Industry News

The Capital Group ESG Global Study 2025 reveals that whilst global adoption of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategies has slightly declined from its peak, it remains robust, particularly in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. The study, which surveyed 1,130 global investors, highlights that 97% of existing APAC investors plan to maintain or increase their ESG allocations in the next year.

Globally, ESG adoption stands at 87%, a slight decrease from the 90% recorded in 2023 and 2024. Despite this, APAC leads in engagement with asset managers on nature-related issues, with 71% of respondents involved. Additionally, 68% of APAC investors have invested or plan to invest in thematic funds addressing nature-related issues.

The study also notes a significant increase in ESG approaches within private markets, with 48% of global respondents now applying these strategies—the highest since the study’s inception in 2021. Key investment themes identified include energy transition, clean water, and health, with six in 10 investors expressing strong conviction in these areas.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a focal point, with 73% of investors identifying its energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions as top ESG risks. Despite these concerns, 56% believe AI could drive innovation in energy transition.

Jessica Ground, Global Head of ESG at Capital Group, stated, “This year’s ESG Global Study highlights the enduring role of ESG in the investment process as investors continue to evolve their approach.”

Knight Frank Singapore has announced the sale of three prime strata properties, providing a rare opportunity for investors. The properties include an industrial canteen at Premier@Kaki Bukit, a two-storey HDB shophouse at 150 Bishan Street 11, and shop units within International Plaza. Each property is available for individual purchase through an Expression of Interest exercise closing on 2 December.

The industrial canteen at Premier@Kaki Bukit spans approximately 12,303 sq ft and is leased to a single operator. It features nine food stalls and a drink stall, attracting a steady flow of patrons. The property is priced at $10.5m (approximately $853 per square foot), and is eligible for foreign purchase without Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty.

The HDB shophouse at 150 Bishan Street 11, located in a densely populated residential area, offers a ground floor minimart and vacant upper living quarters. Priced at $3.4m (or $2,164 per square foot), it is also open to foreign buyers, though the upper floor incurs Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty.

The shop units at International Plaza, situated in Singapore’s CBD, consist of four adjoining units totalling approximately 1,066 sq ft. With a guide price of $3m (or $2,814 per square foot), these units are zoned for commercial use and do not attract Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty.

Tania Ong, Senior Manager at Knight Frank Singapore, noted, “Investor confidence has strengthened with a more favourable interest rate environment, and we are observing more activity across the strata-titled market as properties achieve a positive carry.”

These properties highlight the diverse opportunities within Singapore’s strata market, appealing to both end-users and investors seeking resilient yield performance.

Aster and Lubrizol have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore strategic collaboration opportunities in Singapore and the wider region. This partnership combines Aster’s integrated refinery and petrochemical operations with Lubrizol’s innovation-driven capabilities to advance diversified energy pathways, develop high-performance lubricants and speciality chemical solutions, and support Singapore’s low-carbon transition.

The MoU sets a framework for joint studies and initiatives aimed at driving product innovation and strengthening value chains. By leveraging Aster’s operational experience and Jurong Island’s strategic position, the collaboration seeks to create new growth opportunities for sustainable chemical development in Asia.

Chan Win Sim, Aster’s Commercial Director, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, “We continue to invest in growth and innovation, strengthening strategic resilience across our portfolio to power growth, connect industries and uplift communities.” Henry Liu, Lubrizol’s Asia Pacific Vice President, added, “This MoU represents a strategic move to strengthen supply chain resilience to deliver high-performance, next-generation products.”

The collaboration is expected to address the evolving lubricant landscape, shaped by technological advancements, tightening environmental regulations, and increased digitalisation. Both companies aim to support the region’s transition towards a sustainable future, enhancing Singapore’s role as a hub for advanced chemical technologies.

As Singapore pushes towards an AI-driven economy, a new study by General Assembly reveals significant challenges in AI skills and leadership readiness. Despite growing confidence in AI, many organisations in Singapore have yet to move beyond superficial AI implementation. The research indicates that whilst 62% of leaders attended AI training in 2025, only 47% of companies offer tailored AI programmes for leadership teams.

The study underscores the importance of leadership-driven AI integration to maintain competitiveness. Sima Saadat, Singapore Country Manager at General Assembly, stated, “AI is fundamentally changing how organisations operate – and leadership readiness is now the key differentiator.” The findings suggest that Singapore’s next leap in AI depends on executive-level clarity and sector-specific upskilling.

Key insights from the research include a rising demand for hands-on AI experience, yet the local talent pool remains limited. Entry-level positions are declining as companies seek candidates with proven skills or supplement their teams with AI tools. Additionally, 36% of leaders believe AI could replace their roles, although most encourage AI adoption at work.

General Assembly emphasises that success in AI requires robust learning frameworks beyond technical staff. Daniele Grassi, CEO of General Assembly, noted, “Leadership championship and continuous learning are critical to maximising AI’s impact.” The report calls for a shift from technical training to a culture of continuous learning, starting at the top, to secure Singapore’s place in the AI revolution.

StraitsX, a leader in stablecoin-native settlement, has announced plans to expand its payment network to support real-time, FX-transparent cross-border settlements between Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, and Japan. This expansion, set to go live in Q2 2026, will integrate with Thailand’s KBank via its Q Wallet and establish regional settlement frameworks in Taiwan and Japan, linking consumer and institutional payment ecosystems.

The initiative aims to create a unified payment corridor across Southeast and Northeast Asia, allowing users to transact with real-time settlement and transparent FX. Key partnerships include KBank and ORBIX Technology, enabling real-time QR interoperability between Thailand and Singapore using XSGD for instant cross-border settlements. This will allow travellers to use familiar applications like Q Wallet or GrabPay, with merchants receiving local currency instantly.

The expansion will also enhance network connectivity with regional wallets in Taiwan and Japan, broadening the reach of stablecoin rails. Tianwei Liu, CEO and Co-Founder of StraitsX, stated, “By embedding XSGD into established consumer rails like GrabPay and Q Wallet by KBank, we’re showing how trusted digital assets can deliver real-time settlement, transparent FX conversion, and interoperability at scale.”

This development marks a significant step in transforming traditional payment corridors into seamless, borderless value exchange networks. The expanded network will support cross-border transactions in XSGD, maintaining compliance with local regulations whilst preserving familiar payment experiences. As Asia leads the charge in stablecoin-powered payments, StraitsX is poised to play a pivotal role in this evolving landscape.

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has awarded Therme Group Singapore the tender to develop a wellness attraction at Marina South Coast, aligning with STB’s Tourism 2040 vision. The project, set to open by 2030, will span 4 hectares and is expected to draw 2 million visitors annually, with nearly half being international tourists. This development will be Singapore’s first dedicated wellness attraction, enhancing the Marina Bay precinct’s appeal.

Therme Group Singapore’s proposal was selected for its innovative wellness concept, which includes thermal pools, saunas, steam baths, and water slides, catering to diverse demographics. The attraction will be situated alongside notable landmarks such as Gardens by the Bay and Marina Barrage, further enriching the area’s offerings. Additionally, a public park will be developed, linking Marina Barrage to the wellness site.

The global wellness tourism market is projected to grow by 10.2% to US$1.35t by 2028, highlighting the sector’s potential. Jean Ng, Assistant Chief Executive of STB, stated, “Our vision is to establish Singapore as a leading urban wellness haven through a world-class facility that offers transformative wellness experiences for visitors and locals alike.” This initiative supports Singapore’s goal of achieving $47b to $50b in tourism receipts by 2040.

Lendlease has announced the opening of Moomoo Singapore’s first physical stores in its malls, including 313@somerset, Jem, and Parkway Parade. This move marks a significant milestone as Moomoo, a leading online trading platform, transitions into brick-and-mortar retail, reflecting the growing trend of fintech brands expanding their presence beyond digital platforms.

The new stores, set to launch this year, will occupy 939 square feet at 313@somerset and 739 square feet at Jem. These locations will offer an immersive experience for customers, combining Moomoo’s digital investment platform with in-person customer service. Erika Chiang, Chief Marketing Officer for Southeast Asia at Moomoo, stated, “By combining the scale and innovation of digital with the personal touch of in-store engagement, we are creating spaces where investing becomes tangible, interactive, and inspiring.”

Additionally, Lendlease is facilitating a pop-up concept at Parkway Parade, expected to open later this year. This initiative allows Moomoo to refine its retail strategy and enhance its customer engagement during the launch phase. Jenny Khoo, Head of Retail and Workspace Management at Lendlease, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting its alignment with Lendlease’s commitment to offering innovative retail experiences.

This collaboration underscores Lendlease’s strategic role in supporting experience-led retail concepts and diversifying its tenant mix to meet evolving consumer needs. As Moomoo ventures into physical retail, it aims to redefine how people experience investing in Singapore, bridging the gap between digital and physical interactions.

Watsons, Singapore’s leading health and beauty retailer, has unveiled the nation’s first retail pharmacy eConsultation service, a digital platform aimed at enhancing healthcare accessibility. Available via the Watsons website and mobile app, this service allows users to consult with certified pharmacists for free on various health issues, including minor ailments and medication guidance.

The eConsultation service offers personalised advice, complete with price transparency and product recommendations, which can be ordered online for home delivery. Irene Lau, Managing Director of Watsons Singapore & New Markets, stated, “We’re bringing the trusted expertise and personalised care of our pharmacists directly to you.”

The service addresses common health concerns such as coughs, fevers, digestive disorders, and skin conditions. Consultations are secure, confidential, and encrypted, ensuring customer privacy. The process involves visiting the Watsons platform, registering, and speaking with a pharmacist. Customers can then purchase recommended products online.

Watsons offers three delivery options: express within three hours, same-day evening delivery, and next business day. The service operates Monday to Friday, 12:00 PM to 5:30 PM, excluding public holidays, and requires a valid photo ID for pharmacy-only medications. This initiative marks a significant step in making healthcare more accessible and convenient for Singaporeans.

Affiliate marketing is becoming a crucial growth strategy for brands in Singapore, as revealed by a new report from impact.com. The Global State of Affiliate Marketing Report 2025 highlights that 75% of brands in Singapore have boosted their affiliate marketing investment over the past year, seeking cost-effective and measurable growth solutions amidst rising marketing costs.

The report, which surveyed over 1,500 marketers, creators, and publishers across eight markets, including Singapore, shows a significant shift towards affiliate marketing. In Singapore, 61% of brands now attribute more than 21% of their total revenue to affiliate marketing. Additionally, 65% of brands reported stronger returns on ad spend, and 70% experienced revenue growth in the past 12 months.

A notable trend is the increasing focus on creator partnerships, with nearly half of the brands planning to allocate 25–50% of their affiliate budgets to creators next year. Influencer-led affiliate growth is expected to rise by 37 percentage points, the highest among the surveyed markets. Sarah Ann Lim, Global Partnership Manager at Castlery, noted, “As customer acquisition costs keep rising, creators have become one of our most effective performance channels.”

The report also indicates a shift in partnership models, with brands moving from flat fees to hybrid reward structures that combine commissions with performance-based incentives. Despite challenges such as budget constraints and data privacy concerns, Singaporean marketers are building sophisticated ecosystems that connect brands with creators and media publishers.

Adam Furness, Managing Director APJ at impact.com, stated, “Brands in Singapore are reallocating budgets based on what is driving measurable, cost-effective growth.” As affiliate marketing continues to demonstrate its value, it is poised to become a central pillar in the digital strategies of Singaporean brands.

Financial wellbeing has emerged as the leading life priority for 57% of Asia Pacific consumers, surpassing health and wellbeing (49%) and family and relationships (48%), according to a new report by Personetics. The company, a global leader in Cognitive Banking services, has expanded its reach to 25 million users in the region.

The survey, which included 2,000 consumers with a quarter from Asia Pacific countries such as Australia, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam, highlights the growing importance of financial wellbeing. Notably, Gen Z respondents in the region, aged 17-27, show a higher prioritisation of financial wellbeing at 65%, with 85% expressing strong interest in related services.

A significant 80% of Asia Pacific consumers indicated they would switch banks to receive more timely financial advice, with Gen Z leading this trend. This underscores the need for banks to offer personalised, AI-driven insights to retain and attract customers, particularly younger demographics.

Udi Ziv, CEO of Personetics, stated, “This survey is further evidence of what forward-looking banks in the region already understand: that they cannot afford to be complacent about consumer loyalty and that AI-driven personalisation is critical to customer satisfaction and business growth.”

Despite a lower trust level in financial advice from banks compared to Europe and North America, Asia Pacific consumers are increasingly embracing AI-driven financial insights, with many seeking features like double-billing alerts and savings nudges. Personetics continues to innovate with products like PrimacyEdge, aimed at enhancing customer loyalty and financial engagement.