## Amazon Business Clarifies its Role in the Evolving Procurement Technology Landscape


Throughout 2025, discussions surrounding **Amazon Business**, including its annual **Reshape** event and conversations with industry leaders, customers, and analysts, have illuminated a clearer understanding of its position within the procurement technology sector. The company is strategically focusing on bolstering a distinct, technology-driven value proposition centered on strategic resilience, scalability, and operational velocity – areas where traditional procurement systems often encounter limitations. This deliberate positioning clarifies both the areas where **Amazon Business** excels and those where it doesn't intend to compete.


## Complementary Execution Layer, Not a P2P Replacement


Crucially, **Amazon Business** is not designed to supplant existing enterprise **P2P** (Procure-to-Pay) or **ERP** (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems, particularly within large organizations governed by stringent policies. Instead, it’s being established as a complementary execution layer that seamlessly integrates with existing procurement infrastructure. This approach allows organizations to maintain their established P2P processes while leveraging **Amazon Business** for streamlined execution.

In larger enterprises, **Amazon Business** proves most effective when applied to categories and scenarios prioritizing speed, product availability, logistical complexity, and rapid time-to-market over intricate sourcing workflows. These categories include operational, indirect, and those characterized by high tail spend, as well as urgent or exception-driven purchases where traditional P2P processes can introduce delays. To facilitate this integration, **Amazon Business** has expanded its connectivity with over 300 e-procurement and **ERP** systems through **Punchout** capabilities.


## Leveraging AI for Agentic Procurement and Enhanced Guidance


**Amazon Business** is increasingly emphasizing **agentic procurement**, utilizing **AI** to proactively identify opportunities and resolve exceptions. This approach moves beyond simply streamlining processes; it provides interactive, real-time guidance that anticipates user needs. Features like the **Amazon Business Assistant** and **Amazon Business Savings Insights**, powered by **Amazon Bedrock** and **Anthropic Claude**, offer contextual support and recommendations. This agentic strategy extends to industry-specific solutions, exemplified by a new industrial manufacturing solution developed in collaboration with **AWS** and **Deloitte**, which leverages **AI** to monitor, predict, and optimize the entire supply chain.

Accountability remains with procurement and finance teams, with **AI** serving as an assistive layer that highlights areas requiring attention rather than dictating policy. The focus is on reducing analysis effort and audit overhead, particularly in environments with extensive buyer populations and high transaction volumes.


## Resilient Sourcing and Fulfillment: A Core Strength


The core strength of **Amazon Business** lies in its resilient sourcing and fulfillment capabilities, rather than in upstream process design. The platform’s value stems from its ability to provide supply chain resilience, transforming a basic buying function into a genuine strategic advantage. The marketplace model, combined with **Amazon’s** extensive logistics network, creates redundancy that is difficult to replicate with traditional supplier models.

This execution-centric model necessitates a shift in procurement mindset, moving from fixed-price, long-term contracts to managed variability. Adoption hinges on confidence that pricing, availability, and internal purchasing compliance can be managed dynamically without sacrificing control.


## Addressing Post-Purchase Challenges as a Procurement Responsibility


**Amazon Business** treats post-purchase outcomes as a core procurement capability, addressing delivery configuration, receiving complexity, invoice reconciliation, and device readiness as integral components of the procurement value chain. Investments in delivery management, palletized consolidation, deferred delivery, and secure handoff reflect a recognition that receiving effort and delivery predictability directly impact procurement’s perceived value. Similarly, enhancements to invoicing, allocation, and reporting aim to reduce reconciliation effort and workload for accounts payable (AP), especially in multi-entity environments.


## The Growing Importance of Soft Costs and User Experience


Discussions throughout 2025 consistently highlighted the increasing importance of “soft costs” – the time and effort required to complete procurement tasks. **Amazon Business** resonates with organizations seeking to reduce clicks, simplify buying paths, and minimize interactions with multiple suppliers and systems. The value proposition is increasingly framed around process simplification and the time saved, rather than solely focusing on unit-price improvements. This also underscores the importance of trust and ownership, with a shift towards empowering frontline employees through policy guidance and analytics monitoring.

Amazon Business: Building Resilience in Procurement Tech

## Funds of Hedge Funds Reach Record Asset Levels, Surpassing 2007 Peak


After a period of significant decline, the **funds of hedge funds** sector has achieved a remarkable milestone. According to data released by **Hedge Fund Research**, these investment vehicles now manage over $800 billion, marking the highest level ever recorded. This figure surpasses the previous peak of $799 billion, which was reached in 2007, signaling a robust resurgence for an industry once considered to be in serious trouble. The recovery demonstrates a renewed confidence in the strategy of diversifying investments across multiple hedge funds.

The industry’s journey has been fraught with challenges. The combined impact of the 2008 financial crisis and the exposure to **Bernie Madoff’s** Ponzi scheme severely impacted the sector, leading to widespread liquidations and a significant reduction in the number of active funds. It took nearly two decades for the industry to recover and surpass its pre-crisis asset base, highlighting the depth of the initial setback. As of the end of 2025, **funds of hedge funds** are now overseeing $818 billion in assets, a testament to their resilience and adaptability.


## Strong Performance Drives Asset Growth


The recent surge in assets isn't solely attributable to renewed investor interest; it's also fueled by strong performance within the sector. The average **fund of funds** generated a return of 10.4% in 2025, representing the highest annual return since 2009. **Ken Heinz**, president of Chicago-based Hedge Fund Research, attributes this growth to a combination of factors, including favorable market conditions and evolving investment strategies. He noted that broader industry trends are also contributing to the positive momentum.

A key development influencing the landscape is the increased adoption of separately managed accounts (SMAs). These accounts provide investors with greater control over the selection and oversight of external fund managers. Firms like **Millennium**, led by billionaire **Izzy Englander**, have strategically utilized SMAs to access top-tier investment talent beyond their internal teams. A report from With Intelligence last summer revealed that multistrategy funds have allocated capital to over 100 external funds, further demonstrating the shift towards more flexible and targeted investment approaches.


## Evolution of Funds of Funds and Industry Shifts


The role of **funds of funds** has undergone a significant transformation. Previously, they and wealthy family offices held a more substantial share of hedge fund assets. However, the 2008 crisis prompted many investors to liquidate their holdings, regardless of fund performance, leading to a search for alternative capital sources. Consequently, institutional investors, such as pension funds, endowments, sovereign wealth funds, and foundations, now dominate the $5.2 trillion hedge fund industry.

Despite this shift, the diversification benefits offered by **funds of funds** remain attractive, particularly within the realm of multistrategy hedge funds. The substantial growth in assets managed by prominent firms like **Millennium**, **Citadel**, **Point72**, and **Balyasny** underscores this renewed interest. **Heinz** anticipates that this trend will continue to bolster the **fund-of-funds** sector as these larger programs reach capacity. He explained that some of the largest multimanager programs have limited availability or high minimum investment requirements, driving investors towards funds of funds as an alternative.


The lasting impact of the 2008 exodus is still evident. In 2007, nearly 2,500 **funds of hedge funds** were operating; by the end of 2025, that number had decreased to fewer than 1,000, reflecting the industry's consolidation and restructuring following the financial turmoil.

Funds of Funds Hit Record $800B, Beating 2007 Peak

## From Corporate Career Aspirations to Startup Founder: A Career Shift


**Sam Perry**, 40, recently recounted a pivotal career decision: foregoing a traditional MBA in favor of launching a startup after experiencing a layoff in 2022. This decision, fueled by a mid-five-figure severance package, ultimately proved more valuable than he anticipated. Perry, based in the UK, shared his story, which has been verified by Business Insider, highlighting a unique perspective on career advancement and the merits of entrepreneurial experience. This as-told-to essay offers insights into his journey, edited for clarity and length.

Perry’s ambition initially centered on a conventional corporate trajectory. Following graduation with a degree in Sports and Business Management in 2005, he envisioned a career culminating in a leadership role within a major corporation, complete with a prestigious office in London or New York. This aspiration led him to spend nearly a decade at **FedEx**, where he gained foundational business knowledge, followed by a three-year stint at **Anheuser-Busch**.


## The Allure of an MBA and a Sudden Career Change


In 2021, Perry joined **G-P**, a private equity-backed HR technology firm. While employed there, he began developing a side project – an HR tech marketplace – primarily as a learning exercise. However, his career path took an unexpected turn in October 2022 when his team received a significant industry award, followed swiftly by a layoff just a month later. The prospect of pursuing an MBA to bolster his resume and enhance his job prospects initially seemed appealing.

He initially considered top-tier programs like Harvard and Wharton, but the cost – exceeding $100,000 annually for a two-year program – significantly exceeded his severance. Even exploring more affordable UK and online options felt like a considerable financial risk without the prestige of an Ivy League credential. After 15 years in the corporate world, Perry questioned the value an MBA could truly offer.


## Choosing Entrepreneurship Over Traditional Education


A suggestion from a family friend proved decisive: utilize the severance to launch a company. This alternative presented a significantly lower cost and the opportunity to learn the intricacies of building a business from the ground up, potentially generating income along the way. Perry already possessed a viable business concept – the HR tech marketplace he had been developing as a side project at G-P. He invested roughly one-fifth of his severance into launching the venture. Leveraging readily available, off-the-shelf technology and free online courses from institutions like MIT, he kept initial expenses manageable.

The resulting company, **Ensemble**, was launched in late 2022. Initially, the marketplace model saw limited success, prompting a strategic pivot to directly procuring HR software for clients. Perry emphasized the invaluable lessons learned as a founder, encompassing everything from marketing and product development to hiring and, crucially, resilience. He noted that while he considered himself a skilled salesperson in his corporate roles, nothing compared to the direct engagement of persuading potential clients to invest in his creation.


## The Rewards of Startup Experience and Future Career Trajectory


In the summer of 2024, **Ensemble** was acquired by a competitor. Perry now holds the position of group vice president at **Sphera**, a supply-chain risk SaaS company. He believes his startup experience was instrumental in achieving this level of success at age 40. When reviewing resumes, Perry now actively seeks candidates with entrepreneurial backgrounds, recognizing the unique skills and perspective they bring. He asserts that a successful acquisition stands out as a significant differentiator in a competitive job market, far surpassing the prevalence of MBA degrees. Ultimately, Perry suggests that while an MBA remains a viable option, launching a startup offers a more cost-effective path to valuable experience and potential financial gain.

Startup Over MBA: UK Founder's Unexpected Career Win

## **Tom Keaveney** Appointed Managing Director of **AMC Networks International UK**


**AMC Networks International (AMCNI)** has announced the appointment of **Tom Keaveney** as executive vice president and managing director for its United Kingdom operations. Based in London, Keaveney will assume responsibility for the region’s business activities, reporting directly to **Eduardo Zulueta**, president of AMC Networks International. He steps into the role succeeding **Kevin Dickie**, marking a significant leadership transition for the company’s UK division.

Keaveney’s remit encompasses a broad spectrum of responsibilities, including overseeing programming strategies, marketing initiatives, and the expansion of AMCNI’s burgeoning FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television) offerings. He will collaborate closely with the company’s global commercial revenue, content licensing, finance, and technology teams to ensure cohesive operations. According to Zulueta, Keaveney’s appointment arrives at a pivotal moment, allowing AMCNI to capitalize on opportunities to enhance audience engagement and strengthen industry partnerships.

“Tom is a seasoned executive with a proven ability to lead innovative organizations within the advanced advertising, measurement, and technology sectors,” stated Zulueta. “His expertise will be invaluable as we strive to maximize the value of our content and brands while fostering robust relationships with key stakeholders in the UK market.” Keaveney echoed this sentiment, expressing his enthusiasm for joining AMCNI and contributing to its future growth.


## Driving Growth in the UK Market: Keaveney’s Vision


“I am incredibly excited to join **AMC Networks International** and contribute to the team’s next phase of growth in the UK,” Keaveney remarked. He believes the combination of AMC’s compelling programming, a strong market presence in the UK, and established local partnerships positions the company favorably for future success amidst the evolving media landscape. The industry is currently navigating a period of considerable change, and Keaveney’s leadership is expected to guide AMCNI through these transformations.

Prior to joining AMCNI, Keaveney held the position of executive vice president and head of business development at **iSpot.tv**, a prominent television advertising and measurement firm. Notably, he previously served as president of **605**, a data and analytics company founded by **Kristin Dolan**, CEO of AMC Networks. This prior connection underscores a deep understanding of the AMC Networks ecosystem.


## A Career Built on Technology and Leadership


Keaveney’s professional background extends beyond the media and advertising sectors. He possesses a diverse experience base, having held senior leadership roles at several technology-focused companies. From 2018 to 2021, he served as CEO of **Worn Again Technologies**. He also co-founded and served as president of **AdScribe Limited** from 2014 to 2023, and previously held positions at **Emuse Corporation** and **Morgan Ventures**. His career began at **Goldman Sachs & Co** within the investment banking division, providing a solid foundation in financial principles.


## Expanding **FAST** Offerings and Strategic Partnerships


Keaveney’s arrival at AMCNI is anticipated to accelerate the company’s efforts in expanding its FAST offerings and forging strategic partnerships within the UK market. His expertise in data analytics and business development will be crucial in optimizing content distribution and maximizing revenue streams. The focus will be on leveraging AMC’s existing content library and brands to attract and retain viewers across a variety of platforms.

Keaveney Leads AMC Networks UK as New Managing Director

## Paramount Escalates Pursuit of Warner Bros. Discovery with "Ticking Fee"


The ongoing competition for **Warner Bros. Discovery Inc.** intensified Tuesday as **Paramount Skydance Corp.** introduced a significant financial incentive to expedite regulatory approval of its acquisition bid. The company announced a quarterly “ticking fee” of $650 million, applicable to any period beyond 2026 where the $108.4 billion all-cash offer remains pending. This move underscores **Paramount’s** confidence in securing swift and favorable regulatory clearance. The $0.25 per share fee is designed to highlight this expectation.

Furthermore, **Paramount** confirmed it will also honor a $2.8 billion termination fee should **Warner Bros. Discovery** ultimately decline the current $82.7 billion all-cash agreement with **Netflix Inc.** This demonstrates the company’s commitment to the deal, despite facing repeated rejections from the **Warner Bros. Discovery** board. The escalating situation highlights the complex dynamics at play in the media landscape.


## A Superior Offer and Commitment to Shareholder Value


**Paramount Chief Executive David Ellison** emphasized the value proposition of their offer in a recent statement. “The additional benefits of our superior $30 per share, all-cash offer clearly underscore our strong and unwavering commitment to delivering the full value **WBD** shareholders deserve for their investment,” he stated. Ellison further noted the offer provides shareholders with certainty in value, a clear regulatory path, and protection against market volatility.

Following the announcement, market reactions were mixed. **Warner Bros. Discovery’s** shares experienced a slight increase, closing Tuesday at $27.8 per share, a 0.43% rise. **Paramount’s** stock also saw a modest gain, up 0.65% to close at $10.84. Conversely, **Netflix’s** shares dipped by 0.62% to $82.21. All three companies have faced declines over the past month, with **Netflix** experiencing the most significant drop at 10.94% and **Paramount** at 9.38%.


## The Battle for Warner Bros. Discovery: A Timeline of Events


The current situation stems from a series of events that began last September when **Paramount** initially presented an unsolicited offer to acquire **Warner Bros. Discovery** at $19 per share. The landscape shifted significantly in December when **Netflix** solidified a definitive agreement to acquire the streaming and studios assets of **Warner Bros. Discovery** for $72 billion in equity value. This deal also includes retained equity in **Discovery Global**, a planned spinoff of **Warner Bros. Discovery’s** cable and network assets.

**Paramount** subsequently launched a direct tender offer to shareholders at $30 per share and initiated legal action against the **Warner Bros. Discovery** board, alleging a failure to disclose crucial financial information. The company has also threatened a proxy boardroom battle, potentially occurring as early as April, to exert pressure on the board.


## Comparing Deals and Questioning Valuation


**Paramount** has actively compared **Discovery Global** to **Comcast Corp.’s** Versant Media Group Inc., arguing that a similar performance trajectory for **Discovery Global** would result in a significantly lower value for **Warner Bros. Discovery’s** shareholders under the **Netflix** deal. According to **Paramount**, “Assuming both a multiple and leverage ratio in line with Versant, **Discovery Global’s** equity value would be ~$3.55 per share, resulting in a total package value of only ~$26.75 for the **Netflix** deal.” They further asserted that **Paramount’s** $30.00 all-cash offer represents a 12% increase.


## Stakeholder Concerns and Regulatory Scrutiny


Despite repeated rejections, **Paramount’s** offer has garnered support from some stakeholders. **Pentwater Capital Management**, a significant shareholder in **HBO’s** parent company, has publicly criticized the board for overlooking what it deemed a superior offer. Activist investor **Ancora Holdings Group** has also voiced opposition to the **Netflix** merger, acquiring a $200 million minority stake in **Warner Bros. Discovery** and potentially increasing its holdings to encourage negotiations with **Paramount**.

The proposed **Netflix-Warner Bros.** megamerger is also facing increased scrutiny on Capitol Hill. The Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing Tuesday to examine the potential impact of the deal on consumers and the broader market as **Netflix** expands its influence in the entertainment industry. **Sen. Cory Booker (D-New Jersey)** expressed concerns regarding the consolidation of a “one of the largest content producers” and “one of the largest distributors,” highlighting potential implications for artists and artistic expression. **Netflix Chief Executive Ted Sarandos** assured the panel that the company would support theaters and continue to foster the growth of the American entertainment industry.

Paramount Offers $650M Incentive to Win Warner Bros. Deal

## Greenville Man Arrested Following Parking Lot Shooting Incident


**Nehemiah Austin**, a 29-year-old resident of Greenville, North Carolina, was apprehended on Friday by the **Greenville Police Department**. The arrest stems from an incident where Austin allegedly discharged a firearm in the parking area of **Da Hotbox Lounge**, prompting widespread alarm and causing several individuals to flee in fear for their safety. Court filings detail the concerning events that led to Austin’s detainment and subsequent charges.

The situation escalated further as officers attempted to take Austin into custody. According to warrants, one officer sustained a cut to their hand, and Austin reportedly attempted to bite the same officer. He also attempted to evade capture by fleeing from another officer after being instructed to halt. These actions contributed to the additional charges filed against him.


## Multiple Charges Filed in Connection with Shooting and Evasion


Following the incident, **Nehemiah Austin** faces a series of serious charges, including discharge of a firearm within city limits, resisting a public officer causing serious bodily injury, possession of a firearm by a felon, resisting a public officer, and injury to personal property. The injury to personal property charge arises from alleged damage to restraints used to secure prisoners during the arrest process. Authorities are diligently working to ensure a thorough investigation and prosecution.


## Recurring Concerns: Second Shooting at Da Hotbox Lounge in a Week


This arrest marks the second shooting incident to occur outside **Da Hotbox Lounge** on South Memorial Drive within a single week. On February 8, another individual was taken into custody after reportedly firing multiple rounds in the same location. The repeated incidents have raised concerns within the community regarding safety and security around the establishment.


## Austin Remains Detained Without Bond


Currently, **Nehemiah Austin** is being held at the **Pitt County Detention Center** without bond. The ongoing investigation is expected to reveal further details surrounding the events of Friday and the previous shooting incident. Authorities are committed to addressing the concerns raised by these events and ensuring the safety of Greenville residents.

Greenville Shooting: Man Arrested After Lounge Parking Lot Incident

## Understanding Your Privacy with Yahoo Services


**Yahoo**, a member of the broader Yahoo brand family, is committed to safeguarding your personal information. This commitment extends to how we utilize cookies when you interact with our websites and applications. We believe transparency is key, and this notice explains our practices and provides you with control over your data.


## How We Utilize Cookies on Yahoo Platforms


When you engage with our sites and applications, we employ **cookies** for several essential purposes. Primarily, these cookies enable us to deliver and maintain our services. They also play a crucial role in user authentication, bolstering security measures, and preventing spam and abusive activities. Furthermore, we leverage cookies to analyze user behavior and understand how our platforms are being utilized.


## Your Privacy Choices and Data Usage


Clicking "Accept All" signifies your consent for **Yahoo** and our extensive network of partners – totaling 245 entities participating in the IAB Europe Transparency Consent Framework – to store and process data collected from your device. This includes the use of cookies and the utilization of precise geolocation data, alongside technical identifiers and browsing/search data. This information is employed for analytical purposes, enabling us to deliver personalized advertising and content, measure the effectiveness of advertisements and content, conduct audience research, and contribute to the development of improved services.


## Managing Your Privacy Preferences


If you prefer not to allow **Yahoo** and our partners to utilize cookies and your personal data for these additional purposes, you can select "Reject All." For a more granular approach, clicking "Manage Privacy Settings" allows you to customize your preferences. You retain the right to withdraw your consent or modify your choices at any time by accessing the "Privacy and Cookies Settings" links or the "Privacy Dashboard" located within our sites and applications. For a comprehensive understanding of how we handle your personal data, please review our Privacy Policy and our Cookie Policy.

Yahoo's Cookie Practices: Your Privacy & Data Control Explained

## T-Mobile Store Relocates to Beltway Towne Centre on West Shore


**(AP Photo/Michael Dwyer, File)**

**T-Mobile**, a leading wireless carrier, has recently shifted its presence on the West Shore, consolidating operations at a new location within the Beltway Towne Centre. The move sees the store relocating from its previous address at Silver Creek Plaza, situated at 6391 Carlisle Pike in Hampden Township, to a more prominent spot at 5401 Carlisle Pike, also within the township. This strategic repositioning aims to enhance customer accessibility and service within the region.

The Beltway Towne Centre itself occupies the site of the former Park Inn by Radisson, undergoing a significant transformation into a bustling retail and commercial hub. Anchored by the popular BJ’s Wholesale, which debuted in August, the center is rapidly evolving into a destination for shopping and dining. The development is designed to accommodate a diverse range of businesses, both large and small, contributing to the area’s economic vitality.


## New Retail and Dining Options Arriving at Beltway Towne Centre


Beyond the T-Mobile relocation, the Beltway Towne Centre is experiencing a surge in new business openings. **Raising Cane’s**, a popular chicken finger restaurant, commenced operations in November, quickly becoming a local favorite. Further bolstering the center’s appeal, **Honeygrow** is slated to open its doors on March 13, offering a fresh and customizable dining experience.

Several other exciting additions are on the horizon. **7-Brew Drive-Thru Coffee** anticipates launching by the summer, providing a convenient caffeine fix for commuters and residents alike. Joining the growing roster of tenants are **Cava Mediterranean** and **Shake Shack**, promising diverse culinary options for shoppers and visitors. These additions solidify the Beltway Towne Centre’s position as a premier retail destination.


## Business Developments Across Central Pennsylvania


The T-Mobile relocation and Beltway Towne Centre expansion are just a few highlights of recent business activity in Central Pennsylvania. Elsewhere in the region, a medical company is constructing a substantial 25,000-square-foot facility in Dauphin County. A **Lebanon County** bookstore is also expanding into a larger space to accommodate its growing customer base.

In other news, a Pennsylvania-based sandwich chain franchiser recently filed for bankruptcy, while the jewelry brand **Swarovski** is preparing to open a new store in Lancaster County. Additionally, an early education company recently launched nine new centers throughout central Pennsylvania, demonstrating continued investment in the region’s future. This is according to **Daniel Urie**, an award-winning business reporter for the PA Media Group/PennLive/The Patriot-News, who has covered the local business landscape since 2010, having been born and raised in the Harrisburg area.

T-Mobile West Shore Store Moves to Beltway Towne Centre

This **FRANCE 24** business digest, originally issued and modified on **16/02/2026** at **11:59**, offers a swift overview of key global economic and corporate developments, designed for a **1-minute** reading time. Today's headlines include an update on Japan's latest GDP figures, potential merger discussions in the media sector, and insights into China's strategy for boosting domestic spending.


## Japan's Economic Performance in Late 2025


Preliminary figures released earlier this week indicate that **Japan's economy** expanded at an annualized rate of **0.2 percent** during the **final quarter of 2025**. This modest growth marks a recovery following a period of contraction in the preceding three months. However, the reported expansion significantly underperformed market predictions, which had anticipated a more robust **1.6 percent** growth rate.

The data, made public on Monday, highlights a cautious rebound for the Japanese economy. While the return to growth is a positive sign, the disparity between actual performance and expert forecasts suggests underlying challenges or conservative spending patterns that prevented a stronger economic acceleration towards the end of last year.


## Media Industry Consolidation: Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount Skydance


In the dynamic media landscape, reports suggest that **Warner Bros. Discovery** is contemplating reigniting discussions regarding a potential acquisition. The entertainment giant is reportedly looking to resume sale negotiations with **Paramount Skydance**. This development could signal significant shifts within the entertainment sector.

Such talks indicate a continued trend towards consolidation within the media industry, as major players seek to strengthen their market position and intellectual property portfolios. Should these discussions progress, it could lead to a substantial reshaping of content production and distribution.


## China's 'Winter Economy' Model for Domestic Growth


Meanwhile, **China's** innovative "winter economy" strategy is garnering attention as a potential model for stimulating internal demand. This successful approach leverages seasonal activities and related industries to encourage local consumption and economic activity during colder months.

The triumphs of this "winter economy" could serve as a valuable framework for other nations aiming to bolster their own domestic consumption levels. It offers insights into how targeted economic initiatives can effectively drive spending and support local businesses.

Japan's Economy Climbs in Q4 2025, Defying Recession.

## Asian Markets Show Mixed Performance Amid Lunar New Year


Trading activity across Asia was characterized by a mixed performance on Monday, February 16, 2026, with several key markets observing closures or shortened trading hours in anticipation of Lunar New Year celebrations. The holiday, commencing Tuesday, significantly impacted liquidity and contributed to fluctuating market sentiment. **Trader Fred Demarco**, seen working on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange on February 13, 2026, reflects the ongoing global financial activity (AP Photo/Richard Drew).


## Japan's Economic Growth Disappoints, Nikkei Declines


Tokyo’s **Nikkei 225** index experienced a slight dip, closing down 0.2% at 56,806.41. This downturn followed the release of government data indicating a slower-than-expected economic expansion during the October-December quarter. The annualized growth rate registered at a modest 0.2%. Analysts suggest this sluggish performance may intensify pressure on Japanese Prime Minister **Sanae Takaichi** to implement stimulus measures, potentially involving increased government spending and tax reductions.


## Thin Trading Volumes and Regional Variations


Reduced trading volumes were a common theme across the region, as stock exchanges in **China**, **South Korea**, and **Taiwan** remained closed for the Lunar New Year. Despite the widespread closures, some markets demonstrated positive movement. **Hong Kong’s Hang Seng** index managed a 0.5% gain in its abbreviated session, reaching 26,705.94. Meanwhile, Australia’s **S&P/ASX 200** advanced by 0.2% to 8,940.60, and India's **Sensex** saw a 0.3% increase.


## U.S. Futures Rise as Markets Await Presidents' Day


U.S. stock market futures indicated a slight upward trend, with the S&P 500 future rising 0.2% and the Dow Jones Industrial Average future also up 0.2%. This comes after U.S. markets calmed on Friday following an earlier decline fueled by concerns surrounding the potential disruption of artificial intelligence across various industries, particularly impacting software companies. A recent inflation report, suggesting easing price pressures, further contributed to the positive outlook, potentially paving the way for another Federal Reserve interest rate reduction.


## Precious Metals and Energy Markets See Shifts


Precious metals experienced a downward trend on Monday. **Gold** prices fell by 0.6% to $5,015.40 per ounce, while **silver** declined 1.9% to $76.50 an ounce. In the energy sector, U.S. benchmark crude oil edged up 1 cent to $62.90 per barrel, and **Brent** crude, the international standard, rose 2 cents to $67.77 per barrel. The U.S. dollar strengthened against the Japanese yen, trading at 153.19 yen compared to 152.64 yen, while the euro was valued at $1.1864, down from $1.1872.


Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Lunar New Year Dampens Asian Markets: Mixed Trading Seen

**London, United Kingdom – February 16th, 2026** – **OpenPayd**, a prominent financial infrastructure provider, has been honored with the coveted ‘Best Early-Stage or Future Payments Initiative’ award at the recent Cards and Payments Awards. This prestigious recognition celebrates **OpenPayd's** groundbreaking **stablecoin infrastructure**, which empowers enterprises worldwide to seamlessly receive, hold, convert, and dispatch stablecoins.


## OpenPayd's Award-Winning Stablecoin Infrastructure


The acclaimed **stablecoin infrastructure**, introduced less than a year ago, represents a significant leap forward in global financial technology. It offers a **rails-agnostic solution** that integrates digital assets into payment flows with the same ease and functionality as traditional fiat currencies. This innovative system facilitates the real-time, cross-border transfer of value, drastically reducing friction in international transactions.

**Iana Dimitrova**, CEO at **OpenPayd**, expressed her enthusiasm regarding the achievement. "This award is a great milestone for OpenPayd and a strong validation of the work we’re doing to modernise global payments infrastructure," she stated. The recognition underscores the company's commitment to developing advanced solutions for the evolving digital economy.


## Driving the Future of Global Payments


This accolade firmly cements **OpenPayd's** standing at the forefront of the next generation of payment solutions. As stablecoins gain increasing traction, they are rapidly becoming an indispensable tool for enhancing the speed and efficiency of global commerce. The platform's capabilities are pivotal in enabling businesses to harness these digital assets for streamlined financial operations.

The company's innovative approach allows financial institutions, fintechs, and other global enterprises to unlock new possibilities. This includes the ability to manage stablecoins alongside traditional currencies, achieve instant cross-border settlement, and embed these digital assets directly into existing treasury and payment workflows, offering unparalleled flexibility and control.


## OpenPayd: Universal Financial Infrastructure for the Digital Age


Established in **2018** by **Dr. Ozan Ozerk**, **OpenPayd** is dedicated to constructing the foundational financial infrastructure for the burgeoning digital economy. Its comprehensive, **rails-agnostic platform** empowers businesses to manage and transfer funds globally, encompassing both traditional fiat and diverse digital assets, all accessible through a single, robust API. This unified approach simplifies complex financial operations for its users.

The suite of services provided by **OpenPayd** is extensive, featuring embedded accounts, foreign exchange (FX) capabilities, domestic and international payment processing, Open Banking solutions, and essential stablecoin on/off ramps. This diverse offering ensures seamless interoperability between conventional financial systems and the rapidly expanding digital asset landscape. Trusted by prominent global entities such as **eToro**, **Kraken**, **OKX**, and **B2C2**, **OpenPayd** currently processes an impressive annual volume exceeding **$180 billion** for over **1000 businesses**, solidifying its role as a critical enabler of the digital financial ecosystem.

OpenPayd's Stablecoin Infrastructure Crowned Best Future Payments Initiative

## The Rise of Young Entrepreneurs in Singapore’s F&B Scene


A growing number of millennials and **Gen Z** individuals in Singapore are opting out of traditional corporate careers to pursue their passion for food and beverage (F&B) businesses. This shift reflects a broader trend of young people prioritizing autonomy and creative fulfillment over the perceived stability of a 9-to-5 job. The decision, however, comes with significant challenges, including demanding work schedules and financial uncertainties. This trend was observed while reporting on the changing landscape of Singaporean business.

This observation began with a conversation with **Ernest Ang**, a 24-year-old restaurant owner who built his business around his grandmother’s cherished recipes. While I began my professional career in a newsroom in 2024, enjoying a conventional work-life balance, Ang’s dedication to his eatery – preparing dishes like fried chicken and beef rendang in the Singaporean heat – highlighted a contrasting path.  It sparked a year-long investigation into the motivations and realities of this emerging generation of F&B entrepreneurs. 


## Demanding Hours and the Appeal of Ownership


The commitment required to succeed in Singapore’s competitive F&B industry is substantial. **Au Hui Her**, a millennial bakery owner, exemplifies this dedication, beginning sourdough bread preparation as early as 4:00 a.m.  Many young chefs interviewed dedicate six to seven days a week to their businesses, often working from dawn until late into the night to meet customer demand. Despite the grueling hours, these entrepreneurs express a strong sense of satisfaction and purpose in their work.

These young business owners aren’t deterred by the difficulties.  Interviews with eight Gen Z and millennial F&B owners revealed a consistent theme: a preference for the challenges of ownership over the constraints of corporate employment. They embrace the freedom to build something of their own, even if it means sacrificing traditional comforts and facing considerable risk.  They don’t regret their career choices.


## The Evolving Landscape of Singapore’s Hawker Centers


Traditionally, Singapore’s vibrant **hawker centers** – offering affordable and convenient meals – have been dominated by older generations of vendors specializing in classic dishes like Hainanese chicken rice and *bak kut teh*. There are currently 123 hawker centers across the nation, overseen by the **National Environment Agency**, each typically hosting between seven and ten individual stalls.  These centers have long been a cornerstone of Singaporean food culture.

However, a new wave of young entrepreneurs is injecting fresh energy into these spaces.  Increasingly, specialty stalls offering modern fare like matcha-based desserts, craft beer, innovative baked goods, and fusion cuisine are appearing alongside the traditional vendors. This diversification reflects a changing palate and a willingness to experiment within the established hawker center framework. 


## Navigating Challenges and a High Rate of Business Closure


Despite the influx of new businesses, the F&B sector in Singapore remains highly competitive and fraught with challenges. Rising rental costs and a price-sensitive consumer base contribute to a significant failure rate.  In 2025, a total of 3,074 food and beverage businesses ceased operations, according to data from the **Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority of Singapore**. 

Despite these hurdles, entrepreneurial spirit remains strong, with 4,103 new food businesses launching in the same year. This demonstrates a continued belief in the potential of the F&B sector and a willingness among young Singaporeans to take the leap into self-employment, despite the inherent risks.

Business