by | Mar 4, 2025 | Business
Discover how Trump’s new tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China are shaking up financial and cryptocurrency markets. Explore Bitcoin’s price swings, stock market reactions, and global trade tensions impacting investor sentiment. Stay informed on the latest economic shifts and market volatility.
The crypto market and traditional financial markets experienced significant volatility following President Donald Trump’s announcement of new tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China.
Stocks tied to cryptocurrencies initially surged before facing a sharp decline, while Bitcoin itself saw drastic price fluctuations. The broader economic landscape is also feeling the pressure as global trade tensions escalate.
Bitcoin’s Volatility Amidst New Trade Tariffs
In early trading, Bitcoin surged past $93,000 before settling around $86,200, after previously dipping to a three-month low below $80,000 on Friday.
However, as market uncertainty deepened, Bitcoin was last seen down 8.58% at $82,775.96. This volatility reflects investors’ concerns over economic policies affecting liquidity and risk appetite.
Shares of major crypto-related firms experienced similar fluctuations. MicroStrategy (MSTR), a major Bitcoin holder, initially gained more than 10% in morning trading before closing nearly 2% lower.
Coinbase Global (COIN) and Riot Platforms (RIOT), a Bitcoin mining company, surrendered earlier gains and closed down more than 4%.
Trump’s Tariffs and Their Immediate Impact
On March 4, 2025, the Trump administration implemented sweeping tariff increases:
- 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico
- 20% tariffs on imports from China
These trade restrictions were positioned as measures to counteract illicit drug activities and encourage domestic production. However, they have led to immediate disruptions in financial and cryptocurrency markets.
Within the first hour of the announcement:
- Bitcoin (BTC) fell 3.7% from $67,200 to $64,650, with a 15% surge in trading volume to $45 billion.
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Ethereum (ETH) dropped 3.2%, from $3,850 to $3,725, with trading volume up 12% to $22 billion.
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The Bitcoin to US Dollar (BTC/USD) pair saw an 18% increase in trading volume to $30 billion, signaling heightened volatility.
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The Fear and Greed Index for cryptocurrencies fell from 55 to 48, indicating increased investor fear.
Global Stock Markets React to Trade Tensions
The stock market faced its sharpest losses of the year following the tariff announcement. On Tuesday:
- The S&P 500 fell 0.7% at opening, adding to Monday’s 1.8% decline—the worst drop of 2025 so far.
2. The Nasdaq Composite came close to a 10% decline from its all-time high, making February its worst-performing month since April 2024.
- European markets also tumbled, with declines in Britain’s FTSE 100, Germany’s DAX, and the Euro Stoxx 50.
China, Canada, and Mexico Respond with Countermeasures
In response, China, Canada, and Mexico have announced retaliatory tariffs, intensifying global trade tensions:
- China imposed a 15% tariff on U.S. chicken, wheat, corn, and cotton and a 10% tariff on soybeans, pork, beef, and other agricultural products.
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Canada enacted 25% tariffs on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods and plans to expand them to $125 billion within three weeks.
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Mexico has vowed to announce its own countermeasures on Sunday, as President Claudia Sheinbaum condemned the U.S. tariffs.
Economic Outlook and Investor Sentiment
These trade conflicts come at a precarious time for the U.S. economy:
- Consumer spending unexpectedly declined in January, suggesting reduced purchasing power.
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Inflation remains stubbornly high, with rising prices further straining households.
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The labor market is showing signs of stagnation, with jobless claims exceeding expectations and federal layoffs adding to economic concerns.
Conclusion: A Market in Flux
Trump’s aggressive tariff policies are reshaping global trade dynamics, injecting new volatility into both traditional and cryptocurrency markets. Bitcoin, often viewed as a hedge against financial instability, has seen rapid fluctuations as investors assess the long-term implications of heightened economic uncertainty.
With global markets on edge, traders and investors will closely monitor upcoming economic data, including the February jobs report, for further signs of economic resilience—or distress.
As retaliatory measures unfold, the cryptocurrency market may continue to serve as a barometer of investor sentiment amid geopolitical and economic uncertainty.
by | Mar 4, 2025 | Business
XRP plunges 16% as Trump’s tariffs and mass liquidations rattle the crypto market. Discover key support levels, liquidation data, and the impact of Trump’s U.S. Crypto Strategic Reserve on XRP’s future. Will XRP rebound or face further declines?
The cryptocurrency market is experiencing a broad sell-off, with XRP mirroring the bearish sentiment. Over the past 24 hours, XRP has dropped 16% to trade at $2.32, effectively erasing all the gains made on March 2.
This decline comes amid wider market volatility triggered by geopolitical and economic factors, notably U.S. President Donald Trump’s newly implemented tariffs.
XRP Leads Crypto Market Bloodbath
XRP’s sharp decline is in line with a broader market sell-off as investors react to Trump’s tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China.
The cryptocurrency market has collectively lost 8% of its value, bringing the total global market capitalization down to $2.76 trillion.
Key Market Declines:
- Bitcoin (BTC) has fallen 10% over the last 24 hours, trading at $83,500, marking a 3% drop from pre-tariff levels.
- Ethereum (ETH) has tumbled 12%, now hovering just above $2,000.
- XRP, along with Solana (SOL) and Cardano (ADA), has suffered the steepest losses among the top 10 cryptocurrencies.
The risk-off sentiment among investors stems from fears of tighter economic conditions and the broader implications of Trump’s trade policies.
Over $50 Million in Long XRP Positions Liquidated
The sharp decline in XRP’s price has led to massive liquidations in the derivatives market. In the past 24 hours alone, nearly $58 million worth of XRP futures positions have been liquidated, with long liquidations accounting for $50 million.
This underscores the strong selling pressure currently dominating XRP’s price action.
Key Liquidation Data:
- $49.7 million in long positions wiped out, compared to $8 million in short liquidations.
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A similar liquidation event occurred between February 24 and February 26, erasing $80 million in long positions and causing a 17% price drop.
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XRP’s open interest (OI) has fallen 25% from $4.45 billion on March 3 to $3.34 billion, signaling waning trader participation.
The funding rate has turned negative, dropping from 0.0103% to 0.00032%, reflecting weakened bullish sentiment.
Key Technical Levels: Can XRP Hold Above $2.20?
With XRP’s price facing intense bearish pressure, key support and resistance levels could dictate the next move.
Key Levels to Watch:
1. Support: $2.20 remains a crucial psychological support level. A breakdown could see XRP test $1.76 (February 3 low) and potentially $1.55, where the 200-day simple moving average (SMA) resides.
2. Resistance: A decisive move above $2.48, where the 100-day SMA and the upper boundary of the descending channel meet, is necessary to reignite bullish momentum. If achieved, XRP could revisit $3.00.
Trump’s Strategic Crypto Reserve Sparks Brief XRP Rally
Despite the bearish market sentiment, XRP witnessed a brief surge near $3 following President Trump’s announcement of a U.S. Crypto Strategic Reserve.
The plan includes XRP, alongside Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and Cardano, as part of a national stockpile of digital assets. The announcement drove a 34% spike in XRP’s price, adding $44 billion to its market capitalization.
Can XRP Reach $5 Under Trump’s Presidency?
The inclusion of XRP in the U.S. Crypto Strategic Reserve has fueled speculation about whether it could finally surpass the elusive $5 mark. Analysts highlight three critical factors influencing XRP’s price trajectory:
1. Further Details on the Crypto Reserve: A clear regulatory framework could increase institutional adoption.
2. SEC vs. Ripple Case: If the SEC drops its appeal, XRP could surge past its 2021 all-time high of $3.40. However, continued legal uncertainty may drag XRP down to $1.50.
3. Potential Approval of an XRP Spot ETF: Institutional inflows from an ETF could act as a major bullish catalyst.
Market Reactions: Industry Leaders Weigh In
The strategic crypto reserve proposal has sparked debate among industry leaders. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong has suggested that Bitcoin alone should be included, arguing it serves as the best store of value.
Meanwhile, Bitwise CEO Hunter Horsley and Gemini co-founder Tyler Winklevoss expressed skepticism about the inclusion of multiple cryptocurrencies.
Conclusion: A Volatile Road Ahead for XRP
XRP’s price action remains highly volatile, with macroeconomic factors, liquidation events, and regulatory developments influencing its trajectory.
The next key event to watch is Trump’s Crypto Summit on Friday, where more details about the strategic reserve could emerge. Until clearer policies are established, XRP traders should brace for continued market fluctuations.
by | Mar 4, 2025 | Business
Rockstar Games® is proud to announce the acquisition of Video Games Deluxe, the Sydney-based development studio. The studio will be renamed Rockstar Australia. Video Games Deluxe has worked with Rockstar Games on some of its most memorable titles, including the 2017 re-releases of L.A. Noire, L.A. Noire: The VR Case Files, and most recently, on upgrades to Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition for iOS and Android, Netflix, and modern consoles.
“After working together closely over many years, we are excited to have Video Games Deluxe join the team as Rockstar Australia,” said Rockstar Games Head of Publishing, Jennifer Kolbe.
Rockstar Games’ relationship with the Video Games Deluxe team began with founder Brendan McNamara’s former studio, Team Bondi, and the creation of the critically acclaimed and groundbreaking detective thriller, L.A. Noire.
“It’s been an honor to work closely with Rockstar Games this past decade,” said Video Games Deluxe founder Brendan McNamara. “We are thrilled to be a part of Rockstar Games and to continue our efforts to make the best games possible.”
by | Mar 4, 2025 | Business
In celebration of Ramadan, Karaoke Manekineko is offering an exciting and affordable promotion to make your gatherings more memorable. From March 2 to March 30, 2025, customers can enjoy 1-hour karaoke sessions for just RM6 per person, available Monday to Sunday before 7 PM. This special pricing is open to everyone, making it the perfect opportunity to unwind and share joyful moments with friends and family during the festive season.
For a more complete
experience, guests can add free-flow drinks and tidbits for just RM3 per
person. This optional add-on allows you to enjoy unlimited refreshments
while singing your favorite songs. Whether you’re planning a casual hangout
during the day or looking for a fun activity before Buka Puasa, this
promotion offers great value and a fun-filled experience. Enjoy affordable karaoke
sessions with friends and family while taking advantage of this special daytime
offer.
After 7 PM,
regular pricing will apply for all customers. This flexible promotion lets you
enjoy affordable daytime entertainment while still experiencing Karaoke
Manekineko’s premium karaoke sessions in the evening.
Promotion Details:
– 1-hour karaoke session: RM6 per
person (Monday to Sunday, before 7 PM)
- Add-on: RM3 per person for free-flow
drinks and tidbits
– Regular pricing resumes after 7 PM
– Promotion period: March 2
to March 30, 2025
– Available at all Karaoke Manekineko outlets
Terms & Conditions:
- Prices are exclusive of 8% SST and 10% service
charges.
- The RM6 rate applies only before 7 PM.
Celebrate Ramadan
with the joy of music at Karaoke Manekineko—a place where everyone can
sing, relax, and make lasting memories!
by | Mar 4, 2025 | Business
Karaoke Manekineko invites you to celebrate the spirit of togetherness this Ramadan with its Sajian Nusantara Ramadan Menu and Ala-Carte Buffet, available from March 2 to March 30, 2025. Combining the joy of singing with delicious, traditional Malaysian cuisine, these special offerings are perfect for breaking fast with family and friends.
The Sajian Nusantara Ramadan Menu features a variety of
comforting, authentic dishes inspired by Malaysian favorites. Each meal comes
with complimentary dates, adding a traditional touch to your Buka Puasa
experience. Menu highlights include:
– Lontong with Kuah Kacang – RM19.80++: A classic dish featuring compressed rice cakes in
a rich and savory peanut sauce.
– Nasi Impit with Kuah Kacang – RM15.00++: Soft rice cubes served with creamy, flavorful
peanut sauce.
– Ayam Masak Merah with Steamy
Rice – RM19.80++: Tender chicken cooked in a
spicy, tangy tomato-based sauce, paired with fluffy steamed rice.
– Kapitan Chicken Curry with
Fragrance Rice – RM19.80++: Aromatic chicken
curry with a rich blend of spices, served with fragrant rice.
– Chicken Cooked with Coconut
Milk with White Rice – RM15.00++: A comforting
dish of chicken simmered in creamy coconut milk, served with white rice.
– Durian Mochi-Mochi – RM9.80++: A delightful dessert featuring soft, chewy mochi
filled with rich durian paste.
All prices are exclusive of 6% SST and 10% service charges.
With a range of savory and sweet offerings, there’s something to satisfy every
craving.
For those wanting a wider variety, the Sajian Nusantara Ala-Carte
Buffet provides an all-you-can-eat experience paired with a fun karaoke
session. Priced at RM68++ per person, the buffet includes a 3-hour
singing session, making it the perfect option for large groups and families
looking to enjoy an evening of food and entertainment.
Buffet items include local favorites and international bites such
as:
- Lontong with Kuah Kacang
- Nasi Impit with Kuah Kacang
- Salad Rolls
-
Chicken Nugget and Fries
-
Takoyaki Balls
-
Sausage Rolls
-
Fries (200g)
-
Kapitan Chicken Curry with
Fragrance Rice
-
Ayam Masak Merah with Steamy Rice
-
Chicken Cooked with Coconut Milk
with White Rice
-
Durian Mochi-Mochi
Participating
Outlets:
The Ala-Carte Buffet is available at the following Karaoke Manekineko
locations:
– Paradigm Mall, PJ
– Central i-City
– Sunway Putra Mall
– Nu Sentral
– Berjaya Times Square
Terms & Conditions:
– Minimum 2 persons required to enjoy the buffet package.
- Each customer may order up to 3
servings per round. New orders can only be placed once the current
servings are finished.
– Ala-Carte Buffet is available
from 7:00 PM until closing time.
– No takeaways are allowed – all food must be consumed in the karaoke room.
A Unique Buka Puasa Experience
Karaoke Manekineko’s Ramadan offerings provide a unique and
entertaining way to break your fast. Enjoy a feast of traditional flavors while
singing your heart out in a private karaoke room. With a cozy atmosphere and a
wide range of dishes, it’s the perfect place to gather your loved ones for a
memorable Iftar.
Whether you choose the Sajian Nusantara Ramadan Menu for a
quick and satisfying meal or indulge in the Ala-Carte Buffet for a more
elaborate dining experience, Karaoke Manekineko promises a delightful
celebration of food, music, and joy.
Reserve your spot today and make this
Ramadan truly special with Karaoke Manekineko!
by | Mar 3, 2025 | Business
Cardano (ADA) surged over 70% following Trump’s announcement of a U.S. Crypto Strategic Reserve. Explore the latest price trends, technical analysis, and future outlook for ADA, including key support and resistance levels.
Cardano (ADA) has recently experienced a dramatic price surge, climbing over 70% before retracing slightly. This rally followed a significant political announcement from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the establishment of a “Crypto Strategic Reserve.”
This policy shift has sparked renewed investor confidence in the cryptocurrency market, with ADA emerging as one of the standout gainers.
Trump’s Crypto Strategic Reserve Announcement
On Sunday, President Trump announced on his Truth Social platform that the U.S. government will form a “Crypto Strategic Reserve.” The reserve will include Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), XRP (Ripple), Solana (SOL), and Cardano (ADA).
Trump framed this move as a response to what he called “corrupt attacks” on the crypto industry under the previous administration.
In his statement, Trump emphasized his commitment to making the U.S. the global leader in cryptocurrency. This announcement led to a rapid surge in valuations across the crypto market, with ADA’s price jumping from $0.66 to $1.08 before stabilizing around $1.00.
Cardano’s Technical Analysis and Market Response
Cardano’s bullish trend has been reinforced by technical indicators. ADA broke above a descending trendline that had been in place since mid-January, triggering a 72.15% rally.
At the time of writing, ADA hovers around $1.00, with analysts predicting further gains if momentum continues.
Key Technical Indicators:
1. Relative Strength Index (RSI): The RSI currently stands at 66, indicating strong bullish momentum while approaching overbought territory.
2. Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD): A bullish crossover suggests continued upward momentum.
3. Open Interest (OI): Coinglass data indicates that ADA futures’ open interest surged from $536 million to $1.18 billion, marking the highest level since early February.
4. Trading Volume: Artemis data shows that ADA’s trading volume spiked from $536.9 million to $8.4 billion, the highest since September 2021.
Historical Context: Cardano’s Price Movements
Cardano has seen significant price fluctuations over the past few months:
1. November-December 2023: ADA surged from $0.34 to $1.28, buoyed by broader crypto market optimism following Trump’s election victory.
2. February 2024: The price declined from $1.13 to $0.60 amid economic concerns related to new U.S. tariffs and inflation fears.
3. March 2024: Following Trump’s announcement, ADA rebounded sharply, marking its highest price in over a month.
Institutional Interest and Whale Accumulation
Large investors have also played a key role in ADA’s price surge. Blockchain analyst Ali Martinez reported that whales purchased over 200 million ADA within 24 hours of Trump’s declaration.
This influx of institutional capital suggests long-term confidence in Cardano’s inclusion in the Crypto Strategic Reserve.
On-Chain Metrics Reflect Growing Confidence
Cardano’s on-chain activity has also surged:
1. Active Wallets: DappRadar data shows a 157% increase in unique active wallets, reaching 3,720.
2. Daily Transactions: Transactions on the Cardano blockchain have risen by over 200% to 17,120.
3. Total Value Locked (TVL): DefiLlama data indicates a 38.87% jump to $499 million on March 3.
Future Outlook: Key Support and Resistance Levels
While Cardano’s recent performance is impressive, maintaining its bullish trajectory depends on key price levels:
1. Support Level: $1.00 is now a critical support level; holding above this price is crucial for continued upward movement.
2. Resistance Levels:
– $1.15 – $1.20: A major resistance zone where profit-taking could occur.
– $1.32: The December 2023 high, a potential short-term target.
– $1.90: A long-term price target if the rally continues.
If ADA falls below $1.00, it may test support at $0.85. Conversely, closing the week above $1.05 would significantly enhance bullish sentiment.
Conclusion
Cardano’s recent price rally showcases the powerful impact of political announcements on the cryptocurrency market. Trump’s plan for a U.S. Crypto Strategic Reserve has provided ADA with strong momentum, reinforcing its position among top digital assets.
With growing institutional interest, rising on-chain activity, and bullish technical indicators, ADA is well-positioned for further gains. However, traders should remain cautious of potential volatility as the market digests this major policy shift.
by | Mar 3, 2025 | Business
U.S. President Donald Trump announces a Strategic Crypto Reserve, naming Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Solana, and Cardano as key assets. The announcement sparks a major crypto market rally, with Bitcoin surging past $95,000. Learn more about the impact, policy shift, and what’s next for digital assets.
In a groundbreaking move, U.S. President Donald Trump has unveiled plans to establish a U.S. Strategic Crypto Reserve, aiming to position the country as the “Crypto Capital of the World.”
The announcement immediately sparked a significant surge in cryptocurrency prices, reinforcing the growing influence of digital assets in the global financial landscape.
Trump’s Crypto Endorsement and Market Reactions
During a social media post on Sunday, Trump disclosed that he had signed an executive order directing the Presidential Working Group to proceed with the formation of a Crypto Strategic Reserve.
He initially named three cryptocurrencies—XRP, Solana (SOL), and Cardano (ADA)—as part of the reserve. An hour later, he confirmed that Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) would also be central to the initiative.
The crypto market reacted swiftly, with all five named coins experiencing substantial gains. XRP, SOL, and ADA surged by up to 62% within hours, while Bitcoin and Ethereum saw increases exceeding 10%.
Overall, the total cryptocurrency market capitalization jumped by over $300 billion, marking one of the most significant market rallies in recent months.
Bitcoin’s Price Surge and Market Impact
Bitcoin led the charge, breaching the mid-$90,000 range, marking a double-digit percentage increase in just 24 hours. Ethereum followed with a 17% rise, reaching $2,548, while XRP saw an astonishing 33% gain to hit $2.97.
Solana and Cardano recorded 27% and 75% increases, respectively, pushing their values to $178.6 and $1.13.
This sharp price movement came after months of market stagnation, where Bitcoin struggled to maintain momentum above the $90,000 mark. Analysts noted that Trump’s endorsement, coupled with growing institutional interest and macroeconomic factors, provided the perfect catalyst for the rally.
Policy Shift: From Crypto Skeptic to Advocate
Trump’s stance on cryptocurrencies has evolved significantly over the years. In 2021, he famously referred to Bitcoin as a “scam.” However, since launching his 2024 election campaign, he has actively courted the crypto community, reversing previous regulatory crackdowns imposed under President Joe Biden’s administration.
Biden’s tenure saw increased scrutiny over crypto activities due to concerns about fraud and money laundering, leading to stringent regulations and legal actions against major crypto firms.
Trump’s administration has already taken steps to create a more favorable regulatory environment. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has reportedly ceased investigations into several crypto companies and dismissed a lawsuit against Coinbase, the largest U.S.-based cryptocurrency exchange.
These actions have further fueled investor optimism about a more crypto-friendly regulatory framework under Trump’s leadership.
Implications of the U.S. Crypto Reserve
While details on how the strategic crypto reserve will function remain unclear, Trump is expected to provide further insights during the first White House Crypto Summit on Friday. Some key aspects yet to be addressed include:
1. Legal and regulatory framework: Will congressional approval be required to implement the reserve?
2. Funding and acquisition: How will the government acquire and manage the digital assets?
3. Security and storage: What measures will be taken to ensure the safety of these assets against cyber threats?
A previous executive order signed by Trump in January had already hinted at the formation of a national digital asset stockpile, which would include cryptocurrencies lawfully seized by the federal government. This reserve could serve as both an investment tool and a strategic asset for national economic security.
Macroeconomic Factors Driving Bitcoin’s Growth
Beyond Trump’s endorsement, several macroeconomic trends have contributed to Bitcoin’s recent price surge:
1. Recession fears and interest rate expectations: Soft economic data has raised concerns about a potential U.S. recession, increasing speculation that the Federal Reserve might cut interest rates—an environment historically favorable for Bitcoin and other risk assets.
2. Inflation and store-of-value narrative: Bitcoin’s appeal as “digital gold” continues to grow amid persistent inflation fears.
3. Institutional adoption: More financial institutions have been increasing their exposure to Bitcoin, further legitimizing its status as a mainstream asset.
The Road Ahead: Market Uncertainty or New Crypto Boom?
The upcoming White House Crypto Summit is expected to provide clarity on Trump’s long-term vision for the crypto industry. Investors and industry stakeholders will be watching closely for regulatory guidelines, potential incentives for crypto businesses, and details on how the government plans to integrate digital assets into national policy.
How long Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies will maintain their current momentum remains to be seen. The sustainability of this rally depends on the specifics of the proposed U.S. Crypto Reserve, broader economic conditions, and continued institutional adoption.
For now, Trump’s pro-crypto stance has undeniably reinvigorated the market, setting the stage for what could be a transformative period in the history of digital assets.
by | Mar 1, 2025 | Business
The Disruptive Doctors Conference 2025, happening on September 20-21, 2025, at Sime Darby Convention Centre, Kuala Lumpur, is the ultimate event for forward-thinking doctors ready to embrace the future of healthcare. Featuring careers & leadership for doctors in healthcare, clinic building strategies for GP doctors, AI and tech innovation in healthcare and Longevity Medicine. This is the conference where we break down barriers and democratize healthcare for doctors.
For doctors who refuse to settle for the ordinary, the Disruptive Doctors Conference 2025 is where the future of healthcare is shaped. This year, Disruptive Doctors with supporting partner Pharmaceutical Association of Malaysia (PhAMA) work hand-in-hand to bring together one of the most anticipated events in the medical field!
Taking place on 20-21 September 2025, at Sime Darby Convention Centre, Kuala Lumpur, this event is designed for doctors and healthcare professionals who constantly challenge the norm, dare to be different, embrace innovation, and are ready to push the boundaries of modern medicine.
In 2024, this event attracted an additional 26.6% attendees, from 300 to 380 participants. This year, Disruptive Doctors is expecting more healthcare professionals to attend, anticipating at least 500 participants.
Why You Need to Be There
This is more than just a medical conference—it’s a movement for doctors. If you’ve ever felt like the traditional clinical path wasn’t enough, if you’re curious about how AI, tech innovation, and biohacking are reshaping medicine, or if you want to connect with like-minded doctors who are redefining the industry, this is the event for you!
“I had a great experience! The content was engaging, well-structured, and delivered with such passion that it kept me hooked throughout.”
“The unique perspective on healthcare and innovation truly opened my eyes to new possibilities in the field.”
Act Now – Save 40% with Early Bird Tickets!
For a limited time, get your Early Bird ticket for only RM390 (standard price: RM 650). Don’t wait—this is your chance to secure your spot at the most forward-thinking medical event in Southeast Asia.
Join the Movement. Be Part of the Future.
Medicine is evolving, and so should you. Take action now—get your Early Bird tickets today at Disruptive Doctors Conference 2025.
This is where doctors break barriers. Are you with us?
by | Feb 28, 2025 | Business
New first-of-its-kind research released today from headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation has revealed that while families are concerned about the impact of work and study stress on their young people, tailored work and study support can actually enhance mental health.
headspace’s recent National Family Mental Health Survey found that stress from work or studying was in the top five perceived negative influences on young people’s mental health and wellbeing, with one in five (21%) family members concerned.
However, new evidence* shows that young people receiving tailored work or study support alongside mental health care experience even greater improvement in their mental health and wellbeing than those who receive standard care.
This March, for headspace’s annual Work and Study Month, the national youth mental health organisation is highlighting the benefits of work and study and how, for young people with mental health challenges, tailored support can improve resilience, build life skills and help them feel confident and connected.
Head of headspace’s Work and Study program, Carolyn Watts, says the impacts of mental health challenges can be a barrier to young people achieving their job and education goals.
“We know that for young people, mental health challenges in adolescence and young adulthood can impact their preparedness to enter the workforce or higher education. There are many reasons why someone might not be engaged with the worlds of work or study, such as feeling inexperienced or unprepared to enter the workforce or go to university or TAFE, past negative experiences or having caring responsibilities.
“Often, experiencing mental health challenges can lead to young people struggling to keep up with study or secure, and keep, a stable job. The longer not working or studying goes on, the harder it is to get into it. In fact, our most recent National Youth Mental Health Survey found that only half (54%) of young Australians feel confident in applying for a job.
“On the flip side, our research shows that receiving work or study support can have a hugely positive impact on mental health and wellbeing, helping young people feel a sense of purpose and learn new skills, build confidence and self-esteem, and provide those crucial social and support networks. It can also help with feelings of stress and overwhelm that young people often feel, particularly around crucial moments such as exam time – and families are often the ones who see the impact of this stress the most.”
Ash Wyllie, 20 years old from Brisbane, is one of the thousands of young people in Australia who’ve reported improved mental health after engaging with headspace Work and Study.
“Before connecting with the headspace Work and Study program, I sometimes lacked confidence in my ability to job search and find the right study options for me,” Ash said.
“At headspace, I could ask questions about work and study, figure out what my goals are and start to actually achieve those goals. It was hugely beneficial, and helped me feel more in control of my life.
“I built a great rapport with my vocational specialist, who created a safe space for me to talk about my future goals.”
In-person work and study support is free and available for 12-25 year-olds at 50 headspace centres nationally. It integrates general mental health support with tailored career advice and helps young people to enrol in study, write resumes and prepare for interviews.
One-on-one work and study support is also available online for 15-25 year-olds, and the headspace Career Mentoring initiative pairs young people aged 18-25 with volunteer professionals based on their career interests and goals, to provide advice and guidance. More information about the Work and Study program can be found on the headspace website, www.headspace.org.au/services/work-and-study-support/.
General support for young people aged 12 to 25 who are struggling with their mental health is also available via phone and online counselling service eheadspace seven days a week between 9am–1am (AEST). The number is 1800 650 890.
If you’re looking for someone to talk to immediately, Lifeline (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), and 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) are available to talk 24/7.
-ENDS-
Key Facts:
*Notes to Editor: Study on tailored work and study support – key findings
A recent study of 2,128 young people aged 12-25 compared the mental health outcomes of those participating in headspace’s Work and Study program with those receiving standard mental health care from their local headspace centre.
• The majority of young people who received mental health care saw an improvement. But those who also received work and study support were up to a third (22-36%) more likely to achieve significantly improved mental wellbeing.
• 81% of the work and study cohort experienced an improvement on at least one of the three mental health measures – psychological distress, quality of life and psychosocial functioning (compared to 75% of those receiving standard care).
• This represents a 22% to 36% higher likelihood of achieving significant improvement on any mental health outcome from receiving work and study support compared to standard mental health services.
• The most significant improvement was seen on quality of life and psychosocial functioning. Psychological distress improved at the same rate for both cohorts.
• Those who were not engaged in study or work and looking for work, and males aged 15-25, saw the biggest improvements in mental wellbeing.
•Almost two-thirds of young people (65%) who participated in the study and received work and study support either secured a job or began studying, while an additional 8% had positive work or study outcomes recorded.
• For Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander young people, those who went through the work and study program were at least 47-64% more likely to significantly improve on at least one mental health outcome measure, compared than those who received standard care.
by | Feb 28, 2025 | Business
Xpress is set to revolutionize Metro Manila’s streets with XPRESS ARANGKADA – “Barkada sa Kalsada; Asenso ang Kita!” on March 8, 2025, at Dr. A. Santos LRT Station Parking Lot. This dynamic, one-day event will feature instant driver sign-ups, live BYD test drives, Moto Taxi skills demos, and interactive booths offering immediate incentives and ride discounts. With robust support from Cebuana Lhuillier providing exclusive financing options, XPRESS ARANGKADA is all about empowering driver partners and elevating the commuter experience. Discover how Xpress is reshaping urban mobility—visit www.xpress.ph and Facebook at XpressSuperApp for more details.
| Dr. A. Santos
LRT Station Parking Lot, Metro Manila
Metro Manila, Philippines
– Xpress, a leading
ride-hailing platform in Metro Manila, announces XPRESS ARANGKADA “Barkada sa Kalsada; Asenso ang Kita!” on March 8,
2025—a one-day event combining on-the-spot driver registration with
demonstrations of the latest innovations in urban transportation. For more
information, visit www.xpress.ph and Facebook at XpressSuperApp
Event Overview
The campaign, held at the Dr. A. Santos LRT
Station Parking Lot, offers a dual focus:
• Driver Acquisition: Potential drivers can complete a fast-track
sign-up process, participate in live vehicle demonstrations—including BYD Car
Test Drives and Moto Taxi Skills Assessment Rides—and explore interactive
engagement stations featuring immediate registration support and incentives.
• Customer-Centric Innovation: Commuters and first-time Xpress app users
will experience service enhancements that ensure every ride is seamless, safe,
and reliable. Head of Operations Joshua Callueng will detail recent
improvements, and new app users can look forward to exclusive surprises and
rewards on their inaugural rides.
Key Highlights
• On-the-Spot Driver Onboarding: A dedicated team will facilitate immediate
registration, enabling new drivers to start earning the same day.
• Live Vehicle Demonstrations: Attendees can experience advanced vehicle
features designed for enhanced safety and efficiency.
• Interactive Engagement: Booths for app downloads, instant ride
discounts, and fun contests such as Spin-the-Wheel offer additional incentives
for both drivers and commuters.
• Empowering Driver Partners: Xpress President Cliff Cabungcal will
outline future initiatives aimed at supporting drivers through enhanced
training, technology upgrades, and incentive programs.
Community Partnership
Xpress is proud to be backed by Cebuana Lhuillier,
a longstanding pillar of the Filipino community renowned for its support and
financial stability. This strategic alliance brings tangible benefits to
drivers, including exclusive financing options via Cebuana Lhuillier’s BYD Car
Loan Pre-Approval.
Quote from Xpress
“Becoming an Xpress driver means joining a
movement that’s reshaping urban mobility in Metro Manila,” said a company
spokesperson. “XPRESS ARANGKADA not only offers immediate sign-up benefits for
aspiring drivers but also showcases customer-focused innovations that improve
every ride.”
Join Us
Aspiring drivers and commuters are invited to join
XPRESS ARANGKADA on March 8, 2025. This event represents a significant step in
Xpress’ commitment to transforming urban transportation through innovation and
community support. For more details, please visit www.xpress.ph.
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