APAC cities continue to be some of the world’s most connected and prominent as emerging hubs in South Asia gain ground

Asia Pacific (APAC) cities, spearheaded by Tokyo, Beijing, Singapore, Melbourne, and Hong Kong, continue to assert their influence as some of the world’s most connected and prominent urban centers, according to Kearney’s 2023 Global Cities Report. The report reveals that APAC maintains a strong foothold in the top 10 of its Global Cities Index (GCI), claiming five coveted spots.
Kuwait’s Ambitious Drive to Energize Oil and Gas Sector with $5.6 Billion Investment

Kuwait’s strategic investment of $5.6 billion in its oil and gas sector signals an unwavering commitment to secure its energy future. With aspirations to raise crude oil production to 3.5 million barrels per day by 2030, Kuwait aims to play a pivotal role in global energy markets. The surge in capital spending by the Kuwait Oil Company (KOC), driven by robust expansion projects, aligns with the nation’s vision for energy self-sufficiency. KOC’s financial strength has reached historic levels, bolstered by soaring crude oil prices, providing a robust foundation for its strategic objectives. This initiative reinforces Kuwait’s energy prowess and charts a course toward a sustainable and prosperous energy landscape.
U.S. Federal Reserve Unveils 2023 Bank Stress Test Results

In a testament to the strength of the U.S. banking sector, the Federal Reserve’s unveiling of the 2023 bank stress test results showcased the industry’s resilience while shedding light on potential areas of concern. These annual evaluations, designed to simulate severe economic downturns, have become vital in safeguarding the financial system. While the tests revealed banks’ improved ability to navigate challenging scenarios, they also emphasized the need to address vulnerabilities. With a focus on maintaining stability and preparing for future economic challenges, stress tests play a critical role in shaping the future of the banking industry.
ADB Announces New Programme to Fight Climate Change

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Tuesday announced the Innovative Finance Facility for Climate in Asia and the Pacific (IF-CAP), a landmark program which could significantly ramp up support for the region in the battle against climate change.
Exclusive: Goldman Sachs to cut asset management investments that weighed on earnings

Goldman Sachs Group Inc’s asset management arm will significantly reduce the $59 billion of alternative investments that weighed on the bank’s earnings, an executive told Reuters.
Exclusive: China set to fine Ant Group over $1 billion, signalling revamp nears end-sources

Chinese authorities are poised to impose a fine of more than $1 billion on Jack Ma’s Ant Group, said six sources with direct knowledge of the matter, setting the stage for ending the fintech company’s two-year long regulatory overhaul.
Shares dip, dollar strengthens as markets eye U.S. inflation data

Shares dipped slightly and the dollar firmed on Thursday, ahead of U.S. inflation data that will influence the Federal Reserve’s rate plans, while the likely collapse of a major digital asset exchange rattled crypto investors.
Credit Suisse scrambles to finalise revamp as deadline looms

Credit Suisse is racing to firm up sales of part of its business that could limit the cash it needs from investors, a person with direct knowledge of the matter said, with just days to go before the bank unveils an overhaul.
Credit Suisse pays down debt to calm investors

Credit Suisse will buy back up to 3 billion Swiss francs ($3 billion) of debt, an attempt by the Swiss bank to show its financial muscle and reassure investors concerned about the lender’s overhaul and how much it may cost.
Exclusive: Credit Suisse sounds out investors about capital hike – sources

Credit Suisse is sounding out investors for fresh cash, two people familiar with the matter said, approaching them for the fourth time in around seven years as it attempts a radical overhaul of its investment bank.