https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/new-zealand-central-bank-unexpectedly-holds-rates-signals-likely-hikes The Business Times en 2026-10-28T11:19:05+08:00 New Zealand central bank unexpectedly holds rates, signals likely hikes https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/93e4b9e2f4289dc46b715fd23090cddb36ea7dc26f186e5f4168d43a24bc98ee The cash rate is well below its peak of 5.5% in August 2024, after the central bank embarked on a rapid easing cycle as the economy struggled and inflation eased. The cash rate is well below its peak of 5.5% in August 2024, after the central bank embarked on a rapid easing cycle as the economy struggled and inflation eased. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/why-west-fire?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-28T11:03:31+08:00 Why the West is on fire https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2f759495cf46ff9c661db9e44c6b0749858cdb482b7a92a0711dc9153ca8fc95 French protestors’ grievances include 54 billion euros in public spending cuts, overcrowded classrooms and rising fuel and food prices. French protestors’ grievances include 54 billion euros in public spending cuts, overcrowded classrooms and rising fuel and food prices. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/over-8-10-businesses-tap-tokenised-money-expansion-liquidity-management-dbs-survey?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-28T10:00:00+08:00 Over 8 in 10 businesses tap tokenised money for expansion, liquidity management: DBS survey https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6ac7e0cdee7e48f481645ed5080888da74a2e53e0c3f53ed448c41afa827cf2d Lim Soon Chong, group head of global transaction services at DBS, expects investment in tokenised money to catch up and potentially exceed that of traditional money in two to three years. Lim Soon Chong, group head of global transaction services at DBS, expects investment in tokenised money to catch up and potentially exceed that of traditional money in two to three years. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/meta-rolls-out-consumer-ai-agent-singapore-amid-global-safety-retail-pushback?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-28T09:57:33+08:00 Meta rolls out consumer AI agent in Singapore amid global safety, retail pushback https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2b125190f7d3f0f8d94064a9162526be09f710a6a2b5afad5e0a9aed0df2cdcd Muse’s rollout here follows its global debut in the United States and Canada on Sept 8, and a subsequent launch in Japan on Oct 23. Muse’s rollout here follows its global debut in the United States and Canada on Sept 8, and a subsequent launch in Japan on Oct 23. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/anthropic-said-pick-jpmorgan-lead-ipos-us-retail-offering The Business Times en 2026-10-28T09:14:59+08:00 Anthropic said to pick JPMorgan to lead IPO’s US retail offering https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/edbdb344a9d985f4aefddbaa70617a331a9ddf1a21a0ec189b999662e206ebf1 Anthropic’s IPO includes offerings in Australia, Canada, Japan, certain European Economic Area countries, Switzerland and the UK, according to the IPO filing. Anthropic’s IPO includes offerings in Australia, Canada, Japan, certain European Economic Area countries, Switzerland and the UK, according to the IPO filing. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/ambanis-jio-make-mumbai-trading-debut-after-record-us3-2-billion-india-ipo The Business Times en 2026-10-28T08:56:37+08:00 Ambani’s Jio to make Mumbai trading debut after record US$3.2 billion India IPO https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/73a862c1554993f30c6230d438eeda0500f69bf24ecc515645607c448b66fee0 Several brokerages called Jio Platforms’ US$108.3 billion valuation attractive, with some pointing to potential upside. Several brokerages called Jio Platforms’ US$108.3 billion valuation attractive, with some pointing to potential upside. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/keppel-reit-9m-distributable-income-rises-24-4-s179-9-million?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-28T08:41:05+08:00 Keppel Reit 9M distributable income rises 24.4% to S$179.9 million https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3630aac2d187c0ec4be8d8340eeac79908d6bd6329e96e4268c110f1941068b8 image of keppel reit’s top ryde city shopping centre Keppel Reit’s Top Ryde Shopping Centre contributes to the Reit’s distributable income from operations. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/stocks-watch-seatrium-mit-keppel-reit-clint-ui-boustead-reit-digital-core-reit-st-engineering?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-28T08:39:12+08:00 Stocks to watch: Seatrium, MIT, Keppel Reit, Clint, UI Boustead Reit, Digital Core Reit, ST Engineering https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/869e37e6f221c7d20e992c51307cdf9dd82760b7729ff5f1be206377fffd4416 Seatrium and Karpowership aim to create an integrated platform spanning infrastructure development, financing, engineering, construction and operations. Seatrium and Karpowership aim to create an integrated platform spanning infrastructure development, financing, engineering, construction and operations. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/gold-holds-above-us4000-traders-look-us-fed-rate-decision The Business Times en 2026-10-28T08:32:34+08:00 Gold holds above US$4,000 as traders look to US Fed rate decision https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6bdd3a636e17d7d318750d82ce80220950721d102e43c23a3e1109bebdfdf9d1 The Fed is widely tipped to hold rates steady this week – supportive for gold, which does not pay interest. The Fed is widely tipped to hold rates steady this week – supportive for gold, which does not pay interest. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capitaland-india-trust-q3-net-property-income-down-8-cent-rupee-weakness?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-28T08:19:49+08:00 CapitaLand India Trust Q3 net property income down 8 per cent on rupee weakness https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1022e6dff12378d3d0ca3fd5600166a2c7e851ceb4bc33f47774083baf5b19d3 The International Tech Park Bangalore. Clint’s manager notes that the development of the office tower MTB 7 there is on track for completion in Q3 2027. The International Tech Park Bangalore. Clint’s manager notes that the development of the office tower MTB 7 there is on track for completion in Q3 2027. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/sk-hynix-unveils-us75-billion-shareholder-return-plan-after-posting-record-profit The Business Times en 2026-10-28T08:03:31+08:00 SK Hynix unveils US$75 billion shareholder return plan after posting record profit https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6a56563e5c4cad689ce29d724d46fd47a5b253fde7b44a58df8c9327a08763e9 SK Hynix reported operating profit of 83.3 trillion won for July-September, a quarterly record, versus 11.4 trillion won in the same period a year earlier. SK Hynix reported operating profit of 83.3 trillion won for July-September, a quarterly record, versus 11.4 trillion won in the same period a year earlier. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/asian-stocks-set-gain-resurgent-ai-optimism The Business Times en 2026-10-28T07:51:17+08:00 Asian stocks set to gain on resurgent AI optimism https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3de6624187f4a7ac2f3b68a5e9263df0510f400bf29fad214d756ba8d61907e9 Equity-index futures for South Korea, Australia and Japan pointed higher after a closely watched gauge of US chipmakers jumped 3.6%. Equity-index futures for South Korea, Australia and Japan pointed higher after a closely watched gauge of US chipmakers jumped 3.6%. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/when-did-entry-level-jobs-stop-being-beginners?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-28T07:00:00+08:00 When did entry-level jobs stop being for beginners? https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b28e001da40fabff8878084038d2a5d10f0491621b094b03cdd2cc1e4ed171ac Companies should recognise that fresh graduates have little or no work experience, and play a role in helping them develop the skills they need. Companies should recognise that fresh graduates have little or no work experience, and play a role in helping them develop the skills they need. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/five-lessons-payment-security-ai-hasnt-made-obsolete The Business Times en 2026-10-28T07:00:00+08:00 Five lessons in payment security that AI hasn’t made obsolete https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/fdf0138973113c45192dfd9cbdf72cabd5d3d7b75d4d1d49df02895090227c1a The controls that already secure card data and payment infrastructure, applied with the same rigour to AI, close most of the gap that matters. The controls that already secure card data and payment infrastructure, applied with the same rigour to AI, close most of the gap that matters. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/anthropics-ipo-goldman-and-morgan-stanley-slug-it-out-top-bank The Business Times en 2026-10-28T07:00:00+08:00 In Anthropic’s IPO, Goldman and Morgan Stanley slug it out for top bank https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2520cfee1e8281e6dc5591c18644176f469d28c4248e875644c483af3f85d7d0 A news ticker displays Anthropic IPO news on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. The AI company has named both Goldman and Morgan Stanley as lead underwriters on its upcoming initial public offering. In Anthropic’s IPO prospectus, Goldman is listed as “lead left” bank, and Morgan Stanley is the “stabilisation agent”. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/plantation-stocks-trading-sizeable-upside-after-haze-induced-sell-ocbc?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-28T07:00:00+08:00 Plantation stocks trading at ‘sizeable’ upside after haze-induced sell-off: OCBC https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d70f89c8b848b2cfa0b43b1e5aedb7c65354ce97c3ecb40c2dbe105d0b0784df During the 2015 haze crisis, share prices of SGX-listed plantation companies corrected sharply in late July before recovering in late September. During the 2015 haze crisis, share prices of SGX-listed plantation companies corrected sharply in late July before recovering in late September. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/seas-financial-services-arm-monee-should-consider-ipo-sgx?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-28T07:00:00+08:00 Sea’s financial services arm Monee should consider an IPO on SGX https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/050af427aa831d0ad9001946661dc0381bd9d3c9cadbf2c6f4067aa3577791e1 Monee runs the payment services and loans on Sea’s e-commerce platform Shopee and gaming platform Garena. Monee runs the payment services and loans on Sea’s e-commerce platform Shopee and gaming platform Garena. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/israeli-exit-polls-show-deadlock-setback-netanyahu The Business Times en 2026-10-28T06:46:14+08:00 Israeli exit polls show deadlock, setback for Netanyahu https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/56b5618cc743c86f4270991df7ba3735fcd93ff4ecf9edfe9ebb8a69702ad1a8 Supporters holding a banner featuring Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu react to exit poll results at Netanyahu’s Likud party headquarters in Jerusalem on Oct 27. Supporters holding a banner featuring Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu react to exit poll results at Netanyahu’s Likud party headquarters in Jerusalem on Oct 27. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/oil-falls-almost-us2-middle-east-talks-help-ease-supply-worries The Business Times en 2026-10-28T06:25:52+08:00 Oil falls almost US$2 as Middle East talks help ease supply worries https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d397c68d2cdf479a3eb7547ff1947aeeab6da845c4afa704e0469040df2454da October has been the worst month for attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and nearby waterways. October has been the worst month for attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and nearby waterways. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/european-shares-shrug-hsbc-miss-other-earnings-oil-relief-lift-sentiment The Business Times en 2026-10-28T06:14:47+08:00 European shares shrug off HSBC miss as other earnings, oil relief lift sentiment https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/745b560285a0503bbc70d2a3ea0f59cf0949d0cc23ec9e35d1521627c6447fbb The pan-European Stoxx 600 index rose 0.47% to 643.68 points, after falling as much as 0.41% earlier in the day. The pan-European Stoxx 600 index rose 0.47% to 643.68 points, after falling as much as 0.41% earlier in the day. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/us-stocks-wall-street-ends-higher-revived-ai-momentum The Business Times en 2026-10-28T06:05:41+08:00 US stocks: Wall Street ends higher on revived AI momentum https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/699c8b3f155ede9099c30f6256f2b12588ab096b84e560d648b3ab8b76e572cb The S&P 500 posted 11 new 52-week highs and six new lows while the Nasdaq Composite recorded 62 new highs and 239 new lows. The S&P 500 posted 11 new 52-week highs and six new lows while the Nasdaq Composite recorded 62 new highs and 239 new lows. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/innovative-finance-tools-can-help-ensure-workers-arent-left-behind-shift-away-coal-report?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-28T06:00:00+08:00 Innovative finance tools can help ensure workers aren’t left behind in shift away from coal: report https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/beb101402c74052b5fe565a393273c84e94d3050f0fd735f62e63b8f13e133be The Coal Transition Commission has identified three primary hurdles governments face in financing a well-planned shift away from coal. The Coal Transition Commission has identified three primary hurdles governments face in financing a well-planned shift away from coal. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/boeing-shares-plummet-slower-737-production-and-free-cash-flow-growth-outlook The Business Times en 2026-10-27T23:42:31+08:00 Boeing shares plummet on slower 737 production and free cash flow growth outlook  https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/82000e80f103b86c209f053713ef0c9bf49170a75143be4bdb501cd6c76d2b93 A 737 Max 10 aeroplane at a Boeing facility in Washington, US. Boeing will not hit its delivery target for 737 jets in 2026. Boeing will not hit its delivery target for 737 jets this year. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/mi-materials-public-offer-77-5-million-shares-2-1-times-subscribed?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T23:12:47+08:00 Mi Material’s public offer of 77.5 million shares 2.1 times subscribed https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/67d447fb1fc5c7cd5ffae1f89b8610e5fb9a15d36d9ddd915646f17be6b7a8bd Mi Material CEO and executive director Kevin Tan (left) with the company’s executive director Heng Kok Lin. Mi Material CEO and executive director Kevin Tan (left) with the company’s executive director Heng Kok Lin. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/mpact-singapore-land-enter-top-tier-global-esg-benchmark-real-estate-hongkong-land-slips?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T22:29:18+08:00 MPACT, Singapore Land enter top tier of global ESG benchmark for real estate; Hongkong Land slips https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/00a76e47b4ec928db80c68694e89a234663a299a9432d84987e94dc3d3569426 VivoCity is a key asset in the portfolio of Mapletree Pan Asia Commercial Trust, now a global sector leader in the GRESB report. VivoCity is a key asset in the portfolio of Mapletree Pan Asia Commercial Trust, now a global sector leader in the GRESB report. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/yemens-houthis-say-they-hit-saudi-ras-tanura-oil-refinery-missile The Business Times en 2026-10-27T22:26:36+08:00 Yemen’s Houthis say they hit Saudi Ras Tanura oil refinery with missile https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/9b3b14bc4bace4f66e6560fa17defa3aecb3afdc7d637ccacc4111b58aceace3 The strike caused a fire at the oil refinery. Saudi authorities did not immediately confirm the strike. The strike caused a fire at the oil refinery. Saudi authorities did not immediately confirm the strike. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/us-stocks-sp-500-nasdaq-open-higher-oil-pulls-back-ahead-fed-decision The Business Times en 2026-10-27T22:21:34+08:00 US stocks: S&P 500, Nasdaq open higher as oil pulls back ahead of Fed decision https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/dee0bf1343b9f6f42882f435eae3788f9353b75585e2db438eb05c8f9f3950ec The Nasdaq Composite gained 116.9 points, or 0.45 per cent, to 26,286.306 on Tuesday morning. The Nasdaq Composite gained 116.9 points, or 0.45 per cent, to 26,286.306 on Tuesday morning. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/us-core-capital-goods-rise-september-shipments-accelerate The Business Times en 2026-10-27T21:50:44+08:00 US core capital goods rise in September; shipments accelerate https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5740d14e4e1dee7c45081e4f08d8a31c2601c9b8f42c850f35385a59de658c73 Business spending on equipment has experienced two straight quarters of double-digit growth, largely fuelled by aggressive investment in AI. Business spending on equipment has experienced two straight quarters of double-digit growth, largely fuelled by aggressive investment in AI. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/mapletree-industrial-trust-posts-6-6-drop-q2-dpu-s0-0297?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T21:32:55+08:00 Mapletree Industrial Trust posts 6.6% drop in Q2 DPU to S$0.0297 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0ffd6e9056a0cd695f65fcf70eae9545d57dbc4902f417978e80ddf415aa7e0c Mapletree’s manager noted that the fall in DPU and NPI was partially mitigated by higher revenue from new leases and renewals under its Singapore portfolio. Mapletree’s manager noted that the fall in DPU and NPI was partially mitigated by higher revenue from new leases and renewals under its Singapore portfolio. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/quant-firms-are-racing-fund-phds-build-labs-ai-talent-war-goes The Business Times en 2026-10-27T21:17:12+08:00 Quant firms are racing to fund PhDs, build labs as the AI talent war goes on https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d66a5c734493d31bc2c62c76ec9c43f4c941bc0b05fa6fe09c2024b27a46831a A blurred image of a keyboard and monitor. The AI boom has given mathematicians and physicists in Wall Street’s quant firms another set of deep-pocketed suitors. Internal labs can help attract scientists and give them room to pursue longer-term research that may eventually improve trading models. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/thailand-sets-new-rules-data-centres-applications-surge?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T21:08:02+08:00 Thailand sets new rules for data centres as applications surge https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b762f37d277b3a6f6988aec2d1163db6aadace5259aece8ce4103c93612d35d2 Thailand has seen a wave of data centre investments in recent years, prompting the government to scrutinise their impact. Thailand has seen a wave of data centre investments in recent years, prompting the government to scrutinise their impact. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/health-wellness/singapores-st-lukes-hospital-launches-primary-care-palliative-programme?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T21:03:21+08:00 Singapore’s St Luke’s hospital launches primary-care palliative programme https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/26ec331ab54ab3c2ec4d91e0da35e700f199358598dd7fa85b07ec5d210d69bf Dr Andrew Samson of St Luke's Hospital says Opal aims to give earlier access to palliative care to elderly patients. Dr Andrew Samson of St Luke's Hospital says Opal aims to give earlier access to palliative care to elderly patients. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/chinas-xi-calls-japan-protect-political-foundation-ties The Business Times en 2026-10-27T20:43:27+08:00 China’s Xi calls on Japan to protect political foundation of ties https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/bc5134cabffb11ee82f7a84d59af3f75268b08138a2e566e0637247ede8bc0fa Former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda died on Thursday from heart failure at 90. Former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda died on Thursday from heart failure at 90. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/k-pop-agency-jyps-shares-soar-after-groups-announce-tender-offer-50-stake The Business Times en 2026-10-27T20:41:45+08:00 K-pop agency JYP’s shares soar after groups announce tender offer for up to 50% stake https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/50468201edd7db78179ca9c576bc53f2488e520559f51a493b05495cf2ae9f6a K-pop girl group Twice perform during the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in New York City. Twice are part of JYP’s roster of K-pop acts. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/greenback-firms-ahead-central-bank-meetings-steadier-stocks-stall-safe-haven-play?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T20:35:07+08:00 Greenback firms ahead of central bank meetings, steadier stocks stall safe haven play https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/9e0033a701fdca72480b4066e266561997629d16a7f8add1d4c5a611b9813353 The US dollar is being helped by greater calm in the equity market, which was roiled last week by renewed worries about high-flying AI stocks. The US dollar is being helped by greater calm in the equity market, which was roiled last week by renewed worries about high-flying AI stocks. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/ui-boustead-reit-posts-maiden-dpu-s0-0371-shade-ahead-ipo-forecast?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T20:14:47+08:00 UI Boustead Reit posts maiden DPU of S$0.0371, a shade ahead of IPO forecast https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/300b1c75f5f4a36d2ea020bd2d259aedd3b2a8fca33f707c4bb4aa64fb61efa5 UI Boustead Reit’s portfolio comprises 23 completed properties – 21 in Singapore and two properties in Japan – valued at a total of around S$1.9 billion. UI Boustead Reit’s portfolio comprises 23 completed properties – 21 in Singapore and two properties in Japan – valued at a total of around S$1.9 billion. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/consumer-healthcare/coca-cola-lifts-profit-forecast-global-soda-demand-holds-firm The Business Times en 2026-10-27T20:14:16+08:00 Coca-Cola lifts profit forecast as global soda demand holds firm https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5aed334e635d8051e57fc6d27845ce101780abe2f9ff897ef1c6e0175ec3e322 Coca-Cola has sought to win over increasingly selective consumers with smaller, cheaper packs in the US. Coca-Cola has sought to win over increasingly selective consumers with smaller, cheaper packs in the US. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/esg/policy-reforms-needed-decarbonise-singapores-industrial-heating-report?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T19:52:17+08:00 Policy reforms needed to decarbonise Singapore’s industrial heating: report https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5b2a8c959e8cf016bd1aff9b15d7a204107fccbbba630654f313fc3ef6992325 A significant share of Singapore’s emissions is concentrated on Jurong Island, where integrated petrochemical and chemical clusters dominate. A significant share of Singapore’s emissions is concentrated on Jurong Island, where integrated petrochemical and chemical clusters dominate. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/paypal-raises-2026-profit-forecast-turnaround-gains-traction The Business Times en 2026-10-27T19:51:02+08:00 PayPal raises 2026 profit forecast as turnaround gains traction https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ff9d411b4772c7002c7e9bcbfc3b7f15c58f85a431ffef345aeb77b571cfd23e Paypal’s revenue of US$8.6 billion in the third quarter was slightly below estimates of US$8.7 billion.  Paypal’s revenue of US$8.6 billion in the third quarter was slightly below estimates of US$8.7 billion.  https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/singapore-indonesia-form-task-force-pursue-firms-linked-forest-fires?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T19:42:01+08:00 Singapore, Indonesia to form task force to pursue firms linked to forest fires https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7f136fedbd3e8d139947240563cc0195818ecc08ddc517e86ce8ea81cf942cb6 Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan (left) and Indonesia’s Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Christiawan Nasir. Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan (left) and Indonesia’s Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Christiawan Nasir agree that Indonesians are the first victims of the haze. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/ocbc-asia-pacifics-strongest-bank-and-third-globally-asian-banker?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T19:10:09+08:00 OCBC is Asia-Pacific’s strongest bank and third globally: The Asian Banker https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/bff708e76932af26ac402d5847024230dbe62adc4fdf46d3c5e4cab2239ad199 OCBC is a top performer in the STI in 2026, with its share price rising 46.8% in the year to Oct 23. OCBC is a top performer in the STI in 2026, with its share price rising 46.8% in the year to Oct 23. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/st-engineering-bags-s5-6-billion-new-contracts-q3-2026?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T19:03:31+08:00 ST Engineering bags S$5.6 billion in new contracts for Q3 2026 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a61bc60b88fb557bfc8157473cd87347515908cf5c79d581b653b38b63fa9569 ST Engineering logo Some S$2.4 billion worth of new contracts is secured by its urban solutions and satcom segment, says ST Engineering. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/daily-debrief-what-happened-today-oct-271?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T18:45:00+08:00 Daily Debrief: What Happened Today (Oct 27) https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/dcf9d47705604858bc873dc0d32cc68022eb30b1368cabc32681689ee653b37e In 2025, 70 listed entities, or 11.4% of the total 615 entities, did not appoint a lead independent director despite having a non-independent chairman. In 2025, 70 listed entities, or 11.4% of the total 615 entities, did not appoint a lead independent director despite having a non-independent chairman. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/singapore-shares-fall-amid-mixed-regional-showing-sti-drops-0-3?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T18:32:17+08:00 Singapore shares fall amid mixed regional showing; STI drops 0.3% https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b4cf9416583b78420092f550744ec985d5f2c73574630b90ac514e732d6881d7 The worst performer among STI constituents is Thai Beverage, which is down 3.4% at S$0.425. The worst performer among STI constituents is Thai Beverage, which is down 3.4% at S$0.425. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/digital-core-reit-guides-about-17-dpu-growth-2027-9m-distributable-income-dips-1-1?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T18:05:58+08:00 Digital Core Reit guides about 17% DPU growth for 2027; 9M distributable income dips 1.1% https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e9b7feb98538107b94bfd35b60779dfd25c5ef8e2b8636466271694ebfbc21ca Digital Core Reit’s data centre in Osaka, Japan. Digital Core Reit has 11 data centres, including a facility in Osaka, Japan. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/wrong-way-compare-economic-size The Business Times en 2026-10-27T18:00:00+08:00 The wrong way to compare economic size https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7d0e0991b3f008e49834369c4d922df467833b08c6b11d8aba8d4675ef2f8b24 When evaluated at its exchange rate, China may not have eclipsed the US in economic size as previously believed. When evaluated at its exchange rate, China may not have eclipsed the US in economic size as previously believed. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/seatrium-karpowership-develop-floating-power-digital-infrastructure-solutions-singapore?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T18:00:00+08:00 Seatrium, Karpowership to develop floating power, digital infrastructure solutions in Singapore https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a04e1a460312b65486d203f2332584e31aa67a9113ef88772c5a56329138fcf4 Seatrium says the move is a strategic opportunity to extend its role across the energy infrastructure value chain. Seatrium says the move is a strategic opportunity to extend its role across the energy infrastructure value chain. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/us-plans-two-month-extension-shipping-fee-truce-china The Business Times en 2026-10-27T17:53:27+08:00 US plans two-month extension to shipping-fee truce with China https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b66d827551a2d722a6c45968045f8c9c05b0474f235c5df6077c80c38f241475 The reciprocal fees imposed last year meant that Chinese- or US-linked ships faced millions of dollars of charges for calling at each others’ ports. The reciprocal fees imposed last year meant that Chinese- or US-linked ships faced millions of dollars of charges for calling at each others’ ports. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/chinese-households-are-buying-golds-dip-prices-test-us4000 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T17:31:07+08:00 Chinese households are buying gold’s dip as prices test US$4,000 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/77f9f1185bba44ed3633e688a234f76d91dba2e9bd65c31e59f4c049299bd7b0 “Domestic gold demand is increasingly running against the price trend, strengthening as prices fall,” said Zijie Wu, an analyst at Jinrui Futures. “Domestic gold demand is increasingly running against the price trend, strengthening as prices fall,” said Zijie Wu, an analyst at Jinrui Futures. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/chairmans-role-spotlight-raft-proposed-new-rules-singapore-boards?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T17:30:00+08:00 Chairman’s role in spotlight with raft of proposed new rules for Singapore boards https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8138001ab73de1bcea42f49ec32e7e2bd67fe83bfa5c2107f75910955eafc7b2 In 2025, 70 listed entities, or 11.4% of the total 615 entities, did not appoint a lead independent director despite having a non-independent chairman. In 2025, 70 listed entities, or 11.4% of the total 615 entities, did not appoint a lead independent director despite having a non-independent chairman. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/incoming/gallery/photo-gallery?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T17:03:50+08:00 Photo Gallery https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/european-shares-fall-hsbc-weighs-france-protests-keep-investors-wary The Business Times en 2026-10-27T16:53:44+08:00 European shares fall as HSBC weighs, France protests keep investors wary https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f75950ca06c034ebfe74e6c3ae184fd425cb257390b26184c60177b1b3633e77 The Stoxx 600 index was down 0.2 per cent at 639.64 points by 0805 GMT on Tuesday. The Stoxx 600 index was down 0.2 per cent at 639.64 points by 0805 GMT on Tuesday. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/ifast-eyes-growth-opportunity-underserved-mass-market-banking-segment?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T16:33:00+08:00 iFast eyes growth opportunity in underserved mass-market banking segment https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8c2432026836bfc971e89cd9deb36fd97b342fcb0d9749ccc363c37a05bf57b6 Lim Chung Chun, group CEO, iFast. Group CEO Lim Chung Chun says iFast’s priority is to maintain a business model that can deliver robust organic growth. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/singapore-germany-collaborate-ai-use-industries-step-research-new-tech?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T16:29:50+08:00 Singapore, Germany to collaborate on AI use in industries, step up research on new tech https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d1dccf10f02ab0b942e4e4d44cfb09e63e50d35e09bd10b56ba29671f278735d Singapore PM Lawrence Wong (right) and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at a joint press conference at the Parliament House on Oct 27. Singapore PM Lawrence Wong (right) and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at a joint press conference at the Parliament House on Oct 27. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/startup-granted-permit-ship-raw-rare-earths-malaysia-us-research-ceo The Business Times en 2026-10-27T16:27:32+08:00 Startup granted permit to ship raw rare earths from Malaysia to US for research: CEO https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ff0ef3cac14d2871d80c5441bd9e93f4d92f513f09b8c16efa5d5933548c2a9f The material will be sent to US companies and research institutions to test technologies for separating and refining rare-earth elements. The material will be sent to US companies and research institutions to test technologies for separating and refining rare-earth elements. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/style-travel/chinas-beauty-brands-flush-success-home-start-vie-global-shelf-space The Business Times en 2026-10-27T16:16:09+08:00 China’s beauty brands, flush with success at home, start to vie for global shelf space https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4c7aeeef91b55f4ed628a437f2626a4a86069ad9ab097161f675865bd4de3a38 People walk past a Florasis store in Shanghai, China. Florasis is among the C-beauty brands expanding their presence beyond China. Florasis is among the C-beauty brands expanding their presence beyond China. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/chinas-industrial-profit-growth-picks-amid-deepening-economic-divergence The Business Times en 2026-10-27T15:54:34+08:00 China’s industrial profit growth picks up amid deepening economic divergence https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a787c4202ccd1ae45bdc03c041bbb079630b8aeeb711cb2ca31115559a08db69 Profits at industrial firms rose 14.4% from a year earlier last month. Profits at industrial firms rose 14.4% from a year earlier last month. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/events-awards/business-times-clinches-two-silvers-wan-ifra-asian-media-awards?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T15:47:52+08:00 The Business Times clinches two silvers at Wan-Ifra Asian Media Awards https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f8e5dac02a0c9c099b6f0718980febee2147188b892ae2a934550bc9271dd694 BT journalist Goh Ruoxue (centre) is flanked by young audience editor Daryl Choo (left) and his deputy Andrew Wong at the Asian Media Awards ceremony on Oct 26. BT journalist Goh Ruoxue (centre) is flanked by young audience editor Daryl Choo (left) and his deputy Andrew Wong at the Asian Media Awards ceremony on Oct 26. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/china-property-woes-strain-guangdong-government-owned-groups-us62-billion-debt The Business Times en 2026-10-27T15:43:11+08:00 China property woes strain Guangdong government-owned group’s US$62 billion debt https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/92b903e39b0b8f7afc1573ae826fc575d03ee2152a7e8c58863b2fd0d6acd755 The Nanshan Central Business District in Shenzhen, Guangdong. Local government-owned Zhuhai Huafa has missed payments on two trust products that were due recently,  Zhuhai Huafa has developed more than 200 residential projects in China. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/singapore-appoints-consultants-ahead-un-nuclear-watchdogs-review-2027?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T15:42:14+08:00 Singapore appoints consultants ahead of UN nuclear watchdog’s review in 2027 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5682ae3d6a6f1f9028045538a4ec31667f6e3f1cb47e868f262afa087dea234c Puah Kok Keong, chief executive officer of Singapore’s Energy Market Authority. EMA CEO Puah Kok Keong says there is a need to develop capabilities “to rigorously assess the safety and suitability of nuclear energy”. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/hike-or-hold-fed-chief-warsh-faces-another-tough-choice-rate-decision?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T15:39:05+08:00 Hike or hold: Fed chief Warsh faces another tough choice on rate decision https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/53b4c36acc2a99417649f1b1ffcbb32713ce693c245a730cbb4fbc2ccd720acc US Fed chair Kevin Warsh (right) with IMF's Kristalina Georgieva. Even if the Fed doesn’t hike rates, the former will have to address the central bank’s inflation-fighting plans. US Fed chair Kevin Warsh (right) with IMF's Kristalina Georgieva. Even if the Fed doesn’t hike rates, the former will have to address the central bank’s inflation-fighting plans. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/japans-trend-inflation-index-hits-3-year-high-cements-case-boj-rate-hike The Business Times en 2026-10-27T15:25:41+08:00 Japan’s trend inflation index hits 3-year high, cements case for BOJ rate hike https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/85fa8cb9b9dda56535d7aacfca1c88d9a0b9f530b549d2a883a4de12842b0a09 Japan’s core CPI jumped 3.2 per cent in September from a year earlier.  Japan’s core CPI jumped 3.2 per cent in September from a year earlier.  https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/wealth/wealth-investing/are-higher-bond-yields-good-banks-think-again The Business Times en 2026-10-27T15:00:00+08:00 Are higher bond yields good for banks? Think again https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/14207ff6f1342716820379abd0e03e6424e23e4c9e7f65cd213c4148b6223542 Instead of rising in tandem with yields, the global financial sector, including banking stocks, came under pressure and underperformed global equities. Instead of rising in tandem with yields, the global financial sector, including banking stocks, came under pressure and underperformed global equities. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/wealth/wealth-investing/markets-tread-narrower-path-less-room-error The Business Times en 2026-10-27T15:00:00+08:00 Markets tread a narrower path with less room for error https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f6625b6a8ca8bb7b81b7d6c90f740847686730b61c1fc7483efb3e107b65c3c8 Five US hyperscalers, including Meta, are expected to spend around US$1 trillion to US$1.2 trillion in 2027. Five US hyperscalers, including Meta, are expected to spend around US$1 trillion to US$1.2 trillion in 2027. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/wealth/wealth-investing/singapore-shines-global-diversification-still-matters The Business Times en 2026-10-27T15:00:00+08:00 Singapore shines, but global diversification still matters https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/de5515e91293ec27270fac7444f64a966a73c283b5680094107f6d0924980d99 The Singapore Exchange. Four Xtrackers UCITS ETFs listed on SGX offer different approaches to global equity markets, while still trading locally. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/wealth/wealth-investing/wealth-transfer-handover-starts-long-inheritance The Business Times en 2026-10-27T15:00:00+08:00 Wealth transfer: Handover starts long before the inheritance https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6009452698421714e1576c666b3b7bc79a136d95d280117e8164db57c4d63ffe Firms should measure the time from transfer to the first substantive advice discussion and shorten it. AI may be used to speed up onboarding and asset transfers. Firms should measure the time from transfer to the first substantive advice discussion and shorten it. AI may be used to speed up onboarding and asset transfers. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/uk-set-raise-pay-floor-4-burnham-seeks-cost-living-fix The Business Times en 2026-10-27T14:58:32+08:00 UK set to raise pay floor 4% as Burnham seeks cost of living fix https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/92442b7bf89153a5696816d71b4cd3de2493fca8b8162ee36de04ba12d62ad60 Joblessness among those aged 16 to 24 rose above 16 per cent earlier this year, its highest level in more than a decade. Joblessness among those aged 16 to 24 rose above 16 per cent earlier this year, its highest level in more than a decade. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/dont-expect-supersize-profits-anthropic-any-time-soon The Business Times en 2026-10-27T14:45:27+08:00 Don’t expect supersize profits from Anthropic any time soon https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/484275a3dab2d9cedb7c91b515344913a9aaa852725dd3ee2567f83eabc37042 image of anthropic logo Anthropic will soon undergo an IPO that will be, if not the largest of all time, then certainly close to it. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/moodys-sees-positive-shift-japans-growth-resilience-remains-key-test The Business Times en 2026-10-27T14:15:48+08:00 Moody’s sees positive shift in Japan’s growth, resilience remains key test https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/622daab7c2cb2c63f83a396d76e18b789d1e45d7a16ddf3de47ea0e721bc1d3b A key test is whether Japan can maintain growth and inflation stability through future economic shocks, said a Moody’s vice-president. A key test is whether Japan can maintain growth and inflation stability through future economic shocks, said a Moody’s vice-president. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/hsbcs-quarterly-profit-jumps-shares-slide-after-flat-revenue-wealth-business The Business Times en 2026-10-27T13:46:56+08:00 HSBC’s quarterly profit jumps but shares slide after flat revenue for wealth business https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a3796b6ac27c78fc85b9d6d29b0f442db95937344ab374133a2fef29943eca0f Pretax profit came in at US$9.6 billion for the July-September quarter. Pretax profit came in at US$9.6 billion for the July-September quarter. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/singapore-aims-tighten-haze-law-amid-hurdles-gathering-evidence-securing-cooperation-grace-fu?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T13:20:38+08:00 Singapore aims to tighten haze law amid hurdles in gathering evidence, securing cooperation: Grace Fu https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3d26232ca3834e6780020fefb125ea21c391f0cfac35c0f469c4611d0ac82b8b This comes amid the government’s widening probe against firms linked to the ongoing haze episode. This comes amid the government’s widening probe against firms linked to the ongoing haze episode. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/englands-harry-kane-wins-ballon-dor-spains-alexia-putellas-picks-womens-award The Business Times en 2026-10-27T13:18:22+08:00 England’s Harry Kane wins Ballon d’Or; Spain’s Alexia Putellas picks up women’s award https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b701fb9f787092c91acca8a4b3a0a577d1ed8da0063547c7d36cfc46b98901af London City Lionesses’ Alexia Putellas (left) and Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane after winning the Ballon d’Or awards in London. This is Alexia Putellas’ (left) third Ballon d’Or Feminin win, and Harry Kane’s first. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/singapore-listed-india-etf-may-help-foreign-investors-taxes The Business Times en 2026-10-27T12:56:03+08:00 Singapore-listed India ETF may help foreign investors on taxes https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/e3cd9bbdde61442ea4f7898ed52e13cda9ad08ff6f6872dae48bbc9b81f1bbf5 Time is “ripe” to launch an ETF providing investors a “low-cost and transparent” solution to access India, said Jermyn Wong from UTI International Singapore.  Time is “ripe” to launch an ETF providing investors a “low-cost and transparent” solution to access India, said Jermyn Wong from UTI International Singapore.  https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/making-payments-invisible-next-competitive-edge-businesses The Business Times en 2026-10-27T12:55:28+08:00 Making payments invisible is the next competitive edge for businesses https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/448b108b1e7e67768fe68a0da4d75e046151ef42affadce67fe466cef84ce539 A person scanning a QR code to make a payment. Project Nexus is connecting Asean real-time payment systems, meaning a QR code scanned in one market settles a transaction as easily as one scanned at home. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/microsoft-offer-buyouts-60000-workers-new-cost-cut The Business Times en 2026-10-27T12:10:37+08:00 Microsoft to offer buyouts to 60,000 workers in new cost cut https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/07bdace1ec89c4adf2fca112b91bde6b7844f3b95c7d9d4fc4188e6cee858785 Some personnel in the US, Canada, India and the UK at a vice-president level and below will be eligible, said a Microsoft spokesperson.   Some personnel in the US, Canada, India and the UK at a vice-president level and below will be eligible, said a Microsoft spokesperson.   https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/energy-market-authority-awards-s14-9-million-grants-strengthen-power-grid?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T11:51:37+08:00 Energy Market Authority awards S$14.9 million in grants to strengthen power grid https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/08d7073a7f029176f07d145c1aa09c9af2fb0b75fa6ffcb66ec68a0595130a5d The Energy Market Authority says the projects will allow distributed resources to contribute more actively to grid operations. The Energy Market Authority says the projects will allow distributed resources to contribute more actively to grid operations. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/indias-it-sector-grapples-uneven-recovery-and-growth-brings-fewer-jobs?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T11:45:39+08:00 India’s IT sector grapples with uneven recovery – and growth that brings fewer jobs https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1f41ca7c3d72aeab39346451b0e8934c72647bff5d5d80d4f7e4fa2e00897016 A man walks through a data centre in Bengaluru, India. India’s IT sector rebounded in October as quarterly earnings offered some relief to investors after months of concerns. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/alibaba-wins-ruling-lobbying-ban-tied-us-blacklisting The Business Times en 2026-10-27T11:21:20+08:00 Alibaba wins ruling on lobbying ban tied to US blacklisting https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/332b40854c9fc499e4b6d354fcfd30dc8b2bb2cceac7c063c2c6f9eb609259f4 Washington lobbying firms cut ties with Alibaba and other Chinese firms after a new law targeting entities allegedly aiding China’s military took effect. Washington lobbying firms cut ties with Alibaba and other Chinese firms after a new law targeting entities allegedly aiding China’s military took effect. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/asian-stocks-surge-anthropic-ipo-lifts-sentiment-ahead-earnings-central-banks The Business Times en 2026-10-27T11:05:24+08:00 Asian stocks surge as Anthropic IPO lifts sentiment ahead of earnings, central banks https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/acdb99c7c1c6bddf490e43a79a965ea3f9066ba84ae43b4342c4c11b2c3d34b6 In stocks, tech-heavy South Korea’s Kospi gained more than 4% in early trading. Japan’s Nikkei was 1.9% higher. In stocks, tech-heavy South Korea’s Kospi gained more than 4% in early trading. Japan’s Nikkei was 1.9% higher. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/enabler-not-disruptor-firms-use-tech-support-persons-disabilities-work?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T11:00:00+08:00 ‘Enabler, not disruptor’: Firms use tech to support persons with disabilities at work https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/5358cf1e0d0e222cb121db38f4079fc348f8511f695a6f268718cb1538091314 A “smart wok” in Metropolitan YMCA’s restaurant in Singapore. The device can be programmed with recipes to help PWDs with cooking. A “smart wok” in Metropolitan YMCA’s restaurant can be programmed with recipes to help persons with disabilities cook. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/director-pr-firm-sacked-secretly-recording-internal-meeting-loses-wrongful-dismissal-claim?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T10:43:58+08:00 Director of PR firm sacked for secretly recording internal meeting loses wrongful dismissal claim https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/cd9600b5923abd020b45bf6118effd9bb2f33ec67272f5ac8129b2a2f5cf9f2e The claimant was fired while serving a three-month notice period after being told that her employment was being terminated without cause. The claimant was fired while serving a three-month notice period after being told that her employment was being terminated without cause. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/singapore-led-asean-network-aims-spot-emerging-labour-market-trends?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T10:30:00+08:00 Singapore-led Asean network aims to spot emerging labour market trends  https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1dd16bc220fcad5f478559c97f4b87e3ba1c9eedf8200120c47ce65aa4125f27 San Lwin (left), Asean deputy secretary-general (socio-cultural community), and Stanley Loh, MOM’s permanent secretary, officiating the launch of the Asean Labour Statisticians Network. San Lwin (left), Asean deputy secretary-general (socio-cultural community), and Stanley Loh, MOM’s permanent secretary, officiating the launch of the Asean Labour Statisticians Network. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/sembcorp-inks-pacts-build-nuclear-energy-knowledge-industry-collaboration?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T10:24:44+08:00 Sembcorp inks pacts to build nuclear energy knowledge, industry collaboration https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b7b2a2a58bdc8b497781a008929ae0d17a7b71d48072dc91596ec17bd08f3832 Signage of Sembcorp Industries outside its office. Nuclear energy is one potential pathway being studied as countries explore longer-term energy sources, says Sembcorp chief operating officer Charles Koh. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/hanois-oldest-luxury-hotel-tested-new-rivals-tourism-wave The Business Times en 2026-10-27T10:15:23+08:00 Hanoi’s oldest luxury hotel tested by new rivals in tourism wave https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b52dd3c482449260bc64950950872a1b569882cc461a70f15ef06b00a1cde50a Tourists take photos along a railway as the train passing through an old quarters streets in Hanoi, Vietnam. High-end hotels are rapidly expanding in Hanoi as the city undergoes its biggest overhaul in decades. High-end hotels are rapidly expanding in Hanoi as the city undergoes its biggest overhaul in decades. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/dfi-retail-group-shares-5-after-rise-q3-underlying-profit?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T10:07:43+08:00 DFI Retail Group shares up 5% after rise in Q3 underlying profit https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f021a3058c644828e389fb388187f87600f16c383c910c8849c547d399493e27 In Q3, DFI said it would assume Maxim’s existing interest in the Starbucks licensed business, a move analysts are positive about. In Q3, DFI said it would assume Maxim’s existing interest in the Starbucks licensed business, a move analysts are positive about. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/ifast-shares-end-slightly-lower-after-posting-rise-q3-profit?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T10:05:05+08:00 iFast shares end slightly lower after posting rise in Q3 profit https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1523c2e601cb9ee7e1783a331ee067c2a73ccd57cd9f6aa32380ee1e93252ec4 The board of directors of iFast has proposed a dividend of S$0.032 a share for Q3. The board of directors of iFast has proposed a dividend of S$0.032 a share for Q3. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/kore-us-reit-9m-net-property-income-rises-3-us63-1-million?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T10:01:06+08:00 Kore US Reit 9M net property income rises 3% to US$63.1 million  https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/9f1519760bb1aef95517ba0278e1f07d00eb64a5fb348c10e6d027d7dfa8df83 The Westpark Portfolio is a freehold business campus comprising 19 office/flex buildings and two industrial properties.  Kore US Reit’s revenue for the first nine months of 2026 is up 2.5% at US$114.9 million. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/startups-tech/startups/consumer-electronics-brand-stryv-raises-us11-5-million-series-b-funding?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T10:00:00+08:00 Consumer electronics brand Stryv raises US$11.5 million Series B funding https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0c256271f4bb9b1d028861e96af9e6564756370cbab8ab2385c0d1340ce60218 Stryv launched the Stryv Oasis massage chair in September, drawing on Sterra’s expertise in home care products. Stryv launched the Stryv Oasis massage chair in September, drawing on Sterra’s expertise in home care products. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/singapore-invests-s150-million-ai-driven-materials-discovery-launches-support-business-ai-adoption?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T10:00:00+08:00 Singapore invests S$150 million in AI-driven materials discovery, launches business AI adoption support https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/810ab5f545a9f6b919cfcd762befce1700efb3501e1b66b0d35d26c68b86dc7b Gan Kim Yong, deputy prime minister and minister for trade and industry (trade), speaking at an event. DPM Gan Kim Yong says: “We must turn AI’s capabilities into new opportunities for our industries, stronger businesses and better jobs for our people.” https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/singapore-updates-renewable-energy-certificate-standard-tackle-greenwashing?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T09:45:36+08:00 Singapore updates renewable energy certificate standard to tackle greenwashing https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6e710faedba82e42d2cad4f33776e24c8d0c2d1f7d31844c76a94b73529ba49f One solution being explored is off-grid power systems that pair containerised solar panels with mobile battery energy storage systems. One solution being explored is off-grid power systems that pair containerised solar panels with mobile battery energy storage systems. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/first-sponsor-posts-14-8-rise-europe-portfolios-q3-operating-income?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T09:36:16+08:00 First Sponsor posts 14.8% rise in Europe portfolio’s Q3 operating income https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/12e61d557a41c57c437419c2ba3fbf445326091a06ba27e49baaf15c0bd94989 Various properties in China First Sponsor says it continues to take a “cautious approach” towards new property financing opportunities in China. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/esr-reit-9m-net-property-income-falls-4-2-s237-5-million?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T09:32:06+08:00 ESR Reit 9M net property income falls 4.2% to S$237.5 million https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a22e6d7cc2729607a0d956b1070e19e3cb657dec0dfe696c11004e8fca34e83a ESR-Reit’s total distributable income for the period is up 1% on the year at S$136 million. ESR-Reit’s total distributable income for the period is up 1% on the year at S$136 million. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/gold-eases-stronger-us-dollar-weighs-fed-meeting-focus The Business Times en 2026-10-27T09:26:15+08:00 Gold eases as stronger US dollar weighs, Fed meeting in focus https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/fa51c89445583ae4c89c912b48b3a1bda6b0a00355f243a9fac54335ea70d46d US gold futures for December delivery dropped 0.3% to US$4,027.10. US gold futures for December delivery dropped 0.3% to US$4,027.10. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/iran-war-boosts-malaysian-data-centre-appeal-sd-guthrie-says The Business Times en 2026-10-27T09:08:29+08:00 Iran war boosts Malaysian data centre appeal, SD Guthrie says https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b762f37d277b3a6f6988aec2d1163db6aadace5259aece8ce4103c93612d35d2 Even before the Iran war, Malaysia drew data centre investment from firms including Google, Amazon and Microsoft.  Even before the Iran war, Malaysia drew data centre investment from firms including Google, Amazon and Microsoft.  https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/keppel-infrastructure-trusts-9m-distributable-income-falls-17-s140-1-million?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T08:52:07+08:00 Keppel Infrastructure Trust’s 9M distributable income falls 17% to S$140.1 million https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b5b8262aa2748a31ba52c80dc3148a37ddf1739ba305ea76b020e5d1d6150f1f The SingSpring Desalination Plant. The SingSpring Desalination Plant. KIT’s environmental services segment posts a 20.1% drop in funds from operations to S$28.7 million. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/anthropic-mum-investment-grade-it-warns-more-debt The Business Times en 2026-10-27T08:42:15+08:00 Anthropic mum on investment grade as it warns of more debt https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/cb41b9d2d44e96248723f241f254788476a9f17faf671e404d71223cae5f118b Reaching an investment grade rating could give the maker of Claude access to a much deeper pool of capital. Reaching an investment grade rating could give the maker of Claude access to a much deeper pool of capital. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/stocks-watch-capitaland-ascott-trust-keppel-infrastructure-trust-ifast-esr-reit-first-sponsor?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T08:40:13+08:00 Stocks to watch: CapitaLand Ascott Trust, Keppel Infrastructure Trust, iFast, ESR Reit, First Sponsor https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2f99ec912c4a3806c0360e256c7c62cc9b3c67683cf734c78f3ebc2c24877bb3 image of clas’ property CapitaLand Ascott Trust reports a 4% year-on-year improvement in same-store operating performance for Q3. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capitaland-ascott-trusts-same-store-operating-performance-4-q3?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T08:30:09+08:00 CapitaLand Ascott Trust’s same-store operating performance up 4% in Q3 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2f99ec912c4a3806c0360e256c7c62cc9b3c67683cf734c78f3ebc2c24877bb3 image of clas’ property CLAS’ portfolio RevPAU rises 4% year on year on a same-store basis in Q3 2026. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/tamagotchis-and-toy-story-why-market-millennials-booming?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T07:00:00+08:00 Tamagotchis and Toy Story: Why the market for millennials is booming https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/da1e23ab5d01f3bff68cf675fb2ebd4a0fb767974c0de6b8efad8cce4ed072d8 image of tamagotchi The original Tamagotchi models are being re-released in 2026 for their 30th anniversary. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/asean-faces-outsized-risks-worlds-largest-economies The Business Times en 2026-10-27T07:00:00+08:00 Asean faces outsized risks from the world’s largest economies https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/21ac7e63722edfc772129b754721a2051eb1766a7880f5404be870598c864d5d One concern that the IMF meetings highlighted was that public debt levels in the US and Japan and several major European economies remain high. One concern that the IMF meetings highlighted was that public debt levels in the US and Japan and several major European economies remain high. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/aseans-financial-market-fragmented-tokenisation-could-fix The Business Times en 2026-10-27T07:00:00+08:00 Asean’s financial market is fragmented. Tokenisation could fix that https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b0dbd64f09b968e431657371443225584e66367c5745adb65f569a60cfec3d3a MAS’ SGD Testnet, a shared ledger infrastructure, lets banks settle in digital central bank money. MAS’ SGD Testnet, a shared ledger infrastructure, lets banks settle in digital central bank money. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/startups-tech/technology/long-bill-cheap-software?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T07:00:00+08:00 The long bill for cheap software https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d219e8618b4f6430506489a490cb1a5b9bda26bfbc26fdc03597f9d677012c04 Computer code is displayed on multiple screens. Security firm Veracde found out that 44% of AI code-generation tasks introduced a security flaw. Computer code is displayed on multiple screens. Security firm Veracde found out that 44% of AI code-generation tasks introduced a security flaw. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/eu-plans-hit-china-more-import-curbs-early-2027 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T06:54:06+08:00 EU plans to hit China with more import curbs in early 2027 https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/9ebf993d23f65bf1a0d0ec7009039058dccd95d14e5be84ac640362b66302462 The measures could take the form of either import caps or tariffs and may be presented as soon as Q1 2027.   The measures could take the form of either import caps or tariffs and may be presented as soon as Q1 2027.   https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/memory-titans-test-ai-demand-while-bubble-fears-transfix-markets The Business Times en 2026-10-27T06:30:03+08:00 Memory titans test AI demand while bubble fears transfix markets https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/dd5be2ca827767bf0dd5dd249cbbf8515f7466b0c94b4c69e1061178f09a3592 Upcoming disclosures offer a broad test of AI tech providers’ faith that the enormous sums poured into data centres would generate sufficient returns. Upcoming disclosures offer a broad test of AI tech providers’ faith that the enormous sums poured into data centres would generate sufficient returns. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/oil-settles-lower-peace-hopes-saudi-attacks-limit-losses The Business Times en 2026-10-27T06:12:27+08:00 Oil settles lower on peace hopes, Saudi attacks limit losses https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/373b0f83c86e27c8f0d28ea503aa5822cf7f05bb4983ff5d1e3f396a47e76c4d US West Texas Intermediate crude futures closed down US$1.51, or 1.46%, at US$101.76 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate crude futures closed down US$1.51, or 1.46%, at US$101.76 a barrel. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/european-stocks-rebound-corporate-optimism-lifts-mood-ahead-rate-decisions The Business Times en 2026-10-27T06:05:33+08:00 European stocks rebound as corporate optimism lifts mood ahead of rate decisions https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/3842468f086d4d17c472c73ed5d487ac678dd8f3561e7892e88f8b36ae4ac5cd Most major sector indices on the Stoxx traded higher, with defence stocks in the lead following a 2.6% gain. Most major sector indices on the Stoxx traded higher, with defence stocks in the lead following a 2.6% gain. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/us-equities-end-higher-anthropics-ipo-filing-buoys-ai-stocks The Business Times en 2026-10-27T05:51:02+08:00 US equities end higher as Anthropic's IPO filing buoys AI stocks https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b1cd45343978fc99548a2170455a8d2bedcff64ff9ea5341f2fb10edd2b05785 Anthropic’s filing comes as investors increasingly dissect the potential payoff from massive AI spending and at the start of an eventful week.  Anthropic’s filing comes as investors increasingly dissect the potential payoff from massive AI spending and at the start of an eventful week.  https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/podcasts/singapore-reits-how-stay-relevant-when-interest-rates-stay-high?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T05:00:00+08:00 Singapore Reits: How to stay relevant when interest rates stay high https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ec9994c75d25900f4c6ac800268155d3cdda2321750e88784b0bfae9b5b2ee79 Is a Singapore listing attractive for REITs that own only overseas assets? Is a Singapore listing attractive for REITs that own only overseas assets? https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/600-matches-1000-players-first-ocbc-great-eastern-pickleball-open-sees-vibrant-turnout?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-27T05:00:00+08:00 600 matches, 1,000 players: First OCBC-Great Eastern Pickleball Open sees vibrant turnout https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/d22e261b41a2c2934571dbe444e7f27884d853934be0a394536435ab8a02fb64 Soham Nitin Jane (in black) and Arsh Ravi Pakhare travelled from India to participate in OCBC-Great Eastern Pickleball Open. Soham Nitin Jane (in black) and Arsh Ravi Pakhare travelled from India to participate in OCBC-Great Eastern Pickleball Open. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/anthropics-ipo-filing-shows-explosive-growth-risks-and-staggering-costs The Business Times en 2026-10-26T22:17:43+08:00 Anthropic’s IPO filing shows explosive growth, risks and staggering costs https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7374e9c60015e0b97bab3eb2c4e4d8c0b845d725de5820ffb89c868eb19cb3ce The IPO will give Anthropic access to a deep pool of capital to fund its costly AI ambitions. The IPO will give Anthropic access to a deep pool of capital to fund its costly AI ambitions. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/us-stocks-wall-street-opens-higher-anthropics-ipo-filing-sharpens-ai-focus The Business Times en 2026-10-26T22:00:46+08:00 US stocks: Wall Street opens higher as Anthropic’s IPO filing sharpens AI focus https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b1cd45343978fc99548a2170455a8d2bedcff64ff9ea5341f2fb10edd2b05785 The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 105.3 points, or 0.2 per cent, to 52,320.45 on Monday morning. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 105.3 points, or 0.2 per cent, to 52,320.45 on Monday morning. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/smes/nine-companies-singapore-and-region-bag-top-honours-2026-emerging-enterprise-awards?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T22:00:00+08:00 Nine companies from Singapore and the region bag top honours at 2026 Emerging Enterprise Awards https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0830da1346bd4cd541852bbb2e6d47a9f86bcb85b96bee93342d3939608a309b Winners at Emerging Enterprise Awards 2026. From left: Yuen Tat Yan, managing director of Hyperscale DCS; Desmond Ho, CEO of Alpha AI Technology; Nivedita Venkateish, CEO and founder of XEL Lifecare (AIRE); William Yeung, CEO and co-founder of MediConCen; Tyler Peh, CEO, chief marketing officer and co-founder of Woosa Sleep; Inthira Kalanjiam, CEO and founder of Lafre Global; Leong Yew Wei, CEO and founder of Matwerkz Technologies; Rendy Aditya Wachid, CEO and founder of Raesaka Amanah Widyakarya (Parongpong Raw Lab); Steven Ng, director of Geomax Rubber Innovative Products. Winners at Emerging Enterprise Awards 2026. From left: Yuen Tat Yan, managing director of Hyperscale DCS; Desmond Ho, CEO of Alpha AI Technology; Nivedita Venkateish, CEO and founder of XEL Lifecare (AIRE); William Yeung, CEO and co-founder of MediConCen; Tyler Peh, CEO, chief marketing officer and co-founder of Woosa Sleep; Inthira Kalanjiam, CEO and founder of Lafre Global; Leong Yew Wei, CEO and founder of Matwerkz Technologies; Rendy Aditya Wachid, CEO and founder of Raesaka Amanah Widyakarya (Parongpong Raw Lab); Steven Ng, director of Geomax Rubber Innovative Products. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/energy-commodities/natural-gas-stay-long-haul-beyond-2050-singapore-international-energy-week-panellists?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T21:42:26+08:00 Natural gas to stay for the long haul beyond 2050: Singapore International Energy Week panellists https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/477b753cf1bd4808a98a378b12dbd4eff6f30fef4e6c88205e13f7122b29f6da Natural gas has been touted as a transition fuel to facilitate governments to gradually shift their energy mix to be more low-carbon. Natural gas has been touted as a transition fuel to facilitate governments to gradually shift their energy mix to be more low-carbon. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telcos-media-tech/meta-raise-us95-billion-equity-fund-costly-ai-expansion The Business Times en 2026-10-26T21:15:51+08:00 Meta to raise up to US$95 billion in equity to fund costly AI expansion https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/14c1562a48b004b8ac29fbf0c2d901d333b01c29761ece538d27110303fdd005 Meta has stepped up spending on data centres, computing capacity and AI products to compete with rivals OpenAI and Anthropic. Meta has stepped up spending on data centres, computing capacity and AI products to compete with rivals OpenAI and Anthropic. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/euro-firms-against-yen-flat-against-us-dollar-ahead-central-bank-meetings The Business Times en 2026-10-26T21:09:02+08:00 Euro firms against yen, flat against US dollar ahead of central bank meetings https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/82d20b1561ba631986534981bddeef97d6683357f847e8068b39488239b42a44 The euro was flat at US$1.1201. The euro was flat at US$1.1201. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/indonesia-says-gas-export-cuts-singapore-remain-within-contract-terms?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T21:07:50+08:00 Indonesia says gas export cuts to Singapore remain within contract terms https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b1ad3ee5c15b50e730fc545dd2e8e679317049ff833b26b443e631800eb056f4 Indonesia Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia (centre) said the price of gas exports offered to other countries had been relatively economical. Indonesia Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia (centre) said the price of gas exports offered to other countries had been relatively economical. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/ifast-q3-profit-rises-24-5-s32-million-overall-revenue-growth?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T20:37:56+08:00 iFast Q3 profit rises 24.5% to S$32 million on overall revenue growth https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1523c2e601cb9ee7e1783a331ee067c2a73ccd57cd9f6aa32380ee1e93252ec4 For the full year, iFast expects to propose a total dividend of S$0.12 per share or more, with at least 43% increase compared to FY2025. For the full year, iFast expects to propose a total dividend of S$0.12 per share or more, with at least 43% increase compared to FY2025. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/euro-zone-firms-find-it-harder-get-credit-ecb-survey The Business Times en 2026-10-26T20:20:17+08:00 Euro zone firms find it harder to get credit: ECB survey https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8c99dfb912616c800df7033787bb96d0d1d871fe0e2ae973ae4c1c32dca88b3b About 7 per cent of firms reported difficulties in securing a bank loan in the three months to September, rising from 5 per cent in the previous quarter. About 7 per cent of firms reported difficulties in securing a bank loan in the three months to September, rising from 5 per cent in the previous quarter. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/telechoice-unit-secures-s1-3-billion-supply-chain-deal-malaysias-u-mobile?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T20:19:45+08:00 TeleChoice unit secures S$1.3 billion supply chain deal from Malaysia’s U Mobile https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2d587dacad1f4ff500b5fd4f11168ade0f2c1610ccaad22e80f01c3a3fdca2a1 The renewal is for a contract originally signed in February 2024 and due to expire in February 2027, which was worth S$500 million. The renewal is for a contract originally signed in February 2024 and due to expire in February 2027, which was worth S$500 million. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/singapore-stocks-close-lower-amid-mixed-regional-showing-sti-down-0-1?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T20:07:16+08:00 Singapore stocks close lower amid mixed regional showing; STI down 0.1% https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/677fdd1a8b6c47e8ad72760f182f3348e9a0c3ff2b522dc0fe3cf9e7648d3409 Across the broader market, gainers drew level with losers 252 to 252, after 932.6 million securities worth S$1.4 billion changed hands. Across the broader market, gainers drew level with losers 252 to 252, after 932.6 million securities worth S$1.4 billion changed hands. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/chinas-xi-opens-communist-party-plenum-aims-firm-governance-measures The Business Times en 2026-10-26T20:00:28+08:00 China’s Xi opens Communist Party plenum, aims for firm governance measures https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/8d67e66fce2a0b8c776bf7797cb7dceea2fabadc3af1d41e02b2d81635db14d7 Analysts say the meeting could be the last major party gathering before its 2027 leadership reshuffle, when Xi is expected to hold on to the top job for a fourth term. Analysts say the meeting could be the last major party gathering before its 2027 leadership reshuffle, when Xi is expected to hold on to the top job for a fourth term. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/arts-design/childaid-2026-goes-outdoors-free-music-and-arts-festival-uob-plaza?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T20:00:00+08:00 ChildAid 2026 goes outdoors with free music and arts festival at UOB Plaza https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6f35794411f07cae84f629fb4c63ad1bf9b37fa4a281e4206eec0454e4e3cdf6 Amni Musfirah (left) with ChildAid performers at Sing60 Music Festival on Dec 6, 2025. She is the creative director for ChildAid 2026. Amni Musfirah (left) with ChildAid performers at Sing60 Music Festival on Dec 6, 2025. She is the creative director for ChildAid 2026. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/small-nuclear-reactors-could-boost-asean-power-grid-ge-vernova-executive?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T19:35:37+08:00 Small nuclear reactors could boost the Asean Power Grid: GE Vernova executive https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/954f1959030445fb4a0ba3de4c5eb4b337502b9df8d8629e40d8628c6925c7d6 Gray notes that demand in GE Vernova’s gas turbine business remains strong despite gas market volatility amid conflict in the Middle East. Gray notes that demand in GE Vernova’s gas turbine business remains strong despite gas market volatility amid conflict in the Middle East. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/daily-debrief-what-happened-today-oct-261?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T18:45:00+08:00 Daily Debrief: What Happened Today (Oct 26) https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/45d9acfbea2941c4167edc2485a2eaf194c1b33d4cb166903c6e28f5a31da308 Singapore can “keep calm and carry on”, thanks to measures it has invested in over many years, says Minister for Energy, Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) Tan See Leng. Singapore can “keep calm and carry on”, thanks to measures it has invested in over many years, says Minister for Energy, Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) Tan See Leng. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/coe-quota-luxury-car-supply-3-3-flat-mainstream-cars?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T18:29:10+08:00 COE quota: Luxury car supply up 3.3%, flat for mainstream cars https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/eb030a0c03fcef3c4f6751ae580c52519131aa3600017fdbc6561fbfb2265ff2 The two car categories A and B will have no “cut and fill” additions to their quotas for the upcoming three-month period. The two car categories A and B will have no “cut and fill” additions to their quotas for the upcoming three-month period. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/hang-seng-investment-arm-merge-hsbcs-asset-business-sources The Business Times en 2026-10-26T18:01:11+08:00 Hang Seng investment arm to merge with HSBC’s asset business: sources https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/2b262c5a5eae9d15183834a2902e653d05fd9ba560515f31bb8971a0db006e02 The proposed merger would mark the first business-line integration between the two banks. The proposed merger would mark the first business-line integration between the two banks. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/why-chinas-stimulus-keeps-missing-mark The Business Times en 2026-10-26T18:00:00+08:00 Why China’s stimulus keeps missing the mark https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6c24236797bbc5b948e776c6648d82665ef99876b7a375faf103a34a7288e6ba The shift towards sectors like EVs reshapes employment in China towards capital-intensive, highly automated production rather than broad job creation. The shift towards sectors like EVs reshapes employment in China towards capital-intensive, highly automated production rather than broad job creation. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/vietnams-first-chip-plant-unlikely-meet-2027-target-sources-say-no-deal-yet-asml The Business Times en 2026-10-26T17:02:48+08:00 Vietnam’s first chip plant unlikely to meet 2027 target, sources say no deal yet with ASML https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/882ef020d6009e2794ade1e99e9a0fcb142fed17385e97a724c69457b5a8a9da A representative for ASML declined to comment on the talks with Viettel. A representative for ASML declined to comment on the talks with Viettel. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/european-shares-flat-investors-eye-earnings-energy-drags The Business Times en 2026-10-26T16:48:04+08:00 European shares flat as investors eye earnings; energy drags https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f75950ca06c034ebfe74e6c3ae184fd425cb257390b26184c60177b1b3633e77 The Stoxx 600 index was flat at 636.26 points by 0809 GMT on Monday. The Stoxx 600 index was flat at 636.26 points by 0809 GMT on Monday. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/affordability-ai-issues-driving-us-midterms The Business Times en 2026-10-26T16:41:26+08:00 From affordability to AI, the issues driving the US midterms https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/4baec37d3fe4533cf7d2c45e0bc96a2bb8243f130509f3514947b7cd0d4f278d Democratic candidates blame President Trump’s tariffs and the Iran war for rising prices and are campaigning to end both. Democratic candidates blame President Trump’s tariffs and the Iran war for rising prices and are campaigning to end both. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/chinese-carmakers-overtake-japan-europe-first-time The Business Times en 2026-10-26T15:58:49+08:00 Chinese carmakers overtake Japan in Europe for first time https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/967f56eedc7c5d69c00fbe0b180f62185d1531fe5c3af17023a8f38ee196fd7e Visitors at the BYD booth at the 2026 Paris Motor Show in Paris, France, Oct 13, 2026. Visitors at the BYD booth at the 2026 Paris Motor Show in Paris, France, Oct 13, 2026. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/us-china-tech-cold-war-moving-undersea The Business Times en 2026-10-26T15:57:57+08:00 The US-China tech cold war is moving undersea https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/09c087f88f7c7dc5aac1e2e8419fd037a5681085531f9a20ddf0bc6d6f5a6fce The Strait of Malacca, the narrow passage between Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, hosts a dense concentration of undersea cables. The Strait of Malacca, the narrow passage between Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, hosts a dense concentration of undersea cables. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/consumer-healthcare/long-life-snacking-occasion The Business Times en 2026-10-26T15:52:02+08:00 The long life of the ‘snacking occasion’ https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6ed6945fbaa0fec1e5cad362bb0091f7cefa8fdfc4b305a0a5241aefc656f156 Packets of chips and snacks hang at a grocery shop. The term “snacking occasion” has been rising in popularity among executives as companies scramble to continue making money through the day. The term “snacking occasion” has been rising in popularity among executives as companies scramble to continue making money through the day. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/former-minister-maliki-osman-revolut-chairman-join-asia-gulf-holdings-advisory-board?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T15:44:02+08:00 Former minister Maliki Osman, Revolut chairman join Asia Gulf Holdings advisory board https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/73f5f8386912e291a6026e30a679ce7b110d9a9b29cdb9ea46c2a9965e72faa7 Dr Maliki Osman retired from politics in May 2025 after serving as a Member of Parliament for 24 years. Dr Maliki Osman retired from politics in May 2025 after serving as a Member of Parliament for 24 years. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/dbs-maybank-ifc-collaborate-funding-johor-singapore-renewable-energy-project?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T15:32:06+08:00 DBS, Maybank, IFC to collaborate on funding Johor-Singapore renewable energy project https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/52e187e4f2c208a50554d17254719ddedfc6deae6e05bd04c20a8d57dee754d0 The US$6 billion venture is expected to be a core pillar of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone master plan. The US$6 billion venture is expected to be a core pillar of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone master plan. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/food-delivery-firm-meituan-aims-raise-us1-billion-bond-sale The Business Times en 2026-10-26T15:14:32+08:00 Food-delivery firm Meituan aims to raise US$1 billion in bond sale https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/0ca6e0e257079bd9c652896c2500ea0b817b52ba13f01f49c61fa9b04043adb7 Meituan is raising the debt as competition has eased in China’s food delivery and retail business following a crackdown by authorities. Meituan is raising the debt as competition has eased in China’s food delivery and retail business following a crackdown by authorities. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/global/you-buy-more-picks-and-shovels-because-you-keep-hitting-gold-why-ai-spending-needs-see-results?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T15:00:00+08:00 ‘You buy more picks and shovels because you keep hitting gold’: Why AI spending needs to see results https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/6332c7798cb6102901487c7b323b737c225a5ae74b9a551432f694e36e2d8fe5 Intel CEO Tan Lip-Bu (right) and Broadcom CEO Hock Tan (left) in a panel discussion moderated by DBS CEO Tan Su Shan during the DBS Asia Future Forward Conference. Intel CEO Tan Lip-Bu (right) and Broadcom CEO Hock Tan (left) in a panel discussion moderated by DBS CEO Tan Su Shan during the DBS Asia Future Forward Conference. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/bitcoin-dips-below-us80000-ai-related-market-selloff-deepens The Business Times en 2026-10-26T14:57:11+08:00 Bitcoin dips below US$80,000 as AI-related market selloff deepens https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/ff962a851866ddc2c151f70403299a06409e63a5aa2007e509ee29683b5396ed Investors pulled US$772.4 million from US-listed spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds on Thursday and Friday. Investors pulled US$772.4 million from US-listed spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds on Thursday and Friday. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/dbs-commits-s1-million-haze-relief-efforts-seniors-migrant-workers-singapore?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T14:56:04+08:00 DBS commits S$1 million to haze relief efforts for seniors, migrant workers in Singapore https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/203a631af46b41f8f3cc334778b887b9b3fadfbff0d55c3f272ae4889ae28a6e image of DBS country head distributing masks to migrant workers DBS Singapore country head Lim Him Chuan distributes N95 masks to migrant workers at Terusan Recreation Centre. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/thailand-sees-us50-3-billion-investment-applications-first-nine-months-28-year The Business Times en 2026-10-26T14:36:17+08:00 Thailand sees US$50.3 billion in investment applications in first nine months, up 28% on year https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f755be0eb91ac2617f26b84fb8d8da95fcf53afc5ed338eb318c552311cec6b2 Workers at a factory that produces parts for internal combustion engine vehicles in Samut Prakan, Thailand, Sep 23, 2026. Workers at a factory that produces parts for internal combustion engine vehicles in Samut Prakan, Thailand, Sep 23, 2026. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/indonesia-strengthens-measures-against-stock-manipulation-after-market-rout-triggered-msci The Business Times en 2026-10-26T14:10:49+08:00 Indonesia strengthens measures against stock manipulation after market rout triggered by MSCI https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/94c9e663693b94e7a48fdfaf4cc2fefaea09f4d9b36dab91ba2caa929729fe5c The MSCI still classifies Indonesia as an “emerging” market. The MSCI still classifies Indonesia as an “emerging” market. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/japanese-companies-compensate-users-cyberattacks-buffet-economy The Business Times en 2026-10-26T13:54:55+08:00 Japanese companies compensate users as cyberattacks buffet economy https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/c9946a197dc34f359f35ef60128b78f389022110d37d1cec94fd5fed0a7c8f59 GMO Internet Group said customers would be compensated for losses stemming from a cyberattack on its foreign exchange trading service. GMO Internet Group said customers would be compensated for losses stemming from a cyberattack on its foreign exchange trading service. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/what-different-us-midterm-outcomes-could-mean-markets The Business Times en 2026-10-26T13:45:37+08:00 What different US midterm outcomes could mean for markets https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/a6e49f3ad137452865bf4871023d26c33b7b380b141eef6d732287930f61da65 An analysis by Wells Fargo & Co found that the S&P 500 Index has risen in the 12 months after every midterm election in the post-World War II era. An analysis by Wells Fargo & Co found that the S&P 500 Index has risen in the 12 months after every midterm election in the post-World War II era. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/dfi-retail-group-q3-underlying-profit-17-full-year-guidance-raised?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T13:30:41+08:00 DFI Retail Group Q3 underlying profit up 17%; full-year guidance raised https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/969b99d28ddb6361b8c9a0694b26d2c32e354811bebdd7cd2755448d8417ec47 The Starbucks logo outside an outlet of the coffee chain. In Q3, DFI announced that it would assume restaurant associate Maxim’s existing interests in the Starbucks licensed business. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/government-bring-forward-raising-retirement-age-give-employers-more-financial-support-create-flexi?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T13:30:00+08:00 Government to bring forward raising of retirement age, give employers more financial support to create flexi-load jobs https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/fe62fafa1c2283fdac4c18a70278df3702558c9317218d51611f364bf9e8066e The recommendations aim to help more seniors stay employed for longer, while fostering age-friendly, multigenerational workplaces. The recommendations aim to help more seniors stay employed for longer, while fostering age-friendly, multigenerational workplaces. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/lula-brazils-iconic-working-class-president-wins-fourth-term-dramatic-comeback The Business Times en 2026-10-26T13:25:07+08:00 Lula, Brazil’s iconic working class president, wins fourth term in dramatic comeback https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/1379041d7bc1614af8f4c3621f73dd4e0814aa40ece0e6c94ee9c2dfcddf84d3 Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva celebrates with his wife, Rosangela "Janja" da Silva, and Vice-President Geraldo Alckmin after winning the presidential runoff election in Sao Paulo on Oct 26. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva celebrates with his wife, Rosangela "Janja" da Silva, and Vice-President Geraldo Alckmin after winning the presidential runoff election in Sao Paulo on Oct 26. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/economy-policy/singapore-factory-output-growth-slows-sharply-3-4-september-missing-forecasts?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T13:00:20+08:00 Singapore factory output growth slows sharply to 3.4% in September, missing forecasts https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/f2286632b5fc1bc11e0a6de75c36207346b29bb9e249d740510d388970883c51 All manufacturing clusters record output growth on a year-on-year basis in September, except chemicals and biomedical manufacturing. All manufacturing clusters record output growth on a year-on-year basis in September, except chemicals and biomedical manufacturing. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/netflix-users-are-watching-less-not-opening-app-often The Business Times en 2026-10-26T12:32:56+08:00 Netflix users are watching less, not opening the app as often https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/79df3751dea2fcb7f84df7daddf54fda183ad0ba63628d358474e1b63a5931c6 Netflix has increased its programming budget and is expanding into new categories to attract new customers and retain old ones. Netflix has increased its programming budget and is expanding into new categories to attract new customers and retain old ones. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/iois-lee-yeow-seng-could-be-vindicated-going-big-prime-singapore-city-centre-properties?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T12:19:25+08:00 IOI’s Lee Yeow Seng could be vindicated in going big on prime Singapore city-centre properties https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/7399dc81fe0b8248fc52b81e1e701e1d8848b8620e38301f6ee679e4c9b0138f Group CEO Lee Yeow Seng of IOI Properties Group. Group CEO Lee Yeow Seng has plans to reduce IOI Properties’ net debt to equity by injecting selected Singapore assets into a private fund. https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/cgsi-ocbc-cut-fct-target-price-despite-record-fy2026-payout?ai-allowed=1 The Business Times en 2026-10-26T12:00:21+08:00 CGSI, OCBC cut FCT target price despite record FY2026 payout https://cassette.sphdigital.com.sg/image/businesstimes/b31a07b42f012add6d1c1dd00e433a79c36fc222f9052a95eee1bd833bf8cc6c The proceeds from FCT’s White Sands divestment will lower FCT’s gearing to 36.8%, says Jefferies. The proceeds from FCT’s White Sands divestment will lower FCT’s gearing to 36.8%, says Jefferies.