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Colosseum Establishes Japan Subsidiary to Accelerate Entry into Local Logistics Market

SEOUL, South Korea, Dec. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Colosseum Corporation, a global logistics DX partner led by CEO Park Jin-soo, has officially completed the establishment of its Japan subsidiary and is launching a full-scale expansion into the country’s fast-growing e-commerce logistics market.

Since its founding in 2019, Colosseum has built an asset-light logistics network by connecting and upgrading more than 53 professional fulfillment centers globally or worldwide. Instead of constructing its own warehouses, the company transforms underutilized facilities and idle labor into high-performance logistics hubs, establishing itself as one of Korea’s notable logistics-tech innovators.

With the launch of the Japan subsidiary, Colosseum will introduce Colo AI, its AI-powered logistics SaaS solution equipped with an advanced Warehouse Management System (WMS) designed specifically for Japanese on-site operations. The company noted that both Korea and Japan have traditionally focused on OMS (Order Management System), while the WMS—which directly influences the efficiency of receiving, storage, picking, and outbound processes—has not sufficiently evolved.

Executive Director Yoo In-hyung explained, “The Japanese market prioritizes on-site efficiency and data-driven operations. As the market handles a large volume of multi-SKU, small-lot orders, operational stability—such as picking accuracy, route control, and inventory precision—becomes critical. This is why the WMS plays a particularly important role.”

He added, “Based on the WMS-driven operational expertise we built in Korea and the United States, we prepared the Japan subsidiary with confidence that our experience will transfer effectively. We will offer a localized solution reflecting Japanese warehouse layouts, labor practices, workflow styles, and inventory rules.”

Colosseum’s Colo AI integrates OMS, TMS, and WMS into a unified platform that automatically optimizes picking routes, packaging methods, and order mapping. It also supports integrations with major Japanese e-commerce platforms such as Qoo10 Japan and Rakuten, significantly improving fulfillment productivity for local sellers.

Through its new entity, Colosseum will strengthen logistics connectivity between Korea and Japan while providing end-to-end fulfillment services covering inventory storage, order handling, and last-mile delivery. The company aims to offer Japanese consumers faster and more reliable delivery experiences.

Colosseum also brings proven operational expertise from its Los Angeles hub, where it has stably operated a fulfillment center in partnership with global beauty platform CTKCLIP. In addition, Colo AI has demonstrated its competitiveness in both Korea and the United States by delivering substantial efficiency gains, including up to 250 minutes of reduced labor time, up to 45% lower logistics costs, and up to 6.9 times higher processing volume.

Casio to Release 25 Design Calculators

Delivering Joy with Plenty of Color and Style Choices

TOKYO, Dec. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Casio Computer Co., Ltd. announced the release of 25 new design calculators.



The 25 new design calculators offer users an abundant choice of colors to suit a wide range of personal preferences and lifestyles. As Casio celebrates the 60th anniversary of its electronic desktop calculator business, the company has reviewed the essential qualities of its design calculators. As a result, the company has updated the look of its design calculator series to appeal to today’s trends.

■Colorful Calculator

This lineup offers a broad color palette — from monotone and pastel to smoky tones — in two-tone calculators that work great in both casual daily use and business settings. The Mini Desk Type MS-20YC (10 colors) features a rounded, simple design that fits comfortably in the hand, while the Portable Type SL-310YC (5 colors) offers a sleek, compact from that slips easily into a pocket. Users can choose from a wide range of colors to match their style and intended use.

■Stylish Calculator

This slim, stylish lineup focuses on refined color tones and premium textures. The metal-finish Iron Black variation features a luxurious hairline texture, while the Ice Blue and Shiny Gold variations have a sophisticated blasted finish. The resin-finish Misty Green and Silky White variations are crafted with a soft matte-pearl sheen. The LCD and solar panel are integrated into a single surface layout, creating a simple design that highlights the texture of the material. The layered back design ensures a comfortable grip on this slim device. The Stylish Calculator lineup includes the Compact Desk Type JW-200DQ (5 colors), and the Mini Desk Type MS-200DQ (5 colors). These sophisticated calculators are suitable for a variety of purposes, from business use to gift giving.

With these new products, Casio reaffirms its commitment to offering not only practical calculation tools but also the joy of fun, personalized choices.

Availability of these new calculators may vary by country.

■Colorful Calculator site

MS-20YC   https://www.casio.com/intl/basic-calculators/product.MS-20YC-RD/
SL-310YC  https://www.casio.com/intl/basic-calculators/product.SL-310YC-BK/

■Stylish Calculator site

JW-200DQ  https://www.casio.com/intl/basic-calculators/product.JW-200DQ-GN/
MS-200DQ  https://www.casio.com/intl/basic-calculators/product.MS-200DQ-GN/

■Electronic desktop calculator 60th Anniversary special site
https://web.casio.com/calculator/60th/

Oxford Instruments launches Imaris 11: boosting research productivity with clear, workflow-driven image analysis

LONDON, Dec. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Oxford Instruments announces the release of Imaris 11, the latest generation of its industry-leading 3D/4D microscopy image visualisation and analysis software. The new version introduces an intuitive Workflow system, enhanced batch processing, and advanced tools for object detection and data exploration—designed to help researchers across the region achieve faster, more reproducible, and higher-quality insights.

New Imaris 11 - Automate the routine, Amplify the insight
New Imaris 11 – Automate the routine, Amplify the insight

Imaris 11 supports the rapidly expanding life science and biotechnology ecosystems in Southeast Asia by enabling streamlined data analysis, improved collaboration, and robust experimental reproducibility.

Clear, guided workflows to accelerate research

At the heart of Imaris 11 is the introduction of Workflows, a step-by-step protocol system that enables users to create, save, and share image analysis processes directly within the software. Workflows streamline analysis by guiding users through each step, making them an invaluable tool for both new and experienced users. Workflows can be exported and imported between datasets or users, allowing for seamless collaboration and reproducibility.

In addition, Workflows can act as Batch protocols, automating complex analyses while also supporting manual intervention steps. This unique combination of automation and flexibility significantly reduces the time spent on repetitive tasks, especially when processing large datasets.

New features that simplify complex analysis

  • Object detection inside surface-defined ROIs – Precisely identify Spots, Filaments, Cells, and more within user-defined regions
  • Automated channel mask creation – Use Surfaces and Spots as masks to generate targeted channels across datasets
  • Machine learning filters – Enhanced ML-based detection and classification for improved accuracy
  • Advanced batch processing – Combine automated analysis with manual intervention steps to maintain precision at scale

Improved visualisation and exploration and data exploration

Imaris 11 delivers powerful tools for consistent visualisation and cross-dataset comparisons:

  • Snapshots – Save multiple “Views” including channel settings and colour schemes, then batch-apply them across datasets for consistent presentation and fast quality checks
  • 1D & 2D Vantage – Compare analysis results across experimental groups to uncover patterns, differences, and correlations in complex studies

These features are particularly valuable for multi-sample experiments, high-content imaging workflows, clinical research, and industrial R&D.

Customer-centric innovation

“Imaris 11 is a game-changer for researchers,” said Anna Paszulewicz, Imaris Product Manager at Oxford Instruments.

“By combining intuitive workflows with powerful automation and data exploration tools, we’re making advanced microscopy image analysis more accessible, efficient, and insightful for research communities across the world.”

Availability

Imaris 11 is available now.
For more information or to request a free trial:
https://www.oxinst.com/regional-connect/imaris-11/

Issued for and on behalf of Oxford Instruments Imaging and Analysis

Notes to Editors 

About Oxford Instruments plc

Oxford Instruments provides academic and commercial organisations worldwide with market-leading scientific technology and expertise across its key market segments: Materials Analysis, Healthcare & Life Science and Semiconductors.

Innovation is the driving force behind Oxford Instruments’ growth and success, supporting its core purpose to accelerate the breakthroughs that create a brighter future for our world. The vigorous search for new ways to make our world greener, healthier and more productive is driving unprecedented levels of R&D investment in new materials and techniques to support productivity and decarbonisation worldwide, creating a significant opportunity for Oxford Instruments to grow.

Oxford Instruments holds a unique position to anticipate global drivers and connect academic researchers with commercial applications engineers, acting as a catalyst that powers real world progress.

Founded in 1959 as the first technology business to be spun out from Oxford University, Oxford Instruments is now a global company listed on the FTSE250 index of the London Stock Exchange (OXIG).

For more information, visit www.oxinst.com

New Imaris 11 Release
New Imaris 11 Release

Meta, L’OCCITANE, and Omnichat Redefine Loyalty Experiences on WhatsApp

SINGAPORE, Dec. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Omnichat, a leading omnichannel AI platform, recently hosted the third edition of the Commerce Leadership Forum at Meta Singapore’s office. This event brought together senior leaders from across the region to explore how AI-powered business messaging is transforming the retail, beauty, and lifestyle sectors in APAC. Industry leaders from Meta and L’OCCITANE discussed the rapid adoption of WhatsApp as a key commercial channel, highlighting its evolution from mere customer support to an engaging channel for high-intent customers, driving conversions and fostering long-term loyalty.

L’OCCITANE shared how WhatsApp has become the brand’s primary customer touchpoint across different markets in APAC, now accounting for more than 80% of inbound and outbound customer conversations. The brand revealed that personalised conversational journeys are already unlocking profitable outcomes compared to traditional channels. This commercial uplift, paired with real-time engagement, has allowed L’OCCITANE to extend relationship-building beyond transactional touchpoints, creating a long-lasting brand loyalty.

“For us, loyalty begins the moment a customer chooses to stay connected with the brand. By using WhatsApp as a unified touchpoint, we can move customers seamlessly from online discovery to in-store engagement without losing context. Customers enjoy a consistent and personalised experience wherever they interact with us, be it on Facebook, Instagram, or WhatsApp,” said Terrence Siu, Chief Information Officer, APAC at L’OCCITANE.

L’OCCITANE extends this seamless experience into a complete loyalty journey by also using Omnichat and WhatsApp to deliver their sampling products, VIP privileges, and post-purchase experience — ensuring customers continue to feel guided and valued long after the first transaction. “By distributing samples and exclusive VIP offers directly through WhatsApp, we can convert interest into purchase immediately in the same channel the customer already uses. This approach has lifted our coupon redemption rate to 87%. Once the customer is connected, we continue the journey through personalised refill and replenishment reminders, helping us maintain an ongoing relationship rather than a one-time transaction. WhatsApp has become a loyalty bridge — from sampling, to purchase, to repeat purchase — all within one seamless customer journey,” he added.

Meta reinforced this shift toward messaging-led commerce by sharing YouGov’s new regional insights, which show that 32% to 43% of APAC shoppers now use business messaging to track orders, complete purchases, and stay connected with brands throughout the sales cycle — especially during high-value moments such as seasonal campaigns and mega sale days. With business messaging now integrated into the customer lifecycle, WhatsApp has effectively become the default loyalty channel for high-intent engagement in Asia.

“We are seeing the shopping journey become more conversational because consumers now want dialogue, not one-way marketing,” said Vicky Yiu, APAC Strategic Partnership Manager, Business Messaging at Meta. “WhatsApp is increasingly becoming the commerce layer for brand engagement in Asia. Customers don’t just browse — they consult, request support, complete transactions, and revisit brands all within messaging threads. When businesses move to a messaging-led experience, they shift from campaigns to relationships — and that is where long-term loyalty is earned.”

Omnichat, the WhatsApp Business Solution Provider, powering these loyalty journeys, highlighted how brands can transform membership from a passive database into an active relationship engine. Instead of waiting for customers to open an app or remember a loyalty programme, WhatsApp allows brands to remain present in the customer’s daily routine — enabling real-time rewards, VIP benefits, and reactivation triggers at the moment of intent. By consolidating multi-channel identity into a unified customer profile and using AI to trigger personalised re-engagement flows, Omnichat helps brands convert one-time buyers into loyal members at significantly lower Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) than reacquisition.

“What we are seeing across the region is that loyalty only works when it is active, not passive. Points sitting in an app don’t translate into customer relationships, but loyalty delivered through WhatsApp stays close to the customer’s daily behaviour. By linking QR codes to product samples, in-store touchpoints, and messaging-based rewards, brands can proactively engage members in real time — instead of waiting for them to remember the program. This is the difference between a loyalty database and a loyalty journey. When customers are reminded, recognised and rewarded in the channel they already use every day, loyalty becomes a habit — and unlike apps, no one uninstalls WhatsApp,” said Alan Chan, CEO & Founder of Omnichat.

This forum marks a broader shift in how APAC brands are approaching customer growth — moving away from one-time campaigns toward relationship-led loyalty that lives inside everyday messaging behaviour. As more consumers abandon passive loyalty apps and expect real-time interaction, WhatsApp is emerging not just as a service channel, but as the foundation of a modern loyalty ecosystem. By bringing discovery, rewards, education, and re-engagement into a single continuous journey, brands can now build loyalty where it matters most — inside the conversations customers are already having.

From left: Alan Chan (Founder & CEO at Omnichat), Terrence Siu (Chief Information Officer, APAC  at L’OCCITANE), Vicky Yiu (APAC Strategic Partnership Manager, Business Messaging at Meta), Lily Yeung (VP of Marketing & Communications at Omnichat), Avery Tang (VP of Customer Success and Presales at Omnichat), Stanley Chan (VP of Sales SEA at Omnichat), and Ian Chan (Chief Technology Officer at Omnichat)
From left: Alan Chan (Founder & CEO at Omnichat), Terrence Siu (Chief Information Officer, APAC at L’OCCITANE), Vicky Yiu (APAC Strategic Partnership Manager, Business Messaging at Meta), Lily Yeung (VP of Marketing & Communications at Omnichat), Avery Tang (VP of Customer Success and Presales at Omnichat), Stanley Chan (VP of Sales SEA at Omnichat), and Ian Chan (Chief Technology Officer at Omnichat)

About Omnichat

Omnichat is a leading provider of AI-powered conversational commerce solutions for the Asia-Pacific region. Uniquely positioned as both the sole Meta Business Partner and LINE Biz-Solutions Tech Partner in APAC with integrated WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, LINE, WeChat capabilities, Omnichat empowers brands to centralise communications, deliver personalised experiences, and drive digital transformation across their operations. Over 5,000 brands, including international retailers and enterprises, leverage Omnichat to optimise their customer journeys.

Website: https://www.omnichat.ai/sg
WhatsApp: https://wa.me/6586288791/?text=EnquiryForWhatsApp
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/omnichat-easychat/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OmnichatAI

Media contacts:
(1) Maheswari Ganga
Marketing Manager, Omnichat
Email: mahes@omnichat.ai
Mobile: +6016 660 4254

(2) Lily Yeung
Regional Vice President, Marketing & Communications (GC & SEA), Omnichat
Email: lily.yeung@omnichat.ai
Mobile: +852 9803 5977

MetaOptics Announces Strategic Share Placement to Accelerate Growth and Meet Rising Global Demand

SINGAPORE, Dec. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MetaOptics Ltd (Catalist: 9MT) (“MetaOptics” or the “Company“, and together with its subsidiaries, the “Group“), a leading-edge semiconductor optics company, announced that it is proposing to raise S$4.85 million through a placement of 6,685,028 new ordinary shares in the capital of the Company (“Placement Shares“) at S$0.7255 per Placement Share (“Share Placement“).

The proceeds from the Share Placement are expected to (i) strengthen the Group’s financial position and expand the capital base of the Group to support the fulfilment of an anticipated growing pipeline of global customer purchase orders, and (ii) provide liquidity and funding to provide for the Group’s general working capital requirements.

The proceeds from the Share Placement will reinforce working capital, enhance supply-chain readiness and accelerate MetaOptics’ scaling plans for its glass-based metalens solutions as demand rises across consumer devices, automotive systems and emerging industrial applications.

The participating investors in the Share Placement comprise new investors and existing shareholders of the Company, who have been following the Company’s technology progress and commercial developments since the Company’s listing on the Catalist board of the SGX-ST in September 2025. Their participation reflects increasing global interest in metalens technology as companies seek thinner, lighter and more power-efficient optical systems that can be manufactured at scale.

Mr Thng Chong Kim, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of MetaOptics, said:

“We are very encouraged by the confidence shown by existing and new investors who recognise the scale of the opportunity ahead of us. MetaOptics is seeing strong commercial momentum as adoption of metalens technology increases across multiple high-growth markets. This capital injection strengthens our ability to serve customers, execute on delivery commitments and advance our product roadmap.”

MetaOptics continues to gain traction in applications ranging from compact mobile imaging modules to ultra-thin optics and advanced optical components for automotive and data connectivity. The Company’s quick-turn 4-inch Direct Laser Writer (“DLW“) and scalable 12-inch Deep Ultraviolet lithography (“DUV“) platforms enable customers to progress from prototyping to high-volume production with precision and consistency.

The Company remains focused on executing its commercial rollout and supporting customers worldwide with high-performance metalens solutions. MetaOptics will also provide further updates on the Share Placement as and when appropriate.

This press release is to be read in conjunction with MetaOptics’ announcement on the Share Placement released via SGXNet on 1 December 2025.

ABOUT METAOPTICS

MetaOptics Ltd (Catalist. 9MT) is a leading-edge semiconductor optics company pioneering glass-based metalens solutions enhanced by AI-driven image processing. Combining advanced optical design, quick turn 4-inch DLW and scalable 12-inch DUV lithography platforms, MetaOptics powers next-generation applications in CPO, mobile, AR VR, automotive and other emerging markets. Headquartered in Singapore, MetaOptics aims to deliver high-performance optics with the reliability and scalability demanded by today’s most innovative technology brands.

Helios 50 MW BESS achieves commercial operations in Hokkaido, Japan

TOKYO, Dec. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Manoa Energy (“Manoa” or the “Company”) today announced the start of commercial operations for the Helios 50MW Battery Energy Storage System (“BESS”) in Sapporo City, Hokkaido, Japan.

The Helios 50MW / 104 MWh BESS was developed in partnership with Brawn and HD Renewable Energy Japan (HDJP) by Brawn’s 100% owned Japan based development platform Manoa Energy (“Manoa”). 

“Successful completion of our first standalone Extra High Voltage BESS asset emphasizes our commitment to sustainable infrastructure investment in Japan. Brawn will continue to develop our additional 1GW pipeline of Extra High Voltage and High Voltage assets throughout Japan, for commercial operations between 2026 and 2030.” said Scott Reinhart, CEO of Brawn.

Helios construction began in April 2024. The project uses Tesla Megapack 2XL batteries, while Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) was managed by HOKKAIDENKO Corporation. The Helios asset is a 100% merchant BESS which will participate in the wholesale, balancing, and capacity markets.

Dean Cooper, Head of Manoa Energy and COO of Brawn said “Japan’s energy storage sector is experiencing rapid acceleration, positioning Japan among the world’s most dynamic energy storage markets. Manoa Energy is excited to be part of Japan’s energy transition momentum, as the country emphasizes battery energy storage systems as a strategic priority for its critical energy infrastructure.”

About Brawn 

Brawn is an alternative investment manager focused on accelerating the energy transition across the Asia-Pacific region. With over 300+ projects purchased to date and a proven track record in renewable energy and infrastructure, Brawn specializes in originating, developing, and managing utility-scale projects, particularly in energy storage and clean energy solutions.

Along with its Japan energy storage portfolio, Brawn is also a strategic partner with Singapore based DDSP – a developer of next-generation digital and decarbonized energy infrastructure across Asia-Pacific. Focused on delivery for hyperscale clients alongside long-term operational partners, DDSP combines deep sectoral expertise across technical, operational, and investment disciplines to deliver and scale infrastructure in complex, underserved, and high-growth markets

Committed to global ESG principles, Brawn delivers sustainable investments that drive decarbonization while creating long-term value for stakeholders.

YEAHKA’s Q3 In-Store E-Commerce Business Sustains Profitability, Partnering with Renowned Brands Such as Midea, Toshiba, and China Telecom

HONG KONG, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — YEAHKA Limited (Stock Code: 9923.HK), a leading commerce enablement technology platform, issued a voluntary announcement. The report revealed that the Company’s value-added services business continued to demonstrate high-quality growth and robust profitability in the third quarter of 2025.

Its in-store e-commerce business performed particularly well, achieving monthly profitability consecutively since the second quarter. Under a more stable business model, YEAHKA successfully expanded in both domestic and overseas markets, with its business brand QIANQIANHUI having served renowned chains including Midea, Toshiba, China Telecom, COLMO, and Li Shan Shan Tea House.

It is particularly noteworthy that the Company became one of the first Douyin service providers in the Hong Kong SAR and Macau regions during the third quarter. Currently, YEAHKA offers online marketing services to overseas merchants in locations including Hong Kong (China), Macau (China), and Singapore. Through localized marketing strategies and innovative approaches, it has successfully helped local F&B brands attract customer traffic both domestically and internationally.

The owner of Ha Ming Kee, a Hong Kong chain restaurant, stated in an interview that with YEAHKA’s in-store e-commerce services, inviting influencers for authentic content creation, the proportion of mainland Chinese tourists at its Tak Shing branch reached 30% within just over a year. Prior to the promotion, the store had almost no mainland customers. But now, many tourists specifically visit to dine after sightseeing nearby.

Regarding domestic operations, YEAHKA has partnered with the leading home appliance brand Midea, providing local lifestyle services. Using diverse methods such as livestreaming and short videos, it has generated greater exposure for Midea’s brand and products, driving sales and achieving brand building at the same time.

To date, YEAHKA and Midea have jointly executed several major livestreaming events. Specifically, the in-store e-commerce team recently collaborated with Midea on an outdoor livestream from Jiuzhaigou, taking users on a online tour of the scenic area. By setting the livestream within a national-level IP landscape, they built a high-value brand perception, attracting a large audience of viewers and generating orders.

Singapore businesses lead in AI and data adoption, but face cybersecurity challenges

  • Strong adoption of AI tools among Singapore businesses
  • Current cybersecurity readiness can be enhanced
  • High AI adoption boosts productivity, but human oversight is essential

SINGAPORE, Dec. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Singapore businesses are rapidly embracing digital transformation, with strong uptake of artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics tools, but continue to lag in cybersecurity maturity, according to the latest survey by global professional accounting body CPA Australia.

Technology adoption for businesses in Singapore in 2025.
Technology adoption for businesses in Singapore in 2025.

The annual Business Technology Survey found that 95 per cent of businesses in Singapore use data analytics and visualisation software such as Python, Power BI and Excel, slightly above the survey average of 93 per cent.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption follows closely at 92 per cent, also ahead of the survey average of 89 per cent. Nearly one in five organisations in Singapore have deeply embedded AI across their business operations, positioning Singapore as a front-runner in strategic AI use.

However, the most common form of AI use remains ad-hoc and occasional adoption, reported by 44 per cent of organisations. This typically involves deploying readily available AI tools such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini, and using AI assistants embedded in productivity platforms such as Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace. 

CPA Australia Singapore Divisional President, and Digital Business and Risk Services Leader at PwC Singapore, Greg Unsworth, said: “Singapore’s strong foothold in AI reflects the nation’s continued push towards digital transformation and operational excellence. However, businesses must move beyond experimentation and strategically integrate AI across functions to unlock its full value.”

Despite the strong digital adoption, Singapore’s cybersecurity maturity remains a key vulnerability. Only 23 per cent of businesses have fully integrated cybersecurity into their business strategy and operations, below the survey average of 28 per cent.

Further, 69 per cent of businesses report using cybersecurity software, trailing the survey average of 81 per cent. This presents a deep concern as organisations may be exposed to increased risk as they expand their digital footprints.

The survey revealed that 17 per cent of organisations take a reactive approach to cyber threats, only responding to threats as they arise rather than through structured prevention. Additionally, 11 per cent are unsure how cybersecurity is managed internally, pointing to gaps in governance and communication.

“Cybersecurity must be a strategic priority as digital adoption accelerates,” Mr Unsworth said. “The rise of AI-enabled threats, from sophisticated phishing to deepfake impersonation, makes it critical for businesses to strengthen their cyber resilience. Trust must be earned and reinforced through every digital interaction.”

Respondents highlighted the notable benefits from AI adoption. Over the past year, Singapore businesses have leveraged technology to streamline workflows, automate repetitive tasks, and enabled greater speed and precision in decision-making. These gains have translated into better employee experiences, with staff spending less time on mundane tasks and more time on higher-value tasks. At the same time, customer experience has improved as organisations use AI to deliver more personalised, responsive and data-informed services.

However, these benefits are accompanied by challenges. Growing reliance on AI raises concerns around human oversight and accountability, especially in decisions requiring judgement or ethical considerations. Some organisations are experiencing job displacement in routine or entry-level roles, and many continue to struggle with integrating AI into legacy systems.

Cultural and organisational barriers, such as resistance to change and limited staff buy-in and lack of understanding and trust in AI technologies, also hinder adoption. These issues are compounded by high implementation costs, uncertain returns on investment, limited digital literacy among senior leaders, a shortage of technology talent, and intensifying data privacy and security concerns.

Despite these hurdles, AI remains essential for businesses looking to stay competitive.

CPA Australia member and Director & Head of OCISO, APJ for Google Cloud, Daryl Pereira said: “AI’s potential is transformative, yet it remains a powerful co-worker, not a replacement for human ingenuity. As businesses accelerate AI adoption, they must be deliberate in preserving and elevating valuable human skills. The shift requires organisational leadership to proactively rethink roles, redesign workflows, and invest heavily in continuous learning. By prioritising upskilling and fostering cross-functional collaboration, companies can maintain a competitive edge and empower their teams to innovate responsibly.”

As Singapore continues to lead in digital adoption, investing in cybersecurity maturity and fostering a culture of responsible innovation, businesses can unlock the full potential of AI and data to drive sustainable growth and global competitiveness.

About the survey

CPA Australia’s 5th annual Business Technology Survey was conducted between July and September 2025. It explores business technology trends across various sectors, business sizes and markets. The survey received responses from 1,117 accounting and finance professionals working in different markets, including Australia, Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR, Malaysia and Singapore. 44 per cent of respondents worked in companies with 500 or more employees, 29 per cent in companies with 50 to 499 employees and 28 per cent in companies with fewer than 50 employees.

About CPA Australia

CPA Australia is one of the largest professional accounting bodies in the world, with more than 175,000 members in over 100 countries and regions, including more than 8,600 members in Singapore. CPA Australia has been operating in Singapore since 1954 and opened our Singapore office in 1989. Our core services include education, training, technical support and advocacy. CPA Australia provides thought leadership on issues affecting the accounting profession and public interest Find out more at cpaaustralia.com.au