Singapore Dominates Asia-Pacific Real Estate Investments, Plans for ‘Long Island’ Reclamation, and Other Top News Highlights

Singapore has been making headlines in the Asia-Pacific real estate landscape, overtaking the US in investments. Additionally, ambitious plans for a reclaimed area known as ‘Long Island’ and major developments in the flexible workspace sector are shaping the nation’s future. Here’s a roundup of the latest news:

1. Singapore Overtakes US in Asia-Pacific Real Estate Investments: In a significant shift, Singapore has become the leading investor in Asia-Pacific real estate, injecting nearly US$8.5 billion Year-to-Date (YTD). This marks the first time Singapore has surpassed the US in cross-border investment, reflecting the strength of the Singaporean dollar and the strategic deployment of equity by private offices and government-linked companies (GLCs).
2. ‘Long Island’ Reclamation Project Unveiled: Minister for National Development, Desmond Lee, revealed plans for the ambitious ‘Long Island’ reclamation project off the East Coast. Envisioned as a 800ha reclaimed area, twice the size of Marina Bay, the project aims to address Singapore’s future housing needs and climate change concerns. The island will integrate coastal protection measures, create a freshwater reservoir, and offer opportunities for housing, jobs, and amenities.
3. The Executive Centre’s Expansion: The Executive Centre, a leading flexible workspace provider, is set to open its eighth center in Singapore at the Singapore Land Tower in January 2024. With 50,720 sq ft of space spanning three floors, including private offices and a member lounge, the move responds to the growing demand for office space in Singapore, driven by MNCs establishing offices and a return-to-office trend.
4. Orchard Road Retail Rents on the Rise: Savills Singapore projects a 6% year-on-year growth in Orchard Road retail rents for 2023, driven by the ongoing recovery in tourist arrivals. The positive performance in 3Q2023 saw higher rents in Orchard area malls, supported by increased visitor arrivals and a reduction in islandwide vacancy for retail space. The report also highlights changes in the fitness and wellness industry and predicts continued growth in prime areas like Orchard Road.
5. Raffles Town Club Site Redevelopment: The lease for the Raffles Town Club site in Bukit Timah, measuring approximately 132,639 sq ft, will not be renewed after it expires in October 2026. The Singapore Land Authority (SLA) and URA jointly announced plans for future residential development on the site, emphasizing its contribution to meeting housing demand and enhancing the precinct’s residential character.
6. Auction of Strata Retail Units at People’s Park Complex: Two separate strata retail units at People’s Park Complex in Chinatown were auctioned on November 16 by Knight Frank Singapore. The indicative guide prices were set at $1.8 million for a 452 sq ft unit on the second level and $800,000 for a 484 sq ft unit on the fourth level. Both units are currently tenanted, presenting investment opportunities in a popular tourist destination.
7. Asia Pacific Investment Volumes Decline in 3Q2023: JLL reports a 22% year-on-year contraction in commercial real estate investment activity in the Asia-Pacific region in 3Q2023. The decline is attributed to a drop in office and retail deals, with investors showing caution in the office sector due to high debt costs. Notable variations include China’s active market and Singapore’s investment volumes falling 11% year-on-year.
8. Samsung SDS Tower Sale Sets Record in South Korea: Colliers successfully brokered the sale of the Samsung SDS Tower to KB Asset Management for US$630 million, marking the largest trade in South Korea and the Asia-Pacific region in 2023. The 1,071,407 sq ft property in the Gangnam Business District represents the largest single-asset office transaction in the region this year.
9. WeWork Files for Bankruptcy: WeWork, once a high-flying startup, filed for bankruptcy, reflecting its ongoing struggle to recover from the pandemic and its failed initial public offering in 2019. The filing, which includes assets and liabilities ranging from US$10 billion to US$50 billion, comes after a debt restructuring deal earlier in 2023 and challenges in renegotiating leases.

Singapore’s real estate sector continues to be a focal point of dynamic developments, showcasing the nation’s adaptability and resilience in the face of evolving market trends. The strategic shift where Singapore overtakes the US in Asia-Pacific real estate investments underscores the attractiveness of the market for both local and international investors.

As the landscape evolves, notable projects like the ‘Long Island’ reclamation initiative present exciting prospects for future growth and sustainable urban development. Furthermore, The Executive Centre’s expansion and the auction of strata retail units at People’s Park Complex highlight the continued interest and opportunities in Singapore’s commercial and retail real estate sectors.

Amidst these trends, Union Square Residences emerges as a noteworthy opportunity for potential buyers. In the current real estate market environment, Union Square Residences stands out as a promising investment, offering a strategic entry point into Singapore’s vibrant property market. As the nation’s real estate scene evolves, Union Square Residences represents a chance to participate in the ongoing transformation and growth of Singapore’s real estate sector.

Article was updated on 8 Jan 2024 for its accuracy.