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Ipsos, the index assessed 11 leading Asian cities  across 113 indicators grouped into seven categories: business infrastructure and connectivity; innovation and ideas; human capital diversity; cultural interaction; and business-friendly The city’s strong performance was driven by its commanding presence in business and economy , reflecting Business Advantage : Hong Kong’s lead reflects its strengths in finance, connectivity, and diversity—key

For decades, women in business have been told to “balance it all.” Their businesses are often extensions of their values, passions, and lifestyles — not separate compartments Instead of competing for limited opportunities, women-led businesses are building ecosystems of support Designing Businesses Around Well-being More and more, women founders are integrating wellness into their business DNA.

Amid growing climate urgency, renewable energy faces a new challenge: the phasing out of tax credits and rising financing costs in both the U.S. and Europe. Analysts warn these two headwinds could slow the industry’s growth just as global decarbonization efforts demand acceleration. U.S Looming Tax Credit Cliff In the U.S., a House budget reconciliation bill, nicknamed the "One Big Beautiful Bill," proposes an accelerated phaseout of key clean energy incentives included in the Inflation Reduction Act. Under this plan: Investment & Production Tax Credits (ITC/PTC):  Phase out begins end-2026, with full expiration by 2028 if projects haven’t started construction ( rechargenews.com , pv-magazine.com ). Residential Solar and Clean Fuel Credits:  Eliminated just six months after the bill is enacted ( mayerbrown.com ). Renewables Incentive Uncertainty:  Limitations on foreign component sourcing and shortened timelines may raise construction costs and limit eligibility ( reuters.com ). While developers may rush to start projects pre-credit cliff, analysts warn this creates a short-term boom followed by a longer-term slump ( subscriber.politicopro.com ). Europe Rising Interest Rates Pressure Financing European clean energy projects, especially offshore wind and solar farms, are already feeling the pressure from escalating interest rates: Financing Costs Surge:  Higher borrowing rates in Europe are increasing project financing costs, squeezing margins and deterring new investments. Market Response:  Leading firms like EDP Renováveis (EDPR) remain committed—planning 1.75 GW of U.S. wind capacity through 2026 despite U.S. uncertainties ( energynews.pro , reuters.com )—but caution is rising. Industry Impact Investment Slowdown:  With added uncertainty, large-scale projects may be delayed or canceled—especially facilities yet to initiate construction before deadlines. Higher Consumer Prices:  Many studies suggest without credits, electricity costs will increase, making solar and wind less competitive than fossil fuels . Supply Chain Constraints:  Additional FEOC rules restricting global sourcing could delay manufacturing and deployment ( mayerbrown.com ). Strategies for the Sector Speed Up Project Timelines:  Developers working aggressively to meet deadlines before credit phaseouts takes effect. Shift Financing Models:  Embracing alternative funding, such as green bonds or captive financing, to mitigate high interest costs. Advocacy Efforts:  Industry leaders are lobbying for more measured phaseouts and affordable financing mechanisms. Diversification & Localization:  Companies are exploring domestic manufacturing and cross-border markets to reduce risk. Renewables have achieved scale and cost parity, but the imminent phaseout of U.S. tax credits and elevated European financing rates pose tangible risks. Without swift policy support and innovative capital solutions, the clean-energy transition could stall—just as the planet demands it most. _Daily Growth Insights

Tokyo, June 21, 2025 – Japan is significantly broadening its Official Security Assistance (OSA) program in the 2025 fiscal year, extending defense exports to Thailand and seven other nations including East Timor, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Tonga, and more . Through its OSA initiative—launched in April 2023 and boosted by an ¥8.1 billion ($56 million) budget—Japan provides non-lethal defense equipment such as drones, radar systems, and maritime-surveillance assets. The goal is to support disaster relief capabilities and secure vital sea lanes across the Indo-Pacific  . During the Shangri-La Dialogue on June 1, Defense Minister Nakatani and Thailand’s Deputy PM/Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai reaffirmed the deepening Japan–Thailand defense partnership, which includes joint exercises like Cobra Gold and growing JSDF presence on Thai soil  . The move also reflects a broader shift in Japan’s post-war defense stance. Since 2014’s relaxation of arms export rules and the 2023 increase in OSA funding, Tokyo has been more assertive in expanding its international defense role. Japan is moving toward becoming a proactive security partner, especially amid rising maritime tensions in the region—particularly concerning China’s strategic posture  . Analysts believe these developments strengthen Indo-Pacific security architectures by enhancing partner countries’ operational capacity, deterring regional threats, and signaling Japan’s commitment to collective defense. The continuous evolution of Japan’s defense-export policy mirrors its ambitions to reinforce global and regional security partnerships. _Daily Growth Insights

If finalized, the agreement is likely to garner support from businesses, travelers, and environmental

Canada has officially outlined its key priorities for the upcoming G7 Leaders' Summi t, set to be held June 15–17 in Kananaskis, Alberta . In a comprehensive agenda released today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government emphasized global peace and security , energy security and digital transition , and sustainable infrastructure investments as the core themes for this year’s dialogue among the world’s leading democracies. This year’s summit arrives at a critical moment, as the international community grapples with geopolitical tensions, climate instability, and growing calls for digital and economic resilience. Canada’s 3 Core Priorities for the G7: 1. Global Peace and Security Canada aims to lead discussions on de-escalating global conflicts—particularly in Ukraine and the Middle East—while enhancing collective strategies to tackle hybrid threats like cyberattacks, disinformation, and terrorism. 2. Energy Security and Digital Transition In response to the global energy crunch and the rise of AI and digital economies, the G7 will explore strategies to secure clean energy supply chains and regulate emerging technologies responsibly. Canada is pushing for stronger cooperation on **AI ethics**, **grid modernization**, and **data protection**. 3. Infrastructure for Shared Prosperity The summit will also promote sustainable infrastructure investments across the Global South. Canada seeks G7 backing for new multilateral financing options to support climate-resilient transport, clean water systems, and broadband expansion in underserved regions. 🇨🇦 Hosting in Kananaskis: Symbolism & Legacy Kananaskis, known for hosting the 2002 G8 Summit, was chosen deliberately to reflect a return to democratic values and nature-driven diplomacy. Enhanced security measures and Indigenous participation will mark the 2025 edition. Trudeau stated, “This G7 is about forging unity in uncertainty. Canada is proud to host a summit focused on stability, innovation, and long-term prosperity. _Daily Growth Insights

In a sweeping joint operation across Asia, law enforcement agencies from six countries—Hong Kong, South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Maldives—arrested over 1,800 suspects by May 28, seizing nearly $20 million through the freezing of approximately 33,000 bank accounts. According to Hong Kong police, the crackdown targeted an extensive network of scam operations—including online shopping fraud, telephone schemes, investment scams, and sham employment offers—run through Asia-based scam hubs. Arrested individuals ranged from 14 to 81 years old, highlighting the widespread involvement in such syndicates  . In one high-profile incident in March, a Singaporean finance director was deceived into transferring $499,000 to a scammer impersonating their CEO via deepfake video. Fortunately, the funds were recovered thanks to swift cross-border cooperation  . Investigations revealed that many scam compounds are located in border regions of Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos, where workers are often held under conditions likened to “virtual slavery”  . A UN Office on Drugs and Crime report issued in April warned that these transnational crime networks are evolving rapidly, making them increasingly difficult to detect and dismantle  . This crackdown showcases the effectiveness of regional cooperation in combating large-scale financial crimes and signals a significant blow to organized scam networks operating across Asia.

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The transaction, valued at approximately \$9.5 billion on a fully diluted basis, includes a cash payment

ProPak Asia 2025 , Asia's premier trade event for the processing and packaging industry, is poised to make a significant impact with its focus on sustainability. Scheduled from June 11–14 at BITEC Bangkok, the event adopts the theme "Carbon-Neutral Pathways to a Sustainable Processing and Packaging Ecosystem," reflecting the industry's commitment to environmental responsibility. The 32nd edition of ProPak Asia emphasizes actionable strategies for achieving carbon neutrality in processing and packaging. The event aims to transition from aspirational goals to tangible frameworks that foster a truly sustainable ecosystem. Key Highlights and Features Future Food Corner: A platform exploring the integration of manufacturing and packaging technologies to shape the future of food systems. Lab & Test Theater: Showcasing advancements in laboratory technology, quality control, and testing methodologies. Packaging Design Clinic: Offering consultations on brand building, material selection, design aesthetics, and cost strategies for SMEs. Packaging Showcase: Featuring award-winning packaging solutions recognized by ThaiStar, AsiaStar, and WorldStar awards. Design Box: Highlighting innovative packaging designs by renowned designers like Somchana Kangwarnjit. AIP & PIDA Showcase: Presenting exemplary Australasian packaging achievements, focusing on eco-friendly materials and creative solutions. ProPak Asia 2025 is not only about showcasing innovations but also about implementing sustainable practices within the event itself: Digital Transformation: The event has adopted digital ticketing and e-badges to minimize paper usage. Eco-Friendly Booth Standards: Exhibitors are encouraged to design reusable structures and utilize energy-efficient lighting. Waste Reduction Initiatives: Attendees are urged to reduce waste by using reusable cups and minimizing packaging waste. Carbon Offsetting: Participants have the option to offset their travel emissions, contributing to the event's goal of becoming carbon neutral. ProPak Asia 2025 will host a series of seminars and forums, including the Global Packaging Forum and executive talks on future industry trends and sustainability. These sessions aim to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among industry leaders and stakeholders. ProPak Asia 2025 stands as a testament to the industry's dedication to sustainability, offering a platform for innovation, collaboration, and actionable solutions towards a carbon-neutral future in processing and packaging. _Daily Growth Insights

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and one of the world’s most influential philanthropists, has announced an ambitious new initiative: a \$200 billion donation plan over the next 20 years to combat some of the planet's most pressing issues. These include poverty, malnutrition, polio, and HIV—challenges Gates has long been dedicated to eradicating. The funds will be distributed through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which Gates co-chairs with his former wife, Melinda French Gates. The foundation, already one of the largest philanthropic organizations in the world, will double its annual spending , ramping up efforts in the global health and development sectors. What makes this announcement particularly significant is Gates' decision to accelerate his giving timeline . He aims to donate 99% of his wealth and has now set an official closure date for the foundation: 2045 . This move is designed to ensure a concentrated and impactful deployment of resources while preserving the foundation’s ability to address evolving global health needs. Speaking about the urgency of the plan, Gates cited a decline in international development aid from governments and the growing gaps in global health funding. “With less public investment in global crises, it's critical for philanthropy to step in and be bold,” he said. This announcement marks a new era of high-impact philanthropy, where strategic and time-bound giving replaces perpetual endowments. The global development community has largely welcomed the move, praising Gates for both his financial commitment and his push for long-term accountability. _Daily Growth Insights

"Diplomatic Efforts Aim to Reopen a Vital Trade Channel" In a notable display of bipartisan unity, a delegation of Japanese lawmakers traveled to Beijing this week to meet with China’s top legislator, Zhao Leji, appealing for the removal of the ongoing ban on Japanese seafood imports. The meeting marks a critical moment in diplomatic relations, as both countries attempt to navigate the tensions surrounding environmental concerns and trade policy. China implemented the seafood import ban in response to Japan’s controversial decision to release treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean—a move that sparked concern and criticism from neighboring countries, particularly China. Beijing cited health and environmental safety as the primary reasons for halting all imports of Japanese marine products. Since then, Japan’s seafood industry has suffered significant financial setbacks, with exporters losing one of their largest international markets. The Japanese government has maintained that the discharge meets international safety standards, backed by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and continues to push for scientific dialogue and diplomatic solutions. Bipartisan Outreach for Reconciliation The Japanese lawmakers, representing both ruling and opposition parties, emphasized during the meeting that seafood from Japan is safe and rigorously tested. They also highlighted the economic and cultural importance of marine trade between the two countries, noting how the ban has disrupted decades of cooperative commerce. Zhao Leji, Chairman of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee, responded by acknowledging the concern while reiterating China’s commitment to food safety and public health. While no immediate resolution was announced, the meeting is seen as a positive step toward reopening dialogue and possibly reconsidering the ban under new inspections or agreements. Economic and Diplomatic Implications The seafood ban has strained Japan-China relations at a time when both countries are trying to stabilize their economic ties. Japan is pushing to reduce dependency on Chinese supply chains, while China continues to assert its regional influence. Analysts believe resolving the seafood issue could pave the way for broader trade cooperation and renewed trust. While it remains unclear whether China will lift the ban in the short term, the renewed diplomatic effort indicates a willingness from both sides to engage. As global geopolitical tensions evolve, bilateral discussions like this could serve as models for peaceful conflict resolution and mutual economic benefit. --- ### **SEO Meta Description** Would you like a carousel or infographic version for Instagram or LinkedIn as well?