Month: November 2024

The recently launched Emerald of Katong by Sim Lian Group saw an impressive turnout and strong sales over the weekend, with 99% of its 846 units snapped up during the launch. The 99-year leasehold project, located at Jalan Tembusu, achieved an average price of $2,617 psf with 97.5% of its units sold as of Nov 30.Launched over the course of three days, the development’s sales success has received positive responses from buyers and property experts alike. However, there was a shortfall of 13 units due to buyers backing out of their purchases in the days following the launch. This prompted the developer to hold a balloting session on the morning of Nov 30, which saw all 13 units being taken up as a result of over 800 expressions of interest received.The launch of Emerald of Katong has also created a positive ripple effect on neighbouring projects in District 15, particularly within the East Coast area. Adjacent to Emerald of Katong is the Tembusu Grand, a joint development by City Developments Limited (CDL) and MCL Land. The project has seen sales of 52 units since the start of November, bringing its total sales to 581 units so far, achieving an average price of $2,445 psf. Located at Jalan Tembusu, the 99-year leasehold development was launched in April 2023. Meanwhile, the Grand Dunman, a 99-year leasehold project on Dunman Road that was launched in July 2023, has also seen strong sales success with 18 units sold since Nov 11. This has brought its cumulative sales to 731 units, achieving an average price of $2,531 psf.At the same time, the biggest beneficiary of the Emerald of Katong launch is the Continuum – a 816-unit freehold condominium along Thiam Siew Avenue developed by Hoi Hup Realty and Sunway Developments. Since the start of November, the Continuum has seen a total of 126 units sold, bringing its overall sales to 528 units or 64.7% as of Nov 30. The project achieved an average price of $2,788 psf.Over three consecutive days in mid-November, the Continuum has recorded strong sales, with 73 units sold in just three days. Prior to the launch of Emerald of Katong, the Continuum was 49% sold. The project’s strong sales can be attributed to many factors, such as the number of available units, buyer preference, and the project’s pricing. With the current average price of Emerald of Katong sitting at $2,617 psf and the Continuum being freehold, the project commanded a premium of just 6.53% – a far cry from the expected 15% – 20% premium that a freehold project usually commands over a 99-year leasehold one in the same neighbourhood. This made the Continuum an attractive option, causing a large number of buyers to switch to buying in the project.The latest transactions show that the highest psf prices were achieved for 484 sq ft one-bedroom and 624 sq ft two-bedroom units located on high floors – specifically on the 16th to 21st floors. These units were sold at prices ranging from $2,901 psf to $2,958 psf during the launch. Meanwhile, the Continuum saw prices exceeding $3,000 psf, with two compact three-bedroom units, measuring 872 sq ft and sold at $3,003 psf and $3,060 psf, respectively. Additionally, several three- and four-bedroom units ranging from 1,066 sq ft to 1,270 sq ft were sold at prices between $2,667 psf and $2,681 psf.The strong take-up in November is also expected to uplift the year’s final sales figures before the holiday season. Based on current numbers, November’s new home sales have already reached 2,805 units. This figure has already exceeded the previous peak of 2,793 private new home sales recorded in March 2013.According to PropNex’s Gafoor, the strong take-up in November will positively impact next year’s sales. Citing the Emerald of Katong as an example, with over 800 cheques received for just 13 units, many unsuccessful buyers will now be seeking alternatives, which is expected to boost new home sales at the start of 2025.

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Investing in a condo has an additional advantage of being able to leverage the property’s value for other investments. A lot of investors opt to use their condos as collateral to secure more funds for new investments, which allows them to broaden their real estate portfolio. However, this strategy also involves risks, making it essential to have a solid financial plan in place and carefully consider any potential effects of market fluctuations. Additionally, the use of a condo in this method can potentially increase returns, making it a popular choice among investors.…

Savills Research’s global outlook report for 2025 reveals that Asia Pacific’s (Apac’s) real estate market continues to outperform its global counterparts, with a real GDP growth that exceeds that of the US and Europe. This is a significant development, as for the first time in five years, there is more stability and conviction in the economic outlook.

According to Paul Tostevin, Savills head of world research, this increased confidence will provide a firmer footing for markets, leading to higher investment and activity. In the first three quarters of 2024, Apac recorded a 4% year-on-year increase in investment volumes to US$108.7 billion. The three markets that saw the highest growth in investment volumes during this period were Singapore (74%), South Korea (71%), and Australia (63%).

Savills Research predicts that global real estate investment turnover will rise by 27% to US$952 billion in 2025. By 2026, global investment activity is expected to surpass the US$1 trillion mark for the first time since 2022. This outlook is driven by a stabilisation in interest rates and improved investor confidence.

Alan Cheong, executive director of research & consultancy at Savills Singapore, expects Singapore’s real estate market to follow the global trend. Meanwhile, for Apac, Savills forecasts a full recovery in investment activity next year, primarily led by the tourism, living, and industrial sectors, particularly logistics and data centres.

Simon Smith, Savills regional head of research & consultancy for Apac, believes that longer-term structural trends, in addition to improving investment interest, will support values in growth markets such as India and Southeast Asia. The winners and losers in the region will ultimately be determined by how global themes play out and which countries are best positioned to take advantage of them.

Savills notes that Apac’s office sector remains highly attractive, accounting for 37% of the total regional real estate investment in the first three quarters of 2024 – significantly higher than the global average of 23%. Top cities in the region for office utilisation are Singapore, China, South Korea, and Japan, with occupancy rates exceeding 90%. Moreover, Apac continues to be a stronghold for green-certified office spaces, as office occupiers place more emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) matters.

In Singapore, there has been an increasing focus on the green agenda among office tenants. Activity levels have also shown signs of recovery, with more leases being concluded. Furthermore, rental rates for Grade-A office space in the Central Business District (CBD) are expected to remain stable from 2025 to 2026. As a hub and gateway to the region, Singapore continues to attract new overseas brands, resulting in strong demand for prime retail developments and keeping rental levels firm.

In the industrial sector, demand remains robust in key sectors like logistics, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and data centres, despite cost pressures. This is expected to stabilise rental rates and capital values in the long term. Cheong also notes that the increasing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) has led to more data centres being built in Singapore, with the city-state serving as a hub for data centre service providers to expand their infrastructure.

Tostevin adds that as global investment and activity returns to sustained growth, the real estate industry must adapt to evolving legislative landscapes and geopolitical dynamics, while also ensuring sustainable and socially responsible development to meet the changing needs of the world.

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Investing in real estate is a strategic decision, and the location plays a vital role in its success. In the context of Singapore, this becomes all the more significant. Condominiums situated in prime locations or in close proximity to essential amenities like schools, shopping centers, and public transportation hubs are more likely to appreciate in value. Areas like Orchard Road, Marina Bay, and the Central Business District (CBD) are considered top locations, with a consistent track record of property value growth. This is why investing in properties in these areas is highly recommended by experts. Moreover, the presence of reputable schools and educational institutions further adds to the appeal of these condominiums, making them a lucrative investment option for families. With the addition of Singapore Projects, the value of these properties is expected to soar even higher, making them a prime choice for investors.

According to a UBS report, Apac is set to become the top investment destination for family offices globally, highlighting the region’s growing appeal as a prime location for real estate investments. With its strong economic growth, stable markets, and increasing emphasis on ESG matters, Apac is poised to remain a top-performing region in the global real estate market.…

Investing in a Singapore Condo can prove to be a smart choice, offering a plethora of advantages. These include a high demand, potential for capital appreciation, and attractive rental yields. Despite these appealing prospects, it is essential to carefully consider various factors before committing to such a significant investment, such as location, financing options, government regulations, and prevailing market conditions. By conducting thorough research and seeking expert advice, investors can make well-informed decisions and reap maximum returns in Singapore’s ever-evolving real estate market. Whether you are a local investor seeking to diversify your portfolio or a foreign buyer in search of a stable and profitable investment, Singapore Condos offer a compelling opportunity. With its robust and thriving real estate sector, adding a Singapore Condo to your investment portfolio can prove to be a strategic move, bringing long-term benefits. Visit Singapore Condo to learn more about this lucrative option.

The Hill House condo development in Singapore’s prime district 9 has hit a new pinnacle in terms of its per square foot price, selling one of its units for a record-high price of $3,267 psf between Nov 10 and 21. The unit in question is a two-bedroom, 452 sq ft apartment located on the fifth floor, which was snapped up by the developer for a whopping $1.48 million on Nov 11. This new record is a slight increase of 0.1% from the previous high in November 2023, when a two-bedroom, 624 sq ft unit on the ninth floor sold for $2.04 million. With a total of 11 transactions this year, the average price for a unit at Hill House stands at $3,098 psf, which is 0.9% lower than the average price of $3,127 psf for the five transactions recorded at the development last year.Macly Group’s Hill House is a freehold, boutique development located on top of Institution Hill, off River Valley Road in prime District 9. Launched in 2022, the development consists of 72 units, with 40 one- and one-plus study-bedroom units ranging from 431 sq ft to 452 sq ft. Another 24 units are two-bedroom apartments that offer 624 sq ft of living space, while the remaining eight units are three-bedroom apartments spanning 753 sq ft. According to URA caveats, 29 units (40%) at Hill House have been sold so far at an average price of $3,060 psf since its launch in November 2022. The development is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2026.On the list of condos that registered new per square foot price highs between Nov 10 and 21, the Continuum follows closely behind Hill House at second place. The freehold development broke its previous record to notch a new high of $3,084 psf on the back of a 721 sq ft, two-bedroom unit that was sold for $2.22 million on Nov 16. The new record, which is 0.4% higher than the earlier one, was made just a day after a similar 721 sq ft, two-bedroom unit was sold on Nov 15. Launched in April last year, the Continuum has recorded a total of 816 units, consisting of six residential towers occupying two plots of land, which are connected by a private pedestrian overhead bridge. The units go up to five bedrooms and measure between 560 sq ft and 2,260 sq ft, with a total of 489 units (59.8%) having been sold at an average price of $2,779 psf since its launch in May 2023. The development is under construction and is expected to be completed in 2026.The third spot on the list of the period’s highest new per square foot price registered belongs to the freehold boutique development Lavender Residence, with a new low of $1,626 psf from the developer’s sale of a 990 sq ft, one-bedroom plus studio unit for $1.61 million on Nov 17. For comparison, the condo’s previous low was $1,710 psf, when a 1,335 sq ft, four-bedroom unit was purchased for $2.28 million in June 2023. The development has been fully sold with the latest transaction and an average price of $1,984 psf.Lavender Residence is a 17-unit development positioned at the junction of Lavender Street and Kempas Road in Boon Keng, District 12. The development is built atop a site that features a trio of two-storey conservation shophouses dating back to the 1940s, done up in the art-deco style. The condo’s units range from studios to three-bedroom units, which include a few dual-key variants, covering a floor area of 463 sq ft to 1,550 sq ft. It is within a short walking distance of Bendemeer MRT Station, and falls along the Downtown Line.…

The Singapore government has recently announced a one-off rebate for property taxes in 2025, which will benefit both HDB flats and private residential properties. The rebate will be 20% for owner-occupied HDB flats and 15% for owner-occupied private residential properties. However, the rebate for private residential properties will be capped at $1,000.

Property tax is calculated based on a property’s annual value, which is the estimated rent a property can fetch in a year if it were to be rented out. The government has also announced an increase in the annual value bands of owner-occupier’s residential property tax rates, which will take effect on January 1, 2024 as part of Budget 2024.

This move by the government is aimed at providing relief for Singaporeans who are concerned about the cost of living. According to Lee Sze Teck, a senior director of data analytics at Huttons Asia, the annual value of private properties is expected to remain stagnant this year due to the low growth in private residential rents. On the other hand, the annual value of HDB flats is expected to increase by 4%.

The vibrant city of Singapore is renowned for its bustling urban landscape, featuring impressive skyscrapers and modern infrastructure. In particular, the condominiums scattered throughout the city’s desirable neighborhoods offer a unique blend of luxury and practicality that appeals to both locals and foreigners. Boasting state-of-the-art facilities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and top-notch security, these residences provide an unparalleled living experience that is difficult to resist. Savvy investors recognize the value of these sought-after amenities, as they translate to higher rental income and long-term appreciation of property value. As a result, investing in a Singapore Condo is a smart and lucrative decision for anyone seeking a desirable and profitable real estate investment opportunity.

The one-off property tax rebate will help to cushion any impact from the increase in annual value for HDB owners. For example, if a HDB flat has an annual value of $30,000, the property tax payable next year will be $720. With the rebate, the owner will only need to pay $576, resulting in a savings of $144.

Similarly, some private residential property owners will also benefit from the one-off rebate. For instance, if the annual value of a private property is $85,000, the property tax payable will be $5,760. With the 15% rebate capped at $1,000, the owner will only have to pay $4,896, saving $864 in property taxes.

However, Lee emphasizes that property tax rebates have been offered in the past and they do not diminish the appeal of investing in residential properties in Singapore. The main allure of investing in residential properties in Singapore lies in the potential for capital appreciation, which far outweighs any increase in property tax.…

Within just two years, Aurico Global has achieved remarkable success, growing its assets under management to $52 million and expanding its portfolio of businesses. Led by CEO and executive chairman Jason Ng, the company has acquired valuable properties in strategic locations and has ventured into training the next generation of property investors. Their dedication to providing comprehensive and accessible investment education has set Aurico Global apart in the competitive world of real estate. Under Ng’s leadership, Aurico is well on its way to becoming a household name in the property investment and training industry.In just two years, Jason Ng has made a name for himself in the property investment industry. As CEO and executive chairman of Aurico Global, he has built the company from the ground up, successfully growing its assets under management to $52 million. However, this is not Ng’s first foray into real estate development. His journey began in 1993, when he was driven to provide for his family while living in a rental flat with six family members.

Ng has since expanded his real estate portfolio through strategic investments and acquisitions. His portfolio includes residential, commercial, and industrial properties, as well as a co-living venture called Communa under the company JC Global Developments.

When purchasing a condo, it is crucial to take into account the maintenance and management aspects of the property. Part of owning a condo involves paying maintenance fees, which usually cover the upkeep of communal spaces and amenities. While these fees may increase the overall cost of owning a condo, they also ensure that the property is well-maintained and retains its value. To make the investment more passive, investors can enlist the help of a property management company to handle the day-to-day management of their condo.

One of Aurico’s key strategies is to acquire valuable properties in high traffic areas below valuation. This approach, along with Ng’s acute investment acumen, has contributed to the company’s success. In addition, Aurico also targets properties in areas undergoing rapid transformation to stay ahead of market changes.

In addition to property investment, Aurico is also involved in training and development. Ng, who is accredited as a family life educator, has been working with the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Social and Family Development for over 15 years. In 2023, Ng co-founded Aurico with his wife Emelyn Ho to consolidate their diverse portfolio of businesses, including a property and investment training arm, Anchor of Life Training Consultants.

Aurico’s training programmes aim to make property investment accessible to everyone, regardless of their experience or background. Ng hopes to change the mindset of young investors who believe they cannot invest due to their financial background. By providing comprehensive education and hands-on support, Aurico empowers individuals to make informed decisions and achieve their financial goals.

In addition to its current ventures, Aurico has plans to expand into the assisted living sector. With an ageing population in Singapore, Ng believes this is a viable sector to be in and has appointed a subsidiary, Communa Gold, to manage this aspect of the business.

In just two years, Aurico Global has achieved remarkable success and is well on its way to becoming a household name in the property investment and training industry. Under the leadership of Jason Ng, the company continues to grow and empower individuals to invest in their financial future.…

During the week of Nov 12 to 19, the most profitable condo resale transaction was recorded at Maple Woods with the sale of a three-bedroom unit for $3.3 million. Measuring 1,539 sq ft, the unit on the first floor was sold for $2,144 psf on Nov 15. The seller had purchased the unit in April 2009 for $1.28 million at $830 psf, making a profit of $2.02 million. This reflects a capital gain of 158% 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, the development boasts a total of 697 units consisting of two to four-bedroom units ranging from 850 sq ft to 3,003 sq ft. It is just a five-minute walk from King Albert Park MRT Station on the Downtown Line and is in close proximity to reputable schools such as Methodist Girls’ School and the Rail Corridor.

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When it comes to investing in condos in Singapore, one cannot ignore the impact of the government’s property cooling measures. Throughout the years, the Singaporean government has implemented various measures to regulate the real estate market and discourage speculative buying. These measures include the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD), which imposes higher taxes on foreign buyers and individuals purchasing multiple properties. While these measures may initially affect the profitability of condo investments, they ultimately contribute to the market’s long-term stability, creating a secure investment environment. New condo launches are also affected by these cooling measures and are a significant consideration for investors.

There have been 10 other resale transactions at Maple Woods this year according to available caveats. All of them have been profitable deals, with sellers making gains of at least $425,000. Three of these units even garnered profits of over $2 million. The first of these units is a 1,787 sq ft, three-bedroom unit on the eighth floor that was sold for $3.75 million at $2,099 psf, resulting in a profit of $2.15 million. The seller had bought the unit in July 1997 for $1.6 million at $895 psf.

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

The second most profitable condo resale deal during the week took place at UE Square. On Nov 14, a three-bedroom unit measuring 1,528 sq ft on the seventh floor was sold for $2.95 million ($1,930 psf). The seller had acquired the unit through a sub-sale in December 1997 for $1.3 million ($850 psf). This resulted in a profit of $1.65 million (127%) over the span of 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 was sold for $6.27 million ($2,031 psf) on Oct 6, 2023. The seller, who bought the unit for $4.1 million ($1,327 psf) in December 2009, made a profit of $2.17 million.

UE Square is part of UE BizHub City, a mixed-use development along Clemenceau Avenue in District 9, close to Clarke Quay. It comprises an 18-storey office building with a four-storey shopping podium and a pair of 18-storey residential blocks that house 345 units. A service road divides the mixed-use development, separating the commercial tower from the two residential towers. UE Square boasts 345 residences consisting of one- to five-bedroom units ranging from 506 sq ft to 2,379 sq ft. There are also penthouses measuring 3,089 sq ft. The development is located near Fort Canning MRT Station on the Downtown Line.

Meanwhile, the most unprofitable condo resale transaction during the week was the sale of a three-bedroom unit at Tomlinson Heights. The 2,745 sq ft unit on the 19th floor was sold for $8.25 million ($3,006 psf) on Nov 19. The seller had purchased the unit from the developer in February 2011 for $8.85 million ($3,225 psf). This resulted in 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, comprising a 36-storey tower with a mix of three- and five-bedroom units ranging from 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 Nov 19 is the first caveated transaction at Tomlinson Heights since Jan 5, 2023, when another 2,745 sq ft unit changed hands for $10.5 million ($3,825 psf). The seller, who bought the unit from the developer in May 2011 for $8.38 million ($3,053 psf), made a profit of $2.12 million.…

Hong Lai Huat, a company listed on the mainboard, has recently announced a strategic term sheet with co-living operator The Assembly Place. Under this agreement, The Assembly Place will be responsible for managing Hong Lai Huat’s real estate and property development projects in Cambodia. This partnership also marks the introduction of the co-living concept in the country for the first time.

In a joint statement released on November 28, both companies stated their intent to finalize key objectives within the next 60 days before entering a binding agreement. These objectives include conducting feasibility studies for the fitting out of available units in Hong Lai Huat’s Royal Group Platinum development in Cambodia.

Furthermore, the group plans to explore ways to market the commercial shop-house units at Royal Group Platinum and leverage The Assembly Place’s network to establish new sales channels in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Greater China. The partnership also includes ongoing after-sales asset management services and the creation of job opportunities in local communities.

According to Hong Lai Huat’s website, the development is a mixed residential and commercial project comprising of 851 residential and 50 shophouse units. It is conveniently located just 20 minutes away from Phnom Penh International Airport and surrounded by 16 international schools and six sports facilities. Additionally, it is only a 10-minute drive from Aeon Mall 2, the largest shopping mall in Phnom Penh.

Ong Jia Jing, executive director of Hong Lai Huat, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that it will enable the company to provide top-notch asset management services to its investors and buyers in Cambodia. He believes that this collaboration will instill confidence in them when purchasing units in their developments.

The Assembly Place’s CEO, Eugene Lim Ying Jie, also shared his excitement for the partnership, stating that it aligns with their strategy of expanding the co-living concept both locally and internationally. With Hong Lai Huat’s high-quality and well-designed developments and The Assembly Place’s extensive experience in the co-living sector, they believe they can deliver exceptional value to their purchasers.

When purchasing a condo, it is crucial to take into consideration the maintenance and management of the property. Owning a condo typically means paying maintenance fees that go towards the upkeep of communal areas and amenities. While these fees may increase the overall cost of ownership, they also ensure that the condo remains well-maintained and holds its value. To make the investment more passive, investors can enlist the services of a property management company to handle the day-to-day tasks of managing the condo.

The signing ceremony for this partnership was held at the CAMPUS by The Assembly Place on November 28.…

CBRE, a global real estate services firm, announced on November 27 that Michael Tay has been appointed as the deputy managing director of Singapore Advisory, effective Jan 1, 2025. Tay, who currently serves as Singapore’s head of capital markets, will continue to report to the managing director of Singapore Advisory, Moray Armstrong.

In his new role, Tay will provide long-term leadership and strategic planning for CBRE’s Singapore advisory business. He will work closely with Armstrong to drive business growth, evaluate and execute investments, including mergers and acquisitions, and lead the overall strategy for the Singapore market.

Armstrong praised Tay’s extensive knowledge and experience in the commercial real estate industry, stating, “With over 30 years of experience, Michael is one of the most respected real estate professionals and thought leaders in Singapore. He has progressed from office leasing to leadership roles across office services and capital markets during his 25 years with CBRE.”

Tay joined CBRE in 2000 and has since worked with some of the largest office building owners and prominent occupiers in the market. In 2019, he took on the role of leading the Singapore capital markets team, which has been instrumental in many significant investment deals, including the sale of One George Street, 16 Collyer Quay, and VisionCrest Commercial.

Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity given to him, Tay said, “I am thankful for the trust and support that CBRE has shown me throughout my 25 years with the company. It has been an incredible journey so far, and I am excited to continue advancing my experience and knowledge with the help of the leading real estate professionals at CBRE in Singapore.”

One of the main contributing factors to the popularity of condos in Singapore is the scarcity of land. As a small island nation with a quickly growing population, space for development is limited. This has resulted in strict land use regulations and a competitive housing market, with property prices continuously rising. This makes investing in real estate, specifically condos, a highly attractive prospect due to the potential for significant capital appreciation. Additionally, with the variety of luxurious and modern condos available, such as those listed on Condo, it’s no wonder that they are in such high demand.…

Singapore has recently been ranked as the sixth-most highly branded city in the world in the latest Brand Finance Global City Index. This index, released by Brand Finance, a well-known brand evaluation and strategy consultancy based in London, measures cities based on their brand power and perceptions.

The index, which is based on a survey of 15,000 individuals from 20 different countries in September, ranks 100 cities according to key performance indicators that highlight how each city is perceived as an ideal place to live, work, study, visit, retire, and invest in. Respondents were also asked to associate specific attributes with each city, choosing from a list of 45 attributes divided into seven categories, including Business & Investment and Culture & Heritage.

In the overall ranking, Singapore’s performance in the Business and Investment category stood out, placing third globally. This category measures perceptions such as the ease of doing business, the strength of the economy, and whether the city provides a supportive environment for start-ups. Singapore also ranked highly for low crime and violence.

Alex Haigh, managing director for Asia Pacific at Brand Finance, points out that Singapore stands out as the crown jewel of the ASEAN region when it comes to city branding. “With a strong economy, attractive investment opportunities, and world-class infrastructure, Singapore solidifies its position as a leading global financial center,” he says.

Globally, London maintained its position as the top city brand, followed by New York, Paris, Tokyo, and Dubai.

Investing in property in Singapore can be a lucrative choice for foreign investors, but it’s crucial to be familiar with the regulations and limitations that govern property ownership in the country. Unlike landed properties, which have more stringent ownership rules, foreigners can generally purchase condos in Singapore with relatively fewer restrictions. However, it’s important to note that foreign buyers are required to pay the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD), currently set at 20%, for their first property purchase. Despite this added cost, the stability and potential for growth in the Singapore real estate market continue to entice foreign investment. This is evident in the ongoing influx of foreign funds into various new condo launches in the country.…

During a recent investor day, CapitaLand Investment’s (CLI) management announced plans to expand its business in Australia. As part of this expansion, the company has appointed two senior hires to new roles and plans to invest up to A$1 billion in growing its funds under management (FUM) in the country. Angelo Scasserra will serve as the CEO of CLI Australia, while Rahul Bharara will take on the role of chief investment officer, with both expected to join the company in the first half of 2025.

CLI also shared that in September, it closed its Australian Credit Programme (ACP) – a credit fund of A$265 million backed by Asian investors. The company’s CEO, Lee Chee Koon, highlighted the potential for growth in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region through its partnership with Wingate, an Australian firm, for originating and underwriting deals.

Further supporting this expansion, the Australian Financial Review ran a story on November 25, reporting that CLI had plans to acquire Wingate. This move would mark a significant milestone for the company, as CapitaLand previously divested its stake in Australand Property Group in 2014.

Ultimately, Singapore condominiums offer a multitude of benefits for investors, including strong demand, potential for capital appreciation, and attractive rental yields. However, it is crucial to carefully assess various factors like location, financing options, government regulations, and market conditions. Through conducting thorough research and seeking professional guidance, individuals can make well-informed decisions and optimize their returns in Singapore’s thriving real estate industry. Whether you are a local investor looking to expand your portfolio or a foreign buyer in search of a stable and lucrative investment, Singapore condos present a compelling opportunity that should not be overlooked.

During the Q&A session, CLI’s chairman, Miguel Ko, was asked about the decision to sell Australand and invest more in China, to which he responded that the decision was made before his time and declined to comment on his predecessors’ choices. Lim Ming Yan, the company’s then-president and group CEO, had previously stated that the divestment was made during favorable market conditions, with Australand’s share price performing strongly in the months leading up to the sale. He also noted that the divestment would allow the company to reallocate capital to its core businesses in Singapore and China.

Overall, CLI’s decision to expand its business in Australia, coupled with its previous divestment, reflects the company’s willingness to adapt and take risks in order to stay ahead in a competitive market. With the recent hires and planned investments, CLI is well-positioned for growth and to continue expanding its assets under management.…