HKOwnership & classification
Founded: 1903
Ownership
The South China Morning Post is owned by the Chinese e-commerce conglomerate Alibaba Group, which bought the SCMP's media assets in 2015-2016 for about US$266 million; the deal closed on 5 April 2016. Alibaba was co-founded by Jack Ma. Before Alibaba, the paper was controlled by Malaysian-Chinese tycoon Robert Kuok (from 1993), and earlier by Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation (from 1987). It was founded in 1903 in Hong Kong by Tse Tsan-tai and Alfred Cunningham.
Funding
Financed by advertising, digital subscriptions and the backing of its parent Alibaba, which has funded a global digital expansion and (in 2020) made the site free to read in many markets. It is not a state outlet but is bankrolled by a mainland-Chinese corporate owner.
Affiliation & stance
Privately corporate-owned rather than state-owned, but its mainland-Chinese owner Alibaba operates under Beijing's regulatory and political pressure, and critics say coverage of China has softened since the acquisition. Because control rests with a large Chinese commercial conglomerate aligned with Beijing's interests rather than with an editorially independent private publisher, it is best classed as DEPENDENT (the file's INDEPENDENT guess overstates its autonomy).
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Center
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 617
86/100
Factual
80/100
Objective
900
Articles
900
reports
Top stories
Most covered right now
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China signals openness to reducing gaping EU trade surplus as Brussels toughens stance
China brings a "Patriot killer" to the exhibition, but no one is impressed - Media
Recent coverage
Ukraine reports two dead after night attacks by Russia, with the death toll in Kiev rising to 30.
At least two people were killed and eight injured in Russian air strikes on the Sumy region and Kryvyj Rih in Ukraine during the night of Thursday to Friday, according to Ukrainian authorities. This follows a large-scale Russian attack on Kyiv earlier in the week which killed at least 30 people and injured around 100 others. In response to the attacks, Ukraine conducted missile strikes on Belgorod in Russia, causing a fire at an energy facility and killing one woman, according to Russian media. The overnight strike on the city of Romny in the Sumy region hit a residential building, killing two women and injuring a man, reported regional administrator Oleh Hryhorov via Telegram. Another seven people were injured in a missile strike on Kryvyj Rih, according to military city administrator Oleksandr Vilkul. In Kyiv, teams discovered three more dead bodies during the night, bringing the total number of victims to 30, according to Reuters citing Ukrainian health authorities. Kyiv's military administrator Tymur Tkačenko stated that the attack injured 99 people. Moscow claimed the extensive attack was a response to Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, including those carried
America’s first sphere of influence becomes the test of its power at 250
This article discusses the evolving U.S.-China rivalry in the Western Hemisphere, highlighting how both nations are asserting their influence. As the U.S. celebrates its 250th anniversary, it faces challenges from China's growing presence in regions like Brazil and Mexico. During the 2024 presidential campaign, former President Donald Trump downplayed concerns about this shift, claiming the U.S. was 'blowing everyone away.' However, his administration later took a more assertive stance by designating the Western Hemisphere as an 'American Homeland Security Zone,' drawing parallels to the Monroe Doctrine. In response, China released a policy paper rejecting 'hegemonism' and emphasizing its non-subordinate relationships with Latin American countries. The article frames the competition between the two superpowers as a renewed contest for regional dominance.
Alibaba bans staff from using Claude Code over Anthropic spyware concerns
Alibaba Group Holding has banned its employees from using Anthropic's Claude Code due to security concerns stemming from Anthropic's past use of hidden code to track Chinese users. The decision follows revelations by security researchers who identified potential backdoor risks in the software. Alibaba stated that Claude Code has been classified as high-risk software with security vulnerabilities and will be prohibited for use in the office starting July 10. The issue arose from Anthropic's embedding of code in its platform that could secretly determine if a user was located in China or associated with a Chinese AI laboratory. Alibaba, which owns the South China Morning Post, did not immediately respond to requests for further comment.
China’s satellite engine smashes record, leaves US rival far behind
China has successfully tested a new satellite engine with a record-breaking operational duration, marking a significant advancement in aerospace propulsion technology. The engine, developed by the China Academy of Aerospace Propulsion Technology, produced 750 newtons of thrust and operated for over 14 hours during testing, surpassing the typical seven-hour design limit of existing engines like the US-made R-42DM and Europe’s Leros-1B. This achievement allows for more efficient and reliable deployment of large communications, military, and deep-space satellites. The engine was used in a mission to place the Communications Technology Experiment Satellite 26A into orbit approximately 35,800 km above Earth. The extended operation was made possible through a specialized heat- and oxidation-resistant coating, ensuring performance remained unaffected despite the longer runtime.
Putin recognizes the oil map for the first time
Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged for the first time that Russia is building 'some oil reserves' during a meeting focused on energy issues. He emphasized the need to strengthen domestic oil production and increase output. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces continued their attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, detonating an oil purification plant in the southern Krasnodar region, which produces around four million tons of crude oil annually. The Krasnodar region is one of Russia's largest oil-producing areas located near the Black Sea. On Tuesday, Ukrainian forces launched large-scale air strikes on Sevastopol, the largest city on Crimea, including attacks on oil facilities. In response, Russia, which annexed Crimea in 2014, has restricted fuel sales to the public to counteract the energy shortages. According to reports, these attacks have had no impact on the front line. During an interview with a Russian state television station, Putin described the Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil infrastructure as an attempt to destabilize Russian society. He stated that Ukraine's goal was to halt the deployment of Russian military units to improve their position in arms control talks.
Will Johor-Singapore causeway bottlenecks sway outcome of Malaysia’s state election?
The article discusses the challenges faced by Malaysian workers in Singapore, particularly those in Johor, who are planning to vote in Malaysia's upcoming state election. These workers, referred to as 'SGD fighters' due to their higher Singapore-dollar wages, face logistical difficulties such as traffic congestion and long queues at the Johor-Singapore Causeway. The article highlights the importance of maintaining smooth transportation and immigration processes to ensure voter participation. One worker, Adli Hakimi, expresses concern over the current conditions and suggests the need for improved infrastructure, specifically a safer pedestrian option across the Causeway.
Merz hits back at Trump for ridiculing Germany’s defence spending drive
Chancellor Friedrich Merz defended Germany's defense spending increase, countering criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump who called Germany's efforts 'ridiculous.' Merz emphasized that Germany is doubling its defense budget within four years, stating it is the country's greatest effort to strengthen defense capabilities. The discussion comes ahead of NATO meetings in Ankara, where European nations aim to address tensions with Trump over issues like Iran and Greenland while demonstrating increased commitment to collective defense. Trump criticized NATO allies' defense spending on social media, arguing that the U.S. should not follow a 'one-sided path' and highlighting that Germany's spending remains significantly lower than the U.S. or other NATO members.
Anwar vows Malaysia to pursue Jho Low over 1MDB despite potential US pardon
Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that his country will continue pursuing Jho Low, the alleged orchestrator of the 1MDB corruption scandal, regardless of whether Low receives a potential U.S. presidential pardon. Jho Low was charged in 2018 for conspiracy to launder billions from Malaysia's sovereign wealth fund and violating anti-bribery laws. He is accused of using illicit funds to acquire luxury assets, including a superyacht and high-end art. The 1MDB scandal, initiated by former Prime Minister Najib Razak in 2009, led to widespread public outrage and contributed to his ousting in the 2018 election. Low had requested clemency from then-President Donald Trump, who may consider pardoning him as part of commemorating America's 250th Independence Day. Anwar emphasized that any decision regarding Low's pardon lies solely with the U.S. authorities.
Thai Singha beer dynasty heir’s mother drops suit under ‘ungrateful child’ law
The mother of Siranudh 'Psi' Scott, a 29-year-old heir to Thailand's Singha beer fortune, has withdrawn her lawsuit against him under a 1908 filial duty law. The case was initiated by Chiranuj Bhirombhakdi, who accused Psi of being an 'ungrateful child.' The lawsuit followed public outrage over Psi's allegations of sexual abuse against his older brother Sunit, which led to a family crisis and Sunit's removal from executive roles at the family's brewery. After court-mediated discussions, Chiranuj stated she has withdrawn the lawsuit to allow the family time to heal.
Carlson’s split with Republicans to deepen rifts in US right, Chinese think tank says
A Chinese think tank has stated that Tucker Carlson's departure from the Republican Party and his criticism of President Donald Trump could worsen divisions within the U.S. right wing and harm the party's chances in the upcoming midterm elections. Carlson, a prominent conservative commentator, has criticized the administration's actions, particularly the decision to engage in conflict with Iran. He plans to help establish a new political party but does not intend to run for office himself. The think tank argues that Carlson's exit reflects growing internal conflicts within the conservative movement, especially regarding Trump's policies on Iran and the economy. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a former congresswoman, supported Carlson's stance, claiming many conservatives feel betrayed by the party.
As the US marks its 250th birthday, it operates an empire in all but name
The article discusses the 250th anniversary of the United States' independence while reflecting on the historical shift from a republic to an empire. It notes that the U.S. acquired territories such as the Philippines after the Spanish-American War, a move opposed by figures like Mark Twain and William James. The piece highlights the debates around imperialism and mentions how modern leaders, including Donald Trump, have shown interest in expanding U.S. influence, such as through potential actions involving Greenland and the Panama Canal. The article emphasizes concerns about executive overreach and the erosion of democratic principles.
Make Hong Kong China’s ‘space finance capital’, legal group urges Beijing
An independent legal group, the Asian Academy of International Law, has proposed that Hong Kong be designated as China's 'space finance capital' to support the commercial development of the aerospace sector under the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030). The group suggests Hong Kong leverage its status as an international financial center, common-law jurisdiction, and connectivity hub to serve as a strategic gateway for China's commercial space activities. It recommends establishing a space asset registration and finance ordinance to provide legal certainty for financing space-related assets. The proposal highlights Hong Kong's role in providing capital markets, legal infrastructure, and global connectivity, while mainland China would focus on technology, manufacturing, and sovereign capabilities. The idea aligns with Beijing's growing emphasis on aerospace as a key driver of innovative productivity, spurred by increased public interest following the selection of Lai Ka-ying as Hong Kong's first astronaut.
Hong Kong IPOs ride China’s tech wave, but Nasdaq leads way with SpaceX tsunami
In the first half of 2026, Hong Kong saw a significant increase in IPO fundraising, with proceeds rising by approximately 84% compared to the same period in 2025. Despite losing its position as the top IPO market to Nasdaq—primarily due to SpaceX's massive $75 billion listing—the region remains a crucial offshore financial hub for Chinese companies. A total of 83 companies raised $26.42 billion through IPOs on Hong Kong's main board, with Chinese issuers accounting for 98.5% of the total proceeds. Technology firms were particularly prominent, making up 53.1% of IPO funds across 31 deals. Analysts noted that Hong Kong continues to attract Chinese tech leaders seeking to raise capital, while Nasdaq remained the global leader in IPO fundraising.
Overlooked
Under-reported & one-sided
