Have Asia's dynastic tycoons suddenly been transported to Springfield, home of The Simpsons ? The run of spats in the region make for viewing almost as compulsive as that of America's favourite dysfunctional family.

In Hong Kong, one of three brothers has claimed his siblings had him diagnosed with bipolar disorder in order to attempt a management coup d'état at Sun Hung Kai Properties, a leading landlord. Meanwhile, Chinese language broadcaster, Television Broadcasts, is on the block. That appears to corroborate long-standing tittle-tattle that centenarian Sir Run Run Shaw's children are reluctant to take over the business he founded. And in Korea, the family dynasty that built up Samsung is in disarray following last month's resignation of Lee Kun-hee, who ran the conglomerate after taking over from his father two decades ago.