PM Edition: Here are the top 10 business articles on LiveNews.co.nz for June 20, 2026 – Full Text
1. Thailand’s “trust capital” a potential strategic advantage amid global realignment: NUS Business School Dean
June 19, 2026
Source: Media Outreach
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 June 2026 – As geopolitical tensions reshape global trade, supply chains and investment flows, Thailand’s long-standing reputation as a trusted and neutral regional partner could become one of its strongest competitive advantages, according to Distinguished Professor Andrew K. Rose, Dean of NUS Business School.
NUS Business School Senior Lecturer Ms Usa Skulkerewatana (foreground, first from left) and Distinguished Professor Andrew K. Rose, Dean of NUS Business School with Thai media representatives.
Speaking to the media during a visit to Bangkok, Professor Rose said economies with deep international trust and stable regional relationships are increasingly well positioned as businesses rethink where they invest, manufacture and expand.
“In a world where global alignments are shifting and supply chains are being redrawn, trust becomes a strategic asset,” said Professor Rose. “Thailand has spent decades building strong relationships across Asia and beyond. That foundation becomes more valuable in periods of uncertainty.”
A pivotal moment for Thailand
Thailand’s current environment is demanding, and the International Monetary Fund’s World Economic Outlook (April 2026) projects growth of 1.5 per cent in 2026.
Professor Rose noted that rising energy costs, softer long-haul tourism demand and rapid AI adoption are creating near-term pressure across key sectors of the Thai economy. However, he said periods of disruption often create the conditions for long-term competitive repositioning.
“The economies that emerge stronger are usually the ones that adapt earliest,” as Professor Rose. “Leadership capability, agility and the ability to navigate change will determine who captures the next decade of growth.”
The comments come as businesses across Southeast Asia accelerate investment in AI, digital transformation and workforce reskilling amid growing global economic fragmentation.
A 2026 Milieu Insight study of 3,000 workers across six Southeast Asian markets including Thailand found that 53 per cent ranked over-dependence on AI as their top concern, ahead of privacy risks and job displacement. This suggests that organisations in Thailand and across the region must do more to guide, not just deploy, new technology.
Building regional leadership capability
Addressing these challenges requires more than a policy response alone. Professor Rose emphasised that both multinationals and SMEs must build their adaptation strategies around talent and leadership development to power Thailand’s growth engine.
Ms Usa Skulkerewathana, Senior Lecturer at NUS Business School, said Thai organisations should consider focusing on strengthening talent development and practical AI readiness rather than treating technology as a standalone solution.
“This is not a wait-and-see moment,” said Ms Skulkerewathana. “Thai businesses that invest early in leadership, digital capability and workforce resilience will be better positioned to compete regionally and internationally.”
Singapore’s role as Asia’s financial and educational hub offers Thai professionals and organisations a natural gateway to build regional leadership capability. Thai professionals and executives have, for decades, benefitted from NUS Business School’s MBA, MSc and executive education programmes, including the Stanford–NUS Executive Programme and other senior leadership initiatives developed with global academic and industry partners. Thai enrolment has remained steady over the past five years as professionals seek regional exposure and globally benchmarked leadership training.
Thailand’s “trust capital” is intact, and its position within a reorganising ASEAN is reinforced by the changes underway. The Thai institutions and business leaders that treat “trust capital” as a competitive asset, and build the leadership depth to deploy it, will define the country’s next chapter of growth.
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Hashtag: #NUSBusinessSchool
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
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2. Awards – Celebrating Excellence in Ethical & Impact Investing: Winners of the 2026 Awards
June 19, 2026
The sixth annual Ethical and Impact Investment Awards were held in Auckland on 18th June, presented by the charity, Mindful Money. These awards showed strong commitment to shifting investment towards positive real world outcomes, a theme of the awards and preceding conference.
These awards come at a time of political challenges to the approach of Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) investing in the US. However, there are also strong commitments to sustainable investing in other markets globally. This reflects growing financial risks from climate and environmental impacts, as well as massive opportunities from the rapid shift towards sustainability and the climate transition. These awards are more relevant than ever.
Mindful Money’s Founder and Co-CEO, Barry Coates commented: “These awards celebrate innovation and excellence in ethical and impact investing. They set a high bar for the sector and have become the standard for excellence in ethical and impact investing. We encourage others in the investment sector to respond to public demand and move further and faster towards high standards of sustainable investment.”
Mindful Money’s Co-CEO, Kate Vennell added: “Transitioning towards net zero and a more sustainable economy will need capital to be re-directed from harm to positive outcomes, such as clean energy, human health and community housing. These awards show the investors that are leading the way.”
Best Integration of Positive Outcomes
This is a new award, reflecting the exciting opportunities for mainstream investment providers to contribute to social and environmental solutions. In recent years, there has been an increased allocation towards positive real world outcomes from mainstream KiwiSaver and managed funds.
Generate was Highly Commended for their pioneering work in investing KiwiSaver and managed funds into opportunities in affordable housing and venture capital.
Pathfinder was the inaugural award winner. Their strategy integrates investments for positive outcomes across their investment portfolios. They have made innovative and impactful investments into a range of private companies delivering positive outcomes.
Best New Ethical and Impact Investment fund 2026
This is always an exciting award category, highlighting the funds that are bringing new ideas and options to the New Zealand investment scene.
Te Piringa and Home Capital Partners were Highly Commended. Support for community housing partnerships is at the core of the fund – providing partners with access to capital that will support growth in social and affordable housing provision.
Climate Venture Capital Fund 2 was the winner of this award. Starting a follow-on fund for climate solutions is a challenge and there are important innovations in this second fund. They make a strong contribution in supporting investee companies to commercialise global-scale climate solutions and building climate investing in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Best Ethical or Impact Overseas Fund
This award is open to overseas investment funds that are actively marketed in New Zealand. The judges were looking for overall excellence in all aspects of funds management.
Pella Global Generations PIE Fund was Highly Commended for a sound ethical investment framework, including strong engagements with investee companies to raise their standards.
Australian Ethical Emerging Companies Fund was the award winner. Their Ethical Charter, applied across all fund holdings, is effective in avoiding investment in harmful activities and integrating positive outcomes investing. They have a comprehensive stewardship approach, with strong research, escalation pathways and divestment triggers.
Best Media Reporting on Ethical Investment
This category is for the best journalism about ethical or impact investment. The judges were looking for high standards of journalism, attuned to the interests of their audiences.
Frances Cook was Highly Commended and congratulated by the judges for her podcast and multimedia interviewing skills and insights. Her stories are compelling.
Susan Edmunds won the award for her ability to make stories interesting and relevant, reaching RNZ audiences far beyond those interested in finance. Her reporting has provided ways for large audiences to find out more and take action.
Best Ethical Financial Adviser
Financial advisers have an important role in providing informed, independent and appropriate advice on ethical and impact investment. They provide New Zealand investors with financial advice that reflects their values and financial aspirations, and those of their family.
Dr. Rodger Spiller of Money Matters was Highly Commended. Rodger is a thought leader for ethical and impact investing, through the delivery of research papers for the sector and high quality resources for clients.
Carey Church of Moneyworks was the winner of the award. Carey combines a strong client-centred approach with deep research into investment options to meet clients’ needs. Ethical issues are integrated throughout her practice and in her work across the financial advice sector.
Best Ethical or Impact Asset Owner
This new award category recognises the crucial role played by the institutions that hold capital for investment, including trusts and foundations, charities, faith-based organisations, financial institutions and family offices. They are the ones who set the mandate for investing and the ethical and impact investment policies.
Clare Foundation was Highly Commended for their innovative approach, focused on investments that generate positive outcomes.
BayTrust was the award winner. They have built an impact-oriented investment approach, benefiting the communities in the Bay of Plenty and beyond. They have forged strong partnerships with local partners, iwi and communities in projects such as the Bay of Plenty Housing Equity Trust and Taumata Hauha. They are showing leadership in investing community capital for good.
Best Impact Investor
This award is for funds that intentionally invest for positive impact as well as financial return. This is a growing and important part of the investment sector, in New Zealand and internationally. Unusually, the judges decided to give a joint award to two impactful and exciting investment funds.
Climate Venture Capital Fund, joint winner, has built impressive momentum from their first fund into their growth-oriented follow-on fund. They have built a diverse base of investors, including philanthropists, KiwiSaver and institutional investment, private investors and AIP visa migrants. Their investments are providing well-documented impacts in terms of emissions reductions and avoidance, with opportunities to scale globally.
Te Pae ki te Rangi, Soul Capital, joint winner, is innovating in its approach, with investments ranging from flaxroots initiatives in te Tai Tokerau to rapidly growing global companies. Soul Capital brings academic rigour and strong values, along with clear financial aims. They have a clear articulation of impact, linked to the focus of the founders, and a robust theory of change.
Best Ethical Investment Provider (sponsored by Public Trust)
The award has been expanded this year, so that it covers both KiwiSaver and managed funds. Despite a turbulent market, these funds have continued to grow into a significant pool of domestic capital. now totalling over $230 billion.
Pathfinder won this year’s award. Pathfinder is continuing to innovate and provide leadership in the ethical investment sector. They have increased their investment in positive outcomes and made a commitment to the Net Zero Asset Manager Initiative for climate action. Ethical values are core to their strategy and investments.
David Callanan, Public Trust Corporate Trustee Services GM, says he’s proud the organisation is returning as principal sponsor of the main awards for the third year in a row, plus sponsor of the Best Ethical Investment Provider award. As the supervisor for 14 KiwiSaver schemes, Public Trust plays a significant role in investment fund oversight.
Callanan says: “Ethical and impact investing is evolving quickly, driven by New Zealanders who want their money invested in line with their values. Investors are asking better questions about where their money goes, and they expect greater transparency, accountability and choice. That is a positive shift for the sector, because credible ethical investment claims help build confidence, lift standards, and support better outcomes for investors and the communities they care about. The Mindful Money Awards play an important role in recognising that leadership and helping investors see who is setting the standard.”
Jono Broome, Morningstar Sustainalytics commented: “The Aotearoa sustainable fund market has continued to stand out from other markets around the world with consistent and impressive demand. Net positive inflows have been recorded in every quarter of the past four years across managed funds and ETFs. Morningstar Sustainalytics is pleased to support Mindful Money in the annual fund awards to acknowledge the best of New Zealand’s ethical funds in 2026.”
Notes:
The keynote speaker for the awards event, held at the Maritime Room, Princes Wharf, Auckland, was Jono Ridler, endurance swimmer, ocean advocate, and co-founder of the Swim4TheOcean initiative. The awards MC was Jesse Mulligan, well-known as a leading radio presenter on RNZ, writer, comedian, restaurant critic and media personality.
Prior to the awards ceremony, Mindful Money’s conference started with Barry Coates announcing two major developments. Mindful Money has launched a transparency tool in Australia, providing free information to Australians on where their super funds are invested. Mindful Money will also launch a new website tool providing Kiwis with information on the degree to which their KiwiSaver and managed funds are invested in companies that generate positive outcomes.
This issue of positive outcomes was the focus of the first panel, facilitated by Kate Vennell, with panelists: James Palmer, Community Finance; Yasmin Winchester, Fisher and Paykel Healthcare; and Gary Holden, Lodestone Energy.
The second panel focused on political issues that should be discussed in the forthcoming election. The panel was facilitated by Bridget Coates, with panelists: Mike Casey Re-Wiring Aotearoa; Nicola Toki, formerly Forest & Bird; Fraser Whineray; and Helen Robinson, Auckland City Mission.
Facilitated roundtables with the audience identified key initiatives to move forward on positive outcomes and election priorities.
Photos from the conference and awards ceremony can be found here: https://alishalovrich.smugmug.com/2026/2026-Mindful-Money-Awards-/n-chjc22
Sponsors:
Sponsors for the conference were: lead sponsor Morningstar Sustainalytics; sponsorship contributions from Australian Ethical, First Sentier, Generate and Trust Investments Management; and community support from Foundation North.
Mindful Money has secured generous support for the awards ceremony from: lead sponsors Public Trust and Morningstar Sustainalytics; silver sponsor New Zealand Super Fund; sponsorship contributions from Always Ethical and Generate; and community support from Foundation North.
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3. Roland Berger reports strongest year in its history and reinforces long-term commitment to the Middle East
June 18, 2026
Source: Media Outreach
- Highest revenue in the firm’s history (€1.01 billion)
- Twenty years in the Middle East underline Roland Berger’s long-term commitment to the region
- Continued investment in AI and future capabilities
DUBAI, UAE – Newsaktuell – 18 June 2026 – Roland Berger, the only leading global consultancy of European origin, generated revenues of €1.01 billion in 2025, making it the strongest financial year in the firm’s history.
For the Middle East, this milestone comes at a time of significant change across the consulting industry and the wider regional economy. Over the past two decades, the region has undergone profound economic transformation, creating new opportunities while continuously reshaping client priorities and business models.
Since opening its first office in the Middle East in Bahrain in 2006, Roland Berger has established a strong presence in the region and supported public- and private-sector organizations on some of the region’s most significant transformation initiatives. The firm’s offices in Bahrain, UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia are an important part of its global network.
Adapted strategy in 2025
In 2025, changing market dynamics have prompted firms across the consulting industry to adapt their strategies and sharpen their focus. Against this backdrop, Roland Berger has refined its regional strategy and continued to strengthen capabilities in areas that remain critical to clients’ long-term transformation agendas, such as digital transformation, performance improvement and transactions.
Santiago Castillo, Managing Director Middle East at Roland Berger, said:
“The market environment has changed significantly over the past few years, requiring all consulting firms to adapt. Our response has been to strengthen the resilience of our business and ensure we remain closely aligned with the evolving needs of our clients. As we mark 20 years in the Middle East, our commitment to the region remains unchanged. We continue to see substantial long-term opportunities across the region and are confident that our combination of local presence, global expertise and deep transformation experience positions us well for the years ahead.”
From strategic advisor to execution partner in the Middle East
As a long-standing partner in the region’s diversification efforts, Roland Berger worked with public and private sector clients across the GCC and wider Middle East in 2025 to help establish and scale industrial ecosystems, joint ventures and new companies.
In urban development, the firm supported government entities and master developers in designing governance models that enable urban development to be investable and operationally effective. This included advising on some of the region’s most ambitious developments and large-scale urban districts.
In Aerospace & Defense, Roland Berger deepened is engagements across the local ecosystem, advising clients on portfolio diversification, intellectual property strategies, and the development of indigenous defense capacity. These efforts support the region’s ambition to build sovereign industrial capabilities.
Globally, the firm’s investment in the new AI venture CNTR highlights its role in shaping collaborative AI systems that merge technology with industry know-how.
Hashtag: #RolandBerger
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
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4. Art+AI Fuels Innovation & Entrepreneurship: 2026 Next Generation Philanthropy Leadership Program Opens Recruitment
June 18, 2026
Source: Media Outreach
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 June 2026 – Amid the global wave of technological advancement, the next generation of young leaders is presented with unprecedented growth opportunities. As such, today’s youth must learn beyond the boundary of traditional classrooms, engage with real communities, tackle social challenges with creative thinking, and chart sustainable paths for the future of humanity. To nurture young talents and turn inspiring ideas into tangible action, the Third Next Generation Philanthropy Leadership Program is now open for applications.
Photo: Group shot of 2025 program participants at Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
Since its inception in 2024, the annual program has spent three consecutive years fostering outstanding young social innovators across Asia. The 2026 summer camp will be hosted by The University of Hong Kong (HKU) and will center on the theme “Art + AI for Social Good.” It equips participants with practical AI skills, inspires creativity through art, and encourages collaboration across disciplines and cultures. Top teams from the Creative Challenge will receive seed funding and one-on-one mentorship to further scale their projects, boosting youth-led social innovation across Hong Kong and the broader Asian region.
Representing much more than a regular summer camp, this long-term initiative empowers young people to take action and drive social entrepreneurship. The past two cohorts have gathered nearly 100 exceptional high school students from all over Asia, with around 90% of them giving overwhelmingly positive feedback on their learning experience.
“I used to believe leadership was all about individual excellence,” shared a former participant. “Working in teams taught me that true leadership lies in uniting people and moving forward together.”
The previous sessions were held at the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU), with official support from the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) under the Singapore Youth Programme. Under the guidance of seasoned practitioners from government, business, academia and social sectors, participants translated creative concepts into implementable projects. Standout initiatives including Silver Sayang which dedicated to alleviating elderly loneliness, and NourishMind which leverages AI to promote mental wellness and mindfulness, have secured seed funding and ongoing incubation support, delivering lasting social value. These success stories prove that young people can make a real difference when given the right platform and resources.
Richard Buttrey, Program Director at ARM, a world-leading semiconductor IP provider affiliated with the University of Cambridge and a veteran mentor of the program, commented, “Philanthropy is not always linked to young people. While youths may lack financial means, they hold a strong sense of fairness and justice, a quality widely recognized by top academic institutions, enterprises and the whole society.”
Viswa Sadasivan, former Member of Parliament of Singapore, also spoke highly of the program. “Participants will visit renowned charitable foundations and NGOs throughout the camp. We adopt immersive, experiential learning to make growth engaging and rewarding. Joining this program marks the first step toward a lifelong journey of giving and service.”
Keeping pace with AI trends, the 2026 program will select 50 outstanding young talents for a five-day immersive learning experience in Hong Kong. Participants will attend structured entrepreneurship workshops to develop sustainable business models, turning social solutions into financially viable and long-running public welfare projects. The core highlights of this year’s program are as follows:
- Expert-led Workshops: Hands-on training in AI creative application, leadership development, public speaking and social project design.
- Field Visits: On-site tours of local Hong Kong communities and NGOs to gain first-hand insights into social welfare issues.
- Art + AI Creative Challenge: Cross-team competitions for innovative social impact solutions, with seed funding awarded to winning teams.
Concurrently, a dedicated Welfare Support Scheme is also launched alongside the main program. Full sponsorship, including travel expenses and accommodations, will be provided for students from remote impoverished areas in China and disadvantaged students worldwide, including student leaders among left-behind children supported by the Maitian Project. Online courses are additionally available for youth across Asia who are passionate about philanthropy. We welcome innovative-minded high school students to join us in Hong Kong this summer, and explore boundless possibilities where technology, art and social change intersect.
Program & Application Information
- Venue: The University of Hong Kong
- Eligibility: Youth aged 14 to 20, including high school and university students, with a passion for innovation, entrepreneurship and social welfare
- Scholarship: All 50 selected participants will receive full scholarships covering all course and activity fees
- Admission: Rolling admission. Applications will close once all vacancies are filled.
- Application Link: https://www.nextgenphilanthropy.net/register-for-the nextgen-program-2026/
Based in Singapore, Good Soil Foundation commits to empowering the next generation of young leaders. Through education, experiential learning and impact investment, it cultivates future social entrepreneurs with global vision and a strong sense of social responsibility. To learn more, please visit our official website: https://goodsoilfoundationsg.com/ or follow our social media accounts.
Hashtag: #GoodSoilFoundation
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
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5. Vietnam’s Leading Enterprise Technology Firm Establishes Singapore Gateway to Drive AI-Powered Digital Transformation Across APAC
June 18, 2026
Source: Media Outreach
Luvina Software Singapore officially launches as a trusted technology partner for AI-powered transformation and enterprise modernisation across APAC
Management, partners, and guests commemorate the official launch of Luvina Software Singapore. (Front row, second from left: Lynn Le, Director of Luvina Singapore; Ethan Lim, CEO of Luvina Software Singapore; and Le Quang Luong, Co-Founder and CEO of Luvina Software).
Established as a strategic joint venture between Luvina Software Vietnam and Singapore-based consulting firm GleamCore, Luvina Software Singapore aims to serve as a trusted gateway for organisations seeking high-quality, scalable and cost-efficient digital transformation solutions across the Asia Pacific region and beyond. The official inauguration was commemorated in the presence of Mr Cao Xuan Thang, Commercial Counsellor and Head of the Vietnam Trade Office in Singapore, alongside other senior representatives from the Embassy of Vietnam in Singapore, including senior diplomatic and trade officials, as well as strategic partners, enterprise leaders and key stakeholders from Singapore’s technology ecosystem.
The Singapore office represents a strategic move to bridge a growing gap in the digital economy, where organisations are under mounting pressure to modernise legacy systems, adopt AI and scale technological capabilities amid rising costs and talent shortages.
As businesses worldwide accelerate digitalisation, Singapore has emerged as one of the world’s most trusted technology ecosystems and a strategic gateway between East and West, with strong global connectivity, a highly developed regulatory environment and growing leadership in AI and Smart Nation initiatives.
Luvina Software’s decision to establish a presence in Singapore comes amid growing demand for trusted technology partners capable of delivering measurable outcomes. While many businesses prioritise digital transformation, organisations continue to face barriers including high implementation costs, delivery quality consistency, fragmented technology ecosystems and shortages in specialised engineering talent.
Singapore’s investments into frontier technologies, including more than S$1 billion committed towards National AI Research & Development between 2025 and 2030, further reinforce the nation’s position as a trusted global AI hub and a launchpad for regional and international expansion.
Founded in 2004 in Hanoi, Vietnam, Luvina Software has grown into a globally trusted software engineering company with over 750 employees, 1,000+ projects delivered, and more than 110 enterprise clients worldwide across sectors including insurance, banking, healthcare, manufacturing and retail. Impressively, 95% of its clients have remained with the company for at least a decade, underscoring its longstanding reputation for consistency, quality and reliability.
Luvina Software also operates delivery centres in Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City, alongside international footprints in Japan, the United States and now Singapore, enabling seamless hybrid and offshore delivery models for clients across global markets.
Its long-standing experience serving discerning Japanese corporations has shaped a delivery philosophy rooted in precision, accountability and rigorous governance, supported by globally recognised certifications including ISO 27001 and CMMI Level 3 for both Services and Development.
At the heart of Luvina Software Singapore’s proposition is a unique operating model that combines Singapore-based strategic advisory and governance with Vietnam’s large-scale engineering capability, allowing enterprises to modernise systems and accelerate innovation without compromising quality or control.
The company’s core focus areas include:
- AI-Powered Transformation & Intelligent Solution Engineering
- Enterprise Systems Modernisation & Managed Business Platforms
- High-Performance Engineering Capacity Enablement
Through its AI-enabled Offshore Development Centre (ODC) model, Luvina integrates AI-assisted software engineering into software planning, coding, testing and deployment, helping organisations accelerate delivery timelines, reduce inefficiencies and improve operational scalability while maintaining strict governance and quality assurance.
Rather than merely acting as a software vendor, Luvina positions itself as a long-term transformation partner, offering end-to-end accountability from technology strategy and implementation to long-term support and optimisation.
As part of its Singapore growth strategy, Luvina Software Singapore intends to work closely with solution providers, system integrators, professional service firms, venture capital and private equity firms, as well as enterprises seeking to co-develop scalable digital products for regional and international markets.
The company has already secured momentum in the Singapore market, having acquired more than a dozen local projects, with plans to further expand its presence across Southeast Asia, Australia and Europe in subsequent phases of growth.
Among its growing portfolio of clients are Nomura Research Institute Ltd., Japan’s largest economic research, management consulting and IT systems integration firm; CRESCO Ltd., a prominent Japanese IT systems integrator and software development company; and CRESCO Vietnam Co. Ltd., the Vietnam subsidiary of the CRESCO Group providing offshore development and IT solutions for Japanese enterprises. The portfolio also included Soliton Systems K.K., a specialist in cybersecurity, identity management, and secure access technologies, reinforcing Luvina Software Singapore’s reputation as a trusted technology partner for enterprise transformation and high-performance software delivery.
Mr Le Quang Luong, Co-Founder and CEO of Luvina Software, said, “Singapore represents not only a new market for us but it’s also a strategic gateway for how we intend to co-create the future of enterprise technology across the region. As organisations face mounting pressure to modernise, adopt AI and scale with confidence, businesses do not simply need more technology vendors; they need trusted partners who can bridge strategy, execution and measurable outcomes.”
“Through Luvina Software Singapore, we bring together Singapore’s global connectivity and governance strengths, Vietnam’s engineering excellence, and Japan’s deeply rooted standards of quality and reliability to help organisations transform with greater speed, confidence and accountability. Ultimately, we are here to turn complex work into outcomes businesses can count on,” added Mr Ethan Lim, CEO of Luvina Software Singapore.
Looking ahead, Luvina Software Singapore intends to deepen its role in helping enterprises modernise legacy systems, accelerate AI adoption and co-develop scalable digital solutions that can be commercialised globally, reinforcing Singapore’s role as a strategic innovation hub for the region.
For more information, please visit: www.luvina.net
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Hashtag: #LuvinaSoftware #LuvinaSoftwareSingapore #AI #Launch #DigitalInnovation #Software #Singapore #Vietnam
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
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6. GDP growth anaemic and masks economy still in “huge trouble”, says NZCTU
June 18, 2026
Source: NZCTU
GDP data released by StatsNZ today showed that the economy grew at an annual rate of 0.8 percent.
New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi President Sandra Grey says this data is likely to be the high-water mark before the full impacts of the conflict in the Gulf have been registered.
“This growth was in line with the forecast from the Reserve Bank, who now expects growth to be lower from here. Growth is anaemic, and together with high unemployment and low consumer confidence, paints a picture of an economy that is still in huge trouble,” says Grey.
“The economy grew in manufacturing this quarter, but annual manufacturing data is lower than a year ago (-0.7 percent). Real residential construction data was down -4.5 percent annually. Real output in construction is now 20 percent lower than it was in 2023. Total business investment is lower than it was two years ago in real terms. The private sector hasn’t invested in an economy that has seen little to no growth, and fewer customers.
“Annual real GDP per capita was flat, and it is still well behind where we were a few years ago. Annual real GDP per person is $1,447 lower than it was in 2023. Working people certainly aren’t benefitting, with compensation of employees (wages and salaries) falling in real terms, meaning that the total wage bill of the country is going backwards. The working people’s share of the economy has declined now for two straight years. Meanwhile, the broad measure of profits saw a 6.9 percent annual average increase in this data.
“This data shows what the Government’s growth strategy actually means. Over the past two years the economy has grown by $2.38m a day in real terms. In the two years between 2021 and 2023 it saw real growth of $31.1m a day. Wages are falling, more and more people are unemployed. The data is showing us that you can’t cut your way to prosperity. Annual growth in New Zealand is lower than Australia and the OECD average. Our economy needs a new approach,” says Grey.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/06/18/gdp-growth-anaemic-and-masks-economy-still-in-huge-trouble-says-nzctu/
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7. Meat leads rise in exports in May – Overseas merchandise trade: May 2026 – Stats NZ news story and information release
June 19, 2026
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8. Funding boost for aged residential care sector
June 19, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
A funding boost will strengthen aged residential care services and improve support for older New Zealanders, Health Minister Simeon Brown and Associate Health Minister Casey Costello say.
“Older New Zealanders deserve access to safe, quality care that meets their needs and supports them to live with dignity,” Mr Brown says.
Health New Zealand will provide a 4 per cent funding uplift worth approximately $79 million to aged residential care providers for 2026/27.
“This investment will help providers improve access to aged residential care and support better care for older New Zealanders.
“We know demand for aged care services is growing as New Zealand’s population ages. This investment will help providers respond to that demand and continue delivering quality care for older New Zealanders.”
The funding includes a 2.66 per cent base increase, alongside targeted investment to improve service delivery, strengthen responsiveness to demand, and enhance access to care.
Mr Brown says a key focus of the package is helping older people move more quickly into the care setting that best meets their needs.
“A central part of this investment is supporting timely, clinically appropriate admissions into aged residential care, including over weekends where it is safe to do so.”
Historically, weekend admissions from hospital into aged residential care have not been a common feature. Under this funding package, providers will be expected to support admissions over weekends where it is clinically appropriate and safe to do so.
“Too often, older people remain in hospital longer than necessary while waiting to transition into residential care, contributing to delayed discharges and reducing capacity for other patients who need hospital treatment.
“Helping people move into the right care setting sooner can improve patient outcomes, reduce pressure on hospitals, and ensure beds are available for those who need acute and urgent care.
“It will also support better continuity of care and a more joined-up experience for patients and their families.”
Ms Costello says the investment complements broader work already underway to modernise aged care services and ensure they remain sustainable as demand grows.
“We know the current aged care model is out of date and needs to evolve to meet the needs of New Zealand’s ageing population, with reform work underway,” Ms Costello says.
“This investment supports those longer-term reforms while also delivering practical improvements now and we appreciate the sector’s engagement in both processes.
“While there is more work ahead, with the Aged Care Ministerial Advisory Group to deliver its report to Ministers in the next few weeks, the funding uplift provides additional support to the sector as we work through the reform process.
“New Zealand has a strong aged care sector, supported by dedicated providers and staff who deliver quality care every day. This funding will help services remain responsive to growing demand while we continue the work needed to build a more sustainable system for the future.
“This is about strengthening support for older New Zealanders and their families, improving access to care, and ensuring the sector is better placed to meet future demand.”
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/06/19/funding-boost-for-aged-residential-care-sector/
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9. Golden Visa Fuelling Multi-Million-Dollar Lift in Luxury Rentals, Hospitality and Tourism – Data
June 18, 2026
Wealthy international migrants exploring New Zealand’s Golden Visa pathway are helping fuel a multi-million-dollar lift in luxury rentals, hospitality and tourism before they buy property, creating wider economic benefits for accommodation providers, homeowners, restaurants, concierge services, tourism operators and local retailers, according to new data.
New research from realestate.co.nz has found demand in the luxury rental market increased by 43% between January and May 2026 compared with the same period last year. The data also shows growth accelerated after the Golden Visa changes came into effect, with international luxury rental activity in April and May more than doubling compared with the same period last year, increasing 123%.
New figures from luxury accommodation platform Stay Luxe also show property searches increased by 200% between January and May 2026, compared with the same period last year, as high-net-worth international visitors look to “test-drive” New Zealand before committing to residency or a property purchase.
Their data revealed Golden Visa migrants are staying around five times longer in luxury rental accommodation than other high-net-worth travellers, as they look to immerse themselves in local communities, understand the lifestyle and explore potential property options ahead of settling.
Industry experts say the overnight boost for the premium accommodation and hospitality sectors is among the first tangible evidence that the Active Investor Plus visa is generating economic activity beyond capital investment, with individuals already spending thousands of dollars a day across premium goods and services before any property purchase is made.
Sarah Wood, realestate.co.nz CEO, says the data shows international interest is accelerating at the premium end of the rental market.
“Luxury rentals give us an early read on buyer intent before it turns into a purchase. These visitors are spending time in the market, comparing locations and building confidence before making a significant property decision,” Wood says.
“What is interesting is that the lift is strongest in the premium rental category and becomes much more pronounced from April onwards. That timing is consistent with the Golden Visa bringing new international interest into the part of the market where high-net-worth demand is most likely to appear first.”
Greg Owen, Stay Luxe co-founder, says high-net-worth migrants are transitioning into New Zealand life in stages, with the initial phase already delivering significant economic benefits beyond the property sales market.
“What we are seeing is that these visitors are not just arriving in New Zealand and buying a home. They are coming here first, staying in luxury accommodation, exploring different regions, using local services and deciding whether New Zealand is the right long-term fit for them,” Owen says.
“That creates a much broader economic impact than many people realise. The accommodation provider benefits, but so do homeowners, chefs, drivers, concierge providers, helicopter operators, charter companies, restaurants, retailers, galleries and local tourism businesses.”
Wood says the data points to a more concentrated lift in luxury rental demand, led by overseas visitors assessing New Zealand as a place to live, invest and eventually buy.
“The growth we are seeing around luxury rentals reflects the way high-net-worth buyers tend to approach a major move. They want time on the ground to understand neighbourhoods, schools, lifestyle, services and the type of property that would suit them before they make a longer-term commitment,” she says.
Wood says Auckland has the highest level of demand, with their data showing luxury rental activity in the city was more than six times higher in May 2026 than a year earlier.
“Auckland is often where international buyers begin because it has the largest pool of premium property, international connections, private schools, professional services and the lifestyle infrastructure many high-net-worth buyers look for,” she says.
Stay Luxe data shows 81% of guests are international, with North America accounting for 41% of international guests, followed by Australia at 27%, Asia at 12%, the UK at 9% and Europe at 4%.
Owen says Golden Visa guests stay significantly longer than traditional luxury tourists, with these guests staying an average of 32 nights, compared with around seven nights for standard luxury travellers.
“That length of stay changes the economics completely. A typical luxury holiday guest may spend heavily for a week, but Golden Visa and relocation visitors are often here for a month or more. They are living in the community, dining out, travelling domestically, shopping, using services and in some cases actively looking for property,” he says.
The company says its top-tier luxury properties have an average total booking value of around $77,600, with an average nightly rate of $4,750 and an average stay of 16 nights. Its second-tier properties record an average booking value of around $13,400, with an average nightly rate of $1,690 and an average stay of eight nights.
Owen says daily spending on extras can vary widely, from around $500 per day for concierge support to as much as $8,000 per day for a combination of services such as private chefs, in-house spa treatments, personal drivers and security.
He estimates each stay generates around $20,000 in additional economic spend beyond accommodation, including food and beverage, activities and experiences, domestic transport, retail, art and gifts.
“The high-end rental market is becoming part of the front door to New Zealand for wealthy migrants. Before they buy, they want to understand the lifestyle, the regions, the schools, the services and the local environment. Luxury accommodation gives them that bridge,” he says.
The company says its average daily rate has increased 16% compared with the same period last year, with some properties more than doubling their average daily rate. Stay Luxe occupancy is also tracking around 12% higher than the wider market.
Owen says the off-peak benefit is likely to become more visible through winter, as Golden Visa and relocation guests are less tied to traditional tourism seasons.
“June to September is usually the quieter period for luxury accommodation, but Golden Visa travellers are different from seasonal tourists. If they are staying an average of 32 nights and travelling year-round, that has an immediate impact on occupancy and revenue,” he says.
Wood says realestate.co.nz is responding to the growth in demand by developing a dedicated Golden Visa rental landing page and new resources to help owners of premium rental properties connect more effectively with high-net-worth international visitors.
“These visitors often need high-quality rental accommodation while they assess New Zealand as a place to live and invest. A dedicated rental pathway will help make that process easier for them, while giving premium property owners a more direct way to reach this market,” she says.
The increase in luxury rental demand follows renewed interest in New Zealand’s investor migration settings, with Golden Visa applicants and other wealthy offshore buyers assessing the country as both a lifestyle destination and long-term investment market.
Owen says New Zealand is well-positioned to attract more high-value visitors, but the country still lacks the depth of ultra-luxury accommodation available in markets such as Europe, the United States and parts of Australia.
“New Zealand has outstanding luxury homes and lodges, but we do not yet have the same depth of supply at the very top end. International guests travelling with family, staff or security teams often need large residences, multiple bedrooms and a very high level of service,” he says.
“There is a real opportunity for New Zealand property owners. Some owners may not realise there are international guests prepared to pay premium rates for the right property, particularly if it offers privacy, design, location and a genuinely high-end experience.”
Owen says the next phase of growth will come from connecting high-value international demand with a more structured national portfolio of luxury homes.
“New Zealand’s luxury rental market has been underdeveloped relative to the calibre of international guests now looking at the country. The Golden Visa effect is helping expose that gap, but it is also showing the scale of the opportunity,” he says.
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10. Funding boost for community pharmacies
June 19, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
Community pharmacies will receive a funding boost to help more New Zealanders access timely healthcare closer to home, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.
“Community pharmacies are often the front door to New Zealand’s health system. They provide trusted advice, dispense medicines, deliver vaccinations, and help people get the care they need in their local communities,” Mr Brown says.
“We are focused on making it easier for people to access care earlier and strengthening community pharmacy services is a key part of that.”
Health New Zealand has agreed to a 3.16 per cent funding uplift for community pharmacy services, worth $26.6 million, alongside further investment to support an expanded range of clinical services delivered through local pharmacies.
The agreement includes:
a 3.16 per cent increase to pharmacy service fees
$11.9 million annual funding to support expanded clinical services, which is a $6.9 million increase to the Extended Pharmacy Services fund
a 3.16 per cent increase for pharmacy immunisation services, ensuring pharmacies continue to be funded at the same rate as general practice
changes to funding arrangements to better support the delivery of core pharmacy services
“Pharmacists and pharmacy staff play a vital role in delivering healthcare in communities across New Zealand. They are often the most accessible health professionals in a community, helping people get advice, treatment, vaccinations, and medicines when they need them.
“This funding boost will help pharmacies continue providing the services communities rely on every day, while supporting them to meet growing demand and deliver more healthcare services locally.
“It also builds on the Government’s wider work to expand the role pharmacies play in the health system. Health New Zealand had previously committed $5 million a year to expand pharmacy clinical services. The increase to $11.9 million annually will enable pharmacists to provide funded medicines and treatment for more common conditions in the community.
“That means people can access treatment sooner for everyday health concerns including pain and fever management, oral rehydration, and conditions such as scabies, head lice and conjunctivitis.
“This access will reduce pressure on other parts of the health system
“This is all part of the Government’s plan to fix the basics and build the future of our healthcare system. We are backing the pharmacy workforce, expanding access to community-based services, and making it easier for New Zealanders to get the care they need, close to home.”
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/06/19/funding-boost-for-community-pharmacies/
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