Soft Power on Pause: China Puts Japanese Films on Ice as Taiwan Row Escalates
Amid rising tensions after Japan’s new prime minister signaled military support for Taiwan, China suspended the release of two major Japanese films and issued travel advisories, causing immediate disruption in entertainment and markets. The postponements highlight how politics influence pop culture and business risk in the region.
Tyson’s Climate Claims Meet the Meat Grinder: Five-Year Pause After EWG Lawsuit
The Environmental Working Group sued Tyson Foods over misleading climate-friendly marketing, leading to a settlement where Tyson will halt ‘net-zero by 2050’ and similar claims on its beef for five years unless independently validated. The case highlights rising scrutiny of corporate climate promises, emphasizing evidence over ambitious marketing.
Google’s Dhivaru Cable Drops Two Hubs in the Indian Ocean — Here’s the Twist on Power and Resilience
Google’s new Dhivaru subsea cable will connect the Maldives, Christmas Island, and Oman, paired with regional hubs to boost network resilience and reliability across the Indian Ocean. The project not only strengthens digital infrastructure but also aims to catalyze local renewable energy, fostering economic and technological growth in remote regions.
UN Backs Gaza Ceasefire and International Force. Here’s the Twist: Hamas Says No.
The UN Security Council adopted a U.S.-drafted resolution for a Gaza ceasefire, linking hostages’ release to a phased truce and authorizing an international stabilization force, despite Hamas’s rejection and abstentions by Russia and China. The plan introduces a potential pathway to Palestinian statehood and ties security, transitional governance, and political steps amid intense regional and diplomatic divisions. Implementation will hinge on ground realities, neutrality, and logistics.
Manhattan Luxury Takes a Breather—But 2025 Is Still Barreling Toward No. 2
Manhattan’s luxury real estate market saw a sharp weekly drop to 25 signed contracts at $4M+, yet 2025 remains on pace for its second-best year since 2006 with 1,326 deals so far. Notable sales include a $24M penthouse, as condos continue to dominate. A lull may be seasonal, not a trend.
L.A.’s Next Housing Shock: A Permanent 60‑Day Fast Track, Plus a Tighter Rent Cap
Los Angeles is advancing a permanent ordinance to fast-track all-affordable housing approvals, building on the success of Emergency Directive 1. Simultaneously, the City Council approved major rent control reforms, capping regulated rent hikes at 4%. Both measures aim to speed affordable housing delivery and protect tenants, but key details remain under debate.
U.S. construction spending edges up in August, but remains below year-ago levels
U.S. construction spending edged up 0.2% in August 2025 to $2.17 trillion, defying forecasts for a decline. Gains were concentrated in private residential projects, while nonresidential and public categories softened. Year-over-year, overall spending slipped 1.6%, reflecting sectoral imbalances and a cautious outlook. Data was delayed by a government shutdown.
IOI Properties maps dual REITs across Malaysia and Singapore by 2026–2027
IOI Properties is exploring dual REIT listings in Malaysia (2026) and Singapore (2027), targeting up to $8 billion in assets. This strategy aims to tailor offerings to local investors, monetize assets, and diversify funding sources, while allowing staged execution and enhanced transparency for both markets.
Goldman Sachs Flags Multi‑Year Oil Slide as Supply Swells
Goldman Sachs forecasts a prolonged period of lower oil prices through 2026 due to a large supply surplus driven by new long-cycle projects and OPEC+ production increases. The bank expects Brent to average $56 in 2026 before recovering toward $80 by 2028, prompting caution and strategic adjustments across the energy sector.
SGX’s Institutional Crypto Bet: Bitcoin and Ether Perpetual Futures Land on Nov. 24
Singapore Exchange (SGX) will launch bitcoin and ether perpetual futures on November 24, 2025, granting access exclusively to institutional and accredited investors. The move signals growing institutionalization of crypto derivatives, rigorous risk controls, and regulated market expansion in Asia and Europe.