Retail News CRM

Tag: Digital

  • Samsonite Secures 85% Stake in Celebrity-Founded Béis: Spearheading Digital Growth with $178.5M Deal

    Samsonite Secures 85% Stake in Celebrity-Founded Béis: Spearheading Digital Growth with $178.5M Deal

    Global luggage leader, Samsonite Group, recently announced a deal to acquire the travel brand, Béis. This California-based company, established by the Canadian actor Shay Mitchell, will sell 85 percent of its stake to Samsonite for a whopping US$178.5 million. The agreement is slated to culminate in the fourth quarter of 2026, pending the necessary approvals.

    Social Media Alignment and Future Prospects

    Samsonite, listed on the Hong Kong Exchange, shares that Béis’ combined user following, which numbers more than two million across TikTok and Instagram, matches their aim of boosting digital fluency. Samsonite’s CEO, Kyle Gendreau, extends a warm welcome to Béis, expressing his enthusiasm about the valuable addition to their family of inventive and influential brands.

    Gendreau foresees a wealth of opportunities to expedite Béis’ long-term expansion while retaining the brand’s entrepreneurial spirit, inventiveness, and robust identity that have been instrumental in its success since inception.

    From Dream to Reality

    Béis was conceived by Shay Mitchell, best known for her role in the long-standing drama series ‘Pretty Little Liars’, with the vision of offering affordable and functional luggage. Mitchell, who currently holds the position of chief creative officer at Béis, considers this development as the realization of a dream.

    Mitchell takes pride in her small but capable team’s achievement over the past eight years, expressing that joining forces with Samsonite Group allows them to dream bigger. She views Samsonite as the ideal partner, where their strengths complement each other, offering Béis avenues for growth that would have been impossible single-handedly.

    In 2025, Béis reportedly raked in about $210 million in revenue. With this acquisition, Samsonite intends to proliferate its footprint into fresh international markets. Béis’ existing leadership team will continue in their roles, with Mitchell holding onto a 15 percent stake. Beach House Group, Béis’ majority shareholder, will sell its stake as part of the deal.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the stake that Samsonite Group is acquiring in Béis?
    Samsonite Group is acquiring an 85 percent stake in Béis.

    Who is the founder of Béis and what role does she currently hold in the company?
    Béis was founded by Canadian actor Shay Mitchell, who serves as the company’s chief creative officer.

    What is Samsonite’s plan for Béis following the acquisition?
    Samsonite plans to extend Béis’ reach into new international markets while preserving the brand’s identity and creativity.

  • Indonesia Sparks Digital Evolution in Retail with First Nationwide Connected Packaging Contest

    Indonesia Sparks Digital Evolution in Retail with First Nationwide Connected Packaging Contest

    Over 40 universities are participating in a national initiative to explore how product packaging can be transformed into a constant customer engagement platform through augmented reality. This comes at a time when retailers and brands are grappling with increased customer acquisition costs, diminishing organic social media reach, and the growing need to cultivate direct customer relationships. In response to these challenges, a new avenue for marketing is emerging in the form of product packaging, a tool consumers already bring home with them.

    Traditionally viewed as a mere protective container or branding surface, packaging is increasingly transitioning into a digital touchpoint capable of extending the customer journey beyond the point of purchase. This connects physical products with digital experiences on the web, enabling brands to continue educating consumers, tell more elaborate product narratives, verify authenticity, provide after-sales services, encourage repeat purchases, and foster direct customer interaction even after products have left the retail shelves.

    This transformation underlines a wider evolution happening in retail, where every physical product has the potential to transform into an owned media channel. This allows brands to maintain direct communication with consumers, minus the reliance on paid advertising or third-party digital platforms.

    Turning Packaging into Interactive Retail Experiences

    Recognizing this opportunity, Singapore-based MarTech firm HOVARLAY has launched the Nusantara Packaging Experience Awards (NPEA) 2026, Indonesia’s inaugural national competition focusing on connected packaging innovation.

    Participants from over 40 universities and polytechnics across Indonesia have come together for this competition, which encourages students to reimagine traditional packaging as a strategic business asset. It is not just about visual design; it’s about strengthening customer interactions, improving retail experiences, and creating tangible value for brands.

    The participants, focusing on Indonesia’s rich oleh-oleh industry, have been tasked to revamp regional food, beverage, and souvenir packaging using HOVARLAY’s no-code, web-based augmented reality platform. By merely scanning with a smartphone, consumers can unlock interactive digital experiences that range from destination storytelling and artisan heritage to product education, loyalty programs, recipes, promotions, sustainability information, and brand experiences.

    Seizing Opportunity through Connected Packaging

    For Indonesia, one of Southeast Asia’s most extensive consumer markets, this opportunity is particularly notable. With its vibrant ecosystem of regional specialty products and tourism-driven retail, connected packaging offers local brands the chance to stand out and emphasize the cultural stories behind their products.

    While technologies like QR codes have become increasingly familiar to consumers, their use has largely been confined to payments or basic product information. Through NPEA, students are challenged to broaden their vision and transform packaging into an interactive retail experience that fluidly merges physical products with digital storytelling and customer engagement.

    Questions & Answers

    1. How is packaging evolving in the retail industry?
    Packaging is no longer just a protective container or branding surface. It’s becoming a digital touchpoint that extends the customer journey beyond the point of purchase, by linking physical products to digital experiences.

    2. What is the Nusantara Packaging Experience Awards (NPEA) 2026?
    The NPEA 2026 is Indonesia’s first national competition dedicated to connected packaging innovation. It pushes students to reconsider traditional packaging and view it as a strategic business asset that can strengthen customer engagement and enhance retail experiences.

    3. How can connected packaging benefit brands and consumers?
    Connected packaging can extend customer engagement beyond the point of purchase, providing ongoing education and support. For brands, it creates an owned media channel for direct communication with consumers, gathering valuable engagement insights for future marketing and customer retention strategies.

  • Indonesian E-Commerce Giants Appointed as Tax Collectors: A New Dawn in Digital Sales Taxation Starts November

    Indonesian E-Commerce Giants Appointed as Tax Collectors: A New Dawn in Digital Sales Taxation Starts November

    Beginning November 1, income tax collection will be initiated from sellers on e-commerce platforms in Indonesia, as confirmed by the country’s tax authority. The plan, which was postponed twice in an effort to stimulate consumer spending, is now scheduled to commence.

    Postponement for Economic Stability

    The decision for this delay was taken by the government to retain public purchasing power during uncertain economic conditions. The tax office has assured that any income tax already collected from the sellers will be reimbursed.

    Several e-commerce giants, including Tokopedia, which is overseen by TikTok’s parent company ByteDance and partially owned by Indonesia’s largest tech company GoTo; Shopee, which is a part of Sea Limited; Alibaba-backed Lazada, and Blibli, were initially assigned as tax collectors. However, the tax office has indicated that it will revoke the appointments of these four marketplaces and reassess the selection at a future time.

    Preparations by e-Commerce Platforms

    In response to this development, the Indonesia e-commerce industry association, idEA, stated that the marketplaces have been taking steps to facilitate a more efficient collection process when it eventually commences. The original plan to implement tax collection was supposed to be enacted last year, but due to objections from sellers and platforms, it was delayed until this year.

    Questions & Answers

    Why was the tax collection plan delayed?

    The plan was postponed in order to maintain public purchasing power amidst challenging economic conditions.

    Who were initially appointed as the tax collectors?

    Tokopedia, Shopee, Lazada, and Blibli were the e-commerce platforms initially appointed by the government to collect taxes.

    What is the response from the e-commerce industry?

    The Indonesia e-commerce industry association, idEA, stated that the marketplaces are making preparations to facilitate a smoother tax collection process when it begins.

  • South Korea’s Startup Boom: How Flexible Digital Regulations Could Unleash a ₩2.4 Trillion Venture Capital Upsurge

    South Korea’s Startup Boom: How Flexible Digital Regulations Could Unleash a ₩2.4 Trillion Venture Capital Upsurge

    South Korea has the potential to draw an extra ₩2.4 trillion in yearly venture capital investment and launch numerous additional startups if it were to adopt more favorable digital regulations, a recent study conducted by Oxford Economics for Digital Prosperity Asia (DPA) suggests.

    The study claims that while digital regulations are vital to ensuring trust, security, and consumer protection, growing compliance requirements are exerting additional pressure on startups. This burden impacts their innovation capabilities, their potential to raise capital, and their ability to scale their businesses.

    Statistical modeling by Oxford Economics suggests that a more lenient regulatory framework from 2026 to 2035 could escalate the annual startup formation by nearly 15 percent, which translates to about 240 additional startups per year. It could also support around 21,000 startup jobs by 2035. In contrast, a tighter regulatory atmosphere could decrease startup formation by 8 percent and diminish annual venture capital investment by an estimated ₩1.3 trillion.

    Despite South Korea boasting one of the most robust startup ecosystems in Asia, the research indicates that regulatory design is increasingly becoming a crucial factor in future growth. While regulation is critical to building trust and safeguarding consumers, the economic implications are considerable. A more conducive regulatory environment could stimulate increased startup formation, lure more investment, and aid job creation over the coming decade, thereby ensuring South Korea maintains its status as a premier destination for digital innovation.

    The research was based on a survey of 500 participants in South Korea’s startup ecosystem, reinforced by expert interviews and economic modeling.

    The Increasing Cost of Compliance

    The study posits that compliance has shifted from a regulatory obligation to a significant business cost for many startups. The survey reveals that 86 percent of South Korean startups believe that digital regulation imposes operational constraints, with almost a quarter describing the impact as major or severe. Over 75 percent allocate more than 5 percent of their operating costs to compliance, with 44 percent spending above 15 percent of their operating expenses on meeting regulatory requirements.

    Nearly 80 percent of startups reported restructuring their operations to comply with digital rules, including adopting compliant cloud infrastructure, implementing new compliance processes, and leaning more on external legal and advisory services.

    The report also suggests that regulatory requirements are increasingly channeling resources away from innovation. Approximately 77 percent of startups reported that digital regulations had affected their capacity for innovation, while 58 percent had to redirect financial resources from research and development towards compliance. Almost half stated that regulatory obligations had caused delays in product launches or extended time-to-market.

    Investor Worries

    The study further reveals that digital regulations also impact fundraising. Half of the startups surveyed indicated that digital regulations create uncertainty about investment returns, thereby complicating the process of raising capital. Among venture capital investors, 58 percent claimed that regulatory requirements make expected returns less predictable. Half of them indicated that they would lessen their exposure to higher-risk startups if regulations became stricter.

    The study emphasizes the necessity of ensuring that regulatory frameworks are risk-based, proportionate, and practical, taking into account businesses of various sizes and stages. It concludes that the design of digital regulation will play an increasingly influential role in determining South Korea’s competitiveness as one of Asia’s premier technology and innovation hubs, particularly as policymakers aim to strike a balance between consumer protection and economic growth and investment.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the potential impact of more enabling digital regulations in South Korea?
    A more enabling regulatory environment could boost the annual startup formation by nearly 15 percent, equating to about 240 additional startups per year, and could support about 21,000 startup jobs by 2035.

    How are regulatory requirements affecting startups in South Korea?
    Regulatory requirements place operational constraints on startups, with compliance now representing a significant business cost. These obligations are increasingly diverting resources away from innovation and leading to delays in product launches or extended time-to-market.

    How do digital regulations impact fundraising for startups?
    Digital regulations create uncertainty around investment returns, making it more difficult for startups to raise capital. Regulatory requirements also make expected returns less predictable, causing some investors to reduce their exposure to higher-risk startups.

  • Malaysia Boosts Digital Infrastructure with New SALAM Submarine Cable Network

    Malaysia Boosts Digital Infrastructure with New SALAM Submarine Cable Network

    Malaysia is making strides in its efforts to enhance digital connectivity within the country. The nation’s communications regulatory body is encouraging licensed telecommunications entities to consider participating in the construction of a new domestic underwater cable network.

    The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has prompted qualified license holders to indicate their interest in this groundbreaking project on July 16. They were also asked to present an initial Universal Service Plan for evaluation. The regulator requested draft proposals, however, they did not provide a final date for submissions.

    The planned network, named SALAM (Sambungan Kabel Dasar Laut MADANI), is projected to extend over 5,582 kilometers. It will consist of four submarine cable segments connecting ten landing stations scattered throughout the nation. SALAM’s primary objective is to bolster Malaysia’s internal communications infrastructure by creating a new underwater backbone that connects Peninsular Malaysia with Sabah and Sarawak.

    According to Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, the new network is expected to eventually replace the ageing SCREAM cable system. This system has been a significant domestic link for over a decade.

    With the introduction of SALAM, the MCMC plans to further augment domestic transmission capacity. It also aims to support multiple services and industries such as nationwide 5G expansion, broadband services, cloud computing, artificial intelligence applications, data centers, and other digital industries. Funded under Malaysia’s USP framework, SALAM will assist in financing communications projects in underserved regions, with contributions sourced from qualifying telecommunications license holders.

    Oscar Ling, a Sibu Member of Parliament, applauded the project, stating that it would enhance connectivity between Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak. He also noted that it would help deliver more reliable internet services to communities in Sibu and across Sarawak.

    The progression of the project is contingent on the expressions of interest and draft Universal Service Plans submitted by eligible telecommunications companies. The MCMC has not yet announced when these submissions will be made public.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the aim of the SALAM network?
    The SALAM network aims to bolster Malaysia’s domestic communications infrastructure by creating a new underwater backbone that connects Peninsular Malaysia with Sabah and Sarawak.

    What services and industries will SALAM support?
    SALAM plans to support multiple services and industries such as nationwide 5G expansion, broadband services, cloud computing, artificial intelligence applications, data centers, and other digital industries.

    Who is funding the SALAM project?
    The SALAM project will be funded under Malaysia’s USP framework, which finances communication projects in underserved regions with contributions from qualifying telecommunications license holders.

  • Digital Bridge Unveiled: China and Cambodia Debut Historic Subsea Cable System

    Digital Bridge Unveiled: China and Cambodia Debut Historic Subsea Cable System

    China Unicom Global, in partnership with Cambodia’s Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications (MPT), has made significant strides in the global telecommunications arena with the successful landing and installation of the Sihanoukville-Hong Kong (SHV-HK) submarine cable system. This monumental achievement establishes a direct digital link from Sihanoukville, Cambodia to the Tseung Kwan O Industrial Estate in Hong Kong SAR.

    First State-Owned International Submarine Fiber-Optic System in Cambodia

    The collaborative venture between the MPT and China Unicom Global has produced the inaugural state-owned international submarine fiber-optic system in Cambodia. Produced and deployed by HMN Tech, this significant investment, costing an estimated USD 165 million, is set to enhance high-capacity optical transport across the South China Sea.

    The SHV-HK subsea system spans an impressive 2,938 kilometers and features a main trunk with two additional stub cables, paving the way for potential expansions in the future. Boasting a design capacity of a whopping 80 Terabits per second across four fiber pairs, this cable has the capacity to support over 3.2 million simultaneous streams of 4K ultra-high-definition video or manage massive enterprise cloud transfers.

    Hong Kong’s Role in the Ambitious Project

    China Unicom Global is managing the Hong Kong segment of this ambitious project. The cable reaches the shore at a Beach Manhole (BMH) specifically located in the Tseung Kwan O Industrial Estate. Supplementing the overall infrastructure are the Power Feeding Equipment (PFE) and Submarine Line Terminal Equipment (SLTE) located at China Unicom Global’s global center and cable landing station in the Tseung Kwan O Industrial Estate. These installations will guide traffic effectively into the major local carrier-neutral data centers.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the length of the SHV-HK submarine cable system?
    The SHV-HK submarine cable system stretches for approximately 2,938 kilometers.

    What capacity does the SHV-HK submarine cable system hold?
    The cable system has a design capacity of up to 80 Terabits per second, which can support over 3.2 million simultaneous streams of 4K ultra-high-definition video or extensive enterprise cloud transfers.

    Who are the key players involved in this project?
    China Unicom Global and Cambodia’s Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications (MPT) have partnered to complete this project, with HMN Tech manufacturing and deploying the cable system.

  • China’s New Renaissance: How AI and Digital Economy Could Transform Global Investments

    China’s New Renaissance: How AI and Digital Economy Could Transform Global Investments

    After enduring years of economic adjustments and investor uncertainty, China is on the cusp of entering a fresh chapter. This revival is anticipated to be powered by advancements in manufacturing, artificial intelligence (AI), and the digital economy, potentially presenting vast implications for global investors, according to the Bank of Singapore.

    Reassessing China’s Economic Prospects

    The Bank of Singapore suggests a reevaluation of China’s economic potential. In its report titled “2026 Supertrends: Cycles, Halos and Moonshots,” the private bank identifies China’s renaissance as one of five key trends expected to shape investment markets by 2030. The other trends include geopolitical chokepoints, a refreshed approach to portfolio development, the expansive influence of artificial intelligence, and the rapidly growing longevity economy. However, the resurgence of China’s economy is deemed particularly significant for Asian investors.

    The bank asserts that China is transitioning from an era of economic recalibration to a new phase of renaissance. The economic opportunities are projected to stem from high-value products and services as China intensifies the development of its digital economy. The bank also forecasts that the emerging strength in advanced manufacturing in North Asia, especially industries contributing to AI development, will be a crucial source of investment returns. A robust Chinese renminbi is also expected to be a favorable contributing factor.

    This hypothesis signals a significant shift in outlook, following several challenging years for Chinese assets characterized by a prolonged property downturn, dwindling domestic demand, and geopolitical tensions.

    The Transformative Role of AI in Investments

    The potential resurgence of China is closely linked to another significant investment theme identified by the Bank of Singapore: artificial intelligence. The bank anticipates that the investment sectors benefiting from AI expansion will extend far beyond a select group of technology stocks. Possibilities are expected to arise across asset classes, including equities and fixed income as well as public and private markets.

    This could be advantageous for North Asia, where advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, and the broader technology supply chain are gaining increasing importance in the global AI ecosystem.

    Geopolitics, however, remains a significant risk, expected to shape investment strategies in a world increasingly influenced by strategic chokepoints. Control over resources and infrastructure could be wielded for strategic or economic leverage, as exemplified by China’s position in rare earths and other critical materials. This could result in a more volatile global climate, contributing to higher inflation, elevated government deficits, and fluctuating long-term bond yields.

    The evolving global landscape could also significantly impact currencies. The Bank of Singapore predicts modest short-term strengthening for the US dollar but a more bearish outlook in the long term. Large fiscal and current account deficits, coupled with potential political pressure on the Federal Reserve, could trigger a multi-year downtrend for the greenback.

    Consequently, safe-haven assets such as gold, the Swiss franc, and the Singapore dollar may gain prominence as investors seek alternatives to traditional government bonds for portfolio hedges.

    For investors, the inference is clear: the forthcoming phase of Asian growth is expected to be drastically different from the past, characterized by less dependence on traditional globalization and more emphasis on technology, strategic supply chains, and the competition for critical resources.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the anticipated economic shift in China?
    The Bank of Singapore suggests that China is transitioning from a period of economic recalibration to a new phase of renaissance, powered by advancements in manufacturing, AI, and the digital economy.

    What role does artificial intelligence (AI) play in this shift?
    AI is considered a major catalyst for the expected economic resurgence in China, with opportunities expected across asset classes. It is also perceived as instrumental in advancing North Asia’s manufacturing and technology sectors.

    What implications could the changing global landscape have on currencies?
    The Bank of Singapore anticipates modest short-term strengthening for the US dollar but a bearish outlook in the long term, which could result in a multi-year downtrend for the greenback due to large fiscal and current account deficits, and potential political pressure on the Federal Reserve.

  • Techcombank Leverages Digital Finance to Tap into Vietnams $100 Billion Infrastructure Nexus

    Techcombank Leverages Digital Finance to Tap into Vietnams $100 Billion Infrastructure Nexus

    Techcombank, Vietnam Technological and Commercial Joint Stock Bank, is strategizing to bridge global capital with Vietnam’s escalating investment needs. The bank is placing digital financial infrastructure at the forefront, seeing it as a pivotal factor for the country’s next economic growth stage.

    Techcombank is expressing its aspiration to be instrumental in channeling both local and global capital towards Vietnam’s economic progression. In furtherance of its goals, it co-hosted the Vietnam Financial Forum 2026 (VFF 2026) from July 9th to 10th in Danang. The forum attracted over 350 attendees, including policymakers and executives from domestic and international financial institutions and companies.

    Modernizing Vietnam’s Capital Markets

    The forum centered on the modernization of Vietnam’s capital markets, bolstering the country’s financial infrastructure, and enhancing corporate access to capital. The country’s government aims to achieve double-digit economic growth from 2026 through to 2030.

    Digital and green finance took center stage at the forum. Delegates deliberated on how new technologies and the digital transformation of the financial infrastructure could ease capital flow and bolster Vietnamese companies.

    Techcombank CEO, Jens Lottner, in his keynote speech, pointed out that the bank’s role goes beyond conventional financing. He stated, “We are constructing the digital infrastructure that allows capital, data, and financial services to flow smoothly through the economy.” The CEO also revealed Techcombank’s goal to be Vietnam’s most reliable financial platform and to help efficiently channel domestic and international capital into sectors generating sustainable economic value.

    $100 Billion Investment Goal

    The funding of Vietnam’s rapidly expanding infrastructure needs was a key focus of the forum. Techcombank executives and representatives of their partner ecosystem discussed potential areas for the next $100 billion investment. The conversations included infrastructure, energy, and industrial development, as well as tactics to draw capital from global institutional investors.

    Techcombank emphasized mechanisms for luring foreign investment and steering international capital towards strategic Vietnamese projects. Lottner mentioned that Techcombank is ready to share its experience in developing digital ecosystems and utilizing data and technology to connect citizens, companies, investors, and public services.

    Techcombank aims to contribute its financial resources, tech expertise, and global network to the development of a more modern and transparent financial ecosystem through its participation in the Vietnam Financial Forum. The bank currently services around 18 million retail and corporate clients and operates one of Vietnam’s top digital banking platforms.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Techcombank’s primary aim in Vietnam’s economic development?
    Techcombank aims to facilitate the efficient allocation of both domestic and international capital into sectors generating sustainable economic value, leveraging digital financial infrastructure.

    What were the key areas of focus at the Vietnam Financial Forum 2026?
    The forum focused on modernizing Vietnam’s capital markets, strengthening the country’s financial infrastructure, and improving corporate access to capital. Other areas of focus included digital finance, green finance, and the role of technology in facilitating capital flow.

    What is Techcombank’s strategy for meeting Vietnam’s growing infrastructure needs?
    Techcombank intends to attract and steer international capital towards strategic projects in Vietnam. It also aims to share its experience in developing digital ecosystems and using data and technology to connect various sectors, including citizens, companies, investors, and public services.

  • Embrace the Digital Detox: Join KitKat’s Rawdog Your Commute Challenge for a Chance to Win a Weekend Escape

    Embrace the Digital Detox: Join KitKat’s Rawdog Your Commute Challenge for a Chance to Win a Weekend Escape

    KitKat, the renowned confectionery brand, is inviting Australians to embrace the growing trend of going entirely phone-free during their daily commute. This trend, aptly named ‘rawdogging’, has rapidly permeated everyday culture, with evidence of its popularity evident in the over 45 million posts on the social media platform, TikTok.

    KitKat ‘Rawdog your Commute’ Challenge

    In a bid to encourage individuals to take a break from their phones, KitKat has introduced the ‘Rawdog your Commute’ Challenge. This initiative involves a game that challenges commuters to see the length of time they can go without using their phones. Participants stand a chance to win one of 10 Unyoked 2-night weekend getaway e-gift cards, valued up to $626, which can be used anywhere in Australia. The longer the phone-free period, the higher the probability of winning.

    To participate in the game, individuals can scan a QR code on billboards positioned near commuting locations. Alternatively, they can visit the campaign’s website to start a timer that tracks the duration they can abstain from using their phone.

    Australians Crave a Break from Their Phones

    The launch of this campaign is timely as recent research commissioned by KitKat reveals that a significant 84% of Australians desire a break from their mobile devices. Additionally, 23% of respondents expressed that being phone-free would make their commute more enjoyable. Among those who have inadvertently been without their phones, 40% reported feeling happier, liberated, relieved, and more present.

    Shannon Wright, Nestlé Oceania’s Head of Marketing for Confectionery, commented on the campaign, stating, “KitKat has always been about aiding Australians in taking better breaks. However, disconnecting has become increasingly challenging in today’s digital age. This is why we’re encouraging commuters to rawdog their commutes via our new Phone Break game. We aim to make it achievable by rewarding those small, everyday moments that are transformed into a proper break.”

    KitKat asserts that this campaign is a contemporary take on its longstanding efforts to promote healthier breaks. It taps into the burgeoning consumer interest in digital well-being.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the aim of the KitKat ‘Rawdog your Commute’ Challenge?
    The challenge aims to encourage commuters to take a break from their phones during their daily journeys, making their commute more enjoyable and relaxing.

    How can one participate in the ‘Rawdog your Commute’ Challenge?
    Participants can join the challenge by scanning a QR code on billboards near commuting locations or by visiting the campaign’s website.

    What are the rewards for the challenge?
    Participants stand a chance to win one of 10 Unyoked 2-night weekend getaway e-gift cards, valued up to $626, to be used anywhere in Australia. The longer one goes without using their phone, the higher the probability of winning.

  • DBS Unveils Singapores First Retail-Ready Tokenised Gold Offering: Buy, Trade, and Hold via One Digital Platform

    DBS Unveils Singapores First Retail-Ready Tokenised Gold Offering: Buy, Trade, and Hold via One Digital Platform

    DBS Bank is set to revolutionize the financial market in Singapore by launching tokenized physical gold for retail customers in the latter half of 2026. With this initiative, DBS Bank takes the lead as the first bank in the nation to empower its customers with the capability to purchase, possess, and transact in tokenized physical gold via a singular digital platform.

    Tokenizing Precious Metal

    The advanced DBS Physical Gold Tokens will be available through the DBS digibank app. With each token backed by an equivalent amount of physical gold that will be securely stored in a dedicated DBS vault located in Singapore. Each token will stand for one gram of gold, providing customers the opportunity to acquire fractional ownership of this valuable metal.

    DBS Bank assures that this offering will facilitate 24/7 trading, almost immediate settlement, and the choice to exchange tokens for physical gold. Moreover, the bank is looking into the possibility of having the tokens listed on the DBS Digital Exchange (DDEx) for accredited and institutional investors.

    This launch coincides with the escalating interest in gold and the tokenization of real-world assets. DBS Bank will oversee the entire procedure internally, including tokenization, custodial services, vaulting, and distribution.

    Li Zhen, Head of Foreign Exchange, Precious Metals, and Digital Assets at DBS, commented on the initiative, stating that the bank’s comprehensive digital asset capabilities will simplify access to and management of physical gold for clients.

    James Tan, Group Head of Investment Product and Advisory, also shared his views on the subject. He mentioned that tokenization would expand access to an asset class that has typically been accessible mainly to wealthy and institutional clients.

    Expanding Digital Asset Services

    The introduction of tokenized gold expands upon DBS Bank’s existing array of gold investment products. Moreover, it is part of the bank’s broader endeavor to delve into digital assets and blockchain-based financial services.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the DBS Physical Gold Tokens initiative?
    This initiative by DBS Bank allows customers to purchase, hold, and trade tokenized physical gold via a single digital platform.

    What features does the tokenized gold offering include?
    The offering will enable 24/7 trading, near-instant settlement and the option to redeem tokens for physical gold. The bank is also exploring a future listing of the tokens on the DBS Digital Exchange for accredited and institutional investors.

    How does this initiative fit into DBS Bank’s broader strategy?
    The tokenized gold offering expands DBS Bank’s existing range of gold investment products and is part of the bank’s broader push into digital assets and blockchain-based financial services.

  • Mastercard Boosts Digital Banking in Asia with Merchant-Funded Offers Integration

    Mastercard Boosts Digital Banking in Asia with Merchant-Funded Offers Integration

    In response to the rapid digital transformation impacting consumer habits throughout the Asia-Pacific region, financial institutions are focusing on redefining their mobile applications to become integral components of daily transactions.

    Mastercard, a global leader in digital payments, predicts that this shift could drastically alter the function of banking applications in the region. The company recently divulged its intentions to broaden its Mastercard Offers Network throughout the Asia-Pacific, which will empower banks to deliver merchant-funded offers directly on their digital banking platforms.

    This strategic move corresponds with the Asia-Pacific’s solidification as the globe’s primary digital payments market. As reported by Mastercard, transaction volumes in this area hit nearly $16 trillion in 2025. Concurrently, consumers are becoming familiar with the convenience provided by all-in-one ‘super apps’ such as Grab and GoTo, which amalgamate payments, transportation, food delivery, and rewards into a unified ecosystem.

    Spanning the Divide Between Banks and Merchants

    The potential of this strategy extends beyond the banking sector. Merchants are grappling with escalating pressure to justify their marketing expenditure, despite numerous digital advertising channels struggling to verify if impressions and clicks result in actual sales.

    Mastercard contends that both banks and merchants possess assets sought after by the other party. Banks have access to large audiences of reliable, authenticated users, whereas merchants contribute enticing offers and marketing budgets. According to Mastercard, the missing element is an infrastructure layer with the capability to connect both parties on a large scale.

    The Mastercard Offers Network intends to supply this infrastructure. Via this platform, merchant-funded offers can be featured directly within banking apps and connected to real card transactions, permitting merchants to assess campaign effectiveness based on confirmed purchases instead of substitute metrics.

    Taking Advantage of Cross-Border Commerce

    The platform’s primary appeal is its focus on both domestic and cross-border commerce, which is notably relevant in the Asia-Pacific region, where regional travel has seen a substantial resurgence in recent years.

    Mastercard approximates that about 70 percent of travel expenditure in the region currently stems from travellers within the Asia-Pacific, with more than 331 million international visitors reported in 2025. By incorporating cross-border offers into their apps, banks can maintain relevance to customers whether they’re shopping domestically or abroad.

    Merchants benefit from this model by gaining access to consumers at the point of purchase, while banks obtain an additional tool for engagement that surpasses traditional banking services.

    The expansion of the Mastercard Offers Network comes as digital banking adoption continues to gain momentum throughout mature and emerging markets in Asia. Consumer expectations are also evolving, with users increasingly anticipating personalized experiences and rewards integrated into their digital journeys.

    Mastercard’s approach mirrors a wider industry trend: transforming banking apps from transactional tools into commerce ecosystems. Instead of solely competing on payments and account services, banks are progressively aiming to become platforms where consumers discover offers, make purchases, and interact with merchants.

    The Mastercard Offers Network is already up and running in markets such as the United States, Canada, Australia, Poland, and Hong Kong. As the platform extends throughout the Asia-Pacific, it could provide banks with a novel method for bolstering customer loyalty, while offering merchants a more quantifiable and targeted marketing channel.

    Whether banking apps will ultimately be able to compete with the region’s prevalent super apps is yet to be determined. However, it is evident that the competition for consumer engagement is progressing far beyond traditional financial services.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the purpose of the Mastercard Offers Network?
    The network aims to provide an infrastructure that allows merchant-funded offers to be displayed directly within banking apps, linking them to actual card transactions.

    How does the integration of cross-border offers into banking apps benefit financial institutions and their customers?
    Financial institutions can remain relevant to customers whether they’re shopping domestically or abroad, while consumers gain more personalized experiences and rewards.

    What trend is Mastercard’s strategy reflecting in the broader industry?
    Mastercard’s strategy reflects the transformation of banking apps from transaction tools into commerce ecosystems. Banks are increasingly seeking to become platforms where consumers discover offers, make purchases, and interact with merchants.

  • Citi Strengthens Bonds with Vietnam: A New Era of Financial Growth and Digital Transformation

    Citi Strengthens Bonds with Vietnam: A New Era of Financial Growth and Digital Transformation

    Catherine Simmons, a significant figure in the U.S.-ASEAN Business Council, shared her insights following a recent delegation visit to Hanoi. Simmons discussed the importance of the visit, the financial sector’s key messages, and Citi’s future forecasts for Vietnam.

    Assessing the Importance of the Delegation Visit

    Simmons classified the visit as both relevant and substantive. It provided the first opportunity for a public-private dialogue between the freshly appointed Vietnamese government and the U.S. business community, allowing for an early engagement to reaffirm the private sector’s commitment to Vietnam’s ongoing development.

    The visit saw the participation of 52 U.S. companies and 120 delegates, showcasing the strong and growing interest in Vietnam. Not only is Vietnam perceived as a strategic supply chain hub and a domestic market with a population over 100 million, but it’s also viewed as a key long-term growth opportunity in the region.

    As for Citi, the delegation visit provided an excellent opportunity to strengthen its relationship with policymakers and reinforce its long-standing commitment to Vietnam.

    Key Takeaways from the Dialogue with Vietnamese Government

    During the discussions, the financial services industry – represented by Citi, ClearOne, Manulife, Warburg Pincus, Mastercard, and Visa – highlighted the importance of a modern, connected, and robust financial system for economic infrastructure. They expressed their support for Vietnam’s initiatives to further digital transformation, regulatory modernization, and innovation in both public and private sectors.

    The group also urged for ongoing consultations with industry stakeholders as Vietnam formulates laws and policies that will impact the financial markets. They showed their readiness to offer technical expertise and practical solutions to issues concerning settlement infrastructure, payments interoperability, cross-border data flows, and alignment with international standards.

    These issues are crucial to Vietnam at this time as the country is at a critical development stage. As it integrates deeper into the global markets, it will need a more advanced financial infrastructure to sustain increasing investment flows, broader capital market participation, and the evolving needs of a rapidly changing digital economy.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the Vietnamese government’s reaction to the delegation’s recommendations?
    The Vietnamese Prime Minister, Le Minh Hung, assured that the government is committed to rapid and sustainable growth. He emphasized that science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation are at the core of their development strategy and called on ministries and agencies to address the issues raised by the delegation promptly.

    What does this visit signify for Citi’s future in Vietnam?
    The visit gave Citi an opportunity to strengthen its relationships with various government ministries and agencies in Vietnam. In addition to providing financial services, the bank contributes to policy dialogue, supports market development, and facilitates connections to global capital and trade flows. Citi views Vietnam as a strategically important market with significant opportunities to support the country’s growth as reforms continue.

    What is the potential impact of the delegation’s visit on the U.S.-Vietnam relations?
    The delegation’s visit signifies an important step towards strengthening U.S.-Vietnam relations. Its success has laid the groundwork for continued engagement between policymakers and the business community, reflecting Vietnam’s clear ambition to modernize and strengthen economic competitiveness.

  • TikTok’s $125M Digital Expansion: Chinese Giant to Bolster HCMC’s Tech Sector

    TikTok’s $125M Digital Expansion: Chinese Giant to Bolster HCMC’s Tech Sector

    TikTok, the renowned Chinese social media platform, has pledged an investment of $125 million in Ho Chi Minh City. The funds are intended to boost logistics services, digital commerce, and digital payment systems in the bustling Vietnamese metropolis.

    Pledged Investment

    According to an announcement published by the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Finance last Thursday, the commitment was made by TikTok’s investment arm based in Singapore. The department, however, did not provide any details regarding the expected timeline of the project.

    The decision followed several meetings between city officials and TikTok’s executive team, which took place at the end of last year. TikTok’s intention is to set up three business entities within the Ho Chi Minh City International Financial Center.

    Q1 Foreign Direct Investment Round-Up

    The Department of Finance stated that the city has attracted almost $2.9 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) during the first quarter of this year, a significant increase of 220% compared to the same period last year.

    Among the prominent projects contributing to this FDI surge include a new manufacturing facility by Techtronic Industries Company based in Singapore, which will require an investment of $81 million. Other contributors include the Dutch firm MSD Animal Health ($80 million), Singapore’s SP Vietnam ($67 million), and Indonesia’s Momogi Group ($55 million).

    The Department credited this substantial uptick in investment to the confidence of foreign investors in the city’s business environment, despite the currently volatile global economy.

    Ho Chi Minh City’s strategic goal for this year is to attract $11 billion in FDI. The city’s primary focuses are high-tech, innovation-driven projects, data centers, logistics, and green growth initiatives.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the purpose of TikTok’s $125 million investment in Ho Chi Minh City?
    The social media giant aims to enhance logistics services, digital commerce, and digital payment systems in the city.

    What are some of the key projects contributing to Ho Chi Minh City’s Q1 foreign direct investment?
    Noteworthy projects include a new manufacturing facility by Techtronic Industries Company, expansions by MSD Animal Health, SP Vietnam, and Momogi Group.

    What are Ho Chi Minh City’s investment priorities for this year?
    The city plans to attract $11 billion in FDI, focusing on high-tech, innovation-driven projects, data centers, logistics, and green growth initiatives.

  • Digital Assets Maintain Strong Long-Term Prospects, Asserts Sygnum Co-Founder

    Digital Assets Maintain Strong Long-Term Prospects, Asserts Sygnum Co-Founder

    Sygnum, a regulated digital asset bank, was conceived with a dual vision between Singapore and Switzerland. Gerald Goh, co-founder and CEO of Sygnum Asia-Pacific, has been a key player in establishing this transcontinental structure since 2017. Even with the fluctuating state of crypto markets, Goh reports a robust demand. According to Sygnum’s recent survey, digital assets are becoming increasingly popular among high net worth individuals (HNWIs) in Asia.

    Origins of Sygnum

    The concept of Sygnum saw its inception in Singapore in 2017 during the Singapore Fintech Festival. Goh, along with his three co-founders Luka Müller, Manuel Krieger and Mathias Imbach, were united by a shared vision: to provide a trustworthy platform for global access to digital assets.

    The founders envisioned Sygnum as a bridge between Singapore and Switzerland, two of the world’s most innovative and forward-thinking financial centers. Their goal was to leverage the openness of these regulatory environments to integrate digital assets into the financial services sector. However, they were unsure which jurisdiction would pioneer the regulation of digital assets.

    Dual Incorporation Strategy

    As a result, the founders decided to simultaneously incorporate Sygnum in both Singapore and Switzerland. This decision proved to be a prudent one, as it allowed them to engage with both regulatory environments from the outset. From its inception, Sygnum has had a strong presence in the Asia-Pacific region.

    Goh explains that the dual structure was driven by the recognition of Singapore and Switzerland as trusted financial hubs in their respective regions. The Swiss base was intended to serve Europe, while the Singapore base would cater to the Asia-Pacific region. The founders saw this as a strategic combination of the best of both worlds, given that both the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) were among the earliest regulators to recognize the potential of blockchain technology.

    Market Orientation

    While Sygnum Asia appears to be more consumer-focused (B2C), its Swiss counterpart is more oriented towards serving businesses (B2B). In Singapore, Sygnum utilizes both B2C and B2B channels, but Goh acknowledges the current tilt towards B2C. The company has more direct clients than banking partners in Singapore, whereas in Switzerland, Sygnum collaborates with over 20 Swiss banks and is a leading provider of B2B services.

    Goh believes that the slower institutional adoption of crypto in Singapore is due to the cautious approach of regulated intermediaries in the region. Despite years of engagement with local banks and external asset managers, the momentum to launch regulated digital asset services has been somewhat subdued compared to other regions.

    Questions & Answers

    How did the concept of Sygnum come into being?
    The idea for Sygnum was conceived during the 2017 Singapore Fintech Festival. The co-founders envisioned a platform that would offer global access to digital assets in a trusted manner.

    What was the rationale behind incorporating Sygnum in both Singapore and Switzerland?
    The decision to incorporate in both jurisdictions was driven by the recognition of Singapore and Switzerland as leading, innovative financial hubs. The dual structure allowed Sygnum to engage proactively with the regulatory environments of both regions.

    Why is institutional adoption of crypto slower in Singapore?
    The slower adoption rate is attributed to the cautious approach of regulated intermediaries in Singapore. Despite ongoing engagement with local banks and external asset managers, the pace to launch regulated digital asset services has been more measured than in other regions.

  • Revolution in Digital Age Verification: Child Safety Advances Amid Global Social Media Clampdown

    Revolution in Digital Age Verification: Child Safety Advances Amid Global Social Media Clampdown

    In recent years, technology firms have been reluctant to constrict minors’ access to their platforms, citing technical constraints, practicality issues, overreach, and security threats. However, an increasing number of governments are now viewing these challenges as surmountable and are moving forward with stringent new age-verification requirements for social media networks, AI chatbots, and adult content providers alike.

    Global Regulatory Shifts

    Following Australia’s notable prohibition on adolescent social media accounts three months ago, regulatory bodies across Europe, Brazil, and several U.S. states are seeking to replicate the move. High-profile political figures such as California Governor Gavin Newsom and former President Donald Trump have also reportedly shown interest in implementing age restrictions.

    The driving forces behind these regulatory changes are mounting anxieties over online abuse and adolescent mental health issues, recent outrage over AI-generated explicit images of children, and a growing faith in the potential of ‘age assurance’ software. Such software can estimate an individual’s age based on facial analysis, parental permission, ID checks, and other digital hints.

    Technological Advancements and the Age Assurance Market

    Recent strides in artificial intelligence have enhanced the efficiency and reduced the cost of age-verification tools. Social media enterprises can now often accurately determine a user’s age group using digital indicators such as the account creation date and the type of content viewed. Meanwhile, an emerging industry of age-verification vendors offers added layers of checks through automated tools like facial scans and machine-based analysis of government IDs.

    App store platforms like Apple and Google have also introduced tools that enable parents to communicate their child’s age range to app developers. This overall improvement in technology and the resultant drop in verification costs have expanded the scope of its application.

    Cost and Effectiveness of Age Verification

    Age-verification vendors usually charge less than a dollar per check for basic machine-only age-assurance tools. Traditional methods that were standard a decade ago, such as human confirmation and triangulation of personal data, are still available at a premium but are needed less frequently. Furthermore, independent evaluations show progress in the accuracy and precision of these tools.

    For example, face-scanning software was off in age estimations by an average of 4.1 years in 2014, while by 2024, this average has dropped to 2.5 years. The latest models from vendors like Yoti and Persona boast of an average error of less than two years for the age range of 13 to 18.

    Challenges and Limitations

    Despite these advancements, there are still limitations. The systems face difficulties with certain skin tones and older phones. Also, they might fail to catch attempts by youngsters to appear older than they are. However, executives believe that facial age estimation can offer a digital equivalent of offline age screening.

    Adding to this, social media services generally require fewer facial scans and ID checks than adult content or gambling sites due to the abundance of personal information they have on users. This allows them to depend more on an age-verification method called ‘inference’.

    Early Implementation Results

    While it’s too early to assess the full impact of Australia’s teen ban, preliminary results are promising. According to Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, companies have blocked 4.7 million suspected underage accounts since the law came into effect. Regulators in other countries are closely monitoring these developments as they consider implementing similar measures.

    Questions & Answers

    What are some of the driving forces behind the implementation of age verification measures?
    Concerns over online abuse, adolescent mental health issues, and the spread of AI-generated explicit child images have all contributed to the push for stricter age verification measures.

    How have technological advancements influenced the age assurance market?
    Advancements in artificial intelligence have improved the efficiency and lowered the cost of age-verification tools. This has broadened the scope of their application beyond high-value transactions.

    What limitations do current age-verification systems face?
    Current age-verification systems can struggle with certain skin tones and older phones. They may also fail to catch attempts by youngsters to appear older than they are. These challenges highlight the need for ongoing refinement and improvement in this technology.