Fact Check: Is Temu Causing the Maldives' Dollar Crunch?

An examination of the factors contributing to the Maldives' foreign currency shortage. VERDICT: MISLEADINGTemu has become a frequent target in discussions about the Maldives' foreign currency shortage. While online shopping contributes to US dollar outflows, available evidence does not support the claim that Temu is the primary cause of the shortage.The Maldives' dollar shortage is rooted in a combination of structural factors, including external debt repayments, heavy dependence on imports, tourism-related foreign exchange leakages and ongoing pressure on foreign currency reserves.[1][4][5]The FactsIn June 2025, Bank of Maldives introduced a 30% transaction fee on purchases from Temu, Shein, Alibaba, AliExpress, Lazada and eBay, citing high volumes of US dollar transactions on these platforms and the need to support essential foreign payments.[2]According to reporting based on Bank of Maldives data, online shopping accounts for approximately 75% of foreign purchases made b… Read more

Conducting a Corporate Training Needs Assessment: A Comprehensive Guide

IntroductionA Training Needs Assessment (TNA) is a structured approach used to identify gaps in employee skills, knowledge, and performance that may hinder organizational success. By addressing these gaps, companies can develop targeted training programs that enhance workforce capability, boost efficiency, and align employee development with business objectives.This guide provides a step-by-step overview of the Training Needs Assessment process, breaking it into practical phases for seamless implementation.Understanding the Training Needs Assessment ProcessA TNA typically consists of three levels of analysis:Organizational Analysis – Aligning training with strategic goals and business priorities.Task Analysis – Identifying job-specific skills and competencies necessary for operational success.Individual Analysis – Evaluating employee capabilities to highlight performance gaps and training needs.The process also involves data collection, gap analysis, prio… Read more

DBA vs. PhD: My Perspective on Their Recognition and Equivalence

The ongoing debate by Maldivians (in social media platforms) surrounding the equivalence and recognition of two prestigious degrees—the DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) and the PhD (Doctor of Philosophy)—is intriguing and multifaceted. While both are doctoral-level qualifications, their differences in purpose, scope, and recognition highlight their unique roles in the academic and professional worlds.
Key Differences Between DBA and PhD
1. Purpose In my opinion, the distinction between the purpose of these degrees defines their individuality. The PhD is tailored for those with aspirations of contributing to theoretical knowledge. It caters to individuals who envision themselves as researchers or academics deeply entrenched in the world of inquiry and discovery. The DBA, conversely, addresses applied research, making it an excellent fit for professionals keen on solving practical challenges in the business and management sphere.
2. Research Focus I admire the clarity in how these deg… Read more