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Author: Mei Ling Tan

Amundi Amplifies Asia Presence with Key Appointment in Investment Specialist Team

Leading French asset management company, Amundi, has recently enhanced its team of investment specialists in Asia, welcoming a new addition to their ranks.

New Appointment Bolsters Team

Amundi has announced the appointment of Chloe Shea to the position of Head of Investment Specialists, Multi-Asset and Solutions for Asia, excluding Japan. In her new role, Shea will work closely with clients and portfolio managers. Utilizing Amundi’s research and investment platform, Shea is set to develop solutions that generate alpha.

Hong Kong Base

Shea will be based in Hong Kong and will report to Florian Neto, the Head of Investment for Asia, and Dan Levy, the Head of Solutions Business Development and Investment Specialists.

Extensive Industry Experience

Shea brings with her over 15 years of experience in client consulting, manager research, and multi-asset investments. Her previous roles include an Investment Director position at Schroder Investment Management’s multi-asset team. Earlier in her career, she was also employed at Manulife Asset Management and Towers Watson Investment Services.

Questions & Answers

Who has Amundi recently appointed to their investment specialist team in Asia?

Amundi has recently appointed Chloe Shea as the Head of Investment Specialists, Multi-Asset and Solutions for Asia, excluding Japan.

What will be Chloe Shea’s role?

Chloe Shea will work closely with clients and portfolio managers to develop alpha-generating solutions using Amundi’s research and investment platform.

What is Chloe Shea’s industry experience?

Shea brings over 15 years of industry experience, including her previous role as an Investment Director at Schroder Investment Management’s multi-asset team. She has also worked at Manulife Asset Management and Towers Watson Investment Services.

November 11, 2025
DBS and Franklin Templeton Pioneer Singapore’s First Tokenized Retail Fund: A Leap towards Digital Finance

Singapore has made a bold move towards mainstream digital finance through the launch of its first tokenized retail fund. The innovative initiative, the result of a collaboration between Franklin Templeton and DBS Bank, offers a US dollar short-term money market strategy recorded on a blockchain register. With a minimum requirement of just US$20, it’s anticipated to be available to retail customers in the first quarter of 2026.

Market Approval and Distribution

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has granted its approval for the fund, known as the Franklin Onchain US Dollar Short-Term Money Market Fund. This endorsement ushers in a regulated, low-volatility cash vehicle on blockchain rails. The process of tokenization allows for fractional ownership, expedited record-keeping, and near real-time transparency, all while maintaining the familiar economic structure of a money market fund.

For now, the fund is accessible through DBS relationship managers for wealth clients and accredited investors, with plans for a broader retail rollout in 2026. The low minimum requirement of US$20 significantly reduces the barrier to entry compared to traditional share classes, making high-quality, short-duration U.S. dollar assets more accessible to a wider range of investors.

The Importance of Tokenization

The adoption of an on-chain share register provides investors with increased transparency, including daily yield accrual and real-time fund data. It also results in improved operational efficiency in the subscription, transfer, and redemption processes. The blockchain’s tamper-resistant ledger further enhances auditability throughout the investment lifecycle.

The tokenized model follows closely in the footsteps of Franklin Templeton’s Luxembourg-domiciled US Dollar Short Term Money Market Fund, a strategy boasting over 30 years of performance history. The key benefits? Liquidity, capital stability, and competitive cash yields, now amplified by the speed and transparency offered by blockchain technology.

Powered by Proprietary Technology

The Benji Technology Platform, Franklin Templeton’s proprietary solution, drives the fund’s blockchain-integrated record-keeping and administration. This technology stack is also available as a white-label infrastructure for banks and asset managers looking to tokenize securities or support fully on-chain money market funds across a variety of use cases, including retail, wealth, institutional, and collateral.

Reducing Entry Barriers through Digital Innovation

DBS Bank, known for its digital leadership and financial robustness, targets this investment opportunity at the mass-affluent and retail segments. Franklin Templeton, having been involved in digital assets since 2018, has demonstrated its commitment to advancing the tokenization of financial assets by launching the first fully tokenized UCITS fund in 2024.

Future Expectations

For investors, the core economics remain the same as in a traditional cash fund, but the added advantage of blockchain registry provides faster settlement, better transparency, and potential integration with programmable finance. The retail launch timeline, secondary-market transfer mechanisms, and tokenization adoption rate by other banks and asset managers will be key milestones to watch.

Questions & Answers

What is the significance of the tokenized fund?
Participating in the fund allows investors to take advantage of enhanced transparency, faster record-keeping, and near real-time transparency while preserving the familiar economics of a money market fund.

Who currently has access to the fund?
The fund is immediately available to DBS Bank’s wealth clients and accredited investors, with a broader retail rollout planned for 2026.

What is the minimum investment requirement for the fund?
The minimum requirement to participate in the fund is just US$20, significantly reducing the barrier to entry compared to traditional share classes.

November 11, 2025
Apple Ventures into Health AI: Unveiling a Chatbot-Powered Health+ Subscription Service

Despite previous assurances of releasing an improved Siri, Apple has yet to introduce any significant artificial intelligence (AI) features. However, the company is still ambitious about its AI agenda for 2026, with a significant update planned for the Health app.

AI-Powered Health+ Service in the Works

The tech giant is rumored to be developing an enhanced version of its Health app, complete with a new Health+ subscription service. The proposed service is expected to incorporate an AI component designed to assist users in managing their health.

The introduction of this service could position Apple at the forefront of the emerging AI health chatbot market. Features are expected to include nutrition tracking and AI-facilitated health coaching. These enhancements could potentially offer users personalized health advice, expert video content relating to different health issues, and guidance on living a healthier lifestyle.

A Delay in AI Development

Apple is reportedly set to introduce the long-awaited new version of Siri with iOS 26.4 in April. Additionally, the company is said to be working on a comprehensive revamp of the voice assistant, slated for release with iOS 27. This update also promises an AI-powered web search tool.

A year after unveiling the “Made for Apple Intelligence” iPhone 16 series, Apple continues to trail its rivals. Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series boasts various Galaxy AI features, while Google’s Pixel 10 devices have Gemini on board. In comparison, Apple’s iPhone 17 series lacks any comparable features. Even the forthcoming OnePlus 15, equipped with the Android 16-based OxygenOS 16, incorporates advanced AI capabilities courtesy of Gemini.

Apple’s strategy to enhance its standing in the smartphone AI market reportedly involves the development of a custom-made Gemini AI model, a move which could result in Apple paying Google $1 billion annually.

Is Another Subscription Necessary?

While there is some hope that Apple could deliver a beneficial health chatbot, the prospect of yet another subscription service may not be well-received. Although Apple will likely incorporate Health+ into Apple One and raise its price, the emerging trend of subscription fatigue indicates that any new service must offer substantial value to attract potential subscribers. Unfortunately, as it stands, the proposed Health+ service may not be sufficiently appealing.

Questions & Answers

– **What is Apple’s proposed enhancement to the Health app?**
Apple is reportedly developing a Health+ subscription service with AI integration, designed to assist users in managing their health.

– **How might this new Health+ service impact Apple’s standing in the AI market?**
The introduction of this AI health chatbot could potentially position Apple as a leader in this emerging market.

– **Why might Apple’s proposed subscription service face challenges?**
Given the increasing prevalence of subscription fatigue among consumers, the value offered by any new subscription service must outweigh its cost to gain traction. As it stands, the proposed Health+ service may not be sufficiently compelling.

November 11, 2025
Fitbit’s Exciting Redesign: An Exclusive Peek at the Modern Look and AI Coach for Premium Users

The Fitbit application is undergoing a significant transformation, a move that has been anticipated by many. Some users are already experiencing the new updates, indicating that Google’s aim to give Fitbit a comprehensive Material 3 makeover is finally coming to fruition.

Fitbit Receives a Visual Overhaul

Last month, Google launched the Gemini-powered AI coach as a preview feature. Now, it has been reported that Fitbit Premium users in the US have gained access to the Material 3 Expressive redesign as part of a public preview. The new AI coach and the visual revamp are expected to be officially available to all users next year.

The redesign incorporates Google’s Material 3 Expressive (M3E) style into the Android app, along with several navigation adjustments. The bottom bar has been made shorter, and synchronizing your Pixel Watch or Fitbit device is as simple as swiping down from any of the four tabs.

When you do this, you’ll notice a circular loading animation cycling through the distinctive M3E shapes. Once the synchronization is complete, the “Fitbit Premium” label vanishes from the app bar and is replaced by a linear progress indicator.

The new expressive shapes are also noticeable in various sections of the app, such as the checkmark animation that appears when you achieve a goal. Each metric view now features a floating toolbar with a floating action button (FAB) to switch between time frames. For statistics such as Steps and Sleep, you can switch between Day, Week, Month, 3 Months, or Year.

Every pill-shaped bar includes a floating button that opens the personal health coach. The Today, Fitness, and Sleep sections now utilize a layered sheet-style design. The top statistics are displayed on a themed background, while the remaining content appears on a card layer that expands as you scroll. The distinct color themes – teal for fitness and purple for sleep – provide aesthetic separation.

However, Dynamic Color is still absent. The bottom bar, toolbar, and FAB currently rely on Fitbit’s default blue accent.

Google Delivers on its Promise

Despite the redesign still being in preview stage, it’s encouraging to see Google fulfilling its promise to revamp Fitbit. The app plays a crucial role in the entire Fitbit experience. Whether using a tracker or smartwatch, it’s the hub for all health and fitness data. As such, giving it a design that aligns with other Google products is a positive development.

From the preview screenshots, the layout appears a bit cluttered at the moment. However, this is an issue that can be easily resolved before the full release. For Fitbit Premium subscribers, it’s certainly worth exploring the update in its early stages. While it’s not perfect yet, it’s evident that Google is committed to making Fitbit more cohesive and modern.

Questions & Answers

What is the main aim of Fitbit’s redesign?
The main goal is to modernize the Fitbit app, giving it a design that matches other Google products. This is part of Google’s effort to make Fitbit more cohesive and modern.

What new features have been added as part of the redesign?
The redesign incorporates Google’s Material 3 Expressive (M3E) style into the Fitbit app, along with several navigation adjustments. There’s a new AI coach, a shorter bottom bar, unique color themes for different sections, and new expressive shapes throughout the app.

When can all Fitbit users expect to access these new features?
The new AI coach and the visual revamp are currently in the preview stage but are expected to roll out officially to all users next year.

November 11, 2025
Samsung Set to Shake Up Personal Finance: Barclays Partnership Brings Samsung Credit Card to Compete with Apple

Samsung is reportedly preparing to launch a Samsung-branded credit card in the United States, in a strategic collaboration with Barclays that will capitalize on Visa’s extensive global payment network.

Samsung Eyes U.S. Financial Sphere

Samsung is reportedly planning to broaden its financial services portfolio in the U.S. market. A partnership with the British banking giant, Barclays, would provide a solid foundation for both companies to further penetrate the U.S. market. For Samsung, this means fostering increased loyalty within its client base; for Barclays, it opens up opportunities for greater lending scope.

The formal announcement of the partnership is expected by the end of the year, with Visa being selected to manage the payment network.

If successful, the Samsung credit card is unlikely to be a singular venture. It has been suggested that the credit card could be the cornerstone of a more expansive financial product offering, potentially involving a high-yield savings account, a digital prepaid account, and even a buy-now, pay-later option.

Samsung’s Bid to Emulate Apple’s Success

With this move, Samsung is evidently looking to replicate Apple’s successful foray into the U.S. financial sector. Apple has already established a strong foothold in the country with the Apple Card and Apple Pay, while Samsung’s financial tools have yet to achieve similar success.

Samsung anticipates that by launching its own credit card, it can further solidify its ecosystem through Samsung Wallet. The card could provide cashback rewards that are directly deposited into users’ Samsung accounts, offering them an easy way to finance future purchases. This setup is expected to encourage users to remain within Samsung’s ecosystem, regardless of whether they’re purchasing a new Galaxy phone, a TV, or even a smart refrigerator.

This strategy reflects the approach taken by Apple back in 2019 when it launched the Apple Card, in cooperation with Goldman Sachs and Mastercard. The card, which offers cashback benefits and interest-free financing for Apple products, has been successful in substantial growth of Apple’s financial presence.

Broadening Samsung’s Ecosystem

Samsung and Apple have been longstanding competitors in the smartphone market, but as hardware advancements slow down, the focus of competition is shifting towards ecosystem services. Financial products such as the prospective credit card could enable Samsung to fortify its relationship with U.S. consumers, thereby enhancing the relevance of Samsung Wallet.

If Samsung’s plans come to fruition, it could be a significant step into the realm of personal finance. It’s clear that the ongoing rivalry with Apple is evolving, moving from a battle over pocket space to a contest for wallet share.

Questions & Answers

What is Samsung’s projected strategy for the U.S. financial market?
Samsung reportedly plans to launch a Samsung-branded credit card, in partnership with Barclays and utilizing Visa’s global payment network, with potential future offerings including a high-yield savings account and a digital prepaid account.

What is the aim of Samsung’s credit card venture?
Samsung hopes to enhance customer loyalty and keep users within its ecosystem by offering incentives such as cashback rewards which can be easily used for future purchases.

How does this move reflect the changing competition between Samsung and Apple?
As hardware development slows, competition is shifting to ecosystem services. Both companies are expanding into the financial sector, with Samsung’s credit card venture marking a new stage in its rivalry with Apple.

November 11, 2025
Indosat’s AI-Driven Shield: Blocking 200 Million Spam & Scam Contacts in 90 Days!

Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (IOH) has announced significant success in the initial months following the launch of its AI-powered Anti-Spam and Anti-Scam feature. Just three months after its introduction, the feature has blocked hundreds of millions of potential digital fraud attempts. Launched on August 7, 2025, the tool has intercepted more than 200 million potentially harmful calls, flagged over 90 million dubious messages, and safeguarded an average of 11.5 million customers per month from possible scams.

Artificial Intelligence Meets 5G

This anti-fraud feature is a key component of Indosat’s AIvolusi5G program, an initiative that combines the power of artificial intelligence with cutting-edge 5G technology to enhance the safety and dependability of the network. This system works automatically on a network level, screening calls and messages for possible fraudulent activities. This does not necessitate the installation of additional applications or the use of specific devices by customers.

According to the Global Anti-Scam Alliance’s 2025 State of Scams in Indonesia report, 66% of Indonesian adults have been the target of scam attempts in the past year, with 14% suffering financial losses totaling IDR 49 trillion (USD 3.3 billion). The majority of these scams have taken place through direct-messaging channels like SMS and chat platforms.

Impressive Results

Indosat’s internal data has revealed that the company’s VoLTE network alone has detected over 290 million spam calls. When expanded to encompass Indosat’s entire customer base, this results in more than 500 million identified scam and spam calls and messages within just two and a half months. Additionally, the system has flagged over 145 million spam and scam messages, which includes 110 million confirmed fraudulent messages.

Bilal Khazmi, Director and Chief Commercial Officer of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, commented on the results, saying: “Our technology is designed to help customers of all age groups navigate the digital world with increased confidence. By offering fast connectivity, accessible products, and robust protection, we remain dedicated to delivering superior digital experiences that connect and empower every Indonesian.”

While the system has not managed to block all malicious communications, Indosat has noted that its early warning alerts have contributed to reducing financial losses and increasing public awareness of online threats. Customers receive alerts about potentially harmful numbers or messages before they interact with them, enabling them to take preventative measures.

Indosat’s approach to cybersecurity follows the Zero Trust principle, which emphasizes verification over trust assumptions. This principle forms the foundation of Indosat’s efforts to combine technological safeguards with continuous digital literacy programs.

Questions & Answers

What is the AIvolusi5G program?
The AIvolusi5G program is an initiative by Indosat that merges artificial intelligence with 5G technology to improve the security and reliability of their network.

What is the primary goal of Indosat’s Anti-Spam and Anti-Scam feature?
The primary goal of this feature is to protect customers from potential digital fraud attempts by screening calls and messages for suspicious activity.

How does Indosat’s cybersecurity approach work?
Indosat follows the Zero Trust principle, prioritizing verification over trust assumptions. This approach underpins their efforts to combine technological safeguards with ongoing digital literacy programs.

November 11, 2025
Singtel Unlocks SGD 1.5B in Airtel Stake Sale: A Strategic Move Towards Portfolio Optimization

Singapore Telecommunications Limited (Singtel) has divested approximately 0.8% of their direct investment in their regional associate, Airtel. The sale generated SGD 1.5 billion, marking an important step in Singtel’s ongoing plan to streamline operations via asset recycling. The transaction was conducted through a private placement to institutional investors, a move that demonstrates significant market demand and confidence in Airtel. It is anticipated that the sale will yield profits of around SGD 1.1 billion.

Singtel’s Strategy and Outcome

The Group Chief Financial Officer of Singtel, Mr. Arthur Lang, shed some light on the company’s strategy. He explained that Singtel has been collaborating closely with Bharti Enterprises to gradually balance their effective stake in Airtel. He further affirmed that the transactions have allowed them to unlock value while retaining a significant stake in Airtel. This approach enables them to continue to invest in India’s rapidly growing digital economy.

Mr. Lang spoke of the success of the capital management program, which he said has already amassed SGD 5.6 billion. This is over half of their recently adjusted mid-term asset recycling target of SGD 9 billion. He explained that this financial strategy affords Singtel the flexibility to bolster its balance sheet, fund growth opportunities in digital infrastructure and services, and ensure sustainable dividend growth.

Progress and Future Plans

As of May 2025, Singtel had already exceeded half of its original SGD 6 billion mid-term asset recycling target, which had been declared a year prior. Following this achievement, the target was revised to SGD 9 billion. The raised capital will be directed towards supporting growth and providing capital returns via its value realization dividend and share buyback program.

In the wake of this recent transaction, Singtel is set to retain a 27.5% stake in Airtel. The retained stake is estimated to be worth approximately SGD 51 billion.

Questions & Answers

What is Singtel’s ongoing strategy?
Singtel is optimizing its portfolio through asset recycling, which includes selling some of its stakes in associates and investing the proceeds in new growth opportunities.

What is expected to be the outcome of Singtel’s recent divestment from Airtel?
The sale is expected to yield profits of around SGD 1.1 billion, contributing to their mid-term asset recycling target of SGD 9 billion.

What is the future of Singtel’s investment in Airtel?
Following the recent transaction, Singtel will retain a significant 27.5% stake in Airtel, demonstrating its continued commitment to invest in India’s digital economy.

November 11, 2025
Philippines’ Top Data Centers Unite to Boost Nation’s Rise as Southeast Asia’s Digital Powerhouse

The Philippines’ prominent data center operators have officially collaborated to establish the Data Center Operators of the Philippines (DCPH). This unified alliance aims to fortify the country’s standing as the upcoming digital hub of Southeast Asia.

Forming a New Alliance

This groundbreaking collaboration was solidified through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which was signed by representatives from leading companies such as VITRO Inc., ST Telemedia Global Data Centres (Philippines), YCO Cloud, Digital Edge Philippines, Digital Halo, and A-FLOW. This last company is a joint venture between FLOW Digital Infrastructure and AyalaLand Logistics Holdings Corp. Collectively, these companies have a shared goal of enhancing the Philippines’ regional competitiveness in the global digital economy. This is achievable through the strengthening of data center infrastructure and industry collaboration.

DCPH’s Role and Purpose

The DCPH members, who represent an impressive combined 473 MW of IT power capacity, will act as a united voice for the Philippine data center industry. The alliance aims to encourage collaboration among key sectors to improve infrastructure and innovation. This includes collaborating with the power industry to ensure competitive rates and renewable energy access. Additionally, they aim to partner with telecommunications providers to enhance connectivity. They will also work with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to advocate supportive policies, such as data localization. Another goal is to develop local talent and maintain industry growth in the face of increasing demand for hyperscale, AI, and other next-generation technologies.

The Importance of Data Localization

The group has highlighted that data localization is crucial for data processed and stored by the public sector. Keeping government data within the nation helps safeguard national security and protect citizen information. Countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia have already introduced robust data localization policies. These countries recognize citizen data as a strategic national asset that supports data sovereignty and economic growth. By implementing similar strategies, the Philippines can enhance infrastructure resilience, attract more cloud and AI investments, and position itself as a top-rated digital hub in the region. This would facilitate the smooth flow of data across borders to support the digital economy.

Questions & Answers

What is the goal of the Data Center Operators of the Philippines (DCPH)?
The DCPH aims to bolster the Philippines’ regional competitiveness in the global digital economy by strengthening data center infrastructure and encouraging industry collaboration.

What is the significance of data localization?
Data localization is vital for ensuring the security of data processed and stored by the public sector. It safeguards national security and protects citizen information.

How can the Philippines position itself as a leading digital hub in the region?
By implementing robust data localization policies and developing local talent, the Philippines can attract greater investments in cloud and AI technologies. This would enhance infrastructure resilience and support the seamless flow of data across borders.

November 11, 2025
Drop By Dough: Thailand’s Doughnut Sensation Makes Sweet International Debut in Hong Kong

Drop By Dough, a renowned doughnut brand from Thailand, has launched its first international outlet in Hong Kong.

Store Design and Location

Situated in Central Hong Kong, the shop’s interior combines terracotta tiles and wooden furniture to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The founders aim to provide a haven of relaxation where customers can momentarily escape the frenetic pace of the city while indulging in freshly made doughnuts and coffee.

Origins of Drop By Dough

Drop By Dough was established in Bangkok in December 2019 by Narongrit Sritalanon and Chalermphol Akkarapinyokul. The brand was born out of their mutual love for visiting doughnut shops during their travels.

Expansion to Hong Kong

Arnold Lau, associate director-general of investment promotion at InvestHK, commented that Drop By Dough’s decision to choose Hong Kong as their first international location further cements the city’s status as a leading hub for global retailers. He also expressed InvestHK’s eagerness to support Drop By Dough’s development and success.

Product Offering

Drop By Dough takes pride in crafting their doughnuts every day using a blend of international and native ingredients. Their signature varieties include Raspberry Rose, Classic Vanilla, Nutella Hazelnut, and Kyoto Matcha & Red Bean.

Special flavors unique to the Hong Kong branch include Pistachioooooo – a doughnut filled with pistachio custard and topped with roasted pistachios – and Mango Kati, which features a distinctive Thai flavor profile.

Questions & Answers

Where is Drop By Dough’s first international outlet located?
The first international outlet of Drop By Dough is located in Central Hong Kong.

Who are the founders of Drop By Dough?
Drop By Dough was founded by Narongrit Sritalanon and Chalermphol Akkarapinyokul.

What unique flavors does the Hong Kong branch of Drop By Dough offer?
The Hong Kong branch of Drop By Dough offers exclusive flavors such as Pistachioooooo and Mango Kati.

November 10, 2025
Amazon’s Budget-Friendly Haul Takes on Asian Market: A Thrifty Revolution in E-commerce

Amazon disclosed its expansion plans for its cost-effective e-commerce service, Amazon Bazaar, on a recent Friday. Known in the United States as Haul, the service is now available in 14 new markets, intensifying competition with Chinese counterparts like Shein and PDD Holdings’ Temu in the worldwide race to sell budget-friendly products such as $10 dresses and $5 accessories.

Impact of Import Tariffs

The import tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump made a noticeable dent in consumer sentiment, more so among the lower-income groups, who are frequently on the lookout for economical deals.

Amazon Bazaar Versus Amazon Haul

Amazon Bazaar operates through a standalone app, offering merchandise akin to Amazon Haul. The latter is a budget-conscious shopping section within the primary Amazon app, which was launched in the prior year.

Having made its debut in Mexico last year, Amazon Bazaar is set to deliver the majority of its products, priced under $10 and some as low as $2, to its newest markets. These markets span a range of categories, from home goods to fashion, as per the e-commerce behemoth.

Amazon Bazaar’s New Markets

Amazon Bazaar’s low-cost e-commerce service has ventured into newer markets such as Hong Kong, the Philippines, Nigeria, and Taiwan. Following its launch in Mexico, the service expanded to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

DA Davidson & Co analyst Gil Luria highlighted the significance of Amazon Bazaar’s expansion, noting it as a crucial step in Amazon’s international growth strategy. According to Luria, Amazon only ventures into a market if it can scale up to a level that both delights consumers and builds a profitable business.

Luria further mentioned that the company often takes several years to achieve profitability when entering new countries and markets. Amazon recently reported its third-quarter international revenue at $40.9 billion, witnessing a 10% growth from the same period last year, excluding the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations.

Luria also posited that if Amazon can successfully build a business around selling a small selection of inexpensive items with appealing service levels, it could potentially extend its services beyond its core 23 markets to nearly every other country globally.

Global Fulfilment Centers and Service Partners

Amazon stated that products on Amazon Bazaar are shipped directly from the company’s global fulfillment centers to the designated destinations and delivered to customers via its network of service partners.

Expansion of Competitors

Shein and Temu, Amazon’s rivals in the space, have also accelerated their expansion outside the United States. While Shein operates in over 160 countries, including the U.S., Brazil, Ireland, and Southern China, Temu ships to at least 70 countries.

The Launch and Expansion of Amazon Haul

In 2024, Amazon launched Haul in the U.S., which has since expanded the in-app service to Britain, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Japan, and Australia.

Questions & Answers

What is Amazon Bazaar?
Amazon Bazaar is a low-cost e-commerce service by Amazon, known as Haul in the U.S., which sells a wide range of budget-friendly products.

Which new markets has Amazon Bazaar entered recently?
Amazon Bazaar has recently expanded its services to 14 new markets, including Hong Kong, the Philippines, Nigeria, and Taiwan.

How does Amazon Bazaar operate?
Amazon Bazaar operates through a standalone app and ships products to customers directly from Amazon’s global fulfillment centers via its network of service partners.

November 10, 2025
Indonesian Power Players Grab and GoTo Under Government Review for Potential Market-Shaking Merger

Possible discussions are currently underway in Indonesia regarding a potential merger or acquisition involving Grab, a ride-hailing and food delivery company, and its competitor GoTo, according to a statement made by the presidential spokesperson on Friday.

The Indonesian government sees the ride-hailing sector as a strategic factor in generating jobs and boosting the economy. Gojek, a subsidiary of GoTo, alone employs more than 3.1 million online riders. Both Grab and GoTo have long been major players in the Indonesian market.

If a merger or acquisition does take place, the resulting entity would command a staggering market share of over 91 per cent in Indonesia, based on information provided by data analytics firm Euromonitor International.

An official announcement regarding the possible merger or acquisition will be made shortly, according to Prasetyo Hadi, an Indonesian government spokesperson.

“Online riders are the heroes of our economy, propelling it forward,” Hadi declared.

There has been no immediate comment from Grab or GoTo in response to request for statements.

Previous reports suggested that Grab, which is listed on Nasdaq, was planning to negotiate a deal to acquire GoTo, a smaller rival, in the second quarter of this year and had engaged advisers to assist with the proposed acquisition. According to a source close to the matter, such a deal could value GoTo at approximately US$7 billion.

As per its 2024 annual report, GoTo is 73.90 per cent owned by foreign investors, including SoftBank Group and Taobao China Holding, a subsidiary of China’s Alibaba Group. The remaining stakes are held by Indonesian investors.

Questions & Answers

What is the potential impact of Grab and GoTo’s merger or acquisition on the Indonesian market?
If Grab and GoTo merge or if one acquires the other, the resulting entity would control over 91% of the Indonesian market, according to data from Euromonitor International.

Who are the main investors in GoTo?
Foreign investors, including SoftBank Group and Taobao China Holding, own 73.90% of GoTo. The remainder is owned by Indonesian investors.

What was GoTo’s potential value earlier this year?
Earlier this year, a source close to the matter mentioned that a potential deal could value GoTo at around US$7 billion.

November 10, 2025
Table Of Plenty Unveils Nostalgia-infused Miniature Rice Cakes: A Delicious, Nutritious Treat Available Nationwide

Table of Plenty, a cherished family food brand based in Australia, has recently unveiled its new product, miniature rice cakes, available in two different packaging options.

A Nostalgia-Infused Treat

Taking a trip down memory lane, the new product line melds together the sweet, comforting taste of milk chocolate and the vibrant visual appeal of rainbow sprinkles atop rice cakes. This innovative product promises to serve as a delightful treat for customers, harking back to the simpler times of childhood.

Two Packaging Sizes

These bite-sized rice cakes are being offered in two different packaging sizes to cater to varying customer needs. The smaller 102g box contains six pouches, while a larger 200g family pack is also available. These are being sold at Woolworths stores across the nation, priced at $7 and $10.50 respectively.

Nutritional Content

Table of Plenty has made sure that while these mini rice cakes bring joy to the taste buds, they also provide nutritional benefits. Each serving is said to contain whole grains and has a low-calorie count, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Additionally, these treats are gluten-free, lending them to a broader range of dietary preferences. They are also fructose-friendly and suitable for vegetarians, further enhancing their appeal to a wide variety of consumers.

Questions & Answers

What is the new product that Table of Plenty has introduced?
Table of Plenty has introduced mini rice cakes, which are milk chocolate-topped and sprinkled with rainbow sprinkles.

Where can these mini rice cakes be purchased and how much do they cost?
These mini rice cakes can be bought from Woolworths stores across Australia, with the 102g box priced at $7 and the 200g family pack priced at $10.50.

What are the dietary benefits of these mini rice cakes?
The mini rice cakes are made with whole grains and have a low-calorie count. They are also gluten-free, fructose-friendly, and suitable for vegetarians.

November 10, 2025
Malbon Swings into Vietnam: Exclusive Golf and Lifestyle Store Set to Open in Ho Chi Minh City

Malbon, a renowned lifestyle and golf brand, is expanding its footprint in Southeast Asia by establishing its first brick-and-mortar store in Vietnam. This strategic move is being executed in collaboration with TKG Lifestyle, a subsidiary of The Kho Group.

Store Opening and Offerings

The inaugural store is slated for launch next month on Dong Khoi Street, in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Spanning two floors and covering a total area of 250 square meters, the store will house the full range of Malbon’s golf attire and accessories. In addition, it will also feature the brand’s lifestyle and sportswear collections.

Vynce Nguyen, General Manager of The Kho Group Vietnam, expressed optimism about the venture, citing Vietnam’s growing golf market and Malbon’s unique lifestyle-focused approach as key growth drivers. He expressed confidence that Vietnamese customers will appreciate the brand’s distinctive style and its history of innovative partnerships with global brands and entertainment personalities.

Tailored for the Local Market

Malbon has plans to offer limited-edition products specifically designed for the Vietnamese market. This is in addition to its regular offerings, which include seasonal releases, performance apparel, and the core Icons line.

The brand’s expansion strategy is not limited to physical retail outlets. Plans are afoot to develop a robust e-commerce platform and organize exclusive community-focused Buckets Club events where exclusive product launches will take place for members.

Nguyen further elaborated on Malbon’s Vietnam engagement strategy, revealing plans for pop-up stores in premium locations and vibrant hotspots around the country, where culture, creativity, and lifestyle converge.

Future Expansion

Over the next one to two years, Malbon and The Kho Group plan to extend their retail footprint with additional stores in major Vietnamese cities, including Hanoi, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc.

This move comes on the heels of Malbon’s recent expansion activities, including the opening of its world’s largest flagship store in the Philippines this April, and the inauguration of its new headquarters in Shenzhen, China.

Meanwhile, The Kho Group, known for introducing the Japanese coffee chain % Arabica to Vietnam, is now gearing up to launch the brand in Australia.

Questions & Answers

What is Malbon’s expansion strategy in Vietnam?
Malbon plans to develop a strong presence in Vietnam through a combination of physical retail stores, an e-commerce platform, and community-focused events.

What does the new Malbon store in Vietnam offer?
The store will feature Malbon’s full range of golf apparel and accessories, as well as its lifestyle and sportswear collections. Limited-edition products tailored for local consumers will also be introduced.

What are the future plans of Malbon and The Kho Group in Vietnam?
They plan to open additional stores in key cities such as Hanoi, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc over the next 12 to 24 months.

November 10, 2025
Unlock Personalized Deals and Tailored Ads with Google Wallet’s Latest Update: Here’s How

Google has been improving its Google Wallet app, making it a convenient hub for Android users to digitally store items such as credit and debit cards, passports, tickets, and transit passes. Despite these features, Google Wallet may not be as frequently used as other Google apps, such as YouTube, Messages, Keep, Drive, Email, Chrome, and the Google app.

Upcoming Changes to Google Wallet

However, Google Wallet should not be disregarded. Reports suggest that Google has been undergoing modifications to enhance the app’s utility. Insights from a recent teardown of the Wallet app indicate that Google is developing the Google Transit Card. This feature will enable users to pay for public transportation using a specific card without the necessity to unlock their phone, an addition that will undoubtedly be beneficial and time-saving for daily commuters.

Additionally, the Wallet app is set to offer unique deals based on the loyalty cards stored within the app, provided certain settings are enabled.

Data Management and Privacy Settings

A forthcoming update to the Google Wallet app will allow U.S. users to manage their data and privacy settings. These settings can be utilised to create personalised experiences across Google. With your Google Wallet payment information and activity enabled for personalising content and experiences across Google, you will be able to view recommendations or deals based on the loyalty cards in your wallet.

Google can utilise your purchasing information and details about the loyalty cards in your wallet to provide special deals and personalised ads that may be of interest to you. If you are uncomfortable sharing information about your wallet’s loyalty cards and purchases with Google, these settings can be disabled.

Enabling Personalisation Settings

To enable this setting in the app, open the Google Wallet app and tap on the profile icon in the upper right corner. Navigate to Your data in Wallet > Manage data from Wallet and payments services, then toggle on or off the setting Use Wallet to personalise experiences across Google.

If you’re using a desktop computer, go to wallet.google.com, select Settings from the left sidebar, then under “Data & Privacy,” toggle on or off Use Wallet to personalise experiences across Google.

Wallet History for Personalised Ads

The Wallet History feature uses information from Google Wallet and payment services to help Google serve you more customised and useful ads. This setting can be turned on within the app by navigating to Your data in Wallet > Manage data from Wallet and payments services > Use Wallet to personalise Google Ads. Users can toggle this setting on or off at My Ad Center.

This setting can also be activated via desktop by going to wallet.google.com, selecting Settings on the left, then under “Data & Privacy,” toggling on or off Use Wallet to personalise Google Ads. Users will be directed to My Ad Center to complete the process.

When both settings are enabled, Google will utilise the data from your purchases, loyalty cards, event tickets, and boarding passes to offer more personalised services. These can manifest as personalised ads, promotions, and recommendations.

Rolling out the Update

Google has stated that the update to Google Wallet will be gradually rolled out. Users who do not yet see these settings in the Google Wallet app should expect to receive them in due course. When the settings become available in your Google Wallet app, you will receive a notification from Google.

Questions & Answers

What updates are being made to the Google Wallet app?
In addition to the existing features, Google is reportedly developing a Google Transit Card to simplify payments for public transportation, and is also enhancing data and privacy settings to offer personalised experiences based on stored loyalty cards.

What is the Google Transit Card?
The Google Transit Card is a new feature being developed for the Google Wallet app. It will allow users to pay for public transportation using a specific card, without having to unlock their phone.

How can I personalise my experience on Google Wallet?
With the upcoming update, users can manage their data and privacy settings, which will then be used to offer personalised deals and recommendations based on the loyalty cards stored in your wallet. You can also enable Wallet History to receive more customised ads.

November 10, 2025
Stay on Top of Your Chats: Google Messages Doubles its Pinned Conversations Limit

A recent update to Google Messages now allows users to pin up to 20 conversations, twice the previous limit of 10. This change enables users to maintain handy access to more of their important chats, keeping them in view even as new messages come in.

More Conversations at Your Fingertips

Originally, Google Messages allowed users to pin just three conversations at the top of the messaging interface. This limit was subsequently increased to five, then ten, and it now stands at 20. While it may seem like a marginal update, it certainly comes as good news for those users who need to keep an eye on multiple critical conversations.

The process to pin a conversation is straightforward. Users simply need to open the Messages app, press and hold on the relevant chat, and select the “Pin” option. The pinned chat will remain at the top of the conversation list, regardless of incoming messages.

A Modest, yet Significant Upgrade

Despite having billions of users worldwide, Google Messages continues to undergo incremental improvements. While the latest update may not seem substantial, it might prove to be quite beneficial for users dealing with a high volume of chats.

However, pinning 20 conversations might start to make the list seem lengthy. The possibility arises that newer messages could be pushed farther down the list, potentially causing users to overlook important communications. This could somewhat undermine the very purpose of pinning conversations.

Continuous Evolution of Google Messages

Google has been introducing frequent updates to its Messages app. While each feature in isolation may not seem significant, their collective impact is giving the app a more feature-filled feel.

Recent updates include the introduction of user profiles, screen effects, custom bubbles, reaction effects, and Gemini AI integration. Now, with the additional pinned chats, Google Messages seems to be drifting away from its original minimalist design. Although not all users might need or appreciate this increasing complexity, it’s clear that Google is committed to continuously enhancing the app’s functionality.

Questions & Answers

What is the new update to Google Messages?
The latest update to Google Messages allows users to pin up to 20 conversations, a significant increase from the previous limit of 10.

How can users pin a conversation in Google Messages?
To pin a conversation, users need to open the Messages app, press and hold on the desired chat, and select the “Pin” option. The chosen chat will then stay at the top of the conversation list, regardless of incoming messages.

What other features has Google added to Messages recently?
Google has introduced several new features to Messages recently, including user profiles, screen effects, custom bubbles, reaction effects, and Gemini AI integration.

November 10, 2025