On 8 November 2025, Dubai hosted Russian Design Forum 4, the only professional forum for Russian-speaking interior designers and architects in the Middle East. The event was part of Dubai Design Week, which highlighted its importance for the regional design industry and strengthened the position of the Russian-speaking community in the professional environment of the UAE. The forum, organised by Olga Melnikova, founder of the Russian-speaking design […]
France has moved to convene a meeting of Group of Seven finance ministers this week as tensions escalate with the United States over proposed tariffs linked to a high-profile dispute about Greenland. Paris is spearheading coordinated Western efforts to address what it and other European capitals describe as coercive trade threats from Washington, and to explore collective avenues for diplomatic and economic response amidst deepening strain in […]
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in New Delhi on a working visit, marking another step in the steady expansion of political, economic and strategic ties between Abu Dhabi and New Delhi. He was received at the Palam Air Base by Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, accompanied by senior members of the Union Cabinet and officials from the external affairs establishment, underscoring the importance both sides attach to the engagement.
The visit places renewed focus on deepening UAE–India partnership at a time when bilateral cooperation spans trade, energy security, technology, defence and people-to-people exchanges. Officials said discussions during the visit would review progress under existing agreements while identifying new areas for collaboration aligned with long-term economic and geopolitical priorities.
The UAE and India have built a close relationship over the past decade, anchored by high-level political engagement and sustained institutional cooperation. The elevation of ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has provided a framework for collaboration across sectors, with regular leader-level interactions helping to maintain momentum. Sheikh Mohamed and Prime Minister Modi have met frequently on the margins of multilateral forums and through bilateral visits, creating a rapport that has translated into concrete outcomes.
Trade and investment remain central to the agenda. Bilateral non-oil trade has expanded significantly following the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which reduced tariffs, simplified customs procedures and opened services markets. Officials on both sides view the agreement as a catalyst for further growth, particularly in manufacturing, logistics, food security and digital services. The UAE has also emerged as a major investor, with sovereign and private capital flowing into infrastructure, renewable energy, ports and technology ventures.
Energy cooperation continues to be a pillar of the relationship. The UAE is a key supplier of crude oil and liquefied natural gas, while joint investments in strategic petroleum reserves and downstream assets have added depth to the partnership. As both countries pursue energy transition goals, collaboration has widened to include renewables, green hydrogen and climate technology, reflecting shared commitments to sustainability and diversification.
Defence and security cooperation has gained prominence amid evolving regional and global challenges. Regular joint exercises, intelligence exchanges and defence industrial cooperation have strengthened interoperability and trust. Counter-terrorism, maritime security and cyber resilience are areas where officials see scope for closer coordination, particularly given the shared interest in stable sea lanes and secure digital infrastructure.
Technology and innovation feature prominently in the discussions. The UAE’s push to position itself as a hub for advanced technologies aligns with New Delhi’s focus on digital public infrastructure, fintech and start-up ecosystems. Partnerships between research institutions, technology firms and start-ups have expanded, supported by policy initiatives and investment platforms designed to facilitate cross-border collaboration.
The large expatriate community also shapes the relationship. Millions of people from India live and work in the UAE, contributing to its economy and cultural diversity, while remittances and professional exchanges strengthen social and economic links. During past engagements, leaders have highlighted the role of this community as a bridge between the two nations, with initiatives aimed at skills development, worker welfare and cultural exchange.
On the multilateral front, both countries coordinate positions on regional stability, economic governance and climate action. Cooperation within forums such as the G20, where the UAE has participated as a guest under New Delhi’s presidency, has reinforced alignment on development priorities, debt relief for vulnerable economies and sustainable growth.
Officials familiar with the visit said meetings would assess progress on commitments made during earlier engagements and set timelines for new initiatives. Agreements and memoranda of understanding under consideration span sectors including education, healthcare, space cooperation and financial services, reflecting the breadth of the partnership.
Malaysia’s United Malays National Organization, long the central pillar of the country’s political establishment, has begun working with erstwhile rivals from the Malay-Muslim opposition, signalling a recalibration that underscores how far the nation’s politics has shifted since the party’s electoral dominance fractured.
The cooperation, confirmed through parallel statements and joint appearances by party leaders, reflects UMNO’s attempt to consolidate Malay political influence at a time when its authority has been diluted by years of electoral setbacks, internal splits and the rise of competing blocs. While the party remains a key component of the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, its outreach to former adversaries has fuelled debate about whether Malaysia is entering a new phase of pragmatic alliances driven less by ideology and more by survival.
UMNO governed Malaysia almost uninterrupted for more than six decades after independence in 1957, anchoring the Barisan Nasional coalition and shaping state institutions. That grip was broken in 2018 when voters punished the party over corruption scandals and governance concerns, leading to a series of unstable administrations. Since then, UMNO has struggled to define its role in a crowded political field that includes Anwar’s reformist bloc and the Malay-Muslim opposition alliance led by Parti Islam Se-Malaysia and Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia.
The current cooperation has emerged against that backdrop. Senior figures from UMNO have acknowledged coordination with opposition leaders on issues framed as safeguarding Malay-Muslim interests, including economic equity policies and the position of Islam in public life. Though party officials have stopped short of describing the engagement as a formal pact, they have not ruled out deeper collaboration if it serves what they describe as national stability and communal interests.
This posture has drawn mixed reactions within UMNO itself. Reform-minded members argue that aligning, even tactically, with parties that have attacked UMNO in past campaigns risks alienating centrist voters and undermining the party’s commitment to multiracial governance within the current administration. Others counter that the political landscape no longer allows rigid red lines, pointing to successive elections that showed Malay votes splintering among multiple parties.
Political analysts say the outreach reflects both opportunity and vulnerability. UMNO’s share of parliamentary seats has shrunk sharply compared with its peak years, reducing its leverage inside the ruling coalition. By engaging with rivals who command strong grassroots support in rural and conservative constituencies, the party may be seeking to reassert relevance and prevent further erosion of its base.
At the same time, the move complicates Prime Minister Anwar’s delicate balancing act. His coalition spans ideologically diverse partners, from UMNO’s traditionalists to reform-oriented parties and regional allies from East Malaysia. Any perception that UMNO is hedging its bets with the opposition could strain internal trust, even as Anwar has publicly emphasised unity and policy-driven governance.
The opposition, for its part, has responded cautiously. Leaders have framed the cooperation as issue-based rather than strategic, mindful that their core supporters view UMNO as emblematic of past excesses. Yet the willingness to engage suggests an acknowledgment that Malaysia’s fragmented politics makes absolute isolation costly.
Electoral arithmetic also looms large. Several state and parliamentary contests are approaching, and past results have shown that three-cornered fights often benefit Anwar’s coalition or regional parties, leaving Malay-based rivals divided. Limited coordination could alter outcomes in closely contested seats, though it also risks backlash from voters wary of perceived opportunism.
Beyond elections, the discussions point to broader questions about Malaysia’s political trajectory. The country’s multiracial framework has historically rested on bargaining among communal parties, with UMNO as the dominant broker. Its weakened position has opened space for ideological competition and policy debate, but also for sharper identity politics. Whether UMNO’s outreach tempers or intensifies those dynamics remains uncertain.
Business groups and civil society organisations have reacted with caution, urging political leaders to prioritise economic reform and institutional stability over tactical manoeuvring. Malaysia’s economy faces pressures from global volatility, fiscal constraints and the need to attract investment, issues that many argue require coherent policymaking rather than shifting alliances.
Botim Money, the financial services arm of the messaging platform botim, said on Tuesday it has entered a partnership with Mastercard to widen the reach of its international money transfer services, enabling users to send funds from the United Arab Emirates to more than 150 countries through a single digital interface. The agreement integrates Mastercard Move into the Botim app, allowing customers to initiate cross-border transfers that […]
Goldman Sachs is examining whether to engage with the fast-growing prediction-markets sector, a move that could reshape how Wall Street views platforms long seen as niche or legally ambiguous. Chief executive David Solomon has confirmed that the bank has held discussions with executives from Polymarket and Kalshi, describing these venues as sophisticated markets that resemble derivatives trading more than online betting. The conversations underscore a strategic recalibration […]
By Nitya Chakraborty The Washington talks for discussing the future of Greenland failed on Wednesday with the foreign ministers of Denmark and Greenland returning back home with the message from White House that Greenland rightfully belongs to USA and Trump will be deciding on the timing of its takeover. The U.S. does not care for […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, the United Arab Emirates’s flagship petroleum producer, is evaluating options to enter Venezuela’s energy industry with a focus on gas projects, signalling a potential strategic pivot that could reshape international investment patterns in one of the world’s most under-utilised hydrocarbon reserves. This deliberation forms part of Adnoc’s broader international expansion plans via its overseas investment arm, XRG, and […]
MNA Ventures, a premier diversified holding group and “one-stop-shop” conglomerate, today released its 2025 Year-End Summary. The report details a transformative period of internal optimization and aggressive international growth, reinforcing the group’s position as a global parent entity across the UAE, Europe, and emerging markets. Throughout 2025, MNA Ventures continued to execute its “solutions-first” strategy—developing internal tools to resolve complex corporate challenges before scaling them into market-leading subsidiaries. […]
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 January 2026 – Franchising & Licensing Asia (FLAsia), Asia’s leading franchising and licensing trade event, will return from 13–15 August 2026 at Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Singapore.
Organised by MP Singapore, and presented by the Franchising & Licensing Association (Singapore), FLAsia 2026 marks a new chapter for the long-running industry event as it enters its 21st edition under a new organiser partnership. The appointment of MP Singapore brings expanded regional reach, deeper industry engagement and a strengthened focus on business outcomes for exhibitors and visitors across Asia.
FLAsia 2026 is expected to welcome more than 7,000 trade visitors and over 250 exhibiting brands from franchising, licensing, character IP, retail concepts and emerging business models. The event will continue to serve as a central marketplace for brand owners, franchisors, licensors, investors and entrepreneurs to connect, explore partnerships and identify expansion opportunities across regional and international markets.
Building on the momentum from previous edition, the Brand Licensing Village will return in 2026. The dedicated zone will spotlight locally developed intellectual property that has already been successfully commercialised, offering visitors a focused platform to discover market-ready IP, connect with licensing experts and explore collaboration opportunities across categories. The Licensing Village reinforces FLAsia’s role in supporting IP growth and brand extension within the region’s licensing ecosystem.
On the franchising front, the Chinese Franchise Conference will make a return, reflecting continued interest from Chinese brands and investors seeking expansion opportunities across Southeast Asia and beyond. Curated in collaboration with key industry stakeholders, the conference will provide targeted insights, market perspectives and networking opportunities for Chinese franchise brands and regional partners.
FLAsia 2026 will also feature international pavilions and brand participation from key markets, with brands from Korea, Thailand and other regional economies expected to be present, further strengthening the show’s international profile. Alongside the exhibition showcase, the event will include curated business sessions, industry sharing, talent and career touchpoints, and dedicated zones highlighting innovation, IP development and brand growth, reinforcing FLAsia’s position as a leading gateway for franchising and licensing opportunities in Asia.
“Partnering with MP Singapore marks a dynamic leap forward for FLAsia. Together, we’re amplifying the event’s influence and reach, ensuring the franchising and licensing community thrives as the industry surges across Asia.” Mr Gan Shee Wen, President, Franchising & Licensing Association (Singapore).
“FLAsia is a well-established platform with strong industry trust, and we are pleased to be organising the event for the first time. By leveraging on MP’s global network, we will connect brands, partners and stakeholders in a way that will foster an environment that encourages collaboration, supports quality participation and drives tangible outcomes for both exhibitors and visitors. We are excited to grow FLAsia alongside the industry in the years ahead.” Jason Ng, Managing Director of MP Group.
Franchising & Licensing Asia has, over the years, established itself as a key business platform for brands seeking growth, market entry and partnership opportunities in Asia. With Singapore as its springboard, the event continues to attract regional and international participation, reinforcing its role as a gateway to Asian markets.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About FLAsia
Franchising & Licensing Asia (FLAsia) – 21st Edition – Asia’s leading marketplace for franchising and licensing, FLAsia brings together reputable brand owners, business leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs to create a dynamic platform for accelerating business growth, expanding professional networks, and increasing brand visibility across the vibrant Asian market. FLAsia provides the chance for exhibitors to showcase unique business concepts, engage in face-to-face meetings with high quality visitors and create meaningful business connections. Visitors get to connect directly with brand owners, franchisors, licensors, industry experts, and like-minded leaders, attend insightful conferences, and access high quality business opportunities.
About Franchising and Licensing Association (Singapore)
Franchising and Licensing Association (FLA Singapore), one of the founding members of the World Franchise Council, was established in 1993 with the mission to nurture and develop Singapore’s franchising industry. An essential component of Singapore’s knowledge-based economy, FLA Singapore promotes and facilitates the use of franchising, licensing and branding as a growth strategy for Singapore enterprises, thus contributing to turning Singapore into a regional franchise and license hub.
Through its partnership with Singapore government agencies and international franchise and license bodies, FLA Singapore also assists its members in their international development programmes. With an active growing membership of close to 150 companies, representing more than 250 strong brands, FLA (Singapore) is led and managed by a dedicated team of advisors, committee members and a full-time secretariat with the goal of supporting Singapore companies to expand internationally.
About MP Singapore
The MP Singapore (MP) is a global full-service agency that specialises in connecting and building eco-systems, industry engagement, events management and marketing. Established since 1987, MP embodies more than a quarter century of event building, marketing and management experience in both Eastern and Western cultures, practices, and business philosophies. We bring world-class talent, industry expertise, and incredible enthusiasm into the design and management of extraordinary online-to-offline experiences for your organisation.
MP is part of Pico Group, a global group of agencies specialising in engaging people, creating experiences and activating brands for businesses, institutions and governments. As part of the Pico group, MP has unlimited access to a wide network of industry contacts and resources. Pico Far East Holdings has been listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange since 1992.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 January 2026 – HKU Business School unveiled the “Hong Kong Economic Policy Green Paper 2026” (“Green Paper”). This comprehensive document delves into various facets of Hong Kong’s economic domain, covering everything from trade finance and Hong Kong’s role in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) startup ecosystem to green finance, the IP economy, social and shareholder value for Hong Kong-listed companies, and pressing social issues such as housing affordability and overcrowding in emergency departments. Moreover, with the emergence of AI, the Green Paper examines the impact of AI on the labour market, cybersecurity, and the development of a Web 3.0 ecosystem.
This is the fifth edition of the Hong Kong Economic Policy Green Paper, released by HKU Business School, with the aim of providing recommendations on how Hong Kong can effectively tackle these challenges.
HKU Business School today unveils the Hong Kong Economic Policy Green Paper 2026. From left: Prof. Huiyin Ouyang, Associate Professor in Innovation and Information Management of HKU Business School, Prof. Dragon Tang, Professor in Finance in HKU Business School, Professor Hongbin CAI, Dean and Chair of Economics of HKU Business School, Prof. Richard Wong, Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of The University of Hong Kong and Director, Hong Kong Institute of Economics and Business Strategy, Prof. Heiwai Tang, Associate Vice-President of The University of Hong Kong and Associate Dean of HKU Business School, and Dr. Tingting Fan, Principal Lecturer in Marketing of HKU Business School.
Prof. Richard Wong, Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of The University of Hong Kong and Director, Hong Kong Institute of Economics and Business Strategy said, “This Green Paper was released after months of rigorous research by the scholars from HKU Business School. Grounded in an academic perspective and guided by a pragmatic, problem-solving approach, we have conducted objective analyses and in-depth investigations into core issues and real-world challenges currently facing Hong Kong’s development in political and economic operations, people’s livelihood, and industrial upgrading. Our aim is to provide the Government and relevant authorities with valuable insights and actionable policy recommendations.”
Professor Hongbin Cai, Dean and Chair of Economics of HKU Business School, said, “As a ‘super-connector’ bridging China and the world, Hong Kong’s unique role remains indispensable. Looking ahead, Hong Kong must deeply integrate into China’s national development plans, and also take a more prominent role on the international stage, with an in-depth understanding of the global market and active engagement with its international collaborators.
With campuses in Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen, and an expanding presence in Vietnam and Europe, HKU Business School embodies our unique proposition: deeply rooted in Hong Kong, fully engaged with the Chinese Mainland, and truly international. This year’s Green Paper reflects our dedication to inspiring solutions based on rigorous research. As a world-class institute of higher education, we are committed to enabling Hong Kong to further unleash its core values and usher in a new era of high-quality development.”
Prof. Heiwai Tang, Associate Vice-President of The University of Hong Kong and Associate Dean of HKU Business School, added, “This Green Paper features research papers from ten teams of scholars with diverse backgrounds and varied expertise. Based on profound insights into Hong Kong’s development, they offer unique and targeted policy recommendations, building a rich and multifaceted framework of issues for the Green Paper. At the same time, behind these research achievements lies the scholars’ deep affection for and sense of responsibility toward Hong Kong.”
Regarding how digital technology can boost Hong Kong’s trade finance, he emphasised: “Both data and industry feedback clearly demonstrate the core value of trade finance. However, we need more synergy in the trade finance ecosystem and to catch up in digitisation. To address this, we must strengthen the governance and standard promotion of digital trade platforms and tools, deepen the cross-border interoperability of trade data, expand the functions of the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation, focus on high-value-added trade enterprises, extend the coverage of Free Trade and Double Taxation Avoidance agreements, and promote responsible stablecoin adoption and Renminbi internationalisation.”
Prof. Dragon Tang, Professor in Finance at HKU Business School, stated, “Hong Kong is uniquely positioned to lead in the integration of blockchain technology within green finance, exemplified by our pioneering issuance of the world’s first tokenised green bonds, totalling HKD 6 billion in February 2024. With green finance representing a critical avenue for sustainable development, the global market is projected to grow significantly, emphasising the importance of transparency and trust. To capitalise on this opportunity, we must enhance our blockchain infrastructure, establish clear regulatory standards, and promote cross-border integration with initiatives like Core Climate. By leveraging blockchain’s capabilities, we can significantly reduce costs, improve transparency, and engage a broader investor base, ultimately driving our transition to a sustainable finance future.”
Prof. Huiyin Ouyang, Associate Professor in Innovation and Information Management, HKU Business School, commented on her study, saying, “Two weeks post-implementation of the hospital fee reform, the media reported no significant change in emergency department crowding, which aligns with what our analysis predicted. Overcrowding isn’t simply about patient behaviour – it’s a structural issue. Demographics are shifting, capacity is constrained, and alternative treatment options remain limited. What we now need is a careful, systematic evaluation of the fee changes. Where are vulnerable patients going for care? Are some patients delaying treatment? What unintended effects are emerging? Effective reform requires pairing fee adjustments with expanded primary care access. We can’t solve a capacity problem with pricing alone.”
Dr. Tingting Fan, Principal Lecturer in Marketing at HKU Business School, presented as well, spoke on her study and asked, “Why did Pop Mart go public in Hong Kong but register IP in Singapore? Or why was Molly ‘born’ in Hong Kong but did not go viral from Hong Kong? Why have local companies not managed to turn these homegrown IPs into major business triumphs? Learning from the past and looking forward, Hong Kong can leverage its financial market, legal system, as well as talents to build a comprehensive IP industry infrastructure and become an IP hub.”
The Green Paper includes ten articles; the key points are as follows:
Empowering Merchandise Trade Finance with Digital Technology in Hong Kong Author: Prof. Heiwai Tang, Associate Vice-President (Global), The University of Hong Kong; Associate Dean (External Relations), HKU Business School; Associate Director, Hong Kong Institute of Economics and Business Strategy; Victor and William Fung Professor in Economics
Trade is an essential lifeline for Hong Kong; its total merchandise trade was three times the city’s HKD3.2 trillion GDP in 2024. Trade finance is thus equally important, yet research shows that the total loans extended for trade finance have been declining.
As geopolitical and technological shifts reshape trade, Hong Kong must upgrade its trade finance services. With consumer-goods trade shifting to smaller, more frequent orders and shorter cycles, financial institutions need to streamline approvals and develop flexible products for e-commerce and logistics-driven cash cycles. Banks also need to digitise core processes in fund settlement. The article cautions that platforms directly connecting mainland manufacturers with overseas buyers disintermediate Hong Kong’s traditional hub-and-spoke role.
To address this, the article suggests the government leverage digital technologies to elevate the adoption of Hong Kong’s digital trade platforms through unifying core digital trade functions. Moreover, speeding up interoperability of trade data platforms with the Chinese Mainland and other economies will enable seamless data exchange.
Rebuilding Hong Kong as the Catalyst to the Greater Bay Area (GBA) Startup Ecosystem Prof. Alberto Moel, Professor of Practice in Finance, HKU Business School Prof. Joseph Chan, Associate Professor of Practice in Management and Strategy, HKU Business School; Associate Director, Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Offering a quantitative analysis of the evolution of Hong Kong’s startup landscape, the article found that post-2019 activity has slowed, mirroring global venture capital trends, with most failing to grow beyond 50 employees due to scarce late-stage capital despite early-stage availability. While fintech and logistics dominate and AI/blockchain grow quickly, deep tech lags—authors view this as temporary and highlight Hong Kong’s alignment in financial innovation, regtech, and GBA supply chains to attract investment and support corporate transformation.
To strengthen Hong Kong as the GBA’s premier startup hub and international financial centre, the article recommends nine policies—including fixing funding gaps, closing academia-market divides through industry-focused research for tech transfer, attracting/retaining talent, integrating Northern Metropolis with GBA supply chains, pivoting to high-value services, and drawing large tech platforms to incubate local startups.
The Applications of Blockchain in Green Finance: Hong Kong’s Experience and Opportunities Author: Prof. Dragon Tang, Professor in Finance, HKU Business School; Associate Director, Centre for Financial Innovation and Development
The green finance market has entered an important new phase. Hong Kong became the world’s first issuer of sovereign tokenised green bond when it priced an HKD800 million one-year note in February 2023. Despite this, Hong Kong faces several challenges in the practical implementation of using blockchain to advance green finance. This is due to the limited interoperability between blockchain platforms and existing financial infrastructure, which hinders cross-market transactions. Real-time settlement for tokenised assets is also difficult because of scalability constraints.
The article argues that the future success of blockchain development in green finance will depend on progress in three areas: standardisation, scalability, and security. Clear regulatory frameworks and common technical protocols are needed to provide legal certainty and interoperability across platforms. While collaboration among regulators, technology providers, and energy-market participants can align rules for tokenisation. Blockchain can also connect Hong Kong’s Core Climate platform with overseas counterparts, as cross-border integration is crucial to the inherently international nature of climate finance.
Can Hong Kong be an IP hub for Future Labubu? An Overview of Hong Kong’s IP Industry Dr. Tingting Fan, Principal Lecturer in Marketing, HKU Business School Prof. Heiwai Tang, Associate Vice-President (Global), The University of Hong Kong; Associate Dean (External Relations), HKU Business School; Associate Director, Hong Kong Institute of Economics and Business Strategy; Victor and William Fung Professor in Economics
As Labubu’s success turns the spotlight on the growing importance of the IP industry, the authors propose that this can inspire more creators and businesses to invest in branding, licensing, and cross-border collaborations. This can also attract policymakers’ attention to the emerging IP sector as a key driver of innovation and economic growth.
To position Hong Kong as a leading regional IP trading centre, the authors recommend that stakeholders—including IP developers, entrepreneurs, and government agencies—coordinate efforts across key areas. These include building a robust IP financing ecosystem, such as through government-issued IP bonds replicating the green finance model; enhancing infrastructure and platforms to support IP development; developing specialised talent and professional services in the IP sector; promoting IP initiatives throughout the Greater Bay Area; and strengthening IP protection alongside a solid legal framework.
Thematic Research: Maximisation of Social Value and Shareholder Value – Insights from Hong Kong-listed Companies Across Sectors Author: Prof. Sean Chang, Associate Professor of Practice in Finance, HKU Business School
Through a triangulation research approach, the article examines how social policies, international frameworks, and corporate social responsibility influence a company’s valuation and capital budgeting decisions. Using insights from major Hong Kong-listed companies across nine sectors—spanning transport, utilities, financials, banking, conglomerates, technology, real estate, consumer, and hotel servicing—the research highlights CSR’s role in enhancing long-term firm performance.
Key findings show that corporate risk assessment, company valuation, and stock performance are significantly influenced by CSR-linked socially responsible investing (SRI) factors. Hong Kong-specific social values, such as equality and sustainability, shape investor preferences, guiding finance managers to tailor solutions and adapt regulatory standards. While conventional metrics remain dominant, incorporating social value boosts long-term firm value by building shareholder trust and mitigating risks; companies can pursue CSR projects financed via SRI bonds to create dual economic and societal benefits.
The study recommends embedding core values like equality and sustainability into corporate strategies, aligning budgeting processes with social objectives to pinpoint investments yielding both returns and positive impacts, and urging Hong Kong-listed firms to sustain capital budgeting aligned with enduring societal values.
Housing Affordability and Homeownership in Hong Kong, 1985-2023 Mr. Allen W. Huang, Student Researcher, Hong Kong Future Economy Institute Mr. Alex Ngau, Research Associate, Hong Kong Future Economy Institute Prof. Michael B. Wong, Assistant Professor in Economics, Management and Strategy, HKU Business School
Hong Kong’s housing market has grown increasingly unaffordable, hindering upward mobility for younger generations. Main findings from the research reveal that since the 2002 suspension of the Home Ownership Scheme (HOS), homeownership has declined sharply, rendering private housing “impossibly unaffordable” for median-income households. A wide public-private rent gap drives young people to accept lower-paying or part-time jobs to qualify for public rental housing (PRH), distorting labour supply, stifling human capital investment, and fuelling a surge in adult co-living with parents; younger cohorts (born 1980-1999) face far lower access to public housing and ownership than prior generations at the same age.
Taking Hong Kong Island as an example, between 2003 and 2024, the rent-to-income ratio for a typical 400-sq-ft private unit jumped from 35% to 60% of median household income, peaking at 65% in 2015 and 2019—far exceeding the UN-Habitat and World Bank’s 30% affordability threshold. Public housing rents stayed dramatically lower at just 7%–11% of median household income from 1985 to 2024. For home purchases, it now takes 18.2 years of median income to buy a 500-sq-ft private unit (up from 7.4 years in 2003), placing it in the “impossibly unaffordable” zone per the Demographia International Housing Affordability report, where ≤3.0 years is considered affordable and 9.0+ years is impossibly unaffordable. After the 2002 Home Ownership Scheme suspension, even subsidised HOS units now require 15.8 years of income on Hong Kong Island (up from 7.4 years in 2007), shifting them from moderately unaffordable to severely or impossibly unaffordable in urban cores.
To reverse these trends, the authors recommend ramping up production of high-quality ownership units, easing resale and leasing restrictions on existing subsidised sale flats to boost residential mobility and enable “trading up” the housing ladder, setting housing price and affordability targets over mere supply goals, and adopting responsive mechanisms to balance demand and supply.
Beyond Crisis Management: Structural Reform for the Overcrowding in Hong Kong’s Emergency Departments Prof. Huiyin Ouyang, Associate Professor in Innovation and Information Management, HKU Business School Ms. Yiran Zhang, PhD student, HKU Business School
Hong Kong’s public emergency departments (EDs) handle over 2.14 million annual attendances. This crisis, exacerbated by an ageing population, results from a structural mismatch: the majority of the attendances are for non-emergency conditions, leading to staff burnout and compromised care.
The article proposes three comprehensive structural reforms. First, improving operational efficiency with accurate wait time information systems is crucial. Second, increasing the ED fee (categories III–V) aims to divert non-critical patients. Success for this hinges on assumptions about patient responses, particularly how varied population segments will react to the price signal. International evidence raises concerns, showing that higher ED fees can reduce overall utilisation, but with the decrease primarily occurring among price-sensitive groups who may risk delays in receiving serious care. Therefore, for this reform to succeed, the public must have genuine access to alternative care pathways that can accommodate acute but non-emergency needs outside regular business hours, with pricing acceptable to price-sensitive populations. Third, AI can augment the workforce and manage demand (e.g., through telemedicine).
Ultimately, sustainable reform demands robust evaluation, political courage, and a commitment to address root causes, not just symptoms.
Initial Efforts to Empirically Measure AI Activity and Its Impacts on Hong Kong’s Labour Market Prof. Alan Kwan, Associate Professor in Finance, HKU Business School Prof. Mingzhu Tai, Associate Professor in Finance, HKU Business School; Associate Director, Institute of Behavioural and Decision Science Mr. Zihan Wang, Master student, HKU Business School
In an effort to empirically measure the impact of AI on Hong Kong’s labour force, the researchers observe that firms with a higher adoption of AI experience lower headcount growth. However, the scale of impact appears small in the city, which could be due to several potential reasons. One of these is the different composition of Hong Kong’s labour force compared with other countries. For instance, Hong Kong has a high proportion of finance or managerial talent, which is harder to displace; the city also features older or more elite workers. On the other hand, much of the impact of AI, particularly generative AI, is on the less elite and younger populations.
As such, the authors recommend policymakers produce more labour market statistics that track the impact of AI, particularly by occupation. On the rate of AI adoption in Hong Kong through innovation, the authors find that the city is heavily skewed towards research, but not commercialisation. This means that the quality and quantity of academic research is not translating to commercial use. To address this decoupling, the authors propose that the government tweak its existing early-stage startup funding platforms to encourage streamlining and higher utilisation of existing government resources.
The Impact of Generative Artificial Intelligence on Cybersecurity in Hong Kong Author: Prof. Michael Chau, Professor in Innovation and Information Management, HKU Business School
As GenAI can produce human-like text, code, images, and audio, cybersecurity crimes have become easier and faster to perpetrate. Not only have data leaks and hacks into security systems led to significant financial losses in Hong Kong, but they also hurt confidence in the city’s digital infrastructure.
The article recommends using AI to fortify Hong Kong’s cyber defence, such as using biometric verification and deepfake detection technologies, especially in areas involving critical infrastructure and high financial stakes. It is also important to prevent data leakage and other threats in using GenAI.
Hong Kong’s Next Growth: Pioneering the Web 3.0 Ecosystem Prof. Yulin Fang, Professor in Innovation and Information Management, HKU Business School; Director, Institute of Digital Economy and Innovation Mr. Yangchen Mou, PhD student, HKU Business School
Given the inherent risks in Web 3.0 operational models—most notably within Decentralised Finance (DeFi) systems—striking a balance between fostering the development of the Web 3.0 ecosystem and implementing appropriate regulation to maintain financial stability is and should be a key priority for Hong Kong authorities. To support this, the article categorises the industry into three distinct systems—Centralised Finance (CeFi), the integration of Traditional Finance and Centralised Finance (TradFi-CeFi), and Decentralised Finance (DeFi)—and put forward targeted policy recommendations for each.
For the CeFi system, the authors recommend creating a more conducive environment for development by refining specialised auditing frameworks, promoting a local Web 3.0 talent certification system, and introducing global leading CeFi institutions to the local market. For the TradFi-CeFi system, they suggest upgrading audit standards for traditional firms holding digital assets and upskilling traditional finance professionals with Web 3.0 expertise. In contrast, for the DeFi system, which carries higher inherent risks and poses greater regulatory challenges, the authors advise authorities to adopt a prudent stance while keeping monitoring its latest technological developments.
The full version of the Green Paper can be accessed here. Hi-res photos are available here.
Hashtag: #HKUBS
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About HKU Business School
Established in 2001, HKU Business School is one of the youngest and most dynamic members of The University of Hong Kong (HKU). The School strives to nurture first-class business leaders and foster academic and relevant research that serves the needs of Hong Kong, China and the rest of the world in the new Asia-led economy. As a top international business school, the School has established its place as a globally impactful institution that leads the way through timely thought leadership, pioneering research, and educational excellence. Deeply rooted in Hong Kong and fully engaged with China, the School’s world-class faculty equip students with global knowledge and perspectives.
HKU Business School offers business education across a full range of disciplines, while achieving remarkable growth in faculty strength and research capabilities. The School ranks Asia’s No.1 in Financial Times’ Aggregated Research Ranking for two consecutive years, 2024 and 2025, while the University of Hong Kong ranked 11th in the world and No. 1 in Asia according to the QS World University Rankings 2026. The School has strategic partnerships with world-renowned universities and corporate partners, providing market-oriented content, superior learning, and instrumental resources.
To better serve our students and alumni in various cities and regions, and to facilitate collaboration opportunities with business communities around the globe, HKU Business School has established a unique international network that extends to Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Ho Chi Minh City.
HKU Business School is fully accredited by the European Quality Improvement Systems (EQUIS) and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Abu Dhabi-based conglomerate International Holding Company and the United States’ Development Finance Corporation have agreed to jointly deploy capital across emerging and frontier markets, marking one of the most ambitious investment alignments yet between a Gulf corporate heavyweight and Washington’s global development finance arm. The agreement, announced by both parties, sets out a framework to invest at scale in sectors considered critical […]
PETALING JAYA, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 January 2026– CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd. (CDL Academy), the learning and development arm of YTL Cement Group, and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 9 January 2026 to strengthen collaboration in talent development, applied learning, and sustainable construction practices for Malaysia’s engineering sector.
(from left to right): Datuk Aziyah Mohamed, Co-chairman of CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd., Dato’ Sr. Mohd Zaid Zakaria, Chairman of CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd., Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry Bin Mohd Rahim, Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, and Associate Professor Ir. Dr. Noor Nabilah Sarbini, Director, Forensic Engineering Centre of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia during the Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony between CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd. and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia.
The MoU was signed by UTM Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim and CDL Academy Chairman Dato’ Sr. Mohd Zaid Zakaria. It formalises the ongoing partnership between the two organisations and aims to provide students with industry exposure and practical experience, preparing them for careers in the construction sector.
Under the agreement, UTM and CDL Academy will pursue initiatives including professional training programmes, student internships, academic exchanges, workshops, seminars, and innovation projects in green building materials, advanced construction technologies, and cost management solutions.
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is Malaysia’s premier university for engineering, science, and technology, committed to building partnerships that enrich research output and provide students with real-world learning opportunities. The collaboration with CDL Academy exemplifies UTM’s efforts to equip graduates with the skills and experience needed to contribute effectively to the nation’s development.
Since its inception in 2019, CDL Academy has delivered over 100 seminars and learning engagements, benefiting more than 10,000 participants across the construction and engineering ecosystem. The collaboration with UTM expands these efforts, supporting the development of industry-ready graduates and addressing emerging needs in sustainable construction and advanced building technologies.
The MoU will be in effect for three years, with opportunities for renewal. Coordinators from both parties will oversee programme development to ensure measurable outcomes for students, researchers, and the construction industry. Hashtag: #YTLCement, #CDLAcademy, #UTM, #ESG, #Sustainability, #Construction, #SustainableConstruction
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
CDL Academy Sdn Bhd
CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd. is the professional learning and development platform of the YTL Cement Group, established to support training and talent development within the construction industry. CDL Academy focuses on developing well-trained, industry-ready professionals through structured training and practical knowledge-sharing.
Beyond technical disciplines, CDL Academy serves as a hub for knowledge exchange, innovation and collaboration. It brings together practitioners, academics and universities, as well as industry leaders, industry associations and governing bodies through training programmes, seminars, workshops and strategic partnerships.
Through its commitment to quality education and best-practice sharing, CDL Academy aims to contribute to strengthening industry talent pipelines, supporting university–industry collaboration, and supporting the long-term advancement and sustainability of the construction ecosystem.
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is a premier public research university in Malaysia, specialising in engineering, science and technology. Located in Johor Bahru and with a campus in Kuala Lumpur, UTM is committed to producing globally competitive graduates and advancing cutting-edge research that addresses national and global challenges.
CASABLANCA, MOROCCO – EQS Newswire – 14 January 2026 – ORUN, a subsidiary of African Currency Network (https://ORUN.Africa), announces the launch of the first edition of Heirs of Greatness Day, a foundational initiative that brought together key players from the cultural and creative industries (CCI) in Casablanca.
Conceived as a structuring activation,Heirs of Greatness Day is part of the deployment of a strategic platform combining vision, method, and action. The initiative aims to position CCIs as levers for sustainable development, cultural sovereignty, and African soft power.
Held in a continental context marked by the Africa Cup of Nations and heightened international attention on the continent, the event affirms Casablanca as a symbolic crossroads where creation, transmission, and global projection converge.
At the heart of this activation is The Sovereign Code, the foundational methodology developed by ORUN, structured around three complementary pillars: Memory, Structure, and Transmission. Serving as a true reference framework, The Sovereign Code informs all ORUN programs and seeks to transform African cultural heritage into sustainable value-creation systems that are measurable and enduring.
Heirs of Greatness Day gives concrete expression to this methodology by highlighting the seven Houses of Art: Weaving, Foundry, Crochet, Tannery, Dyeing, Ceramics, and Tailoring. Designed as spaces for transmission, experimentation, and structuring, these Houses bring together master artisans, designers, and partners around a shared ambition: to create a dialogue between ancestral know-how and contemporary standards of creativity, quality, and responsibility.
On this occasion, Roméo Moukagny (Gabon, Senegal), Kader Diaby (Ivory Coast), Anil Padia (Kenya), Jennifer Mulli (Kenya), Henri Philippe Maidou (Central African Republic), Sonia Ahmimou (Morocco, France), and Lucette Holland (Senegal, France) presented works and approaches embodying a rigorous vision of African creation, deeply rooted in local territories while fully oriented toward the international stage.
The day’s program was designed as an immersive and narrative experience, blending institutional sequences, artistic installations, editorial exchanges, and symbolic moments. The evening featured the presence of Her Majesty Queen Temitope Morenike Enitan-Ogunwusi, Queen of the Yoruba People in Nigeria; Olivia Yacé, Miss Ivory Coast, Miss World Africa 2022, 2nd Runner-up Miss World 2022 and Miss Universe nominee; as well as singer Singuila, all coming together to celebrate greatness and exemplify the dialogue between cultural heritage, contemporary creation, and international influence..
The Sovereign Code – Build to outlast time
This cultural showcase reflects ORUN’s commitment to anchoring Heirs of Greatness Dayin a continuity that goes beyond a single event. It was also the occasion for ORUN to receive ISO 20121 certification, attesting to its commitment to responsible and sustainable event management aligned with international standards.
This sustainability policy aligns with ORUN’s mission, The Sovereign Code (Memory, Structure, Transmission), and the core values guiding its action: Transmission, Responsibility, Inclusion and Equity, Excellence and Rigor, Local Anchoring and Lasting Impact, Integrity and Transparency. These principles structure all of ORUN’s commitments and its relationships with partners and stakeholders.
The initiative also benefited from significant diplomatic and institutional support, highlighting the growing recognition of cultural and creative industries as strategic sectors in Africa’s development trajectories. The presence of personalities from cultural, institutional, and international spheres reinforces the symbolic reach and credibility of this first edition.
Finally, Heirs of Greatness Day is part of an ambitious trajectory led by ORUN toward 2025-2030: structuring cultural sectors, building the capacities of designers and artisans, creating skilled employment, developing local value chains, and promoting African talent on the global stage.
This first edition thus marks the starting point of a movement set to establish a lasting presence in the continent’s cultural and economic ecosystem.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of ORUN, part of African Currency Network (ACN).
Image (8): https://apo-opa.co/4b4KZIB Caption: Olivia Yacé, Miss Cote d’Ivoire & Habyba Thiero, Founder CEO of Orun Image (9): https://apo-opa.co/3LAtpBB Caption: Olivia Yacé, Miss Cote d’Ivoire – Her Regal Majesty Olori Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, the Queen (Olori) of the Yoruba kingdom of Ife in Nigeria – SINGUILA, Singer
Image (10): https://apo-opa.co/4qtR5Hm Caption: Massamba, the renowned Rwandan singer, accompanied by his group Hoba Massamba
Image (11): https://apo-opa.co/4pC7nfS Caption: Her Regal Majesty Olori Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, the Queen (Olori) of the Yoruba kingdom of Ife in Nigeria & Habyba Thiero, Founder of Orun (1)
Image (12): https://apo-opa.co/4jZ2PiF Caption: Her Regal Majesty Olori Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, the Queen (Olori) of the Yoruba kingdom of Ife in Nigeria & Habyba Thiero, Founder of Orun(2)
Image (13): https://apo-opa.co/4qlGjCP Caption: Her Regal Majesty Olori Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, the Queen (Olori) of the Yoruba kingdom of Ife in Nigeria & Habyba Thiero, Founder of Orun (3)
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About ORUN:
Backed by African Currency Network (ACN) and a member of the Kigali International Financial Centre, ORUN is a Pan-African organization dedicated to structuring cultural and creative industries (CCI) as levers for sustainable development, cultural sovereignty, and soft power for the African continent.
As a true strategic tool serving African economies, ORUN is engaged in transforming territories by showcasing the continent’s talent and know-how. At the crossroads of creation, design, craftsmanship, and transmission, ORUN converts African professions, stories, and talents into sustainable cultural, economic, and symbolic assets capable of generating local value while engaging with strategic partners and international platforms.
Abu Dhabi has constituted the board of its new sovereign investment platform, L’IMAD Holding Company, marking another step in the emirate’s drive to broaden revenue streams and deepen its presence in global deal-making. The formation of the board, announced by the Abu Dhabi Media Office, places the vehicle alongside a growing roster of state-backed investors tasked with deploying capital across sectors seen as strategic to long-term growth. […]
New targets outlined for 2030 following the successful conclusion of the 25×25 sustainability targets
HONG KONG SAR and SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 January 2026 – Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK stock code: 00101) (“Hang Lung” or the “Company”) today announces a new phase in its sustainability journey, unveiling 20 refreshed 2030 targets that build on its success in achieving its 25 x 25 Sustainability Targets.
Launched in 2021, the 25 x 25 targets defined Hang Lung’s agenda to the end of 2025 across four priorities: Climate Resilience, Resource Management, Wellbeing, and Sustainable Transactions. The Company has achieved its earlier ambitions, and exceeded targets related to greenhouse gas emissions reduction, renewable energy, and energy efficiency. Establishing such a concrete and robust set of targets also helped the Company develop practices in sustainability innovation and continual improvement.
Building on this success, now with expanded data, greater organizational maturity, and heightened ambition, Hang Lung’s refreshed 2030 targets reflect its position as an industry leader in sustainability.
The 20 targets for 2030 continue to be organized under the four priorities that define Hang Lung’s approach to sustainability, including the below highlights:
Climate Resilience: Among the first real estate companies in Asia to have near- and long-term targets fully aligned with the Science Based Target initiative’s Buildings Criteria and its emission reduction pathway (1.5°C). Also, Hang Lung is the first real estate company in Asia to establish a Climate Value-at-Risk target.
Resource Management: The first real estate company in Asia to formulate a target for biodiversity net gain (10%) on all new development projects and major renovations, supporting urban ecosystems and enhancing green spaces.
Wellbeing: Generate at least HK$40 million in social value through community investments.
Sustainable Transactions: Collaborate with tenants representing 25% of our leased floor area through our sustainability partnerships program.
Collaboration across the value chain remains central to Hang Lung’s approach, extending beyond traditional metrics. Hang Lung aims to partner with suppliers and tenants through quantifiable targets to drive progress upstream and downstream. In addition, the Company is committed to supporting innovation in standards development to facilitate impactful sustainability initiatives across sectors and jurisdictions.
Mr. Adriel Chan, Chair of Hang Lung Properties and Chair of the Sustainability Steering Committee, commented: “We are excited to embark on this next phase of our sustainability journey, reflecting Hang Lung’s growing role not just as a leader in sustainability action, but also in sustainability thought leadership. By working closely with partners across our value chain, we are confident that we can deliver on these commitments and continue to foster excellence in sustainable development in Asia.”
Mr. John Haffner, Deputy Director – Sustainability, added: “Over the past several years, we have seen how ambitious targets focus our efforts and help develop a culture of innovation. Building on our achievements and lessons learned, our 2030 targets are sharper and more data-driven, and will help us achieve greater impact in our communities.”
Full details of the 25 x 25 wrap-up and the new 2030 targets will be shared in Hang Lung’s 2025 Sustainability Report to be released in March. The report will provide further insights into the Company’s achievements, lessons learned, and emerging plans to support the refreshed 2030 targets, inviting partners and the wider public to join forces in shaping a sustainable future.
Appendix Overview of 2030 Sustainability Goals and Targets
Priority
2030 Goals
2030 Targets
Climate Resilience
Reduce carbon footprint in line with science and adapt to a changing climate
1. In-use operational emissions: 56.1% per m2 reduction in scope 1, 2 and 3 in-use operational GHG emissions of owned and leased buildings from a 2023 base year.
2. Upfront embodied emissions: 42% reduction in upfront embodied emissions from a 2023 base year.
3. Renewable electricity: 70% of our landlord’s electricity consumption across the portfolio provided by renewable electricity.
4. Adaptation: 10% reduction in our Climate Value-at-Risk compared to the absence of implemented adaptation measures.
Resource Management
Drive efficient and circular use of natural resources and help regenerate nature
5. Energy Use Intensity: 10% reduction in the landlord’s energy use intensity from a 2023 base year.
6. Operational Waste: 35% recycling of municipal solid waste generated from operating properties.
7. Construction Waste: 90% recycling of construction waste generated from construction sites.
8. Water: 8% reduction in freshwater intensity from a 2023 base year.
9. Biodiversity: 10% biodiversity net gain on all new development projects and major renovations with landscape renovation.
Wellbeing
Foster safe, inclusive and healthy spaces that enhance quality of life for all stakeholders
10. Health and safety: Maintain zero work-related fatalities, serious injuries, and occupational diseases for employees and contractors. Maintain a Lost Time Injury Rate of 1.5 or below for employees and contractors.
11. Indoor air quality: Maintain, more than 90% of the time, PM2.5, TVOC and CO2 levels below levels defined in the RESET Air standard.
12. Employee engagement: Maintain an employee engagement survey rating greater than or equal to the 75th percentile.
13. Diversity: At least 5% of our workforce across the portfolio is comprised of people from diverse backgrounds.*
14. Diversity: Maintain Female-to-Male pay ratio of 1:1; maintain gender balance in management positions.
15. Social impact: Create at least HK$40 million in social value through our community investments.
Sustainable Transactions
Collaborate with key stakeholders across our value chain to advance our sustainability priorities
16. Tenant electricity intensity: Benchmarking provided to 100% of tenants across the Chinese Mainland portfolio and work with tenants towards a 10% reduction in their electricity intensity from a 2023 base year.
17. Tenants: Tenants representing 25% of our leased floor area in applicable Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong properties participate in our tenant sustainability partnerships program.
18. Suppliers: Regularly conduct ESG risk screening for 100% of active suppliers and provide ESG assessments for suppliers covering 50% of spending.
19. Procurement: 15% of spending on operational procurement qualifies as sustainable procurement.
20. Standards development: Undertake at least three innovative initiatives in standards development to help accelerate learning and sustainability impact.
* Our definition of diverse background includes people with disabilities and ethnic minorities.
Hashtag: #HangLungProperties
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Hang Lung Properties
Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK stock code: 00101) creates compelling spaces that enrich lives. Headquartered in Hong Kong and Shanghai, the Company manages a portfolio of over 3.5 million square meters of retail, office, residential, and hotel properties across Hong Kong and mainland China.
The Company’s diverse portfolio in Hong Kong includes office towers and malls in prime districts, as well as luxury residential developments in prestigious areas. In mainland China, under the signature “66” brand, the Company’s mixed-use and retail developments are regarded as premium landmarks, strategically located in the hearts of key cities of Shanghai, Shenyang, Jinan, Wuxi, Tianjin, Dalian, Kunming, Wuhan, and Hangzhou.
The Company is recognized for pioneering sustainability in the real estate industry, with an MSCI ESG rating of AA and inclusion on CDP “A List” for Climate Change. The Company powers 80% of its operating properties in the Mainland with renewable energy, with a net zero commitment by 2050.
Germany’s opposition leader Friedrich Merz has suggested that a long-stalled trade agreement between the European Union and India could be clinched by the end of January, injecting momentum into negotiations that Brussels and New Delhi have struggled to close for more than a decade as global supply chains remain under strain from geopolitical frictions.
Speaking at a policy forum, Friedrich Merz said the bloc and India were “closer than many assume” to resolving key differences, adding that the economic case for a deal had sharpened after prolonged disruptions linked to strategic competition between major powers. His comments come as European manufacturers continue to grapple with uneven access to critical inputs following China’s tightening of export controls on minerals vital for electric vehicles, electronics and defence applications.
Negotiations for an EU–India free trade agreement were relaunched in 2022 after an eight-year hiatus, with both sides aiming to expand trade that exceeded €120 billion in goods and services last year. Officials involved in the talks say progress has been made on tariff reductions and rules governing digital trade, though sensitive areas such as agriculture, labour standards and intellectual property remain contentious. Merz’s remarks underscore a growing sense in Berlin and other capitals that the agreement has moved from a strategic aspiration to an economic necessity.
Germany, Europe’s largest economy, has been among the strongest advocates of diversifying trade ties beyond China, particularly after export controls imposed by Beijing on gallium, germanium and graphite created months of bottlenecks for automotive and renewable energy firms. Those controls, introduced amid the broader U. S.–China trade dispute, highlighted vulnerabilities in Europe’s dependence on a narrow set of suppliers for critical raw materials.
Executives in the auto sector say shortages of battery-grade materials last year forced production adjustments and delayed investment decisions. While some supply has since stabilised, industry groups argue that long-term resilience requires deeper partnerships with alternative producers and manufacturing hubs. India, with its expanding industrial base and policy push to attract foreign investment, has emerged as a central pillar of that strategy.
European officials note that the proposed agreement would not only cut tariffs—currently as high as 60 per cent on some vehicles entering India—but also establish clearer rules for public procurement and data flows. For India, the deal promises greater access to the European market for pharmaceuticals, textiles and IT services, while also encouraging technology transfer and skills development.
Trade analysts caution that closing the pact by late January would require political compromises on both sides. European negotiators have pressed for stronger environmental and labour commitments, while Indian counterparts have sought flexibility to protect small farmers and domestic manufacturers. Still, the geopolitical context is shifting calculations. The European Union has accelerated its “open strategic autonomy” agenda, seeking to balance openness with security of supply, and India has signalled willingness to align more closely with Western economies without abandoning its strategic independence.
Merz’s intervention also reflects domestic pressures within Germany, where exporters are seeking new growth markets as demand in China cools. German industry groups have repeatedly urged policymakers to prioritise agreements with fast-growing economies, arguing that delays risk ceding ground to competitors from East Asia and North America.
The broader backdrop includes intensifying scrutiny of China’s role in global supply chains. Beijing has defended its export controls as legitimate measures to safeguard national security and manage resources, but the ripple effects have reinforced calls in Europe for diversification. The European Commission has already launched initiatives to secure access to lithium, cobalt and rare earths through partnerships in Africa, Latin America and Asia, with India seen as both a market and a manufacturing partner.
Diplomats familiar with the EU–India talks say technical chapters are largely drafted, leaving political decisions to bridge remaining gaps. Any agreement would still need approval from member states and the European Parliament, a process that could extend beyond the negotiating deadline even if a political deal is struck.
Chainlink’s token LINK is showing signs of technical strain as chart patterns point to a bearish pennant forming against a backdrop of fading institutional demand for exchange-traded crypto products tied to the oracle network. The setup has drawn attention across digital-asset desks at a time when broader crypto markets remain sensitive to shifts in liquidity, regulatory signals and risk appetite. LINK has spent several weeks consolidating after […]
Google has unveiled a Universal Commerce Protocol designed to allow artificial intelligence agents to search, recommend and complete purchases across multiple retail platforms, marking a strategic push to standardise how online shopping works in an era of increasingly autonomous digital assistants. The announcement was made at the 2026 National Retail Federation conference, where technology providers and merchants gathered to outline priorities for the year ahead. The protocol […]
Meta has secured access to as much as 6.6 gigawatts of nuclear power through a cluster of agreements with established utilities and advanced reactor developers, underscoring how the energy demands of artificial intelligence are rewriting the investment playbook for Big Tech and the power sector alike. The arrangements, involving power supply and development pathways with Vistra, Constellation, TerraPower and Oklo, aim to underpin Meta’s expanding network of […]
Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company occupies a pivotal place in the UAE’s insurance sector, combining longevity with scale as it navigates a market shaped by regulatory tightening, rising claims costs and growing demand for specialised cover. Founded in 1972 and headquartered in the capital, the company was the first insurer licensed in the emirate, a distinction that continues to inform its market stature more than five decades […]
Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East will stage its opening rounds of the 2026 season at Dubai Autodrome on 24 and 25 January, bringing one of the region’s most competitive one-make racing championships back to the United Arab Emirates after an interval away from the circuit. The event will be hosted by Porsche Centre Dubai and Northern Emirates, part of Al Nabooda Automobiles, and is expected to draw […]
Cocos, the long-running developer of cross-platform game technology, has moved its Cocos 4 game engine from a proprietary model to full open source, a step that reshapes its relationship with developers and signals a strategic shift in the competitive middleware market. The company confirmed that the entire Cocos 4 engine codebase is now available under an open-source licence, allowing studios and independent developers to inspect, modify and […]
ADNOC Drilling has formally entered Oman’s onshore drilling services sector, marking a strategic expansion beyond its core home market after completing the purchase of a controlling stake in a land-rig joint venture with SLB that operates six rigs in the sultanate. The move positions the company to participate more directly in Oman’s upstream development plans at a time when regional producers are prioritising operational efficiency, drilling intensity […]
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