The private equity market in Asia Pacific experienced a significant decline last year, with the total value of deals dropping to the lowest level since 2014. According to Bain & Company, the decrease can be attributed to slowing growth, high interest rates, and volatile public markets. Fundraising also reached a 10-year low, adding to the
World
During the recent Palm Sunday Mass at St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis made a last-minute decision to skip his homily. This decision came as a surprise to many, as it is not common for the Pope to forgo delivering a message during such an important service. The 87-year-old pontiff, known for his humility and dedication
The world was left stunned when Princess Kate disclosed that she had been diagnosed with cancer and was currently undergoing chemotherapy. This revelation came after she had major abdominal surgery in London, where it was initially believed that her condition was noncancerous. The news of her diagnosis sent shock waves through the royal family and
The U.K.’s Competition and Markets Authority’s recent announcement regarding Vodafone’s proposed merger with rival CK Hutchison has raised concerns about the potential implications for the country’s mobile market. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has expressed worries that the merger could lead to a substantial lessening of competition, resulting in higher prices for consumers and
In a recent decision, the Bank of England chose to maintain interest rates at 5.25%, showing hints of potential cuts in the future due to decreasing inflation rates. The Monetary Policy Committee voted 8-1 to keep rates stable, with one member advocating for a 25 basis point reduction to 5%. This decision is a divergence
Singapore has been named the happiest country in Asia for the second consecutive year, as per the 2024 World Happiness Report released recently. This report, which ranks countries based on the subjective quality of life ratings given by individuals, is a collaborative effort of leading researchers and well-being scientists around the world. The ranking is
Japan’s central bank recently made a significant move by raising interest rates for the first time since 2007. This decision marked the end of the world’s only negative rates regime, signaling a shift in the country’s economic policies. The Bank of Japan’s move came in response to early signs of robust wage gains in the
China recently released economic data for the first two months of the year that exceeded analysts’ expectations. Retail sales, industrial production, and fixed asset investment all showed growth that outperformed forecasts. This positive economic data is a promising sign for the country’s recovery. Retail sales in China rose by 5.5%, surpassing the 5.2% increase that
In a country where youth unemployment rates are soaring and traditional job-hunting methods seem ineffective, young people in China are turning to unconventional platforms like Tinder in search of career opportunities. Facing fierce competition and a scarcity of job opportunities, job seekers like Jade Liang are resorting to creative approaches to connect with professionals in
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently made headlines for using a Russian luxury limousine gifted to him by President Vladimir Putin. Kim’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, publicly praised the special features of the car and emphasized the growing friendship between North Korea and Russia. The high-end Aurus Senat limousine, presented to Kim by Putin
