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Tag: surge

  • Hong Kong Sees Record $2.2B Surge in Bulk Property Investments Amid Rising Rental Demand

    Hong Kong Sees Record $2.2B Surge in Bulk Property Investments Amid Rising Rental Demand

    In the wake of a record-breaking first half of the year, bulk homebuyers are anticipated to continue to be a significant influence in Hong Kong’s primary residential market throughout the second half of the year. The strong rental demand, particularly from mainland Chinese students and migrant workers, is bolstering this trend.

    Record Figures Demonstrate Investor Confidence

    From the beginning of the year to June, 654 buyers purchased two or more residences in the primary market. They bought a total of 1,794 flats with an estimated value of approximately HKD17.4 billion (US$2.2 billion). These numbers represent a significant increase from the previous year, effectively doubling and setting new records for buyer amounts, units sold, and the overall transaction value.

    Bulk buyers were responsible for about 14% of all primary home sales during this period. This means that approximately one in seven new flats was bought by purchasers acquiring a minimum of two units.

    A surge in purchases indicates a growing investor interest in rental properties. Hong Kong’s rental index reached a new high in June, making smaller apartments near educational institutions and transport hubs an attractive choice for investors.

    Increasing Appeal of Specific Developments

    The majority of bulk purchases were made in developments that were particularly well-suited to the rental market. Sun Hung Kai Properties’ Lime Spark in Tsuen Wan, which is a favored rental district with excellent transport links, had the most bulk transactions in June, with 29 deals covering 95 flats worth HKD669 million.

    Furthermore, Henderson Land Development’s Highwood in To Kwa Wan and One Victoria Cove in Hung Hom, both of which are near university campuses, recorded 16 and 13 bulk transactions, respectively. Together, these three developments accounted for approximately three-quarters of June’s bulk transactions.

    While most investors bought two units, 65 buyers purchased at least five homes and seven procured 10 or more. The most substantial single transaction in the first half of the year comprised an investor acquiring 16 flats in Highwood for over HKD111 million.

    In June, bulk-buying activity decreased as fewer projects were launched by developers. Nevertheless, bulk purchases are expected to pick up again in the third quarter as new projects are introduced and investor attention refocuses on the property market following global events such as the World Cup.

    Questions & Answers

    Why was there a surge in bulk home purchases in the first half of the year?
    The spike in purchases is primarily due to increased investor interest in rental properties, driven by robust demand from mainland Chinese students and migrant workers.

    What factors make certain properties more attractive to bulk buyers?
    Properties that are attractive to bulk buyers are typically smaller apartments near universities and transport hubs. Developments in popular rental districts with strong transport connections are especially appealing.

    What are the predictions for the third quarter of the year?
    Bulk purchases are expected to rise again in the third quarter as developers introduce new projects and investor attention shifts back to the property market. A boost in the stock market is also expected to support buying sentiment.

  • Global Tensions Fuel Surge in Vietnam’s Gasoline Prices

    Global Tensions Fuel Surge in Vietnam’s Gasoline Prices

    On Thursday, petrol prices in Vietnam saw a significant hike due to a surge in global fuel prices. The country’s most widely consumed fuel, E10 RON95, experienced a 4.28% price rise, bringing its cost to VND21,430 (US$0.81) per litre.

    There were similar increases across other types of fuel. Biofuel E5 RON92 saw a 5.35% increase, raising its price to VND20,880. Diesel prices saw the most substantial jump, with a 10.5% increase taking the cost to VND25,760 per litre.

    Global Market Trends

    These price hikes have been attributed to the shifting conditions of global fuel markets, which have been trending higher in recent times. The surge in global fuel prices has been exacerbated due to escalating political tensions and conflicts, including those between the U.S. and Iran. In addition, the maritime blockade declared by the Houthi movement in the Red Sea has also contributed to the upward price trends.

    The rise in international fuel prices has had a global impact. For instance, RON95 gasoline prices rose by 11.4% to $115.5 per barrel, while diesel saw a 10.8% increase, taking its price to $150.9 per barrel. Fuel oil, also known as mazut, also experienced a significant increase, climbing by 12.3% to a staggering $546.3 per ton.

    Questions & Answers

    What led to the increase in Vietnam’s fuel prices?
    The increase in fuel prices in Vietnam was a direct result of the surge in global fuel prices, which has been driven by escalating political tensions and conflicts.

    How much did the price of the most popular fuel in Vietnam increase?
    The price of E10 RON95, the most popular fuel in Vietnam, increased by 4.28% to VND21,430 (US$0.81) per litre.

    What are the current global market trends for fuel prices?
    Fuel prices are currently trending higher globally, mainly due to escalating political tensions and conflicts, including the U.S. and Iran conflict, and the maritime blockade declared by the Houthi movement in the Red Sea.

  • Surge in Durian Imports: Chinas Growing Craving Boosts Trade for Thailand and Malaysia

    Surge in Durian Imports: Chinas Growing Craving Boosts Trade for Thailand and Malaysia

    In the first half of 2026, China’s durian imports saw a significant increase of 47% compared to the previous year. This was largely due to surplus stock from Southeast Asian exporters, such as Thailand and Malaysia, following a decrease in durian prices. According to Chinese customs data, Thailand exported roughly US$3.79 billion worth of durians to China within this period, dominating 81% of the market share.

    The Durian Market

    Vietnam came in second in the durian export market throughout the first half of 2026, with exports reaching an estimated value of $846 million. This makes up 18% of the total durian imports into China. Despite this, Thailand’s durians remain a favorite among Chinese consumers, thanks to a robust logistics and quality-control system that effectively enhances the fruit’s reputation.

    Vietnam has also increased its durian exports to China since it received the green light to export fresh durians in 2022. However, some challenges were faced concerning quality control. Malaysia, a newcomer to China’s fresh durian market, exported roughly $30.26 million worth of the fruit within the first half of 2026, marking a whopping 342% increase compared to the same period the previous year.

    The Changing Durian Landscape

    In total, the volume of durian imports from all countries reached 1.07 million tonnes in the first half of 2026, increasing from 708,000 tonnes in the same period a year earlier. Factors such as improved services on the China-Laos Railway and the growth of Chinese e-commerce platforms have significantly boosted Southeast Asian durian exports to China, which is the world’s largest market and accounts for 90% of global durian consumption.

    Currently, durian producers like Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam are experiencing an oversupply due to the peak durian harvest season. This is a result of orchards reaching full production capacity and an output growth that surpasses demand.

    Despite the strong long-term demand from China, an imbalance has been noted where production has not expanded at the same pace as demand. This has resulted in a fall in durian prices during peak season. Officials in Malaysia are seeking permission from China’s General Administration of Customs to open a land-based shipping route in response to the oversupply.

    There has been a notable drop in durian prices in China, between 14% and 20%, due to factors such as increased supply from different origins, high inventories, and cautious consumer spending.

    Questions & Answers

    What caused the significant increase in China’s durian imports?
    There was a surplus of durians from Southeast Asian exporters due to a decrease in prices, leading to an increased supply to China.

    Which country is the largest exporter of durians to China?
    Thailand is the leading exporter, supplying approximately 81% of China’s durian imports in the first half of 2026.

    Why are durian prices falling in China?
    The decrease in durian prices in China can be attributed to increased supply from different countries, high inventories, and more conservative consumer spending.

  • Wealthy Families Go Global: UBS Reveals Surge in Diversification and AI Investment Strategies

    Wealthy Families Go Global: UBS Reveals Surge in Diversification and AI Investment Strategies

    Geopolitical uncertainties, economic recession concerns, and increasing skepticism around the supremacy of the U.S. dollar are leading to a shift in the investment strategies of affluent families globally. The new Global Family Office Report from UBS reveals that more family offices are considering strategic alterations to their portfolios than ever before.

    Investment Diversification Amid Global Uncertainties

    The report sheds light on how investors are adjusting their portfolios in response to geopolitical instabilities and structural risks. UBS’ survey, which involved 307 global family offices across over 30 markets, each with an average net worth of $2.7 billion, shows that 60% of respondents are planning to amend their strategic asset allocation within the next year. The focal point of this repositioning is wider diversification across regions, currencies, and asset types, along with an increased emphasis on long-term thematic investments.

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) remains a particularly attractive investment opportunity. The report finds that 65% of family offices have made investments throughout the entire AI value chain, spanning from data centers and software platforms to semiconductor manufacturers. Although valuations are high, many investors intend to boost or maintain their exposure in this arena.

    Investment Themes and Succession Planning Challenges

    Family offices are also showing keen interest in investments related to infrastructure, energy, and commodities, while cryptocurrencies are seen as a more niche allocation. The survey found that only 44% of invested family offices currently consider digital assets as part of their strategic asset allocation, with actual portfolio exposures remaining relatively modest.

    In terms of governance and succession planning, many family offices are falling short. The report shows that only about a third have a clearly defined succession plan, and just 27% are preparing the next generation in an organized manner for future leadership roles.

    Family offices in North Asia are leaning towards a technology-driven and globally diversified investment strategy, with 74% of their investments related to AI. Southeast Asian family offices are even more invested in AI, with 88% already invested in the sector.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the main investment focus of family offices according to the UBS report?
    The main focus is on broader diversification across regions, currencies, and asset types, along with an increased emphasis on long-term thematic investments, especially in Artificial Intelligence.

    How are family offices approaching the issue of succession planning?
    The report reveals that only about a third of family offices have a clearly defined succession plan in place, and just 27% are preparing the next generation for future leadership roles in an organized manner.

    What is the stance of family offices on cryptocurrencies?
    Cryptocurrencies are considered more of a niche allocation. Only 44% of the family offices that have made investments currently consider digital assets as part of their strategic asset allocation.

  • Vietnam Gold Rates Surge as Global Bullion Takes a Dip: U.S.-Iran Peace Talks Light Up Market Optimism

    Vietnam Gold Rates Surge as Global Bullion Takes a Dip: U.S.-Iran Peace Talks Light Up Market Optimism

    On Wednesday, there was an uptick in Vietnam’s gold prices as global bullion rates experienced a slight decrease. The gold bar price from Saigon Jewelry Company witnessed an increase of 0.87%, reaching VND174.5 million (US$6,626.79) per tael. This valuation was shared by other sellers in the market.

    Gold Ring Prices

    The increase in gold prices was not limited to gold bars alone. Gold ring prices also saw an increase, valuing at VND174.2 million per tael. To clarify, a tael equals to 37.5 grams or 1.2 ounces.

    Global Gold Prices

    On the international front, gold prices experienced a slight decrease on Wednesday. This followed an earlier one-month high, as the US dollar began to regain its strength. The possibility of another round of peace dialogues between the United States and Iran also contributed to an increased risk appetite.

    Spot gold decreased by 0.3%, standing at $4,828.07 per ounce after hitting its highest peak since March 18th earlier in the day. Meanwhile, U.S. gold futures for June delivery, remained steady at $4,851.30.

    Effect of Middle East Headlines

    Gold prices have been fluctuating in response to recent events in the Middle East, with hopes that the United States and Iran will soon engage in peace talks.

    There are indications that discussions to end the ongoing conflict in Iran could recommence in Pakistan in the next two days. This follows the recent unsuccessful negotiations, leading to the imposition of a blockade on Iranian ports by Washington.

    Week’s Gold Price Performance

    Despite the minor drawdown, gold prices have increased by 1.6% this week on the back of renewed optimism regarding peace talks between the U.S. and Iran.

    Questions & Answers

    What caused the increase in Vietnam’s gold prices?
    The increase was due to a decrease in global bullion rates.

    What were the gold prices for Saigon Jewelry Company and gold rings respectively?
    The gold bar price from Saigon Jewelry Company reached VND174.5 million (US$6,626.79) per tael, while gold ring prices valued at VND174.2 million per tael.

    What has been the week’s overall performance for gold prices?
    Despite a slight pullback, gold prices have increased by 1.6% this week on the back of renewed optimism regarding peace talks between the U.S. and Iran.

  • Vietnam’s Seafood Exports Surge by 8% in Q1 2026, Powered by Strong Chinese Demand

    Vietnam’s Seafood Exports Surge by 8% in Q1 2026, Powered by Strong Chinese Demand

    In the first quarter of 2026, Vietnam saw a nearly 8% increase in seafood exports, amounting to a substantial US$2.64 billion. A primary factor fueling this growth was robust demand from China.

    China’s Role in Vietnam’s Seafood Industry

    During this period, China remained the central seafood importer from Vietnam, with purchases amounting to approximately $764 million. This figure represents an almost 45% year-on-year increase. In March alone, the country’s seafood imports exceeded $250 million, a growth of over 50%. Not only is China the largest seafood importer, but it is also the biggest consumer of Vietnamese pangasius.

    The shrimp category witnessed significant growth, largely attributed to lobster exports. Despite this, exports of whiteleg shrimp, a key product in the U.S. and EU markets, remained consistent.

    Other seafood types, including crab, swimming crab, and molluscs, experienced increased demand across Asian markets. Moreover, tilapia exports skyrocketed by 190% year-on-year, reaching an estimated $35 million in the first quarter.

    The Impact of Other Markets

    China’s robust performance was instrumental in maintaining overall sectoral growth despite a drop in exports to several other markets. Seafood exports to the U.S. decreased by over 10% in the same quarter. This decline can be attributed to weak demand and technical barriers, including the Marine Mammal Protection Act’s Certificates of Analysis requirements and anti-dumping duties on shrimp. There was also a similar decline in exports to Japan and South Korea.

    While exports to the EU remained largely stable, those destined for ASEAN, Australia, and several emerging markets maintained their growth momentum.

    Driving Factors and Predictions

    According to Le Hang, the deputy secretary general of the association, several factors contributed to China’s emergence as the primary growth driver. These include seasonal consumption, steady demand, and advantageous logistics conditions.

    Increased consumption during the Lunar New Year boosted imports of whole shrimp, live seafood, and premium products. This seasonal surge contributed to a sharp increase in high-value items like lobster.

    Despite this growth, Hang warned that these figures may primarily reflect seasonal trends rather than a long-term structural recovery. This is because the increased exports were partly driven by stockpiling and festive demand, which could lead to a moderation of growth in the upcoming months.

    The seafood industry in Vietnam also faces intensifying competitive pressure, particularly from major suppliers like Ecuador. This competition underscores the need for diversification in Vietnam’s seafood industry.

    However, the association remains optimistic. They project that seafood exports will continue to grow in the second quarter, with shrimp and pangasius expected to be the primary growth drivers.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the value of Vietnam’s seafood exports in the first quarter of 2026?
    The value of Vietnam’s seafood exports in the first quarter of 2026 was US$2.64 billion.

    Who is the largest importer of Vietnamese seafood?
    China is the largest importer of Vietnamese seafood.

    What has been the impact of seasonal consumption on Vietnam’s seafood exports?
    Seasonal consumption, particularly during the Lunar New Year, has led to a surge in imports of various seafood items, contributing to the overall growth in Vietnam’s seafood exports.

  • Hong Kong Retail Sales Skyrocket by 19%: A Decade of Growth Boosted by Surge in Visitor Numbers

    Hong Kong Retail Sales Skyrocket by 19%: A Decade of Growth Boosted by Surge in Visitor Numbers

    February saw a significant upswing in Hong Kong’s retail sales, with a 19.3 per cent surge compared to the same month in the previous year. This marks a full 10 months of consistent gains, demonstrating the robust health of the retail sector.

    Broad-Based Growth Across Retail Outlets

    A variety of retail outlets experienced growth in February, according to government data. In fact, the month’s surge was the most substantial since June 2023, when retail sales saw a 19.5 per cent increase. Prior months also showed steady growth, with a 5.5 per cent rise in January and a 6.6 per cent hike in December’s retail sales.

    An official spokesperson for the government anticipates the trend to continue, citing the local economy’s resilient growth and an increase in inbound visitors as key supporting factors for retail businesses.

    High-End Goods and Clothing Sales on the Rise

    Certain sectors saw particularly notable increases in February. Jewelry, watches, clocks, and other valuable gifts experienced a 24.2 per cent spike, following a 31.1 per cent increase in January. Meanwhile, sales of clothing, footwear, and related products also rose by 14.1 per cent, emerging from a marginal 0.2 per cent rise in January.

    Retail Sales Growth in Volume Terms

    Viewed in terms of volume, retail sales in February soared 17.5 per cent from the same period last year, a significant leap compared to January’s revised rise of 3.5 per cent. This is the largest percentage gain observed since March 2023, which experienced a staggering 39.3 per cent increase.

    Spike in Visitor Arrivals

    The Hong Kong Tourism Board reported a 40.2 per cent increase in visitor arrivals in February, totalling 5.14 million, compared to the same month last year. The number of visitors from Mainland China saw an even more dramatic rise, skyrocketing by 53.4 per cent to reach 4.25 million.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the percentage growth in Hong Kong’s retail sales in February?
    Hong Kong’s retail sales grew by 19.3 per cent in February.

    Which sectors experienced significant sales increases in February?
    Sectors that saw significant sales increases included jewelry, watches, clocks, and valuable gifts, along with clothing, footwear, and related products.

    How much did the visitor arrival number increase in February, according to the Hong Kong Tourism Board?
    The Hong Kong Tourism Board reported a 40.2 per cent increase in visitor arrivals in February.

  • U.S. Dollar Ascends to Year’s High Against Key Currencies Amid Oil Price Surge & Inflation Fears

    U.S. Dollar Ascends to Year’s High Against Key Currencies Amid Oil Price Surge & Inflation Fears

    The United States dollar achieved a rise against the Vietnamese dong on Thursday morning, while concurrently reaching peak levels this year against other major currencies. The Vietnamese bank, Vietcombank, increased the dollar’s rate by 0.01%, setting it at VND26,314.

    Greenback Performance in the Informal Market

    In contrast to its performance with Vietcombank, the US dollar, informally known as the greenback, recorded a slight decline of 0.18% on the informal market, bringing it down to VND27,910.

    The Dollar’s Global Strength

    On the international front, the greenback maintained its position as a safe-haven currency, staying close to its most robust levels of the year. This strength comes in the wake of rising oil prices, which threaten to trigger inflation and compel central banks worldwide to adopt a more bullish policy stance.

    Performance Against Other Currencies

    The euro experienced a minor fall of 0.1% against the greenback, with an early Asian trading rate of $1.1549, which is nearing its lowest level since November.

    Japan’s yen also saw a decline, dipping below the 159-per-dollar mark, with a decrease of up to 0.2% to 159.23. This trend brings the yen close to its weakest level since July 2024.

    Meanwhile, the Australian dollar and the New Zealand dollar each fell by 0.1%, recorded at $0.7148 and $0.5907 respectively.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the performance of the US dollar against the Vietnamese dong?
    The US dollar rose against the Vietnamese dong on Thursday morning.

    How did the greenback perform on the informal market?
    On the informal market, the greenback recorded a slight decline of 0.18%.

    How has the rise in oil prices affected the US dollar?
    The rising oil prices threaten to trigger inflation, which in turn has kept the US dollar close to its strongest levels this year as central banks worldwide may be compelled to adopt a more bullish policy stance.

  • DFI Retail Group Triumphs with 35% Profit Surge Amid Strategic Overhaul – An In-depth Look at the 2025 Fiscal Year

    DFI Retail Group Triumphs with 35% Profit Surge Amid Strategic Overhaul – An In-depth Look at the 2025 Fiscal Year

    DFI Retail Group, a prominent pan-Asian retailer, has confirmed the efficacy of its ongoing strategic alterations, following a successful 2025 fiscal year. The group reported a substantial 35% increase in underlying profits to US$270 million, despite no growth in its year-end revenue stream, which remained consistent with the 2024 figure at $8.8 billion.

    Strategic Execution and Profitability

    The robust financial performance and enhanced shareholder returns in 2025 have been attributed to the effective implementation of strategic initiatives. DFI Retail Group’s Chairman, Lincoln Pan, emphasized that this was achieved despite the challenging circumstances in the retail industry. Significant strides in portfolio simplification have notably increased the group’s investment capabilities. This shift has facilitated the prioritization of strategic initiatives, providing greater value for customers and paving the way for sustainable growth and returns through accretive inorganic opportunities.

    Portfolio Adjustments and Performance

    In an effort to adapt to changing market conditions and consumer preferences, DFI Retail Group has made adjustments to its brand portfolios. As part of this strategy, 7-Eleven, one of the group’s brands, has shifted its focus towards higher-margin, non-cigarette categories. Ready-to-eat offerings now account for 24% of convenience sales for the brand in 2025, highlighting a considerable change in product focus.

    Financial Performance

    The group’s strong financial performance is also reflected in its operating cash flow. After making lease payments, the operating cash flow for the group stood at $430 million, marking a 30% increase from the previous year. In addition, the group’s free cash flow saw a remarkable year-on-year increase of 78%.

    Questions & Answers

    What were the underlying profits for DFI Retail Group in the fiscal year 2025?
    In the fiscal year 2025, DFI Retail Group reported underlying profits of US$270 million.

    What strategical changes did 7-Eleven, a brand under DFI Retail Group, adopt in 2025?
    7-Eleven shifted its focus towards higher-margin, non-cigarette categories. Ready-to-eat offerings constituted 24% of the brand’s convenience sales.

    How did the operating cash flow of DFI Retail Group fare in 2025?
    After lease payments, DFI Retail Group’s operating cash flow in 2025 stood at $430 million, which was a 30% increase from the previous year.

  • DBS Wealth Management Hits Record-Breaking Asset Surge in 2025

    DBS Wealth Management Hits Record-Breaking Asset Surge in 2025

    DBS’ wealth management business achieved remarkable success in 2025, setting records in both assets under management and net new assets.

    Unprecedented Growth

    According to the bank’s Chief Financial Officer, assets under management soared by 19 percent, reaching an all-time high of S$488 billion ($384 billion). This significant growth was fueled by a remarkable S$39 billion in net new assets, also a record in the bank’s history.

    Rising Revenue

    DBS’ wealth business also reported its highest ever income, which increased by 9 percent to reach S$5.7 billion. Non-interest income saw an impressive surge of 27 percent, amounting to S$3.3 billion. The wealth management division played a major role in the bank’s revenue generation, contributing substantially to both fee income and treasury sales.

    Profitable Performance

    Overall, the bank’s pre-tax profit marginally climbed, setting a new benchmark at S$13.1 billion. This highlights DBS’ consistently strong and profitable performance, even in the face of uncertain market conditions.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the increase in DBS’ assets under management in 2025?
    In 2025, DBS’ assets under management rose by 19 percent, achieving a record high of S$488 billion ($384 billion).

    What was the total income for DBS’ wealth business in 2025?
    In 2025, DBS’ wealth business registered its highest income ever at S$5.7 billion, marking a 9 percent increase.

    What was the total pre-tax profit for DBS in 2025?
    DBS reported a pre-tax profit of S$13.1 billion in 2025, marking a new high in the bank’s history.

  • Hong Kong Retail Boom: December Sales Surge in 8th Consecutive Monthly Increase

    Hong Kong Retail Boom: December Sales Surge in 8th Consecutive Monthly Increase

    In December, retail sales in Hong Kong rose by 6.6% compared to the previous year, marking the eighth consecutive month of growth. This trend indicates a steady economic recovery in the region, according to recent government data.

    This increase amounted to a total of HK$35 billion (US$4.48 billion) in retail sales. In November, there was a similar rise in retail sales, with a 6.5% year-on-year increase.

    Retail Sales Volume

    In terms of volume, December’s retail sales saw a 5.1% increase from the previous year, showing a slight acceleration compared to the 4.4% rise witnessed in November.

    Looking forward, the value of total retail sales in 2025 is projected to rise by 1% from the previous year. Meanwhile, the volume is expected to remain at a similar level as compared to 2024.

    Consumer Sentiment and Tourism

    A government spokesperson highlighted the positive local consumption sentiment, backed by robust economic growth momentum. Coupled with the continued surge in inbound visitors, this is expected to support the retail businesses in the region.

    Tourist arrivals in December saw a significant upturn, with 4.65 million visitors, a 9.2% increase from the previous year, according to data from the Hong Kong Tourism Board.

    Mainland Chinese visitors made up the majority of these arrivals, accounting for 3.35 million. This represents an 8.2% increase year-on-year.

    Sales Across Various Retail Sectors

    In December, certain retail sectors saw remarkable growth. Sales of jewellery, watches, clocks, and valuable gifts surged by 14.3% year-on-year, a significant jump from the 3.6% rise in November.

    However, not all sectors experienced growth. The sales of clothing, footwear, and allied products fell by 10.3% year-on-year in December, despite a 2% increase in November.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the percentage increase in retail sales in Hong Kong in December?

    In December, retail sales in Hong Kong increased by 6.6% compared to the same period in the previous year.

    What is the projected increase in the value of total retail sales in 2025?

    The value of total retail sales in 2025 is projected to increase by 1% from the previous year.

    How did the sales of jewellery, watches, clocks, and valuable gifts perform in December?

    In December, sales of jewellery, watches, clocks, and valuable gifts surged by 14.3% year-on-year.

  • Record-Breaking Silver Prices in Vietnam Surge Amid Global Safe-Haven Demand

    Record-Breaking Silver Prices in Vietnam Surge Amid Global Safe-Haven Demand

    On Monday morning, silver prices in Vietnam hit an all-time high as global demand for safe-haven assets surged. The price of Phu Quy silver jumped 6% to VND4.24 million (US$162) per tael, equivalent to VND112.8 million per kilogram.

    Silver Prices Surge in Vietnam

    Since the start of the year, the cost of this white metal in Vietnam has seen an increase of 35%. This rise parallels a global trend, where the price of spot silver increased by 4.57% to $107.65 per ounce. This sharp increase comes after it hit an unprecedented high of $108.60 per ounce. The escalation can be attributed to investors seeking refuge in safe-haven assets due to escalating geopolitical uncertainties.

    Silver Crosses the $100 Mark

    On Friday, silver prices exceeded the $100 mark for the first time ever. This rise builds on last year’s significant increase of 147%. The astounding growth is a result of an influx of retail investors and momentum-driven purchases, exacerbating a longstanding period of scarcity in the physical markets for silver.

    Questions & Answers

    What is a safe-haven asset?
    A safe-haven asset is a type of investment that is expected to hold or increase its value during market turbulence. These assets are typically sought after by investors to limit their exposure to losses during market downturns.

    What caused the surge in silver prices in Vietnam?
    The surge in silver prices in Vietnam can be attributed to an increase in global demand for safe-haven assets, as well as geopolitical uncertainties.

    What factors contributed to silver prices crossing the $100 mark?
    The surge beyond the $100 mark was driven by an influx of retail investors and momentum-driven purchases, which intensified an already present scarcity in the physical markets for silver.

  • Burberry Sees Remarkable Christmas Sales Boost, Thanks to Chinese Market Surge

    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.

  • New Zealand Dairy Farmers Rejoice: Global Demand Triggers a 6.3% Surge in Dairy Prices

    New Zealand Dairy Farmers Rejoice: Global Demand Triggers a 6.3% Surge in Dairy Prices

    Cattle farmers in New Zealand have been given a much-needed boost as the Global Dairy Trade (GDT) announced a rise in pricing in its most recent index.

    On the 6th of January, the GDT conducted its latest auction, which resulted in dairy prices experiencing a 6.3% surge. Leading the pack were whole milk prices, which showed a 7.2% jump. This was followed by skim milk, which increased by 5.4%, and finally, butter, which saw a 3.8% upturn.

    After reaching a peak in early March of 2025, dairy prices had been on a steady decline. The current upward trend is a response to an increase in demand, according to the GDT.

    The GDT holds its sales events bi-monthly, attracting an international pool of bidders. These events are an opportunity for the GDT to implement its ‘price discovery process’. This complex mechanism calculates accurate price levels for global dairy products by considering factors such as supply, demand, and bidding.

    New Zealand’s primary export remains dairy products. The country’s largest dairy markets are China, Australia, and the United States.

    Questions & Answers

    How much did dairy prices increase in the latest GDT auction?
    Dairy prices rose by 6.3% in the most recent GDT auction. Whole milk saw the largest increase with a 7.2% surge, followed by skim milk at 5.4% and butter at 3.8%.

    What is the ‘price discovery process’ implemented by the GDT?
    The ‘price discovery process’ is a sophisticated system used by the GDT to determine accurate price levels for the world’s dairy products. It takes into account factors like supply, demand, and bidding.

    What are New Zealand’s largest dairy export markets?
    New Zealand’s most substantial dairy export markets are China, Australia, and the United States.

  • Auto Sales Surge 6.5% in 2025: Imported Vehicles Steal the Spotlight

    Auto Sales Surge 6.5% in 2025: Imported Vehicles Steal the Spotlight

    In the first eleven months of 2025, the total auto sales of leading automobile manufacturers reached 328,669 units, marking a 6.5% increase from the same period the previous year. Interestingly, despite a 3% drop in the sales of domestically assembled vehicles, the sales of fully imported vehicles (CBU) soared by 17%, indicating a shift in market preferences and supply trends.

    Monthly Breakdown

    In November alone, the members of the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (VAMA) report a sale of 39,338 vehicles. This reflects a 4% increase from October, albeit an 11% decrease compared to November the previous year.

    Out of the total vehicles sold in November, 28,557 were passenger vehicles, a 5% increase from October. Sales of commercial vehicles reached 10,273 units, marking a 1% increase, while sales of specialised-purpose vehicles fell to 488 units, a 3% decrease.

    Locally Assembled vs Imported Vehicles

    Sales of domestically assembled vehicles increased by 7% to 18,370 units in November, while the sale of imported CBU vehicles slightly rose by 1% to 20,968 units. This November concluded the ninth consecutive month in which VAMA members reported higher sales of imported cars than locally manufactured ones.

    Vehicle Categories

    In terms of vehicle types, the combined sales of sedans, SUVs, crossovers, and MPVs hit 24,604 units in November. SUVs retained their top position as the most popular vehicle type, with 9,870 units sold, indicating a consistent demand for high-clearance models. Brands such as Lexus, Thaco Premium, and Peugeot also recorded positive sales for several of their key models.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the total auto sales figure for major manufacturers in the first eleven months of 2025?
    The total auto sales figure for leading manufacturers in this period is 328,669 vehicles.

    What trends are observed in the sales of domestically assembled and imported vehicles?
    While the sales of domestically assembled vehicles fell by 3%, the sales of fully imported vehicles saw a significant rise of 17%.

    Which vehicle category proved to be the most popular?
    SUVs maintained their popularity, emerging as the best-selling category with 9,870 units sold.