Month: November 2024

The much-anticipated launch of Sim Lian Group’s Emerald of Katong two weeks ago was met with resounding success, as 99% of its 846 units were sold over just three days.

Latest records show that 825 units (97.5%) have been snapped up at the 99-year leasehold private condominium located on Jalan Tembusu, with an average price of $2,617 per square foot (psf).

Although there were 13 units that were not taken up due to some buyers withdrawing their purchases after the launch weekend, which kicked off with VIP and multiple-unit sales on Nov 15, followed by a public launch on Nov 16 and 17.

Investing in a condominium in Singapore has become a favored option for both local and foreign investors, thanks to the country’s thriving economy, stable political climate, and exceptional quality of life. With its diverse real estate market, Singapore offers a plethora of investment opportunities, with condos being a top choice for their convenience, amenities, and potential for lucrative returns. In this article, we will delve into the advantages, important factors to consider, and essential steps to take when investing in a condo in Singapore with the assistance of New Condo Launches.

Find out the latest updates on available units and prices for Emerald Of Katong.

In response to the buyers backing out, the developer held a balloting session for the 13 units on the morning of Nov 30. “With the overwhelming response of over 800 interested buyers, all 13 units were swiftly sold,” stated Ismail Gafoor, CEO of PropNex.

The launch of Emerald of Katong had a significant ripple effect on neighbouring projects in the prime District 15’s East Coast area. The adjacent Tembusu Grand, developed in a joint venture by City Developments Ltd (CDL) and MCL Land, boasts a whopping 638 units.

Since the beginning of November, 52 units have been sold, bringing the total sales to 581 units (91%) at an average price of $2,445 psf. This 99-year leasehold development on Jalan Tembusu was launched in April 2023.

Source: EdgeProp Buddy, URA Realis

On the other hand, at the 1,008-unit Grand Dunman by SingHaiyi, 18 units were sold since Nov 11, adding up to a total of 731 units (72.5%) sold at an average price of $2,531 psf. This 99-year leasehold condominium on Dunman Road was launched in July 2023.

Source: EdgeProp Buddy, URA Realis

However, the biggest beneficiary of the Emerald of Katong’s launch was The Continuum, an 816-unit freehold condominium along Thiam Siew Avenue, developed by joint venture partners Hoi Hup Realty and Sunway Developments.

Since Nov 9, a total of 126 units have been sold, bringing overall sales to 528 units (64.7%) as of Nov 30, based on caveats lodged. The average price of units sold is $2,788 psf.

Find out the latest transactions for The Continuum.

In the mid-November weekend, The Continuum recorded strong sales, with 13 units sold on Nov 15, 38 on Nov 16, and 22 on Nov 17, totalling 73 units.

According to caveats lodged, 126 units have been sold since Nov 9, with 528 units sold so far, equivalent to 64.7%.

Before the launch of Emerald of Katong, The Continuum was already 49% sold, leaving 51% of its units still available. “With a greater number of available units, buyers had more options,” explained Ismail Gafoor, CEO of PropNex. “In comparison, many of the smaller units at Grand Dunman had already been sold.”

Another factor contributing to The Continuum’s strong take-up was its pricing, according to Gafoor. The average price at the 99-year leasehold Emerald of Katong was $2,617 psf, while The Continuum, being freehold, achieved an average price of $2,788 psf, representing a premium of just 6.53%.

“Typically, a freehold project commands at least 15% to 20% premium over a 99-year leasehold project in the same area,” Gafoor illustrated. “Homebuyers recognized the value proposition and were quick to switch to The Continuum.”

The highest psf prices were achieved for the 484 sq ft one-bedroom and 624 sq ft two-bedroom units on high floors at Emerald of Katong, specifically from the 16th to 21st floors. During the launch, 21 such units recorded prices ranging from $2,901 psf to $2,958 psf according to caveats lodged.

Meanwhile, at The Continuum, 13 caveats lodged so far show prices exceeding $3,000 psf. Of these, 11 units were sold this November, including nine two-bedroom, high-floor units ranging in size from 646 to 721 sq ft. These units fetched prices from $3,003 psf to $3,084 psf. Additionally, two compact three-bedroom units measuring 872 sq ft were sold at $3,003 psf and $3,060 psf, respectively.

For lower-floor units, some three- and four-bedroom units ranging from 1,066 sq ft to 1,270 sq ft were sold at prices between $2,667 psf and $2,681 psf during the past month.

“November has been a strong month for new home sales, providing a significant boost for the year before the December holidays,” said Gafoor. To date, new home sales in November have hit 2,805 units. However, this figure is not yet final.

The current numbers have already surpassed the previous peak of 2,793 monthly private new home sales recorded in March 2013, according to Hutton Data Analytics.

“The robust take-up in November will have a positive impact on the sales rate in 2025,” added Gafoor. He cited Emerald of Katong as an example, with more than 800 interested buyers for just 13 units on Nov 30. As a result, many unsuccessful buyers will now be looking for other options. “This will undoubtedly boost new home sales in early 2025,” he concluded.…

The real estate market in Asia Pacific (Apac) continues to outperform its global counterparts, according to a report by Savills Research. The region’s real GDP growth has surpassed that of the US and Europe, leading to a more stable economic outlook and boosting investment and activity.

In the first three quarters of 2024, Apac saw a 4% increase in investment volumes to US$108.7 billion. The most significant growth was seen in Singapore, South Korea, and Australia, with investment volumes increasing by 74%, 71%, and 63% respectively.

Savills Research forecasts global real estate investment turnover to rise by 27% to US$952 billion in 2025 and reach over US$1 trillion in 2026. The region is expected to see a full investment recovery next year, driven by the tourism, living, and industrial sectors, particularly logistics and data centres.

Singapore is expected to follow this trend, with Alan Cheong, Executive Director of Research & Consultancy at Savills Singapore, stating that the real estate market in Singapore will mirror the global narrative. The country is also a popular destination for new overseas brands, leading to healthy demand for prime retail developments and keeping rental levels stable.

In the industrial sector, demand remains strong in key areas such as logistics, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and data centres, which will help maintain stable rental rates and capital values in the long term. The rise in AI adoption has also led to an increase in the number of data centres being built in Singapore, with many service providers using the city-state as a launching pad to explore new sites.

As global investment and activity continue to grow, the real estate industry must adapt to changing legislative landscapes and geopolitical dynamics while prioritizing sustainable and socially responsible development to meet the needs of an evolving world, says Paul Tostevin, Savills Head of World Research.

Overall, Apac’s office sector remains attractive, commanding 37% of the region’s total real estate investment in the first three quarters of 2024, well above the global average of 23%. Singapore, China, South Korea, and Japan are the top cities in the region for office utilization, with occupancy rates exceeding 90%. The region also leads in green-certified office spaces, with tenants placing a greater emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors.

In summary, opting to invest in a condo in Singapore provides a range of benefits. These include a strong demand for properties, the potential for appreciation in value, and attractive rental yields. However, it is crucial to carefully consider various factors like the location, financing options, government regulations, and market conditions. By conducting thorough research and seeking expert advice, investors can make well-informed decisions and maximize their returns in Singapore’s ever-evolving real estate market. Whether you are a local investor looking to expand your portfolio or a foreign buyer in search of a stable and profitable investment, the condos in Singapore are a compelling option. With Condo as a valuable addition to your investment choices, you can take advantage of the dynamic real estate market in Singapore.

In conclusion, Savills Research believes that Apac is well-positioned for a strong investment recovery, with sectors like tourism, living, and industrial driving growth. The region’s strong office sector and emphasis on sustainable development will also play a key role in attracting investors. As global investment returns to sustained growth, the real estate industry must adapt to changing trends and maintain a socially responsible approach to meet the needs of a changing world.…

Boutique development Hill House emerged as the top condo with the highest psf-price achieved between November 10 to 21. A new record of $3,267 psf was set when a 452 sq ft two-bedroom unit on the fifth floor was sold for $1.48 million on November 11 by the developer. This is only 0.1% higher than the previous record of $3,263 psf set in November 2023, when a 624 sq ft two-bedroom unit on the ninth floor was sold for $2.04 million. A total of 11 units at Hill House have been sold this year, with an average price of $3,098 psf, which is 0.9% lower than the average price of $3,127 psf based on the five transactions at the development last year.

Hill House is a 999-year leasehold condo located at the top of Institution Hill, off River Valley Road in prime District 9. Launched in 2022, the boutique development comprises 72 units, including one-bedroom and one-bedroom plus study types ranging from 431 sq ft to 452 sq ft, two-bedroom units of 624 sq ft, and three-bedroom apartments of 753 sq ft. As per URA caveats, 29 units (40%) at Hill House have been sold at an average price of $3,060 psf since its launch in November 2022. The condo is under construction and is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2026.

Condo investment offers numerous advantages, including the potential to leverage the property’s value for future investments. A popular approach among investors is using their condos as collateral to secure additional funding for new ventures, enabling them to grow their real estate portfolio. This can lead to higher returns, but it’s essential to have a solid financial strategy in place and carefully consider any potential market fluctuations. Singapore Condo is among the many options available for investors looking to expand their investment opportunities.

The Continuum, a freehold condo, came in second on the list with a new psf-price high of $3,084, set from the sale of a 721 sq ft two-bedroom unit on the 17th floor for $2.22 million on November 16. This is only 0.4% higher than the previous high of $3,071 psf set on November 15 from the sale of a 721 sq ft two-bedroom unit on the 16th floor. The Continuum, located on Thiam Siew Avenue off Haig Road and Tanjong Katong Road in District 15, was launched in April last year and offers 816 units ranging from one- to five-bedroom apartments occupying between 560 sq ft and 2,260 sq ft. As per caveats lodged, a total of 489 units (59.8%) at The Continuum have been sold at an average price of $2,779 psf since its launch in May 2023. The condo is under construction and is slated to be completed by 2026.

On the other hand, Lavender Residence, a freehold boutique development, set a new psf-price low during the period in review when a 990 sq ft one-bedroom + studio unit on the second floor was sold for $1.61 million, or $1,626 psf, on November 17. This is lower than its previous record of $1,710 psf set in June 2023 when a 1,335 sq ft four-bedroom unit on the sixth floor was sold for $2.28 million. Lavender Residence has been fully sold at an average price of $1,984 psf. Situated at the junction of Lavender Street and Kempas Road in Boon Keng, District 12, Lavender Residence comprises 17 units ranging from studios to three-bedroom units with some dual-key variants, from 463 sq ft to 1,550 sq ft. The development is within walking distance of Bendemeer MRT Station on the Downtown Line.…

The government has announced a one-off property tax rebate as part of Budget 2024. In 2025, owner-occupied HDB flats will receive a 20% rebate, while owner-occupied private residential properties will receive a rebate of 15% with a cap of $1,000. This is in response to the upcoming increase in annual value bands for owner-occupier’s residential property tax rates, which will take effect on January 1, 2025.The annual value of a property is calculated based on its estimated yearly rental income if it were to be rented out. The government believes that these changes, along with the property tax rebate, will result in lower property taxes for more than 90% of owner-occupied properties in Singapore. This initiative reflects the government’s efforts to alleviate the rising cost of living for Singaporeans.Following these changes, Lee Sze Teck, senior director of data analytics at Huttons Asia, predicts that the annual value of private properties will remain steady in 2025, due to the minimal growth of private residential rents this year. Meanwhile, HDB rents are expected to increase by 4%, potentially raising the annual value of HDB flats. The one-off property tax rebate may help HDB owners offset any potential increase in annual value. For instance, if the annual value of a HDB flat is $30,000, the property tax payable for 2025 would be $720. With no change in annual value, the owner would only have to pay $576, saving $144 in taxes. Similarly, owners of private residential properties with an annual value of $85,000 will save $864 in taxes with the 15% rebate capped at $1,000.However, Lee notes that this property tax rebate has been offered in the past, but it does not diminish the appeal of investing in residential properties in Singapore. The main draw of investing in Singapore’s residential properties is their potential for capital appreciation, which outweighs any increase in property tax.

Investing in a condo has its own advantages, one of which is the opportunity to leverage its value for future investments. As a way to expand their real estate portfolio, numerous investors utilize their condos as collateral to secure additional financing for new ventures. While this tactic can potentially amplify profits, it’s essential to have a solid financial strategy in place and carefully consider the potential effects of market fluctuations. By incorporating condos into one’s investment plan, individuals can unlock even greater opportunities for growth and success in the real estate market.…

In just two years, Jason Ng has achieved remarkable success with his property investment and training firm, Aurico Global. From humble beginnings, Ng has built the company from the ground up and currently manages a portfolio of $52 million in assets.

For Ng, property investment has always been a personal journey. It began in 1993 when he felt a strong sense of responsibility to provide for his family. Growing up, Ng lived with six family members in a rental flat along Dakota Crescent. Motivated to support his loved ones, he worked hard and eventually saved enough to invest in his first property – a 1,400 sq ft three-bedroom apartment for $435,000. Looking back, Ng reflects, “You can’t even get a similar-sized house for that price nowadays.”

Investing in a Singapore condo has emerged as a preferred option for both local and foreign investors, owing to the country’s strong economy, unwavering political stability, and impeccable quality of life. With its flourishing real estate market, Singapore presents a plethora of investment opportunities, and among them, condos stand out for their convenience, upscale amenities, and potential for lucrative returns. This article delves into the advantages, factors to consider, and necessary steps to take when considering a condo investment in Singapore.

With his sharp acumen for property investment, Ng quickly expanded his portfolio and ventured into student enrichment and parenting training. He is now an accredited family life educator and has been working with the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Social and Family Development for over 15 years.

In January 2023, Ng co-founded Aurico with his wife, Emelyn Ho, to bring together his diverse portfolio of businesses. These include Aurico’s co-living investment and management arm JC Global Developments, property and investment training arm Anchor of Life Training Consultants, and My Preschool Hub – a provider of preschool enrichment resources and programs.

Aurico’s property portfolio covers a wide range of property types, from residential (co-living) to commercial and industrial assets. The company has a significant presence in the co-living space, with 380 units valued at over $30 million under its subsidiary, Communa, which is managed by JC Global Developments. Patrick Loke, a shareholder in Aurico, shares that the company has plans to acquire more properties and aims to almost double their current portfolio to 600 units by the end of the year.

One of the key strategies of Aurico is to acquire properties at strategic locations and below market valuation. In September, the company bought a two-storey shophouse on Joo Chiat Road for $5.1 million, which was 12% below its valuation price. Ng explains, “Every property that we buy must be bought at below market valuation. That means that before we buy an asset, we’ve already made money on it.”

Aurico looks for commercial properties in rapidly transforming areas, such as the mixed-use development Woods Square in Woodlands. The company owns a 560 sq ft commercial strata office unit at Woods Square, which they acquired in July for their own use. Ng says, “We believe that this investment allows us to be at the forefront of changes in Woodlands. This includes the upcoming Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System. Having an office in Woodlands also boosts operational efficiency as we can easily hire workers from across the border.”

The company also sees potential in the food production industry and has acquired food factory assets to tap into the government’s “30 by 30” goal to produce 30% of the country’s nutritional needs by 2030. According to Ng, while they do not plan to go directly into the F&B business, the food factory and central kitchen purchases are strategic investments that enhance their portfolio. One of these properties is the strata-titled food facility Food Xchange @ Admiralty, which is strategically located near Johor and has a long lease balance of 36 years.

In May, Aurico acquired a 29.8% controlling stake in Autagco Ltd, a listed company on the Singapore Exchange. With Loke as the executive director, the company announced plans to diversify into property investment, co-living property management, education, and other businesses. As part of this diversification, Aurico has plans to inject their assets into Autagco.

Recently, Autagco announced that its board of directors has conducted a strategic review to diversify and expand its core business to include residential assisted living. The company is in the process of securing a suitable property for this project, which will be managed by Communa Gold, a subsidiary of Autagco.

Apart from property investment, Aurico is known for providing comprehensive and high-quality training to aspiring property investors. Ng believes that investment education is essential but often inaccessible to many. With his courses, he aims to make residential and commercial property investment accessible to anyone, regardless of their background or experience. Aurico also offers participants the opportunity to leverage the company’s network and strategies to enhance their investment portfolio. Ng is particularly passionate about helping millennials and Gen Z investors realize that they, too, can start their investment journey with proper guidance and training.

With its comprehensive curriculum and hands-on support, Aurico is committed to empowering individuals to make informed decisions and achieve their financial goals through real estate.…

In summary, the benefits of investing in a Singapore condo are plentiful, with a high demand, strong potential for capital appreciation, and attractive rental yields. However, before making a decision, it is crucial to carefully consider various factors such as the location, financing options, government regulations, and current market conditions. With thorough research and professional guidance, investors can make well-informed choices and maximize their returns in the fast-paced real estate market of Singapore. Whether you are a local looking to diversify your investment portfolio or a foreign buyer searching for a secure and profitable option, Singapore condos are a compelling opportunity to consider. For more information, please visit Singapore Condo.

The most profitable condo resale deal for the week of November 12 to 19 was recorded at Maple Woods. The three-bedroom unit, measuring 1,539 sq ft and located on the first floor, was sold for $3.3 million ($2,144 psf) on November 15. This transaction has earned the seller a profit of $2.02 million, reflecting a capital gain of 158%. The gross profit has been made in just 15 and a half years, resulting in an annualized gain of 10.6%.The development, a freehold condo known as Maple Woods, is situated on Bukit Timah Road in the prime District 10. Notably built in 1997, it comprises a total of 697 residences ranging from two to four-bedroom units, with sizes from 850 sq ft to 3,003 sq ft. The location is highly convenient, just a five-minute walk from King Albert Park MRT Station on the Downtown Line and in close proximity to well-known schools such as Methodist Girls’ School and the Rail Corridor.During this year, Maple Woods has seen 10 other resale transactions. As evident from available caveats, all of them have been profitable with the sellers gaining a minimum of $425,000. Three of these units were resold for more than $2 million in profit each. The first of these units is a three-bedroom unit measuring 1,787 sq ft and located on the eighth floor. It has fetched $3.75 million ($2,099 psf), enabling the seller to gain a profit of $2.15 million. The unit was initially purchased in July 1997 for $1.6 million ($895 psf).Read also: ANALYSIS – The Impact of Sub-Sales on Profitable TransactionsAdvertisementThe second unit has been sold for $3.82 million ($2,138 psf) on September 10. It is a three-bedroom unit measuring 1,787 sq ft. The seller had purchased this unit in March 2007 for $1.35 million ($756 psf), hence making a gain of $2.47 million. The third unit, also sold on September 10, is a four-bedroom unit measuring 3,003 sq ft and located on the eighth floor. It has been sold for $5 million ($1,665 psf). This unit had been purchased in September 1998 for $2.4 million ($798 psf), resulting in a profit of $2.6 million.The second most profitable condo resale deal during the period has taken place at UE Square. On November 14, a three-bedroom unit measuring 1,528 sq ft and located on the seventh floor has been sold for $2.95 million ($1,930 psf). The seller acquired this unit via a sub-sale in December 1997 for $1.3 million ($850 psf). After owning the unit for almost 27 years, the seller has made a profit of $1.65 million (127%). This transaction has been named the fourth most profitable resale transaction registered at UE Square. The record is held by a four-bedroom penthouse measuring 3,089 sq ft, which was sold for $6.27 million ($2,031 psf) on October 6, 2023. The seller had purchased the unit in December 2009 for $4.1 million ($1,327 psf), resulting in a profit of $2.17 million.UE Square is a part of UE BizHub City, a mixed-use development situated along Clemenceau Avenue in District 9, close to Clarke Quay. The estate comprises of an 18-storey office building with a four-storey shopping podium, and a pair of 18-storey residential blocks housing a total of 345 units. The two residential towers stand separated by a service road. Comprising of one- to five-bedroom units of sizes ranging from 506 sq ft to 2,379 sq ft, the development also offers penthouses measuring 3,089 sq ft each. The convenient location of UE Square brings it within walking distance of the Fort Canning MRT Station on the Downtown Line.Meanwhile, the most unprofitable condo resale transaction during the period has been recorded at Tomlinson Heights. On November 19, a three-bedroom unit measuring 2,745 sq ft and located on the 19th floor was sold for $8.25 million ($3,006 psf). This unit was originally bought from the developer in February 2011 for $8.85 million ($3,225 psf). As a result, the seller has incurred a loss of approximately $601,000 (6.8%) after owning the unit for a period of almost 14 years.Read also: Four-bedder in Grand Duchess at St Patrick’s sold for $2.48 million profitAdvertisementThe sale of this 2,745 sq ft unit at Tomlinson Heights for $8.25 million ($3,006 psf) and the resultant loss of about $603,000 is the first caveated transaction at Tomlinson Heights since January 5, 2023. Another 2,745 sq ft unit had been sold on October 5, 2023, for $10.5 million ($3,825 psf). The seller had initially purchased this unit from the developer in May 2011 for $8.38 million ($3,053 psf), resulting in a profit of $2.12 million.…

Hong Lai Huat, a company listed on the mainboard, has formed a strategic partnership with co-living operator The Assembly Place. This term sheet will pave the way for The Assembly Place to manage Hong Lai Huat’s real estate and property development projects in Cambodia. This collaboration will also bring the concept of co-living to the country for the first time.

In a joint statement issued on Nov 28, both companies have set a 60-day timeline to finalize the key objectives before signing a binding agreement. These objectives include conducting feasibility studies for the fitting out of available units in Hong Lai Huat’s Royal Group Platinum development in Cambodia. Additionally, the group will explore ways to market Hong Lai Huat’s available commercial shop-house units in Royal Group Platinum. They also intend to take advantage of The Assembly Place’s network to establish new sales channels in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Greater China for Hong Lai Huat’s completed and upcoming projects. The partnership will also provide ongoing after-sales asset management services and create job opportunities in local communities.

According to Hong Lai Huat’s website, the development is a mixed residential and commercial project with 851 residential and 50 shophouse units. It is conveniently located only 20 minutes away from Phnom Penh International Airport and is surrounded by 16 international schools and six sports facilities. The development is also within a 10-minute drive to Aeon Mall 2, which is currently the largest shopping mall in Phnom Penh.

Ong Jia Jing, executive director of Hong Lai Huat, expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating that it will enable the company to provide top-tier asset management services to their investors and buyers in Cambodia. He believes that this collaboration will give them the confidence they need when purchasing units in their developments.

For The Assembly Place’s CEO Eugene Lim Ying Jie, this partnership is in line with their strategy of expanding the co-living concept both locally and internationally. He believes that with Hong Lai Huat’s high-quality and thoughtfully designed developments and The Assembly Place’s extensive experience in the co-living sector, they can deliver exceptional value to their purchasers.

When contemplating investing in a condominium, it is crucial to evaluate its potential rental yield. This refers to the annual rental income as a percentage of the property’s purchase price. In Singapore, condos can have varying rental yields depending on their location, condition, and demand in the market. Generally, areas with a high demand for rentals, such as those near business districts or educational institutions, offer higher rental yields. To gain a better understanding of a specific condo’s rental potential, it is advisable to conduct thorough market research and seek advice from real estate agents. In fact, Singapore Projects can be a valuable resource for obtaining insights into the rental market.

The signing ceremony for this partnership was held at the CAMPUS by The Assembly Place on Nov 28.…

CBRE announced on November 27 that Michael Tay has been chosen as the deputy managing director of Singapore Advisory, effective January 1, 2025. Currently serving as the head of capital markets for Singapore, Tay will continue to report to CBRE’s managing director of Singapore Advisory, Moray Armstrong.

In his new role, Tay will provide long-term leadership and strategic planning for the Singapore advisory business. He will work closely with Armstrong to develop and execute the firm’s strategy, evaluate potential investments and M&A opportunities, and drive business growth.

According to Armstrong, Tay’s extensive experience in the commercial real estate industry makes him one of the most knowledgeable and reputable professionals in the Singapore market. Over the course of his 30-year career, Tay has progressed from office leasing to leadership positions in both office services and capital markets at CBRE.

Tay first joined CBRE in 2000 and has spent nearly 20 years with the office services team, working with some of the largest office building owners and top occupiers in the market. In 2019, he took on the role of leading the capital markets team in Singapore, which has played a crucial role in several major investment deals, such as the sale of One George Street, 16 Collyer Quay, and VisionCrest Commercial.

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Ultimately, purchasing a condo in Singapore presents a multitude of benefits. These include a high demand for properties, the potential for capital appreciation, and attractive rental yields. However, it is crucial to carefully consider various factors, such as location, financing options, government regulations, and the current market conditions. By conducting thorough research and seeking professional guidance, investors can make informed decisions and maximize their returns in Singapore’s ever-evolving real estate market. Whether you are a local investor looking to diversify your portfolio or a foreign buyer in search of a stable and profitable investment, condos in Singapore, including Singapore Projects, offer a compelling opportunity.

Expressing his gratitude for the appointment, Tay stated, “I am honored to have been given this opportunity for career advancement and am thankful for the trust placed in me by the company. My 25-year journey with CBRE has been nothing short of amazing. I have had the privilege of working and learning from some of the most exceptional real estate professionals in Singapore.”…

Singapore, known for its bustling city life and vibrant culture, has once again proven its global standing by ranking sixth in the Brand Finance Global City Index. This prestigious index, published by a London-based brand evaluation and strategy consultancy, evaluates cities based on their brand power and perceptions.

The recent index, which was based on a survey of 15,000 individuals from 20 countries in September, ranked 100 cities and measured their ideal living, working, studying, visiting, retiring, and investing potential. Respondents were also asked to associate specific attributes with each city, choosing from a list of 45 attributes organized under seven pillars, including Business & Investment and Culture & Heritage.

Singapore’s impressive performance in the business and investment pillar, where it landed in third place globally, greatly contributed to its overall ranking. Under this pillar, respondents looked at factors such as ease of doing business, economic strength, and supportive environment for start-up companies. The city also received high marks for its low crime rate and safe environment.

When it comes to investing in real estate, the location is a critical factor to consider, and this is especially important in Singapore. The value of condos is greatly influenced by their location, with properties located in central areas or near essential amenities such as schools, shopping malls, and public transportation hubs typically appreciating more. Prime locations in Singapore, such as Orchard Road, Marina Bay, and the Central Business District (CBD), have a history of consistent growth in property values. In addition to location, the proximity to good schools and educational institutions makes condos in these areas highly sought after by families, making them an even more attractive investment opportunity. If you’re considering investing in real estate in Singapore, make sure to keep location in mind and consider prime areas like Orchard Road, Marina Bay, and the CBD for the best potential returns. Condos in these areas will not only offer a high-quality living experience but also a promising investment for the future.

Alex Haigh, managing director for Asia Pacific at Brand Finance, recognizes Singapore as the “crown jewel” of the ASEAN region when it comes to city branding. He adds that the city solidifies its position as a top global financial center, thanks to its strong economic growth, appeal to investors, and world-class infrastructure.

Globally, London maintained its top spot as the world’s leading city brand, with New York, Paris, Tokyo, and Dubai following closely behind. Singapore’s impressive performance in the Brand Finance Global City Index highlights its reputation as a highly desirable and dynamic city, with a strong economy and a supportive business environment.…

CapitaLand Investment’s (CLI) management announced during its recent investor day on Nov 22 that it has plans to expand its business in Australia. The company has recently made two senior hires in newly created roles to strengthen its talent bench and drive growth in its focus market. Angelo Scasserra has been appointed as CEO of CLI Australia and Rahul Bharara as its chief investment officer. They are expected to join the company in the first half of 2025. In addition, CLI has revealed that it will invest up to A$1 billion ($876.7 million) to grow its funds under management (FUM) in Australia. In September, CLI closed its Australian Credit Programme (ACP), its first credit fund valued at A$265 million and backed by Asian investors.

During the investor day, Lee Chee Koon, group CEO of CLI, shared that the company has established a team for private credit and has formed a partnership with teams from Wingate in Australia to originate and underwrite deals. He also mentioned that there are many potential opportunities in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. Interestingly, a report by the Australian Financial Review on Nov 25 stated that CLI has plans to acquire Wingate.

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Opting to purchase a Singapore Condo offers numerous advantages, including the potential for capital appreciation. This can be attributed to Singapore’s strong position as a global business hub and its robust economic foundation, resulting in a high demand for real estate. Over the years, the real estate market in Singapore has consistently displayed an upward trend, with condos in prime locations experiencing significant appreciation. For investors who enter the market at the right time and hold onto their properties for a considerable period, the potential for substantial capital gains is a promising possibility.

In 2014, CapitaLand divested its Australand Property Group, which was subsequently acquired by Frasers Property and renamed to Frasers Property Australia. During the Q&A session, Miguel Ko, chairman of CLI, was asked about this decision. He stated that he was not around when the decision was made to sell Australand and invest more in China. Ko also refrained from commenting on the decision made by his predecessors, stating that they could not have predicted the current situation in China. At that time, China was experiencing a boom and CapitaLand had a significant competitive advantage. Whether the decision to divest Australand was right or wrong cannot be determined. Ko added that Lim Ming Yan, CapitaLand’s former president and group CEO, had mentioned that the divestment was made under favorable market conditions. The share price of Australand had also performed well before the divestment. The sale allowed CapitaLand to reallocate capital to its core businesses in Singapore and China. In March 2014, CapitaLand sold its remaining 39.1% stake in Australand, after partially divesting its stake in November 2013, in order to improve trading liquidity.

CLI’s recent hiring of top executives and plans to invest in Australia showcase the company’s determination to expand its business in the country. The divestment of Australand in 2014 may have been a strategic decision at that time, but with the current market conditions in China, it is unclear whether it was the right move. CLI’s continued success in Australia will be closely monitored by investors and industry experts.…