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For Filipino households—particularly low-income families—this offers a rare reprieve from months of financial

_with legal checklist & estimated minimum investment in Manila Quick overview — the 8 core steps to start your business in Manila Validate idea & build a short business plan  (market, costs, revenue model, breakeven). Choose a business structure  — sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, branch/representative office, or register in a special economic zone. Register your business name  (DTI for sole proprietorship; SEC for corporations). ( BNRS , Philippines Business Registration ) Secure local permits  — barangay clearance, Mayor’s permit / Business Permit (City of Manila), fire & sanitary permits, occupancy/lease documentation. ( Emerhub ) Register with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)  — get a TIN, register books of accounts, and authority to print official receipts/invoices. ( Philippines Business Registration ) Register employees & contributions  — SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG employer accounts and withholdings. ( RESPICIO & CO. ) Industry-specific licenses  — FDA (food/health), DOT (tourism), Bureau of Customs (imports), environmental permits, BOI/PEZA registration if seeking incentives. ( Philippines Business Registration , Wikipedia ) Open a business bank account, set up accounting, and launch. Detailed step-by-step Step A — Plan & choose structure Sole proprietorship  (DTI) — easiest & fastest for micro/small retail or e-commerce. Corporation (stock)  (SEC) — recommended for growth, multiple shareholders, or foreign investors. Corporations give limited liability and easier access to capital. Branch / Representative Office  — for foreign parents that want presence without a local corporation (these have specific capital rules). ** Register with the right agency: DTI  for sole proprietorship business names; SEC  for partnerships & corporations; CDA  for cooperatives. ( BNRS , Philippines Business Registration ) Step B — Reserve & register the business name Use the DTI Business Name Registry (BNRS) for sole proprietorships; SEC name reservation for corporations. You can do many of these steps online. ( BNRS ) Step C — Barangay clearance & Mayor’s permit (City of Manila) After name & national registration, apply for barangay clearance  (local barangay office) and Mayor’s permit (business permit)  from the City of Manila Business Permits & Licensing Office. You will usually need: lease contract / proof of address, identity documents, SEC/DTI papers, and barangay clearance. Processing times have improved under the Ease of Doing Business law but requirements vary by LGU. ( Emerhub , RESPICIO & CO. ) Step D — BIR registration (tax) Register your business with BIR  for TIN, register books of accounts, obtain authority to print official receipts, and learn whether you must register as VAT or non-VAT (thresholds apply). There’s an annual registration fee and specific documentary requirements. ( Philippines Business Registration ) Step E — Social & payroll registrations SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG  registrations as employer — enroll employees and set up contribution remittances. These are mandatory once you start hiring. ( RESPICIO & CO. ) Step F — Industry permits & compliance Food / Health / Cosmetics  → Philippine FDA licensing (product registration, sanitary permits). Import/Export  → Bureau of Customs registration, and consider PEZA/BOI  if you seek tax incentives or are export-oriented. ( Philippines Business Registration , Wikipedia ) Legal considerations (must-know) Licensing & sector limits Some sectors are restricted or require Filipino ownership  (e.g., certain utilities, land, mass media). Check the latest Negative List and sectoral rules before structuring ownership. ( ASEAN Briefing ) Foreign ownership & minimum-capital rules (important) Domestic Filipino corporations:  statutory minimum paid-up capital is very low (₱5,000) on paper, but real capital needed depends on the business. ( incorporation.ph ) Foreign-owned companies : typical  rule of thumb: a minimum paid-up capital ≈ US$200,000  for companies serving the domestic market. This can be reduced to US$100,000  if the business employs at least 50 Filipinos or involves advanced technology, or if registered in certain economic zones or as an export enterprise. Export-oriented firms that meet export thresholds may be allowed 100% foreign ownership with much lower paid-up capital (even PHP 5,000) but will need extra documentation and approvals. Always confirm the precise classification and documentary requirements with SEC/BOI. ( RESPICIO & CO. , Emerhub , FilePino ) Tip:  "If you’re a foreign entrepreneur, discuss entity type (local corp vs branch vs PEZA) with a lawyer — structuring determines capital rules, tax incentives, and allowed activities". Tax & incentives The Philippines introduced major tax incentive reforms to attract investment (new corporate tax rates and longer incentives for registered projects). Businesses that register with the BOI  or locate in PEZA  zones can access fiscal incentives (tax holidays, duty-free importation of capital equipment) — useful when planning investment sizing. ( Reuters , Philippines Business Registration ) Minimum investment — realistic numbers & examples Short answer:  "It depends strongly on the structure and sector. below are typical  ranges and factual thresholds to guide planning". A. Micro / Sole proprietorship (local founder) Legal minimum:  DTI registration and statutory minimum capital can be very low — effectively you can start a micro retail or online service business with under ₱50,000–₱200,000  for basic setup (business registration fees, signage, small inventory, web presence). (This is a practical startup estimate — exact needs vary.)  ( BNRS ) B. Domestic corporation (Filipino-owned) Statutory paid-up capital:  ₱5,000 minimum on paper, but practical initial capital should be higher depending on operations (rent, staff, inventory, equipment). ( incorporation.ph ) C. Foreign-owned domestic market company Common rule of thumb:   US$200,000 paid-up capital  for typical domestic business. Exemptions/reductions:   US$100,000  if the company uses advanced technology or employs at least 50 people; lower  if export-oriented or inside PEZA/SEZ. Confirm with SEC/BOI/practitioner. ( RESPICIO & CO. , Emerhub ) D. Retail foreign investors Certain retail activities have separate minimum investment thresholds (example: historically large minimums like US$2.5M for some foreign retail setups) — check the Retail Trade Liberalization and current implementing rules. ( HKTDC Research ) Reality check:  even if the statutory minimum is low, realistic startup capital should cover at least 6 months of operating costs (rent, payroll, utilities, marketing, inventory). For Manila, factor in higher rents than secondary cities. Practical timeline & costs (typical) Name reservation & DTI/SEC filing:  1–7 days (online options speed this up). ( BNRS ) Barangay & Mayor’s permit:  a few days to 2 weeks depending on LGU inspections and completeness of documents. ( Emerhub ) BIR registration:  usually within days if docs are correct. ( Philippines Business Registration ) Industry licensing (FDA / environmental):  can take weeks to months depending on product approvals. Compliance checklist (what to prepare & keep handy) Valid IDs (passport for foreigners), TIN (once registered), lease contract or land title, DTI/SEC certificate, barangay clearance, Mayor’s permit, BIR registration & receipts, Social Security/PhilHealth/Pag-IBIG employer accounts, fire safety clearance, sanitary permit, industry-specific approvals (FDA, DOT, etc.), BOI/PEZA paperwork (if applicable). Useful contacts & help DTI BNRS  (business name registration portal). ( BNRS ) SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission)  — for incorporations & foreign company filings. ( Philippines Business Registration ) City of Manila Business Permits & Licensing Office  (for Mayor’s permit and local requirements). ( Emerhub ) BIR  (tax registration). ( Philippines Business Registration ) BOI / PEZA  — for incentives if you’re planning export, manufacturing or strategic investments. ( Philippines Business Registration , Wikipedia ) Final tips — do this before you start Speak to a local CPA and lawyer  — tax structure, foreign-ownership rules and incentives are area-specific and can materially affect your capital needs. Visit the DTI Negosyo Center  in Manila — they offer guidance for MSMEs and can help with initial registrations. ( BNRS ) Consider a phased launch : start small (sole proprietorship or branch for non-revenue activities) while you validate demand; then scale into a corporation once revenue is stable. Explore incentives  (BOI/PEZA) — they can reduce your effective investment and operating costs but come with compliance strings attached. ( Reuters , Philippines Business Registration ) Sources / further reading (key official & practical references) DTI Business Name Registry (BNRS) — business name registration & resources. ( BNRS ) Philippines business registration steps & BIR guide. ( Philippines Business Registration ) Mayor’s permit & barangay clearance process overview (Emerhub on Philippines). ( Emerhub ) Paid-up capital rules & foreign investor practical guidance ( incorporation.ph / respicio). ( incorporation.ph , RESPICIO & CO. ) BOI incentives & registration overview. ( Philippines Business Registration ) Recent tax reform & incentive changes (Reuters summary of Corporate tax reform to attract investment). ( Reuters ) _ Daily Growth Insights

In a rapidly shifting global landscape, the influence of regions Beyond Asia  is growing more pronounced. While Asia continues to play a central role in trade, technology, and geopolitics, 2025 is witnessing a broader redistribution of power, innovation, and climate leadership across continents. From Africa's rise in renewable energy to Latin America's assertive economic strategies, change is unfolding far beyond traditional power centers. This article provides a timely update on how the world is evolving Beyond Asia , offering key insights into the future of global governance, economy, and diplomacy. "Power Shifts in a Multipolar World" In 2025, the world is no longer dominated by a unipolar or even bipolar system — Beyond Asia , new power centers are emerging in Africa, Latin America, and parts of Europe. While the U.S. and China remain central actors, countries like Brazil, Nigeria, and Turkey are increasingly asserting global influence through trade alliances, green energy investments, and regional security initiatives. Beyond Asia’s traditional focus on East-West dynamics, this broader geopolitical recalibration is creating opportunities—and tensions—across new fault lines. "Global Economic Realignment" Beyond Asia , economic momentum is being rebalanced as inflation eases in the West but surges in resource-rich developing nations. The IMF recently projected that emerging markets outside Asia  will grow at 3.8% in 2025 , compared to 2.5% in developed economies. Meanwhile, Asia remains a key manufacturing and tech hub, but Beyond Asia , reshoring efforts and nearshoring policies are gaining pace in the Americas and Eastern Europe—reshaping global supply chains. Global GDP Growth Forecasts (2025) - Beyond Asia Region Projected Growth Key Driver Southeast Asia 4.7% Tech exports, tourism Sub-Saharan Africa 4.2% Renewable energy Latin America 3.5% Agritech, mining North America 2.4% Manufacturing reshoring Europe 1.9% Green policy transitions "Climate Leadership Beyond Asia" As climate disasters escalate globally , leadership Beyond Asia  is diversifying. While Asian countries like Japan and South Korea invest heavily in carbon capture and green hydrogen, nations beyond Asia , including Chile, Denmark, and Kenya, are becoming climate tech trailblazers. Notably, Denmark now sources 76% of its electricity from renewables , and Kenya has launched Africa's first geothermal-powered data center. These shifts Beyond Asia are creating new models of climate resilience and decentralized clean tech solutions. "Tech and AI Innovation Expanding Globally" Tech advancement isn’t confined to Silicon Valley or Shenzhen anymore. Beyond Asia , AI and biotech ecosystems are rising in cities like Toronto, Tel Aviv, Nairobi, and São Paulo. With regulatory frameworks still catching up, Beyond Asia is seeing experimentation in open-source AI , digital identity , and blockchain voting systems . India remains a tech leader in Asia, but Beyond Asia’s decentralization of innovation is driving unexpected collaborations and cross-border tech diplomacy. "Diplomacy and the Future of Global Governance" In this evolving world, Beyond Asia , diplomacy is shifting toward inclusive multilateralism. Organizations like BRICS+  and the African Union  are increasingly pushing for expanded representation in global institutions like the UN and IMF. Meanwhile, Asia’s voice remains powerful, but the growing activism Beyond Asia—from indigenous leaders in Latin America to women-led policy shifts in Scandinavia—signals a future global order rooted in shared governance and decentralized leadership. _ Daily Growth Insights

Wall Street opened the new year on uneven ground as energy and technology stocks posted early gains , lifting major US indices. Rising crude oil prices fueled an energy-sector rally, while tech shares provided additional support—offering investors a cautiously optimistic start to 2026. However, beneath the surface, market confidence remains fragile. Energy and Tech Drive Early Momentum Energy stocks led gains after crude prices moved higher, improving earnings outlooks for oil and gas companies. The rally provided a boost to major indices, particularly those with heavy exposure to energy producers. Technology stocks also contributed to early strength, supported by continued optimism around innovation, AI-related investments, and resilient demand for digital services. Despite the positive opening, analysts caution that broader uncertainties continue to weigh on market sentiment. Key concerns include: Inflation trends and interest rate expectations Global economic growth outlook Geopolitical risks and energy supply dynamics These factors have kept investors selective, preventing a broad-based rally across sectors. Investor Caution Shapes Early 2026 Market participants appear focused on balancing opportunity with risk. While select sectors show momentum, others remain under pressure, reflecting uncertainty about corporate earnings growth and policy direction in the months ahead. This cautious tone suggests that volatility may remain a defining feature of early 2026 trading. What to Watch Next? As the year unfolds, investors will closely monitor: Upcoming inflation and employment data Central bank guidance on interest rates Corporate earnings reports for Q1 These indicators are likely to determine whether early gains can be sustained—or if markets face renewed pullbacks. The US stock market’s mixed start to 2026 reflects a familiar theme: optimism in pockets, caution overall. While energy and tech have provided early leadership, broader market strength will depend on clarity around economic conditions and policy direction in the weeks ahead. For now, investors are stepping into 2026 with one eye on opportunity—and the other firmly on risk. #USStocksMarket2026 _ Daily Growth Insights

Key drivers behind the expected IPO growth include: Stabilizing interest rates , making equity financing

Reduced institutional demand: Investment from large financial entities has slowed, affecting market volatility is part of crypto’s DNA, and understanding its dynamics is key to thriving in this evolving financial

Money Mindset: From Scarcity to Abundance Your financial reality is often shaped as much by your thoughts Constant comparison with others and anxiety about financial security. Harv Eker , author of Secrets of the Millionaire Mind , explains, our inner financial blueprint often Avoid negative financial conversations that reinforce fear. Money  – Jen Sincero These books guide you in identifying scarcity habits and rewiring your brain for financial

Source: Ycharts The global equity markets are buzzing with anticipation as the S&P 500 edges closer to the 6000 benchmark—an all-time high that signals investor optimism and resilient economic sentiment. According to **MarketPulse**, the recent surge is largely driven by upbeat corporate earnings, easing inflationary pressures, and positive economic data in North America. Much of this momentum is attributed to market speculation around the **Bank of Canada’s** upcoming interest rate decision. Analysts predict that the central bank may consider holding or even lowering rates in response to recent data indicating a cooling labor market and easing price growth. Such a move would echo a more dovish stance and inject further confidence into equity markets. Global Context While the S&P 500 remains the focal point, this bullish sentiment is mirrored across other major indices. Tech stocks, in particular, have been major contributors to the index's growth, with AI, semiconductor, and fintech companies posting strong quarterly results. Meanwhile, bond yields have slightly eased, reflecting expectations that rate hikes are either on pause or nearing an end—a signal that capital may continue flowing into equities in the short term. Market Implications For investors and businesses, this is a critical juncture. A confirmed policy shift by the Bank of Canada could set the tone for other central banks, including the Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank. It also presents opportunities for portfolio rebalancing as asset classes respond to shifting monetary policy. What to Watch? Bank of Canada Interest Rate Announcement U.S. CPI and Jobs Data Tech Earnings Reports Global Monetary Policy Trends As the S&P 500 inches toward the symbolic 6000 mark, markets appear cautiously optimistic. However, all eyes remain on central banks and their next moves—highlighting the delicate balance between economic growth and inflation control. _Daily Growth Insights

The Roots: A Non-Tipping Culture Traditionally, Vietnamese culture did not include tipping . Service was seen as part of one’s duty or job, not something that required extra payment. Hospitality — especially in rural areas — was rooted in respect, kindness, and community spirit. A guest was often treated like family, and offering extra money could even be seen as awkward or offensive. The phrase “Không cần đâu”  (No need) reflected this modest attitude. However, over the past two decades, Vietnam’s economy and tourism industry have transformed dramatically — and so has its service mindset. Tourism’s Influence: The Western Effect Vietnam welcomed over 12 million international visitors in 2023, many from tipping cultures such as the U.S., Europe, and Australia. Tourists often leave small gratuities — not out of obligation, but as a gesture of appreciation. For local workers, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, this behavior set new expectations . What began as a kind token soon became an informal norm. Drivers, tour guides, massage therapists, and hotel staff gradually began expecting small tips because of their exposure to global practices — not because it’s inherently Vietnamese. Economic Realities Behind the Ask Beyond cultural influence, economics plays a major role .  Service industry wages in Vietnam are often modest, with many workers relying on tips as an unofficial income supplement. For example: A restaurant worker may earn around 5–7 million VND/month  (USD 200–280). A tour guide might rely on tips to double their income. In this context, asking for a tip isn’t rudeness — it’s practicality. It reflects the gap between rising living costs and stagnant wages, especially in sectors tied to tourism. Changing Perceptions: From Awkward to Appreciated Among younger generations, tipping is no longer taboo. Many see it as a fair exchange for extra effort, friendliness, or attention to detail.  Restaurants in urban areas even add “service charges” to bills — something rare 10 years ago. Still, outside major cities, tipping remains uncommon. A smile, polite words, or simple “thank you” ( cảm ơn bạn ) often means more than cash. When & How to Tip in Vietnam If you’re visiting or living in Vietnam, here’s what’s respectful and appreciated: ✅ Restaurants:  Small cafes or local spots — no tip expected. Upscale restaurants — 5–10% if service is good.  ✅ Hotels:  Bellboys (10,000–20,000 VND), housekeeping (similar amount for extended stays).  ✅ Taxi/Grab drivers:  Rounding up the fare is fine.  ✅ Massage/Beauty services:  10–15% for quality service.  ✅ Street vendors:  Tipping is unnecessary — a friendly chat means more. "The key? Offer tips voluntarily, not out of pressure". A Blend of Culture and Modern Economy The growing tipping culture in Vietnam  isn’t just about money — it’s about globalization, exposure, and adaptation. As Vietnam continues to blend tradition with modernity, small tips serve as a bridge between the old values of humility and the new reality of economic survival. Vietnam’s tipping behavior reflects a nation in transition — balancing cultural pride with global habits.  So, when someone asks for a little extra after service, it’s not always greed; sometimes, it’s gratitude for a rapidly changing world where every small gesture of appreciation still carries great meaning. #VietnamDestination _ Daily Growth Insights

subtle shifts in his tone could cause notable movements in gold prices, as businesses adjust their financial Business Financial Flow Under Pressure For businesses, gold prices are more than just a market trend—they directly affect financial planning and liquidity. Conversely, a hawkish stance could pressure gold lower but may stabilize business financial flows by

In the fast-moving world of technology, startups that can demonstrate scalability and global relevance are catching the attention of major investors. The latest funding news proves that the appetite for innovation is stronger than ever, as companies like GigaML and Atomicwork secure substantial early-stage investments from top-tier venture capital firms. Startups such as GigaML  and Atomicwork  have recently made headlines by attracting significant early-stage funding from global investment leaders, including Redpoint Ventures  and Khosla Ventures . This influx of capital not only validates their business models but also underscores the growing investor confidence in the scalability and international appeal of AI-driven and automation-focused companies. For GigaML , the investment is poised to accelerate product development and expand its reach into untapped markets. Specializing in machine learning infrastructure, GigaML has positioned itself as a key player in enabling enterprises to build, deploy, and scale advanced AI systems efficiently. Atomicwork , on the other hand, focuses on transforming workplace operations through automation and intelligent workflows. The company's innovative approach to streamlining processes for businesses across industries has captured the interest of global investors looking for scalable solutions with long-term impact. Industry analysts suggest that this funding wave reflects a broader shift toward supporting companies that combine technical expertise with clear market applications. With such backing, both GigaML and Atomicwork are poised to not only grow rapidly but also influence the next generation of enterprise solutions worldwide. _ Daily Growth Insights

World Wide Currency Markets Update — 1 January 2026 As the world rings in 1 January 2026 , currency markets reflect a mix of strategic policy changes, shifting global confidence, and macroeconomic pressures. From central bank decisions to local currency reforms, the start of 2026 offers a dynamic snapshot of the global foreign exchange environment. Here’s what’s moving currencies around the world as the New Year begins. 1. China Adjusts Its Currency Basket China’s foreign exchange authority, CFETS, officially updated its yuan currency basket weightings on January 1, 2026 — reducing the share of major currencies such as the U.S. dollar, euro, Japanese yen, and Australian dollar. At the same time, currencies like the Hong Kong dollar, Thai baht, and Korean won gained greater weighting, with the won now ranking third in the basket. This annual rebalance aims to improve the basket’s reflection of real global trade patterns and underscores Beijing’s ongoing efforts to internationalize the yuan. 2. U.S. Dollar: Weakness and Prospects The U.S. dollar enters 2026 with lingering weakness after a significant decline against major peers in 2025 — its largest in nearly a decade. This drop has been tied to expectations of Federal Reserve rate cuts and broader fiscal pressures." Market analysis suggests the dollar could still face volatility in early 2026 depending on policy shifts and global growth data — even as some forecasts see a potential rebound later in the year. 3. Major Currency Performances British Pound (GBP): The pound ended 2025 with one of its strongest performances against the dollar in years , climbing roughly 7.5%. However, it struggled versus the euro, driven by domestic economic concerns and Bank of England policy expectations. South African Rand (ZAR): The rand posted a strong annual gain of nearly 13% against the U.S. dollar , its best result in over a decade. Improved fiscal footing and export demand helped buoy the currency. Indian Rupee (INR): India’s currency entered 2026 on soft footing after its steepest annual drop in three years . A combination of equity outflows and policy shifts contributed to the depreciation. These currency outcomes highlight how both advanced and emerging markets have reacted to global monetary trends and local economic policies. 4. Currency Reforms and Redenomination Some countries are taking structural steps to reshape their currency’s role in the economy. Syria — grappling with longstanding hyperinflation — began a currency relaunch on January 1, removing zeros from banknotes and replacing Assad-era designs. While largely symbolic without deeper economic reforms, this move targets improved confidence in the Syrian pound. 5. Forecasts and Macro Trends Looking beyond the first day of 2026, exchange rate projections suggest moderate shifts for key global pairs in the coming quarters. For example, forecasts indicate pockets of strength for major currencies like the euro and British pound against the dollar, alongside a potential narrowing in USD/JPY ranges. Meanwhile, broad economic growth forecasts from international bodies predict moderating but steady global expansion , which influences currency expectations as investors reassess risk and carry trades. The start of 2026 sets a tone of transition for global currencies. Influenced by policy recalibrations, structural reforms, and shifting investor sentiment, the FX landscape suggests a year ahead with both opportunities and risks. Whether it’s central bank actions, emerging market performance, or structural currency changes, staying informed will be key for investors, economists, and global businesses as currencies continue to navigate post-pandemic economic realities. #CurrencyMarkets2026 _ Daily Growth Insights