South Asia has been one of the least integrated regions in the world for decades. Political struggles have often overridden the economic rationale. Trade is constrained, regional institutions are stat…
Malaysia – Singapore border economic zone sees robust investment growth
The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) attracted 19 billion USD in approved investments in 2025, with more than 57% of cumulative approved projects already entering the implementation stag…
Indonesia rolls out B50, moves to end diesel imports
Indonesia has officially launched its mandatory B50 biodiesel programme today, which the government said would enable the country to eliminate diesel imports for the first time. Energy and Mineral Res…
South-East Asia’s next growth cycle to be driven by ‘Fabulous Five’, says economist
South-East Asia’s next growth cycle will not be written by one economy, one commodity cycle or one manufacturing corridor, but will instead be shaped by five economies, namely Malaysia, Indonesia, Tha…
Tokenization Can Change the World’s Financial Architecture
Policy choices will determine whether tokenized finance strengthens or fragments the financial system Tokenization is often described as a technological upgrade enabling faster settlement, cheaper pay…
USDC’s Massive Surge: The Real Story of How Stablecoins Are Tokenizing the Future of Capital Markets
The numbers stopped looking like crypto numbers a while ago. USDC’s onchain transaction volume hit $21.5 trillion in the first quarter of 2026, a 263% jump year-over-year. Circulation sits near $73 bi…
How AI could help companies achieve ESG targets
Strategic AI implementation makes companies more efficient, but does it make them more sustainable? The answer is complicated. By enabling firms to streamline workflows, process data, and monitor supp…
World Bank Backs Sri Lanka’s Reform Agenda with US$150 Million to Drive Growth and Resilience
The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors approved US$150 million in financing to support Sri Lanka’s reform agenda aimed at boosting investment, strengthening competitiveness, and creating jobs. …
Philippines accelerates El Niño preparations for agriculture
The Philippine Department of Agriculture is shifting to a data-driven, integrated food systems approach for the second half of 2026, with Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. calling for …
Malaysia’s Palm Oil Council eyes Nigeria expansion as demand grows
Malaysia’s Palm Oil Council (MPOC) is eyeing expansion in Nigeria, a key market for the country’s palm oil exports, as demand for the commodity continues to grow. Belvinder Sron, chief executive offic…