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Australian regulator commences proceedings against Singtel's Optus

Australian regulator commences proceedings against Singtel's Optus

The Business Times

The Australian Communications and Media Authority filed proceedings against Optus in the Federal Court of Australia on July 30. The regulator said Optus breached emergency call rules 1005 times on September 18, 2025. Optus said, "As the matter is now before the Australian courts, Optus will not be commenting further."

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Singapore must strengthen talent pipeline of business events industry to stay competitive: Gan Siow Huang

Singapore must strengthen talent pipeline of business events industry to stay competitive: Gan Siow Huang

CNA

Singapore must strengthen its business events talent pipeline to stay competitive, Minister of State for Trade and Industry Gan Siow Huang said on Thursday (Jul 30). She noted that technology is only as good as the people using it. The industry now focuses on innovation to reach its 2040 goals.

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Trump signs order on export curbs to retain critical minerals

Trump signs order on export curbs to retain critical minerals

The Straits Times

US President Donald Trump signed a measure on July 30 to restrict exports of industrial waste. This move helps the US retain critical minerals and rare elements needed for modern technology. Officials said these minerals can be reclaimed and recycled from goods like magnets and batteries to reduce dependence on China.

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China expresses 'serious concern' over latest US trade restrictions

China expresses 'serious concern' over latest US trade restrictions

CNA

China’s top trade official told US counterparts on Thursday (Jul 30) that Beijing had "serious concern" over Washington's latest trade restrictions. The two sides held a video call to discuss maintaining stable economic ties. US officials said they expected China to fully meet its commitments on rare earths and agricultural products.

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Deep-tech startup Atomionics, backed by SG Growth Capital, opens new research hub

Deep-tech startup Atomionics, backed by SG Growth Capital, opens new research hub

The Business Times

Deep-tech startup Atomionics opened an integrated quantum-sensing hub in the Alexandra area on Friday (Jul 31). The company plans to adapt its technology for underwater navigation and infrastructure mapping. Dr Ravi Kumar said: "To see beneath the water is to hold an advantage that spans defence, energy and infrastructure."

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China's coal demand gets boost as heatwave lifts aircon use

China's coal demand gets boost as heatwave lifts aircon use

The Business Times

China's thermal coal prices reached 822 yuan a ton on Monday as hot weather boosted air-conditioner use. Prices got a lift after falling to 797 yuan on Jul 13. Li Xuegang said, "Thermal coal prices are more likely to rise than fall," as many areas face intense heat and rising power demand.

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Japan's quake leaves communities thirsting for water and relief from heat

Japan's quake leaves communities thirsting for water and relief from heat

The Straits Times

A 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck southern Japan, killing at least 28 people. By July 30, many households in Yatsushiro had no water or power. Official Akio Matsushita said, "Because of the summer heat, the lack of water is especially difficult." Military trucks now supply water as residents face dangerous rising temperatures.

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SAFRA drone flying trial in Singapore

SAFRA drone flying trial in Singapore

The Straits Times

Drone enthusiasts get new flying spots from Aug 3 under a tie-up between CAAS and SAFRA. Four clubhouses will host a six-month trial using enclosed courts. "The usage of UA is a growing hobby in Singapore," said Lyndia Tan. People can book free slots via the SAFRA mobile app.

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El Nino raises insurance risks for Asia for 2026

El Nino raises insurance risks for Asia for 2026

The Straits Times

A global insurance firm warned on July 30 that a strong El Nino will increase risks for Asia in 2026. Munich Re said the weather pattern will trigger extreme heat and storms. Achim Kassow said, "Asia-Pacific is likely to be the region which will suffer most from El Niño."

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Singtel confirms Optus stake-sale talks as regulatory pressure mounts

Singtel confirms Optus stake-sale talks as regulatory pressure mounts

CNA

Singtel confirmed on Thursday (Jul 30) that it started discussions with multiple parties regarding a potential stake sale in its Australian unit, Optus. The company said there was no certainty the talks would result in a deal. Optus remains a major investment, generating A$8.35 billion in revenue for the group.

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New Zealand firms turn more optimistic in July: ANZ survey

New Zealand firms turn more optimistic in July: ANZ survey

The Business Times

New Zealand business confidence jumped in July as inflation expectations eased, an ANZ Bank survey showed on Thursday (Jul 30). A net 56.1 per cent of respondents expected the economy to improve. "It feels like we need a weekly business confidence survey at the moment," ANZ said in the report.

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Aims Apac Reit posts 2.5% rise in Q1 DPU to S$0.02337

Aims Apac Reit posts 2.5% rise in Q1 DPU to S$0.02337

The Business Times

Aims Apac Reit posted a distribution per unit of S$0.02337 for the first quarter ended Jun 30, up 2.5 per cent. Revenue rose 6.6 per cent to S$50.6 million. George Wang said, "We will continue to selectively pursue investment opportunities across our target markets in Singapore, Australia and New Zealand."

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