Asia Pacific

Foreign carmakers in China are expected to see their market share decrease this year due to a worsening price war, with overseas companies potentially dropping to 32-33% of the electric vehicle market from 35% last year, according to analyst Valentin Mory. Domestic brands are expected to increase their market share to 70% from 65% last year as buyers opt for cheaper and better EVs. The price war, sparked by BYD cutting prices, is anticipated to intensify, leading to a challenging environment for foreign carmakers in China. Full Article

VoxComm, an alliance of communications agencies associations including the UK's IPA and the American Association of Advertising Agencies (the 4As), has spoken out against pay-to-play pitches that require agencies to pay intermediaries for pitching for accounts. The organisation warns that such practices undermine fair competition and may limit advertisers' access to the best agencies. VoxComm urges advertisers to review relationships with pay-to-play intermediaries and consultants and follow best practice guidelines for transparency. Full Article

In Australia, concerns are rising about the impact of Trump's policies on Asia and the Pacific, particularly regarding US alliances and trade relationships. With Trump's unpredictable decisions and controversial cabinet appointments, there is fear of strategic miscalculations and decreased trust in the US. The potential consequences include shifts in security alliances, intelligence cooperation, trade disruptions, and foreign aid impacts throughout the region. Full Article

The page prompts users to add their investment information by specifying the round, amount, and date. Users can indicate their participation in the round and request to be added. The company has yet to include any funding details. Full Article

Half of children with ADHD struggle to sleep due to genetic traits that reduce melatonin release, impacting ADHD symptoms like inattention, according to a study by researchers at Hamamatsu University. The study found that genetic variations linked to lower melatonin levels were associated with more severe ADHD symptoms in children, potentially worsening their condition. While melatonin supplementation could be a promising intervention, focusing on routines that support natural melatonin rhythms, like adequate daylight exposure and minimized screen time before bed, may help improve sleep patterns and overall well-being for both children and adults with ADHD. Full Article

Thailand’s main opposition party, the People’s Party, defended its support for amendments to the lese-majeste law, arguing that proposing legislation falls within lawmakers’ rights. The National Anti-Corruption Commission indicted 44 former members of the dissolved Move Forward Party for sponsoring a bill to amend Article 112, which criminalizes criticism of the monarchy. The amendment of Article 112 has become a focal point for Thai democrats and progressives seeking to challenge the political taboo surrounding the monarchy and address issues of power and inequality in the country. Full Article

Gil Won-ok, one of the last survivors of sexual slavery for Japan’s World War II troops, passed away at 96 in Incheon, South Korea. Despite her Alzheimer’s diagnosis, she fiercely criticized Japan for not taking legal responsibility for the "comfort women" and vowed that the fight for justice would continue. Gil's courageous activism shed light on a dark chapter in history and inspired a movement for historical justice and recognition of the suffering endured by thousands of women. Full Article

Dr. Sung Min, a senior consultant at the Department of Developmental Psychiatry at Singapore’s Institute of Mental Health, experienced anxiety and relief upon her son's autism diagnosis, leading her to establish autism services at IMH in 2006. Dr. Sung has been involved in various research projects related to autism, focusing on cognitive behavior therapy, omega-3 fatty acids, coping and well-being in parents, and supporting individuals with ASD in medical settings during the pandemic. She emphasizes the importance of early understanding and acceptance of autism, as she went through the grief process and had unrealistic expectations of her son in his...

Edelman has made leadership appointments in Southeast Asia, with Delicia Tan expanding her role as CEO of Edelman Singapore while still overseeing Hong Kong and Taiwan due to Julia Wei's departure from Edelman Singapore after two years. Vorasit (Gigg) Turongsomboon has been named Managing Director for Edelman Thailand, bringing extensive PR experience to lead amidst client demand growth, as expressed by Rakesh Thukral, Edelman's CEO for Asia Pacific, who commended both leaders for enhancing the firm's communications advisory services in the region. Full Article

Pai, a peaceful town in northern Thailand known for its relaxed atmosphere, is facing challenges due to an influx of young Israeli tourists, many of whom have recently completed their military service. Reports of arrests, scuffles, and shoplifting incidents involving Israeli visitors have sparked backlash on social media and disrupted the town's harmony, with local businesses being particularly affected. The situation escalated when four Israelis were arrested after a confrontation at a clinic, leading to widespread complaints of disruptive behavior and misconduct by Israeli tourists in Pai. Full Article