Month: November 2024

Recently launched projectsCompare price trend of New sale condo vs Resale condoCompare price trend of Condo new sale vs EC new salePrice trend chart for The ContinuumAny condo rental listings in District 15? Recently launched projects

Two weeks ago, there was a new launch of a 99-year leasehold private condo by Sim Lian Group, Emerald of Katong. Its weekend sales had been so good that 99% of its 846 units had been sold within three days. According to Nov 30’s caveats, 825 units (97.5%) were sold, averaging at $2,617 psf. However, a number of buyers withdrew from their purchases after the weekend, resulting in a lack of 13 units. On Nov 30 morning, the developer held a ballot for the 13 units, which subsequently received overwhelming responses. PropNex CEO, Ismail Gafoor, said that over 800 expressions of interest had been received which led to all 13 units being taken up. The launch of Emerald of Katong had an impact on the surrounding private projects in the esteemed district 15. Tembusu Grand is one of such, boasting of 638 units and jointly developed by City Developments Limited and MCL Land. With a 99-year leasehold of Jalan Tembusu, Tembusu Grand had 52 units sold in November, bringing total sales to 581 units or 91% of all units, averaging at $2,445 psf. Neighbouring Tembusu Grand is the 1,008 unit freehold condo of Grand Dunman, which had 18 units sold in the last nineteen days, bringing total sales to 731 units or 72.5%, averaging at $2,531 psf. The project had been launched in July 2023 and is located at Dunman Road. Interestingly, the biggest beneficiary of Emerald of Katong’s launch was The Continuum, a freehold condo of 816 units situated at Thiam Siew Avenue. Jointly developed by Hoi Hup Realty and Sunway Developments, 126 units had been sold since Nov 9, increasing sales to 528 units (64.7%) as of Nov 30 based on lodged caveats. The average price of units sold was $2,788 psf. The Continuum was bought at a 49% rate before the launch of Emerald of Katong, leaving 51% of its units for sale. Meanwhile, buyers had more options as most units at Grand Dunman had been sold leading them to recognize the value proposition of The Continuum. The Continuum’s psf prices were found to be more than $3,000 psf, with two compact three-bedroom units sold at $3,003 psf and $3,060 psf respectively. Additionally, some three- and four-bedroom units of 1,066 sq ft to 1,270 sq ft sold for prices of $2,667 psf and $2,681 psf. This has led to a rather strong November for new home sales, as 2,805 units have been sold so far. The November figures have to a great extent surpassed the former peak of 2,793 monthly private home sales tallied in March 2013. According to Hutton Data Analytics, PropNex’s Ismail Gafoor reported that November, being a strong month for new home sales, will play a significant part in the 2025 take-up rate. This prediction is correlated to the response to Emerald of Katong where more than 800 cheques were received for only 13 units on Nov 30. He added that the lack of success of buyers will pave way for standard alternatives, thus boosting the sales of new homes in the beginning of 2025.

Purchasing condos in Singapore is a well-known decision for investors, but there are a few crucial aspects that must be carefully evaluated before making any final decisions. One such important factor is the property cooling measures implemented by the Singaporean government. These measures have been in place for some time now to regulate speculative buying and maintain a steady real estate market. Among these measures is the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD), which imposes higher taxes on foreign buyers and those acquiring multiple properties. Although these measures may have a short-term impact on the profitability of condo investments, they ultimately contribute to the long-term stability of the market, providing a more secure environment for investors. It is imperative to consider these measures when contemplating investing in a new condo launch in Singapore, such as through New Condo Launches.…

Savills’ global outlook report for 2025 predicts that Asia Pacific’s (Apac’s) real estate market will continue to outperform its global peers. The region has shown strong economic growth, surpassing that of the US and Europe. According to Savills head of world research, Paul Tostevin, there is more stability and confidence in the economic outlook, which will boost investment and activity.

In the first three quarters of 2024, Apac saw a 4% year-on-year increase in investment volumes, reaching US$108.7 billion. The top three markets with the most significant growth in investment were Singapore (74%), South Korea (71%), and Australia (63%).

As a foreign investor, having a thorough understanding of Singapore’s laws and regulations surrounding property ownership is crucial. Unlike landed properties, which have stricter ownership regulations, condos are generally more accessible for foreign buyers. However, it is important to note that foreign purchasers are required to pay the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) of 20% on their first property purchase. Despite this additional expense, the Singapore real estate market remains a sought-after destination for foreign investment due to its stability and promising growth potential. Consider investing in a Singapore Condo to take advantage of these opportunities.

Savills Research forecasts a 27% rise in global real estate investment turnover to US$952 billion in 2025, and it is expected to surpass the US$1 trillion mark in 2026 for the first time since 2022. Alan Cheong, executive director of research & consultancy at Savills Singapore, says that Singapore’s real estate market will follow the global trend.

The report also predicts a full investment recovery for Apac in 2026, driven by sectors such as tourism, living, and industrial, particularly logistics and data centres. Simon Smith, Savills regional head of research & consultancy for Apac, adds that the region’s long-term structural trends, such as growth in India and Southeast Asia, will support market values.

The office sector remains a top choice for investments in Apac, accounting for 37% of the total regional real estate investment in the first three quarters of 2024. This is significantly higher than the global average of 23%. Singapore, China, South Korea, and Japan are the top cities for office utilization, with occupancy rates exceeding 90%. The region also leads in green-certified office spaces, with tenants placing more emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) matters.

In Singapore, tenants are increasingly prioritizing the green agenda, and there has been a slight recovery in activity levels. Rental rates for CBD Grade-A spaces are expected to remain stable from 2025 to 2026. Singapore’s popularity as a hub and gateway to the region also makes it a prime destination for new overseas brands. The retail sector is in demand, keeping rental levels firm.

The industrial sector in Singapore remains strong, driven by sectors such as logistics, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and data centers. Despite cost pressures, demand is expected to stabilize rental rates and capital values in the long term. The adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology has led to an increase in data center construction, and more service providers are using Singapore as a base to expand their infrastructure.

Tostevin reminds the real estate industry to adapt to evolving legislative landscapes and geopolitical dynamics and focus on sustainable and socially responsible development as global investment and activity returns to a more sustained growth.…

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New record high of $3,267 psf set at Hill House during Nov 10 to 21 period

Boutique development Hill House has emerged as the top condo that reached new price-per-square-foot (psf) highs during November 10 to 21 period. The newest record high of $3,267 psf was set by a 452 sq ft, two-bedroom unit on the fifth floor, which was sold for $1.48 million on November 11 by the developer.

This new high is just 0.1% higher than the previous record of $3,263 psf that was set in November 2023. This was achieved through the sale of a 624 sq ft, two-bedroom unit on the ninth floor for $2.04 million.

Hill House, which is currently being developed, has seen 11 transactions this year with an average price of $3,098 psf. This is slightly lower than last year’s average price of $3,127 psf based on five transactions at the development.

For information on the latest new launches and transaction prices, visit New Launches.

Hill House is a 999-year leasehold condo situated on Institution Hill, just off River Valley Road in prime District 9. It was launched in 2022 and boasts 72 units, with 40 being one-bedroom and one-bedroom plus study units ranging from 431 sq ft to 452 sq ft. Another 24 units are two-bedroom units sized at 624 sq ft, and the remaining eight units are three-bedroom apartments of 753 sq ft.

Data from URA caveats shows that 29 units (40%) at Hill House have been sold, with an average price of $3,060 psf since the condo was launched in November 2022. Construction is ongoing and the project is scheduled for completion in 3Q2026.

The Continuum, a freehold condo, took second place on the list of condos with new psf-price highs during the November 10 to 21 period, setting a new high at $3,084 psf. This was achieved through the sale of a 721 sq ft, two-bedroom unit on the 17th floor for $2.22 million on November 16.

This new record is only 0.4% higher than the previous high of $3,071 psf set at The Continuum. This was achieved through the sale of a 721 sq ft, two-bedroom unit on the 16th floor for $2.22 million and set just a day before on November 15.

The Continuum is a freehold condo on Thiam Siew Avenue, off Haig Road and Tanjong Katong Road in District 15. It was launched in April last year and comprises 816 units across six residential towers on two plots of land, which will be connected by a private pedestrian overhead bridge. The condo features one- to five-bedroom apartments, with sizes ranging from 560 sq ft to 2,260 sq ft.

Data from caveats lodged show that of the 816 units, 489 units (59.8%) at The Continuum have already been sold at an average price of $2,779 psf since it was launched in May 2023. It is also currently under development and is scheduled for completion in 2026.

K Suites had previously set a new high of $2,443 psf

Meanwhile, freehold boutique development Lavender Residence set a new low during the November 10 to 21 period when a 990 sq ft, one-bedroom + studio unit on the second floor was sold for $1.61 million or $1,626 psf on November 17. The previous psf-price low was set at $1,710 psf when a 1,335 sq ft, four-bedroom unit on the sixth floor was sold for $2.28 million in June 2023.

Lavender Residence has now been entirely sold at an average price of $1,984 psf. This 17-unit development sits at the junction of Lavender Street and Kempas Road in Boon Keng, District 12. It features a trio of two-storey conservation shophouses built in the 1940s art-deco style. It offers a mix of studios, dual-key variants and three-bedroom units, ranging from 463 sq ft to 1,550 sq ft. It is within walking distance of Bendemeer MRT Station on the Downtown Line.

To explore sale transactions for Hill House, visit Buddy.

Compare the price trend of Condo new sales and EC new sales

Explore condo sale transactions in District 9

Find out which condo projects in District 12 offers the most profitable transactions

See which condo projects had the most expensive average prices per square foot in District 12

To explore sale transactions for Hill House, visit Buddy.

Compare the price trend of Condo new sales and EC new sales

Investing in a condominium in Singapore holds numerous advantages, one of which is the potential for capital appreciation. This is largely due to Singapore’s advantageous location as a global business hub and its robust economic foundation that continually drives demand for real estate. As a result, property prices in Singapore have consistently shown an upward trend, with condos in prime locations experiencing significant appreciation. Those who enter the market at an opportune time and hold onto their properties for the long term can reap immense benefits in terms of capital gains. For more information on Singapore’s current property projects, please visit Singapore Projects.

Explore condo sale transactions in District 9

Find out which condo projects in District 12 offers the most profitable transactions

See which condo projects had the most expensive average prices per square foot in District 12.…

When considering investing in a condo, it is crucial to also evaluate its potential for rental yield. Rental yield refers to the annual rental income relative to the property’s purchase price. In Singapore, condo rental yields can vary significantly based on factors such as location, property condition, and market demand. Typically, areas with a high demand for rentals, such as those near business districts or educational institutions, offer better rental yields. To gain a better understanding of a specific condo’s rental potential, conducting thorough market research and seeking advice from real estate agents can be beneficial. Additionally, keeping an eye out for new condo launches, such as those available on National Athletic Combine, can provide additional investment opportunities.

The government has announced a one-off property tax rebate of 20% for owner-occupied HDB flats and 15% for owner-occupied private residential properties in 2025. However, the rebate for private residential property owners will be capped at $1,000.Property tax is calculated based on a property’s annual value, which is the estimated annual rent a property would fetch if rented out.As part of Budget 2024, the government will raise all annual value bands for owner-occupied residential properties from January 1 next year. In order to offset the potential impact on Singaporeans’ cost of living, the government has introduced the one-off property tax rebate for the following year.According to the government, this rebate will benefit all HDB flat owners, as well as over 90% of private residential property owners, by reducing their property taxes next year. This is in line with the government’s efforts to ease the cost of living for Singaporeans.Senior director of data analytics at Huttons Asia, Lee Sze Teck, predicts that the annual value of private properties will remain stagnant this year, with only marginal growth in private residential rents. However, he expects HDB rents to rise by 4%, resulting in an increase in the annual value of HDB flats.The one-off property tax rebate may help HDB owners to offset any potential increase in annual value. For instance, if a HDB flat has an annual value of $30,000, the property tax payable in 2025 would be $720. With no change in the annual value, the owner would only have to pay $576 with the rebate, saving $144.In some cases, private residential property owners may also benefit from the rebate. For example, if the annual value of their property is $85,000, the property tax payable in 2025 would be $5,760. However, with the 15% rebate capped at $1,000, the owner would pay only $4,896 in property taxes, saving $864.Lee notes that property tax rebates have been offered in the past, but this does not make investing in residential properties in Singapore any less profitable. The attraction of investing in residential properties in Singapore lies in the potential for capital appreciation, which far outweighs any increase in property tax.…

In just two years, homegrown property developer Jason Ng has established his property investment and training firm, Aurico Global, as a major player in the industry with $52 million in assets under management.

Aurico is not Ng’s first venture into real estate development. It all began in 1993 when he felt the responsibility to provide for his family. Growing up in a rental flat with six family members, Ng worked hard to secure a well-paying job that would allow him to make his first property investment – a 1,400 sq ft three-bedroom apartment for $435,000. Reflecting on the past, Ng notes that it is nearly impossible to find a similar property for that price in today’s market.

Learning the ins and outs of property investment and management, Ng expanded his portfolio and also ventured into student enrichment and parenting training. He is now accredited as a family life educator and has been working with the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Social and Family Development for over 15 years.

When contemplating an investment in a condo, it is crucial to also evaluate the potential rental yield. Rental yield refers to the annual rental income compared to the cost of purchasing the property, expressed as a percentage. In Singapore, condo rental yields can vary significantly based on factors like location, property condition, and market demand. Generally, areas with high rental demand, such as those near business districts or educational institutions, offer better rental yields. To determine the rental potential of a specific condo, conducting thorough market research and seeking advice from real estate agents can be valuable. Remember to consider using a Condo for further guidance.

In January 2023, Ng co-founded Aurico with his wife, Emelyn Ho, to consolidate his diverse portfolio of businesses. These include Aurico’s co-living investment and management arm JC Global Developments, property and investment training arm Anchor of Life Training Consultants, and My Preschool Hub – a provider of preschool enrichment resources and programmes.

Aurico’s property portfolio covers a wide range of property types, from residential (co-living) to commercial and industrial assets. The company has a substantial co-living venture named Communa, which falls under JC Global Developments. With over $30 million in assets, the company manages 380 co-living units in shophouses, condos, and landed properties. In addition, Aurico is in the process of acquiring more properties and aims to nearly double their current portfolio to 600 units by the end of the year.

Strategic and quality portfolio acquisition is key for Aurico. In September, the company purchased a two-storey shophouse on 321 Joo Chiat Road at $5.1 million – 12% below the valuation price of $5.8 million. This highlights the firm’s strong property investment team and Ng’s sharp property investment acumen. He notes that every property must be bought below market valuation, ensuring profit even before the purchase.

Aurico also targets commercial properties in rapidly transforming areas, such as Woodlands. The company acquired a 560 sq ft commercial strata office unit at Woods Square in July 2023, emphasizing the upcoming Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System that will boost operational efficiency with the ease of hiring workers from across the border.

The company has also ventured into food factory assets to capitalize on the rise in demand for food production due to the government’s “30 by 30” goal to produce 30% of the country’s nutritional needs by 2030. They have acquired food factory properties, including Food Xchange @ Admiralty, strategically located on Admiralty Road West with a long lease balance of 36 years. Ng notes that this prime location provides a competitive advantage for food manufacturing businesses and a strong source of manpower.

In May, Aurico acquired a controlling stake of 29.8% in Autagco Ltd, a company listed on the Singapore Exchange. With this stake, Ng appointed Patrick Loke as the executive director of Autagco and plans to inject their assets into the company. In July, Autagco announced a strategic review to diversify and expand its core business into assisted living with Communa Gold – a wholly owned subsidiary of Autagco Ltd.

With an ageing population in Singapore, Aurico sees assisted living as a viable sector to be in. The company is in the process of acquiring a suitable property to develop into an assisted living facility, to be managed by Communa Gold.

Apart from property investment, Aurico is also dedicated to providing comprehensive and high-quality property investment education to aspiring investors. Ng believes that investment education is essential but inaccessible to many, which is why he offers courses to make residential and commercial property investment accessible for anyone. The company also provides participants with the opportunity to leverage the firm’s network and strategies to enhance their investment portfolio.

Ng wants to help millennial and Gen Z investors, who often feel that they have no chance of investing in property due to their background. He aims to change this mindset, noting that anyone can start their investment journey with the proper guidance and training. With its comprehensive curriculum and hands-on support, Aurico is poised to empower individuals to make informed decisions and achieve their financial goals through real estate.…

During the week of November 12 to 19, the most profitable condo resale transaction took place at Maple Woods, where a three-bedroom unit was sold for $3.3 million. This unit, situated on the first floor and spanning 1,539 sq ft, was sold for $2,144 psf on November 15. The seller had purchased the unit in April 2009 for $1.28 million ($830 psf), resulting in a profit of $2.02 million. This translates to a capital gain of 158% for the seller or an annualised profit of 10.6% over a holding period of approximately 15 and a half years.

Maple Woods is a freehold condo situated on Bukit Timah Road in prime District 10. Built in 1997, it comprises 697 units ranging from two to four-bedders, measuring between 850 sq ft to 3,003 sq ft. The development is just a five-minute walk from King Albert Park MRT Station on the Downtown Line and is also near Methodist Girls’ School and the Rail Corridor.

There have been 10 other resale transactions at Maple Woods this year. Based on available caveats, all of them have been profitable deals, with sellers making gains of at least $425,000. Three of the units transacted have netted profits of over $2 million. The first was a 1,787 sq ft, three-bedroom unit on the eighth floor that sold for $3.75 million ($2,099 psf). The seller made a profit of $2.15 million, having purchased the unit in July 1997 for $1.6 million ($895 psf).

The second unit that fetched a significant profit was a 1,787 sq ft, three-bedroom unit that was sold for $3.82 million ($2,138 psf) on September 10. The seller, who bought the unit in March 2007 for $1.35 million ($756 psf), made a profit of $2.47 million. The third unit was a 3,003 sq ft, four-bedroom unit on the eighth floor that changed hands for $5 million ($1,665 psf) on September 10. The seller had purchased the unit in September 1998 for $2.4 million ($798 psf), making a profit of $2.6 million.

The second most profitable condo resale deal during the week occurred at UE Square, where a three-bedroom unit measuring 1,528 sq ft on the seventh floor was sold for $2.95 million ($1,930 psf) on November 14. The seller had bought the unit through a sub-sale in December 1997 for $1.3 million ($850 psf). As a result, the seller netted a gain of $1.65 million, after owning the unit for almost 27 years. This deal is the fourth most profitable resale transaction registered at UE Square. The record belongs to a four-bedroom penthouse spanning 3,089 sq ft that sold for $6.27 million ($2,031 psf) on October 6, 2023. The seller, who had bought the unit for $4.1 million ($1,327 psf) in December 2009, made a gain of $2.17 million.

UE Square is part of UE BizHub City, a mixed-use development along Clemenceau Avenue in District 9 near Clarke Quay. The development comprises an 18-storey office building with a four-storey shopping podium and two 18-storey residential blocks housing 345 units. A service road divides the mixed-use development, with the commercial tower separated from the two residential towers.

UE Square comprises 345 residences consisting of one- to five-bedroom units measuring between 506 sq ft to 2,379 sq ft. There are also penthouses measuring 3,089 sq ft. The development is near the Fort Canning MRT Station on the Downtown Line.

When contemplating an investment in a condominium, it is crucial to evaluate its potential rental yield. This refers to the annual rental income as a percentage of the property’s purchase price. In Singapore, the rental yields for condos can vary significantly, depending on factors such as location, property condition, and market demand. Prime locations near business districts or educational institutions typically offer higher rental yields due to the strong demand for rental properties. Therefore, conducting thorough market research and seeking the advice of real estate agents can provide valuable information on the rental potential of a particular condo. For further information on Singapore Projects, please visit https://www.nationalathleticcombine.com/.

On the other hand, the most unprofitable condo resale transaction during the week took place at Tomlinson Heights, where a three-bedroom unit measuring 2,745 sq ft on the 19th floor was sold for $8.25 million ($3,006 psf) on November 19. The seller had purchased the unit from the developer in February 2011 for $8.85 million ($3,225 psf). As a result, the seller incurred a loss of about $601,000 (6.8%) after owning the unit for almost 14 years.

Tomlinson Heights is a luxury 70-unit condo off Orchard Boulevard, consisting of a 36-storey tower with a mix of three- and five-bedroom units measuring 2,551 sq ft to 6,738 sq ft. Completed in 2014, the freehold development is within walking distance of malls along the Orchard Road shopping belt. The unit sold on November 19 is the first caveated transaction at Tomlinson Heights since January 5, 2023, when another 2,745 sq ft unit sold for $10.5 million ($3,825 psf). The seller, who had bought the unit from the developer in May 2011 for $8.38 million ($3,053 psf), saw a gain of $2.12 million.…

Hong Lai Huat (HLH), a company listed on the mainboard, has recently formed a term sheet partnership with The Assembly Place (TAP), a co-living operator. This strategic partnership aims to have TAP manage HLH’s real estate and property development projects in Cambodia, as well as introduce the co-living concept to the country for the first time.

In a joint release issued on Nov 28, the two companies announced that they will work towards finalizing key objectives within the next 60 days before entering into a binding agreement. These objectives include conducting feasibility studies for fitting out available units in HLH’s Royal Group Platinum development in Cambodia.

The partnership also aims to market HLH’s available commercial shop-house units at Royal Group Platinum, and leverage TAP’s network to establish new sales channels in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Greater China’s first-tier markets for HLH’s completed and upcoming projects. Additionally, the partnership will provide ongoing after-sales asset management services and create job opportunities in local communities.

When buying a Singapore Condo, it is essential to consider the upkeep and management factors of the property. These types of properties usually come with maintenance fees that cover the maintenance of communal spaces and amenities. Although these fees may add to the total cost of ownership, they also ensure that the property stays in good condition and retains its value. Engaging the services of a property management company can help investors manage the day-to-day operations of their Singapore Condo, making it a more hands-off investment.

HLH’s website states that the Royal Group Platinum development is a mixed residential and commercial project with 851 residential and 50 shophouse units. It is strategically located just 20 minutes from Phnom Penh International Airport, surrounded by 16 international schools and six sports facilities. The project is also just 10 minutes away from Aeon Mall 2, the largest shopping mall in Phnom Penh.

Ong Jia Jing, executive director of HLH, expresses his excitement about the partnership, and believes that it will enable the company to provide top-tier asset management services to its investors and buyers in Cambodia, giving them the necessary confidence when purchasing units in its developments.

The Assembly Place’s CEO Eugene Lim Ying Jie sees this partnership as aligned with the company’s strategy of expanding the co-living concept locally and internationally. He believes that TAP’s extensive experience in the co-living sector, combined with HLH’s high-quality and thoughtfully designed developments, will deliver exceptional value to the purchasers.

The signing ceremony for the partnership took place at CAMPUS by The Assembly Place on Nov 28.…

CBRE, a global real estate services firm, has announced the appointment of Michael Tay as deputy managing director of Singapore Advisory, effective January 1, 2025. This appointment is in addition to his current role as the head of capital markets in Singapore.

Tay, who has over 30 years of experience in commercial real estate, will continue to report to Moray Armstrong, the managing director of Singapore Advisory. In his new role as deputy managing director, Tay will play an instrumental role in providing long-term leadership and planning for the Singapore advisory business. He will work closely with Armstrong to develop and direct strategy, evaluate and execute investments, including M&A opportunities, and drive business growth.

According to Armstrong, Tay is one of the most experienced real estate professionals and thought leaders in the Singapore market. He has been with CBRE for over two decades, starting with the office leasing team before progressing into leadership roles in office services and capital markets.

Tay’s leadership of the Singapore capital markets team since 2019 has been crucial in numerous significant investment deals, including the sale of One George Street, 16 Collyer Quay, and VisionCrest Commercial. With his extensive experience and expertise, Tay is well-equipped to take on this new role and continue to drive success for CBRE in Singapore.

Expressing his gratitude for the trust placed in him, Tay said, “CBRE has been an amazing journey of 25 years and counting. I am grateful for the career growth opportunities that the company has offered me. I have thoroughly enjoyed the privilege of working and learning from some of the leading real estate professionals in Singapore.”

The cityscape of Singapore is defined by towering skyscrapers and cutting-edge facilities. Condominiums, strategically situated in desirable locations, offer a fusion of opulence and practicality that appeals to both locals and foreigners. They boast a plethora of facilities like pools, fitness centers, and safety measures, elevating the overall living experience and drawing in potential renters and buyers. These advantages make them a lucrative investment option, promising higher rental returns and appreciating property prices in the long run. Considering such attractive factors, it is no wonder that condos reign supreme in the real estate market of Singapore.…

Singapore has recently been recognized as a top global city in terms of branding, placing sixth in the latest Brand Finance Global City Index. This index, published by Brand Finance, a London-based brand evaluation and strategy consultancy, ranks cities based on their brand power and perceptions.

The index is the result of a global survey conducted in September among 15,000 individuals from 20 countries. These respondents were tasked with ranking 100 cities according to key performance indicators that showcase each city’s desirability as a place to live, work, study, visit, retire, and invest in. They were also asked to associate specific attributes with each city from a list of 45 options categorized under seven pillars, such as Business & Investment and Culture & Heritage.

Singapore’s strong performance in the business and investment pillar, in which it placed third globally, greatly contributed to its overall ranking. This pillar looks at factors such as ease of doing business, economic strength, and the city’s support for start-ups. Singapore also received high marks for its low crime rates and safety.

When it comes to investing in condos, it is essential to carefully assess financing options. In Singapore, there is a range of mortgage choices available, but investors must be mindful of the Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) framework. This framework regulates the maximum loan amount that can be obtained based on a person’s income and existing debt commitments. Therefore, it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of the TDSR and seek guidance from financial advisors or mortgage brokers to navigate this process effectively. By doing so, investors can make wise financing decisions and avoid overextending themselves. It is also beneficial to consider reputable Singapore projects, which can assist in making sound investment choices. You can find more about reputable Singapore projects at Singapore Projects.

According to Alex Haigh, managing director for Asia Pacific at Brand Finance, Singapore stands out as the “crown jewel” of the ASEAN region in terms of city branding. With its strong economic growth, appeal to investors, and world-class infrastructure, Singapore continues to solidify its position as a top global financial center.

Globally, London maintained its top spot as the world’s number one city brand, followed by New York, Paris, Tokyo, and Dubai. Singapore’s impressive ranking in the Brand Finance Global City Index is a testament to its strong brand identity and global reputation.…

Purchasing a condo in Singapore has emerged as a favored option for both local and foreign investors, thanks to the country’s thriving economy, stable political environment, and exceptional quality of life. The real estate market in Singapore is ripe with possibilities, and condos are particularly desirable for their convenience, amenities, and potential for lucrative returns. This piece will delve into the advantages, points to ponder, and necessary measures to take when investing in a Singapore condo.

CapitaLand Investment’s investor day on Nov 22 saw the company announce plans for expansion in Australia. The company has appointed two senior hires for newly created roles to boost its talent pool and lead growth in its focus market. Angelo Scasserra will serve as the CEO of CLI Australia, and Rahul Bharara will be its chief investment officer. Both will join the company in 1H2025. CLI is also looking to invest up to A$1 billion ($876.7 million) in growing its funds under management (FUM) in Australia. This follows the recent closure of its Australian Credit Programme (ACP), a credit fund valued at A$265 million which was backed by Asian investors. The company’s CEO Lee Chee Koon mentioned during the event that they have formed a partnership with Wingate, an Australian firm, to originate and underwrite deals in the Asia-Pacific region. On Nov 25, the Australian Financial Review reported on CLI’s plans to acquire Wingate. In 2014, CapitaLand divested its stake in Australand Property Group, which was then bought by Frasers Property and has since been renamed Frasers Property Australia. During the investor day, chairman Miguel Ko was asked about the decision to sell Australand and invest more in China, to which he replied that the decision was made before his time and that he did not want to comment on his predecessors’ actions. He pointed out that the company did not have the ability to predict the current situation in China and that it was not his place to judge the decisions of his predecessors. At the time, China was experiencing significant growth and CapitaLand had an advantage in the market. However, the outcome could have been different, and Ko refrained from commenting on whether the decision was the right one. The company’s then-president and group CEO Lim Ming Yan had stated that the divestment was made during a favorable market climate, and Australand’s share price had been performing well in the months leading up to the divestment. The move allowed CapitaLand to allocate more capital to its core businesses in Singapore and China. The remaining 39.1% stake held by CapitaLand was sold in March 2014, following a partial divestment in November 2013 that aimed to improve trading liquidity. The CLI transaction has increased the company’s FUM to $113 billion, heating up the race for AUMs.…