Latest news with #Rolls-RoycePhantom
Straits Times
2 hours ago
- Straits Times
$3b money laundering case: Singaporean jailed for lying to police about fugitive's luxury cars worth $8m
Liew Yik Kit, 42, is the first Singaporean to be convicted and sentenced in relation to Singapore's largest money laundering case. ST PHOTO: KELVIN CHNG SINGAPORE – The personal driver of Su Binghai - one of the fugitives in the $3 billion money laundering case – has been dealt with for lying to the police about his boss' luxury cars worth $8.3 million. Liew Yik Kit , 42, is the first Singaporean to be convicted and sentenced in relation to Singapore's largest money laundering case. On June 30 , Liew was sentenced to three months' jail after pleading guilty to lying to the police. Another charge of obstructing the course of justice was taken into consideration during sentencing. The $3 billion money laundering case saw 10 foreign nationals arrested in multiple islandwide raids here on Aug 15, 2023. The 10 foreigners have been jailed, deported and barred from re-entering Singapore. Su Binghai was driven by Liew out of Singapore via Tuas Checkpoint on the evening of Aug 15 – the day of the raids . The pair then stayed at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur before Liew dropped Su off at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on Aug 17, 2023. Investigations revealed that before Su flew off, he instructed Liew to help him sell his four luxury cars which were parked in his home in Singapore. These were a Rolls-Royce Phantom, a Rolls-Royce Cullinan, a Ferrari F8 Spider and a Ferrari Stradale worth a total of $8,364,297. Liew agreed as he expected to get a commission of around 1 per cent – or around $80,000 – for the sale of the cars. Su then left the four cars and their keys in Liew's possession. On Aug 18 , 2023, after returning to Singapore, Liew went to Su's house and drove the four cars out, one after another, and parked them at a multi-storey carpark at Upper Boon Keng Road. Deputy Public Prosecutor Louis Ngia said Liew did this despite not yet identifying a buyer for the cars as he wanted to quickly take control of the vehicles. Subsequently, Liew contacted car brokerage company Pro Carz to arrange the sale of the four cars. He then drove all four to Roxy Square on Sept 1, 2023. The keys to the four cars remained with Liew while the sale was being arranged. On Sept 11, 2023, Liew was called to give a statement on investigations into Su. He lied to the police that his boss did not leave any valuable properties in his possession. Worried that the police would find out that he had the keys to Su's four cars, Liew then drove the cars back to the multi-storey carpark at Upper Boon Keng Road. Liew's acts came to light when the police received information on Oct 5, 2023, that a blue Rolls-Royce, which was in the care of Su Binghai's brother, Su Bingwang, was found parked at Roxy Square's carpark . It was there because Liew was also arranging for it to be sold by Pro Carz, said DPP Ngia. This led the police to discover that the Pro Carz dealer had also applied for season parking at Roxy Square for the four other luxury cars – but they could not be found there. The car dealer later told the police that the four cars were in Liew's possession, and Liew was arrested. DPP Ngia said Su Binghai has not returned to Singapore since he left on Aug 15, 2023. In October 2024, Su Binghai and his wife, Wang Manzu, agreed for their assets to be surrendered to the state. These surrendered properties, including the four cars, were valued at more than $316.6 million, said the prosecutor. Assets worth about $1.85 billion have been surrendered to the state by 15 foreigners who are on the run from the police in relation to this money laundering case. In return, the Interpol Red and Blue Notices against them were withdrawn. Seeking a jail term of three to four months for Liew, DPP Ngia said Liew lied to the police as he was blinded by greed , trying to sell the cars to get a commission . Because he gave false information to the police, the cars were recovered almost one month later, and after significant effort had been put in the investigation, said the prosecutor. In mitigation, defence lawyer Kanagavijayan Nadarajan noted his client's early plea of guilt. Mr Kanagavijayan added that Liew subsequently cooperated with the police and helped the authorities recover two cars owned by Su Bingwang, Su Binghai's brother – a blue Rolls-Royce and a white McLaren. For giving false information to a public servant, an offender can be jailed for up to two years, fined, or both. Nadine Chua is a crime and court journalist at The Straits Times. Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
Miami Herald
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
These are the most popular cars in music
These are the most popular cars in music Cars and music are woven into the fabric of American culture. Artists have sung about cars and the open road since the early 1900s, and, regardless of genre, cars - and trucks - still serve as musical metaphors for freedom, ambition, and self-expression. But we wanted to know: Which cars get the most love in songs? Edmunds analyzed song lyrics from more than 1 million songs from the last 10 years, across multiple genres, to learn which makes, models and body styles find their way into contemporary music. Not surprisingly, the favorites that emerged blend elements of high-performance, status, luxury, and rock-solid dependability. Posh, power and muscle prized across genres You might not expect a hyperluxury car like the Rolls-Royce Phantom to dominate musical mentions, but it appears in 163 songs, followed closely by the Rolls-Royce Wraith with 134 musical cameos. It makes sense in the context of modern hip-hop and R&B, which often use ultra-luxury cars as symbols of accomplishment and wealth. But performance classics get nods, too, including the Porsche 911 (71 mentions), the Dodge Charger and Challenger, and the Chevrolet Corvette and Camaro. Kendrick Lamar, arguably today's most high-profile hip-hop artist, even named his most recent landmark album after the high-performance Buick GNX (or "Grand National Experiment") from the mid-1980s. The classic Chevrolet Impala, meanwhile, is a staple of lowrider culture and features prominently in hip-hop lyrics of the last three decades. Even luxury SUVs maintain a steady lyrical presence, with the Range Rover making 48 appearances, reflecting its cultural significance across different genres. Notable and niche name-drops Drilling deeper into the lyric sheets reveals even more unique shoutouts, such as the Bentley Mulsanne (20 mentions), which was discontinued in 2020; the Audi TT (19 mentions); and the Dodge Viper (15 mentions). The Cadillac Escalade gets 18 mentions, which isn't a big surprise given that the luxury SUV's sharp, boxy lines and classic American status have made it a staple in hip-hop and pop music videos. Even eco-friendly options like the Toyota Prius (17 mentions) and Nissan Leaf (12 mentions) get some recognition, while decidedly less eco-friendly vintage models like the Chevrolet Bel Air (10 mentions) and Dodge Challenger (12 mentions) echo a timeless love for Detroit classics. What drives different genres Hip-hop is rife with car references, more than any other modern genre. That's no surprise, as, like in rock music decades before it, cars represent success, status and self-expression in the stories of its songs. The influence goes beyond just name-dropping, though. In a song like Ludacris' "Roll Out (My Business)," his Mercedes becomes part of the story. Benzes, Bentleys, Ferraris, and Lamborghinis all assume character roles in many modern hip-hop lyrics, as rappers boast of the wealth they've amassed in order to afford them. Decades before, pop and rock artists used cars as symbols of freedom, rebellion, and romance in chart-topping hits and underground anthems. The Beach Boys rightfully get credit for mythologizing the early 1960s Southern California lifestyle in songs about surfing and driving, proclaiming their love for Ford hot rods ("Little Deuce Coupe") and Chevy V8 engines ("409"). They weren't the only ones though, as a cottage industry of artists, records and songs about cars sprung up in the 1960s and 1970s, including rockabilly artists like Vince Taylor, whose "Brand New Cadillac" became a popular deep track when covered by The Clash, and Commander Cody's "Hot Rod Lincoln." Cars were even central to the birth of rock music. "Rocket 88," by singer Jackie Brenston and future soul superstar Ike Turner, was released in early 1951. It's widely considered one of the first "rock" recordings for its vigorous shuffling beat, lively guitar and horn parts, and song structure that became a template for rock songs for the next two decades. Naturally, the song was about a car, in this case the Oldsmobile Rocket 88 that had been introduced only a couple of years earlier. Finally, one of the most famous songs of the 1980s was a lyrically loaded ode to love and romance wrapped in the metaphor of America's premier sports car. Prince's "Little Red Corvette" cracked the Top 10 singles chart in the U.S., U.K., and Australia. In America, it reached No. 6 in 1983. In 2016, following Prince's death, it reached No. 4. The single has sold nearly 1 million copies to date. Trucks and tradition Hip-hop and rock artists love their luxury cars, sports cars, and hot rods, but country artists tend to prefer trucks as their mobile muses. Pickups are the original utility vehicles, combining strength, capability and dependability - themes that are also rich for material in country music lyrics. The data shows a wide variety of truck mentions popping up across music genres, such as classic pickups and luxury SUVs often called "trucks" in song lyrics. The Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado get plenty of shoutouts, showing their iconic status in American culture, especially in country and rock music. Even SUVs get an occasional nod. The Chevrolet Tahoe is the seventh-most mentioned song in the dataset, merging the widely recognized truck brand with its popular SUV model. Recent truck sales data reveals how popular trucks compare in the real world to their musical mentions. According to the latest data, the Ford F-Series dominates U.S. vehicle sales with 765,649 units sold in 2024, maintaining its place as America's best-selling truck. The Chevrolet Silverado follows closely, both results mirroring their prevalence in song lyrics. The relative absence of lyrics for Ram pickups, on the other hand, suggests Ram's marketing team has some work to do. From motors to monikers Automotive influence in music extends beyond lyrics. Throughout music history, artists and bands have drawn inspiration from the automotive world for their stage names. From 1950s vocal groups like the Cadillacs and the El Dorados, to the Cadillac Tramps (1990s Orange County rockabilly punkers) and hair-metal guitarist C.C. DeVille, GM's luxury division has inspired more than a few band and artist names. Other GM badges have had similar influence, christening groups such as the Chevelles (Australia) and Chevelle (American), 1960s girl group the GTOs, and 1950s doo-wop group the Impalas. Texas blues legends the Fabulous Thunderbirds looked to Ford for inspiration, while another group of Texans, hard-rockers Pantera, cribbed their name from Italian car-cult favorite De Tomaso. Chicago soft-rockers REO Speedwagon took their name from a 1915 truck produced by Ransom Eli Olds' REO Motor Car Company, and went on to score several radio hits in the 1970s. New wave pioneers The Cars, meanwhile, embraced automotive branding in the most obviously direct way possible. Of course, cars are often named after existing objects and places, making the connection between car and band name sometimes tenuous. Did every 1960s garage surf band that landed on "The Mustangs" do it in tribute to the car or horse? Whatever the source, there's no denying the influence of automotive sheet metal on the musical world. Driving the beat Cars have always played a role in how musicians share their stories. Whether it's a country star praising his trusty pickup, a rock legend in a roadster, or a pop artist flexing her luxury wheels, cars are powerful symbols in music. And while it may take time for a new generation of music to articulate the passion and romance of electric cars, as long as there are cars and open roads, they'll permeate the soundtracks of our lives. This story was produced by Edmunds and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. © Stacker Media, LLC.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
He did not study after class 8. Today, he's viral for gifting his kid Rs 5 crore car. Who is billionaire Satish Sanpal? A look at his net worth, jaw-dropping lifestyle
Dubai-based billionaire Satish Sanpal recently made headlines after presenting his daughter, Isabella, with a striking pink Rolls-Royce Phantom . Valued at over Rs 5 crore, the luxury car instantly caught the attention of the public for its bold appearance and grand sentiment. With a shimmering metallic pink exterior and a custom white-and-pink leather interior, the car even bears Isabella's name and initials stitched into the seats. The number plate, specially engraved with a congratulatory message for Isabella, added a personal and emotional touch. According to a Bollywood Shaadis report, the car was custom-designed in the UK before being delivered to Dubai for the special occasion. The gesture quickly went viral, igniting a social media buzz across platforms. Who Is Satish Sanpal? Satish Sanpal is a high-profile entrepreneur with strong influence in Dubai's business landscape. He currently leads ANAX Holdings , a conglomerate reportedly valued at $3 billion, as stated by Bollywood Shaadis. Under the ANAX umbrella are companies like ANAX Developments, focused on luxury real estate; ANAX Hospitality, which manages upscale resorts and dining establishments; and ANAX Holdings, which strategically invests in diverse sectors. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villa For Sale in Dubai Might Surprise You Villas in Dubai | Search ads Learn More Undo Satish is married to Tabinda Sanpal, who holds a formal education in Business and finance. Tabinda is also a businesswoman and financial strategist, actively supporting and contributing to the couple's ventures. Together, they symbolize the next-generation Indian diaspora making significant strides in Dubai's high-end real estate and luxury service markets. From Humble Beginnings to Billionaire Status In a candid interview with National News , Satish spoke about his modest beginnings. He disclosed that he left formal education after the eighth grade and entered the business world at just 15 years old. With ₹50,000 borrowed from his mother, he launched a small grocery shop, which he operated for two years before facing financial loss. Undeterred, he pivoted to the stock market, working as a commission-based introducer between investors and brokers. He eventually moved to Dubai, seeking better opportunities. Sanpal emphasized that he has never worked under anyone and has always possessed a strong entrepreneurial spirit. His current personal net worth is estimated to be around Rs 500 crore, as per UAE Sigma. A Life of Luxury and Celebration Satish Sanpal is widely recognized for his love of luxury and his larger-than-life lifestyle. His affinity for high-end automobiles is well known. In 2023, he gifted himself a Bugatti Chiron worth RS 35 crore. Earlier in June, he celebrated his son Lakshya Sanpal by gifting him a white Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II Black Badge SUV. The recent pink Phantom given to Isabella is believed to be worth £500,000, or Rs 5.8 crore and considering the unique modifications, the final price could be even higher, according to The Sun. Beyond business and cars, Satish enjoys Bollywood culture. In February, he threw a lavish party for Isabella's first birthday. The star-studded affair featured performances by Atif Aslam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, with appearances by Tamannaah Bhatia and the Dubai Bling cast. Nora Fatehi added glamour with her electrifying dance moves, making the event a grand celebration fit for a billionaire's daughter.
Economic Times
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Economic Times
Billionaire Dubai dad sparks outrage after gifting 1-year-old daughter a £500K pink Rolls-Royce Phantom
A billionaire dad in Dubai made headlines after he gave his 1-year-old daughter a £500,000 pink Rolls-Royce Phantom. The internet is going wild, some people are impressed, but many are super angry. A rich businessman named Satish Sanpal, who lives in Dubai but is originally from India, gave his 1-year-old daughter Isabella a custom-made pink Rolls-Royce Phantom. The luxury car is worth £500,000, and with all the customizations, it probably cost even more, as per the report by The Sun. The Rolls-Royce was gifted to Isabella on Father's Day, and the entire moment was filmed and posted online, making it go viral. In the video, Satish is seen giving the keys of the car to his toddler while standing with his wife car is fully pink, with a super fancy metallic exterior and pink & white leather seats inside. The car's number plate even says, 'CONGRATULATIONS Isabella', and every seat has her initials stitched into it. The car was customized in the UK and then transported to Dubai for the occasion, as the imprints on each of its doors showed. The family however arrived in another one of the Roll- Royces, showing off their fleet. A pink carpet for the baby was rolled out at the venue, with the outside area clad in balloons, flowers and teddies. A sliding door greeted the parents and the offspring, with her name ISABELA and its initials ISS written on themIsabella was seen happily dancing with the event staff after seeing her gift, even though she can't legally drive for another 17 yearsMany users were angry, saying the gift was unnecessary and over-the-top. One person said: 'Charities are begging for support, and a toddler gets a Rolls-Royce?' Another called it: 'A tacky and flashy display of wealth.' Someone else wrote, 'The girl would've been happier at a water park', as per The Sun report. One person said, 'He worked hard, he earned it. Let him spend it on his family.' Another added: 'It's a sweet gesture. She's lucky to have a caring dad.'Back in February, Satish Sanpal also threw a crazy fancy birthday party for Isabella at the luxury hotel Atlantis The Royal in Dubai. He turned the whole place into a winter wonderland with fake snow, icy chandeliers, and frosted white trees, according to the report by The Sun.Q1. Who is Satish Sanpal? A Dubai-based billionaire businessman originally from India. He owns ANAX Developments. Q2. What gift did he give his daughter? He gifted his 1-year-old daughter a custom pink Rolls-Royce Phantom worth £500,000.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Everything fine with Princess of Wales? Kate Middleton to step back from spotlight, go online for rest of 2025
Kate Middleton is set to take a hiatus from the public glare for the rest of 2025, with reports saying that the Princess of Wales is suffering from some health issues and fatigue. She'll mostly be doing things online instead of going to royal events. Media eyebrows got raised at the Royal Ascot horse race, where Middleton was set to make an appearance but cancelled last minute, saying she was 'disappointed' that she couldn't make it. Sources said she was "disappointed" to miss it. Royal experts said Prince William would miss her a lot at the event, as per the report by Daily Beast. Tough times have built up for Kate But royal aides said her absence was 'no cause for alarm.' Now, it looks like her skipping the event might have been a sign of something more serious. A former royal staff member told the Daily Beast that the last few years have been really tough for Kate. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like The Simple Morning Habit for a Flatter Belly After 50! Lulutox Undo Earlier it was reported that that royal insiders believe that Kate might never fully recover from her chemotherapy treatment, even as she focusses on her health. Media reports also said that the princess believe she never got the required privacy for recovery. ALSO READ: Billionaire Dubai dad sparks outrage after gifting 1-year-old daughter a £500K pink Rolls-Royce Phantom Live Events According to the couple's friend, "there are some major shifts coming behind the scenes," People quoted. One of the changes is "building a trusted team of top advisers" as they prepare to become king and queen, as per a report by People. Reasons include, rumors and gossip about her and Prince William. The death of Queen Elizabeth. King Charles's cancer diagnosis which made them feel they had to step up. And then Kate's own cancer diagnosis and treatment. All of this has really affected her and caused emotional and physical stress. The former staffer said Prince William is fully supporting her and wants her to have more time to rest and recover. He'll 'fight tooth and nail' to make sure she gets it. Kate is slowing down to feel better The staffer also said Kate is now rethinking her whole life, especially the balance between work and health. She has never enjoyed being in the spotlight or the intense public attention. This week, the stress became too much for her. Because of this, experts think Kate will be seen much less in public this year. Instead, she'll do more things online or behind the scenes, still helping charities and causes she cares about. Her health is now the main priority, especially after going through chemotherapy. A source said, 'Kate will take it much easier for the rest of the year.' They also said, 'I'd be surprised if you see her more than three times in the next three months.' FAQs Q1. Why is Kate Middleton stepping back from royal duties? She's focusing on her health and recovery after cancer treatment. Q2. Is Kate Middleton okay? She's recovering, but the past years have been really stressful for her.
