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Horizon Vision

Nepal PM justifies banning party-linked unions, student groups

Nepal PM justifies banning party-linked unions, student groups

Nepal PM Balendra Shah banned party-linked unions and student groups, stating the move promotes institutional governance away from political control. Critics condemn the ban as authoritarian, arguing it restricts academic freedom and civil service rights.

New Skills and Workforce Development Agency to be set up later this year

New Skills and Workforce Development Agency to be set up later this year

Singapore is establishing a new Skills and Workforce Development Agency by Q3. It merges SSG and WSG to create a one-stop shop for workers and employers. This aims to provide integrated support for skills upgrading, career planning, and employment matters amid global changes.

Norway to reopen gas fields to bolster European supply

Norway to reopen gas fields to bolster European supply

Norway plans to reopen three North Sea gas fields starting in 2028. This move aims to boost Europe's energy security supply, especially amid global conflicts. The operation will run until 2048 and requires significant investment.

ComfortDelGro launches QR codes to make ride bookings easier for seniors, caregivers, tourists

ComfortDelGro launches QR codes to make ride bookings easier for seniors, caregivers, tourists

ComfortDelGro launched customized QR codes through its Zig app to simplify ride bookings. Scanning these codes at designated locations automatically loads the pickup point, greatly assisting seniors, caregivers, and tourists across Singapore.

Land of Smiles - and mandatory travel insurance? Thailand’s proposed move for tourists stirs debate

Land of Smiles - and mandatory travel insurance? Thailand’s proposed move for tourists stirs debate

Thailand is considering mandatory tourist insurance to ease strain on its healthcare system from foreign patients. However, industry experts caution that poor implementation could deter visitors in the highly competitive regional travel market.

Commentary: Indonesia’s foreign policy has a consultation problem

Commentary: Indonesia’s foreign policy has a consultation problem

An academic argues Indonesia's foreign policy lacks proper consultation. Major decisions are announced first, followed by explanations rather than deliberation. This pattern weakens national accountability and risks eroding diplomatic credibility in the region.

Trading Day: The oil, bonds tango

Trading Day: The oil, bonds tango

Geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz caused oil prices to surge past $100/barrel. This energy shock pushed US yields higher, dragging stocks lower. Investors must brace for sustained inflation, potentially reaching 4%.

Ukraine and Russia declare separate truces

Ukraine and Russia declare separate truces

Russia declared a unilateral ceasefire for May 8-9, threatening strikes if Ukraine violated it during its Victory Day commemorations. Ukraine responded with its own truce declaration for May 5-6. US diplomatic efforts are currently stalled amid continued fighting between the two nations.

Daily Debrief: What Happened Today (May 5)

Daily Debrief: What Happened Today (May 5)

OCBC's Indonesia acquisition boosts its wealth franchise, aligning with strategies to diversify earnings amid margin pressure. Separately, MAS convened bank CEOs to address sophisticated AI-enabled cyberthreats, stressing that boards must own these growing risks.

Toto jackpot of nearly $13 million won by one ticket

Toto jackpot of nearly $13 million won by one ticket

A single Toto ticket won a massive Group 1 prize of $12.8 million during the May 4th draw. The jackpot, secured via Singapore Pools, made one lucky punter nearly $13 million richer. This highlights the incredible luck of the winning bettor.

OCBC to buy HSBC wealth, premier banking portfolio in Indonesia

OCBC to buy HSBC wealth, premier banking portfolio in Indonesia

OCBC's Indonesian unit is acquiring HSBC's International Wealth and Premier Banking portfolio in Indonesia. This major acquisition will boost OCBC Indonesia’s assets under management by an expected 25%. The move strengthens OCBC's presence in Southeast Asia's largest economy.

Singapore stocks rise on May 4, with STI gaining 0.2%

Singapore stocks rise on May 4, with STI gaining 0.2%

Singapore stocks gained ground on May 4, with the Straits Times Index rising 0.2% to 4,924.31 points. Venture Corp led the gains, while CapitaLand Investment declined after trading ex-dividend. Regional indices also showed positive momentum across Asian markets.