Grab’s cab comeback

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Hello reader,

I recently read that failure is a cornerstone of taking risks, and we have to be willing to take risks if we are to succeed in the long run.

That’s a lesson that Singapore-based Grab seems to have learned. Its bid to acquire taxi operator Trans-cab failed last year after Singapore regulators expressed doubt over whether the merger would breach the city-state’s competition law.

However, Grab is now back in the taxi business, having secured the relevant license from the transport regulator. This makes Grab the sixth taxi company in Singapore and one that is likely to become a major player.

This week’s featured story explains the rationale behind this move, both from the perspective of Singapore regulators as well as Grab.

— Simon

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THE BIG STORY

Why regulators said yes to Grab’s Singapore taxi play
In the wake of its failed Trans-cab deal, Grab may have realized how profitable a taxi operation could be.

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3 Trends to keep an eye on

Hot stocks, earnings reports, restructuring, pressure from activist investors, and more.

1️⃣ Japan’s Nikkei hits eight-month low: Japan’s Nikkei share index fell to an eight-month low after the US announced global tariffs that included a 24% tax on Japanese imports. The share prices of companies across a range of sectors were hit, from banks to chipmakers and automakers.

While the tariffs were expected, the relatively high rate came as a surprise to many, especially considering Japan is a close US ally.

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2 Eye-popping facts

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The one you didn’t see coming

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Unlock the region’s digital future and investment hotspots at the inaugural Asia Economic Summit

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