Property Updates: From $1.18 Million To $1.728 Million: How Record-Breaking HDB Resale Prices Have Changed In The Last Decade

Source:

https://dollarsandsense.sg/how-hdb-resale-prices-have-changed-in-the-last-decade/

ChatGPT:

Singapore’s HDB resale market has seen dramatic price growth over the past decade, with record-breaking transactions rising across all flat types and million-dollar deals becoming increasingly common. In April 2026, a new ეროვნული high of $1.728 million was set for a 5-room flat at City Vue @ Henderson, highlighting how far prices have climbed since 2017.

Executive flats—such as maisonettes and jumbo units—remain among the largest HDB homes, though no new ones have been built since the early 2000s. Their record prices rose about 38%, from $1.16 million in 2017 to a peak of $1.6 million in 2025, with recent top sales concentrated in Bishan and Bukit Timah.

5-room flats recorded even stronger growth, with prices jumping over 46% from $1.18 million in 2017 to $1.728 million in 2026. High-floor units in central or mature estates, including DBSS developments and SERS replacement flats, dominate these records due to location, views, and modern design.

For 4-room flats, every record transaction from 2017 to 2026 occurred at Pinnacle@Duxton. Prices surged more than 52%, from just under $1 million in 2017 to over $1.5 million in recent years. Despite smaller sizes, their prime location and panoramic views continue to command premium prices.

Meanwhile, 3-room flats saw a 35% increase, from $688,000 in 2017 to $930,000 in 2025. Newer flats in estates like Bidadari are now overtaking older units in places like Tiong Bahru, reflecting buyer preference for newer leases.

Overall, the data shows a clear trend: newer flats, central locations, and high-floor units are driving record prices, with further increases likely.

Lifestyle Updates: How heat-proof is your home? Nearly half of over 400 HDB flats are warmer than outdoors: Study

Source:

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/environment/how-heat-proof-is-your-home-nearly-half-of-over-400-hdb-flats-are-warmer-than-outdoors-study

ChatGPT:

A study led by the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) found that many Singapore homes may not effectively shield residents from heat. Based on visits to 416 HDB flats across 10 neighbourhoods over nine months, nearly half were warmer indoors than outdoors, largely due to poor airflow. About one-third of homes were up to 2°C hotter than nearby void decks, while around 10% were up to 5°C warmer. In extreme cases, indoor heat index readings exceeded outdoor levels by over 8°C.

The research highlighted that almost 60% of households had weaker airflow than outside, often caused by clutter, closed windows, and layouts that block ventilation. Heat-retaining materials like concrete and heat-emitting appliances further worsen indoor conditions. Vulnerable groups—such as seniors, lower-income households, and those in smaller or rental flats—are disproportionately affected, yet often lack access to air-conditioning.

Despite discomfort, many residents view heat as a normal part of life rather than a problem requiring action. This “normalisation” can be risky, as prolonged exposure affects sleep, health, and productivity. Seniors, in particular, may be less aware of heat stress due to age-related changes in temperature regulation.

Common coping methods include electric fans (used by 76% of respondents), opening windows, and adjusting clothing. While over half use air-conditioning at night, only 14% rely on it during the day, mainly due to cost concerns. Notably, about 60% of households had not used government climate vouchers for energy-efficient appliances, often because subsidies were insufficient for costly items like air-conditioners.

Researchers recommend improving ventilation by reducing clutter, enhancing cross-breezes, and using solar-control window films. They are also developing cooling toolkits and design guides, while calling for better housing design, retrofits, and stronger financial support to help vulnerable households adapt to rising temperatures.

Food Updates: Viral banana cake shop Bake It Babe arrives in Singapore from Bangkok!

Source:

https://thehoneycombers.com/singapore/bake-it-babe-singapore/

ChatGPT:

Bake It Babe, a viral banana cake brand from Bangkok, has officially launched in Singapore, riding on strong regional demand for trendy dessert concepts. The brand gained popularity after a TikTok by Tuk Little Monster went viral, amassing over 1.7 million views and helping the business sell more than 250,000 boxes despite limited production.

Originally a home-based venture, Bake It Babe was founded after its creator, Tarn, set out to recreate a memorable banana cake she once tasted. The brand later expanded to a physical store in Chonburi before making its international debut in Singapore. Its success is driven by a commitment to small-batch production, ensuring consistent quality and freshness. Bananas are carefully selected and ripened to optimal sweetness, while oil is used instead of butter to produce a softer, moister texture.

In Singapore, Bake It Babe currently offers its signature banana cake priced at $19.80. Due to high demand, the brand operates on a pre-order system rather than walk-ins. Customers must place orders online at least two days in advance and select a collection time, with delivery services expected in the future. The cakes are not halal-certified, although they do not contain pork or lard.

Looking ahead, Bake It Babe plans to expand its menu beyond its signature item, with potential new flavours and Singapore-exclusive offerings. There are also discussions about opening additional outlets locally, signalling continued growth and strong consumer interest in the brand.

Travel Updates: Grab gets first Singapore-Johor ride-hail licence as ‘anywhere’ drop-off rules kick in May 4

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/transport-logistics/grab-gets-first-singapore-johor-ride-hail-licence-anywhere-drop-rules-kick-may-4

ChatGPT:

Grab has secured the first licence to operate cross-border ride-hailing between Singapore and Malaysia, marking a major shift in regional transport. Issued by the Land Transport Authority, the three-year licence allows passengers to book cross-border taxi rides directly through Grab’s platform.

Starting May 4 under an enhanced Cross-Border Taxi Scheme, commuters can enjoy greater flexibility and convenience. Licensed taxis can drop passengers off anywhere in Singapore and across key Johor areas, including Johor Bahru, Iskandar Puteri, Forest City, Kulai and Senai. Pickups within a taxi’s home country remain unrestricted.

Grab’s new “Cross-Border SG-JB (beta)” service enables users to pre-book door-to-door rides between 12 hours and seven days in advance. The initiative integrates ride-hailing into cross-border transport, replacing older restrictions that limited taxis to fixed terminals.

The framework is also designed to protect drivers. Authorities are introducing stricter enforcement measures, such as mandatory identification markings, ERP 2.0 units for Malaysian taxis, and a 10-year vehicle age limit to curb illegal operators. Street-hailing for foreign taxis will be banned; instead, drivers must rely on app-based bookings and operate from designated pickup hubs.

Fleet capacity will expand from 200 to 300 taxis per country initially, with a long-term target of 500, focusing on larger six-seater vehicles. Fares are structured to ensure driver sustainability, starting from about S$80 per trip, while improving commuter convenience and cross-border connectivity.

Rewards Updates: The ShopperLink App Is Celebrating Its 5th Birthday, Play Games To Redeem Goodies & Win Prizes

Source:

https://thesmartlocal.com/read/shopperlink-5th-birthday/

ChatGPT:

The ShopperLink app is marking its 5th anniversary with a series of weekend celebrations across seven HDB malls from 9 to 24 May 2026. The events kick off at Canberra Plaza and culminate in a grand finale at Plantation Plaza in Tengah, with activities held at different malls each weekend.

The main highlight is a set of three free challenges—Birthday Bash Strike, Cake Smash, and Lucky 5 Timer—open to ShopperLink members who complete simple tasks like rating the app and following mall social pages. Participants who complete all three challenges can redeem a limited-edition ceramic plate. Top performers from each mall will advance to the finals, where they compete for a $200 supermarket voucher.

Another activity, the Guess The Cakes Challenge, invites shoppers to estimate the number of cake plushies on display for a chance to win a $100 gift bundle. Winners will be announced at the finale and on participating malls’ Facebook pages.

Families can also enjoy bouncy castles at selected locations for 50 reward points. Meanwhile, shoppers who spend at least $25 (with up to three receipts) can enter a lucky draw featuring prizes like a robot vacuum, USB fans, cakes, and retail vouchers.

From 4 to 31 May, members earn double reward points at participating malls, and existing users can redeem a multi-purpose organiser. New users who sign up at pop-up booths in community clubs will receive freebies, including a shoulder bag and items from brands like A&W and Jollibee.

Overall, the campaign blends games, rewards, and shopping perks to drive engagement and celebrate the app’s milestone.

Property Updates: Singapore Property Market 1Q2026: Latest Housing Stats, Condo Prices, Supply And Demand

Source:

https://stackedhomes.com/q1-2026-singapore-private-residential-analysis/#sh.1s0vjs

ChatGPT:

Singapore’s private property market in 1Q2026 showed continued price growth but emerging signs of moderation after a strong 2025. Overall private home prices rose 0.9% quarter-on-quarter, accelerating from 0.6% in the previous quarter, indicating resilience despite global geopolitical uncertainty. However, transaction activity weakened, with new home sales falling 31.5% to 2,013 units, while unsold inventory rose 6.8% to over 38,000 units, pointing to increasing supply and competition.

Across regions, the Outside Central Region (OCR) led price growth with a 2.2% increase, driven by upgrader demand and relative affordability. The Rest of Central Region (RCR) saw moderate gains of 0.8%, while the Core Central Region (CCR) rebounded 0.6% after a previous decline, supported by more accessible pricing and layouts attracting local buyers. Landed property prices, however, dipped 0.4%.

Developers launched fewer new units (1,844) compared to the previous quarter, but sales still exceeded launches, suggesting pricing remains supported by high land and construction costs. Executive Condominiums (ECs) stood out as a strong segment, with 1,168 units sold out of 1,320 launched, as buyers favoured larger, more affordable alternatives to private condos.

In the resale market, transactions declined 8.6% to 3,225 units but remained stable within historical ranges, reflecting steady demand from buyers seeking immediate occupancy. Sub-sales were limited, indicating low speculative activity.

The rental market showed tentative stabilisation, with rents rising 0.3% after a prior decline, though vacancy rates edged up to 6.2%. Completed housing stock increased modestly, while vacant units also rose slightly.

Overall, while prices remain firm, the market is showing signs of normalisation. Rising supply, softer sales volumes, and higher vacancies suggest a potential shift towards a more balanced, price-sensitive environment in the coming quarters.

Finance Updates: New CPF life-cycle investment scheme could channel up to S$9 billion a year into Singapore stocks: Citi

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/new-cpf-life-cycle-investment-scheme-could-channel-s9-billion-year-singapore-stocks-citi

ChatGPT:

A new CPF life-cycle investment scheme, set to launch in 2028, could channel significant funds into Singapore’s stock market, potentially injecting S$6 billion to S$9 billion annually, according to Citi. Announced in Budget 2026, the scheme allows CPF members to invest their savings in diversified portfolios that include equities, offering the potential for higher returns compared to the current risk-free CPF interest rates.

The life-cycle approach automatically adjusts asset allocation over time using a “glide path” mechanism. Younger investors will have higher exposure to riskier assets like equities, while portfolios gradually shift դեպի safer instruments such as bonds as retirement nears. This structure simplifies investing and reduces the need for active decision-making.

Citi estimates that with CPF annual inflows of about S$58 billion, allocating just 10–15 per cent into equities could generate sustained liquidity for Singapore’s stock market. This would provide ongoing support even after the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s Equity Market Development Programme (EQDP)—a S$6.5 billion initiative launched in 2025—is fully deployed by 2027.

Currently, only about 3 per cent of CPF’s S$661 billion funds are invested in equities, far below the 10–48 per cent typical among Asia-Pacific pension funds. The new scheme aims to close this gap by addressing barriers such as high fees, complexity, and low investor familiarity. It will feature low-cost funds, simplified portfolios, and automatic rebalancing.

While participation is optional and carries investment risks, Citi believes members could achieve “superior returns” compared to CPF’s guaranteed rates (2.5–4 per cent), given that the Straits Times Index has historically delivered stronger long-term growth.

Overall, the scheme could boost both retirement outcomes and Singapore’s equity market liquidity.

Finance Updates: What’s behind the Singdollar’s strength amid the Iran war – and how long will it last?

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/whats-behind-singdollars-strength-amid-iran-war-and-how-long-will-it-last

ChatGPT:

The Singapore dollar (SGD) has strengthened during the Iran war, standing out among Asean currencies as a relative safe haven amid heightened geopolitical uncertainty. While many regional currencies weakened against the US dollar, the SGD held firm, supported by its reputation for stability and Singapore’s strong policy framework.

Analysts highlight that the SGD behaved like a “defensive currency” during the conflict’s initial shock phase (March 1 to April 8). It appreciated notably against regional peers, gaining around 3.4% versus the Philippine peso and 2.7% against the Thai baht, with smaller gains against the Indonesian rupiah, Malaysian ringgit and Vietnamese dong. This resilience reflects investor preference for lower-volatility currencies during periods of global stress.

A key factor underpinning the SGD’s strength is the credibility of Singapore’s exchange-rate-based monetary policy, managed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). The recent decision to slightly steepen the appreciation path of the Singapore dollar nominal effective exchange rate (S$NEER) has further anchored confidence. Safe-haven demand has also been reinforced by rising oil prices and geopolitical risks linked to the conflict.

Following the April 8 ceasefire announcement, currency dynamics began to shift. Some previously weaker currencies, such as the ringgit and baht, started recovering, signalling a move from broad risk aversion to a more selective rebound. However, others like the rupiah and peso remain under pressure.

A strong SGD brings mixed effects domestically. It helps curb imported inflation and boosts consumers’ purchasing power, but it can hurt export competitiveness and reduce the value of overseas earnings for Singapore-based firms.

Looking ahead, the SGD’s strength is likely to persist as long as geopolitical uncertainty remains and MAS policy stays supportive. However, analysts expect this trend to fade once conditions stabilise, with investors rotating back into higher-growth, trade-sensitive currencies.

Investing Updates: Singapore’s OCBC launches tokenized gold fund on Ethereum and Solana

Source:

https://cointelegraph.com/news/ocbc-tokenized-gold-fund-ethereum-solana

ChatGPT:

OCBC Bank has launched a tokenized physical gold fund, marking a significant step in bridging traditional finance with blockchain technology. The fund’s digital token, GOLDX, is issued on both Ethereum and Solana, allowing investors to gain exposure to gold through blockchain-based assets.

The initiative was developed in partnership with Lion Global Investors and digital asset exchange DigiFT. It is primarily targeted at institutional investors, hedge funds, and asset managers, though it also aims to attract high-net-worth individuals active in crypto and Web3 ecosystems. Investors can subscribe using either fiat currencies or stablecoins, with tokens delivered directly to their blockchain wallets.

GOLDX represents on-chain access to the LionGlobal Singapore Physical Gold Fund, which launched in December and held about $525 million in assets under management as of mid-April 2026. This structure allows investors to benefit from gold exposure while leveraging the flexibility, transparency, and accessibility of blockchain technology.

The launch comes amid rapid growth in tokenized real-world assets (RWAs), which have surpassed $29 billion in value on public blockchains—an increase of over 10% in the past month alone. OCBC sees this as a key opportunity to expand its digital asset strategy and integrate decentralized finance (DeFi) with traditional financial products.

This is not OCBC’s first move into tokenization; the bank previously introduced a tokenized equity-linked note in 2023. With total assets of around $526 billion as of end-2025, OCBC’s latest initiative signals growing confidence among major financial institutions in blockchain-based investment products and the broader digital asset ecosystem.

Investing Updates: Let’s combine the benefits of the broker custody model and the seamless experience of the CDP

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/lets-combine-benefits-broker-custody-model-and-seamless-experience-cdp

ChatGPT:

The article argues that Singapore’s stock market could be strengthened by combining the advantages of the broker custody model with the Central Depository (CDP) system, rather than favouring one over the other.

The CDP model remains popular among local retail investors because it is simple, cost-free, and gives shareholders direct ownership of their securities. This direct ownership makes corporate participation seamless—investors receive communications directly and can easily attend annual general meetings (AGMs) without intermediaries. Such ease of exercising shareholder rights is a key strength that should not be lost.

However, the broker custody model is increasingly used, especially by investors who trade overseas markets. It is also the dominant system globally. One major benefit is consolidation: investors can hold both local and foreign securities in a single account, making portfolio management more convenient. Brokers can also offer value-added services such as investment advice, fractional trading, and portfolio management. Because brokers have visibility over clients’ holdings, they can provide more tailored guidance—for example, advising on whether to participate in a REIT rights issue.

Despite these advantages, broker custody has drawbacks. Shareholders do not hold securities in their own name, which complicates participation in AGMs. Investors must arrange proxies through brokers, often with significant lead time, making the process less convenient and potentially discouraging engagement.

The article concludes that while both models have merit, the future lies in integrating their strengths. As regulators explore expanding broker custody usage, they should also incorporate the seamless shareholder experience offered by the CDP. A hybrid approach could enhance investor convenience, improve access to services, and ultimately help revitalise Singapore’s equity market.

Investing Updates: iEdge Next 50 Liquidity Weighted Index outperforms STI on tech strength

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/iedge-next-50-liquidity-weighted-index-outperforms-sti-tech-strength

ChatGPT:

The iEdge Singapore Next 50 Liquidity Weighted Index has outperformed the Straits Times Index (STI) in 2026, delivering a 9.7% year-to-date return versus the STI’s 8.9%. This index tracks the 50 largest Singapore-listed companies just below the STI but differs by weighting stocks based on trading liquidity rather than market capitalisation, reflecting where investor activity is most concentrated.

Liquidity has risen significantly, with average daily turnover reaching S$275 million through mid-April, up 43% from 2025. Valuations have also improved, as seen in the increase in median price-to-book ratios from 1.05 to 1.23. This suggests stronger investor demand and engagement with mid-cap stocks.

Technology has emerged as the key driver of performance. Four major tech-related constituents—Frencken, UMS, CSE Global, and iFast—make up nearly 20% of the index and have collectively delivered strong gains, averaging 43% returns since 2025. Their trading activity has also surged, with turnover increasing 2.5 times. Growth in these firms is linked to the global artificial intelligence-driven semiconductor cycle and rising demand for digital infrastructure.

While real estate investment trusts (REITs) remain the largest sector and provide stability through steady cash flows, the momentum has shifted toward technology and digital infrastructure. This reflects a broader trend where capital is flowing into sectors tied to data centres, automation, AI-enabled manufacturing, and digital services.

The index’s liquidity-weighted approach highlights stocks attracting sustained investor participation rather than simply large firms. Looking ahead, Singapore’s tech ecosystem is expected to remain supported, though growth will be more execution-driven and capital-intensive, favouring companies with scale, reliability, and strong cross-border capabilities.

Property Updates: HDB Resale Prices Just Fell For The First Time Since 2019 — Is This The Start Of A Bigger Shift?

Source:

https://stackedhomes.com/hdb-resale-prices-just-fell-for-the-first-time-since-2019-is-this-the-start-of-a-bigger-shift/#sh.jn0lfb

Claude:

HDB Resale Prices Fall for First Time Since 2019

HDB resale prices dipped 0.1% in Q1 2026 — the first quarterly decline since 2019 — marking the fifth consecutive quarter of slowing or flat price growth. While modest, this signals a meaningful shift in Singapore's public housing market.

The primary driver is a surge in flats reaching their Minimum Occupation Period (MOP). Around 13,400 units are expected to enter the resale market in 2026, roughly double last year's figure, with even larger volumes anticipated in 2027 and 2028. Key contributors include Tampines, Punggol, and Queenstown. This supply wave has already nudged analysts to revise full-year price growth forecasts down from 7% to around 5%.

The introduction of Plus and Prime flat categories may also be quietly reshaping demand. These centrally located BTO options give buyers access to well-situated homes without turning to the resale market. Despite stricter conditions like a 10-year MOP, they remain consistently oversubscribed.

On the financing side, buyers relying on bank loans face uncertainty. While interest rates aren't expected to spike, geopolitical tensions — particularly in the Middle East — could delay anticipated rate cuts, keeping borrowing costs elevated for longer. Those considering switching from HDB concessionary loans to bank loans are advised to consult a mortgage broker before acting.

Finally, the article addresses whether selling within the same development to upgrade is worthwhile. The verdict: it can make sense for lifestyle reasons, since you already know the environment. However, purely investment-driven moves may disappoint, as prices within a single development tend to rise in tandem, leaving little room for outperformance after accounting for stamp duties, legal fees, and agent commissions.

Comments:

Good information.

Food Updates: Sunshine Launches New Mao Shan Wang Durian Milk Bun

Source:

https://eatbook.sg/sunshine-mao-shan-wang-durian-milk-bun/

ChatGPT:

Sunshine Bakeries has launched a new limited-time treat, the Mao Shan Wang Durian Milk Bun, offering durian lovers an early taste of the prized fruit ahead of peak season. Priced at $2.50, the bun is now available across major supermarkets and convenience stores islandwide, though quantities are limited due to reliance on early-season harvests.

Marketed as a “First Taste” release, the bun uses real Mao Shan Wang pulp sourced from rare early-March yields. This ensures freshness and quality, while giving consumers a preview of the upcoming durian season. The product features 50% more durian filling than usual, packed into a soft, pillowy Hokkaido-style milk bun. The filling is described as smooth and custard-like, delivering the rich, bittersweet flavour profile that Mao Shan Wang is known for.

A key selling point is convenience. Unlike fresh durian, which can be messy and leave a strong lingering smell, this bun is designed to be fuss-free and portable—suitable for breakfast, snacks, or on-the-go consumption without the usual drawbacks.

This launch adds to Sunshine Bakeries’ growing range of creative bread offerings. Alongside staple flavours like Butter Sugar, Belgian Chocolate, Strawberry, and Vanilla, the brand also offers more unique options such as Dark Rye Komugi Loaf and various Shokupan loaves, including Butter, Shiro Barley, and Purple Sweet Potato. Their Poketto sandwich series further expands choices with fillings like Peanut Butter, Strawberry Cream Cheese, and Bolognese.

In related food news, other brands are also rolling out new items, highlighting a continued trend of innovative and indulgent food launches in Singapore.

Comments:

Looks good.

Will try one for lunch.

Property Updates: Over 1,000 Condos In Singapore Are Now Over 30 Years Old — And It Could Change How Buyers Think

Source:

https://stackedhomes.com/over-1000-condos-in-singapore-are-now-over-30-years-old-and-it-could-change-how-buyers-think/#sh.xhz2um

ChatGPT:

Over 1,000 of Singapore’s roughly 3,750 condo developments are now over 30 years old, raising important questions about ageing properties, rising maintenance costs, and future buyer behaviour. While there has been discussion about whether the government should support struggling MCSTs, public funding for private property maintenance is unlikely, given most Singaporeans do not live in condos.

As condos age, maintenance expenses increase, placing financial strain on owners. This shifts the en bloc conversation: instead of focusing purely on windfall gains, ageing developments may face pressure where staying becomes less viable. Some may struggle to fund major repairs while also failing to reach the required consensus for collective sales, leading to gradual decline.

One theoretical solution is lowering en bloc thresholds for older developments with insufficient sinking funds, though challenges like pricing and relocation remain. Alternatively, some condos choose renewal over redevelopment. Developments like Mandarin Gardens show that failed en bloc attempts can encourage owners to invest in upgrades, improving long-term viability.

For buyers, this trend means a shift in due diligence. Beyond monthly maintenance fees, they must assess sinking funds, past and upcoming major works, and the effectiveness of estate management. These factors will become increasingly critical as more condos enter their later life stages.

The article also highlights key buying considerations. Leasehold properties often offer better short- to mid-term gains due to lower entry prices, while freehold benefits require longer holding periods. Exit strategy depends on affordability and buyer demand, with mid-sized family units typically الأكثر liquid. Location—especially proximity to MRTs and amenities—remains crucial for resale demand and price support.

Comments:

Good Information.

Investing Updates: Singapore sets out plan to support gold trading amid growing interest

Source:

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/gold-trading-vault-mas-central-bank-6020216

Gemini:

Singapore is significantly expanding its gold ecosystem to establish itself as a premier global trading hub. On March 27, 2026, Chee Hong Tat, Deputy Chairman of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), unveiled a strategic plan focused on four key areas to capitalize on the growing investor interest in vaulting and trading gold within the region.

Core Strategic Pillars

The Gold Market Development Working Group, established in January 2026, will focus on:

• Infrastructure Enhancement: Improving physical facilities for the storage and transportation of gold.

• Sovereign Services: Offering specialized gold storage for foreign central banks and sovereign entities, leveraging Singapore’s reputation for safety and security.

• Product Diversification: Broadening the range of gold-related capital market products available to investors.

• Clearing and Settlement: Implementing a secure system for transferring assets, specifically addressing both the London-standard large bars (12.4kg) and the Asian-preferred kilobars (1kg).

Economic Impact

Mr. Chee emphasized that gold trading will serve as a new pillar for Singapore’s wealth and asset management sector. By building this ecosystem, the nation aims to attract more global assets and create high-quality jobs.

Addressing regional competition, specifically from Hong Kong, Mr. Chee noted that the global demand for a "safe haven" in an uncertain environment provides ample space for both hubs to coexist. Rather than reacting to short-term price fluctuations, Singapore is focused on long-term "environmental" growth. Detailed updates from the workgroup, which includes major banks and refineries, are expected throughout the year.

Comments:

Interesting move by government.

Investing Updates: The second coming of S-chips is different

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/second-coming-s-chips-different

ChatGPT:

Singapore is making a renewed push to attract Chinese companies to list on the Singapore Exchange (SGX), but with a far more cautious and targeted strategy than past attempts. This marks a “second coming” of S-chips—Chinese firms listed in Singapore—following earlier waves that ultimately failed due to weak governance and regulatory gaps.

The original S-chip wave began in the late 1990s as Singapore sought to rebuild market size after losing Malaysian listings. While China’s economic rise made these companies attractive, many firms lacked transparency, had poor fundamentals, and operated with limited regulatory oversight. By 2008, numerous accounting scandals and fraud cases led to a collapse in investor confidence, tarnishing the S-chip label.

This time, regulators are taking a different approach. Instead of smaller, lesser-known firms seeking primary listings, the focus is on established Chinese companies pursuing secondary listings in Singapore. Many of these firms are already listed on major exchanges such as Hong Kong, Shanghai, or Shenzhen, meaning they are subject to stricter disclosure standards, governance requirements, and ongoing investor scrutiny.

In addition, new listing criteria introduce stronger financial discipline. Companies must have a market capitalisation of at least S$1 billion and raise at least S$200 million, or 10% of their market value. These thresholds aim to filter out weaker firms and ensure only sizable, credible businesses participate.

This more selective strategy addresses the core weaknesses of the earlier S-chip era by prioritising quality over quantity and leveraging existing regulatory frameworks. With better oversight, stronger companies, and higher entry standards, Singapore’s latest effort to attract Chinese listings stands a better chance of success in building market scale and restoring investor trust.

Comments:

I was too young to understand much during the first S-chip wave.

Would be interesting to see what comes next.

Property Updates: Why Some Singaporeans Are Considering A Second Home In Malaysia Without Leaving Singapore — Thanks To MM2H

Source:

https://stackedhomes.com/mm2h-second-base-singaporeans/#sh.kzs4uq

Claude:

Why Singaporeans Are Eyeing Malaysia's MM2H Programme as a Second Home Option

The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme, traditionally associated with retirees, is attracting growing interest from a broader range of Singaporeans — including professionals, entrepreneurs, and families — following recent framework revisions.

The New Tiered Structure: The updated MM2H now offers three tiers:

• Platinum – 20-year visa; RM2M property + USD$1M fixed deposit
• Gold – 15-year visa; RM1M property + USD$500K fixed deposit
• Silver – 5-year visa; RM600K property + USD$150K fixed deposit

Notably, MM2H is not a pathway to permanent residency.

Why It's Gaining Traction: The impending launch of the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) by end-2026 is making cross-border living increasingly practical. Remote and hybrid work arrangements have also made extended stays in cities like Kuala Lumpur or Penang more feasible, without giving up Singapore as a primary home.

Lifestyle and Financial Appeal: Malaysian cities offer larger living spaces, a slower pace of life, and significantly lower property prices. Landed homes in Penang, for instance, start from RM2.96 million — a fraction of equivalent Singapore properties, where landed home prices are projected to rise at least 5% this year. Currency diversification through Ringgit-denominated assets is another draw.

Popular Locations: Johor Bahru (especially near the upcoming RTS), Kuala Lumpur's Mont Kiara and Bangsar, and Penang remain top choices among Singaporean buyers.

Key Risks to Consider: Policy changes, long-term financial commitments, tax implications, property liquidity, and varying foreign ownership rules across Malaysian states all warrant careful evaluation before committing.

For most Singaporeans, MM2H is less about relocating and more about expanding regional lifestyle flexibility.

LifeStyle Updates: You Can Earn Up To $75 In RedeemSG Supermarket Vouchers By Completing Walking Trails Around SG

Source:

https://thesmartlocal.com/read/walking-trails-cdc-vouchers/

Claude:

Walking Trails@CDC: Earn Up to $75 in Supermarket Vouchers

The Community Development Council (CDC), in collaboration with GovTech Singapore, has launched five new routes under the Walking Trails@CDC initiative this March 2026. Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents aged 15 and above with Singpass and CrowdTaskSG accounts can participate.

How it works: Participants complete physical trails around Singapore, stopping at five checkpoints to collect CDC Trail badges by completing tasks like photographing landmarks or answering trivia. Finishing all five checkpoints earns a $5 RedeemSG voucher. Spotting all six hidden digital owl mascots (Ollie) on the map during a trail adds an extra $10 voucher — bringing the total to $15 per trail.

With five new trails available, completing all of them could earn you up to $75 in vouchers.

The five new trails are:

• Central – Peranakan Museum to Jalan Besar Stadium (4km, ~1.25 hrs)
• North – Woodlands North MRT to Marsiling Lane Market (4.4km, ~1.5 hrs)
• East – Siglap to Simpang Bedok (4.1km, ~1 hr)
• East – Tampines East MRT to Tampines Central Park (4.1km, ~1.25 hrs)
• West – Jurong Town Hall to Jurong Market (4.6km, ~1.25 hrs)

Getting started: Log in to CrowdTaskSG via Singpass, tap "Join quest," and select your trail — no app download needed. Trails are mobile-only and can be done at your own pace.

Only the first 5,000 participants per trail receive rewards, and spots are still available. Vouchers can be spent at major supermarkets including FairPrice, Giant, Cold Storage, and Sheng Siong.

Happy Term 1 School Holidays!

Gemini: create an image that says "Happy Term 1 School Holidays!"

Travel Updates: Johor proposes 12 drop-off points for Singapore cross-border taxis; includes JB Sentral, Johor Premium Outlets

Source:

https://www.asiaone.com/singapore/johor-12-drop-points-singapore-cross-border-taxis-jb-sentral

ChatGPT:

Johor’s state government has proposed 12 new drop-off points for cross-border taxis travelling from Singapore to Malaysia, aiming to make cross-border travel more convenient for commuters and tourists. Currently, taxis from Singapore can only drop passengers at Larkin Sentral in Johor Bahru. The new proposal would significantly expand the locations where passengers can alight.

Among the suggested locations are key transport and commercial hubs such as Senai International Airport, JB Sentral, Medini, Mid Valley Southkey, Mount Austin, and Eco Botanic. Six shopping malls are also included, with Johor Premium Outlets specifically mentioned as one of them. These locations were selected because they are considered major activity hubs within Johor.

Johor’s Works, Transportation and Infrastructure committee chairman Mohamad Fazli Mohamad Salleh explained that the additional drop-off points would benefit travellers, including tourists who arrive at Changi Airport and want to travel directly to Johor by taxi.

The proposal also includes possible improvements for taxis travelling in the opposite direction. Malaysian taxis may eventually be allowed to drop passengers at five locations in Singapore: Changi Airport, Kranji, Jurong, Shenton Way, and Rochor.

Singapore officials say discussions are ongoing. Sun Xueling, Senior Minister of State for Transport, said the government has held discussions with the National Taxi Association and the National Private Hire Vehicles Association to improve cross-border taxi services.

Industry representatives have also raised issues such as enforcement against illegal ride-hailing services, better holding areas for drivers, and potential fare reviews to reflect higher operating costs.

If implemented, the proposal could make cross-border taxi travel between Singapore and Johor more flexible and convenient, while also creating more earning opportunities for taxi drivers.

Comments:

Pls make this service smooth and seamless!

This service will make a meaningful impact for non-car owners with large family like me.