https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/esg/whos-powering-next-gen-nuclear-energy-ai-boom-drives-hybrid-financing-wave The Business Times en 2026-05-26T13:00:00+08:00 Who’s powering next-gen nuclear energy: AI boom drives hybrid financing wave https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/228c0021088737d9f150e1ac805894cc5f62cece4ba1db88bd6ec638b4d56bc8 While solar and wind are the most mature and commercially viable clean energy sources, they are intermittent sources of power and often require battery storage to mitigate that problem.  While solar and wind are the most mature and commercially viable clean energy sources, they are intermittent sources of power.  https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/india-and-china-surge-ahead-nuclear-energy-all-eyes-aseans-next-move The Business Times en 2026-05-26T13:00:00+08:00 As India and China surge ahead with nuclear energy, all eyes on Asean’s next move https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/015a086cef0be12db3c9f18beeba937f8a226f843c7811a5a9603bf6b5812749 Nuclear power “is very much back in the conversation” in Asia, says one expert. Nuclear power “is very much back in the conversation” in Asia, say industry observers. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/economy-policy/singapore-factory-output-17-6-april-ai-related-electronics-surge-beating-forecasts The Business Times en 2026-05-26T13:00:00+08:00 Singapore factory output up 17.6% in April on AI-related electronics surge, beating forecasts https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f3bd1e0b0b4691e61f5edbeffe823ff84909907143cc71511b63ef5e57a40807 X The linchpin electronics sector surged 44 per cent for the month, extending March’s 29 per cent rise. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/smes/enterprisesg-imda-launch-refreshed-retail-industry-digital-plan-help-retailers-adopt-ai The Business Times en 2026-05-26T12:44:57+08:00 EnterpriseSG, IMDA launch refreshed Retail Industry Digital Plan to help retailers adopt AI https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6ce261cf054837bd33c8aa6617f4733375af405d21b0add6d32593efd84274b4 The refreshed IDP was developed jointly by EnterpriseSG and the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry Low Yen Ling says the aim is to “build a retail sector that is vibrant, competitive, and future-ready”. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/why-china-tightening-controls-overseas-stock-trading The Business Times en 2026-05-26T12:17:27+08:00 Why China is tightening controls on overseas stock trading https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/19380458769eb7199f6f907a17007be225684cd637ce313cb6e440731fe97851 The CSRC is leading the effort, along with the National Financial Regulatory Administration, which handles consumer protection and supervises banks. The CSRC is leading the effort, along with the National Financial Regulatory Administration, which handles consumer protection and supervises banks. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/mufg-explores-options-stake-indonesias-danamon-including-take-private-deal-sources The Business Times en 2026-05-26T12:17:14+08:00 MUFG explores options for stake in Indonesia’s Danamon including take-private deal: sources https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e97fc84cde9e4ec1cc0a5b8f2cea78a47208dfb265f733c1b0762adcff3ad00c MUFG owns about 92.5% of Danamon, which has a market value of almost 47 trillion rupiah. MUFG owns about 92.5% of Danamon, which has a market value of almost 47 trillion rupiah. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/property-group-lee-kim-tah-reaches-settlement-ex-director-ongoing-misconduct-probe The Business Times en 2026-05-26T12:00:00+08:00 Property group Lee Kim Tah reaches settlement with ex-director in ongoing misconduct probe https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/62151157aa5227189ffa6d7ae8bd7a900d304604740e6ed6c3cb011c6a28c072 LKT commenced proceedings in the Singapore High Court against Edmund Cheah in May 2025, alleging breaches of fiduciary duties and duties of fidelity. LKT commenced proceedings in the Singapore High Court against Edmund Cheah in May 2025, alleging breaches of fiduciary duties and duties of fidelity. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/canberra-drive-executive-condo-site-first-test-market-after-ec-rules-tightened The Business Times en 2026-05-26T11:28:01+08:00 Canberra Drive executive condo site is first to test market after EC rules tightened https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/cdb8abf426f0c8a4f745bc50be92aad87fd3ae28932a350baa830a7e36a28fd7 Spanning about 11,535 sq m, the parcel can yield about 185 units. Spanning about 11,535 sq m, the parcel can yield about 185 units. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/cpf-interest-rates-hold-steady-q3 The Business Times en 2026-05-26T11:16:00+08:00 CPF interest rates to hold steady in Q3 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/46a34b50aa2efb2ef442b35894a8f3c28f95a44e612405c8621729d524b11cf1 The concessionary interest rate for HDB housing loans, which is pegged at 0.1 per cent above the OA rate, will remain unchanged at 2.6 per cent a year. The concessionary interest rate for HDB housing loans will remain unchanged at 2.6% a year. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/johor-property-old-hand-ksl-readies-family-handover-amid-market-boom The Business Times en 2026-05-26T11:03:58+08:00 Johor property old hand KSL readies family handover amid market boom https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f8e0d67f164ab35118898efa6a2fdf2a9d6ce776b8a511af7bab42e3cf1950a0 Khoo Lee Feng, whose academic background seems far removed from her work as executive director of KSL, says it is “not so much what you study, but how you learn”. KSL's Khoo Lee Feng says it is "not so much what you study, but how you learn". https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/consumer-healthcare/starbucks-korea-top-executives-apologise-tank-day-promotion-boycott-hits-revenue The Business Times en 2026-05-26T11:00:45+08:00 Starbucks Korea top executives apologise as as ‘Tank Day’ promotion boycott hits revenue https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b405812dc801dc10cfc8d9c9699dccb2e6087f0e6723b37f074ed12604eede36 Starbucks stores in downtown Seoul were noticeably quieter over the weekend. Starbucks stores in downtown Seoul were noticeably quieter over the weekend. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/taiwan-overtakes-india-worlds-fifth-largest-stock-market The Business Times en 2026-05-26T10:44:30+08:00 Taiwan overtakes India as world’s fifth-largest stock market https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e741c8b7c0b134ce042be0b2a44df39a339537c66a5e6c894d279a1f98bb6382 Global funds have sold nearly US$24 billion of local equities so far this year as they chased the AI boom in Taiwan and South Korea. Taiwan’s stock market is now the fifth largest in the world, behind only the US, mainland China, Japan and Hong Kong. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/indonesian-sovereign-wealth-fund-ina-joins-data-centre-boom The Business Times en 2026-05-26T10:36:55+08:00 Indonesian sovereign wealth fund INA joins the data centre boom https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/af90bbb532a818888734452aa7481342c91c279b634669825df87c6473b5e935 More than three years into a bull market fuelled by excitement about AI, two key pillars remain intact: Big Tech profit growth continues to outpace the rest of the market, and the flow of money into AI infrastructure keeps growing. INA’s commitment to AI infrastructure underscores a global rush to invest in data centres and other beneficiaries of the machine- learning revolution. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/iran-signals-potential-easing-internet-blackout-amid-us-talks The Business Times en 2026-05-26T10:10:57+08:00 Iran signals potential easing of Internet blackout amid US talks https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3a77fafb840cc8160f549ab5c27e8d4d510637708bd1456e5990d14b48d4a6ef Millions of people inside Iran have relied on virtual private networks or been steered towards domestic, state-controlled alternatives. Millions of people inside Iran have relied on virtual private networks or been steered towards domestic, state-controlled alternatives. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/shares-sats-6-4-after-posting-rise-q4-earnings The Business Times en 2026-05-26T09:51:40+08:00 Shares of Sats up 6.4% after posting rise in Q4 earnings https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a947a3668a0204a53e9cc7f1df92a65e8bdf7411b57cf7d923c55882d9298df0 Sats' Q4 revenue stands at S$1.6 billion, up 9.8% year on year from S$1.5 billion. Sats' Q4 revenue stands at S$1.6 billion, up 9.8% year on year from S$1.5 billion. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/firms-must-help-staff-plan-ai-job-cuts-become-inevitable-top-australia-banker-says The Business Times en 2026-05-26T09:50:59+08:00 Firms must help staff plan as AI job cuts become inevitable, top Australia banker says https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/9542ce0cfdb943a3854eefd7d42f51a0a185fbc0cba1895b8aa7f0ce5dcad93a CBA has emerged as a tech leader among Australian banks, forging an investment with Anthropic alongside ties to OpenAI. CBA has emerged as a tech leader among Australian banks, forging an investment with Anthropic alongside ties to OpenAI. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/gold-slips-strikes-raise-concerns-iran-talks-inflation The Business Times en 2026-05-26T09:05:43+08:00 Gold slips as strikes raise concerns on Iran talks, inflation https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8719422f2deca455a23299f97d1e8c090c915ffff229fb05d5c9fe71eefaa9ee Higher borrowing costs weigh on bullion, which does not pay interest. Traders ramped up rate-hike bets as the war sent energy prices soaring and fanned inflation concerns. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/china-traders-rush-exit-after-cross-border-flow-crackdown The Business Times en 2026-05-26T08:40:08+08:00 China traders rush for exit after cross-border flow crackdown https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ec09e96dc2b14afe2046bc9662ed025da6de38b3ec00efda007c79c0e2348909 China’s been trying to beef up its fiscal coffers as land sales revenue dried up and local governments are debt laiden due to excessive borrowing. Beijing has said that the measures are designed to clean up the capital market and steer investors towards regulated channels for overseas investment. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/stocks-watch-sats-flct-boustead-singapore The Business Times en 2026-05-26T08:32:51+08:00 Stocks to watch: Sats, FLCT, Boustead Singapore https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b06dc1addae3db0664aeb9eb550282065e69bddf638fa99b105cf7b3c964eb63 ST20250807_202521200683 Kua Chee Siong/ pixgeneric/ Generic pix of SATS logo on the facade of their building located in the Changi AirFreight Centre, on Aug 7, 2025. Sats on May 25 posted a net profit of S$50.7 million for its fourth quarter ended Mar 31, an increase of 31% from S$38.7 million in the year-ago period. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/scorching-asian-summer-will-add-risk-surging-gas-prices The Business Times en 2026-05-26T08:05:55+08:00 A scorching Asian summer will add to risk of surging gas prices https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e72666369dd30b66f42346ec9c92118899e3caa7515068cff30e601d699d2870 Forecasts currently point to hotter-than-normal summer temperatures in East Asia. Meteorologists are expecting that El Nino will emerge from June to August, and strengthen in subsequent months. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/startups-tech/engie-factory-asia-pacific-acquired-new-zealand-venture-capital-firm-pacific-channel The Business Times en 2026-05-26T08:00:00+08:00 Engie Factory Asia-Pacific acquired by New Zealand venture capital firm Pacific Channel https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f186eb479eda14f082f116750d8233594956b5ba1b8328e545210e8e04ba888b Brent Ogilvie, managing partner at Pacific Channel, said the acquisition marks "a significant expansion" of the firm's climate-tech investment platform across the Apac region, and extends their presence and active early-stage investment model beyond Australia and New Zealand into South-east Asia. Pacific Channel's Brent Ogilvie says the acquisition marks "a significant expansion" of the firm's climate-tech investment platform across Apac. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/glp-1-tsunami-headed-vice-industry-good The Business Times en 2026-05-26T07:15:00+08:00 A GLP-1 tsunami is headed for the vice industry. Good. https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8e8fdb23f08a7c33e7b6c110342fea47c848c7de4c859f1f437a7931f402baf5 A pharmaceutical firm in India has launched a weight-loss injection that costs from 1,290 rupees (S$17) a month. A pharmaceutical firm in India has launched a weight-loss injection that costs from 1,290 rupees (S$17) a month. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/chinese-tech-giants-dangle-record-pay-packets-court-singapore-trained-ai-graduates The Business Times en 2026-05-26T07:00:00+08:00 Chinese tech giants dangle record pay packets to court Singapore-trained AI graduates https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0560b7958b1536c691ac8f76a22f2af64acc7568f349c4f720fc659f35dee4bd A pop-up career fair by Chinese online travel giant Trip.com on the NTU campus in Boon Lay on April 16, where roles for AI engineers and data analysts were highlighted. A pop-up career fair by Chinese online travel giant Trip.com on the NTU campus in Boon Lay on April 16, where roles for AI engineers and data analysts were highlighted. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/how-singapore-and-vietnam-should-build-strategic-complementarity The Business Times en 2026-05-26T07:00:00+08:00 How Singapore and Vietnam should build strategic complementarity https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/84d30eed284e0169b488c5d452a2980283f63ca0aec86530e0966306486e9514 The Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park network remains one of the most concrete symbols of the partnership between both countries. The Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park network remains one of the most concrete symbols of the partnership between both countries. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/aramco-transfer-prefchem-stakes-malaysias-petronas The Business Times en 2026-05-26T06:59:21+08:00 Aramco to transfer PRefChem stakes to Malaysia’s Petronas https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/151f0aae4833e4df67431cbe2dbfd84a81d0b4f1d450373dc786555b7b6ab1f5 The tanker – which the data showed was chartered by Petco, a unit of Malaysian state energy firm Petronas – is among seven Malaysia-linked vessels cleared by Iran to transit the strait. Full ownership will give Petronas the flexibility to source crude beyond the Gulf and direct output to meet surging regional fuel demand. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/us-forces-launch-fresh-strikes-targets-southern-iran-even-peace-talks-proceed The Business Times en 2026-05-26T06:50:48+08:00 US forces launch fresh strikes on targets in southern Iran even as peace talks proceed https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/72518460aa15a2134585d6b70c5b320f0352b7240f3f2e439d52d693a40dc772 A mural depicting Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Teheran on May 25. Iran said nuclear issues would only be negotiated on if the framework accord is agreed first. A mural depicting Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Teheran on May 25. Iran said nuclear issues would only be negotiated on if the framework accord with the US is agreed first. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/even-after-strait-hormuz-deal-moving-1500-ships-wont-be-easy The Business Times en 2026-05-26T06:31:38+08:00 Even after a Strait of Hormuz deal, moving 1,500 ships won’t be easy https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/649211b45f1bddca9a8888cf416aa4cffb94230f4bbc12328d63e825716b5130 Ships that have been maintained by skeleton crews of seafarers, about 20,000 in all, have to be restarted. Iran has threatened to exercise control of the strait and recently established a regulatory agency to run operations there. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/iran-war-coming-your-diet-coke The Business Times en 2026-05-26T06:30:00+08:00 The Iran war is coming for your Diet Coke https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/449fdf3c0428b0b9e555b7e59efc184f79f743a0e5ed1ad3a6ed2b15beb2ec32 The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted exports of aluminium from smelters in the Persian Gulf, and that has hit beverage manufacturers in India. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted exports of aluminium from smelters in the Persian Gulf, and that has hit beverage manufacturers in India. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/oil-rebounds-strikes-near-strait-muddy-outlook-iran-deal The Business Times en 2026-05-26T05:54:15+08:00 Oil rebounds as strikes near strait muddy outlook for Iran deal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/64ba08a26eb1caf9e5fffc98b44cfe34cc9639911165b8217074e284c53a471b Crude prices are still on pace for a loss in May as a fragile ceasefire and push to reopen Hormuz outweigh signs of fast-depleting stockpiles. Crude prices are still on pace for a loss in May as a fragile ceasefire and push to reopen Hormuz outweigh signs of fast-depleting stockpiles. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/europes-stoxx-600-wipes-out-iran-war-losses-peace-deal-hopes-ai-optimism The Business Times en 2026-05-26T05:42:40+08:00 Europe’s Stoxx 600 wipes out Iran war losses on peace deal hopes, AI optimism https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/899f5edd09ef3812778b55e7c88e19c96badf13de325be7ad02c3bc4a0226e61 Investors will look to inflation data from major eurozone economies this week for signs of the Iran war’s impact. Investors will look to inflation data from major eurozone economies this week for signs of the Iran war’s impact. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/podcasts/who-are-buying-private-homes-and-how-do-agents-stay-relevant-propnexs-ceo-kelvin-fong The Business Times en 2026-05-26T05:00:00+08:00 Who are buying private homes and how do agents stay relevant? With PropNex’s CEO Kelvin Fong https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a5092d7254b05d0b8657f70ab823749ac666f4603ae50f3d24a533002fdc07d1 What is the state of play in the resale market for private homes? What is the state of play in the resale market for private homes? https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/boustead-more-doubles-h2-profit-s197-7-million The Business Times en 2026-05-26T00:24:13+08:00 Boustead more than doubles H2 profit to S$197.7 million https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1ab85b102e3ff03646a1f59ce5ea97445e20b4ca1514621e0cefeefca4551fc2 Boustead attributes its FY2026 performance primarily to the sale of assets to UI Boustead Reit. Boustead attributes its FY2026 performance primarily to the sale of assets to UI Boustead Reit. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/trump-links-abraham-accords-any-iran-deal-asks-muslim-nations-normalise-relations-israel The Business Times en 2026-05-25T23:27:55+08:00 Trump links Abraham Accords to any Iran deal, asks Muslim nations to normalise relations with Israel https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/176ece998b8a12d4901688f039fd347978ce6f75079c2c7971e4414a4a3b65a2 President Donald Trump says this will complement an interim peace deal he’s negotiating with Iran. President Donald Trump says this will complement an interim peace deal he’s negotiating with Iran. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/frasers-logistics-commercial-trust-grows-presence-europe-4-property-acquisitions The Business Times en 2026-05-25T23:21:40+08:00 Frasers Logistics & Commercial Trust grows presence in Europe with 4 property acquisitions https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0f0272a5e99645cbb6a466fd02963ed8537a61d35146e2e135c3cfdb987a42d6 One of the acquired properties is located in Dusseldorf, Germany. One of the acquired properties is located in Dusseldorf, Germany. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/sats-posts-31-rise-q4-profit-despite-impact-middle-east-conflict The Business Times en 2026-05-25T22:30:41+08:00 Sats posts 31% rise in Q4 profit despite impact of Middle East conflict https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/81a14324ed599f03e5b6d719bc3bdaadbd54747c5978e0967b9708f18d75ffba Sats president and CEO Kerry Mok says the group has been "working closely with customers to maintain their cargo flows as routes and lanes shift" amid the Middle East conflict. Sats president and CEO Kerry Mok says the group has been "working closely with customers to maintain their cargo flows as routes and lanes shift" amid the Middle East conflict. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/eldest-son-vietnams-richest-man-steps-vinfast-chair The Business Times en 2026-05-25T21:58:29+08:00 Eldest son of Vietnam’s richest man steps up as VinFast chair https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7a0e9e87494f7f38132fc91c48eaac0e7b9a1af0741eda592b13853ec8557563 Pham Nhat Quan Anh, 33, is also vice-chairman and standing deputy general director at VinFast Trading and Production. Pham Nhat Quan Anh, 33, is also vice-chairman and standing deputy general director at VinFast Trading and Production. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/us-iran-edge-closer-deal-still-need-negotiate-points The Business Times en 2026-05-25T21:05:40+08:00 US, Iran edge closer to deal but still need to negotiate points https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/48feda1f88e253f1f953e2efe8cd7175f00c53774349e0365b192dd799925eab Oil prices fell on Monday after Washington and Teheran indicated they were close to agreeing a broad framework. Oil prices fell on Monday after Washington and Teheran indicated they were close to agreeing a broad framework. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/governance-workforce-gaps-hinder-companies-ai-adoption-despite-rising-investments-kpmg The Business Times en 2026-05-25T20:13:53+08:00 Governance, workforce gaps hinder companies’ AI adoption despite rising investments: KPMG https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4408ba1192a8816ecb55ccb0c56f7a9cf76a6528917b6c5c33fdbc601a83d254 From left: Gerry Chng, partner, head of cyber, advisory, KPMG in Singapore; Lyon Poh, partner, head of corporate transformation and AI, KPMG in Singapore; Lee Sze Yeng, managing partner, KPMG in Singapore; Jasmin Lau, Minister of State for Digital Development and Information and Education; Jermaine Loy, managing director of the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB). From left: KPMG in Singapore's Gerry Chng, Lyon Poh and Lee Sze Yeng; Minister of State for Digital Development and Information Jasmin Lau; and EDB's Jermaine Loy at the AI CoE's launch. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/only-15-workers-singapore-feel-their-jobs-are-safe-amid-ai-driven-anxieties-survey The Business Times en 2026-05-25T19:14:38+08:00 Only 15% of workers in Singapore feel their jobs are safe amid AI-driven anxieties: survey https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/094799aa2a306e30a861bdb464bd6c849b3e3bfba7c0210af3bca17d405cf096 Younger workers in Singapore, aged between 18 and 26, were the most optimistic about their prospects, with 22 per cent saying they felt secure in their jobs. Younger workers in Singapore, aged between 18 and 26, are the most optimistic about their prospects. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/singapore-stocks-rise-monday-amid-buzz-over-potential-us-iran-deal-sti-0-1 The Business Times en 2026-05-25T18:47:05+08:00 Singapore stocks rise on Monday amid buzz over potential US-Iran deal; STI up 0.1% https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/06fb1c698753ab6d9bfac64cd7e3ce3ad4e1c97ddb1c154514476b2266e3953e The benchmark STI is up 2.4 points at 5,070.55. The benchmark STI is up 2.4 points at 5,070.55. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/pope-leo-warns-ai-should-be-prevented-dominating-humanity The Business Times en 2026-05-25T18:44:27+08:00 Pope Leo warns AI should be prevented from ‘dominating humanity’ https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ee55eaeea41ed26b877eb9e888af9e92b943b95a180fe0ed28af0dd53ff868ec Pope Leo XIV prepares to speak during the presentation of "Magnifica humanitas", his first encyclical, focused on the rise of AI, at the Vatican, May 25, 2026. Pope Leo XIV prepares to speak during the presentation of "Magnifica humanitas", his first encyclical, focused on the rise of AI, at the Vatican, May 25, 2026. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/daily-debrief-what-happened-today-may-25 The Business Times en 2026-05-25T18:30:00+08:00 Daily Debrief: What Happened Today (May 25) https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f1a1901a1297e369198a3f55addba5cd45909198a0952ceb36feb32197fd18a5 A view of the Port of Singapore, Pasir Panjang Terminal 1. Electronic shipments expanded by 57.8% in Q1, up from the 23.4% increase the previous quarter. Electronic shipments expanded by 57.8% in Q1, up from the 23.4% increase the previous quarter. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/after-american-order-how-mid-sized-states-could-become-middle-powers The Business Times en 2026-05-25T18:30:00+08:00 After the American order: How mid-sized states could become middle powers https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/feadd877a51660c6e98617e97d4553a137cb4903cfd5d80fe0c003ee35414325 The combination of their interests and capacity to pursue them means that middle powers desire, and could prove pivotal to the emergence of, a new world order. The combination of their interests and capacity to pursue them means that middle powers desire, and could prove pivotal to the emergence of, a new world order. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/narrow-door-out-hormuz-war The Business Times en 2026-05-25T18:00:00+08:00 A narrow door out of the Hormuz war https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/797b3ce7fddc6d0f7e47589a27a8a1c40846cf28758da368dbae20d1ec4fc8b1 Iranian mines in the strait have done what no Opec quota ever could: throttled the world’s most important energy artery and driven US inflation to its highest level in years. Iranian mines in the strait have throttled the world’s most important energy artery and driven US inflation to its highest level in years. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/japans-takaichi-unveils-3-trillion-yen-extra-budget-reassures-bond-issuance The Business Times en 2026-05-25T17:58:49+08:00 Japan’s Takaichi unveils 3 trillion yen extra Budget, reassures on bond issuance https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/09d9c1e5b535bf686b9ad346663b1ed3a7e63777ec8e6c81b9e90b3d89c827e1 Japan's PM said any additional issuance of deficit-financing bonds to fund the extra budget is likely to be offset by higher tax revenue and others. Japan's PM said any additional issuance of deficit-financing bonds to fund the extra budget is likely to be offset by higher tax revenue and others. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/high-court-raps-uob-over-inconsistent-legal-positions-late-mortgage-payment-charges The Business Times en 2026-05-25T17:50:48+08:00 High Court raps UOB over inconsistent legal positions on late mortgage payment charges https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1abd31475d44b56b63739dd7d665dd10e0a10c92d0f74a47fc3d3f1af96be1b9 The High Court said UOB has taken inconsistent legal positions on late payment charges in mortgage cases. The High Court said UOB has taken inconsistent legal positions on late payment charges in mortgage cases. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/farmland-south-lim-chu-kang-be-zoned-defence-land-further-north-be-used-agriculture The Business Times en 2026-05-25T17:26:43+08:00 Farmland south of Lim Chu Kang to be zoned for defence, land further north to be used for agriculture https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/57bc202ff055588348e405055c61619daa229458080d6c267fc05f0bf1d6cc06 Gallop Kranji Farm Resort is among five lease-holders currently occupying the southern plots at Neo Tiew Lane and Neo Tiew Road. Gallop Kranji Farm Resort is among five leaseholders currently occupying the southern plots at Neo Tiew Lane and Neo Tiew Road. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/european-shares-climb-over-two-month-highs-iran-us-peace-optimism The Business Times en 2026-05-25T17:15:44+08:00 European shares climb to over two-month highs on Iran-US peace optimism https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d82e0c3caf8baa2c817b9560d50165e38c160a12ed7118439558d7b3e89dc50d The Stoxx 600 was up 0.67 per cent at 629.28 points at 0818 GMT on Monday, just shy of a record high touched in late February. The Stoxx 600 was up 0.67 per cent at 629.28 points at 0818 GMT on Monday, just shy of a record high touched in late February. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/malaysia-reports-fallout-iran-war-industries-get-hit The Business Times en 2026-05-25T16:19:48+08:00 Malaysia reports fallout from Iran war as industries get hit https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c805cc02e6691a3c25ae1a9c222558a8f9f295a8ad454692dc018b0ef3e38c76 Malaysia's Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the investment figures tell only part of the story as the harder test lies ahead on how fast the authorities could turn the approvals into projects, and plans into execution. Malaysia's Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the number of workers who lost their jobs rose 21 per cent to 7,057 in April from March. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/erp-charges-may-resume-orchard-road-if-congestion-area-worsens-lta The Business Times en 2026-05-25T16:10:44+08:00 ERP charges may resume in Orchard Road if congestion in the area worsens: LTA https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/9db1c215fa67b75c0a4f65ec7f6e5e43ac239357bd0a02ef84101b32f395270d LTA is closely monitoring traffic in the Orchard area, which has seen speeds persistently lower than optimal. LTA is closely monitoring traffic in the Orchard area, which has seen speeds persistently lower than optimal. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/ecb-convening-bank-meeting-fix-flaws-exposed-ai-models-report The Business Times en 2026-05-25T16:10:09+08:00 ECB convening bank meeting to fix flaws exposed by AI models: report https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e840a29702d2877b2ba6b7826978d180e4c04b74f69f5003aae9493a96a241fb Mythos, which can identify unknown flaws in IT systems, has sent a wave of anxiety across Europe as Anthropic is limiting access to it. Mythos, which can identify unknown flaws in IT systems, has sent a wave of anxiety across Europe as Anthropic is limiting access to it. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/thailands-trade-deficit-hits-record-us10-billion-imports-soar The Business Times en 2026-05-25T16:02:43+08:00 Thailand’s trade deficit hits record US$10 billion as imports soar https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/978fbce8779d2161859e8b610cd2e0430b6b675dbc0c94b3376585b1b89439f3 The trend of strong imports and a widening trade deficit is likely to continue if energy prices remain elevated and the AI boom continues to fuel trade flows. The trend of strong imports and a widening trade deficit is likely to continue if energy prices remain elevated and the AI boom continues to fuel trade flows. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/should-buyers-get-more-excited-over-relatively-cheap-freehold-newport-residences The Business Times en 2026-05-25T15:56:10+08:00 Should buyers get more excited over relatively ‘cheap’ freehold Newport Residences? https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/56ce5a04fa4138361d4c24973365cbeca2d0f7c4220e3486f4bcac6dd2b00684 Newport Residences spans levels 23 to 45 of the 45-storey Newport Plaza, which will also have Grade A offices, F&B spaces and branded serviced apartments. Newport Residences spans levels 23 to 45 of the 45-storey Newport Plaza, which will also have Grade A offices, F&B spaces and branded serviced apartments. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/japan-bond-yield-surge-deepens-regional-bank-stock-divide The Business Times en 2026-05-25T15:50:55+08:00 Japan bond yield surge deepens regional bank stock divide https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a82ec01e5ff29beac1ce80dfd029fd1d8580c89b1983fe1f602f9aad095a8b10 Banking stock prices have more than doubled over the past several years since the Bank of Japan started raising interest rates and normalising monetary policy in March 2024. Banking stock prices have more than doubled over the past several years since the Bank of Japan started raising interest rates and normalising monetary policy in March 2024. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/softbank-taps-retail-investors-us1-6-billion-yen-bond-deal The Business Times en 2026-05-25T15:50:47+08:00 SoftBank taps retail investors with US$1.6 billion yen bond deal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6f95d57267500c25c46491598643ad0734f49d0e980921ff0040f3569cabf938 SoftBank’s swift return to the retail bond market comes amid its growing funding needs for artificial intelligence-related investments. SoftBank’s swift return to the retail bond market comes amid its growing funding needs for artificial intelligence-related investments. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/australian-shares-notch-two-week-closing-peak-middle-east-peace-hopes The Business Times en 2026-05-25T15:32:52+08:00 Australian shares notch two-week closing peak on Middle East peace hopes https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3ad57876201f6b3d4692bf1739fa533fad449648a074cef2829262e16944ab18 The S&P/ASX 200 index rose 0.4 per cent to 8,692 at the close, its highest since May 11, extending gains for a third straight session. The S&P/ASX 200 index rose 0.4 per cent to 8,692 at the close, its highest since May 11, extending gains for a third straight session. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/ai-boom-masks-mounting-risks-middle-east-energy-shock-mas-chief The Business Times en 2026-05-25T14:49:19+08:00 AI boom masks mounting risks from Middle East energy shock: MAS chief https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/71e5b8abd1983ef6f95a7ce2ba264f7da4f99762264420a0016ab13d12b2b817 Young Jin Yee, Co-Head UBS Global Wealth Management Asia Pacific and Country Head UBS Singapore, in conversation with Chia Der Jiun, Managing Director, Monetary Authority of Singapore, on the macro-economic outlook and evolving geopolitical landscape UBS' Young Jin Yee (left) in conversation with MAS' Chia Der Jiun on the macroeconomic outlook and evolving geopolitical landscape. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/vinhomes-lets-homebuyers-pay-gold-tapping-vietnams-vast-private-hoards The Business Times en 2026-05-25T14:18:50+08:00 Vinhomes lets homebuyers pay with gold, tapping Vietnam’s vast private hoards https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2fd5a235379bec7924e638fd6d8a7f8e9857ce33b7c5c6e668bead1824e617fa Under Vinhome's scheme, the value of gold converted into cash must cover at least 80% of a property’s purchase price. Under Vinhome's scheme, the value of gold converted into cash must cover at least 80% of a property’s purchase price. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/addvalue-tech-ends-20-3-higher-h2-earnings-surge The Business Times en 2026-05-25T13:42:32+08:00 Addvalue Tech ends 20.3% higher on H2 earnings surge  https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/16b3497edf6e0e3a6538d8917cc31f624f860e39ffac1b76be767afd75259665 For the full year, Addvalue’s net profit is up 147.5% at US$4.8 million, from US$2 million previously. For the full year, Addvalue’s net profit is up 147.5% at US$4.8 million, from US$2 million previously. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/economy-policy/singapore-core-inflation-cools-1-4-april-benign-surprise The Business Times en 2026-05-25T13:00:15+08:00 Singapore core inflation cools to 1.4% in April in benign surprise https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b4410c8e04293c97867104c6600ac5c2dc81e3e09be0d51aceb243e2327afada Generic of shoppers at the Sheng Siong supermarket outlet at West Coast on April 6, 2026. Economists expected core inflation to rise to 1.8%, and headline inflation to come in at 2.1% in April. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/china-trading-curbs-may-hit-hk250-billion-hong-kong-assets The Business Times en 2026-05-25T12:47:49+08:00 China trading curbs may hit HK$250 billion of Hong Kong assets https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/43382206553e45dcc995a7e3aec634c92cc21eb7a763196059e97c8f7e35e5ed The move marks Beijing’s most aggressive attempt yet to curb citizens from accessing overseas markets outside approved channels. The move marks Beijing’s most aggressive attempt yet to curb citizens from accessing overseas markets outside approved channels. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/transport-logistics/vessels-carrying-middle-east-oil-lng-exit-hormuz-amid-us-iran-peace-talks-head-pakistan-china The Business Times en 2026-05-25T12:11:31+08:00 Vessels carrying Middle East oil, LNG exit Hormuz amid US-Iran peace talks, head for Pakistan, China https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c80ec1d92c867f7bd1293b05be182375fa3f51384f5f8ff10f76ebccc8bf54cf Before ​the war began, shipping traffic through Hormuz averaged 125 ‌to ⁠140 daily passages. Before ​the war began, shipping traffic through Hormuz averaged 125 ‌to ⁠140 daily passages. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/toshifumi-suzuki-who-transformed-7-eleven-chain-dies-93 The Business Times en 2026-05-25T11:45:06+08:00 Toshifumi Suzuki, who transformed 7-Eleven chain, dies at 93 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/123e4333132faf97e1b4e3ba3408159db22d40f874ab649b9ab11bc4d3fcbc8c Toshifumi Suzuki revolutionised how Japanese people shop when he opened the nation’s first 24-hour 7-Eleven franchise in 1974. Toshifumi Suzuki revolutionised how Japanese people shop when he opened the nation’s first 24-hour 7-Eleven franchise in 1974. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/japans-nikkei-jumps-past-65000-mark-first-time-iran-talks-optimism The Business Times en 2026-05-25T11:19:24+08:00 Japan’s Nikkei jumps past 65,000 mark for first time on Iran talks optimism https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7dcdee6160147503766b8b5af91b08baaa440d51d5a54f5180d3f115b4da7f38 Japan’s dependence on imported energy has made its economy vulnerable to a surge in oil prices caused by the nearly three-month conflict. Japan’s dependence on imported energy has made its economy vulnerable to a surge in oil prices caused by the nearly three-month conflict. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/china-uses-first-time-new-rules-counter-improper-foreign-jurisdiction-over-its-firms The Business Times en 2026-05-25T10:22:30+08:00 China uses for the first time new rules to counter ‘improper’ foreign jurisdiction over its firms https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/37bc95a704b52568eb77063ef46221ed315b03a637ebc8ad58a1659ff891bf38 On May 2, Beijing ordered its companies not to comply with US sanctions on five Chinese refineries accused of buying Iranian oil, including Hengli Petrochemicals (above). On May 2, Beijing ordered its companies not to comply with US sanctions on five Chinese refineries accused of buying Iranian oil, including Hengli Petrochemicals (above). https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/chinas-huawei-reveals-chip-design-breakthrough-amid-us-sanctions The Business Times en 2026-05-25T10:10:56+08:00 China’s Huawei reveals chip design breakthrough amid US sanctions https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a9967f8e1cee31123934d6a045fa78cb5c4fc8af975185dce825e8697473027d Huawei will start making 1.4-nanometre (nm) chips by 2031 with its own “LogicFolding” technology, Huawei’s semiconductor chief He Tingbo says. Huawei unveiled on Monday a new principle for improving chips, noting the industry can no longer rely mainly on making transistors smaller. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/jardine-matheson-acquiring-i-med-radiology-network-3-4-billion The Business Times en 2026-05-25T10:02:31+08:00 Jardine Matheson acquiring I-MED Radiology Network for A$3.4 billion https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0c82b4cebebb96e234b0bc4c6e5ae14a255074fc1c734a1507b117c4ae3a391b I-MED operates a network of 215 diagnostic imaging clinics across metropolitan and regional communities in Australia and New Zealand. I-MED operates a network of 215 diagnostic imaging clinics across Australia and New Zealand. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/paid-press-release/agentforce-360-adoption-drives-strong-customer-growth-for-salesforce-singapore The Business Times en 2026-05-25T10:00:00+08:00 Agentforce 360 Adoption Drives Strong Customer Growth for Salesforce Singapore https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/500ea3ac69b2758579920029de491cb5c2ebb8371972a015b9f3a57910ef07db Keynote session at Agentforce World Tour 2026 exploring how Agentforce can help support businesses transform into Agentic Enterprises Keynote session at Agentforce World Tour 2026 exploring how Agentforce can help support businesses transform into Agentic Enterprises https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/indonesia-eyes-commodity-export-policy-detail-roll-out-coming-weeks The Business Times en 2026-05-25T09:51:17+08:00 Indonesia eyes commodity export policy detail roll-out in coming weeks https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/82970c46e4f92d05025bc6939f162aab92742a2ef00bd8b2cf969d95f20105b0 Indonesia's Vice-Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri says that the move is essential to “protect our national interests” and maximise export revenue. Indonesia's Vice-Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri says that the move is essential to “protect our national interests” and maximise export revenue. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/geo-energy-expects-further-clarity-indonesias-plan-centralise-commodity-export-controls The Business Times en 2026-05-25T09:10:51+08:00 Geo Energy expects ‘further clarity’ on Indonesia’s plan to centralise commodity export controls https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b9334a1993363a64081b70d695f22736925165691a63c26a2abfe8129594ce14 Geo Energy said that its current production, logistics, customer relationships, and export activities continue “as (per) normal,” as their fundamentals remain “strong.” Geo Energy says it has not received any official communication or directive in relation to the Indonesian government’s plan. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/mapletree-industrial-trust-divests-philadelphia-data-centre-us14-5-million The Business Times en 2026-05-25T09:00:13+08:00 Mapletree Industrial Trust divests Philadelphia data centre for US$14.5 million https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ea0f7871168d2fc24da0550f90d4dd95cf36edff5d3d76c571be20fe651e6e05 Lily Ler, chief executive officer of the manager of MIT said the sale is part of the trust’s broader strategy to “rebalance (its) portfolio. Lily Ler, chief executive officer of the manager of MIT, says the sale is part of the trust’s broader strategy to "rebalance (its) portfolio". https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/aspial-lifestyle-raises-s84-8-million-s0-402-apiece The Business Times en 2026-05-25T08:47:43+08:00 Aspial Lifestyle raises S$84.8 million at S$0.402 apiece https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5b82bc2b5f706c58c8009961b43208eda8819f45efc31381d308bc26280662f3 Aspial Lifestyle's total number of shares rose from around 1.9 billion shares to 2 billion shares, following the completion of the private placement. Aspial Lifestyle's private placement is over two times covered, and attracted investors including Eastspring. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/stocks-watch-mapletree-industrial-trust-hour-glass-ui-boustead-reit-boustead-singapore-aspial The Business Times en 2026-05-25T08:20:13+08:00 Stocks to watch: Mapletree Industrial Trust, The Hour Glass, UI Boustead Reit, Boustead Singapore, Aspial Lifestyle https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4e7076280e54f696de53a6f09cec7f38b647490329d2713881f7ace22a6b801f The Hour Glass' revenue for H2 rose 16 per cent year on year to S$722.8 million, from S$622.6 million. The Hour Glass' revenue for its H2 rose 16 per cent year on year to S$722.8 million, from S$622.6 million. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/economy-policy/singapore-upgrades-2026-key-exports-growth-forecast-3-5-electronics-shipments-power-q1-expansion The Business Times en 2026-05-25T08:01:27+08:00 Singapore upgrades 2026 key exports growth forecast to 3-5% as electronics shipments power Q1 expansion https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f1a1901a1297e369198a3f55addba5cd45909198a0952ceb36feb32197fd18a5 A view of the Port of Singapore, Pasir Panjang Terminal 1. Electronic shipments expanded by 57.8% in Q1, up from the 23.4% increase the previous quarter. Electronic shipments expanded by 57.8% in Q1, up from the 23.4% increase the previous quarter. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/economy-policy/singapore-maintains-2026-growth-forecast-2-4-despite-rising-downside-risks-iran-war The Business Times en 2026-05-25T08:00:00+08:00 Singapore maintains 2026 growth forecast at 2-4% despite rising downside risks from Iran war https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/156346322720468b0e180e8545ce71e41b55af7ffa0b6d10b1b22f70b9ee3719 The global outlook has deteriorated since MTI raised its official forecast in early February, with the Iran war starting on Feb 28. Downside risks for Singapore have risen significantly, says MTI, as energy and key input supply disruptions due to the Strait of Hormuz blockade lead to cost spikes, driving up inflationary pressures. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/war-driven-supply-shock-already-roiling-manufacturing-asia The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:36:54+08:00 The war-driven supply shock already roiling manufacturing in Asia https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/fcfd1b243285e352982832d9076ccccf5247a1914f79a47c96017057cedaae2a Yeosu Industrial Complex in South Korea. Asia's naphtha supply chains have long been dependent on the Middle East. Yeosu Industrial Complex in South Korea. Asia's naphtha supply chains have long been dependent on the Middle East. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/what-will-power-growth-amid-uncertainty-asean-businesses-say-answer-lies-close-home-bt-survey The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 What will power growth amid uncertainty? Asean businesses say answer lies close to home: BT survey https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/acb1276e3f0abddbfbb093d0045730874c9190a0a483e57bc5d4cb4251e241fa Flags of Asean countries flying in Vientiane, Laos where the 44th and 45th Asean Summits will be held, 8 October 2024. While the Middle East crisis has cast a shadow on the business outlook, overall sentiment among business leaders in Asean remains positive. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/high-opportunity-low-trust-why-firms-see-asean-market-attractive-not-easy-navigate The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 ‘High opportunity, low trust’: Why firms see Asean market as attractive but not easy to navigate https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b9f6dfc5d853e7cfaf8c7e02a51bffb6fc9cfec6e179391dd4bf8a27316831be Buildings in the Central Business District (CBD) in Makati City, the Philippines. The Philippines has the largest mismatch between opportunity and trust, with a third of the 46 business executives surveyed citing it. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/asean-firms-allocate-81-investments-within-asia-move-supply-chains-region-bt-survey The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 Asean firms to allocate 81% of investments within Asia, move supply chains to region: BT survey https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c96c4d1c4f197e8c644208c21464faef6b452142275e41affa9e561c56104541 Across Asean, automation and AI are the top investment priority, survey respondents say. Across Asean, automation and AI are the top investment priority, survey respondents say. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/indonesia-leads-asean-ai-adoption-demand-sovereign-models-rises-bt-survey The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 Indonesia leads Asean in AI adoption as demand for sovereign models rises: BT survey https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/962e2c02b010305cd3481624fe4f4901cb9028c4e6b901154f0088bdccba1fd0 A participant walks in front of an AI banner during the Microsoft AI Tour event in Jakarta, Indonesia, 27 May 2025. Just over six in 10 of Indonesia’s companies are considered “first movers”, a BT survey has found. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/aims-apac-reit-eyes-data-centre-growth-it-expands-beyond-industrial-assets The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 Aims Apac Reit eyes data centre growth as it expands beyond industrial assets https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/91817f43f88fa7311583eb6a378ee50ffa9fe9fa1558f6e7c51f4e6775e9c867 Russell Ng, CEO of Aims Apac Reit's manager, says that even after "another year of steady growth" in FY2026, the Reit is "making a deliberate pivot towards data centres". Russell Ng, CEO of Aims Apac Reit's manager, says that even after "another year of steady growth" in FY2026, the Reit is "making a deliberate pivot towards data centres". https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/wealth/wealth-investing/strong-apac-wealth-creation-boosts-ubs-profitability-and-assets-new-record The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 Strong Apac wealth creation boosts UBS’ profitability and assets to new record https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7cd6151622499b306e8462caa81db1f75d5d739fce65288459c6fb3a2a3119a5 Young Jin Yee, co-head of UBS global wealth management for the Asia-Pacific, says UBS has the most diversified footprint among its competitors. Young Jin Yee, co-head of UBS global wealth management for the Asia-Pacific, says UBS has the most diversified footprint among its competitors. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/chinas-tajikistan-treaty-shows-central-asias-new-investment-geography The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 China’s Tajikistan treaty shows Central Asia’s new investment geography https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5e3657c5ed3cac0786fab936601638146070f48449b52b861e9e8b171aa1cc27 Tajikistan's President Emomali Rahmon (left) and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The countries have upgraded their 2007 Good-Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation Treaty into a permanent framework. Tajikistan's President Emomali Rahmon (left) and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The countries have upgraded their 2007 Good-Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation Treaty into a permanent framework. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/nasdaq-100s-longer-term-trend-still-bullish-despite-recent-increase-volatility The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 Nasdaq 100’s longer-term trend still bullish despite recent increase in volatility https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8b3a3f00b1d784605984c9eec09099ef5c051dbb5a4a84b92d76d386b99292a5 Investors remain increasingly sensitive to valuation pressures stemming from higher interest rates. Investors remain increasingly sensitive to valuation pressures stemming from higher interest rates. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/investor-engagement-road-paved-good-intentions-where-it-going The Business Times en 2026-05-25T07:00:00+08:00 Investor engagement: A road paved with good intentions, but where is it going? https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4a8b483f143c0637b312f8d315b3eae40f90efa7a0d7fba29c58b541fc5c5979 Codifying rules on investor relations may result in generic disclosures and box-ticking, rather than meaningful communication and engagement. Codifying rules on investor relations may result in generic disclosures and box-ticking, rather than meaningful communication and engagement, says the writer. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/oil-slips-2-week-low-us-iran-seen-moving-closer-peace-deal The Business Times en 2026-05-25T06:57:15+08:00 Oil slips to 2-week low as US-Iran seen moving closer to peace deal https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/dab2d5f59c055a158fba213d21e5be952f37aa7b20bee14a6b79339a27821a0e Hormuz, which links the region to world markets, has been subject to a double blockade, with curbs imposed by both Iran and the US. Hormuz, which links the region to world markets, has been subject to a double blockade, with curbs imposed by both Iran and the US. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/gold-gains-prospects-iran-deal-temper-inflation-concerns The Business Times en 2026-05-25T06:34:19+08:00 Gold gains as prospects of Iran deal temper inflation concerns https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/81df9bc74dc029f8a32bf192e91da4233bab15b6562e7c45c81a6e3b92728e06 Higher rates typically weigh on gold as it pays no interest. Bullion has traded within a fairly narrow range since falling sharply in the early days of the Iran war. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/new-zealand-ease-golden-visa-investment-criteria-allow-philanthropy The Business Times en 2026-05-25T06:11:13+08:00 New Zealand to ease golden visa investment criteria to allow philanthropy https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ae6c7ac8461cef40c74bea713d4f4c301a48f6e888671dae10f7789bcbd78a22 Demand for New Zealand’s golden visa has been strong since the coalition government revamped the rules in April 2025. Demand for New Zealand’s golden visa has been strong since the coalition government revamped the rules in April 2025. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/podcasts/yield-without-fear-navigating-credit-markets-high-rate-era The Business Times en 2026-05-25T05:00:00+08:00 Yield without fear: Navigating credit markets in a high-rate era https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b80d82cf4c7d2763d19b8a58a8204e7d14a78045f8be4b9b93f4dd6ee4b268a6 How should the average retail investor think about reintroducing fixed income into a typically equity-heavy personal portfolio? How should the average retail investor think about reintroducing fixed income into a typically equity-heavy personal portfolio? https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/market-has-jumped-shark-sizzling-chip-stocks-rally-showing-signs-patterns-seen-2000 The Business Times en 2026-05-25T05:00:00+08:00 ‘Market has jumped the shark’: Sizzling chip stocks rally showing signs of patterns seen in 2000 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2aec3bef1e145e164a6ee669bf98b01fd41550a22d692e41b37ed3757263fe1b A trader works on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Tech giant Nvidia is on pace to become the world's first US$6 trillion company soon. A trader works on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Tech giant Nvidia is on pace to become the world's first US$6 trillion company soon. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/baltic-exchange-shipping-insights70 The Business Times en 2026-05-25T04:33:36+08:00 Baltic Exchange Shipping Insights https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/47c636d13af8cbcf373c08d71384c878c3296350bc4dcec2f2371efe4bcb3214 A roundup of the week’s tanker and dry bulk market. A roundup of the week’s tanker and dry bulk market. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/startups-tech/technology/ai-executives-were-all-just-meat-computers The Business Times en 2026-05-25T00:06:06+08:00 To AI executives, we’re all just ‘meat computers’ https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8aa3eccc5033f990b553e635ec00ceceff5b112d01515e1cb00e7a1a00f7c713 Elon Musk is among the tech executives that have referred to humans as “meat computers”. Elon Musk is among the tech executives that have referred to humans as “meat computers”. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/us-will-find-another-way-if-talks-iran-end-war-fail-rubio The Business Times en 2026-05-24T23:47:26+08:00 US will find ‘another way’ if talks with Iran to end war fail: Rubio https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/fca4605590b40c1b0b04babae3758a41a6fe53f1bf5980ee1b0e03a8d2cabebb US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US would give diplomacy every chance to succeed before exploring “alternatives”. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US would give diplomacy every chance to succeed before exploring “alternatives”. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/wealth/yields-stay-high-even-if-iran-war-ends-bond-strategists The Business Times en 2026-05-24T23:27:10+08:00 Yields to stay high even if Iran war ends: bond strategists https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/eb986e76e5deee7010a56b3e5a924a01c5de2d548f8ef96b6f1e28a275a4740a Among the factors weighing on longer-term borrowing costs is the mounting chance central banks such as the US Federal Reserve will raise interest rates.  Among the factors weighing on longer-term borrowing costs is the mounting chance central banks such as the US Federal Reserve will raise interest rates.  https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/nissan-unit-scraps-plan-make-ev-powertrains-uk-nikkei The Business Times en 2026-05-24T20:24:05+08:00 Nissan unit scraps plan to make EV powertrains in UK: Nikkei https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0eddf056e109a64602e501e78b0f8e8071f05d6bcd875c3a142b7733d6edf445 Nissan has said it will cut the number of its auto production plants to 10 from 17 and conduct a review of its powertrain factories. Nissan has said it will cut the number of its auto production plants to 10 from 17 and conduct a review of its powertrain factories. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/nacho-versus-taco-are-these-tex-mex-themes-about-give-investors-singapore-indigestion The Business Times en 2026-05-24T19:58:32+08:00 Nacho versus Taco: Are these Tex-Mex themes about to give investors in Singapore indigestion? https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/142705143b8389f0a1f5d23db432cef114de9706525b558e35671209a8e0bc9e Earnings at S&P 500 constituents rose 28.4 per cent in Q1 2026 – their fastest growth since Q4 2021, when the world was emerging from the pandemic Earnings at S&P 500 constituents rose 28.4% in Q1 2026 – their fastest growth since Q4 2021, when the world was emerging from the Covid-19 pandemic. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/s-reit-retail-flows-2026 The Business Times en 2026-05-24T18:38:51+08:00 S-Reit retail flows in 2026 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c673a9f4aef673775e0483696a3617f381c8652e596a214ac06188647377b2be Daiwa House Logistics Trust maintains lease visibility with a meaningful portion of expiries extending beyond 2030, supported by its logistics portfolio and stable tenant demand. Daiwa House Logistics Trust maintains lease visibility with a meaningful portion of expiries extending beyond 2030. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/directors-increase-stakes-aspial-lifestyle-raffles-medical-centurion-among-others The Business Times en 2026-05-24T18:38:35+08:00 Directors increase stakes in Aspial Lifestyle, Raffles Medical, Centurion, among others https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/665393808e44cc1f546eee66022ff1b169c0b0b6dab308b5c539a3957d0ae30a Directors or CEOs reported 16 acquisitions and five disposals, while substantial shareholders recorded 10 acquisitions and three disposals. Directors or CEOs reported 16 acquisitions and five disposals, while substantial shareholders recorded 10 acquisitions and three disposals. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/wealth/worlds-most-fervent-day-traders-south-korea-get-risky-new-tools The Business Times en 2026-05-24T16:27:17+08:00 World’s most fervent day traders in South Korea to get risky new tools https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7b8b449cb5fbc3f6707ee2a533f2cd7f14334883cfa02fd698c914ede6234670 Linked to chipmakers Samsung Electronicsand SK Hynix, the products will seek to deliver twice the daily moves of the two stocks, both central to the global AI trade. Linked to chipmakers Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, the products will seek to deliver twice the daily moves of the two stocks, both central to the global AI trade. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/lawsuit-risk-presidents-scorn-why-us-companies-are-tiptoeing-trump-tariff-refund-race The Business Times en 2026-05-24T16:06:02+08:00 Lawsuit risk, president’s scorn: Why US companies are tiptoeing into the Trump tariff-refund race https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/9f910da0cf3ea015dadffca5a66d621d2d8767a8e51d6e9d68c2a62bb3a7f25b US President Trump signs an executive order implementing new tariffs against US trading partners on Apr 2, 2025. US President Trump signs an executive order implementing new tariffs against US trading partners on Apr 2, 2025. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/shareholder-change-not-new-thing-firms-strength-comes-its-talent-cycle-carriage-md The Business Times en 2026-05-24T16:00:00+08:00 Shareholder change ‘not a new thing’; firm’s strength comes from its talent: Cycle & Carriage MD https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/636a1e1bf8eb9076c1418babdfb7cd3b15ca9b72f52f1d282d07739eeae038e8 The Cycle & Carriage sign at the automotive retailer's offices on 239 Alexandra Road, Singapore. Industry observers think recent moves by C&C's parent company could be preparations for a sale of the unit. Industry observers think recent moves by C&C's parent company could be preparations for a sale of the unit. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/showdown-tanglin-club-sees-new-rival-slate-elected-general-committee The Business Times en 2026-05-24T15:55:24+08:00 Showdown at Tanglin Club sees new rival slate elected to general committee https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/da6832b716f634dc8f28c16f57afc8962fc64d342a28352faf74e228b6438449 Among the issues in contention are plans to spend S$7 million for Green Mark certification and another S$5 million on pickleball court construction. Among the issues in contention are plans to spend S$7 million for Green Mark certification and another S$5 million on pickleball court construction. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/warshs-fed-regime-change-may-require-patience-consensus The Business Times en 2026-05-24T14:31:30+08:00 Warsh’s Fed ‘regime change’ may require patience, consensus https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/44037e7c2c39117638d94058b8b2857956535be2ab576d874fd1261b4197d05a Kevin Warsh, chairman of the US Federal Reserve, has told senators during his confirmation hearing that the central bank’s communications with the public and investors need “big changes”.. Kevin Warsh, chairman of the US Federal Reserve, has told senators during his confirmation hearing that the central bank’s communications with the public and investors need “big changes”.. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/deadly-coal-mine-blast-chinas-shanxi-tests-limits-president-xis-energy-security-push The Business Times en 2026-05-24T13:17:35+08:00 Deadly coal mine blast in China’s Shanxi tests limits of President Xi’s energy security push https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c4131d62bb426f481722b2503f6102721aa1292607c14aec31fd5541931467ca Rescuers work at the site on May 23 following a gas explosion at Liushenyu coal mine in China's Shanxi province. Rescuers work at the site on May 23 following a gas explosion at Liushenyu coal mine in China's Shanxi province.