Daily Debrief: What Happened Today (Aug 4)

Stories you might have missed

Singapore sets up Economic Strategy Review under tariff taskforce to take ‘fresh look’ at longer-term strategies: DPM Gan

[SINGAPORE] The Republic is carrying out an Economic Strategy Review (ESR) to look at its longer-term strategies given the significant challenges brought by a new regime of US tariffs as well as the fraying multilateral trading system.

Prosecution accepts judicial mercy for cancer-stricken Ong Beng Seng; sentencing set for Aug 15

[SINGAPORE] There is a basis for the Singapore courts to consider judicial mercy in sentencing property tycoon Ong Beng Seng for his involvement in a case linked to former transport minister S Iswaran, prosecutors said on Monday (Aug 4). 

Malaysia pledges over US$240 billion in US deals to avert trade fallout and to lower tariffs

[KUALA LUMPUR] In a bid to secure a lower tariff rate, Malaysia has committed to trade agreements with the United States, with deals cumulatively valued at over US$240 billion for the purchase of items such as Boeing aircraft, coal and telecommunications equipment.

BlueSG to pause operations, revamp fleet amid complaints of vehicle, app issues

[SINGAPORE] Car-sharing operator BlueSG on Monday (Aug 4) announced that it would pause its car-sharing operations from Aug 8, while it prepares for a major upgrade to its tech platform and car fleet amid complaints of car and app issues.

Shophouse sales slow in H1 amid macro volatility; investors shift away from F&B assets

[SINGAPORE] Activity in the shophouse market was tepid in the first half of 2025, with both the number and value of recorded deals falling as investors adopted a wait-and-see approach amid growing macroeconomic uncertainty.

Is a new 400 sq ft condo home worth buying?

Springleaf Residence, which is jointly developed by GuocoLand and Hong Leong, speaks to my heart.

Singapore shares bounce back after 6-day losing streak; STI up 1%

[SINGAPORE] Stocks on the Singapore Exchange (SGX) rebounded on Monday (Aug 4), snapping a six-day losing streak, even as Asian indices closed mixed.