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SeABank successfully holds 2026 AGM, reports stable Q1 results

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HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 April 2026 – Southeast Asia Commercial Joint Stock Bank (SeABank) has successfully convened its 2026 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (AGM), approving key resolutions on strategic direction, governance, and capital strengthening to accelerate sustainable growth.

The approved 2026 business plan targets PBT of VND 7,068 billion, total asset growth of 10%, funding mobilization growth of 23%, credit growth of 17%, an ROE of 13%, and an NPL ratio below 3%.

To enhance financial capacity, the AGM approved a plan to increase charter capital to VND 34,688 billion through issuing 583.8 million shares for a 20.5% stock dividend, and 40 million ESOP shares for management personnel. This capital increase is expected to strengthen the Bank’s competitiveness, enhance its CAR in line with Basel III standards, and provide a solid foundation for credit expansion, technology investment, and improved operational efficiency.

Regarding the Supervisory Board, the AGM approved the resignation of Ms. Vu Thi Ngoc Quynh for personal reasons and the election of Mr. Nguyen Van Lieu (born in 1969), a banking and finance expert with over 33 years of experience and extensive expertise in risk management, as a new member. The strengthened Supervisory Board is expected to enhance oversight, independence and transparency, improve risk governance in line with international practices, and support compliance with Basel III standards for sustainable growth.

As of March 31, 2026, SeABank reported stable Q1/2026 business results in line with its annual plan. Total assets reached VND 403,198 billion, outstanding credit reached VND 246,188 billion, indicating controlled credit growth with a focus on risk and asset quality. Total funding mobilization reached VND 217,863 billion, driven mainly by customer deposits. Asset quality remained within target, with the NPL ratio at 2.24%, supported by effective risk management and debt resolution efforts.

TOI reached VND 2,914 billion, achieving 108% of the quarterly plan, driven mainly by NII of VND 2,413 billion, while NOII fluctuated with market conditions. Service activities also recorded positive growth, with net income reaching VND 197 billion, up 12.46% YoY. Operational efficiency improved, reducing CIR to 32.02%.

These results contributed to SeABank’s PBT of VND 1,388 billion, underscoring its disciplined execution and reinforcing a strong foundation to deliver on the AGM-approved 2026 targets and strategic direction, while advancing ESG-focused sustainable growth.

Hashtag: #SeABank

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Motorist study: Singapore used car buyers are doing more research than ever before, but trust still falls short

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  • Singapore car buyers still lack confidence due to unclear pricing and inconsistent information, even after weeks of research.
  • Consumers spend up to four weeks researching before visiting a dealership, yet gaps in consumer trust persist.
  • Buyers are up to 3 times more likely to return to the same dealership when pricing is clearly itemised.
  • Trust is becoming a stronger decision driver than price when comparing similar vehicles.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 April 2026 – More than half of Singapore used car buyers compare multiple options before making a purchase, yet many still experience uncertainty due to unclear pricing and inconsistent information across the market.
Navigating the Market: The Motorist SmartBuy Guide 2026 provides Singaporean car buyers with data-driven insights and a clear path toward transparent vehicle purchases.

This tension between effort and confidence is a key finding from the Motorist SmartBuy Guide 2026, based on insights from over 5,000 respondents, pointing to a growing gap between how informed buyers are and how much they trust the process.

More effort, same uncertainty
Consumers today are spending significantly more time researching before committing. On average, buyers take between two to four weeks to evaluate listings, compare options, and review information online before visiting a dealership.
Yet, despite this increased effort, confidence remains uneven. Many respondents cited persistent concerns around hidden fees, unclear valuation methods, and inconsistent inspection standards and issues that continue to undermine trust at the point of decision.
Transparency emerging as the deciding factor
The study found that transparency – particularly in pricing, vehicle condition, and trade-in valuations – is now a key driver of consumer confidence.
Buyers who received clear, itemised pricing breakdowns were up to three times more likely to return to the same dealer, underscoring how trust directly influences long-term customer relationships.
While price remains important, factors such as warranty clarity, after-sales support, and dealer credibility are increasingly shaping final decisions, particularly when comparing similar vehicles.
Persistent risks continue to shape buyer behaviour
The findings reflect ongoing challenges in Singapore’s used car market, where buyers continue to encounter issues such as:
– Hidden or unexpected charges
– Disputes over warranty coverage
– Lack of clarity in transaction processes
These risks reinforce the importance of due diligence and consistent standards across the industry.
Industry context: strengthening consumer protection
The findings come amid broader efforts to improve transparency and accountability within the sector.
The Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) has consistently encouraged buyers to transact with accredited dealers that adopt clear contractual practices and provide additional consumer safeguards.

“Consumers are encouraged to look out for CaseTrust-accredited motoring businesses when making a purchase,” said Mr Melvin Yong, president of CASE. “These accredited dealers are required to adopt clear agreements and maintain safeguards that provide an added layer of protection for consumers.”

A market at an inflection point

The findings suggest that Singapore’s used car market is entering a more mature phase – where informed, cautious buyers expect greater transparency, consistency, and accountability.

As expectations continue to rise, the ability to provide clear information and build trust will increasingly define both consumer confidence and long-term competitiveness in the market.

For a deeper look into the factors and data which shapes today’s car-buying decisions, please access the full Motorist SmartBuy Guide 2026 for more information on the used car landscape.

Download the Motorist SmartBuy Guide 2026: link
Hashtag: #Motorist #Automotive







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Motorist

Motorist is a Singapore-based automotive platform dedicated to help drivers manage vehicle ownership through services such as buying and selling cars, insurance comparison, and financing tools. The Motorist Super App provides a comprehensive range of services, catering to all aspects of vehicle ownership and management.

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2026 Jinshan Sulfuric Fire Fishing Kicks Off in May

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World’s Only Sulfuric Fire Fishing Method: Come Witness a Maritime Marvel

NEW TAIPEI CITY, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 April 2026 – As the “bong sound bursts out, the firelight pierces the night and illuminates the sea surface off Jinshan. The spectacular sight of blue-scale fish leaping from the water unfolds every summer and autumn in Northern Taiwan. The 2026 Jinshan Sulfuric Fire Fishing land-and-sea tours will take place from May 9 to September 27. Be sure to seize the opportunity during this limited five-month annual window to experience the unique charm of the world’s only sulfuric fire fishing method.

Jinshan Sulfuric Fire Fishing is the world’s only sulfuric fire fishing method. (Photo by FuJi Fish Studio)

“Bong-hué-á” (Sulfuric Fire Fishing) is a traditional fishing method passed down in Taiwan for a century. It uses sulfuric fire to attract fish and is named after the “bong” sound produced during ignition. With promotion by the North Coast and Guanyinshan National Scenic Area Administration and local teams, it has gradually transformed into a featured experience with both cultural and tourism value, making its way onto the international stage.

The land-based tours include the popular “Fire Captain’s Lighting Experience,” allowing the participants to feel the immersive shock of holding a torch in a safe environment. Additionally, it combines guided tours of the Huanggang Fishing Village, readings of the Fish Road Historic Trail, and drying fish experiences to showcase the history and living culture of the village.

After boarding the boat in the evening, visitors can taste fresh squid rice noodles. At night, a maritime ecological experience begins, offering views of the Twin Candlestick Islets from afar and engaging in sea fishing. When the sulfuric fire is ignited and the light reflects on the sea, lucky visitors can witness the precious sight of fish leaping out of the water and taste freshly caught fish.

Every sulfuric fire journey is a precious gift presented by nature and cultural history. The North Coast possesses world-class landscapes such as the world’s only sulfuric fire fishing method, the Jinshan and Wanli hot springs, and Yehliu Geopark. Domestic and international travelers are welcome to the North Coast to enjoy sustainable travel.

Hashtag: #JinshanSulfuricFireFishing #SulfuricFireFishing #Jinshan

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Chinatown Singapore’s Five Footway Festival Returns with Street Performances and Cultural Experiences

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 April 2026 – Australian travellers looking for a short-haul cultural escape to Singapore this May can experience the Five-Footway Festival, which is taking place from 2–10 May 2026 in Chinatown Singapore Smith Street.

Organised by the Chinatown Business Association, the Festival celebrates the theme “Our Living Heritage,” transforming Chinatown Singapore’s iconic five-footways into vibrant spaces of culture, storytelling and community.

Festival Highlights:

Visitors can look forward to a lively line-up of cultural programming, including:

  • Live stage performances by established groups such as Chin Woo, presenting traditional lion dances; Tian Eng, known for their captivating face-changing acts; and Choy’s Brothers, delivering an action-packed musical performance.
  • Visitors can also participate in ticketed cultural including paper folding, tea appreciation, opera appreciation and a hands-on traditional wife-cake baking experience.
  • Cultural experiences such as Beijing Opera makeup experience, where participants can learn about the intricate artistry behind this traditional art form
  • Community storytelling, where artisans and elders share personal histories across generations
  • Game booths featuring traditional childhood games such as pick-up sticks, five stones and glass marbles

More than a festival, the event brings to life the historical significance of five-footways as communal spaces—offering visitors a deeper understanding of Singapore’s multicultural roots while engaging directly with its living traditions.

For Australians planning a May escape, the Five-Footway Festival presents a timely opportunity to experience Singapore beyond its skyline—through culture that is not just preserved, but actively lived.

Set against the backdrop of conserved shophouses, Chinatown Singapore offers a compelling mix of old and new—just minutes from the city centre and key lifestyle attractions. The Festival site is walking distance from Chinatown MRT and Maxwell MRT.

With frequent direct flights from major Australian cities, Singapore remains an easy and appealing destination for a cultural getaway or long weekend escape.

More details of the Five Footway Festival can be found on fivefootway.chinatown.sg.

Hashtag: #Chinatown #FiveFootwayFestival




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