Industry News

Standard Chartered has announced the launch of a fully integrated digital assets trading service for institutional clients, marking a significant milestone in the financial services industry. The service, available through the bank’s UK branch, includes spot trading for Bitcoin (XBT/USD) and Ether (XET/USD) and will soon expand to include non-deliverable forwards (NDFs). This makes Standard Chartered the first global systemically important bank to offer deliverable spot cryptoasset trading to corporates, investors, and asset managers.

The new trading service is seamlessly integrated with Standard Chartered’s existing platforms, allowing institutional clients to trade cryptoassets through familiar foreign exchange interfaces. Clients can choose their preferred custodian, including Standard Chartered’s own secure digital assets custody solutions. As a Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)-registered cryptoasset service provider, the bank ensures a regulated and secure trading environment, supported by its robust balance sheet and institutional-grade risk controls.

Bill Winters, Group Chief Executive of Standard Chartered, emphasised the importance of digital assets in the evolution of financial services, stating, “Digital assets are a foundational element of the evolution in financial services. They’re integral to enabling new pathways for innovation, greater inclusion, and growth across the industry.”

Tony Hall, Global Head of Trading and XVA, Markets, at Standard Chartered, added, “With growing interest in regulated digital assets solutions, we are well positioned to meet client needs whilst capturing the opportunities in this space.”

This launch is part of Standard Chartered’s broader strategy to expand its digital asset capabilities, which already include custody and trading services through its ventures, Zodia Custody and Zodia Markets, and digital asset tokenisation services via Libeara.
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Developers in Singapore experienced a slowdown in sales for June 2025, with only 272 new private homes sold, marking a 12.8% decrease from May’s 312 units. This decline is attributed to limited new project launches during the school holidays. Despite the dip, sales were up 19.3% compared to June 2024, according to data from the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA).

Only two new projects were introduced in June: Arina East Residences and Amber House, both located in District 15. These projects contributed to the 187 new units launched, a significant increase from the 20 units in May. The Rest of Central Region (RCR) continued to lead sales, with 189 units sold, slightly down from 191 in May. Notable projects included One Marina Gardens and Bloomsbury Residences.

The Outside Central Region (OCR) saw a 34.9% drop in sales, with 69 units sold, the lowest in over a year. Hillock Green was the top seller in this region. In the Core Central Region (CCR), only 14 units were sold, the lowest since January 2009. High-value transactions included a $30.87 million unit at Skywaters Residences.

Executive condominiums (ECs) saw a rise in sales, with 33 units sold, up 37.5% from May. The upcoming launch of Otto Place EC is expected to boost this segment further.

Wong Siew Ying, Head of Research & Content at PropNex Realty, noted, “June was a relatively quiet month for developers’ sales, but the lull is expected to be short-lived with sales projected to pick up in July as several new launches are lined up.” Upcoming projects in July, including LyndenWoods and UpperHouse, are anticipated to revitalise the market.
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A recent survey conducted by PropNex has shed light on the current sentiment among homebuyers in Singapore, revealing that almost three-quarters of them don’t foresee a drop in property prices within the next year. With more than 1,100 people participating in the study, the results paint a picture of optimism driven by falling interest rates – about four out of ten survey-takers say they’re considering making a move due to these changes.

When it comes to where homeowners want to live, there seems to be a subtle yet significant shift taking place. A larger proportion of responders – 12%, up from just eight percent last year – prefer buying resale HDB apartments rather than waiting for public launches. That said, there doesn’t appear to be much waning enthusiasm when it comes to high-rise living; nearly nine in ten participants still covet either exclusive condominium units or executive condos, despite increased competition and prices.

Commenting on what we can reasonably expect going forward, Ismail Gafoor, who serves both as President and Chief Operating Officer at PropNex, forecasts steady gains across both residential markets. While he notes growth might happen ‘at a slower clip’, his remarks reinforce our confidence in local developers maintaining their momentum in spite of global trends.

It’s becoming increasingly evident, however, that affordability poses a major concern amongst potential homebuyers – roughly eighty percent reported having a personal ceiling set somewhere under two million dollars, hinting that many may choose smaller homes located further away from central areas if necessary to stay within budgetary limits.

One interesting side effect worth noting here though relates directly back again towards consumer behavior adaptations amid uncertain times today because even though certain key regions remain especially attractive e.g., district fifteen containing notable neighborhoods such as Katong etc.; overall individual requirements vary greatly depending largely whether one places greater emphasis upon factors like ease access routes versus purely geographical aspects per se thus giving insight deeper look consumers’ needs priorities moving ahead future plans respectively investing properties accordingly thereby creating smoother processes altogether resulting benefits all involved parties alike!

Cisco has announced the appointment of Ben Dawson as the new President for its Asia Pacific, Japan, and Greater China (APJC) business, effective 28 July 2025. Dawson, who has been with Cisco for over two decades, will succeed Dave West and report to Oliver Tuszik, Executive Vice President of Global Sales and Chief Sales Officer.

Dawson, currently based in Melbourne, will relocate to Cisco’s APJC headquarters in Singapore.

Dawson’s extensive career at Cisco includes leading roles across the enterprise, public sector, commercial, channels, and service provider segments in both the United States and Australia. Most recently, he served as the head of Cisco Australia & New Zealand, where he was instrumental in driving digital transformation and fostering a workplace culture recognised as the best place to work for five consecutive years.

In his new role, Dawson will focus on helping customers and partners in the APJC region seize opportunities presented by the AI era. “The confluence of AI, cybersecurity, and next-generation networking presents an extraordinary opportunity,” Dawson remarked. “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity and has the potential to reshape industries, economies, and societies.”

His leadership is expected to accelerate growth across the region, leveraging Cisco’s unified networking, security, and collaboration platforms.
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Sheng Siong Group has successfully opened three new supermarket outlets in Singapore, with plans to bid for additional sites following the Housing Development Board’s (HDB) announcement of two new supermarket tenders for 2026. The recent openings at Tengah Garden, Sumang Walk, and KINEX Mall mark a significant step in Sheng Siong’s expansion, with three more stores expected to open by August 2025.

The new tenders, announced on 1 July 2025, offer Sheng Siong the opportunity to bid for sites ranging from 5,400 to 9,700 square feet, aligning with the company’s typical store sizes. These sites are expected to be up for tender between March and June 2026. Sheng Siong anticipates opening 10 stores in the fiscal year 2025 and five in 2026, bolstering its market presence.

In May 2025, supermarket industry sales saw a 7% year-on-year increase, partly driven by the government’s $370 (S$500) Community Development Council (CDC) voucher disbursement. Sheng Siong’s sales growth outpaced the industry average by 4% points, aided by its unique CDC voucher strategy. Unlike competitors, Sheng Siong offered weekly discounts on selected items with a lower minimum spend requirement, encouraging repeat visits and increasing average basket sizes.

Despite potential challenges from staffing and rental costs, Sheng Siong remains optimistic about its growth prospects. The company expects operating leverage from its expanding network and strong procurement capabilities to drive a 6% earnings per share compound annual growth rate over the next two years. The company has reiterated its positive outlook, raising its target price to $1.63 (S$2.21), reflecting the robust pipeline and recent store openings.
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Orchard Road, Singapore’s premier retail and lifestyle hub, is celebrating the nation’s 60th anniversary with a series of SG60-themed deals and experiences. Visitors can enjoy discounts of up to 60% and creative offers centred around the number six, available at various malls, hotels, and restaurants along the famous street.

Shangri-La Singapore is offering a 60% discount on the third night’s stay, whilst Artyzen Singapore provides $60 dining credits for Deluxe Room bookings. Voco Orchard Singapore tempts diners with free-flow steak and pasta deals, and Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel offers local delights and beer promotions. Beyond discounts, some establishments are curating unique experiences. Café Quenino at Artyzen Singapore is hosting a six-month dining series, featuring local chefs and a bespoke cocktail series, to celebrate Singapore’s culinary diversity.

Shangri-La Singapore enhances its guests’ stay with complimentary tickets to the National Museum’s exhibition, “Once Upon a Tide: Singapore’s Journey from Settlement to Global City.” Pan Pacific Orchard offers a wellness experience with a 9D Breathwork Activation, led by local actor Paul Foster, and discounted brunch options.

Retailers are also participating, with discounts at TWG Tea and Poh Heng Jewellery. Metro offers beauty boxes and significant discounts on various products. Additionally, *SCAPE provides 60% off venue bookings, and orchardgateway offers complimentary parking with a minimum spend.

Mark Shaw, Chairman of the Orchard Road Business Association, expressed delight at Orchard Road’s role in celebrating Singapore’s milestones, emphasising its commitment to maintaining the area’s reputation as a premier destination. As Singapore marks this significant milestone, Orchard Road’s offerings promise to attract both locals and tourists alike.
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Singapore’s construction sector is poised for significant growth, with ready-mix concrete (RMC) demand expected to reach 18 million cubic metres by 2027, a 34% increase from 2024’s 13.4 million cubic metres. This surge is attributed to a peak in construction demand anticipated from 2026 onwards, as contracts awarded in the coming months translate into active projects.

The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) forecasts that 2025 will see RMC demand at the higher end of 12.0-14.5 million cubic metres. This aligns with the industry’s historical trend of higher RMC demand in the latter half of the year. Notably, the first five months of 2025 have already seen construction output rise by 9% year-on-year to $12.0b (S$16.4b), indicating robust activity in the sector.

Pan-United Corp Ltd (PANU) and Hong Leong Asia (HLA), key players in the concrete industry, are expected to benefit significantly. PANU, with a 40% market share in Singapore, is well-positioned due to its focus on infrastructure and institutional projects. HLA, with operations in both Singapore and Malaysia, stands to gain from the construction of several rail networks in Malaysia.

The sector’s outlook remains positive, with a well-stocked project pipeline and potential for earnings-accretive mergers and acquisitions. However, risks such as project delays due to bottlenecks in other construction services and work stoppages could pose challenges.

As the Singapore government continues to emphasise workplace safety, incorporating stringent criteria for public sector projects, the construction industry is set to navigate these demands whilst capitalising on the anticipated growth in RMC demand.
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Sharon Soh has been appointed as the Managing Director for Southeast Asia at Assembly, a global omnichannel media agency under Stagwell. Based in Singapore, Soh will report to Richard Brosgill, CEO of Assembly APAC, and is tasked with accelerating the agency’s growth and enhancing client success across the region. Her appointment aims to strengthen Assembly’s leadership in Southeast Asia, Greater China, and North Asia, whilst advancing its commitment to delivering top-tier brand performance.

Soh, a former executive at IPG Mediabrands, brings extensive experience in sectors such as FMCG, automotive, retail, and finance. Her expertise in strategic planning and business growth will be crucial in translating Assembly’s APAC strategy into tangible results for Southeast Asian clients. “Her leadership will drive tighter collaboration across markets,” said Brosgill, highlighting the importance of Soh’s role in merging global excellence with local insights.

Soh expressed enthusiasm for Assembly’s vision, stating, “Brands today need a partner who can expertly navigate the complexities of local markets whilst capitalising on opportunities to scale globally.” Her leadership is expected to foster better brand experiences and cultivate impactful partnerships across the region.

Assembly, known for its holistic approach that combines data, talent, and technology, continues to set new standards in the media agency sector. With over 2,300 professionals across 35 offices worldwide, the agency remains committed to social and environmental impact, aiming to revolutionise marketing through its innovative strategies. Soh’s appointment is effective immediately, marking a significant step in Assembly’s regional evolution.
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In a bid to kerb speculative activity in the property market, the Singapore government has announced changes to the sellers’ stamp duty (SSD) for private residential properties, effective from 4 July 2025. The holding period subject to SSD has been extended from three to four years, and the duty rates have been increased by four percentage points across all tiers, now ranging from 4% to 16%. These measures aim to discourage short-term property sales and speculative demand, according to government sources.

The changes mark a return to pre-2017 SSD levels, following a significant rise in property transactions with short holding periods and increased sub-sale activity. The Urban Redevelopment Authority’s property price index indicates that private home prices have surged by an average of 9.7% in the core and rest of the central region, and 19% outside the central region since the end of 2022. Despite this, sub-sales accounted for only 2.6% to 9.5% of total transactions from 2022 to 2024.

Whilst the impact on the residential market is expected to be limited due to the small percentage of sub-sale transactions, the policy revision could affect market sentiment. Upcoming project launches, such as The Robertson Opus and UPPERHOUSE at Orchard Boulevard, will be closely monitored for sales response.

The sector remains neutral, with expectations of a slower macroeconomic outlook and cautious buying sentiment. UOL Group is highlighted as a preferred sector pick due to its strong balance sheet and potential for value creation through acquisitions and asset enhancements.
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One Tax CM, a Singapore-based corporate service provider, is playing a crucial role in assisting foreign entrepreneurs in navigating the complexities of establishing a business presence in Singapore. With the introduction of new requirements under the Corporate Service Providers Act 2024, the firm is helping overseas founders understand and comply with local regulations, such as appointing a local director and opening corporate bank accounts.

Singapore’s Companies Act mandates that all registered companies have at least one locally resident director. For foreign founders, this often means arranging for a nominee director, a process that must be handled with care to ensure compliance with fiduciary duties. The Corporate Service Providers Act 2024 further stipulates that only registered corporate service providers (CSPs) can arrange nominee directors, who must be assessed as fit and proper individuals.

Lancaster Lee, co-founder and Managing Director of One Tax CM, highlighted the challenges foreign founders face: “Singapore is widely regarded as a stable, rules-based environment for business, but foreign founders often underestimate the administrative and regulatory steps required after incorporation.”

In addition to directorship requirements, foreign-owned entities must navigate tightened financial regulations when opening bank accounts. Enhanced due diligence by banks necessitates detailed documentation regarding the source of funds and business activities.

Beyond incorporation, companies must adhere to regulatory and tax compliance, including filing annual returns and potentially registering for Goods and Services Tax (GST). Singapore’s strategic position as a gateway to Southeast Asia makes it an attractive base for international companies, offering a multilingual workforce and a network of trade agreements.

Lee emphasised the importance of understanding the local context: “Foreign companies looking to expand into Asia often choose Singapore first. The country’s infrastructure and legal systems provide confidence, but founders still need to understand the local operating context.” One Tax CM offers tailored guidance to a diverse range of clients, including tech startups and multinational subsidiaries.
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