This month, we speak with EY’s Arina Kok FCCA on her motivation for leading environmental, social and governance strategies for corporates and working with government agencies and leading financial institutions in Malaysia. As climate change and sustainability services co-leader for EY Asean, Kok believes that sustainable businesses consider the changing needs of stakeholders, embrace innovation and focus on value creation beyond profitability.

Elsewhere, we take a look at why Asia’s CEOs are pessimistic about short-term revenue growth. Persistent pressures from inflation and tariff uncertainty aren’t helping and a barrage of risks, notably cyberthreats, are keeping organisations on alert. We also find out about how organisations are strengthening cyber resilience. As the use of AI tools in the workplace increases, the need to understand how cyber incidents occur and the extent of preparedness among staff become an imperative.

New minimum global tax rules are reinforcing the need for stronger tax governance by multinationals. We hear from practitioners in Asia on the implications of BEPS 2.0 Pillar Two on companies and their reporting frameworks. We also find out about new compliance rules for precious metals trading and how practitioners are offering expert guidance to gold traders.

The start of a new year can often be a time of reflection, and a rethink of your career strategy might be front of mind. Based on recent ACCA research, we consider the move towards portfolio careers for professionals in Asia as short-term projects and shifts into different sectors point to a growing trend in the workplace. We also find out why micro-retirements and mid-life sabbaticals are becoming more commonplace, particularly among older professionals keen for experience and fulfilment over a traditional career path.

And, if you have ever been sent a poorly-drafted document that raises an audible sigh, you aren’t alone. We have some advice on how to deal the rising tide of AI workslop.

Finally, as we gallop into the Year of the Horse, our columnist Chris Davis writes on what the Fire Horse – bringing energy and confidence – might mean for businesses and the stock market in Hong Kong SAR of China.

 

 

 

 

Further information

See the other regional editions of AB:

Advertisement