Investing Updates: Singapore stocks track global rally; STI up 1.3% after hitting new high

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/singapore-stocks-track-global-rally-sti-1-3-after-hitting-new-high

ChatGPT:

Singapore stocks closed firmly higher on Friday (Jan 23), tracking a broad global rally and pushing the benchmark Straits Times Index (STI) to a fresh all-time high. The STI touched an intraday record of 4,895.15 before ending the session up 1.3 per cent, or 63.13 points, at 4,891.45. The iEdge Singapore Next 50 Index also advanced, rising 0.3 per cent to 1,487.74.

Market breadth was positive, with gainers outnumbering losers by 345 to 213 across the broader market. Trading activity was robust, with around 1.3 billion securities changing hands for a total value of approximately S$2 billion.

The rally was led by Singapore’s banking heavyweights, which reached new highs. UOB emerged as the top performer on the STI, surging 5 per cent, or S$1.88, to close at S$39.50. OCBC also delivered strong gains, climbing 3.4 per cent, or S$0.70, to end at S$21.29. DBS added to the positive momentum, rising nearly 1 per cent to finish at S$58.65. In contrast, Yangzijiang Shipbuilding was the weakest blue-chip stock, slipping 1.2 per cent to close at S$3.34.

Regional equity markets also posted gains, reinforcing the upbeat sentiment. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index rose 0.4 per cent, Japan’s Nikkei 225 added 0.3 per cent, South Korea’s Kospi Composite advanced 0.8 per cent, and Malaysia’s FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI increased 0.2 per cent.

Commenting on market conditions, Stephen Innes, managing partner at SPI Asset Management, noted that investors are increasingly filtering out political noise from Washington. He said markets are warming to an environment of modest synchronised growth, contained inflation and a more accommodative US Federal Reserve, even as concerns around fiscal discipline and central bank independence remain in focus.

Investing Updates: Trust Bank launches retail trading platform for US stocks and ETFs, offering in-app fractional investing

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/trust-bank-launches-retail-trading-platform-us-stocks-and-etfs-offering-app-fractional-investing

ChatGPT:

Trust Bank has launched its in-app retail trading platform, TrustInvest, marking its entry into Singapore’s highly competitive retail investment market. Developed in partnership with Saxo Singapore, the platform allows customers to trade more than 7,000 US-listed stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). The service was first announced in October 2025 and began admitting users from a waitlist in November.

Since then, about 10,000 customers have opened trading accounts. According to the bank, adoption has been broad-based rather than concentrated in a specific demographic, with both new and experienced investors using the platform. Notably, 45 per cent of customers who have traded so far have made use of fractional investing.

Fractional trading, which Trust Bank says is a first for a banking app in Singapore, allows investors to buy portions of a single share with a minimum investment of US$10. This lowers the barrier to entry for high-priced US stocks such as Tesla or Meta, which trade at several hundred US dollars per share.

Trust Bank said it will not charge platform, custody or settlement fees. Commission fees for all trades are waived until Jun 30, 2026. After that, trades will be charged a commission of 0.05 per cent, subject to a minimum fee of US$2.99 per trade.

Chief executive officer Dwaipayan Sadhu said the zero-fee approach is intended to help the bank build a more holistic banking relationship, with investing complementing its existing savings and lending products. Trust Bank believes its value proposition lies in combining the regulatory trust and security of a bank with the low fees and user-friendly experience typically associated with fintech platforms.

The platform currently focuses on US markets, reflecting strong local investor interest in US assets. Trust Bank plans to expand its offerings to include Singapore equities in future, although no timeline has been provided.

Investing Updates: About half of Singapore fund managers expect STI to rise 5-10% in 2026, potentially hitting fresh records

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/about-half-singapore-fund-managers-expect-sti-rise-5-10-2026-potentially-hitting-fresh-records

ChatGPT:

About half of Singapore-based fund managers remain optimistic on local equities in 2026, with 52 per cent of respondents in an Investment Management Association of Singapore (Imas) survey expecting the Straits Times Index (STI) to rise by 5 to 10 per cent by year-end. Based on the STI’s level of around 4,500 when the survey was conducted, this implies a potential climb to between 4,800 and 5,020, which could see the benchmark reach fresh record highs. Nearly 90 per cent of respondents expect the STI to either strengthen or remain stable in 2026.
The positive outlook is supported by resilient bank earnings, attractive dividend yields and government initiatives aimed at revitalising Singapore’s equity market. The STI had already delivered strong gains of 22.7 per cent in 2025 and touched an all-time high earlier in January 2026.

Singapore’s prospects are part of a broader bullish stance on Asian equities. In the survey, Japan and China were rated the top potential outperformers for 2026, while Singapore ranked joint third with Taiwan. Regionally, 72 per cent of fund managers expect the MSCI Asia ex-Japan Index to rise by 10 to 20 per cent.
The Imas survey, now in its 11th year, gathered views from C-suite professionals across 63 member firms overseeing more than US$35 trillion in global assets. Respondents identified three major forces shaping the industry over the next year: increased adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), the continued rise of alternative investments, and growing regulatory and operational costs.
AI emerged as a newly prominent theme, with more than half of managers already using it in core investment functions such as research and fund commentary. At the same time, regulatory scrutiny and compliance costs are rising, while margin pressure from passive investment strategies remains a key concern. On the macro front, most respondents expect monetary easing in 2026, with many anticipating significant US Federal Reserve rate cuts, even as worries grow over the sustainability of recent market performance and central bank independence.

Investing Updates: Singapore a ‘safe harbour’ amid global volatility with Singdollar set to gain: Julius Baer

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/singapore-safe-harbour-amid-global-volatility-singdollar-set-gain-julius-baer

ChatGPT:

Julius Baer’s 2026 market outlook positions Singapore as a “safe harbour” amid heightened global volatility, with expectations that the Singapore dollar and local equities will perform well. The Swiss private bank forecasts the Singdollar to appreciate and projects Singapore corporate earnings growth of about 8 per cent in 2026. Combined with Straits Times Index dividend yields of around 5 per cent, this could translate into total returns of roughly 10 per cent in Singapore dollar terms.

The bank highlighted South-east Asia as an area of opportunity, particularly Vietnam, which is benefiting from the “China plus one” manufacturing strategy and ongoing infrastructure development. Julius Baer said its positive outlook is largely unchanged despite uncertainty stemming from renewed tariff threats by the Trump administration, noting that markets have so far shown limited reaction. While geopolitical developments may increase short-term volatility, they are not expected to derail longer-term market trajectories.

Julius Baer urged investors to move away from a traditional buy-and-hold strategy towards more tactical and diversified approaches. While artificial intelligence remains an important growth driver, global policy divergence is creating broader opportunities across regions and sectors. The bank pointed to defensive sectors such as global healthcare and cyclical stocks in Europe as attractive diversification options. Healthcare, in particular, is seen as undervalued, trading at a significant discount to global equities while delivering stronger-than-expected earnings growth and increased merger and acquisition activity.

On currencies, the report expects the US dollar to weaken due to slower growth, lower interest rates, and persistent trade and debt imbalances. Safe-haven alternatives such as the Swiss franc and Singapore dollar are expected to benefit. Precious metals, supported by central bank buying, remain attractive but volatile, prompting recommendations for tactical hedging and buying on price weakness. Overall, Julius Baer emphasised active rebalancing and global diversification to navigate a more uncertain investment landscape.

Investing Updates: Government close to finalising low-cost retirement investment scheme details: Tan See Leng

Source:

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/government-close-to-finalising-low-cost-retirement-investment-scheme-details-tan-see-leng

ChatGPT:

The Singapore Government is close to finalising details of the CPF Lifetime Retirement Investment Scheme (LRIS), a low-cost and simple retirement investment option first announced in 2016. Manpower Minister Tan See Leng told Parliament on Jan 14, 2026, that the Ministry of Manpower is in the “final stages” of studying the scheme, with updates to be provided once it is ready.

The LRIS is intended as an alternative to the existing CPF Investment Scheme (CPFIS), targeted at CPF members who wish to invest for retirement but lack the expertise, time, or confidence to actively manage their investments. It aims to balance risk and return while safeguarding retirement adequacy. Dr Tan was responding to queries from MPs who raised concerns that the prolonged delay may deprive members of opportunities to earn higher expected returns through market exposure.

Dr Tan stressed that the Government’s priority remains protecting retirement adequacy, noting that market timing and individual investment horizons matter. Investors who are forced to liquidate investments during downturns near retirement may suffer losses if they lack sufficient time to ride out market volatility. Hence, any LRIS product must be carefully designed.

The scheme is expected to adopt a “glide path” investment strategy, where younger members hold a higher proportion of equities for growth, gradually shifting towards bonds as they approach retirement to reduce risk. The product will likely include diversified global equities and bonds rather than being fully focused on Singapore equities.

Dr Tan also noted that CPF members who want higher returns already have access to low-cost CPFIS funds, which have delivered strong recent performance. Members may alternatively keep savings in CPF accounts to earn risk-free interest. While Dr Tan declined to commit to a specific 2026 launch timeline, he confirmed that the CPF Board is reviewing past recommendations, taking into account how markets have evolved since 2016.

Comments:

Interesting development.

Wonder how it can fit to many DIY investors' portfolio like me.

Food Updates: Min jiang kueh showdown: Munchi Pancakes vs Ottie Pancakes

Source:

https://sethlui.com/min-jiang-kueh-showdown-singapore/

ChatGPT:

This article compares two popular min jiang kueh brands in Singapore—Munchi Pancakes and the newer Ottie Pancakes—in a head-to-head taste test. The author begins with a nostalgic reflection on traditional min jiang kueh before tracing the rise of Munchi Pancakes, which started as a small Yishun coffee shop stall selling classic flavours. Over the years, it expanded its offerings to include charcoal and green tea skins, premium fillings, and now operates over 35 outlets islandwide. Munchi is also Halal-certified.

Ottie Pancakes, launched in late 2024, has rapidly grown to 16 outlets and bears a striking resemblance to Munchi Pancakes in branding and packaging, though the two are not related. A key difference is that Ottie is not Halal-certified. Both brands offer similar pricing, identical skin options, and comparable product ranges, though Munchi has more flavour varieties while Ottie currently runs a Buy-5-Get-1-Free promotion.

In taste tests across several flavours—black sesame, peanut, coconut, strawberry cheese, and red bean—the results were mixed but leaned in Munchi’s favour. Munchi’s black sesame filling stood out for being thicker, moister, and more flavourful, while Ottie’s pancake texture was marginally fluffier. Peanut versions were evenly matched, though Ottie’s green tea skin was slightly dry. Coconut and red bean fillings from both brands were nearly identical in taste and texture. For strawberry cheese, Munchi delivered a stronger cheese flavour, while Ottie’s leaned more towards strawberry notes.

Overall, the verdict favoured Munchi Pancakes as the stronger contender, with more consistent results across flavours. Ottie Pancakes showed promise but lost points due to a few underwhelming items. The showdown ultimately highlights how close the competition is, with personal taste playing a major role in preference.

Comments:

I do buy Munchi Pancakes occasionally for family. Ain't too bad.

Never see any Ottie Pancakes near my area.

Entertainment Updates: S’pore Ranked 2nd Richest Country, But Drops To 8th After Factoring In No. Of Hours Worked

Source:

https://www.8days.sg/entertainment/local/singapore-world-richest-country-ranking-drops-852356

ChatGPT:

Singapore was ranked the second-richest country in the world in 2025, buoyed by strong economic performance and high average incomes, but the picture looks less rosy once working hours are taken into account. According to data highlighted by The Economist, Singapore drops sharply from second to eighth place when local prices and the number of hours worked are factored into the ranking.

On paper, 2025 was a solid year for Singapore. GDP expanded by a healthy 4.8 per cent despite global headwinds such as US tariffs, layoffs, and geopolitical tensions. The country’s high ranking was largely driven by average annual earnings of about US$90,700 (S$116,485), placing it among the wealthiest nations by income per person.

However, the adjustment for working hours reveals a different reality. Data from the International Labour Organization shows that Singaporeans worked an average of 44.6 hours per week, significantly more than workers in many other advanced economies. When income is assessed relative to time spent working and local costs of living, Singapore’s relative prosperity declines.

In contrast, Norway rose from third place to first after these adjustments. Norwegians work an average of just 34 hours per week, yet still enjoy high incomes and strong purchasing power, allowing for more leisure time. At the other extreme, Bhutan recorded the longest average working hours at 54.5 hours per week, despite often being described as the “happiest country in the world”.

The Economist ranked 178 countries using three measures: GDP per person at market exchange rates, income adjusted for purchasing power, and income adjusted further for local prices and hours worked. The analysis highlights how differences in cost of living and labour intensity can significantly alter perceptions of wealth.

The findings sparked debate online, with some Singaporeans lamenting long working hours, while others pointed to countries like Norway as examples of better work-life balance. The contrast raises a broader question: is Singapore truly rich, or simply productive at the cost of time and energy?

Comments:

Interesting data.

Agree with it.

LifeStyle Updates: More BTO Flats Are Coming In 2026 And Why This Could Change The HDB Market

Source:

https://stackedhomes.com/19600-bto-flats-2026-launch-dates-shorter-wait-times/#sh.idtcc1

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The Singapore government may significantly increase the supply of Build-To-Order (BTO) flats in 2026, potentially launching more than 15,600 units if demand for public housing remains strong, according to Minister for National Development Chee Hong Tat. This comes as HDB plans to roll out about 19,600 BTO flats in 2025 across three sales exercises in February, June and October, covering towns such as Ang Mo Kio, Bukit Merah, Sembawang, Toa Payoh, Tampines, Woodlands and Yishun. Notably, around 4,000 flats—about one-fifth of the 2026 supply—will have waiting times of under three years.

The expanded pipeline builds on the government’s earlier commitment to launch 55,000 BTO flats between 2025 and 2027. With nearly 19,600 units planned for 2025 and 19,723 launched in 2024, the initial expectation for 2027 was about 15,677 units. However, the minister’s latest remarks suggest the government is considering maintaining a higher launch level next year, aligning with recent years’ supply.

Property experts believe this increase could further moderate HDB resale prices. ERA Singapore’s Eugene Lim notes that resale prices already showed strong moderation in late 2025, with almost zero growth in the final three months and a full-year increase of just 2.9%, compared with 9.7% growth in 2024.

Market conditions are also shifting as more flats reach their minimum occupation period (MOP). About 13,840 flats are expected to become eligible for resale in 2026—more than double the number in 2025—adding further supply. Together, higher BTO launches and more MOP flats could divert demand away from the resale market, giving buyers more options.

HDB’s completion of nearly 19,600 flats last year, including the final projects in Bidadari, underscores how sustained supply and long-term planning can reshape both affordability and market dynamics in Singapore’s public housing sector.

Comments:

Good news for home buyers.

Property Updates: Why The Singapore Property Market Will Be Different In 2026 — And It’s Not Just About Prices

Source:

https://stackedhomes.com/2026-singapore-private-residential-market-outlook/#sh.2u1ou1

ChatGPT:

Singapore’s private residential property market in 2026 is expected to look markedly different from the frenzied post-pandemic years, not because of falling prices, but due to a return to greater balance and normalcy. After sharp price increases and buyer anxiety in 2022–2024, the market is shifting toward calmer conditions, giving buyers more breathing room.

One major change is the pivot in new launches away from the Core Central Region (CCR) and back to the heartlands. While around 23 per cent of launches in 2025 were in the CCR, an estimated 65 per cent of 2026 launches will be in the Outside Central Region (OCR), including areas such as Tengah, Tampines and Bayshore. This matters not just for affordability, but also for liveability. OCR projects are more likely to offer family-sized three-bedroom units within the upgrader “sweet spot” of roughly $1.8 million to $2 million, something that was harder to find in CCR-heavy years.

Second, buyers face less urgency to purchase immediately. Private home completions are expected to rise from about 5,200 units in 2025 to around 7,000 units in 2026, as projects launched during the post-Covid boom reach completion. At the same time, new launches and overall new supply are set to fall. This combination eases supply pressure, encourages a more patient “wait-and-negotiate” mindset, and should help moderate price growth. It may also soften the rental market as more owners move into completed homes.

Third, the return of more executive condominium (EC) launches provides an important affordability bridge for buyers priced out of private homes. At least five ECs are expected in 2026, compared with just two in 2025, and demand is likely to be strong.

Finally, while interest rates have fallen to three-year lows, financing rules remain strict due to TDSR floor rates. Overall, 2026 points to a steadier, more rational market — a welcome change after years of excess excitement.

Comments:

Interesting insights.

Data Updates: Singapore's economy grows 5.7% in Q4 2025, beating forecasts

Source:

https://www.asiaone.com/singapore/singapores-economy-grows-57-q4-2025-beating-forecasts

ChatGPT:

Singapore’s economy expanded by a robust 5.7 per cent year-on-year in the fourth quarter of 2025, beating market expectations and marking its fastest quarterly growth for the year, according to advance estimates released by the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) on Jan 2. This was also stronger than the 5.0 per cent growth recorded in the same period a year earlier. For the full year, gross domestic product grew by 4.8 per cent, exceeding both the 4.4 per cent expansion in 2024 and the official forecast of “around 4 per cent” that had been upgraded in November.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong had earlier disclosed the full-year growth figure in his New Year’s Day message, describing the performance as “stronger-than-expected growth”. However, he cautioned that maintaining such momentum would be difficult, citing persistent global challenges including fractured trade relations and geopolitical tensions that are likely to remain long-term features of the global landscape.

Looking ahead, MTI expects Singapore’s economy to grow between one and three per cent in 2026. The ministry warned that slowing growth in major economies could moderate export demand across Southeast Asia, posing headwinds for trade-dependent economies like Singapore.

The manufacturing sector was a key driver of the strong fourth-quarter performance, surging 15 per cent year-on-year, a sharp acceleration from the 4.9 per cent growth recorded in the previous quarter. This was largely driven by significant output expansions in the biomedical manufacturing and electronics clusters. Pharmaceutical production underpinned biomedical growth, while electronics benefited from sustained global demand for AI-related semiconductors, servers and related equipment.

The construction sector also expanded, growing 4.2 per cent year-on-year in the fourth quarter, though this represented a moderation from the 5.1 per cent growth seen previously. Meanwhile, all services-producing sectors recorded growth, with wholesale trade supported by strong sales of electronic components, telecommunications equipment and computer hardware amid the ongoing artificial intelligence boom.

Comments:

Huat Huat Singapore!

Happy New Year 2026!

Source:

https://www.marinabaycountdown.gov.sg/about/one-countdown-2026/

Food Updates: Restaurant offers buffet for S$7, was forced to change terms after ‘overwhelming response’ from diners

Source:

https://theindependent.sg/restaurant-offers-buffet-for-s7-was-forced-to-change-terms-after-overwhelming-response-from-diners/

ChatGPT:

A restaurant on Cavan Road, Dragon’s Bite by Our Dining Place, recently found itself overwhelmed after launching an ultra-affordable S$7 nett unlimited lunch buffet, prompting it to revise its dining terms due to unexpectedly high demand. Announced on Instagram on Dec 9, the buffet was offered daily from Tuesday to Sunday, including weekends and public holidays, and quickly attracted attention for its unusually low price point. The restaurant, which seats about 70 diners, promoted the buffet as an affordable and satisfying dining option.

Interest surged further after the deal was highlighted on Dec 20 by the popular Instagram account @singaporebeauty, which labelled it a “value for money buffet” and showcased a wide variety of dishes. The video featured items such as sambal sotong, stir-fried pork collar, seafood tofu, pepper chicken soup, bitter gourd omelette, braised chicken feet, Hokkien mee, and desserts like cake and fruit. Many commenters expressed eagerness to try the buffet, fuelling even larger crowds.

However, the overwhelming response soon created operational challenges. On Dec 22, the restaurant issued an apology and announced updated terms and conditions. It cited full occupancy that prevented some diners with reservations from being seated and admitted it had underestimated demand, particularly for popular items like shell prawns. As a result, prawns were limited to five pieces per diner until stocks ran out.

To manage crowds better, Dragon’s Bite scrapped reservations in favour of walk-ins only, imposed a 45-minute dining limit, required table-sharing, and restricted diners to one plate and one bowl each, moving away from a traditional buffet format. The restaurant also stated it reserves the right to change dishes and portion sizes. Despite the changes, the S$7 buffet remains attractive, and the eatery now posts its daily menu online, though it is closed on Mondays and Dec 30.

My Comments:

Singaporeans are great "deal breakers" 😂

Food Updates: Battle of the expensive cai fans: 666 Cai Fan Porridge ($21) vs Cafe&Meal MUJI ($20.80)

Source:

https://sethlui.com/expensive-cai-fan-battle-singapore/

ChatGPT:

As food prices rise across Singapore, even humble cai fan can deliver sticker shock. Curious about premium versions of this everyday meal, the writer deliberately spends over S$20 at two places: Cafe&Meal MUJI and 666 Cai Fan • Porridge, to see which justifies the splurge.

Cafe&Meal MUJI, available at only three outlets islandwide, offers a sit-down, Japanese-style experience focused on simple, healthy food. The writer orders the 3 Deli Set (S$20.80), discounted to S$18.80 due to a weekday promotion. The set includes one hot deli, two cold delis, a side, soup, and a choice of carbs. Portions are modest, but execution stands out. Highlights include the Golden Sesame Crusted Salmon, which is tender and moist, though lacking the promised hojicha aroma. The butternut mash with pulled pork and kale impresses with layered textures and flavours, resembling an elevated Japanese potato salad. The thick omelette is soft yet textural, enhanced by an umami-rich mushroom sauce. The 16-grain rice and hijiki seaweed add depth, while the carrot cumin soup proves rich and comforting, outperforming standard miso.

In contrast, 666 Cai Fan • Porridge, a newer stall in Toa Payoh, looks like a typical cai fan stall but clearly labels premium items to avoid price disputes. A loaded plate costs S$21, featuring salmon, braised beef, lamb rendang, chilli prawns, and vegetables. While the braised beef and lamb rendang are tender and flavourful, portions are small. The fried salmon is large but dry, feeling overpriced. The tau kwa with minced pork and chilli prawns are more satisfying value-wise.

Overall, despite similar prices, the writer feels Cafe&Meal MUJI delivers better consistency, refinement, and overall quality, making its high price easier to justify than the upscale kopitiam-style cai fan.

My Comments:

Interesting comparisons!

Will consider trying them in future.

Investing Updates: Commentary: Singapore’s stock market is waking up and the hard part starts now

Source:

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/commentary/singapore-stock-market-sgx-review-group-5709421

ChatGPT:

Singapore’s long-sleepy stock market has shown clear signs of revival in 2025, with the Straits Times Index reaching multiple record highs. The rally has been driven mainly by banks and blue-chip stocks, while mid-cap companies have also begun to attract stronger interest. However, the key question is whether this momentum represents a sustainable resurgence or merely a short-term rebound.

A major boost to sentiment has come from the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s S$5 billion Equity Market Development Programme (EQDP), designed to inject liquidity into small and mid-cap stocks. Nearly S$4 billion has already been allocated to fund managers, and the launch of the iEdge Singapore Next 50 Index has provided greater visibility to mid-cap companies. Increased confidence has also translated into a strong IPO year: Singapore led Southeast Asia in IPO proceeds, raising about US$1.6 billion across nine deals, largely driven by two major REIT listings.

Despite these positives, liquidity remains the critical challenge. Sustained trading volume is essential to attract IPOs and support higher valuations. Market turnover has recently declined, raising concerns that EQDP funds alone may be insufficient. Compared with regional peers such as Malaysia, Thailand and Australia, Singapore still lacks a steady flow of domestic institutional funds.

The commentary argues that more initiatives are needed. These include expanding broker custodial services, encouraging margin financing, aligning practices with global norms, and attracting Singapore-based companies listed overseas to return home. The creation of mid-cap ETFs could also provide stable investment vehicles, though this depends on sufficient underlying liquidity.

Ultimately, while Singapore’s market has revived, revival is not reinvention. The next phase requires a multi-pronged strategy to deepen liquidity, diversify sectors, and convince both institutional and retail investors that a rejuvenated SGX offers long-term value.

Investing Updates: Has Singapore’s stablecoin surge peaked, or is 2026 just the start?

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/wealth/crypto-alternative-assets/has-singapores-stablecoin-surge-peaked-or-2026-just-start

ChatGPT:

Stablecoins surged globally in 2025, and Singapore has emerged as a leading hub rather than a late adopter. Singapore dollar-backed stablecoin XSGD grew to about S$17 million in market capitalisation by December, up from S$10 million a year earlier. While modest in absolute terms, this growth reflects strong institutional confidence driven by regulatory clarity rather than retail speculation.

A key advantage is Singapore’s early regulatory groundwork. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) finalised its Single-Currency Stablecoin (SCS) framework in 2023, ahead of similar moves in the US such as the Genius Act. This proactive stance has positioned Singapore as a global benchmark for crypto regulation, earning top ranking for regulatory clarity in Bybit’s 2025 World Crypto Rankings. Industry leaders from Coinbase, Crypto.com and Ryder credit MAS for evolving regulation without chasing hype, attracting serious builders and institutional players.

Globally, stablecoins are a US$300 billion market today and could reach US$4 trillion by 2030 in a bullish scenario. Singapore aims not to dominate issuance, but to become Asia’s most trusted institutional hub for compliant stablecoins. Initiatives such as Project Orchid and the newly announced BLOOM framework signal a shift from experimentation toward real-world settlement using tokenised bank liabilities and regulated stablecoins. Industry leaders expect 2026 to see broader commercial deployment across banks, asset managers and payment systems.

However, challenges remain. Over 98% of global stablecoin value is still US dollar-denominated, creating concentration risk and dependence on US monetary policy. Developing liquid, trusted local-currency alternatives like XSGD will take time. Fragmentation is another concern, with users potentially holding multiple stablecoins; this may be solved through “invisible” software that abstracts complexity.

Looking ahead, growth is likely to come from institutional use cases such as tokenised payables, supply-chain finance and cross-border settlement. The ultimate sign of success in 2026 will be when users benefit from faster, cheaper transactions—without even realising they are using stablecoins at all.

Holiday Updates: Merry Christmas 2025!

Source:

https://secretsingapore.co/christmas-on-a-great-street-orchard-road-singapore-returns-for-2025-key-details/

LifeStyle Updates: Singapore’s core, headline inflation hold steady at 1.2% in November

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/singapores-core-headline-inflation-hold-steady-1-2-november

ChatGPT:

Singapore’s core and headline inflation remained unchanged at 1.2% year on year in November, according to the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI). Both readings came in slightly below market expectations of 1.3%, reinforcing signs that inflation pressures remain contained.

Core inflation, which excludes accommodation and private transport, was steady as higher services inflation was offset by weaker retail and other goods prices, alongside a sharper fall in electricity and gas costs. On a month-on-month basis, core prices edged down 0.1%, while the all-items consumer price index rose 0.2%.

Headline inflation also held at 1.2%, reflecting unchanged accommodation and core inflation. Accommodation costs continued to rise modestly at 0.3%, in line with stable rental growth. Food inflation was unchanged at 1.2%, as prices for both cooked and non-cooked food rose at the same pace as in October.

Across CPI categories, price movements were mixed. Private transport inflation eased to 3.5%, down from 3.8%, due to a smaller increase in car prices. Retail and other goods inflation dipped to 0.3% as clothing, footwear and personal care appliance prices fell. Electricity and gas prices declined more sharply by 4.1%, reflecting lower electricity costs.

The main upward pressure came from services inflation, which rose to 1.9% from 1.8% in October, driven by higher costs for point-to-point transport services and health insurance.

MAS and MTI maintained their full-year 2025 forecasts, projecting core inflation at 0.5% and headline inflation at 0.5% to 1%. Forecasts for 2026 were also unchanged at 0.5% to 1.5% for both measures. Authorities highlighted ongoing uncertainties, noting that while imported cost pressures are easing, supply shocks or weaker global demand could alter the inflation outlook.

Travel Updates: Cross-border taxis more attractive with flexible drop-offs but concerns remain on scheme’s viability

Source:

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/cross-border-taxis-more-attractive-with-flexible-drop-offs-but-concerns-remain-on-schemes-viability

ChatGPT:

Singapore and Malaysia’s decision on Dec 5, 2025, to allow cross-border taxis to drop off passengers anywhere in the destination country—and to raise taxi quotas from 200 to 500 per side—has sparked optimism but also lingering concerns about the scheme’s long-term viability. Drivers and passengers on both sides welcomed the added convenience, hoping it will shift demand away from illegal operators who have long provided door-to-door services that licensed taxis were not allowed to offer.

Previously, taxis could only perform flexible drop-offs if they were registered in the destination country. Otherwise, passengers were limited to Larkin Sentral in Johor Bahru or Ban San Street Terminal in Singapore, forcing many travellers to take a second trip. Some Singaporeans said the new flexibility makes them more inclined to consider cross-border taxis when trains are unavailable. Malaysians echoed similar sentiments, saying the update removes hassle and confusion.

Licensed drivers, however, stressed that the real appeal has always been door-to-door service—a feature illegal operators once provided and legal taxis could not. Many hope the new rules will finally allow them to compete fairly and earn more. Older and mobility-impaired passengers also said the move would greatly ease their journeys.

Still, observers and cabbies flagged issues: worsening Causeway congestion, limited parking at terminals, unpredictable demand, and long waits that already make the route unattractive for some drivers. Transport economists noted that while the rule changes improve convenience, fixed pricing and current regulations still constrain the scheme. They warned of supply-demand imbalances, competition concerns between Singapore- and Malaysia-registered taxis, and the need for deeper liberalisation—possibly including true door-to-door service.

Experts added that a better-functioning cross-border taxi ecosystem could deliver wider benefits, such as making Singapore’s airports more accessible for Johor residents, ultimately strengthening cross-border economic ties.

Opinion:

Pls make this service work people!

I need it! 😄

Entertainment Updates: Are Singaporean Chinese Men “Least Attractive”? Viral Chinese Sketches Stir Unnecessary Debate

Source:

https://www.8days.sg/entertainment/asian/singaporean-chinese-men-least-attractive-851141

ChatGPT:

A set of colourful sketches comparing the “typical” appearances of men from different regions of China unexpectedly triggered a wave of online debate involving Singaporeans — even though the drawings had nothing to do with Singapore. The illustrations, which depict men from China’s Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, Southeast and Xinjiang, went viral on social media for their exaggerated differences. The Southeast Chinese man was drawn with a flatter nose and a more rounded, protruding jawline, while the others were given sharper features resembling C-drama heartthrobs.

When the South China Morning Post (SCMP) highlighted the sketches, it posed a provocative question: Are Singaporean Chinese men the “least attractive”? The leap occurred because many early Chinese immigrants in Singapore historically came from China’s Southeast region. Singaporeans reacted almost instantly, flooding the comment section to reject the premise and roast the comparison.

One netizen questioned how Singapore was dragged into the conversation at all, noting that the sketches represent Chinese men from China, not Singapore’s diverse, multicultural population. Others responded with humour, taking playful jabs — including one referencing Hong Kong’s recent football loss to Singapore. Some Hong Kong commenters even defended Singaporean men, saying they encountered more attractive men in Singapore than back home, and reminding critics that both places share similar ancestral roots.

Still, opinions varied. While many dismissed the comparison as unnecessary and silly, a few commenters leaned into old stereotypes. One revived the familiar “prawn” insult — that Singaporean men have good bodies but less attractive faces.

Ultimately, reactions across both regions show the debate is less about objective looks and more about online culture, humour, and how easily viral content sparks cross-border chatter over subjective beauty standards.

Technology Updates: Apple Launches Tap to Pay on iPhone in Singapore

Source:

https://www.macrumors.com/2025/12/02/apple-launches-tap-to-pay-iphone-singapore/

ChatGPT:

Apple has officially launched Tap to Pay on iPhone in Singapore, enabling individuals, small businesses, and large merchants to accept contactless payments directly on an iPhone without needing additional hardware. The feature, first introduced in the United States in February 2022, transforms compatible iPhones into secure payment terminals, supporting Apple Pay, contactless credit and debit cards, and digital wallets.

All Tap to Pay transactions are encrypted, and Apple does not collect information about purchases or buyers, maintaining user privacy. The system uses the iPhone’s built-in NFC technology to authenticate contactless payments and also supports PIN entry, with accessibility features included to accommodate different user needs.

At launch, Tap to Pay in Singapore supports several major payment platforms and providers, including Adyen, Fiuu, HitPay, Revolut, Stripe, and Zoho. Apple also announced that Grab will integrate Tap to Pay on iPhone early next year, expanding its reach into one of Singapore’s most widely used payment ecosystems.

To use Tap to Pay on iPhone, merchants simply open a participating app, key in the transaction details, and present their iPhone to the customer, who then completes the payment using Apple Pay or any other supported contactless method. The feature works on iPhone XS or newer, making it broadly accessible to most modern iPhone users in Singapore.

With this rollout, Singapore becomes one of the markets where Tap to Pay on iPhone is available, joining a growing list of 50 countries and regions worldwide. Apple continues to maintain an updated list of supported countries on its website as the service expands globally.