Bank Bali mystery unsolved, while stock surges

The dual-tranche issuance is the first Singapore dollar bond from a Vietnamese issuer and will support lending to local MSMEs.

The ECM market performed the strongest in Q1, with Hong Kong leading the way, while Apac (ex Japan) M&A fees fell 47%.

In a positive year for the region's banks, 2025 ECM fees in Apac, ex Japan, were up 45% from 2024, DCM fees saw 11% growth, amid a record year for bonds, while M&A advisory fees climbed 43%.

Ho will join in September from Oliver Wyman Current head of group strategy Kevin Rumjahn will become managing director, head of CEO Office and strategic relations at the stock exchange.

Companies tied to AI, including in Asia, account for a rising proportion of major investment indices, challenging diversification strategies. Chinese players are gaining ground on the US giants in the AI race, leading to greater stock volatility. Christopher Chu reports.

The reforms for Thai and foreign firms are aimed at 10 industry groups, including advanced healthcare, next-generation automotive and smart electronics.