Considerations for SGX from Bursa Malaysia’s success

IN THE first half of FY2024, only one new initial public offering (IPO) was successfully listed on Singapore Exchange (SGX). However, in September 2024, SGX saw three companies lodge their offer documents. Could this signify a turning point for the Singapore bourse?

SGX has been at a crucial juncture over the past few years, facing challenges in attracting new listings, IPOs and maintaining market liquidity. The formation of a review group in August by SGX and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) to strengthen and revitalise the equities market underscores the urgency of addressing these issues.

Recent comments by Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat, who is also second minister for finance and deputy chairman of MAS as well as chairperson of the SGX-MAS review group, have highlighted that instead of going head-on with the larger exchanges, SGX should identify areas where Singapore can add value by playing to its strengths.