Singapore grows 5.4% as manufacturing momentum eases
Advance third-quarter estimates show continued expansion, with a pullback in manufacturing from the previous quarter.
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China’s factory PMI returns to expansion, but smaller firms lag
The September survey rose to 50.1, while employment and smaller-enterprise readings remained below the threshold.
India’s UPI scale puts payment security at the centre of inclusion
A Finance Ministry disclosure records 554.9 million onboarded users and outlines safeguards for the digital payments network.
Bank of Japan’s September decision highlights an inflation balancing act
The policy rate moved to around 1.25%, while published opinions reveal disagreement over the strength of domestic demand.
Australia sheds 39,300 jobs as September labour data soften
Part-time employment fell, while the statistics bureau urges caution over monthly volatility and survey changes.
A Singapore charity turns home-based skills into income for women who can't work full-time
Rise and Thrive pairs lower-income women in Singapore with mentors to build small home businesses. Begun as a single volunteering stint, it has since supported 91 women through training, sales networks and community.
Ten years on, a charity born in a rainstorm is still changing how Singapore sees migrant workers
It's Raining Raincoats started when lawyer Dipa Swaminathan stopped for two workers sheltering under cardboard. A decade later it runs meals, gifts and community events, while pressing for better pay and safer transport.
Indonesia holds its policy rate while expanding currency hedging incentives
Bank Indonesia combines a 5.75% rate with measures aimed at capital inflows, lending and digital payments.
Viet Nam secures $666.74 million for trade links and coastal livelihoods
Three World Bank-backed projects target Hai Phong transport, Mekong roads and sustainable fisheries.
Malaysia’s advance GDP estimate shows 5.3% third-quarter growth
The early estimate points to continued expansion, with a fuller GDP release scheduled for November.
Singapore’s port handled a record 41.12 million containers in 2024
A January 2025 maritime review recorded rising cargo volumes, fuel sales and maritime business spending.