In the ongoing US-China tariff war, Chinese authorities have warned other countries against making trade deals with the US that harm China's interests. SMU Associate Professor of Finance Fu Fangjian noted that President Trump's inconsistent remarks make the negotiation outlook uncertain, with neither side gaining a clear advantage. China is collaborating with other nations to address concerns over US policies that disrupt international trade rules.
In a commentary on U.S. tariff policy, SMU Associate Professor of Operations Management Fang Xin opined that U.S President Donald Trump's efforts to "reshore" supply chains to the U.S. are unlikely to succeed. Instead, these policies may accelerate the global reshuffling and regional diversification of supply chains. Rather than relocating operations back to high-cost, industrially underdeveloped, and uncertain U.S. market, multinational corporations are more likely to spread their operations across emerging markets to reduce trade war risks.
in 2020, when GMG acquired Royal Sporting House - marking its foray into South-east Asia - SMU Lee Kong Chian Professor of Marketing Kapil Tuli observed in a December 2020 report the group could leverage the expanded store network to launch its Sun and Sand Sports brand in new markets.
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.
