Industry News

Alpha Ladder Finance has been granted a patent in Singapore for its Non-Fungible Digital Twin (NFDT) framework, a blockchain-native architecture designed to digitally represent real-world assets. This patent, awarded by the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore, marks a significant advancement in Web3 and digital infrastructure, allowing for verifiable, compliant, and programmable ownership through tokens.

The NFDT framework, which was initially filed in April 2021, addresses the limitations of static Non-Fungible Token (NFT) models by introducing an advanced smart contract architecture. This enables asset records to evolve by capturing real-world changes in usage, condition, and ownership through a secure, timestamped ledger. Unlike conventional NFTs, NFDTs are designed for live assets with evolving data streams, supporting compliance-grade reporting and asset-backed financing.

Dr Bo Bai, Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of Alpha Ladder Group, stated, “We started building the NFDT framework because we knew the market would eventually demand real-time, non-fungible, and verifiable asset intelligence, not static records or speculation.”

The NFDT technology is expected to play a crucial role in the burgeoning market for real-world asset tokenisation, projected to surpass $16 trillion by 2030. This growth is driven by demand from sovereign wealth funds, financial institutions, and capital market participants, who increasingly expect transparency and auditability.

With the patent secured, Alpha Ladder Finance is collaborating with strategic partners to roll out NFDT-powered applications across various sectors, including renewable energy, real estate, and ESG-linked financial products. This innovation aims to empower enterprises, investors, and regulators by bridging real-world performance with digital finance.
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Frasers Centrepoint Asset Management Ltd., the manager of Frasers Centrepoint Trust (FCT), has announced a successful third quarter for 2025, marked by the acquisition of Northpoint City South Wing. This strategic move, completed with overwhelming unitholder support, aims to unlock value through asset enhancement initiatives (AEIs), tenant mix strategies, and operational efficiencies.

The acquisition has bolstered FCT’s position as a leading owner of prime suburban retail space in Singapore. The trust reported a stable committed occupancy rate of 99.9% and a year-on-year increase in shopper traffic and tenant sales by 2.1% and 4.4%, respectively. These metrics underscore the resilience of FCT’s operational and financial performance amidst a challenging retail environment.

Financially, FCT has improved its cost of debt, which now stands at 3.8%, down from 3.9% in the previous quarter. The aggregate leverage has increased to 42.8% as of 30 June 2025, reflecting the strategic investments made during the period. The average debt maturity has also extended to 3.38 years.

In addition to the acquisition, FCT has commenced AEI at Hougang Mall, targeting a 7% return on investment on a $51 million (local currency) capital expenditure. The project has already secured 74% leasing pre-commitment, introducing new-to-mall concepts and reinforcing the mall’s appeal.

Looking ahead, FCT’s strategic initiatives and robust financial metrics position it well to capitalise on growth opportunities in Singapore’s retail market. The trust’s proactive management and strategic acquisitions are expected to continue driving value for unitholders.
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Singapore Paincare has reported a remarkable 90% relief rate for seniors suffering from chronic pain, thanks to its proprietary Painostic® diagnostic model. Between 2020 and 2024, the model has provided meaningful relief after just one minimally invasive procedure, reducing the need for long-term medication or surgery. This breakthrough is particularly significant as Singapore’s ageing population continues to grow, increasing the demand for effective pain management solutions.

The Painostic® model integrates precision diagnostics with targeted interventions, including Myospan and Neurospan treatments, and is complemented by rehabilitation and Traditional Chinese Medicine. This holistic approach has been pivotal in achieving high success rates, as noted by Bernard Lee, Founder and CEO of Singapore Paincare. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Lee was inspired to develop these treatments after witnessing his father’s struggle with cancer-related pain.

The success of Singapore Paincare’s approach highlights the potential of combining Western medical practices with Traditional Chinese Medicine to manage chronic pain effectively. The company has treated over 3,000 patients, demonstrating the real-world impact of its methods.

Looking ahead, Singapore Paincare aims to continue refining its techniques and expanding its reach to provide relief to more patients. The integration of innovative diagnostic models like Painostic® could set a new standard in pain management, offering hope to those suffering from chronic conditions.
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Beautique, a leader in premium skin and wellness care, has announced the launch of Beautique Aesthetic Clinic, a medical-grade division aimed at meeting the increasing demand for advanced aesthetic treatments in Singapore. This new venture will provide doctor-administered services such as Botox®, dermal fillers, and skin boosters, complementing Beautique’s existing luxury medi-spa offerings.

The introduction of the Beautique Aesthetic Clinic marks a significant expansion for the brand, which has been a staple in Singapore’s beauty scene for over a decade. The clinic will offer treatments that require the precision and expertise of licensed medical professionals, ensuring clients receive safe and effective care. Each treatment begins with a comprehensive consultation and facial scan to tailor services to individual needs.

Beautique’s medi-spa locations across Orchard, Toa Payoh, and Ang Mo Kio will continue to offer their signature treatments, including the PlasmaGlow Facial and HiFU LDM Lifting, known for their rejuvenating effects without downtime. The PlasmaGlow Ritual, for instance, uses cold plasma technology combined with custom-formulated masks to hydrate and firm the skin.

The new clinic and existing medi-spa services are supported by a team of experienced therapists and specialists, many of whom have undergone extensive training. This ensures that clients receive not only immediate results but also long-term care and satisfaction.

With this dual approach, Beautique reinforces its reputation as a trusted name in holistic beauty, offering a seamless blend of science, experience, and personalised care. For more information, visit Beautique’s website.
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The Singapore Fashion Council has unveiled The Bridge Fashion Innovator (TBFI) Launch Pad, Asia’s first ideathon focused on fashion, aiming to revolutionise the industry through technology, creativity, and sustainability. This initiative invites aspiring founders, designers, technologists, and social entrepreneurs to tackle pressing challenges such as climate impact and ethical production.

TBFI Launch Pad is more than an event; it is a platform for inclusive innovation, welcoming participants from all backgrounds without requiring prior fashion experience. “By bridging fashion with technology and sustainability, we are building a resilient, future-ready ecosystem that puts social good at the forefront,” said Benjamin Tan, Senior Director of Innovation & Technology at the Singapore Fashion Council.

Participants will engage in a dynamic environment, receiving mentorship and industry exposure whilst developing solutions around themes like Nature & Wildlife Conservation, Sport & Wellness, and Social Impact focusing on Access to Water. The ideathon includes masterclasses on the fashion value chain, design thinking, and pitching, equipping participants with practical skills.

The programme culminates in a final pitch event on 25 September 2025 during the Be The Change Summit. Winners will share a $7,300 (S$10,000) cash prize, sponsored by RGE and Asia Pacific Rayon, and gain internship opportunities with industry leaders. Select teams will receive venture building support from Wavemaker Impact Team and Louken Group.

Zhang Ting Ting, CEO of the Singapore Fashion Council, emphasised the initiative’s potential: “TBFI Launch Pad is a call to action for this new generation to reimagine what fashion can be — not just for style, but for meaningful impact.” The initiative is supported by The Earthshot Prize Innovation Challenge and the H&M Foundation, underscoring a commitment to a sustainable fashion future.
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ISDN Holdings Limited, a leading industrial automation firm in Asia, and Schneider Electric have announced an expansion of their strategic partnership to enhance the adoption of Smart Warehouse Systems (SWS) across the region. This collaboration will see Schneider Electric implementing ISDN’s SWS in Singapore and connecting with potential customers for future projects.

The announcement follows a visit by Schneider Electric on 18 July to a 3PL Smart Warehouse facility, designed and delivered by ISDN subsidiaries. The facility, already operational in multiple Asian warehouses, has demonstrated significant improvements, including a 50% increase in productivity, a 91% reduction in stocktaking time, a 33% reduction in inventory manpower, and near-perfect order accuracy.

The Singapore facility features 12 carton transfer units and 20 autonomous mobile robots, handling 450 boxes per hour, and an 8-metre-tall racking system with a 16,000-box capacity. The design is modular and scalable, allowing adaptation to changing business needs.

C.K. Teo, President and Managing Director of ISDN Holdings, stated, “As automation technology advances in Asia, we’re seeing a clear ‘compression’ of the technology stack. Customers are increasingly looking for fully-built, bespoke applications like the Smart Warehouse System that integrate the entire stack of technology from cloud operations to mechanical automation.”

Xing Jian Pang, East Asia Zone President of Schneider Electric, commented, “Our partnership with ISDN is a testament to our ‘glocal’ strategy of collaborating with like-minded partners to realise the best technology available for our region.”

This partnership underscores the growing importance of smart warehousing in building resilient and adaptable supply chains, ensuring seamless product movement and management.
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CGS International has reaffirmed its ‘buy’ rating for Elite UK REIT, following a series of site visits to the company’s properties in Scotland. The visits, which included locations in Edinburgh, Falkirk, Dundee, and Glasgow, highlighted the stability of income streams from government tenants, reinforcing the REIT’s defensive cashflow strategy. As of the first quarter of 2025, these Scottish assets represent 16.7% of Elite’s portfolio assets under management and contribute 10.1% to its total gross rental income.

The report from CGS International underscores Elite’s strategic advantage in repositioning assets into growth sectors like purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA). A notable example is the planned conversion of Lindsay House in Dundee into a 168-bed student accommodation, leveraging its proximity to local universities. This move is expected to enhance Elite’s portfolio value and address the growing demand for student housing.

CGS International has increased its distribution per unit (DPU) forecasts for Elite from 2025 to 2027 by 1.26% to 3.07%, reflecting a robust first half of 2025 and contributions from recent property acquisitions. The target price has been raised to £0.38, supported by the REIT’s stable earnings and the potential for net asset value (NAV) uplift through property repurposing.

With the interest rate cycle peaking, CGS International anticipates Elite’s book NAV to remain resilient, offering further value through strategic asset management. The REIT’s FY25 dividend yield is projected at 8.6%, translating to a total return of approximately 19%. Potential catalysts for re-rating include NAV boosts from valuation uplifts and increased dividend payouts, although tenant concentration remains a risk factor.
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Longbridge Securities, an AI-driven online brokerage platform regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore, has been awarded the Fintech Initiative Award at the 2025 Asian Banking & Finance Fintech Awards. This accolade highlights Longbridge’s innovative approach to financial technology, particularly its success in enhancing the investment experience through intelligent and accessible solutions.

The award acknowledges Longbridge’s impressive performance in 2024, where the platform saw a 450% surge in user assets and a 220% increase in active users across Singapore and Hong Kong. The company’s commitment to 0% commission trading has saved clients over $20 million in trading fees, making it the only brokerage in Singapore offering zero-fee trading across the US, Hong Kong, and Singapore markets.

Longbridge’s product roadmap is tailored to global investors, offering access to over 32,000 financial products, including stocks, ETFs, and US options. In 2024, the platform introduced over 120 new features, including overnight trading and fractional share investing, allowing users to trade beyond traditional hours.

The introduction of PortAI, an AI-powered financial assistant, has further cemented Longbridge’s position as a leader in AI application within finance. With over 1 million user interactions in 2024, PortAI helps users navigate market information and portfolio insights effectively.

Looking ahead, Longbridge remains focused on product innovation and enhancing user-centric services. CEO Xu Shengyu stated, “Technology has the power to democratise investing. We are committed to building a truly investor-first platform and remain confident in the long-term potential of Singapore and global capital markets.”
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ONERHT Foundation successfully hosted its 8th Greening ASEAN Initiatives and Leadership (GAIL) Forum on 22 July 2025 at Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre. The event, attended by over 100 participants, focused on green leadership, ESG regulatory frameworks, carbon markets, and the role of artificial intelligence in promoting sustainability. The forum, themed “Industry, Business, and Regulatory Perspectives on Climate Mitigation and Adaptation,” featured a half-day programme of discussions and knowledge exchange.

Senior Minister of State Low Yen Ling from the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, and the Ministry of Trade and Industry, delivered the keynote address as the Guest of Honour. Kaylee Kwok, Chairman of ONERHT Foundation, remarked, “At GAIL 2025, we saw a powerful convergence of actionable insights and strategies from business and industry leaders as well as sustainability domain experts.”

The forum included a dynamic fireside chat on “The Future of Green Leadership in ASEAN,” exploring leadership models driving sustainability agendas. A presentation on “Navigating ASEAN’s Green Transition: Legal and Policy Pathways” provided updates on ASEAN’s progress in carbon markets and corporate responsibility. Discussions also covered the current state of carbon markets in Asia, investment opportunities, and evolving legal frameworks.

Chng LiLing, Director of RHT GRACE Institute, emphasised the importance of embedding sustainability into governance frameworks, stating, “ESG is now foundational for the long-term success of any business.”

Since its inception in 2018, the GAIL Forum has become a central platform for sustainable development across ASEAN, raising over $4 million (S$5.5 million) to support more than 35 charitable organisations.
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Singapore’s industrial property market demonstrated remarkable resilience in Q2 2025, with a significant 185.5% increase in total sales value, reaching S$2.2 billion, according to Knight Frank’s analysis of JTC’s latest statistics. The sector’s stability is attributed to robust buyer interest and an active investment market, despite global supply chain disruptions and US-imposed tariffs.

The all-industrial price index rose by 1.4% quarter-on-quarter (q-o-q), whilst the rental index saw a 0.7% increase. The number of transactions also climbed to 424, a 4.7% rise from the previous quarter. Notable transactions included the sale of a data centre at 9 Tai Seng Drive for S$455.2 million and business park properties, The Strategy and 5 Science Park Drive, for S$280.0 million and S$245.0 million, respectively.

Leonard Tay, Head of Research at Knight Frank Singapore, noted that Singapore remains an attractive hub for investors and businesses. “Despite the current turmoil among goods-producing countries, Singapore continues to be a trusted investment and business hub,” he stated. The minimal 10% tariffs imposed by the US on Singapore, compared to other South-East Asian nations, have been a consideration for globally mobile manufacturers.

The industrial sector’s appeal is further bolstered by new developments, such as Cariflex’s polyisoprene plant on Jurong Island and Alcon Manufacturing’s expanded operations in Tuas. Additionally, Micron Technology’s upcoming S$8.9 billion plant in Woodlands and the National Semiconductor Translation and Innovation Centre for Gallium Nitride at one-north are set to enhance Singapore’s manufacturing capabilities.

Looking ahead, the industrial investment environment is expected to remain stable, with investors seeking logistics and multiple-user industrial assets. However, the global manufacturing outlook remains uncertain, potentially affecting rental growth in the latter half of 2025.
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