World Bank: Digital Technologies will help the Philippines recover
According to a report released by the World Bank and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), the rapid adoption of digital technologies can help the Philippines overcome tremendously. Firstly, in navigating the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Secondly, digital technology can assist the Philippines in recovery from the crisis. Lastly, it can also help it achieve its vision of becoming a middle-class society free of poverty.
Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) market report for September 2020
In September, the SET closed at 1,237.04 points or 5.6 percent lower than the previous month. This is due to several factors, firstly slower-than-expected COVID-19 vaccine development. Secondly, concerns about global economic recovery delays. Lastly, local political uncertainty weighed on investors’ sentiment. SET Index fell 21.7 percent from end-2019, but still fared than MSCI ASEAN which shrank 24.7 percent.
NBI to locate offices in New Clark City
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) will soon locate some of its offices in New Clark City. The offices will specifically be located at the National Government Administrative Center (NGAC). This is part of the government’s thrust to decongest Metro Manila and move government offices outside the capital.
Steady boost of Chinese and Filipino Expats in Thailand
Thailand’s dominant expatriate nationality is Japanese. Currently Japanese make up 18% of expatriates in Thailand (28,560 as of Q3 2020). However, the Japanese expatriate numbers are decreasing. According to research by leading international property consultant, CBRE, Chinese expatriate numbers are rising. The rise due in part to China shifting some of its manufacturing overseas. The same research also indicates a steady rise in Filipino expatriates as well. The increase is in-line with the demand growth for English teachers in the Kingdom.
BNM vows targeted repayment assistance for MY businesses and homes
BNM assured its commitment of assistance to business and household in debt. The announcement came on the last day of the automatic moratorium. The moratorium ended yesterday, 30th September. These include a targeted extension of the moratorium, as well as repayment flexibilities to help borrowers based on their specific financial situation. This targeted assistance approach ensures that more resources are available to assist those who are vulnerable. It also enables the banking sector to better support the broader economy through continued lending.