Industry News

ADDX, a prominent digital investment platform, has announced its collaboration with Tokai Tokyo Securities Co. Ltd (TTSC) to expand its institutional technology solutions through a white-label platform. This initiative allows financial institutions to deploy their own tokenised digital investment platforms more swiftly and cost-effectively by leveraging ADDX’s cloud-native technology.

The white-label solution provides a comprehensive digital infrastructure that supports tokenisation, custody, issuance workflows, investment lifecycle management, and platform operations. This enables institutions to customise their product offerings in line with specific strategies and regulatory requirements, whilst significantly reducing the complexity and cost of building digital asset capabilities from scratch.

TTSC highlighted the benefits of the partnership, stating, “Building digital asset capabilities from the ground up can be resource-intensive. ADDX’s white-label infrastructure enables us to accelerate time-to-market whilst optimising capital allocation, allowing us to focus on delivering enhanced value to our clients.”

Inmoo Hwang, Group Managing Director at ADDX, noted, “Tokenisation is not just about putting an instrument on-chain; it’s about designing a market structure that can stand up to real-world regulatory and operational requirements.”

This collaboration underscores ADDX’s strategic focus on providing scalable, capital-efficient technology solutions to support the evolution of digital investment platforms globally. ADDX, headquartered in Singapore, has been approved by the Monetary Authority of Singapore as a recognised market operator and serves accredited investors across more than 50 countries.

LHN Group has commenced FY2026 with robust occupancy rates and expanding business operations, according to a recent announcement. The group’s Coliwoo co-living portfolio in Singapore has grown to over 3,000 rooms, achieving an impressive occupancy rate of 96.5% as of 31 December 2025. Additionally, occupancy rates for their industrial and commercial properties remain strong, ranging from 86% to 90%.

The company has also introduced new service offerings in its Facilities Management and Energy sectors, further diversifying its business operations. The car park portfolio has expanded to 105 sites, comprising nearly 28,500 lots across Singapore.

Kelvin Lim, Executive Chairman of LHN Limited, stated, “We have started FY2026 on a firm footing with strong occupancy rates across most of our space optimisation properties and continued contract momentum in our Facilities Management Business.” He highlighted the joint venture for redeveloping the 680 Upper Thomson Road property as a significant step in their Property Development strategy, allowing participation in larger-scale projects whilst managing risk prudently.

Looking ahead, LHN Group is focused on executing its Coliwoo growth roadmap, which includes the upcoming launches of Coliwoo Midtown and 159 Jalan Loyang Besar. The company is also committed to disciplined capital recycling to optimise returns for shareholders.

This strategic expansion and high occupancy rates underscore LHN Group’s strong market position and its commitment to growth and innovation in the property sector.

Tealium has announced its launch on the AWS Singapore Region, providing Asia-Pacific (APAC) enterprises with a robust infrastructure to manage customer data locally and in real-time. This move supports compliance with Singapore’s Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) and emerging ASEAN data protection frameworks, crucial as AI adoption accelerates across the region.

The AWS Singapore Region enables Tealium to offer low latency and real-time performance for AI-driven customer engagement and analytics. Jeff Lunsford, CEO of Tealium, emphasised the importance of trust in the AI era, stating, “Launching on the AWS Singapore Region enables customers to better govern, control and activate their data locally — helping them meet regulatory obligations whilst still moving quickly with AI and digital innovation.”

Tealium’s platform allows businesses in sectors such as financial services, retail, healthcare, and education to securely collect, transform, and activate customer data without it leaving the region. This ensures compliance without sacrificing speed or flexibility. Peter Murray, APJ head of GTM, noted, “With Tealium now live on the AWS Singapore Region, customers in the region have more choice in how they innovate with data and adopt agentic solutions, whilst meeting stringent data residency requirements.”

As a member of the AWS Partner Network, Tealium holds multiple AWS certifications, including the GenAI Competency. The launch is part of Tealium’s strategy to expand its footprint in the APAC region, supporting enterprises in navigating digital transformation and complex regulatory landscapes. The Tealium instance on the AWS Singapore Region is available immediately, offering a full suite of customer data capabilities.

Cushman & Wakefield has announced the sale of The Living Collection, a portfolio of seven freehold living-sector assets located in Singapore’s River Valley, Balestier, and Rangoon Road areas. The properties, which include serviced apartments, a hotel, and student hostels, are being offered through an Expression of Interest exercise closing on 13 April 2026.

The portfolio is strategically divided into three clusters, each situated in well-established city-fringe precincts. The River Valley cluster is particularly attractive to expatriates and long-stay professionals due to its proximity to Orchard Road and the Central Business District. Whilst, the Balestier cluster benefits from its location near HealthCity Novena, attracting healthcare professionals and corporate tenants. The Rangoon cluster is positioned to capture demand from students, being close to educational institutions like Singapore Management University.

Sophia Lim, Director at Cushman & Wakefield, highlighted the portfolio’s appeal, stating, “The Living Collection is arguably the largest portfolio of freehold hospitality and living assets currently available for sale.” The properties are fully operational, generating immediate cash flow, with options for sale-and-leaseback arrangements at a 3.5% gross yield.

Shaun Poh, Executive Director of Capital Markets at Cushman & Wakefield, noted the portfolio’s potential for investors seeking exposure to Singapore’s expanding living sector. The guide price for the entire portfolio is set at S$218.5m, with individual properties also available for purchase. Interested parties are encouraged to submit their bids by the deadline.

A recent report from Braze’s 2026 Customer Engagement Review highlights a significant disparity between marketers’ confidence in AI and consumers’ perceptions in Singapore. Whilst 93% of marketers believe AI enhances their understanding of customer needs, only 53% of consumers agree, revealing a 40-point gap. This data, drawn from 6 billion global user profiles and surveys of 4,000 consumers and 2,200 marketing executives across 17 countries, underscores the challenges in AI adoption.

Singaporean marketing leaders report that 67% have seen improved customer satisfaction and 60% have noted higher retention due to AI-driven engagement. However, 57% cite complex compliance and governance as barriers to AI adoption, 54% express concerns over potential customer backlash or data misuse, and 46% note hesitation among leadership and employees. Additionally, 49% worry that AI could erode the human touch in brand content, despite 64% expecting AI to enhance customer experience through personalisation.

In Singapore’s digitally advanced and privacy-conscious market, the focus may need to shift from rapid AI deployment to transparent and responsible usage to create genuine value for customers.

Embed Financial Group Holdings (EFGH), a Singapore-based financial internet infrastructure company, has appointed Woon Tai Ho as an independent director as it strengthens its governance framework ahead of a proposed US listing. Woon, a pioneer in Asian broadcasting and a member of the Singapore Media Industry Hall of Fame, previously served as an independent adviser to EFGH. His appointment comes as the company prepares for a significant transition, having entered into a Business Combination Agreement with WinVest Acquisition Corp, valuing EFGH at approximately $425m.

Woon’s extensive experience in media strategy and public trust is expected to contribute significantly to EFGH’s board, which is led by founder and executive chairman Dennis Ng. Ng emphasised the importance of strong independent oversight, stating, “The calibre of our Board reflects the seriousness with which we approach governance.”

The board also includes Munya Chiura, an expert in fintech expansion across Africa; Cecily Ng, a leader in enterprise technology and digital transformation; and Goh Theng Kiat, experienced in marketing communications and business management. Each member brings a wealth of expertise, aiming to provide independent perspectives and rigour as EFGH approaches its listing on a major US stock exchange.

EFGH focuses on embedding financial services into everyday experiences, driving financial inclusion across Africa and Asia. The company’s commitment to building a diverse and independent board underscores its dedication to long-term value creation and investor confidence.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) has announced the launch of three new initiatives aimed at enhancing the country’s aviation workforce. These initiatives, which will be co-funded by CAAS, are designed to reduce the time required for graduates to obtain professional licences, improve workplace environments, and support career development for newcomers in the industry. They are the first to utilise CAAS’ $200m OneAviation Manpower Fund, part of a larger $1 billion investment announced in March 2025.

With global air traffic expected to double by 2040, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, Singapore is poised to seize these opportunities. The aviation sector currently employs over 60,000 workers, and the opening of Terminal 5 is expected to create more jobs, including in emerging fields such as data science and sustainability. To support this growth, CAAS is enhancing recruitment efforts through local aviation fairs.

One of the key initiatives involves integrating professional training with undergraduate education, reducing the time graduates need to become work-ready. This will be achieved by streamlining curricula and adopting new instructional technologies. CAAS will collaborate with educational institutions and industry partners to ensure that training and licensing requirements are met without compromising safety and quality.

Additionally, CAAS plans to improve workplace environments at Changi Airport and Changi Airfreight Centre. A study, set to begin in April 2026, will explore enhancements to infrastructure, transport accessibility, and worker amenities, with a focus on high-impact improvements.

To further support career development, CAAS will introduce a mentorship scheme in collaboration with the NTUC Aerospace and Aviation Cluster and key employers. This programme aims to facilitate skills transfer and help new entrants navigate their career paths within the aviation sector.

Further details on these initiatives will be released throughout the year.

Marco Polo Marine has successfully raised S$21m through a private placement, drawing interest from prominent institutional investors such as Areca Capital, Asdew Acquisitions, and Lion Global Investors Ltd. The funds will be used to support the company’s expansion in the energy transition sector across Asia.

The placement, managed by Maybank Securities Pte. Ltd., highlights the market’s confidence in Marco Polo Marine’s strategic direction. Sean Lee, CEO of Marco Polo Marine, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “We are delighted with the strong support for our private placement, which reflects a clear endorsement of our vision and strategy.”

This capital injection will enable Marco Polo Marine to pursue value-accretive projects, reinforcing its position as a significant player in the regional energy transition. The company aims to deliver sustainable, long-term value to its shareholders.

Aditya Laroia, CEO of Maybank Securities, noted the strong investor response as a testament to the quality of Marco Polo Marine’s business. “This placement is a testament to the quality of Marco Polo Marine’s business and its growing relevance within Asia’s energy transition story,” he said.

The successful fund-raising marks a pivotal step for Marco Polo Marine as it continues to expand its influence in the offshore marine sector, aligning with the broader energy transition narrative in Asia.

Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Adventure has arrived at its new home port in Singapore, marking the first time the company has stationed a ship in Asia. The ship was greeted with a water salute and fireworks at Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore, setting the stage for a new era in cruise holidays for the region. The Disney Adventure will embark on its maiden voyage on 10 March 2026, offering three- and four-night sailings designed for families and guests of all ages.

The Disney Adventure aims to bring Disney’s renowned storytelling to life at sea, featuring world-class entertainment, immersive dining, and unique accommodations. Joe Schott, president of Disney Signature Experiences, stated, “The arrival of the Disney Adventure in Singapore marks a significant milestone in our global expansion, introducing Disney cruising to Asia for the very first time.”

This development is part of Disney Cruise Line’s broader expansion strategy, which includes plans to grow its fleet to 13 ships by 2031. Singapore, already a leading cruise hub in the Asia Pacific, is expected to benefit significantly from this partnership. The Disney Adventure’s five-year commitment is anticipated to boost fly-cruise demand and enhance Singapore’s tourism and maritime sectors.

Melissa Ow, Chief Executive of the Singapore Tourism Board, noted, “Disney Cruise Line’s decision to homeport their newest ship in Singapore is a testament to our appeal as a premier cruise destination.” The ship will offer themed areas, regional cuisines, and exclusive retail experiences, further enriching the cruise experience for travellers.

Maybank Singapore has announced a one-off ex-gratia payment of S$1,250 to eligible junior employees, following its FY2025 earnings release. This initiative aims to support staff most affected by rising living costs, reinforcing the bank’s commitment to employee well-being. Alvin Lee, Country CEO and CEO of Maybank Singapore, highlighted the dedication of employees during challenging times, stating, “This ex gratia payment underscores our appreciation and our commitment to uplifting colleagues who feel the effects of day to day expenses more acutely.”

The payment is part of Maybank’s ongoing efforts to provide meaningful and sustained support to its workforce. By maintaining an above-market individual support amount, first introduced last year, the bank continues to focus on offering tangible assistance where it is most needed. This move aligns with Maybank’s ROAR30 strategy, which emphasises workforce development, capability strengthening, and fostering a culture guided by its mission of Humanising Financial Services.

As Maybank progresses with its strategic goals, the bank remains committed to standing by its employees, ensuring they are equipped to navigate the challenges ahead. This initiative not only recognises the contributions of its staff but also aims to alleviate the financial pressures they face.