SMU Associate Professor of Organisational Behaviour & Human Resources Kenneth Tai explained that micro habits require less self-control and allow people to overcome inertia in their daily routines. He noted that the concept is similar to goal achieving, which generates greater positive emotions and a sense of purpose and meaning. Assoc Prof Tai suggested that people can give themselves environmental cues to build micro habits
SMU Associate Professor of Finance Fu Fangjian sees both risk and opportunity in the tariff war, which he believes could accelerate China's shift from US-department trade to domestic and diversified markets. As an April 10 meeting, Zhejiang officials pledged support for businesses adapting to these changes. Assoc Prof Fu noted that Zhejiang's entrepreneurial spirit, especially in places like Wenzhou, positions it well for transformation.
China's Consumer Price Index (CPI) fell year-on-year in March for the second straight month, missing expectations despite a slower rate of decline. The Producer Price Index (PPI) drop also deepened, marking its weakest performance in four months. Academics say the data points to persistent deflationary pressure, which may worsen due to the ongoing tariff war. Exports accounted for 30.3% of China's economic growth last year, helping the country meet its 5% growth target.
SMU Professor of Marketing (Practice) Sabine Benoit listed One Stop in Tachbrook Road in The World’s Favourite Stores publication, as the store places the local community at its heart.
SMU Senior Lecturer of Communication Management Tracy Loh notes that the use of video podcasts by politicians as part of their communications and campaigning strategy allows for a more off-the-cuff approach, enabling politicians to showcase their personality and potentially increase their relatability with voters.
Commenting on private-hire operator Grab’s move to establish its own taxi fleet with second-hand vehicles and how this affects service quality, SMU Assistant Professor of Strategy & Entrepreneurship Terence Fan noted that the Land Transport Authority has set performance targets for operators. One such requirement is that at least 98% of vehicles must pass the initial vehicle inspection. If used vehicles are deployed without affecting the pass rate, passengers will have no grounds for complaints.
SMU Assistant Professor of Strategy & Entrepreneurship (Education) Terence Fan noted that Grab's partnership with BYD will enable them to acquire taxis at low prices. He also pointed out that Grab may utilise its ride-hailing strategies to achieve market dominance. However, he is also cautious that Grab's platform size could allow it to subtly favour its own taxis, potentially stifling competition.
SMU Assistant Professor of Finance (Education) Aurobindo Ghosh said that instant gratification from Buy Now Pay Later schemes regardless of one's ability to repay is particularly risky for young people in the early stages of adulthood as this may lead to a habit of accumulating debt.
SMU Associate Professor of Finance Fu Fangjian explained that China's record-high net foreign assets stemmed from both reduced Western investment in China and the overseas expansion of Chinese firms. He highlighted that companies like BYD and Geely had fuelled outbound direct investment, particularly in Southeast Asia.
SMU Associate Professor of Marketing (Education) Seshan Ramaswami said, “Regardless of how useful a product really is or how much it is going to be used, the fact that it is priced really attractively – at a big discount, or in a ‘buy two, get one free’ frame – adds to the utility of the transaction itself.” He suggested that one should consider what the recipient would appreciate when selecting a physical gift.
