Watchdog to keep an eye on charities that run businesses

It will flag conflicts of interest that may arise and offer guidance on non-charitable activities

In 2017, a total of $2.65 billion in donations was collected - down 7.3 per cent from $2.86 billion in 2016. PHOTO: ST FILE
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The charities watchdog will be paying more attention to groups that venture into business, flagging conflicts of interest that may arise and the need for enhanced guidelines to protect the interests of charities.

In its 2018 annual report released last Thursday, the Commissioner of Charities said it will provide guidance to charities that engage in non-charitable activities such as setting up business subsidiaries.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on June 19, 2019, with the headline Watchdog to keep an eye on charities that run businesses. Subscribe