SMU Associate Professor Hannah H. Chang noted that Chinese car brands are gaining market share in Singapore due to improved branding and marketing efforts, such as partnerships with Toyota and Mercedes-Benz, which boost global recognition and credibility. However, she anticipates competition will increase as other manufacturers expand their electric vehicle (EV) offerings. Japanese and German brands, with strong brand equity and favourable perception, can stay competitive by innovating in EV technology and maintaining reasonable pricing.
SMU Associate Professor of Finance Hu Jianfeng discussed the impact of the Deep Seek AI model, noting that it is unlikely to cause a significant disruption to the AI industry. He emphasised the importance of embracing technological advancements and keeping pace with changes. For investors, Assoc Prof Hu advised focusing on long-term goals rather than short-term challenges and stressed the importance of portfolio diversification to mitigate risks from sudden stock impacts.
In an interview, SMU Assistant Professor of Strategy & Entrepreneurship (Education) Terence Fan discussed the dangers regarding the use of e-bikes and the potential reasons behind the decline in retailer-related offences involving power-assisted bicycles, also known as e-bikes.
SMU Associate Professor of Finance Fu Fangjian commented that China’s decision to file a complaint with the World Trade Organisation (WTO), is a diplomatic move aimed at demonstrating Beijing’s commitment to upholding the international economic and trade system as well as global order. Assoc Prof Fu opined that US President Donald Trump’s recent move to impose a 10% tariff on Chinese goods is a tentative strategy of "crossing the river by feeling the stones," aimed at assessing whether this action will exacerbate inflation in the US.
Commenting on the Pop Mart toys craze, SMU Associate Professor of Marketing Hannah H. Chang said, “Pop Mart taps into human psychology brilliantly. The blind-box concept and limited editions create a sense of scarcity and surprise that fuels demand.” However, she also noted that people get used to novelty and surprise, and it is not easy for people to stay engaged. She added that the secondary market also undermines Pop Mart blind-box strategy as buyers can purchase the exact figure they want risk-free.
Commenting on China's shrinking Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), SMU Associate Professor of Finance Fu Fangjian noted that the contraction of January’s manufacturing PMI was partly due to companies rushing to export goods before the end of last year, influenced by US President Donald Trump's tariff threats. He added that despite a record trade surplus, the decline in industrial profits highlights extremely weak domestic demand in China.
Assistant Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship Terence Fan was interviewed about why Certificate of Entitlement (COE) premiums have closed lower across all categories in the latest bidding exercise
Singapore residents expect a slight increase in expenses over the next 12 months, according to the quarterly Singapore Index of Inflation Expectations (SInDEx) survey by SMU and DBS Group Research. The 54th edition survey shows one-year-ahead headline inflation expectations stayed at 3.8 per cent from September 2024 to December 2024. About 500 individuals representing various Singaporean households were surveyed. DBS co-sponsors the research with SMU’s Sim Kee Boon Institute for Financial Economics (SKBI).
University Magazine shared about the best business schools in Singapore in 2025. It noted that SMU stands out among the best schools for business in Singapore, particularly through its Lee Kong Chian School of Business (LKCSB). SMU is renowned for its interactive seminars and industry-driven projects, which equips students with leadership, analytical, and communication skills. Its city campus location also enables meaningful corporate partnerships and networking events, opening doors to potential internships and employment opportunities.
