Ang Chee Hian’s Take on How Global Trends Impact Singapore’s Real Estate Market
By ang chee hian 14-10-2025 37
Singapore’s real estate market doesn’t operate in isolation. While local factors like government policies and land supply play a big role, global trends also have a strong impact. From interest rate changes overseas to shifts in international trade, what happens globally often trickles down to the property market here.
In this blog, we explore how major global events and trends influence real estate in Singapore, and what investors should keep an eye on. These insights are based on the experience and observations of Ang Chee Hian, who has helped clients navigate changing markets with confidence.
Global Interest Rates and Capital Flow
One of the biggest influences on property markets worldwide is interest rates. When major economies like the US or Europe raise or cut their rates, it can affect borrowing costs and investment decisions in Singapore too.
For example, when global interest rates rise, local mortgage rates usually go up. This can lead to slower demand, especially for residential property. Investors may also become more cautious, choosing to hold off or look for lower-risk assets.
On the other hand, low global interest rates often encourage more capital to flow into property markets, including Singapore. Investors look for stable returns, and real estate becomes attractive compared to lower-yielding alternatives like bonds.
Foreign Investment Trends
Singapore is seen as a safe and stable place to invest. So when there’s uncertainty in other regions, investors often turn to Singapore as a place to protect their capital. This is especially true during global political tensions or economic slowdowns.
Foreign buyers are active in both the luxury residential and commercial segments. Their appetite often increases when their home countries face market risks, or when currency exchange rates work in their favour.
For example, a weaker Singapore dollar might make local properties more attractive to overseas buyers. This can push demand in prime districts or for high-value commercial units.
Trade Movements and Industrial Demand
Singapore’s role as a global trading hub means that changes in global trade can directly affect demand for industrial property. When international trade is strong, logistics, warehousing, and supply chain operations tend to grow. This increases the need for well-located industrial spaces.
However, when trade slows down due to tariffs, shipping delays, or changing trade agreements, the impact can be felt in the industrial real estate segment. Some businesses may scale back, delay expansion, or look for smaller spaces.
That said, strong fundamentals in Singapore’s infrastructure often help balance out these shifts over time.
Rise of Remote Work and Shifting Office Needs
Global work trends have changed quickly over the last few years. Remote and hybrid work models, which became popular in many countries, have reshaped how companies use office space.
In Singapore, this has led some firms to downsize, while others have chosen flexible layouts or co-working solutions. At the same time, demand remains stable for well-located, efficient office units that support collaboration and client meetings.
Investors in office property need to consider how these global work trends influence local preferences. The type, size, and layout of office space all play a role in long-term rental returns.
Supply Chain Shifts and Warehouse Growth
With global supply chains being restructured in recent years, many companies have started to move operations closer to key markets or diversify their logistics networks. This shift has supported demand for warehouse and logistics properties in Singapore.
Companies are looking for modern, efficient spaces to support fast delivery, cold storage, or automation. Older industrial units may struggle to meet these needs, while well-located warehouses with the right features are seeing strong demand.
This trend highlights the importance of selecting the right type of industrial property, especially if you want to attract high-quality tenants for the long term.
Sustainability and ESG Preferences
Sustainability is no longer just a trend. Around the world, there is growing demand for buildings that meet certain green or environmental standards. Investors, tenants, and even banks are paying more attention to properties that align with sustainability goals.
In Singapore, this has led to increased demand for energy-efficient buildings, especially in the commercial segment. Properties that meet green building standards or offer lower energy costs may attract more tenants and even enjoy higher valuation over time.
Keeping up with these expectations is becoming part of long-term planning for many investors.
Conclusion
Singapore’s real estate market is deeply connected to what happens around the world. From interest rate movements to changes in trade and work habits, global events continue to shape local demand across all property types.
By staying aware of these trends and choosing the right assets, investors can make smarter decisions that stand the test of time.
As Ang Chee Hian highlights, those who succeed in property investment are often the ones who understand both local conditions and global forces. He advises looking beyond short-term noise and focusing on long-term shifts that shape how people live, work, and do business. Whether it’s the flow of foreign capital or the rise of new industries, the key is to stay informed and choose wisely.
Looking to invest wisely in Singapore’s real estate? Get in touch for personalized support and strategies.
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