TransportBT: Discover the driving forces behind the current COE landscape

If you enjoy transformative business stories or are simply intrigued by the intricate mechanisms that drive mobility, TransportBT, a podcast of BT Correspondents by The Business Times, is your next essential listen. Hosted by Derryn Wong, the latest episode makes a thorough examination of the Certificate of Entitlement (COE) system in Singapore. 

The COE is a heavily discussed topic in the local automotive sector and is often blamed for the high cost of vehicle ownership. Wong and his guest Say Kwee Neng, a longtime player in the car industry, break down how COE impacts wallet trauma for Singaporeans and questions why this system is often seen as burdensome.

Government policies and real-world impacts

Say, with over two decades of experience in the automotive industry, shares his wealth of knowledge and provides insights into the historical and current trends affecting COE prices. The duo also delve into how Private Hire Cars (PHCs) and their exponential growth have influenced the COE market.

The podcast touches on the Singapore Government’s recent decision against creating a separate COE category for PHCs. Unpacking the rationale behind this government policy and the conflicting forces at play - provides listeners with a nuanced understanding of the current COE landscape.

Explore the role of private-hire cars in COE dynamics

The growth of ride-hailing apps and the subsequent surge in private-hire cars have dramatically changed the dynamics of the COE system. With private-hire companies influencing COE prices for the past decade, the podcast delves into how this phenomenon has reshaped the market. 

Another compelling angle explored is the role of National Sales Companies (NSCs) in driving up COE prices. Say, talks about the concept of transfer pricing and how NSCs can manipulate this to gain a competitive edge, influence COE prices, and ultimately impact the market. This deep dive into financial strategies within the automotive sector is a highlight of this podcast.

Discover the hidden economic factors

Say offers an insider’s perspective on why the Singaporean government hesitates to tweak the COE system, shedding light on the broader economic implications.

Wong’s relatable narration, combined with Say’s expert commentary, ensures a fluid conversation and clear breakdown of the topic.

If you are in the process of buying a new car, listen now to the latest episode of TransportBT to help you navigate through the latest COE considerations. 

Listen now to the episode. 

TransportBT is a podcast of BT Correspondents. Look out for the next episode featuring senior correspondent Leslie Yee. 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: Derryn Wong (derrynwong@sph.com.sg)

With Say Kwee Neng, managing partner, One Strategic Consulting

Edited by: Emily Liu & Claressa Monteiro

Produced by: Derryn Wong, Emily Liu & Chai Pei Chieh

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

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Do note: This podcast is meant to provide general information only. SPH Media accepts no liability for loss arising from any reliance on the podcast or use of third party’s products and services. Please consult professional advisors for independent advice.

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