PropertyBT: Stability and growth in Singapore’s dynamic property market

Claressa Monteiro
Published Tue, May 27, 2025 · 05:00 AM
    • Office rents in the CBD continued to grow in Q1 this year.
    • Office rents in the CBD continued to grow in Q1 this year. PHOTO: ADOBE STOCK

    In the latest episode of PropertyBT, a podcast of BT Correspondents by The Business Times, senior correspondent Leslie Yee speaks with Wong Xian Yang, head of research for Singapore and South-east Asia at Cushman & Wakefield to gain insight into current real estate trends in Singapore. 

    They discuss how the GE2025 results could impact the local economy and property sector, making this episode a must-listen for investors and property enthusiasts.

    Setting the stage

    Yee begins the episode with the socio-political context of Singapore, post-GE2025. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong led the People’s Action Party (PAP) to a decisive victory and he is now looking at how this political stability can bolster business confidence. 

    Wong then provides an optimistic yet cautious outlook on Singapore’s economy amidst global trade uncertainties, posing critical questions: Can office and industrial properties in Singapore remain resilient? What are the implications of the intense US-China trade rivalry? These compelling questions in the podcast, provide informative and highly relevant answers for understanding the evolving landscape.  

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    Learn about the varying impacts on the commercial, industrial, and logistics sectors. During economic downturns, why do some sectors perform better? Wong shares crucial insights from past crises, revealing trends that can guide your investment decisions. He points out that Singapore’s competitive edge remains a key focus. 

    Despite regional and global challenges, Wong argues that Singapore continues to attract businesses due to its strategic location, robust infrastructure, skilled labour pool, and extensive free trade agreements. 

    Singapore’s office market

    Wong’s comprehensive perspective can help property stakeholders make informed decisions about setting up or expanding their operations in Singapore.

    What does the future hold for Singapore’s office market? In the podcast Wong talks about the current leasing momentum and market resilience. The pair then discuss both the opportunities and challenges, offering a nuanced view that highlights the resilient demand and limited new supply, especially in CBD Grade-A office spaces.

    Regional investment

    Wong provides insights into potential benefits and risks, helping listeners grasp the complexities of regional economic ties. The podcast also delves into the critical topic of industrial and logistics properties facing trade tariff impacts. Commenting on rental performance, leasing activities, and supply chain diversification, Wong then offers a data-driven look into what lies ahead for these asset classes.

    Listen now to gain insight into Wong Xian Yang’s assessment which reveals why Singapore remains a safe haven for investments.

    PropertyBT is a podcast of BT Correspondents. Look out for the next episode featuring senior correspondent Ben Paul. And if you have any thoughts or questions, feel free to reach out to us at btpodcasts@sph.com.sg.

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    Written and hosted by: Leslie Yee (lyee@sph.com.sg)

    With Wong Xian Yang, head of research Singapore and South-east Asia, Cushman & Wakefield

    Edited by: Emily Liu & Claressa Monteiro

    Produced by: Leslie Yee, Emily Liu & Chai Pei Chieh

    A podcast by BT Podcasts, The Business Times, SPH Media

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