Singapore's local institutions are increasingly distinguishing themselves in global rankings and drawing international students. Singapore has four ranked universities in the latest QS World University Rankings for 2026, with SMU jumping from 585th to 511st. SMU Provost Professor Alan Chan said that SMU'S "steady upward movement" in global rankings over the past year is encouraging.
SMU Assistant Professor of Finance (Education) Aurobindo Ghosh said that oil is a major variable cost across air travel, energy, and shipping, pervasively impacting daily life through energy and food prices, and potentially leading to inflation if increased costs are passed to consumers. While airlines often use futures contracts to lock in jet fuel prices months in advance, limiting immediate airfare impacts, he believes the energy sector may see more immediate price increases passed to consumers.
CNA Singapore Tonight spoke with SMU Assistant Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship (Education) Terence Fan about the launch of the first train for the Johor Bahru-Singapore RTS Link. He highlighted its modern design, spacious cabin, and inclusive features such as an induction system for the hearing-impaired. Asst Prof Fan noted that authorities have made the commute smoother and more commuter friendly. On the train's 3.6-minute peak-hour frequency, he said only minor adjustments may be need, as integration with the Singapore MRT improves convenience.
SMU Senior Lecturer of Communication Management Dr Tracy Loh suggested that the United States' (US) social media screening for student visa applicants likely targets content critical of its policies. President Donald Trump, or supportive of causes the US is against, like diversity, equity, and inclusion programmes. She advised applicants to avoid or delete such posts, recommending safe content like personal celebrations instead. Dr Loh believes immigration officers will likely conduct random scrolls rather than deep forensic investigations into deleted posts.
SMU Assistant Professor Terence Fan stated that autonomous vehicles can enhance public transport by improving convenience, sustainability, and efficiency. For success, they must tackle challenges in safety, regulation, public trust. workforce transition, and infrastructure development.
SMU Professor Emeritus of Operations Management Arnoud De Meyer has been appointed as an Honorary Member of European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD). The honorary membership recognises him for leaving a lasting mark on global business education, contributing to strengthening international quality standards, and advancing the EFMD mission.
Jetstar Asia's decision to cease operations on July 31 has raised concerns over short-term hikes and the need for Changi Airport to find replacements for four exclusive routes. SMU Assistant Professor of Operations Management (Education) Joyce Low said the move was expected, citing rising operational costs -life fuel - as a growing challenge for low-cost carriers. She noted that Changi Airport must now step up efforts to attract other budget airlines to cover the affected routes.
In recent years, trading cards have become increasingly popular in Singapore, with many consumers hooked on buying, trading and collecting them online. As demand has grown, prices for rare cards have soared - and scams have surged in tandem. SMU Associate Professor of Marketing Hannah H. Chang explained that this hype often causes consumers to lower their guard, as the mismatch between supply and demand creates a sense of urgency. "When a seller offers a rare, limited-edition card on a platform, it naturally seems more attractive and valuable," she said.
Singapore's carbon tax revenue for 2024 is projected at $642 million, significantly lower than the estimated $1 billion based on the new rate of $25 per tonne. SMU Associate Professor of Finance Liang Hao said the shortfall is likely due to transitional allowances granted to major emitters to maintain competitiveness. he noted that the scale of the gap suggests these allowances were a major contributor to the lower-than-expected tax revenue projection for 2024.
Grab is launching its own taxi fleet, GrabCab with the first batch of vehicles hitting the roads in July. SMU Assistant Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship (Education) Terence Fan noted that Grab is mainly targeting newcomers or inactive taxi license holders. However, drivers from other taxi firms may also switch if Grab offers more attractive terms. Asst Prof Fan added that GrabCab's entry could drive overall taxi rental rates down.
