of fixing prices of containers in an alleged cartel. 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 In the last round of bidding, the premium for Category B was S$980 more than that for Category A. In the last round of bidding, the premium for Category B was S$980 more than that for Category A. 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 that 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-towards-overnight-policy-rate-match-global-peers The Business Times en 2026-06-17T11:56:32+08:00 China’s central bank hints at shift towards 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/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/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/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