Economy

Singapore furniture industry in for a productivity boost

The government is eyeing a 20% increase in worker value-added and wider global reach.

Singapore furniture industry in for a productivity boost

The government is eyeing a 20% increase in worker value-added and wider global reach.

Manufacturing sector cut 1,900 jobs in Q4 2011

Wage growth across sectors meanwhile slowed to 4.0% in Q4 from 5.4% in Q3.

Private banks must focus on strong branding strategy to increase share in Asia’s booming wealth market

There are now more millionaires in Asia-Pacific than in Europe and their numbers are nearing that of North America. According to the latest Capgemini...

Gadget sales slumped in Singapore in Q42011

Of the five key Southeast Asian markets, Singapore was the only one to contract at 11.7%.

Singapore's per capita GDP to surge 30% by 2020

The gap between Singaporeans' living standards and other ASEAN citizens will definitely widen - now isn't that something?

More Singaporeans believe job options are shrinking

Job optimism is on a marked decline with 46% believing there are "not enough" opportunities.

Are you also bracing for a pay freeze?

New survey shows roughly a quarter of Singaporeans do not expect any form of raise in 2012.

China growth target wavers to 7.5%

The country lowered its 2012 growth forecast to below 8%, the first time it has done so in eight years.

How low can India growth go?

Expect the Indian economy to grow even slower than 4Q11, the worst quarter in three years.

Korea manufacturing inched up 3.3%

January growth is first in months but it has a long recovery road ahead, says Morgan Stanley.

Why Singapore businesses need to put Asia first

Before long Asia will shed its role as a low cost production source and mature into a lucrative market.

Some Asian corporates seen to default in 2012

Rated Asia Pacific (ex-Japan) non-financial corporates showed no defaults in 2011 compared to 2 in 2010; what’s the score in 2012?

Asian companies most keen to invest in Europe

The ongoing crisis in the eurozone is presenting more opportunities for M&A, but this time it is from East to West, a survey show.

100 economists calling for allowing of capital controls in Asia

Move could be a disaster for Singapore which relies on free and open trade.

Chart of the day: Oil price hikes in Asian countries

Oil prices in Singapore rose by 12% in February compared to a year ago, tracking a weak trend in Asia.

All services sectors posted growth in 4Q11 except one

The education services industry registered a decline of 5.5% in business receipts.

Who wins in the new India budget?

The infrastructure and utilities sectors are seen to receive windfalls from the upcoming F2013 budget.