Regional News

M1 Limited has announced that its popular SIM-only mobile plan, Maxx, now includes 5G connectivity for both new and existing customers. This enhancement allows users to experience faster downloads, smoother streaming, and more responsive connectivity, leveraging M1’s highly-rated 5G network in Singapore.

Maxx, known for its simplicity, flexibility, and value, offers generous data bundles and easy activation without hidden charges. As part of a limited-time offer, customers can upgrade their plans to 5G at no additional cost. Those opting for a 5G eSIM can upgrade instantly via the Maxx App, whilst customers preferring a physical 5G SIM can visit designated M1 Shops or Maxx 5G SIM Exchange roadshows.

Customers can verify their handset, SIM, and plan eligibility for 5G through the Maxx App under the “Account” section by selecting “Check Your 5G Readiness.” This move is part of M1’s ongoing commitment to provide cutting-edge technology and tailored offerings to its over two million customers.

M1, a subsidiary of Keppel Ltd., has been a pioneer in Singapore’s telecommunications landscape since its commercial launch in 1997. It was among the first to receive a nationwide 5G-SA standalone network licence and continues to innovate with services like ultra high-speed fixed broadband and fixed voice on the Next Generation Nationwide Broadband Network. For more details or to sign up, customers can visit maxx.sg/maxx-5g.
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Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, is set to host a recruitment drive in Singapore on 2 and 3 September 2025, as part of its global initiative to hire 550 aircraft technicians. Successful candidates will be based in Dubai, where they will join the airline’s expanding technical operations team. This effort is part of the Emirates Group’s broader strategy to recruit 17,300 professionals across 350 roles this year.

The Singapore roadshow will provide both experienced and aspiring aircraft technicians the opportunity to engage with Emirates’ recruiters and engineers. Attendees will gain insights into the roles, benefits, and career progression opportunities available, as well as life in Dubai. The event will also highlight Emirates’ upcoming $950 million (US$950 million) ultra-modern engineering facility at Dubai World Central, which promises to be one of the largest and most advanced in commercial aviation.

Rashed Alfajeer, Emirates’ Country Manager for Singapore and Brunei, expressed enthusiasm for the recruitment drive, stating, “Singapore is home to some of the most talented aviation professionals in the world, and we are excited to bring our global recruitment drive here, as we mark 35 years of operations in this market.”

Emirates Engineering, known for its advanced aircraft maintenance facilities, supports the airline’s fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft. The new engineering facility, expected to be completed by 2027, will serve as a centre of excellence for aviation engineering services in the Middle East.

Candidates interested in attending the roadshow must register online. The opportunity to join Emirates offers a competitive tax-free salary, profit-sharing eligibility, and a range of benefits, including discounted flight tickets and access to exclusive privileges through the Emirates Platinum card.
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CNA, the global news brand of Mediacorp, has introduced a paid media release service in collaboration with Media OutReach Newswire. This new service allows businesses worldwide to publish their media releases on CNA’s flagship website, cna.asia, offering unprecedented access to one of Asia’s most trusted news platforms.

The partnership with Media OutReach Newswire marks CNA’s first venture into third-party content services. Jennifer Kok, founder and CEO of Media OutReach, expressed pride in being the inaugural newswire partner, highlighting the recognition of their investment in delivering corporate news across the Asia Pacific region. “Based on data from Similarweb, we know that the highest readership can be attributed to local media,” Kok stated, emphasising their focus on forming content partnerships with local media in Southeast Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and globally.

Yong Chung Jin, Head of Business Operations at CNA, clarified that the service operates separately from CNA’s editorial operations. He noted that it provides corporates and newsmakers a unique opportunity to showcase developments and enhance visibility by leveraging CNA’s strong online presence.

Since its inception in 1999, CNA has evolved into a global news brand, attracting over 90 million page views and nearly 12 million unique visitors monthly, according to Adobe Analytics data from January to July 2025. All media releases will be published as received, without edits, on CNA’s dedicated media release page.

CNA continues to expand its reach, offering content across TV, radio, and digital platforms, and is available on social media and messaging services.
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Singapore-based shipbuilder Strategic Marine has announced a partnership with US naval innovator Eureka Naval Craft to construct the Aircat Bengal MC Modular Attack Surface Craft. This collaboration, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding, aims to leverage Eureka’s pioneering Surface Effect Ship design and Strategic Marine’s shipbuilding expertise to produce a versatile vessel for both defence and civilian use.

The Aircat Bengal MC, a 36-metre modular platform, will be constructed at Strategic Marine’s advanced facilities in Singapore. The vessel is designed to meet the evolving needs of modern naval and maritime security forces, as well as the offshore energy industry. It features a highly modular payload architecture, allowing for rapid integration of various mission modules, including sensors, unmanned systems, and specialised equipment.

Bo Jardine, CEO of Eureka Naval Craft, stated, “This partnership marks a new chapter in delivering next-generation, dual-use maritime solutions to the global market.” Chan Eng Yew, CEO of Strategic Marine, added, “Our Singapore shipyard is equipped with the latest technology and staffed by a highly experienced team, enabling us to deliver complex vessels quickly and at scale.”

The Aircat Bengal MC is also equipped with Greenroom Robotics’ GAMA maritime autonomy solution, enhancing its operational flexibility and safety. This aligns with the US Department of Defense’s strategic goals in the Indo-Pacific region, offering advanced mission flexibility for various defence scenarios.

The partnership between Eureka and Strategic Marine underscores the potential of international collaboration in advancing maritime innovation and security, combining American technological leadership with Singaporean shipbuilding excellence.
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AEM Holdings has reported a notable increase in its net profit for the first half of 2025, with figures rising by 283.9% year-on-year to S$3.2 million. This growth comes as CGS International resumes coverage with a Hold call, following a previous Reduce rating. Despite a foreign exchange loss of S$5.9 million and an inventory provision of S$4.1 million leading to a S$0.3 million loss in the second quarter, AEM’s revenue for the period reached S$190.3 million, aligning with its guidance.

The company’s test cell solutions segment, which accounts for 62% of its revenue, saw an 18.8% year-on-year increase, driven by the deployment of its AMPS-BI solution. However, the contract manufacturing segment experienced a 4.7% decline due to global trade uncertainties.

Looking ahead, CGS International expects its AEM’s earnings outlook to improve in the fiscal years 2026 and 2027 as demand from new customers gains momentum. The company has guided for second-half 2025 revenues of S$170 million to S$190 million, with potential impacts from US dollar weakness and order pull-ins from key customers.

AEM’s strategic focus includes ramping up production for a major AI/HPC customer and exploring volume production opportunities with a memory customer. The company’s valuation has been adjusted to a target price of S$1.44, reflecting a 12.1x FY27 forecasted price-to-earnings ratio.

The semiconductor industry is projected to continue its growth trajectory, with global sales expected to reach $728 billion (US$728 billion) in 2025. AEM’s future performance will depend on the successful delivery of new customer orders and the broader economic environment.
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Hyphens Pharma International has announced a strategic review of its product portfolio, focusing on higher-margin products, as revealed in a recent report by CGS International. The company’s core profit after tax and minority interests (PATMI) for the first half of 2025 stood at S$5.8 million, marking a 7.4% year-on-year decline. However, the gross profit reached a record S$35.3 million, a 1.5% increase from the previous year, attributed to the shedding of low-margin products.

The company’s revenue for the first half of 2025 decreased by 10.1% year-on-year to S$89.5 million. This decline is seen as a result of Hyphens Pharma’s deliberate move to discontinue low-margin products, such as the infant formula Physiolac in Cambodia and Myanmar, which contributed less than 1% to the company’s gross profit. The decision aligns with Hyphens Pharma’s strategy to enhance its profitability by prioritising products with higher gross profit margins.

Despite the revenue drop, Hyphens Pharma’s gross profit margin expanded by 4.5 percentage points to 39.4% in the first half of 2025. The company faced one-off losses due to inventory obsolescence and foreign exchange translation, impacting its headline net profit, which fell to S$1.7 million. These losses were attributed to excess inventory of the nasal spray brand Sterimar and currency fluctuations affecting sales in Vietnam and Indonesia.

Looking forward, Hyphens Pharma is optimistic about its growth prospects, particularly in its medical aesthetics portfolio. The company has increased its earnings per share (EPS) forecasts for 2025 to 2027 by up to 14.6%, reflecting an improved profitability outlook. The target price for Hyphens Pharma’s shares has been raised to S$0.43, indicating a potential upside of 48.3% from the current price.

Hyphens Pharma’s strategic shift is expected to bolster its growth trajectory, with new product launches like Winlevi, a topical acne treatment, and Metoject, a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, anticipated to drive future revenues. The company remains focused on optimising its product offerings to sustain its competitive edge in the pharmaceutical industry.
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Marco Polo Marine, a prominent player in the offshore and marine sector, reported a significant revenue boost from its new commissioning service operation vessel (CSOV) in the nine months ending September 2025. The company earned S$11m from new offshore wind vessels, with the CSOV alone contributing approximately S$6m to S$7m since its deployment in April. This development comes amidst an easing bank financing landscape, which could facilitate further fleet expansions, a CGS International report revealed.

The company is actively considering the addition of a second CSOV, with a contract expected in the second half of 2025. This potential expansion aligns with Marco Polo Marine’s strategy to divest older vessels and reinvest in the offshore wind sector. The company anticipates that the construction of the new vessel will take about two years, with contributions to revenue likely starting by the end of 2027.

Despite the positive outlook, Marco Polo Marine faces challenges in its shipyard operations. Yard utilisation improved to 88% in the third quarter of 2025, yet revenue from this segment dropped by 19% year-on-year due to a lack of shipbuilding activity. The company has adjusted its earnings forecast for the fiscal year 2025, reducing expected earnings per share by 12% due to weaker yard revenues and lower fleet utilisation.

CGS International remains optimistic about Marco Polo Marine’s growth, reiterating an “Add” recommendation with a target price increase to S$0.08, reflecting a 21.2% upside. Key catalysts for this re-rating include potential contract wins for the second CSOV and higher fleet utilisation. However, risks such as lower-than-expected yard utilisation and project delays could impact demand for vessels.
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Skechers, renowned for its comfort technology, has launched the new GOwalk Slip-ins – Glide-Step 2.0 shoes, designed for effortless walking. The shoes, part of the GOwalk series, feature a slip-on design with lightweight cushioning and a modern aesthetic, aimed at providing all-day comfort and support. The collection is endorsed by Tony Leung, Skechers’ Asia-Pacific Brand Ambassador, highlighting the brand’s dedication to innovation and everyday comfort.

The Glide-Step 2.0 shoes incorporate several advanced features, including Glide-Step technology, breathable Air-Cooled Memory Foam insoles, ULTRA GO cushioning, and supportive midsoles. These elements ensure breathability and comfort, making them ideal for daily wear. The Hands Free Slip-ins design, complemented by a built-in Heel Pillow, allows users to easily slip on the shoes without bending, catering to those with busy lifestyles.

Available in three versatile colourways for both men and women, the Glide-Step 2.0 collection is also machine washable, ensuring easy maintenance. This launch underscores Skechers’ commitment to enhancing the walking experience with practical and stylish footwear options.
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Frencken Group has announced plans to expand its manufacturing facilities in Singapore and the US, a move expected to bolster long-term growth in its semiconductor and medical segments. The company has maintained its “buy” recommendation, raising its target price to SGD1.68, reflecting a 16% upside potential and a 2% yield forecast for the financial year 2026. The announcement follows a strong performance in the first half of 2025, driven by its mechatronics division.

The expansion is part of Frencken Group’s strategy to capitalise on new business opportunities within the semiconductor industry. The company anticipates that these improved and larger facilities will support sustained growth in the coming years. “The semiconductor business’ outlook remains positive,” stated the report by RHB, highlighting the potential for increased revenue from these strategic investments.

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FWD Singapore has launched Imperial Fortune (SG), an indexed universal life insurance plan, under its high-net-worth platform, FWD Private. Developed in collaboration with UBS Global Markets, the plan addresses the wealth preservation and legacy planning needs of Singapore’s affluent population. It offers uncapped market upside, a 0% floor, and a globally portable USD-denominated structure, providing growth and protection for sophisticated investors.

Imperial Fortune (SG) offers policyholders a unique opportunity to access equity markets with managed volatility and no downside crediting risk. Adrian Vincent, CEO of FWD Singapore, stated, “Singapore plays a critical role in serving the growing needs of high-net-worth clients in Asia.”

The plan features flexible payment options and allows clients to allocate funds between a Fixed Account, currently at 4.5% per annum, and an Indexed Account. It includes a 2.30% per annum cumulative guarantee on surrender or death, fixed charges, and a Free Partial Surrender Amount starting from the fifth policy anniversary. Additional features include a Quit-Smoking Incentive and an Incapacity Benefit.

FWD Private’s products are distributed via international brokers across Hong Kong, Singapore, Dubai, and Switzerland, offering personalised services to high-net-worth individuals. The launch of Imperial Fortune (SG) marks a significant milestone in FWD Private’s regional expansion, reinforcing Singapore’s role as a centre for cross-border wealth solutions. The company plans to expand its product suite further in 2025, addressing retirement, family office succession, and cross-border planning challenges.
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