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SoftBank Innovates AI Infrastructure with Launch of Infrinia Cloud OS: A Game-Changer for GPU Cloud Services

SoftBank Corp., under the leadership of President and CEO Junichi Miyakawa, has unveiled a significant development from its Infrinia Team. This team, specializing in the creation of next-generation AI infrastructure architectures and systems, has designed the Infrinia AI Cloud OS. This is a robust software stack custom-built for AI data centers.

Capabilities and Advantages of Infrinia AI Cloud OS

The rollout of Infrinia AI Cloud OS provides AI data center operators with the ability to present kubernetes-as-a-service (KaaS) in multi-tenant environments. It also facilitates inference-as-a-service (Inf-aaS), which offers large language model inference via APIs. These features can be incorporated into operators’ individual GPU cloud services. Compared to custom-made or internally developed options, the software stack is anticipated to decrease total cost of ownership (TCO) and simplify operational intricacies. This facilitates a quicker deployment of GPU cloud services by providers while supporting the entire AI lifecycle, ranging from model training to inference, both flexibly and efficiently.

SoftBank’s initial strategy is to incorporate Infrinia AI Cloud OS into its own GPU cloud offerings. In the future, the Infrinia Team plans to extend the deployment to overseas data centers and cloud platforms with the aim of achieving global acceptance.

Meeting the Growing Demand

The request for GPU-accelerated AI computing is escalating swiftly across various sectors including generative AI, autonomous robotics, simulation, drug discovery, and materials science. As a result, user prerequisites for AI computing have become diverse and complex. These encompass access to fully managed infrastructure with abstracted GPU bare-metal servers, cost-effective inference services which eradicate the need for direct GPU management, and sophisticated operational models where AI training is centralized and inference is deployed at the edge.

Addressing these diverse needs places significant demands on GPU cloud service providers. Building and operating such environments call for in-depth technical know-how and involve complicated operational procedures. To surmount these hurdles, the Infrinia Team invented Infrinia AI Cloud OS. This solution maximizes GPU performance while easing the deployment and management of advanced GPU cloud services.

Technical Aspects of the Software Stack

The software stack’s KaaS capabilities automate the entire infrastructure stratum—from BIOS and RAID configurations to operating systems, GPU drivers, networking, Kubernetes controllers, and storage—on advanced GPU platforms such as NVIDIA GB200 NVL72. Additionally, it supports software-defined, on-demand reconfiguration of physical connectivity and memory, which allows clusters to be created, modified, or removed based on specific AI workload requirements. Automatic node allocation based on GPU proximity and NVIDIA NVLink domains further diminishes latency and enhances GPU-to-GPU bandwidth for large-scale, distributed workloads.

The Inf-aaS component is crafted to empower users to deploy inference workloads with ease, providing scalable and efficient access to AI model inference via managed services.

CEO Junichi Miyakawa emphasized SoftBank’s commitment to pioneering the AI era. The company aims to provide essential capabilities required for the large-scale deployment of AI in society through a new GPU cloud service and software business. The Infrinia AI Cloud OS software forms the core of this initiative, designed to seamlessly connect AI data centers, enterprises, service providers, and developers.

Questions & Answers

What is Infrinia AI Cloud OS?
Infrinia AI Cloud OS is a robust software stack custom-built for AI data centers developed by SoftBank’s Infrinia Team.

What features does Infrinia AI Cloud OS offer?
It provides kubernetes-as-a-service (KaaS) and inference-as-a-service (Inf-aaS) capabilities. It can also be integrated into operators’ individual GPU cloud services.

What are the benefits of Infrinia AI Cloud OS?
Infrinia AI Cloud OS decreases total cost of ownership (TCO) and simplifies operational complexities. This facilitates quicker deployment of GPU cloud services by providers while supporting the entire AI lifecycle flexibly and efficiently.

January 23, 2026
Fuel Price Revolution: Vietnam Gasoline Plummets Amid Global Market Fluctuations

In Vietnam, gasoline prices experienced a reduction on Thursday afternoon, echoing the recent drop in global rates. The widely used fuel, RON95, underwent a decrease of 0.43%, bringing its cost down to VND18,630 (US$0.71) per liter.

In a similar trend, the biofuel E5 RON92 also saw a price reduction, decreasing by 0.49% to a new price of VND18,280 per liter. Diesel, on the other hand, experienced a price hike with an increase of 2.43% which resulted in a new price of VND17,700 per liter.

The change in fuel prices is reflective of the recent fluctuations in the global oil market. This volatility has been brought on by several different factors. These include the possibility of disruptions to oil supplies from Iran and ongoing tensions between the United States and Europe over issues pertaining to Greenland as reported by Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade.

In terms of specific fuel types, RON95 saw a decrease of 0.6% to a new price of $72.4 per barrel globally, while the cost of diesel increased by 2.9% taking it to a price of $83.4 per barrel.

Questions & Answers

What was the new price of the RON95 fuel in Vietnam?
The new price of RON95 fuel in Vietnam was VND18,630 per liter, which translates to US$0.71 per liter.

How did the price of diesel change?
The price of diesel experienced a hike of 2.43%, which resulted in a new price of VND17,700 per liter.

What factors have been affecting the global oil market recently?
The global oil market has been affected by various factors including possible disruptions to oil supplies from Iran and ongoing tensions between the United States and Europe over Greenland-related issues.

January 23, 2026
Hapas Eyes $15M Boost to Amplify Omnichannel Presence and Southeast Asia Expansion

Hapas, a fashion accessories retailer based in Vietnam, is reportedly setting its sights on raising a minimum of $15 million in a forthcoming funding round. The objective of this fundraising effort is to bolster its omnichannel footprint and facilitate expansion across the Southeast Asia region.

The Role of Index Partners

Reports suggest that Index Partners is taking on the role of sell-side advisor for the transaction. This role typically involves providing guidance on the selling strategy, facilitating negotiations, and working to ensure a favorable outcome for Hapas.

An Impact-Linked Investment

In 2022, Hapas received an impact-linked investment from Beacon Fund, which is the SME lending branch of Patamar Capital. This investment was reportedly influenced by the fact that 80% of Hapas’ management personnel are women entrepreneurs. Beacon Fund, however, has since withdrawn its investment.

Specialization and Expansion Strategy

Hapas was originally established as a provider of affordable luxury products, specializing in bags and accessories. Presently, Hapas manages 16 brick-and-mortar stores in Vietnam, and places emphasis on e-commerce platforms such as the TikTok Shop and Shopee.

Furthermore, the company is making conscious efforts to fortify its direct-to-consumer channels to help diminish its dependence on third-party marketplaces. As part of this initiative, Hapas has commenced online sales in Thailand and is formulating plans to extend its physical retail presence to other regional markets. These include Thailand and Indonesia, and the expansion is slated to occur within the next few years.

Questions & Answers

What is Hapas planning to do with the new funding?
Hapas aims to use the funds raised to enhance its omnichannel presence and to facilitate its expansion across the Southeast Asian region.

Who is acting as a sell-side advisor for the transaction?
Index Partners is reported to be serving as the sell-side advisor for this transaction.

What is Hapas’ expansion strategy?
Hapas has recently begun selling online in Thailand and aims to expand its physical retail presence to regional markets like Thailand and Indonesia in the next few years.

January 22, 2026
L’Oréal Pledges $383M for Indian Beauty Tech Hub: A Leap into AI-Driven Innovation and Job Creation

L’Oréal, the French cosmetics powerhouse, announced on Wednesday plans to establish a beauty technology hub in Hyderabad, a major city in southern India, supported by an initial investment surpassing 35 billion rupees (approximately US$383.4 million).

The planned tech hub is anticipated to serve as a global hotbed for AI‑driven beauty innovation. L’Oréal aims to generate 2000 tech employment opportunities by 2030 and expedite the deployment of advanced AI beauty solutions, according to a company statement.

The agreement detailing this new venture was officially established at the World Economic Forum in Davos by Nicolas Hieronimus, L’Oréal’s CEO, and the state government of Telangana.

Over recent years, Telangana has swiftly risen to prominence as a crucial investment and technological epicenter in southern India.

Trade relations between India and France have been steadily strengthening, with bilateral trade reaching $15 billion in 2024. This warming relationship is further evidenced by ongoing discussions between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron.

In addition, both nations have been cooperating since 2024 to revamp their tax treaty. The aim is to modernize the agreement by integrating global standards concerning tax transparency.

Questions & Answers

What is the purpose of L’Oréal’s planned tech hub in Hyderabad?
The tech hub is intended to be a global platform for AI-driven beauty innovation. It is also expected to create 2000 tech jobs by 2030 and facilitate the introduction of advanced AI beauty solutions.

Who formalized the agreement for this new project?
The agreement was formalized by Nicolas Hieronimus, L’Oréal’s CEO, and the state government of Telangana at the World Economic Forum in Davos.

What major economic changes are being pursued by India and France?
India and France have been collaborating since 2024 to update their tax treaty. This revision aims to modernize the contract by incorporating global standards on tax transparency.

January 22, 2026
Burberry Sees Remarkable Christmas Sales Boost, Thanks to Chinese Market Surge

Burberry, the iconic British luxury brand, surpassed its holiday season sales forecasts, with the most significant surge being noted in its Chinese market.

4th Quarter Financial Overview

According to the latest fiscal report of the quarter ending December 27, Burberry witnessed a 3% annual increase in comparable store sales, leading to a revenue of £665 million. Of particular note was the growth in Greater China, which saw a 6% rise in store sales. The Asia Pacific (APAC) region also reported a sales increment of 5%. Unfortunately, no sales growth was observed in Europe and the Middle East during this period.

Joshua Schulman, the CEO of Burberry, attributed these promising figures to the brand’s successful implementation of their Burberry Forward strategy. He cited an improved sales growth rate and enhanced revenue quality across different retail channels and geographical locations.

Key to Success

Burberry’s win in Greater China and APAC was primarily fuelled by a considerable uptick in Gen Z customers, who contributed to double-digit growth.

Schulman commented on the positive customer response to Burberry’s immersive Timeless British Luxury campaigns and experiences. The brand’s core outerwear category continued to demonstrate resilience, with rising customer interests now also observed in accessories and ready-to-wear collections.

“As we step into the 170th year of Burberry, these results substantiate the enduring strength of our iconic brand and instill confidence in the journey ahead,” Schulman added.

Questions & Answers

What was Burberry’s sales performance during the recent Christmas quarter?
Burberry experienced a 3% year-on-year increase in comparable store sales during the Christmas quarter, achieving a revenue of £665 million.

Which markets showed the strongest growth for Burberry?
Greater China and the Asia Pacific (APAC) region were the strongest growth markets for Burberry, with sales rising by 6% and 5% respectively.

What factors attributed to Burberry’s strong sales performance?
The successful implementation of the Burberry Forward strategy, compelling Timeless British Luxury campaigns and experiences, and the consistent popularity of their core outerwear category are some factors that contributed to Burberry’s strong sales performance.

January 22, 2026
Amouage Makes a Fragrant Debut in Seoul with Exotic Pop-Up Store Ahead of Permanent Expansio

Amouage, a luxury fragrance house, has made its inaugural entry into the South Korean market with the establishment of its first pop-up boutique in Seoul. This marks a major step in the company’s broader growth strategy across Asia.

Strategically Located Temporary Boutique

The temporary boutique is conveniently situated in Apgujeong, in proximity to Dosan Park. This pop-up store is a precursor to a permanent flagship store, which is slated to open in the same location in the near future.

The primary objective of the pop-up boutique is to build Amouage’s brand recognition and gauge consumer response prior to making a long-term commitment to a retail presence in the region.

Inspiration and Design

The design of the boutique draws inspiration from Oman, the birthplace of Amouage. Architectural elements echo the country’s mountainous landscapes and traditional falaj water systems. The interior design incorporates stone textures, geometric details, and a warm colour palette to create a refined, minimalist space with subtle nods to Omani culture.

Services and Collection

In addition to its fragrance collection, the boutique provides a variety of personalised services such as engraving and gift wrapping. The store layout promotes exploration and discovery, offering a shopping experience that deviates from the traditional, high-density retail format.

Amouage initially made its presence felt in South Korea through a personalised space at Hyundai Duty Free. The recent launch in Seoul is in line with the brand’s ongoing expansion efforts in the Asia-Pacific region. In 2024, Amouage collaborated with Luxasia to penetrate markets in Australia, India, Indonesia, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

Questions & Answers

What is the main purpose of Amouage’s pop-up boutique in Seoul?
The main purpose of the pop-up boutique is to build Amouage’s brand recognition and gauge consumer response in South Korea prior to making a long-term commitment to a retail presence in the region.

What unique characteristics define the design of the boutique?
The boutique’s design draws inspiration from Oman, the birthplace of Amouage, with architectural elements reflecting the country’s mountain landscapes and traditional falaj water systems. The interior design integrates stone textures, geometric details and a warm colour palette to create a refined, minimalist space with subtle references to Omani culture.

What services are offered by the boutique apart from its fragrance collection?
In addition to its fragrance collection, the boutique provides personalised services such as engraving and gift wrapping. The layout of the store encourages exploration and discovery, deviating from the traditional high-density retail experience.

January 22, 2026
Cathy Sparks Ascends to Nike’s VP and GM Role in Greater China: A New Era of Athletic Partnerships

Nike has recently made several key changes to its top-tier executives across various geographical territories. Cathy Spark has been promoted to the position of Vice President (VP) and General Manager (GM) of Greater China.

Replacing Angela Dong, a seasoned Nike executive since 2005 who served in a variety of senior-level positions throughout the region, Spark plans to solidify collaborations and reaffirm Nike’s long-standing dominance in the Chinese market.

Spark’s journey with Nike spans a quarter-century, initially starting as a store athlete at Niketown in Portland. Over the years, she assumed leadership roles across all geographical areas. Prior to her current position, she served as VP and GM of APLA, where she spearheaded the company’s strategy for marketplace transformation and consumer growth.

Elliot Hill, Nike’s President and CEO, praised Spark for her ability to connect athletics, consumers, and Nike’s role at the crossroads between sports and culture. He highlighted her ability to build high-performing teams, act decisively, and effectively harness the unique appeal of the Nike brand.

Cristin “Crissy” Campbell, a Nike employee with 15 years of experience, is slated to fill Spark’s former position as VP and GM of APLA.

In the EMEA region, Carl Grebert will relinquish his duties as VP and GM. César Garcia will take over the role, with his tenure starting on February 2nd.

Questions & Answers

Who is the new VP and GM of Greater China for Nike?
Cathy Spark has been appointed as the new Vice President and General Manager of Greater China for Nike.

What role did Cathy Spark previously hold at Nike?
Before her promotion, Cathy Spark was the Vice President and General Manager of APLA, leading the company’s strategy in marketplace transformation and consumer growth.

Who will succeed Cathy Spark as VP and GM of APLA?
Cristin “Crissy” Campbell, a 15-year veteran at Nike, will take over as the Vice President and General Manager of APLA.

January 22, 2026
India Ascends to Second Spot Globally with Over 400 Million 5G Users: A Story of Rapid Digital Transformation

India has solidified its position as the world’s second-largest 5G subscriber market, just after China. This achievement highlights the nation’s speedy embrace of next-generation connectivity and one of the fastest global network rollouts, as stated by the Union Minister of Communications, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia.

Impressive Numbers in 5G Adoption

Currently, India boasts of more than 400 million 5G users, making it home to the world’s second-largest 5G subscriber population. Data presented by the Ministry of Communications indicates that telecom service providers have installed approximately 4.69 lakh 5G base transceiver stations nationwide as of March 2025. This reflects the swift pace of 5G deployment in India, which started in October 2022 and is among the fastest rollouts globally.

Today, 5G services encompass over 99% of India’s districts, with an estimated population coverage of around 85%. Since the initial launch, 25 crore users have migrated to 5G services, and the total subscriber base has surged past 400 million as network accessibility and device adoption have grown.

Notable Strides in Rural Connectivity

The Ministry also pointed out significant improvements in rural connectivity. There has been a 42.9% increase in rural telephone connections, almost twice the rate of urban growth. The number of connections has risen from 377.78 million in March 2014 to 539.83 million by September 2025.

Digital Expansion and Internet Usage

The digital expansion in India is further mirrored in internet usage. Total internet connections have crossed the one billion mark, reaching 1.0029 billion, compared to 251.5 million in March 2014. This represents a growth of nearly 299%.

Progress in Telecom Self-Reliance

In line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, India has made substantial progress in telecom self-reliance. It has joined the select group of nations that have developed an end-to-end 4G stack which is upgradable to 5G. While it took other countries decades to mature similar technologies, India achieved this milestone in just two years. Additionally, there is growing momentum in indigenous 6G research and development under the ambitious Bharat 6G Mission.

Collectively, these developments firmly establish India as a primary global player in 5G adoption and digital infrastructure. This has implications for enterprise connectivity, innovation, and long-term economic growth across the region.

Questions & Answers

What is India’s current rank in the global 5G subscriber market?
India has emerged as the second-largest 5G subscriber market in the world.

How many 5G users does India currently have?
India currently has over 400 million 5G users.

What has been the growth in rural telephone connections in India?
Rural telephone connections in India have grown by 42.9%, nearly double the urban growth rate.

January 22, 2026
E-commerce Boom in Australia Fuels Demand for Compliant Warehouse Racking Systems: Vinatech Rises to the Challenge

Australia’s logistics and warehousing sector is experiencing robust growth, increasing the demand for storage systems that adhere to rigorous technical and safety standards. This has led suppliers to modify their products to align with the country’s stringent regulatory requirements.

Booming Australian Warehousing Market

The warehousing and logistics market in Australia is a foundational aspect of the national supply chain, currently estimated to be worth around AUD15 billion (US$10.1 billion). The rapid proliferation of e-commerce has been fueling this sector, with predictions suggesting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 6-7% over the next five to ten years.

Entry of Vinatech Australia into the Market

In response to this burgeoning market, Vinatech Australia has entered the scene not simply as a traditional supplier, but as a strategic partner providing comprehensive warehouse racking solutions. The company specializes in supplying industrial warehouse racking and storage solutions fine-tuned for the Australian market, aiming to provide top-quality warehousing systems that align with international standards while catering to the unique operational needs of each client.

Vinatech Australia is supported by the Vinatech Group, a prominent Vietnamese manufacturer of industrial warehouse racking systems. Benefiting from extensive industry experience and state-of-the-art production infrastructure, the Vinatech Group has provided warehouse and storage solutions to numerous national and international clients, spanning logistics warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and large-scale distribution centers.

The operational model of the company allows customers to maximize project budgets without sacrificing product quality, ensuring alignment with AS4084 standards and compliance with relevant Australian rules. Vinatech also offers full certification and technical documentation upon request, facilitated by engineering teams knowledgeable in both Vietnamese manufacturing standards and Australian compliance requirements. This capability underpins the company’s prevailing message: “Made in Vietnam – Used in Australia.”

Comprehensive Industrial Solutions

Vinatech Australia also provides a comprehensive range of industrial solutions, including consultancy and warehouse system design from the initial site survey stage, customized industrial warehouse and pallet racking solutions to meet specific operational needs, full project management from conception to operational deployment, and the capacity to deliver large volumes with consistent and reliable timelines.

The company affirms its commitment to quality assurance and standards compliance as a vital element of its operations, addressing concerns regarding whether products sourced from Asia can meet the demanding standards of developed markets.

All Vinatech products are designed and manufactured in compliance with international technical and safety standards. This ensures every industrial warehouse and pallet racking system fulfills strict criteria on load capacity, structural stability, workplace safety, and Australian fire protection regulations.

Full Support from Planning to Operation

Vinatech Australia positions itself not just as a product supplier but as a comprehensive solutions partner, aiding customers from the early planning stages through to real-world operation. This includes advising clients on long-term development strategies and integrating their warehouse racking systems seamlessly with advanced automation technologies.

This strategy facilitates a phased approach to warehouse automation, allowing customers to commence with a fundamental solution such as pallet racking and progressively upgrade without the need to replace their entire warehouse racking infrastructure.

Vinatech’s goal is not to become the largest supplier, but to be the most trusted provider of industrial warehouse racking solutions in Australia. They aspire to be the first name businesses consider when planning or upgrading their warehouse operations, not just due to competitive pricing but also their professionalism, reliability, and commitment to long-term partnerships.

Questions & Answers

What is Vinatech Australia’s specialization?
Vinatech Australia specializes in providing industrial warehouse racking and storage solutions tailored for the Australian market.

How does Vinatech assure adherence to technical and safety standards?
Vinatech designs and manufactures all products in accordance with international technical and safety standards. They also provide complete certification and technical documentation upon request.

What differentiates Vinatech Australia’s approach to customer support?
Vinatech Australia positions itself not only as a product supplier but as a comprehensive solutions partner, supporting customers from early planning through to real-world operation.

January 22, 2026
Maybank Unveils Ambitious ‘ROAR30’ Five-Year Strategy, Aims for 14% ROE

Maybank, a Malaysian-based banking corporation, has recently unveiled its ambitious five-year strategy plan, dubbed “ROAR30”. The roadmap, which extends until 2030, outlines significant financial targets, including a return on equity (ROE) aim of 13-14 percent, a net interest margin that exceeds 2.05 percent, a cost-to-income ratio of 47 percent or lower, and a CASA (current account and savings account) ratio above 41 percent.

Dato’ Sri Khairussaleh Ramli, Maybank’s President and Group CEO, emphasized the importance of the bank’s core markets – Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore – as primary growth and profitability contributors. He commented, “Our regional network strategy will enable us to support our clients across various markets. We are committed to shaping a mobile workforce, fostering a transformative mindset and culture, encouraging continuous learning, implementing technology modernisation and optimising productivity and financial performance.”

Three Strategic Pillars

Maybank’s newly announced strategy rests on three strategic pillars.

The first pillar involves redefining its services to provide exceptional customer experiences, positively impact society, and stimulate the real economy.

The second pillar focuses on the expansion of four key business areas: global Islamic finance, regional wealth management, regional transactions and payments banking, and regional corporate and investment banking.

The third and final pillar is the creation of a sustainable bank via three core strategies: nurturing an enviable workforce and organisational culture, harnessing the power of technology and artificial intelligence, and optimizing productivity and capital allocation to enhance performance.

Khairussaleh concluded, “Through ROAR30, Maybank aims to generate meaningful impact and ensure sustainable value creation for all stakeholders, spanning our customers, communities, and the economies we serve.”

Questions & Answers

What is Maybank’s new strategic plan named?
The new strategic plan is named “ROAR30”.

What are the three strategic pillars outlined in the “ROAR30” plan?
The three pillars are redefining services to provide exceptional customer experiences, expanding four key business areas, and creating a sustainable bank through staff development, technology use, and productivity optimization.

What are some of the financial goals set by Maybank in the “ROAR30” plan?
Some of the key financial targets include a return on equity aim of 13-14 percent, a net interest margin that exceeds 2.05 percent, a cost-to-income ratio of 47 percent or lower, and a CASA (current account and savings account) ratio above 41 percent.

January 22, 2026
OCBC Pioneers New Securities Financing Division to Optimize Lending Solutions

Singapore’s OCBC Bank has established a new division that is committed to providing loans against idle securities in customer accounts.

Enabling Efficient Use of Idle Securities

OCBC Bank has introduced a dedicated securities financing unit that will operate within the global markets division. This unit’s main function will be to activate lendable securities like equities and fixed income, which are held by customers of OCBC Bank and its affiliate businesses OCBC Securities, Bank of Singapore, and Great Eastern.

The financing unit will be under the leadership of Jansen Chua, the newly appointed head of securities finance. Chua, who officially joined the bank on January 2, will directly report to Kenneth Lai, the head of global markets.

Chua brings to the table 25 years of international experience spanning across the United States, Europe, Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. His most recent role was at State Street Bank & Trust Company, where he was the senior managing director and head of financing solutions for the Asia Pacific region. He has led teams in trading, sales, customer management, and product development.

The Increasing Demand for Securities Financing

Globally, there has been a noticeable increase in the demand for securities financing. More and more buy-side firms are looking for ways to optimize liquidity, fulfill collateral requirements, and put in place hedging strategies in fluctuating markets.

In 2025, global securities lending revenues hit an all-time high of $15.3 billion, according to EquiLend Data & Analytics.

Accessing liquidity and effectively deploying capital has become crucial, especially given the current high market volatility. As a result, securities financing has become increasingly important, and there has been a correspondingly significant rise in demand from institutional customers, according to Lai.

With Chua’s leadership, the bank is well-positioned to assist its customers as they implement trading and hedging strategies, meet settlement obligations, and optimize capital usage.

Questions & Answers

What is the purpose of the new securities financing unit?

The new unit has been established to mobilize lendable securities such as equities and fixed income held by customers, allowing for lending against these idle securities.

Who will lead the new securities financing unit?

The unit will be under the leadership of Jansen Chua, the head of securities finance at OCBC.

What factors have contributed to the increased demand for securities financing?

The growing demand is largely due to buy-side firms seeking to optimize liquidity, meet collateral obligations, and implement effective hedging strategies amidst volatile market conditions.

January 22, 2026
KK Group Debuts First KKV Flagship Store in Vietnam, Amplifying Its Southeast Asia Presence

KK Group, a key player in retail, has unveiled its first independent KKV flagship store in Vietnam, signifying the company’s second international flagship venue as it continues its expansion in Southeast Asia.

Store Location and Features

The new outlet is strategically situated at 28 Le Loi Street in the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh. This high-end retail location is directly across from Saigon Centre, a prominent shopping hub.

Breaking away from traditional retail designs, the multi-story store integrates unique themed displays, such as the ‘Colorful KKV Moto Park’. This motorcycle-inspired installation is placed at the entrance, utilizing what was previously a parking space.

The store boasts an extensive selection of lifestyle goods, including toys, beauty products, food, and household items. Approximately 5,000 additional products will be gradually unveiled, just in time for the Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday season.

Future Expansion Plans

Rojen Wu, Chief Operating Officer of KK Group’s international business, expressed the company’s commitment to further global expansion. He stated, “We will continue to open global flagship stores in various countries, offering local consumers an enriched and inspirational shopping experience.”

Vietnam is a crucial market for KK Group in Southeast Asia. The company presently manages around 20 stores across its three brands—KKV, The Colourist, and X11—in Vietnam, with a goal of reaching 50 outlets within the year.

Founded in China, KK Group runs over 1,000 stores in more than 200 cities within its home market and more than 150 in Southeast Asia. For this year, the group aims to increase that number to over 300 stores across the region.

Questions & Answers

Where is the first standalone KKV flagship store in Vietnam located?
The store is located at 28 Le Loi Street in Ho Chi Minh City, across from the Saigon Centre.

What unique feature does the new KKV store in Vietnam possess?
The store is designed with themed installations such as the ‘Colorful KKV Moto Park’, a motorcycle-themed structure at the entrance.

What are KK Group’s expansion plans in Southeast Asia?
KK Group plans to continue opening more flagship stores in various countries across Southeast Asia, with a target of over 300 stores across the region for this year.

January 21, 2026
CJ Olive Young & Sephora Join Forces to Propel K-Beauty Brands Globally: A Strategic Expansion in Key Markets

CJ Olive Young, a leading beauty retailer in South Korea, has embarked on a significant global partnership with Sephora, an entity of LVMH, to broaden the international presence of Korean beauty brands. Their strategy primarily revolves around leveraging existing retail networks.

The Launch of K-beauty Zones

As part of the partnership agreement, Olive Young will curate dedicated Korean beauty (K-beauty) sections on Sephora’s online platforms and within select physical outlets. These areas are set to be launched in the latter half of the current year.

Initial Rollouts and Future Expansion

The initial phase of the rollout is anticipated in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Hong Kong, the United States, and Canada. This will then be followed by an expansion into additional markets in the subsequent year, including the United Kingdom, Australia, and the Middle East.

Strategic Collaboration

Youngah Lee, Chief Strategy Officer at CJ Olive Young, highlighted the global fascination with K-beauty as a driving force behind the partnership. Lee emphasized that this collaboration is a significant step towards enhancing the international presence of Korean beauty brands in key global markets.

Olive Young’s Global Aspirations

This partnership aligns with Olive Young’s larger international ambitions. The company also recently announced its intention to open its first standalone store in Los Angeles, United States, later this year as part of its expansion strategy.

Questions & Answers

What is the goal of the partnership between CJ Olive Young and Sephora?
The partnership aims to expand the international presence of Korean beauty brands by leveraging Sephora’s established retail networks.

When and where will the initial rollouts of the K-beauty zones take place?
The initial rollout of the K-beauty zones on Sephora’s online platforms and selected physical stores is planned for the second half of this year in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Hong Kong, the US, and Canada.

What are Olive Young’s broader international plans?
Apart from the partnership with Sephora, Olive Young has also announced plans to open its first standalone store in Los Angeles, USA, sometime this year.

January 21, 2026
Ikea Eyes Massive Expansion in India: Aims for over $2.2 Billion Investment and Online Presence Boost

Swedish furniture behemoth Ikea is set to intensify its commitment to India, with plans to double its current investment to over 200 billion rupees, or approximately US$2.2 billion, within the next five years.

Expanding Physical and Online Footprint

In order to make the most of this investment, Ikea has aspirations to significantly increase its in-person retail locations, from six to 30 stores. Additionally, the company has plans to boost its annual sales in India, aiming to quadruple the current figure, which stood at $204 million as of August in the previous year.

As an integral part of its expansion strategy, Ikea will prioritize the establishment of an online presence before it launches new brick-and-mortar stores in untapped cities. The firm is also striving to increase the proportion of online sales from the existing 30% of total sales to 40%.

The company is set to begin accepting online orders in four cities where it currently does not have a physical presence, including Chennai and Coimbatore in the state of Tamil Nadu.

Previous Successes and Future Plans

Ikea’s inaugural Indian store was launched in 2018 in the city of Hyderabad. Since then, the company has opened three outlets in Navi Mumbai and Bengaluru and has added two small-format locations in Mumbai and New Delhi.

Looking ahead, Ikea is planning to double its production for domestic stores and its exports, with the aim of reaching a value of around $930 million.

Patrik Antoni, CEO of Ikea India, expresses strong faith in the potential of the Indian market, despite it not being a large Ikea market yet. He views India as a future central player in Ikea’s global market.

Despite the decision by the former US President Donald Trump to double tariffs on imports from India up to 50%, Antoni maintains that this move has had minimal impact on Ikea’s Indian suppliers, as the brand primarily exports to other markets.

Questions & Answers

What is Ikea’s investment plan for India over the next five years?
Ikea plans to double its current investment in India to over 200 billion rupees, or approximately US$2.2 billion, within the next five years.

What is Ikea’s strategy for expanding in India?
Ikea is planning to increase its number of physical stores from six to 30 and aims to quadruple its annual sales. The company also plans to boost its online presence before launching brick-and-mortar stores in new cities.

What effect has the increase in tariffs on imports from India had on Ikea?
According to Ikea India’s CEO, Patrik Antoni, the doubling of tariffs on imports from India to 50% has had little effect on Ikea’s Indian suppliers, as the company primarily exports to other markets.

January 21, 2026
Beauty Retailer Sasa’s Sales Skyrocket by 12.5% Amid Intense Promotions and Online Boost

Sa Sa International, the prominent Hong Kong beauty retailer, has reported a widespread increase in sales during the fiscal third quarter. After a lengthy phase of dwindling profits, which the company previously attributed to a “languid macroenvironment”, Sa Sa International has witnessed a revenue surge of 12.5% in Q3 compared to the same period last year.

Online Sales Growth

The upturn was driven by a 14.9% rise in online sales, whilst in-store sales across Hong Kong, Macau, and Southeast Asia also showcased impressive growth of over 10%. In the third quarter, Sa Sa International posted revenues of HK$1.15 billion (US$147 million).

A spokesperson for the company outlined the strategic moves that led to the turnaround: “The group ramped up promotional activities and rolled out time-limited offers in association with brand partners at key events. This included the National Day Golden Week in October, the Sasa mega sale in November, and the Christmas holidays in December. The result was a notable year-on-year growth in both online and brick-and-mortar sales.”

The Chinese Mainland Tourist Factor

The spokesperson further highlighted the role of increasing Chinese mainland tourist arrivals in Hong Kong and Macau. It was observed that traditional tourist districts of Hong Kong and Macau saw a satisfying increase in store sales.

Sa Sa International also saw an uplift in the total number of transactions recorded in Q3, which increased by 2.9% year-on-year. Concurrently, the average sales per transaction showed a 9.4% rise in the same period.

Questions & Answers

What was the percentage increase in Sa Sa International’s revenue in Q3?
Sa Sa International’s revenues increased by 12.5% in Q3 compared to the same period the previous year.

What factors contributed to the growth in Sa Sa International’s sales?
The growth was due to an increase in promotional activities, time-limited offers in association with brand partners at key events, and a rise in Chinese mainland tourist arrivals in Hong Kong and Macau.

Did the total number of transactions and average sales per transaction rise in Q3?
Yes, the total number of transactions recorded in Q3 increased by 2.9% year-on-year, and the average sales per transaction also rose by 9.4% in the same period.

January 21, 2026