Media OutReach

Kearney’s 2025 FDI Confidence Index® highlights APAC’s innovation-driven growth amid mounting global headwinds

Published

8 months ago

09/04/2025

Japan and South Korea leap in ranking due to technological innovation capabilities and improving economic performance.
Rising commodity prices, regulatory challenges, and geopolitical tensions temper optimism.
Southeast Asia’s emerging markets showcase strong talent and investment appeal.
New U.S. tariffs add urgency to scenario planning and highlight sector vulnerabilities, particularly in manufacturing and automotive.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 April 2025 – Kearney’s Global Business Policy Council today released its 2025 Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Confidence Index (FDICI), a survey capturing investor sentiment on FDI flows over the next three years. With 30 percent of respondents based in Asia Pacific (APAC), the survey results show a mixed outlook for APAC markets.

Eight markets from APAC make the top 25 this year, the same representation as last year. This includes Japan (4^th), China (including Hong Kong) (6^th), Australia (10^th), South Korea (14^th), Singapore (15^th), New Zealand (16^th), Taiwan (China) (23^rd) and India (24^th).

Investors highly value the technological and economic performance of some APAC markets, while the challenges from a complex global geopolitical environment have negatively impacted investors’ views on others.

Though there have been profound developments since the survey was in the field in January, including the announcement of new U.S. tariffs in April, key findings remain illuminating — particularly the value that investors place on efficiency of legal and regulatory processes, domestic economic performance, and technological and innovation capabilities.

Technology and Economic Strength Propel APAC Markets

Investor confidence in APAC remains underpinned by notable advancements in technology and solid economic fundamentals. Japan’s ascent from 7^th to 4^th place is a prime example, as market participants point to its leading technology innovation and strong economic performance, bolstered by a tight labor market and record wage growth.

Likewise, South Korea makes its strongest-ever showing by leaping from 20^th to 14^th. 41 percent of investors cite its dynamic technology sector as a key driver of renewed confidence. Significant government investments in semiconductors are potential influencing factors behind this change.

82 percent of APAC-based investors plan to increase FDI in the next three years. 50 percent are more optimistic than a year ago about the APAC economy.

“The impressive strides in technology and economic performance across APAC are reshaping our investment landscape. Japan’s leap and South Korea’s record performance demonstrate the power of innovation and strong market fundamentals, even as recent U.S. tariff measures add complexities to global trade dynamics,” said Shigeru Sekinada, Region Chair, Asia Pacific, Kearney.

“These trends reinforce that strategic and forward-looking investments in innovation will drive sustainable and regenerative growth in our region in the face of evolving global dynamics.

Nonetheless, businesses should also conduct scenario planning as they navigate tariffs and prepare for emerging risks. Sectors like automotive and manufacturing are expected to be hard-hit on top of existing cost and regulatory challenges.”

Regional Headwinds Temper Optimism

Investor sentiment is also affected by rising uncertainties.

Roughly 43 percent of APAC investors surveyed see a rise in commodity prices as the most likely development over the next year, up a striking 14 percent from last year. The uptick is perhaps explained by investor fears of increased global conflict and subsequent supply chain disruptions that could drive commodity prices up.

Ranked second as a likely development in 2025 for APAC investors is a more restrictive business regulatory environment in developed markets (36 percent), up two percent from last year. Tied for third are a rise in geopolitical tensions and a more restrictive business regulatory environment in emerging markets (28 percent).

China slipped from 3^rd to 6^th place, reflecting ongoing economic challenges including a persistent property crisis and heightened US–China trade tensions. Nevertheless, the nation’s tech innovation continues to be a draw, as evidenced by the recent launch of DeepSeek AI.

Furthermore, Singapore’s drop from 12^th to 15^th and India’s decline from 18^th to 24^th underscore growing concerns over trade-related risks and regulatory complexity, respectively.

Shigeru Sekinada added: “While our region continues to showcase significant strengths, we also recognize the challenges in a shifting global landscape. For instance, the new U.S. tariffs have impacted Southeast Asian nations and traditional China +1 beneficiaries.

Despite these challenges, APAC markets retain their core appeal, offering strong fundamentals that investors value deeply – tech-driven innovation, talent, and a strong business-friendly environment. With proactive policies and strategic investments, we are confident that the region is well-equipped to unlock long-term value amidst a volatile global environment.”

ASEAN Shines Among Emerging Markets

Southeast Asia continues to excel in the FDICI’s Emerging Market Index, launched in 2023 to highlight attractive emerging markets for FDI over the next three years. Three ASEAN-6 nations (Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia) have secured spots in the top 15. Investors cite the talent and skills of the workforce as the top reason for investing in Thailand (34 percent), Malaysia (30 percent), and Indonesia (32 percent).

Notably, investor optimism remains high in Thailand, leading ASEAN nations, only behind Singapore.

About the 2025 Kearney FDI Confidence Index^®

The Kearney FDI Confidence Index® is an annual survey of global business executives that ranks markets that are likely to attract the most investment in the next three years. In contrast to other backward-looking data on FDI flows, the FDICI provides unique forward-looking analysis of the markets that investors intend to target for FDI in the coming years. Since the FDICI’s inception in 1998, the markets ranked on the Index have tracked closely with the top destinations for actual FDI flows in subsequent years.

The 2025 Kearney FDI Confidence Index® is constructed using primary data from a proprietary survey of 536 senior executives of the world’s leading corporations. The survey was conducted in January 2025. Respondents include C-level executives and regional and business leaders. All participating companies have annual revenues of $500 million or more. The companies are headquartered in 30 countries and span all sectors. Service-sector firms account for 53 percent of respondents, industrial firms for 35 percent, and IT firms for 12 percent.

The Index is calculated as a weighted average of the number of high, medium, and low responses to questions on the likelihood of making a direct investment in a select market over the next three years. Together, the markets presented to respondents in the survey received 97 percent of the world’s inward FDI flows in 2023, according to UNCTAD data.

Index values are based on responses only from companies headquartered in foreign markets. For example, the Index value for the United States was calculated without responses from US-headquartered investors. Higher Index values indicate more attractive investment targets.

All economic growth figures presented in the report are the latest estimates and forecasts available from Oxford Economics unless otherwise noted. Other secondary sources include investment promotion agencies, central banks, ministries of finance and trade, relevant news media, and other major data sources.
Hashtag: #Kearney

https://www.kearney.com/
www.kearney.com.

For past editions of the FDI Confidence Index, please go to:
www.kearney.com/foreign-direct-investment-confidence-index.

For more information, contact the Global Business Policy Council ([email protected]).

Media OutReach

SIM and the True Worth of Education: Beyond Tuition Fees

Published

15 hours ago

07/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 December 2025 – As Singaporean families plan for higher education, tuition costs often dominate the conversation. However, the more critical consideration lies in understanding the relationship between cost and value. This article provides an in-depth understanding of the financial implications of pursuing studies at local public universities, private institutions such as SIM, and overseas universities, while highlighting SIM’s distinctive proposition that extends beyond competitive pricing.

Local Public Universities: Affordable and Prestigious

Singapore’s autonomous universities remain among the most cost-effective options for Singapore citizens, thanks to the Ministry of Education’s Tuition Grant. For example, undergraduate programs at NUS and NTU cost around S$8,250 per year for Singaporeans, while SMU averages S$11,500 annually. Other institutions such as SUTD, SUSS and SIT fall within similar ranges, typically between S$8,000 and S$13,500 per year. Over a three- to four-year degree, this translates to roughly S$25,000 to $54,000 in tuition fees.

The autonomous universities offer strong reputations and excellent graduate outcomes, but entry to some programme is highly competitive, and program flexibility may be limited compared to private or overseas options.

Overseas Universities: Prestige Comes at a Price

For families considering an overseas education, costs escalate dramatically. Tuition at U.S. private universities averages US$50,000 to US$60,000 per year (about S$70,000 to S$84,000), with living expenses adding another US$10,000 to US$15,000 annually. In the UK, fees range from £10,000 to £38,000 per year (approximately S$17,000 to $65,000), while Canada and Australia typically charge S$14,000 to $28,000 for tuition alone. Factoring in accommodation, travel, and insurance, a four-year overseas degree can easily exceed S$150,000.

While these programs offer prestige and cultural immersion, they also involve significant financial, visa, and lifestyle considerations.

SIM Global Education: International Degrees at Local Cost

SIM offers a compelling alternative for students seeking global credentials without the high cost of studying abroad. Through partnerships with leading universities from the UK, Australia, the U.S., Canada, and Europe, SIM delivers more than 140 programs in Singapore, allowing students to earn internationally recognized degrees, essentially the same degree if you studied overseas, but locally at SIM. Tuition fees vary by program, for example, a University of London BSc ranges from S$26,685 to S$42,835, a University of Birmingham top-up degree costs S$42,000 to S$57,100, and a degree from the University at Buffalo falls between S$41,700 and S$74,600 for Singaporeans.

Beyond competitive pricing, SIM emphasizes value. Degrees are awarded by partner universities and aligned with global academic standards. The institution holds EduTrust Star certification and ISO accreditation, ensuring the best quality assurance. Students benefit from bond-free scholarships and bursaries, as well as Career Connect services that provide internships, mentoring, and employer networking. Graduate outcomes are strong, with nearly 80% of SIM graduates securing employment within six months of graduation.

Why Value Matters as Much as Cost

Choosing a degree isn’t just about tuition fees, it’s about the total investment, which includes living costs, global recognition, and career outcomes. Local autonomous universities such as NUS, NTU, and SMU remain highly attractive for their subsidized fees and strong reputations, making them one of the most cost-effective options for Singaporeans. However, entry is competitive, and program flexibility may be limited.

On the other end of the spectrum, overseas universities offer prestige and cultural immersion but often come with six-figure costs and additional living expenses. This is where SIM provides a strategic middle ground, delivering internationally recognized degrees from leading global universities at local cost. Students gain access to global curricula, industry-ready skills, and career networks without the financial burden of relocating overseas. For families seeking international exposure at sustainable costs, SIM combines affordability with the value of global education

References:

NUS Fees for Undergraduate Programmes – https://www.nus.edu.sg/registrar/docs/info/administrative-policies-procedures/ugtuitioncurrent.pdf
NTU Fees for Undergraduate Programmes – https://www.ntu.edu.sg/docs/default-source/onestop@sac/2025/tuition-fees-ft-ay2025_12mar25.pdf?sfvrsn=b8c5474_1
SMU Fees for Undergraduate Programmes – https://admissions.smu.edu.sg/financial-matters/tuition-fees-grant
SUTD Fees for Undergraduate Programmes – https://www.sutd.edu.sg/admissions/undergraduate/education-expenses/fees/tuition-fees/
SUSS Fees for Undergraduate Programmes – https://www.suss.edu.sg/admissions/financial-matters/tuition-fee-subsidy/full-time-undergraduate
SIT Fees from Undergraduate Programmes – https://www.suss.edu.sg/admissions/financial-matters/tuition-fee-subsidy/full-time-undergraduate
Comparison of Tuition Fees in US, UK, Canada and Australia – https://uninist.com/blog/financial-planning/comparison-of-tuition-fees-guide
How much does college cost in 2025 – https://research.com/universities-colleges/how-much-does-college-cost
Price of attending undergraduate institutions – https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/cua
University of London Bachelor Degree – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/programme-listing?academic=2%7C&programmetype=1%7C3&university=1%7C
University of Brimingham Bachelor Degree – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/programme-listing?academic=2%7C&programmetype=1%7C3&university=10%7C

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

https://www.sim.edu.sg

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg

Media OutReach

A-Level vs Polytechnic: Understanding different pathways offer competitive edge at SIM

Published

1 day ago

06/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 December 2025 – Singapore’s education system offers two popular tertiary pathways after post-secondary, A-Levels through Junior Colleges and Polytechnic diplomas. Both leading to higher education but differ in focus. A-Levels are academically rigorous and theory-driven, preparing students for university through subject-based learning over two years at junior colleges or three years at Millennia Institute.

Conversely, Polytechnic programmes emphasize applied learning, incorporating projects and industry attachments, and culminate in a diploma after three years. Understanding how these distinct approaches translate into admission considerations at SIM, one of Singapore’s leading private education institutions, is essential.

For students and parents, evaluating these options is critical to determining which pathway offers the greatest advantage in today’s competitive education landscape.

Applying with A-Levels

For students who have completed A-Levels, SIM requires applicants to meet the academic and English language criteria specified for each degree programme. According to SIM’s admissions process, candidates must submit their GCE A-Level certificates and transcripts along with other supporting documents. Entry is subject to programme-specific requirements set by SIM and its universities partner from Australia, Canada, Europe, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This pathway allows applicants to begin their degree studies immediately after junior college, provided they meet the specific entry requirements for their chosen programme.

Applying with a Polytechnic Diploma

Polytechnic graduates may be eligible for advanced standing and credit exemptions when applying to SIM’s degree programmes. The amount of exemption depends on the relevance of the diploma and the chosen degree. For example, IT-related diplomas from local polytechnics can receive up to two years of credit exemptions for certain programmes, such as those offered by the University of Wollongong, provided the applicant meets GPA requirements (typically 2.0 or above). Other diplomas may receive partial exemptions on a case-by-case basis. These exemptions reduce both time and cost, making SIM an attractive option for Polytechnic graduates who want to build on their applied learning experience.

Why It Matters

According to the Ministry of Education (MOE) statistics in 2021, roughly one in three Polytechnic graduates progress to local autonomous universities, compared to about four in five A‑Level and International Baccalaureate graduates. This gap underscores the importance of additional pathways such as SIM, which enable Polytechnic graduates to earn globally recognised degrees and expand their career prospects.

Student Stories: Two Potential Paths to Success at SIM

At SIM, students have the flexibility to shape their academic journey based on their background and career goals. For some, it’s about gaining a head start; for others, it’s about leveraging credit exemptions to fast-track progress. Ashley Ong and Violet Weng exemplify these two pathways, each leading to success in its own way.

Ashley Ong, an A-Level graduate, chose to begin her degree journey with the University at Buffalo Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. She embraced every opportunity SIM offered such as internships, hackathons, and networking events, building practical skills and global perspectives that prepared her for a competitive business world.

Meanwhile, Violet Weng, a Singapore Polytechnic graduate, opted for a different approach. While pursuing her RMIT Bachelor of Business (Economics and Finance), Violet leveraged SIM’s credit exemptions to shorten her study duration and reduce costs, all while working full-time. This flexibility allowed her to balance work and study, accelerate graduation, and advance her career without compromise.

Both stories highlight SIM’s commitment to offering customized pathways for students whether you’re starting fresh or building on prior learning.

Conclusion

Whether you come from an academic route like A-Levels or an applied learning path through Polytechnic, the journey to a degree can look very different. A-Level graduates often enjoy a head start with direct entry, while Polytechnic graduates benefit from credit exemptions that recognize their practical skills. Both pathways reflect Singapore’s evolving education landscape where flexibility and global opportunities matter more than ever.

References:

MOE Post-Secondary – https://www.moe.gov.sg/post-secondary/
SIM Application Process – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/application-process
SIM-UOW Credit Exemption Table – https://www.sim.edu.sg/getmedia/9c0ad90d-5910-4d47-b044-f815188a4b16/sim002856.pdf
MOE Education Statistics Digest – https://www.moe.gov.sg/about-us/publications/education-statistics-digest
Polytechnic graduates progression and subsidies for PEIs – https://www.moe.gov.sg/news/parliamentary-replies/20210510-polytechnic-graduates-progression-and-subsidies-for-peis
askST: How many uni places are there for Singaporeans? Is there a quota for poly grads? – https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/how-many-uni-places-for-locals-any-quota-for-poly-grads
How 6 internships, 4 hackathons, and CCAs paved the way for Ashley – https://www.sim.edu.sg/articles-inspirations/how-6-internships-4-hackathons-and-ccas-paved-the-way-for-ashley
How this graduate pivoted her career by pursuing a degree while working full time – https://www.sim.edu.sg/articles-inspirations/how-this-graduate-pivoted-her-career-by-pursuing-a-degree-while-working-full-time

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE

https://www.sim.edu.sg

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About SIM Global Education

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg

Media OutReach

K. Wah Group Donates Additional HK$12.07 Million for Tai Po Recovery

Published

2 days ago

06/12/2025

Media Outreach

Chairman Mr. Francis Lui Urges Public to Turn Compassion into Action and Vote 7 December

HONG KONG SAR – Wechat: 嘉华集团 K. Wah Group
https://www.youtube.com/@kwahgroup

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About K. Wah Group

K. Wah Group was founded in 1955 by Dr. Lui Che Woo and has since grown into a diversified multinational corporation. Its core businesses span property development and investment, integrated resort and entertainment, hospitality, and construction materials.

The Group has a strong presence in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Southeast Asia, and key international markets. Its major subsidiaries include two Hong Kong-listed flagships: K. Wah International Holdings Limited (HKEX: 00173), focused on premium property development and investment; and Galaxy Entertainment Group Limited (HKEX: 00027), a constituent of the Hang Seng Index and a leading gaming and entertainment operator in Macau. Other key members of the Group include Stanford Hotels International and K. Wah Construction Materials Limited. Today, K. Wah Group comprises over 200 subsidiaries worldwide.

Website：http://www.kwah.com