Economic slowdown

New Zealand immigration edges to 17-month high, yet remains weak

Migrant flows have been significantly impacted by an economic slowdown, with gross domestic product growing just 0.3 per cent in 2025.

Chinese tourists pull back on overseas trips amid economic gloom

Chinese travellers are favouring closer locales with Hong Kong (above) and Macau topping the list.

Vapes, liquor, soft drinks could face higher taxes in the Philippines

The move seeks to more than offset losses from Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s pro-consumer measures.

China’s top leaders pledge incremental measures to support economy

The Politburo acknowledged “difficulties and challenges facing the economy” at its meeting.

China at risk of increased youth joblessness as labour distress spreads

Surveyed unemployment in urban areas for those aged 16-24 came in at 14.9 per cent in June.

New Zealand Q2 inflation at 4.1% year on year, at more than two-year high

The consumer price index rose 1.5 per cent in the second quarter from the previous quarter, Statistics New Zealand said.

West Afghanistan female dress-code crackdown hits businesses

Women in Herat said they no longer go out unless absolutely necessary, fearing they could be stopped by the authorities over alleged dress-code violations.

Why more South Koreans are becoming ‘full-time children’

More young people in South Korea are embracing life as a "full-time child".

Oracle cut 21,000 jobs in 12 months, says AI replaced some roles

The company had a total workforce of 141,000 as at May 31, compared with about 162,000 as of the same period in 2025.

UK economy shrank in April as Iran war began to take its toll

British businesses and consumers grapple with higher energy costs and borrowing rates triggered by the Iran war.

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MDDI (P) 046/10/2025. Published by SPH Media Limited, Co. Regn. No.202120748H. Copyright © 2026 SPH Media Limited. All rights reserved.