Outlook 2025

Navigating Asean’s markets in H2: A balanced approach for a mixed outlook

While the region grapples with global recession risks and geopolitical uncertainties, opportunities for growth remain

In 2023, Singapore’s reinsurance premiums grew 31 per cent year on year to S$27.6 billion, accounting for approximately 21% of Asia’s reinsurance market.
OUTLOOK 2025

Singapore’s reinsurance market gears for growth in bid to be Asian hub

Industry watchers cite several favourable factors, including country’s supportive regulatory environment, advantageous geographical location and stability

Things could be looking up for the condo market this year, says Ismail Gafoor from PropNex.

PropertyBT: 2025 Singapore property trends with Ismail Gafoor

What is the outlook for the Singapore housing market in the Year of the Snake? Senior correspondent Leslie Yee gets insights from PropNex’s Ismail Gafoor.

Julius Baer sees an end to S&P 500's bull run, but forecasts US banks to benefit as the Federal Reserve may pause rate cuts this year to battle inflation.

Julius Baer sees end to S&P 500’s bull run; positive on US banks

Swiss private bank also positive on equities in Japan, China and India

Pundits expect that under president-elect Donald Trump's administration, the US will struggle to improve its economic offerings in South-east Asia.

Sorry Asean, Trump’s return may sideline South-east Asia’s economic aspirations

His focus on China and bilateral, transactional tendencies could undermine Asean’s hopes of being recognised as a unified bloc with significant economic clout

Across the broader market, Singapore’s 100 most traded stocks delivered strong performance, with average double-digit returns for the year.
OUTLOOK 2025

Industrial stocks lead the way in 2024; analysts upbeat on banking, tech sectors this year

The benchmark STI has risen 16.9% in 2024, marking its best year since 2017, though market watchers believe there is more room to grow

Analysts do not expect a gold rush in the coming year, but it seems that the yellow metal will retain some of its shine for time to come.
BRUNCH

Gold dazzled last year, but may lose some lustre in 2025

With the Year of the Snake upon us, market watchers are split on how the precious metal will fare after a record-breaking 2024

A consortium comprising Malaysian sovereign wealth fund Khazanah Nasional, Global Infrastructure Partners, Malaysia Employees Provident Fund and the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, has made an offer for Malaysia Airports Holdings.
OUTLOOK 2025

Mergers and acquisitions expected to rise in South-east Asia in 2025

Market watchers notice a flurry of activity among sovereign wealth funds and that capital is waiting to be funnelled into M&As

With the majority of Singaporeans exhibiting hybrid shopping behaviour, retailers with robust omnichannel sales strategies are seen as having more chance of success.
OUTLOOK 2025

With consumer demand diverted overseas, Singapore retailers see another tough year ahead

High rents and manpower shortages also remain challenges

E-commerce players such as Shopee are unlikely to employ the deep discounts of yesteryear in growing their market share.
OUTLOOK 2025

E-commerce in 2025: Sustainable growth and rationality to emerge as key themes

The focus is on unit economics and enhancing the customer experience