Regional News

Confluent’s latest report reveals that whilst Singaporean IT leaders are eager to embrace AI-driven transformation, challenges in data ownership and a shortage of AI skills are slowing progress. The 2025 Data Streaming Report, which surveyed over 4,175 leaders across 12 countries, underscores the importance of data streaming platforms (DSPs) in accelerating AI adoption and business innovation.

The report highlights that 90% of Singapore IT leaders view DSPs as crucial to achieving data-related goals, with these platforms acting as the “nervous system” of modern enterprises. Suvig Sharma, Regional Head for Asia at Confluent, noted, “Data streaming platforms are quickly becoming a business imperative for modern enterprises.”

Key findings from the report indicate that Singapore businesses face significant challenges with data timeliness and quality, affecting their ability to become real-time enterprises. Despite these hurdles, 87% of IT leaders consider DSPs a strategic priority, with benefits such as product innovation and faster time-to-market cited by 85% of respondents.

Confluent has also introduced new capabilities in its Confluent Cloud, including snapshot queries and IP filtering for Apache Flink, aimed at enhancing data processing and security. These advancements are designed to provide faster insights and bolster decision-making processes.

As Singapore continues to push for AI integration, overcoming these foundational challenges remains critical. The report suggests that DSPs will play a pivotal role in enabling enterprises to harness the full potential of AI, driving significant business value and innovation.
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The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has announced the launch of tenders for three significant sites at Upper Thomson Road, Dorset Road, and Telok Blangah Road under the first half of 2025 Government Land Sales programme. These sites are expected to collectively yield approximately 1,765 residential units and 2,000 square metres of commercial space. The tenders will close on 23 October 2025, 9 October 2025, and 4 November 2025, respectively.

Upper Thomson Road (Parcel A) is set to benefit from its direct connection to the Springleaf MRT station and proximity to green spaces like Springleaf Nature Park. The site is expected to attract buyers seeking tranquil living environments with convenient transport links. Justin Quek, CEO of OrangeTee & Tie, anticipates 2 to 5 bidders with the highest bid ranging from $700 to $770 (S$950 to S$1,050) per square foot (psf).

Dorset Road offers a strategic location near Farrer Park MRT Station and City Square Mall, making it appealing for families and young professionals. The area is well-served by amenities, including schools and hospitals. Quek predicts 4 to 7 bidders for this site, with bids expected between $810 and $880 (S$1,100 and S$1,200) psf.

Telok Blangah Road marks the first private residential site in the Greater Southern Waterfront transformation. Its proximity to the city centre and recreational areas like Sentosa positions it as a prime location. The site is expected to attract 4 to 6 bidders, with bids anticipated between $880 and $950 (S$1,200 and S$1,300) psf.

These developments are poised to meet the growing demand for residential properties in Singapore, offering diverse options for potential buyers and investors.
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The Global Property Expo, a premier international real estate investment event organised by JLL, is set to take place from 18 to 20 July 2025 at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore. Supported by Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, the Expo aims to connect potential buyers with developers from across the globe, offering insights into overseas property investments.

The Expo will feature a diverse range of exhibitors, including prominent developers from the UAE, MENA, UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, the Americas, and Asia. Notable participants include DAMAC and Emaar from Dubai, JLL Residential from the UK, and Gurner Group from Australia. This marks the first time many of these developers will exhibit in Asia, highlighting the growing interest in expanding their networks within Southeast Asia.

Attendees will have the opportunity to explore various property types, from luxurious residences to eco-friendly buildings, and engage directly with developers, financial experts, and legal advisers. The event promises over 30 expert-led panels and discussions, offering valuable insights into international property investment strategies.

The Expo is designed to attract high-net-worth individuals, private investors, and wealth managers, with an expected attendance of 3,000 to 4,000 qualified participants. Registration for the event is free, providing an accessible platform for those interested in global real estate opportunities.

For more information, visit the Expo’s digital press room, which offers a range of supporting materials, including press releases and fact sheets. The event promises to be a significant opportunity for investors looking to diversify their portfolios internationally.
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The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has released three government land sales (GLS) sites for tender in Upper Thomson Road (Parcel A), Dorset Road, and Telok Blangah Road. These sites, collectively, have the potential to yield 1,765 new private residential units. Wong Siew Ying, Head of Research and Content at PropNex, commented on the mixed interest expected across these plots, with the Telok Blangah Road site anticipated to attract significant attention due to its location on the former Keppel Golf Course site.

The Telok Blangah Road site is poised to offer 745 new private homes and is the first private housing plot on the former Keppel Golf Course site. The area is within walking distance of the Telok Blangah MRT station and close to amenities such as VivoCity mall and Labrador Nature Reserve. Wong noted that the site could appeal to both owner-occupiers and investors, particularly HDB upgraders from nearby areas. The site is expected to attract 5 to 6 bids, with a top bid land rate of $1,250 to $1,350 per square foot per plot ratio (psf ppr).

The Dorset Road plot, offering 425 residential units, is near the Farrer Park MRT station and several schools. The area is set to benefit from the upcoming Piccadilly Galleria mall. Wong expects the site to draw 4 to 5 bids, with a top bid land rate of $1,100 to $1,200 psf ppr.

The Upper Thomson Road (Parcel A) site, which can accommodate 595 residential units and 2,000 square metres of commercial space, is linked to the Springleaf MRT station. The URA has provided more flexibility for this site, which may encourage interest after it previously drew no bids. Wong anticipates 1 to 2 bids, with a top bid land rate of $900 to $1,000 psf ppr.
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FullOut, a Singapore-based activewear brand, has unveiled its Ribbed Dusty Rose Gold Collection, designed to empower women with stylish and functional activewear. The collection, launched on 24 June 2025, features sports bras, leggings, and shorts crafted from ribbed fabric, offering comfort, a flattering fit, and vibrant colours like dusty rose gold and periwinkle blue.

The Ribbed Activewear Collection, a collaboration with New York’s Kynd Society, is tailored for medium to high-intensity workouts. The fabric’s exceptional elasticity ensures flexibility, whilst its compressive fit smooths body contours. The complex knit structure enhances breathability and durability, making the pieces ideal for activities such as HIIT, running, and yoga.

FullOut, part of the Velo Velo group, aims to blend global quality with regional relevance, catering to the Asian market’s specific needs. The brand’s ethos, derived from the dance term “fullout,” reflects a commitment to maximum energy and performance. This is evident in their apparel, which motivates and empowers women, whether at the gym or a casual brunch.

In addition to the new collection, FullOut offers an affiliate programme inviting yoga, Pilates, spin, dance, rowing, climbing, and MMA instructors, as well as professional athletes, to join their community. Participants receive a 25% discount on merchandise and can earn a 15% commission on sales through their unique affiliate links. Customers are encouraged to share their looks on Instagram using the hashtag #GoFullOut for a chance to be featured on FullOut’s page.

The Ribbed Dusty Rose Gold Collection is now available at FullOut and Velo Velo MY, bringing globally recognised activewear to the Asian market.
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Eddid Financial has announced that its Singapore subsidiary, Eddid Financial Singapore Pte Ltd, has been granted a Capital Markets Services (CMS) licence by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). This significant development marks a pivotal step in the group’s international expansion strategy, enhancing its presence in key global markets, including Hong Kong and the US.

The newly acquired CMS licence allows Eddid Financial to offer a comprehensive range of financial services in Singapore, such as dealing in securities and derivatives, forex product financing, and custodial solutions. The group is actively establishing its operations in Singapore by setting up local offices, assembling a dedicated team, and developing a proprietary trading platform. This platform aims to provide seamless access to Singapore equities, US stocks, and global futures, offering a streamlined trading experience.

Dr Jerry Tse, CEO of Eddid Financial, stated, “Securing our CMS licence in Singapore is a key milestone in our global strategy. With strong regulatory foundations in Hong Kong and the US, our entry into Singapore further enhances our ability to serve clients across borders. Singapore’s dynamic financial ecosystem presents exciting opportunities, and we’re eager to bring our global expertise and integrated service model to this vibrant market.”

Looking ahead, Eddid Financial plans to expand into virtual assets, corporate financing, and fund management, driving continued diversification and innovation in its service offerings. This strategic move underscores the group’s commitment to strengthening its global footprint and delivering comprehensive financial solutions across borders.
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Amazon Singapore is set to captivate shoppers with its Amazon Prime Day Maze, a free interactive event at Suntec City Mall from 5 to 6 July. This immersive experience offers a preview of the deals and new product launches ahead of the longest-ever Prime Day in Singapore, running from 8 to 14 July. The maze, designed for all ages, allows visitors to engage in themed challenges, unlocking exclusive deals and exploring Prime membership benefits.

The Amazon Prime Day Maze promises a hands-on exploration of Prime Day offerings, including access to exclusive deals, free and fast shipping, and unlimited streaming with Prime Video. “This year marks our longest-ever Prime Day in Singapore,” said Peter Li, Director – China and Singapore, International Stores at Amazon. “The Amazon Prime Day Maze gives visitors a hands-on way to discover new products and explore Prime Day benefits.”

Visitors can participate in hourly sessions from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM, with the fastest participant in each session winning a $74 (S$100) Amazon Prime Day voucher. Additional interactive stations throughout the venue offer further engagement, with activities such as the Prime Video Puzzle and Data Defenders game.

In addition to the maze, visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences, including a LEGO Play Area and a Prime Day Deals Zone featuring discounts on popular brands. The event also ties into Singapore’s National Day celebrations, with Amazon Fresh offering curated local products and special deals.

As Prime Day approaches, Amazon Singapore encourages shoppers to make the most of the extended event, offering exclusive deals across a wide range of products from local and international brands.
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Seafood Expo Asia, organised by Diversified, is set to take place from 10-12 September 2025 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore. This annual event will bring together seafood suppliers and buyers from across the globe, offering a platform for networking, business growth, and exploring the latest trends in the Asian seafood market.

The expo will feature a diverse range of activities, including seafood tastings, culinary demonstrations, and educational conference sessions. Wynter Courmont, Vice President of Seafood at Diversified, emphasised the event’s focus on connecting global seafood companies with Asian market buyers, stating, “The event offers several onsite opportunities for exhibitors, buyers in the Asian market, and seafood professionals to develop deeper relationships in-person and discover new market opportunities.”

This year’s expo will see participation from seafood companies across the world, including new entrants from Estonia and the United Arab Emirates. National pavilions from China, Estonia, South Korea, and Taiwan will also be present. Notable exhibitors include AquaChile, Blumar Seafoods, and Vinh Hoan Corporation, alongside processing equipment companies like BAADER ASIA PTE LTD and Moon Environment Technology SDN BHD.

Attendees, including key buyers and decision-makers from various sectors, can engage in the Business Matchmaking Programme, facilitating dedicated meetings with suppliers. The event will also host competitions such as the Seafood Excellence Asia Awards and the Oyster Challenge, alongside discussions on aquaculture innovations and supply chain accountability.

For more information and registration details, visit the official Seafood Expo Asia website.
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Singapore’s core inflation rate eased to 0.6% year-on-year in May, down from 0.7% in April, as reported by Nomura’s Asia ex-Japan Daily Research Summary. This decline aligns with expectations and is attributed to falling raw food price inflation. Despite this easing, core-core inflation remained stable, indicating underlying inflationary pressures are unchanged.

Nomura analysts Euben Paracuelles and Charnon Boonnuch maintain their 2025 core inflation forecast at 0.7%, reflecting anticipated easing in labour market conditions. However, they caution that sustained surges in oil prices could present upside risks to this forecast. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has kept its 2025 forecast range unchanged at 0.5-1.5%, though it has highlighted increased uncertainty in the economic outlook.

Headline inflation also saw a slight decrease, dropping to 0.8% from 0.9% in April. This was in line with consensus expectations but slightly below Nomura’s forecast of 0.9%. The decline in headline inflation was primarily due to a reduction in private road transport inflation, which fell to 1.1% from 1.3%, despite an increase in certificate of entitlement (COE) premiums.

The report underscores the complexity of inflation dynamics in Singapore, with various factors such as raw food prices and transport costs influencing the overall inflationary environment. As the year progresses, the interplay between these elements and external factors like oil prices will be crucial in shaping the inflation outlook.
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Singapore-based digital travel platform Agoda has unveiled a curated list of Asia’s best-kept waterfall secrets, inviting travellers to explore nine hidden gems across the continent. From the secluded Thi Lo Su in Thailand to the enchanting Sendang Gile in Indonesia, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences for those seeking to escape the ordinary.

Asia’s diverse landscapes offer a plethora of hidden waterfalls, each providing a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure. Agoda’s list includes destinations like Shiraito Falls in Japan, nestled near Mt Fuji, and the dramatic cascades of Seoraksan National Park in South Korea. These sites are perfect for those looking to connect with nature and uncover lesser-known treasures.

Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President at Agoda, highlighted the allure of these destinations: “Asia’s hidden waterfalls showcase the continent’s incredible diversity and untapped beauty, offering travellers a chance to discover the extraordinary.”

Agoda’s extensive offerings make it easy for travellers to plan their waterfall adventures, with over 5 million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities available. The Agoda mobile app provides the best deals, ensuring a seamless booking experience.

For those eager to explore these natural wonders, Agoda’s guide serves as an invitation to venture off the beaten path and experience the serene beauty of Asia’s waterfalls. With Agoda, the journey to these tranquil escapes is just a booking away.
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