PM Edition: Top 10 Business Articles on LiveNews.co.nz for October 20, 2026 – Full Text

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 October 2026 – Solomon Credit Management (“Solomon”) and SACH Pte Ltd (“SACH”) today announced plans to establish a joint venture to identify, secure distribution rights for and distribute consumer brands across the wellness, medical technology, health technology and lifestyle industries. BUZUD, a Singapore-based healthcare technology company, has appointed SACH as an authorised distributor in Singapore, with Solomon expected to join the distributorship.

The partnership aims to connect healthcare brands with consumers seeking everyday tools to monitor and manage their health. In Singapore, 21.4% of citizens were aged 65 and above in June 2026, underscoring the need for accessible health and wellness solutions. The global wellness economy reached US$6.8 trillion in 2024 and is projected to approach US$9.8 trillion by 2029.

SACH brings experience in technology, e-commerce, retail, consumer engagement and live events, helping brands reach consumers through online and offline channels. Solomon, an independent business financing firm, will serve as Capital Partner, contributing capital and commercial and financial expertise to support distribution and expansion.

The companies intend to develop the partnership in stages: Solomon first supports SACH’s distribution of BUZUD as Capital Partner, then joins the distributorship, before both parties establish a dedicated business unit to secure distribution rights and distribute brands across multiple territories. Key terms and responsibilities are being finalised.

BUZUD focuses on accessible healthcare through medical devices and digital health technologies. It has a research collaboration with Tan Tock Seng Hospital to develop AI-supported diabetes management solutions combining carbohydrate estimation with continuous glucose monitoring. BUZUD also operates retail outlets at Raffles Hospital and Novena Square 2, alongside a retail partnership with Guardian Singapore.

Distribution will begin in Singapore, with expansion into other Southeast Asian markets as rights are secured, through e-commerce, retail, live events and partnerships with businesses, hospitals and research bodies.

“We strongly believe capital should do more than support business growth — it should create opportunities and meaningful impact. Our partnership with SACH represents a strategic step into the fast-growing healthcare and wellness sector, where we see tremendous long-term potential. By combining our financial expertise with SACH’s distribution capabilities, we aim to help promising brands like BUZUD expand their reach, scale sustainably and bring innovative healthcare solutions closer to the people who need them,” said Liong Qin Kai, Partner, Solomon Credit Management.

“Great healthcare products only create impact when they reach the people who need them. Our partnership with Solomon marks an important step for SACH into the healthcare and wellness sector, combining their financial strength with our distribution and consumer engagement capabilities. BUZUD is the first of many brands we hope to bring to market, helping them expand their reach, build lasting relationships with customers and make innovative healthcare solutions more accessible across Southeast Asia,” said Jonathan Zhang, CEO, SACH.

The partners are targeting completion of the proposed arrangement in December 2026, with further details to be announced once terms are finalised.

Hashtag: #SACH

About Solomon Credit Management

About SACH

University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce received three distinguished awards for educational excellence, national contribution, and leadership.

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 October 2026 – University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) has been conferred awards in three categories at the ACES (Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability) Awards 2026: Premier Educational Institutions in Asia, Nation Builder Award, and Outstanding Leaders in Asia, the last of which was granted to President, Assoc. Prof. Thanavath Phonvichai, Ph.D. The awards will be presented at the ACES awarding ceremony on 15–16 October 2026 at the Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The awards affirm UTCC’s position as a top private university in ASEAN and the best private university in Thailand. UTCC welcomes students from around the globe to study in Thailand, integrating academic learning with real-world business practice. Located in the heart of Bangkok, the campus places students at the center of Thailand’s economic activity, providing valuable exposure to industry leaders, businesses, and professional opportunities.

Operating under its “AI University, Practice University, Happy University, and International University” framework, UTCC has the highest rate of Google-certified faculty in Generative AI in Thailand and has maintained the Apple Distinguished School status for 15 consecutive years. With 92% of graduates employed within a year, the university pairs digital capability with strong career outcomes and ranks among Thailand’s most internationally diverse campuses.

Under the leadership of Assoc. Prof. Thanavath Phonvichai, Ph.D., UTCC has reached its highest student enrollment in 19 years and its strongest financial performance in over 6 decades. As the founder of the university’s Center for Economic and Business Forecasting (CEBF), he is among Thailand’s most widely cited voices on the economy.

The Nation Builder Award recognizes UTCC’s contribution to national development focusing on the RIECE Thailand, a peer-reviewed early-childhood programme supporting rural communities.

“These honours belong to our students, faculty, and the wider Thai Chamber of Commerce community,” said Assoc. Prof. Thanavath Phonvichai, Ph.D., President of UTCC. “They affirm our belief that combining academic excellence with hands-on practice can prepare future-ready graduates while helping to build a stronger nation.”

Hashtag: #UTCC #ACESAward

University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce

Founded in 1963 by the Thai Chamber of Commerce, University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) is a private university in Bangkok, Thailand, connecting education directly to the real economy. Backed by its AI-First approach, extensive industry partnerships, and the 263,785-member Thai Chamber of Commerce network, UTCC prepares entrepreneurial graduates ready for a fast-changing economy in Thailand and across the region.

Over 200 job openings brought by 50+ leading employers from Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland to global professionals in the UK.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 October 2026 – The Hong Kong · Global Talent & Career Showcase was organised by Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE) on 17 and 18 October 2026 at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre in London. The showcase was supported by the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Office and the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London. Over 200 quality job openings offered by more than 50 leading enterprises from Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland, with more than 4,500 visits recorded.

Multi-Sector Engagement

The showcase featured job vacancies across banking and finance, innovation and technology (I&T), engineering and construction, and professional services. Attendees engaged directly with HR representatives from renowned enterprises in Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland. The event also featured forums and workshops, where government representatives and business leaders shared insights on Hong Kong’s development advantages, talent landscape and market trends, while experienced HR representatives offered practical job-seeking tips and career advice.

In his opening remarks, the Director of HKTE, Mr Felix Chan, said that the showcase enabled global talent to learn about career development in Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland, and exchange and match jobs directly with enterprises. HKTE will continue to promote Hong Kong worldwide, and attract talent with skills required for the development of the country and Hong Kong in a targeted manner.

A representative of a participating enterprise opined that the showcase facilitated them to connect with global talent directly as well as identify suitable candidates with a global mindset and cross-cultural collaboration experience, thereby supporting business expansion.

Why Hong Kong

Hong Kong is strengthening its position as an I&T centre and an international hub for high-calibre talent. As a “super connector”, Hong Kong is deeply integrated with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and connected to extensive international network, generating immense opportunities for global talent.

Looking Ahead

The recent London career showcase is one of over 100 outreach visits conducted by HKTE. In the coming year, HKTE will continue its promotional activities across the Chinese Mainland, Asia-Pacific, Europe and North America, partnering with Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland enterprises to go global together, and facilitate targeted matching between enterprises and global talent.

Hong Kong welcomes global talent. Interested talent can learn more about talent admission schemes in Hong Kong and upcoming events of HKTE at [www.hkengage.gov.hk].

Hashtag: #HongKongTalentEngage

About Hong Kong Talent Engage

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 October 2026 – Corporate leadership is measured by how businesses compete while managing environmental responsibilities, developing people and building resilience.

Thai companies demonstrated this at the 13th Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability (ACES) Awards 2026, held on 15 and 16 October at Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur.

The theme, “Beyond Business”, reflects a broader definition of corporate excellence, combining commercial performance with responsible leadership and lasting value creation.

For MORS Group, the organisation behind ACES, Thailand’s businesses demonstrate how industrial strength, innovation and operational expertise can create economic and societal value.

DHL Supply Chain Thailand was named ACES Enterprise of the Year and recognised among Top Green Companies in Asia. Its CEO, Steve Walker, received recognition under Asia’s Most Inspiring Executives.

The company’s recognition highlights the role of responsible logistics in supporting business growth and environmental progress.

The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce was recognised among Premier Educational Institutions in Asia and received the Nation Builder Award. Its president, Assoc. Prof. Thanavath Phonvichai, Ph.D., also received the Outstanding Leaders in Asia award.

Practika Co., Ltd. received the Inspiring Workplaces in Asia award after being recognised under Responsible SMEs in Asia in 2025. Its return highlights continued progress in workplace development and responsible business practices.

Together, these honourees reflect the different ways Thai organisations are contributing to responsible business and leadership.

“Thailand’s corporate landscape offers compelling examples of how commercial performance, innovation and responsible leadership can work together,” said Dr Shanggari Balakrishnan, chief executive officer of MORS Group.

MORS Group is building its regional role beyond awards through an ecosystem spanning recognition, research, sustainability advisory, strategic communications and technology.

Its platforms include ACES Institute, Aubrens, Beacons and MORS Technologies.

ACES Awards 2026 received 1,238 nominations from 35 countries across 45 industries, reflecting its regional reach.

The wider ambition is to spotlight exemplary business practices across Asia and make responsible leadership a competitive strength.

Hashtag: #ACESAward

ACES Awards

The Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability (ACES) Awards is a regional platform recognising outstanding leaders, organisations and sustainability champions across Asia. Its 13th annual edition received nominations from 35 countries, celebrating responsible leadership, corporate excellence and sustainability practices that create meaningful, lasting value.

Source: Government House

Tomorrow, the Governor-General, Her Excellency The Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, will present Royal New Zealand Honours to 20 recipients at two investiture ceremonies in the Limes Room of the Christchurch Town Hall.

Those being recognised include Māori artist and carver Riki Manuel, community law advocate Jenny Hughey, paediatrician Associate Professor Nicola Austin, former Commonwealth Games medallist Barbara Beable, athletics coach Dr Michael Beable, and financial literacy entrepreneur Kendall Flutey.

Others receiving their insignia include conservation volunteers, community leaders, educators, athletics officials, and supporters of the arts and youth organisations.

The ceremonies will take place on Tuesday 20 October at 10am and 3pm. See the full recipient lists below.

• Media must register attendance at least 2 hours before the ceremony.
• For security purposes, we require the names and phone numbers of all personnel attending from your organisation.
• Media should arrive no later than 30 minutes before each ceremony (9.30am and 2.30pm).
• Media are reminded that a reasonable standard of dress is expected.

Note: Government House can provide images of recipients to media on request. Images can also be downloaded from https://www.gg.govt.nz within 6 hours of the ceremony’s completion. Video will be posted on our website within 48 hours of the ceremony.

List of recipients

Tuesday 20 October 10am

• Mr Riki Manuel, of Christchurch, CNZM for services to Māori art
• Ms Jenny Hughey, of Christchurch, ONZM for services to community law and governance
• Mr Terry Nicholas, of Winton, MNZM for services to Māori and governance
• Mr Trevor Spittle, of Christchurch, MNZM for services to athletics
• Mrs Agnes Abuel-Guda, JP, of Rolleston, KSM for services to the Filipino community
• Mr Graeme Kates, of Arthur’s Pass National Park, KSM for services to conservation and the community
• Mr Leigh Martin, JP, of Rolleston, KSM for services to brass bands
• Mrs Barb Simpson, of Queenstown, KSM for services to conservation and the community
• Mr Noel Walker, of Te Anau, KSM for services to Scouts and the community
• Mrs Sue Walker, of Te Anau, KSM for services to Scouts and the community

Tuesday 20 October 3pm

• Associate Professor Nicola Austin, of Christchurch, ONZM for services to children’s health
• Mrs Barbara Beable, of Wānaka, MNZM for services to athletics
• Dr Michael Beable, of Wānaka, MNZM for services to athletics
• Ms Kendall Flutey, of Christchurch, MNZM for services to business and financial literacy
• Pāpā Ruawhitu Pokaia, of Christchurch, MNZM for services to Māori and education
• Mrs Barbara Astill, JP, of Auckland, KSM for services to women, the community and governance
• Mrs Sue Breen, of Rolleston, KSM for services to gifted children education
• Mr Douglas Brenssell, of Oamaru, KSM for services to the community
• Reverend Tapita Ching, of Richmond, KSM for services to the Pacific community and education
• Mrs Miriam Spragg, of Christchurch, KSM for services to barbershop singing and music administration

This list of recipients is correct on Monday 19 October and may be subject to change.

Only 1 in 10 are very confident they know the interest rate their bank accounts pay

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 October 2026 – Three in four Singaporeans with spare cash do not believe it is working as hard as it could, according to new research commissioned by Chocolate Finance and conducted by independent research company Milieu. That uncertainty also extends to what the money is actually for: seven in ten have no plan for when they will use it.

The survey of 1,000 Singapore residents found that 89% of respondents hold spare cash. Among them, nearly half (48%) had looked at their cashback or reward points in the past six months, compared with 37% who checked the interest rate on their spare cash. CPF balances and discounts, vouchers or promo codes also received more attention than spare cash rates.

The findings point to an attention gap. Singaporeans are actively looking for value in the money they spend, but what their spare cash earns can receive less scrutiny and attention, once that money has been set aside.

“We’ve always known that Singaporeans want more from their spare cash. What this research proves is just how many people don’t actually know what their money is earning. People move their money around for an attractive welcome offer, but once that offer ends, the money often just sits there, earning very little. And many don’t even realise it. We created Chocolate Finance to change that,” said Walter de Oude, Founder and CEO of Chocolate Finance.

Visible rewards are winning more attention
Part of the difference comes down to visibility. Cashback, rewards and discounts provide an immediate and obvious benefit, whether at checkout, when points appear in an account, or in monthly statements. The return on spare cash, however, is less visible and can happen quietly in the background.

This makes it easier for a few dollars saved on a purchase to command more attention, while the return on a much larger pool of cash receives less scrutiny. The result is not a lack of financial engagement, but an imbalance in where that attention is going.

More financial choice makes clarity more important
Keeping track of spare cash can become harder when that money is spread across several places. Singaporeans use an average of 3.7 named banks and financial platforms, spanning traditional banks, digital banks and wealth or cash-management platforms.

Whilst more financial options can create greater choice, the findings suggest that simply having more places to put money does not necessarily make that money easier to understand. Only one in ten respondents (11%) are very confident they know the interest rate their bank accounts pay, with the majority 89% indicating that they are not fully confident.

When money is spread across several providers and people are unclear about what those accounts are paying, individual pools of spare cash can become easier to lose sight of how each fits into a bigger picture. This raises the question: beyond knowing where the money sits, do people know what they actually want that money to do?

Giving spare cash a purpose can change behaviour
For many Singaporeans, that purpose is not clear yet. Some 72% of spare cash holders either describe it as money for “one day, eventually” or do not think about timing at all, while only 29% of respondents separate all their money into clear categories for different purposes.

Giving the money a specific goal could change that behaviour. When asked how they would behave if they could separate their spare cash into categories for specific goals, 59% said they would be more likely to leave it untouched and let it grow.

That insight is behind Chocolate Finance’s new Jars feature, launching in November 2026. Jars allow customers to separate their spare cash into different ‘pots’ for goals such as an emergency fund, a holiday or a home. Instead of treating spare cash as one pool, each Jar gives the money a clearer purpose and timeframe.

Walter added: “What really stands out is that Singaporeans are already putting money aside, but many don’t have a clear plan for what that money is for. And when people give their spare cash a purpose, they’re more likely to leave it alone and let it grow. That’s a really important insight, and exactly why we’re launching Jars. We want to make it easier for people to turn their spare cash into something they’re actually working towards.”

Saving money is only the first step
Taken together, the findings point to a gap between actively saving money and deciding what happens to it next. Once money has been set aside, it can become less visible, spread across different providers and disconnected from a clear goal. The common thread is clarity: knowing what each pool of spare cash is for and what it needs to do.

This does not mean every dollar should chase the highest possible return. It means making a deliberate decision about the role of that money, rather than letting spare cash become something that has simply been saved and then forgotten.

Conclusively, Singaporeans who already have money set aside should be asking themselves not “how much have I saved” but rather “Is this money doing the job I need it to do?”
https://www.chocolatefinance.com/
https://sg.linkedin.com/company/chocolatefinance
https://x.com/ChocFinance
https://www.facebook.com/chocolatefinance/
https://www.instagram.com/chocolatefinance/

Hashtag: #ChocolateFinance #SpareCash

Chocolate Finance

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 October 2026 – Profitability alone is no longer enough to define corporate excellence.

As businesses face rising expectations around sustainability, governance and long-term resilience, Malaysian companies must show not just how successfully they grow, but how responsibly they lead.

That shift defines the 13th Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability (ACES) Awards 2026, which brought together Asian business leaders in Kuala Lumpur on 15 and 16 October.

Under the theme “Beyond Business”, the awards recognise companies combining commercial achievement with responsible leadership, people development and lasting value creation.

For MORS Group, the organisation behind ACES, the ambition extends beyond celebrating winners.

It identifies businesses setting new standards for excellence.

Among Malaysia’s honourees, Pacific Inter-Link Sdn Bhd was recognised among Asia’s Most Influential Companies in 2024 and 2026.

Its Chairman and Group CEO, Dato’ (Dr) Fouad Hayel Saeed Anam, also received the Outstanding Leaders in Asia award.

Cahya Mata Sarawak Berhad received Industry Champions of the Year.

YTY Industry Sdn Bhd received the Sustainability Rising Star Award, while Sunway Medical Centre Penang has been recognised among Premier Healthcare Providers in Asia.

“Malaysia continues to demonstrate that corporate competitiveness and responsible leadership can reinforce one another,” said Dr Shanggari Balakrishnan, chief executive officer of MORS Group.

“The continued recognition of companies across multiple editions underscores the importance of sustaining excellence rather than treating it as a one-off achievement.”

MORS Group is positioning itself beyond awards through an ecosystem spanning recognition, research, sustainability advisory, strategic communications and technology.

Its platforms include ACES Institute, Aubrens, Beacons and MORS Technologies.

The scale of ACES Awards 2026 reflects its regional reach: 1,238 nominations from 35 countries across 45 industries, representing organisations with revenue exceeding US$500 billion and a workforce of more than one million employees.

After recognition, the question is whether the practices that distinguish leading companies can help raise standards across Asia and make responsible leadership a defining feature of business, not an optional extra.

Hashtag: #ACESAwards

ACES Awards

The Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability (ACES) Awards is a regional platform recognising outstanding leaders, organisations and sustainability champions across more than 25 Asian countries and regions. Now in its 13th annual edition, ACES celebrates responsible leadership, corporate excellence and sustainability practices that create meaningful, long-term value.