Industry News

Artificial intelligence is increasingly central to advertising, yet a new report by MiQ highlights a significant gap between AI usage and readiness among marketers. The study, “The AI Confidence Curve,” surveyed 3,169 marketers across 16 countries, including Singapore, Japan, Thailand, and Australia. It found that whilst 72% of marketers globally plan to expand AI use in the next year, only 45% feel confident in their ability to apply it effectively.

Singapore emerges as a leader in AI adoption, with 86% of marketers intending to use AI more, the highest among surveyed countries. However, only 47% are fully confident in their AI knowledge. In contrast, Japan shows higher confidence, with 51% of marketers feeling knowledgeable, yet only 66% plan to increase AI usage. Thailand reports the lowest intention to expand AI use, with just 45% planning to do so.

MiQ JAPAC CEO Jason Scott noted, “The study demonstrates the varying levels of confidence and uptake in AI, although Southeast Asia has emerged as a transformative region when it comes to embracing AI.” The report identifies knowledge gaps and inadequate measurement systems as key challenges. In Singapore, only 38% of marketers are confident in their team’s ability to optimise performance against marketing KPIs.

The report suggests that to bridge the readiness gap, marketers should invest in AI literacy and integrate AI into performance measurement. MiQ’s Chief Marketing Officer, Jordan Bitterman, emphasised the opportunity to close the 27-point gap between usage and readiness, stating, “We’re at the start of a journey that will ultimately see us all move up the curve as we apply AI to more of our mission-critical work.”

Banking Circle S.A.’s subsidiary, BC Payments Pte. Ltd. (BC Payments Singapore), has been awarded a Major Payment Institution (MPI) licence by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). This development allows BC Payments Singapore to facilitate seamless and compliant cross-border payment flows for banks, fintechs, and global payment providers in Singapore.

The MPI licence is a pivotal step in Banking Circle’s global expansion strategy. Mishal Ruparel, Chief Commercial Officer of Banking Circle, highlighted the significance of this achievement, stating, “Securing the MPI licence from MAS is a crucial progression in Banking Circle’s mission to build the payments infrastructure for the global financial economy.” He emphasised Singapore’s role as a strategic hub for Asia Pacific operations due to its progressive regulatory framework and status as a leading global financial centre.

Marc Chua, CEO of BC Payments Singapore, noted the company’s growth since its inception in 2022, stating, “Singapore’s proximity to fast-growing digital economies enables us to stay ahead of client needs, and this achievement marks just the beginning of our journey to further strengthen cross-border payment connectivity.”

BC Payments Singapore will leverage Banking Circle’s global clearing infrastructure to connect international financial institutions with local clearing rails through a single API. The MPI licence underscores Banking Circle’s commitment to enhancing the reach and reliability of real-time global payments.

This move positions BC Payments Singapore to support clients’ global payment needs and accelerate instant, low-cost payments in the region, marking a significant milestone in the company’s journey to enhance cross-border payment connectivity.

TE Capital Partners, a Singapore-based real estate investment manager, has partnered with Dash Living, a rental housing platform backed by Hillhouse, to acquire a prime residential property in Minami Azabu, Minato Ward, Tokyo. The joint venture will see TE Capital holding a majority stake, whilst Dash Living will manage the property and retain a minority interest.

The property, to be rebranded as Dash Living Minami Azabu, is strategically located within a seven-minute walk from Shirokane–Takanawa Station and close to Azabu-Juban Station, offering excellent connectivity across Tokyo. The ten-storey building, situated in the prestigious embassy district, comprises 130 units and spans approximately 8,400 square metres. It is surrounded by foreign embassies and international schools, making it a highly desirable location.

Dash Living plans to refurbish the units with premium finishes and contemporary furnishings, targeting professionals and expatriates seeking quality and convenience. The property will offer flexible living solutions, catering to the growing demand for high-quality accommodation in Tokyo.

Terence Teo, Managing Partner of TE Capital Partners, stated, “This acquisition reinforces our conviction in Tokyo’s residential sector, particularly the robust demand for furnished flats.” Aaron Lee, CEO of Dash Living, added, “Dash Living Minami Azabu marks our largest asset in Japan to date and represents a significant milestone for the group.”

The acquisition highlights the resilience of Tokyo’s residential market, driven by stable economic fundamentals and an influx of foreign professionals. The property is expected to benefit from sustained occupancy and long-term rental growth.

The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has announced the results of the government land sales (GLS) tender for a site on Bukit Timah Road, adjacent to the Newton MRT interchange station. The site, which is expected to yield approximately 340 private homes, attracted eight bids from developers, reflecting strong interest in the Core Central Region (CCR). The top bid of $566.3m, equivalent to $1,820 per square foot per plot ratio (psf ppr), was submitted by HH Investment, surpassing the second-highest bid by 12.3%.

The Bukit Timah site is part of the proposed new housing supply under the URA Draft Master Plan 2025, which aims to introduce more housing and mixed-use projects in the Newton neighbourhood. The site’s prime location near Orchard Road and the Newton MRT station has made it particularly appealing to developers.

Wong Siew Ying, Head of Research and Content at PropNex, noted that the robust upturn in the CCR primary market this year and the strong demand for well-connected projects near MRT stations have likely driven the interest. “The return of buyer interest in CCR homes—particularly well-located ones near to amenities—and the easing interest rates have boosted market confidence,” Wong said.

The top bid land rate of $1,820 psf ppr is the highest for a GLS site since a residential plot in Cuscaden Road was sold for $2,377 psf ppr in May 2018. With this rate, the average selling price for the new project could potentially exceed $3,600 psf. The resurgence in the CCR sub-market, particularly in the latter half of 2025, may have encouraged developers to bid actively, with 1,865 new CCR private homes sold by 2 November 2025, compared to 378 units in 2024.

Global citizens residing in Singapore are being urged by Schroders to adopt forward-looking strategies to protect and grow their wealth amidst rising global risks. According to Max White, Managing Director at Schroders, the focus is shifting from chasing returns to safeguarding assets, especially for high-net-worth individuals in Asia. The Schroders Global Investor Insights Survey 2025 indicates that wealth preservation is becoming a priority due to macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainties.

Singapore, known for its political stability and financial connectivity, offers a conducive environment for wealth management. However, challenges such as currency volatility, overlapping tax obligations, and dormant pension pots necessitate a strategic approach to wealth structuring. Schroders suggests building inflation-resilient portfolios by synchronising risk profiles, portfolio allocations, and currency exposure. This approach aims to preserve purchasing power in real terms, crucial for globally mobile professionals.

Key components of an inflation-resilient strategy include equities with pricing power, real assets like property and commodities, and alternative investments such as private equity. Currency diversification is also essential for expatriates managing cross-border income and expenses. Additionally, tax-efficient structures like offshore funds and insurance wrappers can enhance long-term value by deferring taxes on investment returns.

Singapore’s wealth management ecosystem provides sophisticated tools, a transparent tax environment, and geopolitical stability, making it an attractive base for managing global wealth. By consolidating financial holdings and leveraging Singapore’s advantages, global professionals can simplify complexity and ensure long-term financial security.

Condition Monitoring Technologies (CMT) has significantly expanded its market presence across Asia’s major shipping hubs through an enhanced partnership with Singapore’s Junma Services. This collaboration has already sparked increased customer interest in Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. The partnership marks a strategic shift for CMT from a passive presence to an active, growth-oriented approach in the Asia-Pacific region.

Since appointing Junma Services in July last year to cater to Singapore’s demand, CMT has increased its market share in the Chinese and Hong Kong maritime sectors. “Junma’s ability to navigate the cultural and regulatory landscape has been invaluable,” said CMT Managing Director David Fuhlbrügge. The partnership has led to increased enquiries and established strong networks with shipowners, managers, and service providers.

Junma is now actively introducing CMT’s full product range to technical managers and ship operators in Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. This hands-on approach has already yielded results, building on a successful campaign in Singapore last year that secured an order for over 40 PREMET X units. “The collaboration with Junma has opened doors to new customer contacts in Hong Kong and Mainland China,” Fuhlbrügge added.

The demand for condition monitoring and fuel-oil analysis solutions is high as operators seek efficiency and compliance in competitive markets. CMT’s cooperation with Junma contrasts with its previous approach, which involved a less active distributor. The new partnership represents a decisive shift to a more engaged strategy.

UniFuels Holdings Limited, a Singapore-based global provider of marine fuel solutions, has announced the opening of a new office in Limassol, Cyprus. This marks the company’s first foray into the European market, complementing its existing offices in Dubai and Shanghai, which also began operations this year. The move is part of UniFuels’ strategy to expand its international presence and strengthen its connections with European customers.

The Limassol office is strategically positioned to leverage the Mediterranean’s evolving energy infrastructure and its proximity to key shipping routes. Alan Tan, Senior Vice President of Commercial at UniFuels, emphasised the importance of being close to customers and major trading hubs, stating, “Our new Limassol office highlights our ethos of being closer to our customers and major trading hubs where we believe proximity to our working partners and key shipping routes matters.”

UniFuels aims to enhance its operational agility and provide localised expertise, ensuring reliable fuel delivery across high-demand corridors. The company’s presence in Limassol will enable it to access real-time market intelligence and adapt its pricing strategy to local price signals and inventory trends. Additionally, Cyprus serves as a gateway between traditional fuel markets and the green shipping corridor, aligning with UniFuels’ commitment to providing low-emission fuel solutions.

With this expansion, UniFuels is poised to support the maritime industry with innovative fuel solutions and assist customers in achieving operational efficiency and sustainability goals. Established in 2021, UniFuels continues to grow its global footprint, backed by a diverse team and an extensive supply network.

A recent report by Prudential Singapore reveals that 83% of Singaporeans have delayed seeking medical care in the past year, prioritising work commitments and avoiding being a financial burden on their families. The Economist Impact report, titled “Patient Voices: Singapore Towards More Informed and Seamless Care,” highlights that many individuals also face uncertainty about where to seek help and worry about healthcare costs.

The report indicates that 61% of respondents feel they lack sufficient information to make informed treatment decisions, whilst 60% are unsure where to go when health issues arise. Dr Sidharth Kachroo, Chief Health Officer at Prudential Singapore, emphasised the need for a well-understood and accessible healthcare system, stating, “Support is available in both public and private sectors to provide patient choice and access to care.”

Initiatives like Healthier SG aim to clarify the healthcare journey by emphasising the role of family doctors. Dr Sarah Lu of Raffles Medical Group noted, “By actively managing our health with the help of our Family Physicians, we reinforce the focus for preventive, proactive, and personalised care.”

Cost remains a significant concern, with 23% of respondents citing it as a reason for delaying care. Nidhi Swarup, founding chairperson of the Alliance of Patients Organisations Singapore, highlighted the need for better education on planning for unexpected medical expenses.

Prudential’s report underscores the importance of improving patient experiences by providing clarity on costs and care pathways, ensuring Singaporeans can confidently seek necessary medical attention.

Singapore’s real estate market experienced a significant upswing in investment sales during the third quarter of 2025, according to the latest report by Realion’s ETC Research. The investment sales surged by 82.5% quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) to $7.4b (S$10.1b), primarily fuelled by Government Land Sales and developers’ preference for sites with ample amenities.

Office rents in the Central Region remained stable, with the Urban Redevelopment Authority’s rental index easing slightly by 0.1% QoQ. Central Business District (CBD) Grade A rents held steady at $7.20 (S$9.80) per square foot per month. However, island-wide office occupancy saw a minor decline of 0.2 percentage points to 94.8%, attributed to negative absorption in decentralised areas.

In the industrial sector, property prices increased by 0.6% QoQ, led by single-user factories, although this was a slower growth compared to the 1.4% in the previous quarter. Overall industrial occupancy rose by 0.3 percentage points to 89.1%, driven by warehouse demand. Industrial rents grew by 0.5% QoQ, a moderation from the 0.7% growth in Q2 2025.

The retail sector benefited from an influx of 4.5 million international visitors in Q3 2025, spurred by holidays and Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) events. Retail rents are anticipated to rise modestly, with leasing activity focusing on relocations, downsizing, and space optimisation due to rising costs and changing consumer preferences.

In the residential market, private home prices increased by 0.9% QoQ, with notable rises in both landed and non-landed properties in the Core Central Region (CCR) and Outside Central Region (OCR). Transaction volumes surged by 44.4% QoQ to 7,404 units, driven by higher primary sales, whilst rents edged up by 1.2% amid steady leasing activity.

These developments highlight a dynamic period for Singapore’s real estate market, with significant investment and growth across various sectors.

Wisma Atria has launched its first Barbie-themed Christmas event, “Upon Iridescent Wings,” running from 7 November to 26 December 2025. The event features a Barbie Couture Creations Exhibition at the L1 Indoor Atrium, showcasing over 70 unique Barbie dolls dressed in sustainable couture by local artists and designers. The exhibition, a collaboration with Jian Yang’s #FlushableFashion and Dawn Koh’s #wingsofchildhood, includes contributions from students at LASALLE College of the Arts and University of the Arts Singapore. Select dolls will be auctioned, with proceeds benefiting HCSA SPIN through the Community Chest.

The event also includes the Wings of Childhood Iridescent Angel Wings Workshops, held every Saturday until 20 December. Participants will create angel wings for Barbie dolls using upcycled materials, guided by paper sculpture artist Dawn Koh. Their creations will be displayed on LED screens on the L2 Outdoor Christmas Tree.

Brandon Teo, Deputy General Manager of Wisma Atria, stated, “Barbie symbolises imagination and hope, and has inspired generations to dream fearlessly and express themselves freely. These qualities underpin our Christmas theme ‘Upon Iridescent Wings’.”

The L2 Outdoor Space is transformed into a winter wonderland, featuring a 6-metre iridescent Christmas tree. Shoppers can participate in the Capture the Magic Instagram Photography Contest for a chance to win Wisma Atria e-vouchers. The event also introduces seven new brands to the mall, offering exclusive promotions and rewards throughout the festive season.