Industry News

So Drama Entertainment and FLY Entertainment have announced a strategic partnership aimed at elevating media and entertainment content in Singapore. This collaboration, revealed on 25 June, combines the creative strengths of both companies to produce compelling, locally resonant content, starting with Kakee Originals. This series is available on So Drama’s newly rebranded app, Kakee.

The partnership is a commitment to homegrown storytelling, featuring talents from FLY’s esteemed roster, including Allan Wu, Carla Dunareanu, and Irene Ang. Audiences can enjoy series such as “See You There,” “Then & Now,” and the upcoming “The Office Survival Guide.”

Beyond casting, the partnership includes co-investment in content, brand collaborations, and talent development. FLY will provide top-tier talent production support and customised training for So Drama’s talent pool, enhancing the quality and reach of their productions.

Melvin Kuek, Executive Director at So Drama, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “The chemistry between So Drama and FLY promises fresh possibilities for talent, brands, and bold new content.” Irene Ang, Founder and CEO of FLY Entertainment, added, “We’re championing Singaporean stories and putting local talent exactly where it belongs—in the spotlight.”

FLY Entertainment has also partnered with digital casting platform IAmCasting to discover vibrant personalities for Kakee Originals. This move reflects FLY’s commitment to digital innovation and shaping the future of talent discovery.

The Kakee app, available for free download, offers users rewards for engaging with a wide range of content, including music streams and exclusive videos.
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Din Tai Fung, the renowned Taiwanese restaurant celebrated by the Michelin Guide, has unveiled its new elevated dining concept at WEAVE @ Resorts World Sentosa. The opening on 25 June 2025 marks the brand’s 28th restaurant in Singapore, managed by BreadTalk Group, which also oversees Din Tai Fung outlets in the UK and Thailand.

The 250-seater venue introduces Din Tai Fung’s first cocktail bar in Asia, featuring a menu of classic favourites alongside new creations exclusive to Resorts World Sentosa. Guests can enjoy unique experiences such as Xiao Long Bao making workshops, tea etiquette sessions, and cocktail pairings. The restaurant also includes a retail space offering Taiwanese merchandise and Ready-To-Heat products.

Highlighting the cocktail menu are three signature drinks inspired by the characters in Din Tai Fung’s name, each priced at $30. These include “Din,” a floral and fruity cocktail, “Tai,” a tropical blend symbolising peace, and “Fung,” a spiced creation representing abundance. Accompanying these drinks are bar bites like Taiwanese Fried Chicken and Crispy Battered Squid.

The culinary offerings extend to innovative dishes such as Steamed Beef Tenderloin Xiao Long Bao and Premium Lobster Dry Noodle. Din Tai Fung also pays homage to Singapore’s heritage with Steamed Yuzu Coconut Buns and Steamed Kaya Buns.

The restaurant’s design blends traditional Taiwanese architecture with modern luxury, featuring artworks by renowned international artists. To celebrate the opening, customers can enjoy a complimentary serving of Taiwanese Fried Chicken with a minimum spend of $68 until 19 August 2025.
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Global law firm Linklaters has released its June 2025 Asia Financial Regulatory Update, spotlighting significant legislative changes in Hong Kong and Singapore that are set to reshape the financial landscape. These developments, which include new regulations for stablecoins and corporate governance, are crucial for fintech, banking, and capital markets sectors.

In Hong Kong, the Legislative Council has passed the Stablecoins Bill, establishing a licensing regime for fiat-referenced stablecoin issuers, effective from 1 August 2025. This move aligns with international standards, enhancing the digital asset regulatory framework. Additionally, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has initiated consultations on stablecoin supervision and anti-money laundering (AML) requirements, with feedback due by 30 June 2025. The HKMA has also provided guidance for banks to implement the revised FX Global Code, focusing on mitigating settlement risk and enhancing transparency.

Meanwhile, Singapore’s Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has announced the formation of a Corporate Governance Advisory Committee to review the Code of Corporate Governance for listed companies. This review aims to bolster corporate governance practices. Furthermore, MAS has proposed amendments to margin requirements for capital market services licence holders and plans to streamline prospectus requirements to broaden investor outreach for initial public offerings (IPOs).

These regulatory updates are pivotal as they aim to align with global standards and address the evolving needs of the financial markets in Asia. As these changes take effect, businesses operating in the region will need to adapt to the new regulatory environment, potentially impacting their operations and compliance strategies.
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Elivity, a leader in wellness solutions, has unveiled a groundbreaking oral spray aimed at combating chronic sleep deprivation in Singapore. With more than 54% of Singaporeans sleeping less than the recommended seven hours a night, the need for effective sleep aids is pressing. Elivity’s new Sleep Regeneration Oral Spray, featuring advanced NANOBOOST technology from Germany, promises to deliver a fast-acting and efficient solution.

The oral spray utilises a unique delivery system that ensures a precise 1mg dose of melatonin and passionflower is absorbed directly through the mouth. This method bypasses digestive acids, which can destroy up to 90% of active ingredients in traditional tablet forms. This innovation is designed to help busy Singaporeans achieve the deep, restorative sleep necessary for improved recovery, cognitive function, and long-term vitality.

Elivity’s introduction of the first science-backed longevity oral sprays to Asia marks a significant step in addressing the sleep challenges faced by many in the region. The company is committed to changing the perception of sleep from a luxury to a necessity, particularly in Singapore’s fast-paced and demanding environment.

The launch of this product highlights the importance of innovative health solutions in urban settings, where lifestyle demands often compromise essential rest. As Elivity continues to expand its offerings, the potential for improved sleep health in Singapore looks promising.
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The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has revealed its Draft Master Plan 2025, outlining Singapore’s development strategy for the next 10 to 15 years. This forward-looking blueprint includes plans to introduce approximately 6,000 new homes in the Greater one-north area, specifically in the Dover-Medway neighbourhood, and 5,000 homes around Mediapolis. Additionally, the Newton and Paterson areas are set to receive 5,000 and 1,000 new dwelling units, respectively.

The plan also highlights the transformation of Bukit Timah Turf City, which is expected to yield 15,000 to 20,000 new homes. This area will feature residential plots, commercial spaces, and amenities such as a school and healthcare facilities. The former Singapore Racecourse site in Kranji is earmarked for 14,000 new homes, whilst Gillman Barracks and a site near the future Keppel MRT station are also set for residential development.

PropNex CEO Ismail Gafoor described the Draft Master Plan 2025 as “bold, forward-looking and exciting,” noting its potential to rejuvenate neighbourhoods and build vibrant communities. He highlighted the zoning changes in areas like Greater one-north and the mixed-use developments planned for Newton and Paterson as key elements that will cater to diverse housing needs and stimulate developer interest.

The plan also includes updates for Pulau Brani, which is designated for sports and recreation, aligning with the Sentosa-Brani Master Plan to enhance leisure and tourism offerings. Overall, the Draft Master Plan 2025 aims to decentralise urban growth, create vibrant work-live-play environments, and maintain Singapore’s status as a globally liveable city.
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Sophos, a global leader in cybersecurity solutions, has unveiled its sixth annual State of Ransomware report, revealing that half of Singaporean companies have opted to pay ransoms to regain access to their data. This figure, although lower than the 63% recorded in 2024, highlights the ongoing struggle businesses face against ransomware attacks.

The report, based on a survey of IT and cybersecurity leaders across 17 countries, shows that whilst 50% of Singaporean companies paid the ransom, only 53% managed to fully recover within a week. This marks a significant decline from the 77% recovery rate seen in 2024. Additionally, 22% of companies took between one to six months to recover, up from 14% the previous year.

Data encryption remains a critical issue, with 53% of ransomware attacks in Singapore resulting in encrypted data, slightly above the global average of 50%. Despite this, all affected organisations managed to recover their data, either by paying the ransom or using backups. However, the use of backups has decreased, with only 46% of companies relying on them, down from 58% in 2024.

On a positive note, the report highlights a decline in both ransom payments and recovery costs. The median ransom payment in Singapore has dropped from $760,000 in 2024 to $365,565 in 2025. Similarly, the average cost of recovery, excluding ransom payments, has decreased from $2.20 million to $1.54 million.

The findings underscore the need for improved cybersecurity measures and negotiation strategies, as Singaporean companies paid a median 94% of the ransom demand, higher than the global average of 85%. As ransomware threats continue to evolve, businesses must enhance their preparedness to mitigate the impact of such attacks.
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The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has released its Draft Master Plan 2025, aiming to elevate housing standards and improve urban landscapes in Singapore. The plan marks a shift from previous frameworks by focusing on the future needs of Singaporeans, including fostering healthier lifestyles, supporting an ageing population, and addressing climate change challenges.

The new Master Plan introduces a diverse array of housing options, allowing residents to choose environments near city centres, schools, or parks. This approach ensures better connectivity with essential amenities, such as schools and healthcare facilities, enhancing convenience and quality of life. The plan also emphasises creating homes with access to sea, river, and park views, whilst preserving heritage buildings and cultural sites.

Significant developments include the expansion of the One-North precinct, where approximately 6,000 public and private homes will be constructed. This expansion aims to attract workers and businesses, supporting industries like biomedical sciences and technology. In the Newton and Orchard Road areas, 5,000 new private residences will be developed, with an integrated development above Orchard MRT station.

The Jurong Innovation District will see a transformation with the introduction of Business-White plots, integrating non-industrial elements and enhancing amenities. This change is expected to attract more businesses and workers, boosting occupancy rates and rental yields.

Changi Airport’s redevelopment as a hub for land, air, and sea transport will rejuvenate Changi Business Park, attracting more tenants. Additionally, a new sub-regional centre in Bishan will decentralise office spaces, encouraging companies to move outside the central business district and increasing housing demand in the area.

These initiatives aim to create a balanced, sustainable living experience for all Singaporeans, regardless of age or budget, whilst improving overall well-being and convenience.
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Le Dîner en Blanc, the world-renowned white-on-white pop-up soirée, is set to make a grand return to Singapore on 6 September 2025 after a decade-long hiatus. This year’s event marks a historic collaboration with luxury champagne brand Moët & Chandon, a first in the event’s 35-year history. The soirée, strategically timed between Singapore’s National Day and the Formula 1 Grand Prix, promises an evening of elegance and shared artistry.

Chiang Yee, appointed by the event’s founder Sandy Safi, will lead this landmark edition. “This isn’t just a return; it’s a renaissance,” said Yee, highlighting the event’s aim to reimagine timeless elegance through a contemporary lens. Supporting Yee are Dr Clemen Chiang, who introduced the event to Asia in 2012, and Nicole Yee, founder of women’s platform CozyCot, who will oversee fashion and beauty partnerships.

Sandy Safi, CEO of Le Dîner en Blanc International, expressed pride in the Singapore edition, noting its significance in Asia. Julian Quintero, General Manager of Moët Hennessy Diageo Singapore, added, “This collaboration beautifully marries the art de vivre of France with our commitment to curating elevated unforgettable moments.”

The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, a five-star luxury hotel steeped in heritage, will serve as a backdrop to the event’s contemporary flair. The guest list will expand to 3,000 attendees, maintaining the event’s traditions of secrecy, equality, and shared artistry. Further announcements, including participating maisons and special guest appearances, will be revealed ahead of the official media launch in July.
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Singapore stocks continue to be a cornerstone for retail investors, with more than 70% of them intending to maintain or increase their exposure, as revealed by Moomoo Singapore’s 2H2025 Retail Investor Sentiment Survey. Conducted in April 2025 with nearly 1,500 participants, the survey highlights the strategic importance of Singapore stocks amidst ongoing macroeconomic challenges, inflation, and geopolitical uncertainties.

The survey underscores the confidence investors have in Singapore’s economic fundamentals and policy environment. Gavin Chia, CEO of Moomoo Singapore, noted, “Singapore’s stock market continues to be a pillar of stability for local investors.” Conservative investors, in particular, view the local market as a defensive anchor, prioritising capital preservation over aggressive growth.

Whilst Singapore remains a safe haven, some investors are exploring opportunities abroad. Four in 10 investors are shifting their focus to markets like Hong Kong, seeking potential short-term gains. Despite this, only 30% of respondents expressed optimism about the global market outlook for the latter half of 2025, indicating a cautious approach.

The survey also highlights the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in investment strategies. Over 70% of affluent investors with portfolios exceeding $200,000 utilise AI tools for portfolio management. High-net-worth individuals, in particular, show a strong trust in AI-generated recommendations, with half of them relying on these tools for decision-making.

As retail investors adapt to technological advancements, Moomoo Singapore aims to support this shift by providing actionable insights and educational tools, ensuring investors remain resilient in a rapidly changing world.
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The Singapore Department of Statistics has reported a mixed performance in the Services Producer Price Indices for the first quarter of 2025.

Notably, the indices showed an increase for several sectors, including Postal and Courier Services, which rose by 4%, Telecommunications Services by 0.5%, Computer Consultancy and Information Services by 0.4%, and both Cargo Handling and Warehousing & Storage by 0.3%.

Conversely, the indices fell for Sea Freight Transport by 7.3%, Freight Forwarding by 2.8%, and Accounting Services by 0.7%.

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