U.S. bank stocks surge amid cooler-than-expected inflation data; deVere CEO predicts ‘perfect soft landing’

Cooler-than-expected inflation data propels U.S. bank stocks, fostering belief of a ‘soft landing’ for the economy, according to deVere CEO Nigel Green. He predicts solid growth in tech, healthcare, and infrastructure sectors amid enhanced economic stability.

Temasek Holdings holds talks over Ant Group’s slashed valuation of its shares of US$150 billion to US$78.8 billion

Temasek Holdings is in talks with Ant Group over its slashed valuation, from US$150 billion to US$78.8 billion, before deciding on a share buyback participation amid struggles with crypto investments.

Timeline of Thai politics as parliament votes for PM

Thailand’s parliament convened for a prime ministerial vote, but frontrunner Pita Limjaroenrat faced obstacles hindering his path to power. This vote is a culmination of two turbulent decades in the nation’s history, marked by political upheaval, coups, protests, and a struggle for democracy. Pita’s chances are slim, as he needs to secure the support of conservative senators who oppose his party’s plans for monarchy reform, while also dealing with legal cases against him and his party.

Ministry of Education suspends teacher amidst serious sexual offence allegations

Suspended since early July, Kenneth Seah Wei Yuan, a former teacher employed by the Ministry of Education, faces multiple charges related to sexual offences with underage girls. Seah is currently held at the Changi Prison Complex medical centre for medical examination. If convicted, Seah faces severe penalties for each of his charges. Each count of engaging in sexual relations with a minor carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a substantial fine.

APHR calls for ASEAN leaders not to fall for Myanmar junta’s blatant attempt at manipulation

ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights Co-Chairperson Charles Santiago criticized the Thai Foreign Minister’s visit to Myanmar, terming it a ‘blatant manipulation’, and urged ASEAN leaders to maintain focus on a human rights and humanitarian-focused agenda.

Divided ASEAN grapples for united Myanmar stance

ASEAN foreign ministers continued to work on a united position regarding the Myanmar crisis, with no agreement reached yet on a communique. Efforts by Thailand and Indonesia are diverging, potentially undermining ASEAN’s peace plan.

China exports plunge in June, deepening economic woes

Chinese exports fell in June, increasing pressure on Beijing for additional stimulus measures to revive the economy. Weak demand in key markets and external factors contribute to the decline. Imports also dropped, reinforcing concerns about softening domestic demand.

Reversing vehicle claims life of migrant worker at Jurong West site, prompting MOM investigation

A 33-year-old Indian worker was killed by a reversing vehicle at a Jurong West worksite on Monday, sparking a Ministry of Manpower investigation into safety measures and operations.

Musk launches xAI to rival OpenAI, Google

Elon Musk launched xAI, his own AI company, to rival OpenAI. The goal is to understand reality and tackle life’s biggest questions. The team includes former researchers from OpenAI, Google DeepMind, Tesla, and the University of Toronto. Musk criticizes OpenAI’s political bias and irresponsibility.