Markets

Studies have shown the positive correlation between having female investors or fund managers on team, and portfolio returns. Female finance leaders told FA that a diversity of experiences and skills are important in a fast-evolving sector.

As Hong Kong looks to integrate more with Asean's economies, Thailand joins Indonesia and Singapore as a Recognised Stock Exchange in the Special Administrative Region.

Despite numerous challenges, which are growing under Trump’s second administration, sustainable finance might be an area where females are more likely to excel and take leadership roles, including in Asia; senior leaders gave FA their opinions.

The Japanese parent company of 7-Eleven, under bid from a Canadian rival, has said it will replace its chief executive officer, spin off its US business and has agreed to sell its superstore business to Bain Capital.

BlackRock, Global Infrastructure Partners and Terminal Investment will control the two ports in the Panama Canal; the deal includes ports in Asia, Australia, Europe, and the Middle East, but not in Hong Kong or mainland China. CK Hutchison's co-managing director Frank Sixt said the deal "is purely commercial in nature".

Problems are continuing to mount up in Bangladesh’s economy, including high inflation, as the country attempts to bounce back from years of crisis to secure the next tranche of a IMF loan.

Bubble tea maker Mixue has joined the market as it bounces back with a flurry of listing activity expected this year, with mainland Chinese investors increasing use of the Stock Connect; Middle East firms could also seek listings, although other foreign firms could be harder to attract.

The BlackRock owned infrastructure investor is targeting the region as it is being driven by "strong economic growth".

China has hit the US with retaliatory tariffs on a series on products including soybeans, chicken, beef and pork, of up to 15%, after the US decided to impose further 10% tariffs on Chinese imports as of March 4.