Industry News

Singaporean office workers are calling for landlords to enhance their office environments with more community events, lifestyle amenities, and vibrant spaces, according to a recent survey by EXPIScore. The survey, conducted in the first half of 2025, highlights a growing expectation for office buildings to offer initiatives that foster communication and community, alongside on-site amenities such as food and beverage (F&B) options and wellness facilities.

The survey, which gathered responses from over 1,000 office workers across various age groups and sectors, found that 87% of respondents value communication and community-building initiatives. Additionally, 95% expect on-site F&B, retail, and wellness amenities. Younger workers, particularly those aged 21 to 34, are leading this trend, with 97% expressing a desire for such amenities.

Dr. Marigold Kimura, founder of EXPIScore, noted, “Singapore office landlords now face rising expectations for experience-driven office destinations that foster a richer experience and sense of community at work.” The survey’s findings have been used to develop the EXPIScore rating criteria for human-centric customer experience in office buildings.

Despite the demand, landlords face challenges such as space constraints and management issues. However, they are exploring creative solutions, including partnerships with co-working operators and revising their F&B offerings to meet these evolving expectations. Peter Holland, EXPIScore’s Executive Adviser, emphasised the importance of adapting to these demands, stating, “Proactive office landlords will see healthy rental growth and occupancy rates.”

The Urban Redevelopment Authority’s schemes, extended to 2030, aim to encourage the redevelopment of older office buildings into mixed-use projects, further supporting the transformation of Singapore’s office landscape into vibrant, community-focused environments.

Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP) has unveiled the AI Nexus Lab, a pioneering initiative designed to facilitate digitalisation and artificial intelligence (AI) adoption for Singapore’s Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). Built on Amazon Web Services (AWS), the lab will serve as a one-stop solution for businesses to address manpower challenges and enhance AI development skills through real-world projects.

The AI Nexus Lab is set to benefit over 1,000 students annually from NYP’s School of Information Technology, integrating AWS AI and machine learning solutions into their curriculum. This hands-on approach allows students to apply their classroom knowledge directly to company projects, bridging the gap between education and industry needs.

NYP aims to reach 500 SMEs within the next five years, offering pathways such as generative AI training workshops. In collaboration with the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCCI), the lab has already identified 64 use cases from their SME network for prototype development. This initiative highlights NYP’s commitment to equipping both students and businesses with the necessary tools to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.

The AI Nexus Lab represents a significant step in making AI technology accessible to smaller businesses, potentially transforming how they operate and compete in the market. As the lab continues to develop, it is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of AI adoption in Singapore’s SME sector.

Global law firm Reed Smith has announced the appointment of Dr. Gregory Xu as a banking and finance partner in its Singapore office. Xu, formerly with Stephenson Harwood, brings over 15 years of experience in high-value, cross-border transactions across sectors such as transportation, trade, life sciences, energy, and technology. His expertise includes green and sustainability-linked lending, as well as multi-jurisdictional insolvency-related enforcement and restructuring.

Xu will join Reed Smith’s Transportation Industry Group, where his knowledge of ship and aviation finance is expected to strengthen the firm’s capabilities in Singapore and the broader Asia-Pacific region. Richard Hakes, chair of the group, stated, “Gregory is an outstanding addition to our team, bringing deep knowledge of ship finance, aviation finance, and banking throughout Southeast Asia.”

Xu expressed enthusiasm about joining Reed Smith, citing the firm’s global platform and market-leading finance practice as major attractions. “I’m delighted to be joining such a highly collegiate team with a clear strategy for growth in the region,” he said.

Praj Samant, Reed Smith’s Asia-Pacific managing partner, welcomed Xu, noting his arrival bolsters the firm’s offerings in strategically important sectors. Xu is recognised as a leading practitioner by legal directories such as Chambers Asia-Pacific and The Legal 500.

Reed Smith continues to be a leading adviser to financial institutions, leveraging its expertise across multiple industries to support complex transactions and regulatory matters. Xu’s addition is expected to enhance the firm’s ability to provide seamless, cross-border support to clients in dynamic industries.

The Competition Commission of Singapore (CCS) is currently reviewing a proposed acquisition involving two major players in the electric vehicle charging industry. This evaluation aims to ensure that the merger does not adversely affect competition within the sector, which is crucial for maintaining fair market practices and consumer choice.

CCS is inviting public feedback until January 16, 2026 on the proposed acquisition by SP Mobility Pte. Ltd.  of Strides YTL Pte. Ltd. CCS accepted a joint application from the Parties on December 22, 2025 for a decision on whether the proposed transaction would be anti-competitive.

The acquisition under scrutiny involves companies that are pivotal in the development and deployment of electric vehicle charging infrastructure in Singapore. As the nation pushes towards a more sustainable future, the role of such companies becomes increasingly significant. The CCS’s assessment will focus on whether the merger could potentially lead to a monopoly or reduce the competitive landscape, which could impact pricing and innovation.

The CCS has invited stakeholders and the public to provide feedback on the potential implications of the acquisition. This consultation process is part of the commission’s commitment to transparency and thorough evaluation of mergers and acquisitions that could have far-reaching effects on the market and consumers.

The outcome of this review could set a precedent for future mergers in the rapidly growing electric vehicle sector. As Singapore continues to advance its green initiatives, ensuring a competitive market for electric vehicle infrastructure remains a priority.

Knight Frank Singapore has announced the sale of a residential development site at 17 Seraya Road, located in the highly desirable District 15. The site spans approximately 11,956 square feet and is zoned for residential use under the 2025 Master Plan, with a Gross Plot Ratio of 1.4. This zoning allows for the potential development of a boutique residential project comprising 13 units, each averaging 100 square metres, pending approval from relevant authorities.

The site is situated in a tranquil, low-rise residential enclave, offering a blend of privacy and accessibility. It is conveniently located near East Coast Park, providing residents with easy access to nature and recreational activities. Additionally, the site is close to East Coast Road, a bustling commercial area with trendy cafés and lifestyle amenities. Established retail destinations such as i12 Katong, Katong Shopping Centre, and Parkway Parade are also nearby, enhancing daily convenience.

The area is well-served by reputable schools, including Haig Girls’ School and Tanjong Katong Primary School within a 1-kilometre radius, and CHIJ (Katong) Primary School, Kong Hwa School, and Tao Nan School within two kilometres. The site is easily accessible via major expressways and is a short walk from Marine Parade MRT station.

Mary Sai, Executive Director of Capital Markets at Knight Frank Singapore, highlighted the site’s appeal, stating, “Homeownership in District 15 remains highly sought after, underpinned by its lifestyle appeal, accessibility to the Central Business District and other parts of Singapore, and proximity to reputable schools.”

The guide price for the site is S$19m, equating to approximately S$1,157 per square foot per plot ratio, inclusive of land betterment charges. The public tender for 17 Seraya Road will close on 3 February 2026 at 3.00 PM.

Millennium Hotels & Resorts (MHR) has announced a strategic loyalty partnership with Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), the custodian of the Taj Hotels & Resorts brand. This collaboration, unveiled as MHR celebrates 30 years in global hospitality, aims to enhance travel and stay benefits for members worldwide through the integration of MHR’s MyMillennium and IHCL’s Taj InnerCircle of NeuPass programme.

Headquartered in Singapore, MHR is recognised for its award-winning portfolio across Asia-Pacific, Europe, the UK, the US, and the Middle East. This partnership marks a significant step in MHR’s strategy to expand its international presence and strengthen its loyalty ecosystem. The collaboration is set to deliver greater value, choice, and recognition to travellers across key markets.

Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and CEO of IHCL, commented on the partnership, stating, “IHCL’s iconic brand Taj joining hands with Millennium Hotels & Resorts unlocks meaningful synergies within a global loyalty network. Through this collaboration, the integration of MyMillennium with Taj InnerCircle enhances the member experience.”

The partnership reflects MHR’s ongoing evolution over three decades, as it continues to forge alliances with like-minded hospitality leaders. By combining their loyalty programmes, both MHR and IHCL aim to offer enhanced benefits and rewards to their members, thereby increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, such partnerships are crucial for maintaining competitiveness and offering customers more comprehensive and rewarding experiences. This collaboration is expected to set a precedent for future alliances in the sector.

Assure Healthcare Holdings, a subsidiary of SingWealth Holdings, has officially opened its second clinic, Assure Family Clinic Woodlands, located at 132 Marsiling Rise. This expansion is part of the group’s strategy to provide quality and comprehensive healthcare services to more families and individuals in Singapore.

The new clinic offers a range of services, including general consultations, chronic disease management, vaccinations, preventive health screenings, and minor procedures. This development follows the success of their first clinic in Bukit Merah, extending their reach to residents in northern Singapore.

Chief Medical Officer of Assure Healthcare Holdings, Joanne Koay, highlighted the significance of the new clinic, stating, “The launch of the Assure Family Clinic in Woodlands marks an important milestone in our growth journey. Our goal is to bring compassionate, reliable care closer to the communities we serve.”

The clinic is led by General Practitioner Vikneswaran V. Paranjothy, who has specialised training in occupational medicine, dermatology, aesthetics, and andrology. His approach focuses on holistic and patient-centred care, ensuring comprehensive service to the community.

Jeffrey Chow, Executive Director and Group CEO of SingWealth Holdings, emphasised the broader vision of the company, noting, “Healthcare is a cornerstone of SingWealth Holdings’ vision to provide holistic solutions across health, wealth, and legacy planning.”

The opening of this clinic underscores Assure Healthcare’s commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility and supporting the well-being of Woodlands’ residents.

Singtel has launched Singapore’s first 50Gbps XGS-PON fibre broadband technical trial, designed to prepare homes and businesses for the integration of AI and emerging technologies. This initiative supports ultra-immersive augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality experiences, as well as cloud gaming and AI-enabled smart systems, anticipating their widespread availability in the next three to five years.

The trial is a response to the growing global demand for bandwidth, driven by the adoption of ultra-high-definition streaming, immersive media, and AI-driven applications. According to Deloitte’s 2025 Connected Consumer Survey, there is a significant shift towards integrating remote work, virtual services, and immersive media into daily life. Singtel’s trial will assess the network capabilities required to support these data-intensive environments.

Ng Tian Chong, CEO of Singtel Singapore, emphasised the importance of this development, stating, “Digital technologies are deeply embedded in everyday life in Singapore.” The trial positions Singapore at the forefront of fibre broadband innovation, aligning with the nation’s Digital Connectivity Blueprint to build a robust digital infrastructure.

The 50Gbps XGS-PON trial offers several benefits, including ultra-high-definition entertainment, cloud gaming, support for home businesses, telemedicine, and AI-driven smart homes. Singtel’s history of innovation includes the world’s first nationwide standalone 5G deployment and network slicing for cloud gaming, reinforcing its commitment to delivering advanced connectivity solutions.

As Singtel continues to innovate, the trial marks a significant step towards future mass deployment, ensuring that Singapore remains a leader in digital connectivity.

Suresh Nair, Jennifer Chih, and Bryan Tan, three partners from Mayer Brown PK Wong & Nair Pte. Ltd., have announced their departure to form a new independent law practice in Singapore. The newly established firm, Nair, Jen & Tan LLC, will specialise in litigation, restructuring and insolvency, corporate, and employment matters.

The move is a strategic decision by the trio to create a platform dedicated to contentious, advisory, and crisis-driven mandates. This comes amidst increasing restructuring activities and complex commercial disputes in Singapore and the Asia-Pacific region. The partners bring extensive experience in advising multinational corporations, financial institutions, and senior executives on high-value commercial disputes and cross-border restructuring.

Suresh Nair is recognised for his leadership in corporate litigation and employment disputes, whilst Jennifer Chih brings nearly three decades of expertise in corporate governance and regulatory strategy. Bryan Tan’s practice includes arbitration and disputes involving technology and digital assets.

In a joint statement, the partners expressed their commitment to providing specialised, senior-level advice: “We are establishing an independent practice that allows us to deepen our work in core areas where clients increasingly require specialised, senior-level advice. This move enables us to offer a more agile and conflict-free platform whilst continuing to deliver the depth and quality our clients expect.”

Nair, Jen & Tan LLC is headquartered at SGX Centre 1 in Singapore, positioning itself as a key player in the region’s legal landscape.

GDS Global Limited, a specialist in commercial and industrial door and shutter solutions, has successfully raised S$4.08m through a share placement. The placement, involving 60 million shares at S$0.068 each, was fully subscribed by prominent institutional investors, including Asdew Acquisitions and ICH Capital Pte Ltd. SAC Capital Private Limited acted as the placement agent.

The funds will be used to pursue larger projects both locally and internationally, enhance export sales and marketing capabilities, and provide working capital for the proposed acquisitions of Asiabuild Metal Engineering Pte. Ltd. and Integrated Aluminium Pte. Ltd. These acquisitions aim to diversify GDS’s revenue base and capture new growth opportunities in the structural steel, metal works, and architectural aluminium sectors.

Non-Executive Non-Independent Chairman Tang Hee Sung commented, “Building on the positive momentum from our recent return to profitability, the successful completion of the placement marks another important milestone for the Group and we are pleased to welcome new shareholders to our GDS family.”

GDS reported a 70.6% increase in revenue to S$22.79m for the financial year ending 30 September 2025, with a significant rise in gross profit to S$7.52m. The company maintains a healthy cash position of S$6.59m with no borrowings, positioning it well for future growth.