News

Singapore retail growth masks uneven sector performance

Tourism and e-commerce gains contrast with weaker mass markets.

Gold bar demand hits record 3.5 tonnes

Asian investors drove Q1 gold buying.

Daily Markets Briefing: STI down 0.55%; Top stock is UOL Group Limited

UOL Group Limited is the top stock with a 1.41% increase.

Mapletree Industrial Trust full-year DPU falls 6.3%

Revenue declined after portfolio divestments.

Hong Leong Asia plans $145m share placement

Most proceeds will support corporate activities.

Seatrium raises $400m in debut bond issue, demand 1.7 times covered

This will be used for refinancing, capital spending and working capital under $3b programme.

Singapore sees $197b FDI inflow in 2025

The largest contributors were the US, the Netherlands, Ireland, Mainland China, and the UK.

Singapore ranks 6th globally, tops APAC for A&E talent: Savills

However, firms are urged to be more deliberate in office space use amidst rising costs.

MPA renews SMU tie-up as maritime talent race intensifies

Maritime training links expand as Singapore and China align on digital and green shipping capabilities.

MAS gives nod to BlackRock ASEAN equity strategy under EQDP

It will invest across ASEAN, with around half allocated to Singapore equities and SME exposure focus.

Stalled US-Iran talks to keep energy costs elevated into H2

Investors are also urged to focus on gas sourcing, not just headline LNG prices.

SME borrowing costs ease to 8.18% in 2025 but Middle East risks loom over 2026

Loan approval rates rose to 74% but bank processing times stretched to 33 days amidst shifting credit conditions.

Sharpa and JTC drive AI robotics growth in Punggol Digital District

They will support robot testing, innovation lab and use-case deployment of Sharpa’s North autonomous robots.

Two-thirds of Gen Zs say firms not prepared for their needs: Robert Walters

Whilst most firms are open to hiring them, 4% remain hesitant—the highest in SEA.

EMA calls for proposals on geothermal feasibility study

The study will assess technical, environmental and commercial viability of next-generation geothermal systems.