Shareholders approve XLSMART merger, Axiata and Sinar Mas Set to advance regional collaboration

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  • Both parties signed LOIs to deepen collaboration across MY, ID & SEA
  • Following the merger, Axiata & Sinar Mas will each hold a 34.8% stake in XLSMART

Left to Right: Vivek Sood, appointed commissioner of XLSMART/Group CEO of Axiata Group, Arsjad Rasyid P.M., appointed president commissioner of XLSMART, Franky O. Widjaja, chairman of Sinar Mas Telecommunications & Technology, Rajeev Sethi, appointed president director & CEO of XLSMART) and Antony Susilo, appointed director & CFO of XLSMART at the media conference in Jakarta yesterday to announce shareholders’ approval on the XL Axiata-Smartfren merger.

Axiata Group Berhad and Sinar Mas have jointly announced that shareholders of PT XL Axiata Tbk (XL Axiata), PT Smartfren Telecom Tbk (Smartfren), and PT Smart Telcom (SmartTel) have formally approved the merger of the three companies, marking a significant milestone in Indonesia’s telecommunications sector.

In a statement, the companies said the approval was secured following extraordinary general meetings of shareholders (EGMS) held on 25 March 2025 by XL Axiata, Smartfren, and SmartTel. This follows prior in-principle regulatory approvals from Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs and the approval of the Indonesia Stock Exchange and Financial Services Authority, further solidifying institutional support for the strategic consolidation, they added.

The approval signifies the confidence of shareholders in the combined potential of XL Axiata and Smartfren, reinforcing their commitment to driving a more integrated, efficient, and innovative telecommunications industry. With this shareholder endorsement, XLSMART will continue the important roles played by XL Axiata and Smartfren in Indonesia’s development via the critical telecommunications industry. Combining XL Axiata’s extensive infrastructure and reach with Smartfren’s digital innovation, XLSMART is better able to serve consumers and businesses in the era of digitalisation.

With a subscriber base exceeding 94.3 million, annual projected revenue of US$2.76 billion (RM12.24 billion), and an EBITDA of US$1.35 billion (RM6 billion), XLSMART is well-positioned to lead the next phase of growth in Indonesia’s telecommunications sector. The landmark merger is also set to realise significant cost synergies, with an estimated annual run-rate pre-tax synergies of US$300 million (RM1.3 billion) to US$400 million (RM1.7 billion) post-integration completion.

Following the completion of the merger, Axiata Group and Sinar Mas will become the joint controlling shareholders, with each holding a 34.8% stake in XLSMART, with equal influence over its strategic direction and decisions.

To strengthen the collaboration beyond XLSMART, Axiata and Sinar Mas, on 28 January 2025, signed two letters of intent (LOIs) at a ceremony witnessed by Malaysian prime minister Anwar Ibrahim and the president of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto at the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur. This coincides with Malaysia’s role as the chair of Asean, a position that allows the country to influence the regional agenda and drive collective objectives.

These LOIs laid the groundwork for deeper collaboration between the two companies, focusing on potential synergies in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Southeast Asia. The agreement envisioned joint efforts in advanced 5G solutions, enterprise services, digital infrastructure, and fintech innovations, supporting the broader goal of accelerating digital transformation across the region. The shareholder approvals mark a critical step forward in realising that vision and advancing strategic cooperation between the two companies.

As part of the newly formed company’s leadership, Rajeev Sethi has been appointed as president director and CEO, supported by a robust executive team that includes nine directors and nine commissioners, ensuring a well-balanced representation from both XL Axiata and Smartfren. Rajeev has extensive and successful experience in transforming telecommunications companies in emerging markets that will help XLSMART to realise its synergy values, and was previously the CEO at Robi Axiata Bangladesh.

The integration of these leadership teams also reflects the company’s focus on operational excellence, strategic growth, and synergy-driven transformation. XLSMART will focus on expanding network coverage, enhancing service quality, and driving digital innovation, while also unlocking opportunities in mobile broadband, enterprise services, and emerging digital technologies to meet the evolving needs of Indonesia’s telecommunications market. The merged entity will combine Axiata’s regional expertise and deep experience in managing integrated operations with the local knowledge and established presence of Sinar Mas, creating a larger, financially robust organisation.

Franky Oesman Widjaja, chairman of Sinar Mas Telecommunications and Technology, emphasised the significance of this merger in strengthening Indonesia’s digital economy. “We believe this consolidation is a crucial step toward creating a more robust telecommunications industry in Indonesia. By combining XL Axiata’s solid infrastructure with Smartfren’s customer-focused digital services, XLSMART will offer enhanced connectivity solutions that empower consumers and businesses while supporting the nation’s long-term digital aspirations.”

“We are excited for the opportunity to drive meaningful progress for Indonesia’s digital economy, ensuring that our customers, partners, and stakeholders benefit from increased efficiency, broader coverage, and superior service quality,” he added.

Meanwhile, Vivek Sood, group CEO of Axiata Group, highlighted the broader impact of the transaction. “This merger marks a defining moment in Indonesia’s digital landscape. The confidence of our shareholders in approving this transaction underscores our vision to build a stronger, more resilient telecommunications entity that delivers value through scale, efficiency, and innovation. With XLSMART, we are poised to enhance customer experience, expand digital services, and contribute to the growth of Indonesia’s digital economy.”

“This merger is not only about combining two businesses but about creating a new, forward-looking company that will set benchmarks in innovation, service quality, and operational excellence. We believe this business combination will allow for the improved financial health of the industry, and we are confident XLSMART will emerge as a formidable player—enabling us to significantly accelerate investments in digital infrastructure and innovation, and ultimately empower communities,” he added.

According to the parties, the transition towards XLSMART will be carefully managed to ensure a seamless integration for customers, employees, and partners. The company will prioritise a smooth operational transition while maintaining service reliability and customer satisfaction. Three brands (XL, Smartfren, and Axis), which are well-positioned in their respective customer segments and complementary, will continue. Over the coming months, Axiata and Sinar Mas will work closely to align business operations, optimise network infrastructure, and explore new service offerings that capitalise on the strengths of the merged entity.

Beyond the business integration, the formation of XLSMART represents a deeper strategic collaboration between Malaysia and Indonesia in the digital economy sector. As two of Southeast Asia’s largest economies, Malaysia and Indonesia share a common vision of fostering digital inclusion, enhancing connectivity, and leveraging technology as a key driver of economic growth.

The partnership between Axiata and Sinar Mas is a testament to this shared ambition, demonstrating how cross-border collaborations can create value not just for businesses but for entire economies. Through this merger, both companies are setting a new standard for regional telecommunications partnerships, integrating expertise, resources, and infrastructure to deliver innovative and customer-centric solutions. Furthermore, this collaboration aligns with the broader national and regional digital economy agendas, ensuring that the telecommunications sector remains a key enabler of economic progress.

As Indonesia and Malaysia continue to strengthen their economic ties, this partnership stands as a model for future corporate alliances that transcend borders, creating a more interconnected, competitive, and sustainable digital ecosystem. With XLSMART, Axiata and Sinar Mas reaffirm their commitment to fostering stronger corporate partnerships that drive innovation, support national digital agendas, and contribute to Southeast Asia’s growing role as a global digital powerhouse.

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Paetongtarn lays down tax challenge

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The criticism is welcome to ask for an investigation into home transactions, according to PM.

PUBLISHED: 25 Mar 2025 at 21: 06

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra speaks to reporters prior to the opening of the no-confidence debate at parliament in Bangkok on Monday. (Photo: Reuters)
Prior to the start of the no-confidence conversation at the Bangkok parliament on Monday, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addresses writers. ( Photo: Reuters )

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra pushed the opposition to file a complaint with the Revenue Department on Tuesday asking them to stop paying the 218.7 million ringgit estate taxes.

Ms. Paetongtarn told an audience of writers outside parliament that she was unconcerned with the opponent’s prepare to file a complaint with the tax agency and launch an ethics research.

” Go ahead and following the process so that everything is crystal obvious,” she urged. ” As for myself, I have often followed all the rules and restrictions. We welcome any inquiry. I knew when I entered elections that I would face inquiries.

Women’s Party MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn accused Ms. Paetongtarn of avoiding inheritance taxes of 218.7 million baht by&nbsp and accepting stocks for 4.43 billion ringgit from family members on Monday.

Bank notes were issued for pay, but Mr. Wiroj inquired as to why they did not specify a payment deadline and were interest-free.

The director-general of the Revenue Department, Pinsai Suraswadi, stated on Tuesday that the Civil and Commercial Code permits promissory notes to describe a repayment period and may or may not contain an interest rate.

However, it must be clearly stated on the word if interest is charged.

The owner is responsible for paying taxes when selling stock on the secondary market. According to Mr. Pinsai, salary is only recognized when a personal income tax is paid when it is paid in full in money.

Tax may get paid when the statement is paid in cash if shares are sold using bank information. In this situation, it is well known that Ms. Paetongtarn may receive a cash payment in 2026, which means that the recipient has factor this income into their 2026 tax calculations when preparing a return in 2027.

The receipt of the bank note does not affect the tax until it is received.

This type of revenue falls under Category 4, which is subject to withholding income at a liberal price and must also be taken into account in the citizen’s general progressive income tax analysis.

Mr. Pinsai emphasized that these revenue laws have been in place since before 1987. He continued,” The division has consistently applied the money rule in all circumstances.”

Mr. Wiroj responded by saying that the government is awaiting more information from the top regarding the note and the tax payment for the upcoming year.

The Revenue Department needs to know whether such deals are commonplace in organization as the top claimed and whether they are legitimate for dealing in anonymity.

He stated that he intends to fully address the problem to the Revenue Department for immediate clarity.

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US building walls while China erecting windmills – Asia Times

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For the annual China Development Forum ( CDF), thousands of foreign CEOs are gathered in Beijing this week.

Beijing is communicating to the universe that the country’s second-largest market is open for business as the US pursues protectionist” America First” policies in the face of heightened global doubt.

The Taiwanese government has repeatedly reaffirmed its commitment to boosting the country’s economy. Its most recent federal labor report, which was released in March, provides clear recommendations for high-standard starting up and improving the business environment for foreign traders.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang once more urged for greater cooperation at the CDF. It is more important for countries to start up their markets and businesses to withstand risks and challenges in today’s increasingly scattered earth with rising volatility and uncertainty, Li said.

However, “opening up” risks turning out to be an empty promise without going beyond company offers.

Chinese politicians intend to tell the world that in contrast to “high surfaces,” the nation is taking concrete steps to attract foreign investments as part of meetings with foreign company officials at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse this year.

China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng reaffirmed the country’s business potential and sincerity in his meeting with Apple, Pfizer, Mastercard, Cargill, and others on Sunday ( March 23 ).

China’s efforts to improve the business culture reflect its kindness. In March, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce announced that roundtable discussions have addressed more than 500 concerns for foreign-funded businesses.

China has so far given the right to get value-added communications services for 13 foreign-invested businesses. Moreover, three new hospitals that are completely owned by foreigners have received approval to run in addition to the over 40 foreign-funded biotechnology projects that have been launched.

According to a survey conducted by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade in January, nearly 90 % of Chinese firms are “very satisfied” or “relatively happy” with the country’s total business culture last year.

The surveyed businesses scored China’s business culture with a 4.37 out of 5, which is an improvement of 2.1 percent points over the same period in 2023.

While some American politicians have been working to avert multinational corporations and businesses from China while citing national security concerns, it is interesting to see how global investors are acting against their president’s wishes.

A impressive number of American business leaders, including Tim Cook of Apple, Albert Bourla of Pfizer, and Rajesh Subramaniam of FedEx, have signed up for the two-day event in Beijing despite Washington’s price strain, in an ostensible display of their excitement for the Chinese market.

The customer moves very quickly in this industry. The customer is the one who is the most technologically engaged. And as we respond to the needs of this customer with technology, we are better equipped to provide those improvements to the rest of the world, according to Joanne Crevoiserat, CEO of US-based Tapestry, in an appointment with CGTN.

Stock market prices reflect investment preferences. The MSCI China Index marked its best start of the year, rising 19 % as of March 9 as per a report from investment bank Goldman Sachs, despite the US stock market’s catastrophic decline in March, which saw a staggering$ 5.28 trillion in value loss in just three weeks.

The change in investment opinion is certainly unexpected. Washington is pushing for economic dispersion through restrictions, taxes, and other trade barriers in order to make America “great” once more.

Under the” America First” philosophy, the Donald Trump administration is heading even further down the path of protectionism. China has, in comparison, shown signs of support for free trade and foreign funding.

According to a proverb,” When the winds of change punch, some build rooms, while others build turbines,” The two biggest economies of the world are making different decisions between walls and windmills, according to international investors.

Their decisions about putting money in China and removing it from the US are also influenced by this.

Jianxi Liu is a contributor to Chinese media publications including Global Times, CGTN, and other countries and an analyst of political and international relations based in Beijing.

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Statement of appreciation by Bolt, FastGig, foodpanda, GoGet, Grab, Halo Delivery, Kiddocare, Lalamove, and ShopeeFood

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  • The businesses pledged aid for a fairer regulation platform.
  • expressed interest in planes, data sharing, and support through speech.

The Indonesian government has approved of further enhancing the Gig Workers Bill, thanks to a speech from Bolt, FastGig, foodpanda, GoGet, Grab, Kiddocare, Lalamove, and ShopeeFood. They claimed that this choice reflects the government’s dedication to developing policies that would be beneficial to gig workers and the modern business.

The events expressed gratitude for the Ministry’s willingness to work with gig workers and business players to ensure that the Bill is realistic, viable, and in line with job work’s realities. They continued, stating that by working together, gig workers can be protected while creating opportunities for creativity, competition, and opportunities for all.

The parties are prepared to support the government through constructive speech, data sharing, and aircraft initiatives as platforms in Malaysia partner with over a million job workers. They reiterated their suggestion to make:

Effect research and feasibility study involving direct suggestions from gig workers and business players to evaluate the practicality of key procedures.

A regulated platform – A controlled environment where innovative measures are tested, tweaked, and ensured that the Bill is useful, green, fair, and beneficial to both job workers and the ecosystem.

The parties reiterated their dedication to working with the government to create a healthy regulatory model. They stated as a growing industry that they are not opposed to the Gig Workers Bill but that they are committed to making sure its implementation and laws are carefully considered and carefully thought out.

We are aware that the economy depends on good treatment of gig workers because they deserve and are satisfied with the way a vibrant and creative ecosystem is created. Our long-term objectives are to establish protection that support the continued expansion of Malaysia’s digital economy while also protecting gig workers ‘ lives.

The gig economy is becoming increasingly important to a growing modern society as the concept of work changes. It encourages freedom, creativity, and entrepreneurialism, enabling people to work in a variety of settings. These businesses, collectively, want to ensure that Malaysia continues to be a leader in the international gig economy and that gig workers are protected, platforms are given the freedom to develop.

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Cold Storage: From its beginnings in 1900s Singapore to being sold to a Malaysian company in 2025

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SINGAPORE: For 120 times, Cold Storage has been a family name in Singapore. The string of supermarkets is now gearing up for a new book.

Malaysian retail group Macrovalue announced on Monday ( Mar 24 ) that it would buy Giant and Cold Storage&nbsp in a deal worth S$ 125 million ( US$ 93 million ).

CNA examines the development of Cold Storage, documenting its transition from a small retail facility to one of the nation’s most well-known retailer companies.

1903: Formation

The Singapore Cold Storage Company, the country’s oldest retailer chain, was established on Jun 8, 1903, according to an article published by the National Library Board.

It was a pioneer in Malaya in this area and its name suggests that it was founded as a company that specialized in the storage and distribution of frozen foods and consumables.

1905: Opening its second retail location on Orchard Road.

On March 24, 1905, Cold Storage opened its first financial location on Orchard Road, where customers could purchase frozen meats, poultry, and dairy goods imported from Queensland, Australia.

The goods ‘ first sale was kept in a 400-tonne stored facility in Keppel Harbour.

Produces Paradise snow milk in 1923.

The second company to produce ice cream in Singapore was Cold Storage two years after its establishment.

The National University of Singapore’s ice milk product was originally known as Paradise, but it was later renamed Magnolia, which is still popular in Singapore now.

1930s: Launches the second tropical dairy farm in the world.

In Singapore in the late 1930s, the National Parks Board established the first tropic dairy farm in the world.

The company’s next managing producer, Fred Heron, wanted to raise the standard of milk in Singapore by putting it on a 24-hectare plot of land in a forest.

24 Friesian calves were originally brought in from the Netherlands and Australia.

Dairy Farm Road and Dairy Farm Nature Park are the names of the land, which closed in the 1970s.

Introduces Singapore’s second self-service mall in 1959

Cool Storage remained in operation through World War II, and its Orchard Road location became a self-service mall in 1959 in a second for Singapore.

Cool Storage was also well-known for its Magnolia ice cream, cake, and milkshake bars, which were also made in this time.

The Capitol Building’s Magnolia Breakfast Bar was a notable store. The Straits Times reported on its shutdown in 1988, stating that it has for more than 40 years been a “favorite haunt of individuals, courting people, and travellers likewise.”

1987: Provides a recognizable National Day music as a sponsor.

We Are Singapore was a 1987 music that Cold Storage promoted on social media to celebrate its 116th day in 2019.

The song was referred to as” a gift from the Cold Storage Group of companies” by the National Library Board.

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Thai PM Paetongtarn insists she acquired shares, land legitimately

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PUBLISHED: 24 Mar 2025 at 18: 41

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra speaks during the censure debate at parliament in Bangkok on Monday. (Photo: Pattarapong Chatpattarasill)
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addresses the lawmakers in Bangkok on Monday during the condemnation conversation. Pattarapong Chatpattarasill ( Photo )

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra insisted during the opponent’s criticism of her at parliament that her refusal to pay taxes on the billions of bass received from her family and friends was unrelated, and that her relatives had legally acquired the great Alpine golf training and real estate in Pathum Thani state.

When the condemnation conversation, which targeted her alone, started on Monday, Ms. Paetongtarn was responding to complaints from the criticism.

Opposition MPs accused her of avoiding inheritance taxes by accepting shares for 4.43 billion from her family and friends for a sum totaling 218.7 million ringgit.

The opposition claimed that Ms. Paetongtarn allegedly avoided paying the tax by claiming to have purchased the stock from relatives and issuing bank information for them as a payment method. The criticism asked her why the interest-free bank records did not have a repayment time.

The opposition claimed that Pathum Thani province’s Alpine golf course and real estate, which covers about 900 acres of land, were formerly a gift from a temple. A religious area plot may not be given to a individual. The opposition questioned the legitimacy of the property ownership by the excellent leader’s Shinawatra home at Alpine Golf and Sports Club.

During the condemnation conversation, Ms. Paetongtarn said,” Although I am younger than you, I am certain that my duty payment is higher than yours,” which was seemingly referring to the criticism members who raised the issue of her share approval from relatives and accused her of tax avoidance.

She claimed years ago when she was unable to pay in cash, she was prompted to challenge the promissory notes because the promote reception was intended for restructuring purposes. Ms. Paetongtarn stated that she intended to pay for the shares in installments and that the bank note payment may begin the following year.

Restructuring is typical, they say. The prime minister remarked that anyone who conducts business may be familiar with bank notes.

Ms. Paetongtarn claimed that her relatives just purchased the land narratives with title deeds in relation to the Alpine property dispute, which occurred when she was 11 years older.

I don’t want to talk about any sensitive subjects in a way that causes section or confusion in society. We are the newest technology who are ready to speak. Anyone who has accomplishments merits praise and spiritual aid because, at least, we are Thai, the prime minister said.

When asked about the communicate understanding problem, People’s Party MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn responded that he was certain that about 60 million Thai citizens paid less in fees than the prime minister.

However, taxes transaction is a requirement under the law and the constitution. They are treated equally with dignity, he claimed, regardless of how much money is spent by the citizens.

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Govt ‘still pursuing’ Land Bridge project

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PUBLISHED: 24 Mar 2025 at 17: 09

An artist's interpretation of a deep-sea port in the land bridge project. (Photo supplied)
The area gate project’s deep-sea interface is interpreted by an artist. ( Photo provided )

Suriya Jungrangreangkit, the secretary of travel, confirms that China and other Middle Eastern nations are interested in the Land Bridge venture that connects the Gulf of Thailand to the Andaman Sea.

Mr. Suriya, who is also a deputy prime minister, stated on Monday that the state is still working toward the 1 trillion-baht premier project.

The minister recently held an international show to show potential investors how the venture is being promoted.

Middle Eastern and Chinese firms have expressed interest in the region. Dubai Port World, according to him, was just one of them, and it clearly indicated a willingness to bid.

A Southern Special Economic Development Zone ( SEC ) Bill has been created in accordance with Mr. Suriya’s Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning ( OTP).

Prior to a public hearing and established conference involving stakeholders scheduled for next month in Bangkok and Surat Thani, the costs was posted on the OTP site for 30 days as required by law.

The Ministry of Transportation will receive the SEC act for evaluation once all the feedback has been compiled. &nbsp,

The state anticipates submitting the invoice to the case for consideration in May before passing it to parliament.

Mr. Suriya is assured that the SEC Bill may be approved and put into effect this year, opening the door to the buying process the following year.

According to him, conversations have already taken place between the state and buyers.

According to Mr. Suriya, this will help determine the Terms of Reference ( TOR ) needed to ensure that both foreign and Thai investors are drawn to the bidding process.

The state is committed to implementing the Land Bridge, which will connect two seaports, modernize maritime transportation, and boost Thailand’s profitability in the world economy.

It will follow a PPP ( Public-Private Partnership ) model, allowing the private sector to make investments in management and construction during a 50-year concession.

The whole project will be under the control of the exclusive market, including turning Chumphon Port into a contemporary deep-sea interface to bridge the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand.

In addition, it involves upgrading Ranong Port to a cargo vessel dock and creating a business hub for the Andaman-centric South Asian ships through the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation ( Bimstec) model, as well as with the Middle East and Africa.

The SEC Bill is crucial, in the opinion of the OTP, for establishing the principal body responsible for growth planning, land use management, and professional zoning.

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As Hong Kong hosts finance, sports and arts events, some say the city is getting its groove back

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Additionally, some businesspeople are hesitant to accept the greater power Beijing officials have over the city.

They don’t think the decades-old “one country, two systems” approach to governance also gives rise to freedom, particularly since a Hong Kong national security law was passed a year ago.

The controversial law, which is also known as Article 23, targets crimes like crime, the theft of state secrets, spying, destroy, sedition, and “external interference.”

There is still hope.

Hong Kong’s once-red-hot property sector is still reeling from a protracted collapse, but its Hang Seng standard has experienced a double-digit rise since Donald Trump took office on January 20, making it the world’s best performer.

Hong Kong operates out of a worldwide brokerage. It’s a good position to do business, according to Oliver Weisberg, CEO of Blue Pool Capital, a multi-strategy investment firm based in Hong Kong.

He was speaking on Monday during an Is Hong Kong Up section. focused on access to the Greater Bay Area, care, employment opportunities, and the state’s education industry.

Goodwin Gaw, his co-panelist, claimed that the American media portrays Hong Kong as having a false image.

Hong Kong is a difficult place to keep investment conferences because it is difficult to get attendees to be focused with you, according to the chair, handling primary, and co-founder of Gaw Capital Partners, one of Asia’s largest real estate private equity firms.

Gaw praised Hong Kong’s natural environment as much as his strong ties to mainland China and its tax-haven position.

He stated in an interview with CNA that the world’s investment in China is the simplest glass. Additionally, Hong Kong is a gateway for Chinese businesses to get international capital.

Hong Kong may have never left, but ( It only needs a little cleaning and shining. ”

SOME STRIKE OTHER CRIMEOUS TONE

Despite the looming effects of price threats and industry wars originating from the Trump administration, other observers expressed more caution in their opinions of Hong Kong’s coming and current.

According to Steve Okun, CEO of APAC Advisors, new American tariffs have been “explicitly applied to both China and Hong Kong, ” with products from both regions then being subject to the same customs attention and trade restrictions.

Washington’s distinction between the two is still ambiguous. A recent example is when CK Hutchison, based in Hong Kong, sold power of two Panama Canal docks to a US-led party, according to Okun.

Businesses and investors should use this as a warning to get a tougher stance to reduce Foreign influence and power. Hong Kong’s political frailty will get worse if this pattern persists. ”

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Censure debate underway, Opposition slams PM

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Paitongtarn is accused of being influenced by her father, being incompetent, and avoiding paying taxes.

PUBLISHED: 24 Mar 2025 at 11: 24

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinwatra makes a reply during the House no-confidence debate on Monday. (Photo: Pattarapong Chatpattarasill)
During the Monday House no-confidence conversation, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinwatra responds. Pattarapong Chatpattarasill ( Photo )

The discussion about Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s reported lack of ability, tax evasion, and understanding of influence from her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, who cannot be held accountable, started on Monday morning.

The opposition’s and People’s Party chief Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut claimed that Ms. Paetongtarn lacked the knowledge and the intention to resolve regional problems.

The government’s 10,000-baht handout scheme has failed to stimulate the economy, he claimed, and national issues like great energy prices, great electricity prices, and the spread of aggressive blackchin tilapia remain unresolved.

Mr. Natthaphong made reference to the transfer of Ms. Paetongtarn’s parents, Thaksin Shinawatra, who he claimed was expressing nation-visions.

The criticism president claimed that there is a chief outside the program who works outside Government House without having to accept responsibility because he is not subject to any controls.

Although the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund both warned that the 10, 000-baht flyer policy would not be effective in stimulating the economy, the prime minister continued, according to Gen. Prawit Wongsuwon, head of the Palang Pracharath Party.

He claimed that the Thai marine resources and country were in danger as a result of the prime minister’s international affairs policies regarding the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2001 with Cambodia.

He claimed that the president’s support of leisure complexes with legalized casinos would threaten the nation, hurt the nation, and encourage illegal activities, including money laundering.

Gen. Prawit added that a member of Ms. Paetongtarn’s community had convened sessions of political party officials to explain the formation of the government at the family home. The primary president’s parents, Thaksin Shinawatra, was the subject of the PPRP.

Gen. Prawit remarked,” The land is never a practice area for amateurs.”

Following that, Ms. Paetongtarn recently defended Gen Prawit’s assertions.

Without paying any estate tax, which could have been as much as 218.7 million, Ms. Paetongtarn’s elder siblings, aunt, aunt, and mother received shares in various companies for about 4.43 billion ringgit from them, according to the People’s Party’s Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, according to the Speaker.

He claimed that Ms. Paetongtarn claimed her relatives had purchased the stock but not that she had issued nine bank notes. &nbsp,

Nevertheless, he claimed that the bank records didn’t have any interest rates or repayment dates.

Through government welfare programs, the avoided inheritance taxes would have provided for some poor children and seniors. According to the People’s Party MP, it was approximately 14 % of the entire inheritance taxes collected nationwide next year.

If a tax evader be permitted to be prime minister in public? Mr. Wiroj posed a query.

Opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut opens the censure debate at parliament on Monday morning. (Photo: Pattarapong Chatpattarasill)

On Monday night, opposition head Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut formally begins the censure controversy in the parliament building. Pattarapong Chatpattarasill ( Photo )

Palang Pracharath Party leader Gen Prawit Wongsuwon speaks briefly on the same occasion. (Photo: Pattarapong Chatpattarasill)

General Prawit Wongsuwon, the president of the Palang Pracharath Party, speaks recently during the discussion. Pattarapong Chatpattarasill ( Photo )

People's Party MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn seriously accuses Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra of tax evasion. (Photo: Pattarapong Chatpattarasill)

Premier Paetongtarn Shinawatra is accused of duty evasion by Women’s Party MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn. Pattarapong Chatpattarasill ( Photo )

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