In Focus

HSBC: Singapore economy's recovery “too fast to last”

The bank says growth in 2011 is projected to slow to 4.7% (from 4.5%) y-o-y after bouncing back at “Formula 1 speed” for the first half of this year.

In Focus

Colgate brushed aside by Google as Singaporeans favorite brand

The latest Superbrands survey also revealed that while four Singapore brands made it to the top ten list, NTUC FairPrice is the highest ranked homegrown brand.

In Focus

Singapore seen to slide from first to sixth fast-growing economy in 2011

OCBC Bank said even the MAS is already comfortable with the probability of a 4-6% growth next year as no change to monetary policy outlook is likely to be made in the interim.

In Focus

Singapore's yuppies couldn't care less about marketing themselves

78% of employees from Generation X are prepared to spend their own money on training to upgrade their skills as opposed to 70% of Generation Y yuppies and 68% of baby boomers, according to the latest Kelly Global Workforce Index.

In Focus

Singapore's October exports up 20%

Singapore’s total exports grew in October by 20 per cent y-o-y from 18 per cent in September. It also grew by 3.2 per cent m-o-m from -4.2 per cent in September. Importantly, non-oil domestic exports or NODX, a better gauge of external end-demand, also gained pace, up by 35 per cent y-o-y from 23% in September. According to the HSBC Research Global, this was well-above its forecast of 26.4% y-o-y and that of consensus 26.6 per cent y-o-y.

In Focus

The Land of the Rising Sun outshines The Lion City as Asia's top country brand

Singapore might be trailing behind Japan in terms of technology, workforce competitiveness and quality of education, but the city state remains the top choice of job seekers and investors for growth opportunities.

In Focus

Employees better not cry: 91% of Singapore companies won't lay off staff until Christmas

Less than a tenth of employers will be reducing their staff numbers in 4Q10, but the number is still higher than the comparative 4Q figure for China (2%) and Hong Kong (5%).

In Focus

Still no place like home: 70% of investors averse to expanding their portfolios abroad

Singapore and Hong Kong are the only Asian countries attractive to 30% of investors prepared to venture outside their local markets, a new survey revealed.

In Focus

74% of Singaporeans happy with their current jobs, but would be happier if their paychecks are raised

Over three-quarters of employees in Singapore are content with their present employers-- with under two-fifths planning a job switch over the next 12 months— but they also expect a year-end salary increase.

In Focus

The little nation that could: Singapore leaves big countries biting its dust

Singapore tops the World Bank’s list of countries with the most business-friendly regulations for the record fifth time as companies remain satisfied with the ease of conducting business in the country.

In Focus

Hiring on hold: 70% of Singapore companies putting off recruitment until 2011

After receiving an influx of new employees in the first half of 2010, retaining top performers is now the priority of 60% of businesses for the remainder of the year.

In Focus

The shopping spree continues: Only 1 in 10 Singaporeans feel the recession

Unwavering confidence in the economy prompts 51% of Singapore consumers to splurge on new clothes, gadgets and travel in the here and now as compared to the global average of 35%.

In Focus

Mad as hell but we still take it: 57% of Singaporeans complain work/life balance unattainable

Employers believe employees’ better work/life balance translates to increased productivity and improved staff retention and loyalty.

In Focus

Study shows Singaporeans more concerned about economy than climate change

Singapore scored low on its commitment to take action to reduce climate change with 28%, compared to the Asia Pacific average of 34%.

In Focus

Suspected pirates board Singapore-registered vessel

The Liquefied Petroleum Gas vessel named YORK was said to be on its way to Seychelles when the suspected pirates boarded at approximately 90 nautical miles from Mombasa, Kenya.

In Focus