How a S$3 Billion Scandal Stalled Singapore’s Luxury Car Market

If you’ve been dreaming of cruising down Orchard Road in a sleek Ferrari or a posh Rolls-Royce, you might want to pump the brakes on those plans. Let’s talk about the S$3 billion scandal that took a toll on luxury car sales.

S$3 BILLION SCANDAL

Singapore’s luxury car sales have experienced a significant decline, directly linked to a large-scale S$3 billion money-laundering case. In response, the government has increased taxes on luxury vehicles and implemented stricter financial checks to prevent illicit funds from entering the market.

STRICTER REGULATIONS

In light of the scandal,  authorities have introduced more rigorous oversight. Luxury car dealerships and other sellers of high-value goods are now required to conduct deeper investigations into their clients’ financial backgrounds and report any suspicious activities.

SALES TAKE A SHARP DECLINE

Prestigious brands such as Bentley, Ferrari, Jaguar, and Rolls-Royce have seen sales plunge by up to 75% in 2024 compared to the previous year. A key factor is a shift in consumer behavior, with buyers opting for a more discreet approach to avoid regulatory scrutiny.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Additionally, stricter due diligence checks and higher luxury car taxes further dampened sales. Meanwhile, the broader car market is moving in the opposite direction, with overall new registrations surging by 42% in 2024.

EVs GAIN TRACTION

As the luxury car segment slows, electric vehicles are gaining popularity. Chinese manufacturer BYD has reported increased sales as more consumers pivot toward eco-friendly and less ostentatious alternatives.

IN A NUTSHELL

For potential luxury car buyers, especially younger consumers, this may be a moment to reconsider their choices. As electric vehicles become more fashionable and practical, they may present a compelling alternative for those seeking both style and substance.

Sources: 1,2, & 3

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5 events under $50 in Singapore to go to this April 2025

Event in Singapore under $50

No plans for April and need to have one because you don’t want your start in Q2 of 2025 to be boring?

Good for you because we’ve got a quick list of events under $50 for you right here.

Browse and book your tix quickly though! 🎫

Statement Piece by Checkpoint Theatre R18 (MATURE CONTENT)

Statement Piece by Checkpoint Theatre

When: Thu, 3 Apr 2025 – Sun, 13 Apr 2025

Tickets: priced at $45

Having stunned audiences with the sold-out hit ‘Brown Boys Don’t Tell Jokes’, playwright Myle Yan Tay returns with another play: Statement Piece.

This drama follows a young gallerist’s first major exhibition that spirals into chaos.

As her career teeters, a question emerges: how far would you go in the name of art?

Tackling themes like community and the sacrifices we make, Statement Piece is all about ambition, identity, and the price of art.

Esplanade Presents National Theatre Live – Hamlet (Encore Screening) – PG

Hamlet (Encore Screening)

When: Thu, 17 Apr 2025, 7.30 pm

Tickets: priced at $28

Benedict Cumberbatch commands the screen in this encore of the National Theater Live’s Hamlet adaptation—one of Shakespeare’s most celebrated yet searing tragedies.

Hamlet’s quest for vengeance threatens not only his psyche but the security of the entire state.

Directed by Lyndsey Turner and produced by Sonia Friedman Productions.

A FRENCH KISS IN SINGAPORE [Rating: ADVISORY (SOME SEXUAL REFERENCES)]

A FRENCH KISS IN SINGAPORE

When: Thu, 17 Apr 2025 – Sun, 27 Apr 2025

Tickets: priced from $40

Romance takes center stage in this cultural crossover celebrating France’s singer-songwriters with a Singaporean twist.

Starring local performer Hossan Leong and other musical talents, this reimagined production combines French elegance with Singaporean flavor.

At times humorous, others touchingly poignant, A French Kiss in Singapore captures love’s many unpredictable facets.

Originally created by George Chan; directed by Hossan Leong.

SSO Chamber Series: Deep Dive

SSO Chamber Series - Deep Dive

When: Fri, 25 Apr 2025, 7.30 pm

Tickets: priced at $20

For one night only, watch and listen to how Singapore’s finest musicians take the stage to premiere a new commission by homegrown composer Joyce Koh, her creation “Deep Dive” making waves alongside masterworks by Hummel.

To be exact, Hummel’s “Piano Quintet in E-flat minor” will showcase the power of the piano.

Also, no classical experience would be complete without Brahms’ heartfelt “First Piano Trio”.

Join the musicians of the Singapore Symphony at Victoria Concert Hall for an evening of quality music at just $20/ticket.

Bizet’s Carmen by Singapore Lyric Opera [G]

Bizet’s Carmen by Singapore Lyric Opera

When: Fri, 25 Apr 2025, 7.30 pm & Sat, 26 Apr 2025, 7.30 pm

Tickets: priced from $38

To end April right, experience Bizet’s Carmen with Singapore Lyric Opera’s (SLO) new adaptation set of 1960s Singapore.

The free-spirited Carmen charms all in this semi-staged international opera production celebrating SG60 and the SLO’s 35th anniversary.

Featuring a talented cast from France, Philippines, Singapore, and beyond, the opera will be sung in French with English subtitles.

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Stay Cool in Style with 5 Handheld Fans in Singapore

My sister and mom recently visited Vietnam, and they told me how hot it was there. Thankfully, they had their trusty handheld fans. As I prepare for my own trip, I’m bringing cooling mists as well.

Singapore’s sweltering heat can be a real mood-killer, but don’t sweat it! We’ve got the coolest lineup of handheld fans to keep you feeling fresh on the go. Whether you’re power-walking down Orchard Road or jet-setting to your next destination, these fans will be your breezy best friends!

#1: KONKA PORTABLE USB FAN

Why settle for just a fan when you can have a fan and a power bank? The Konka Portable USB Fan does both! With its 2,000mAh battery, you can recharge your devices while staying cool. Its foldable design is perfect for tossing in your bag without taking up much space.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • 2-in-1 fan and power bank (2,000mAh capacity)
  • Sleek, foldable design
  • Lightweight for easy portability
  • Price: Approx. S$39.90

#2: MOMAX IF15 ULTRA FREEZE

When regular fans won’t cut it, the Momax IF15 Ultra Freeze steps up the game. It features a unique ice compress cooling pad that adds an extra chill to your breeze. The ergonomic design fits comfortably in your hand, and its multiple speed settings let you customize your cool.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Ice compress technology for an ultra-cool sensation
  • Ergonomic grip for all-day comfort
  • Adjustable speed settings for personalized cooling
  • Price: Approx. S$49.90

#3: JISULIFE LIFE7

This sleek, ultra-portable fan punches above its weight with impressive cooling power. With a battery life of up to 20 hours and three speed settings, it keeps you chill during the most hectic days. Bonus: It folds neatly to fit into even the tiniest of bags!

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Long-lasting battery (up to 20 hours)
  • Lightweight and portable (only 104g)
  • Foldable handle doubles as a stand
  • Price: Approx. S$23

    Image Credits: JisuLife Flagship Store via Facebook

Also Read: Best Handheld Fans to Beat the Heat for Under S$30

#4: VERYPERI LEAFLESS COOLING NECK FAN

Want to stay cool without lifting a finger? The VeryPeri Leafless Cooling Neck Fan delivers hands-free airflow with a modern, bladeless design. Just pop it around your neck and enjoy a continuous breeze without the hassle.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Stylish, lightweight design
  • Safe bladeless technology
  • Adjustable speeds for optimal comfort
  • Price: Approx. S$29.90 – S$39.90

#5: MINTHOUZ PORTABLE STROLLER FAN

Keeping little ones cool has never been easier. The Minthouz Portable Stroller Fan features flexible tripod legs that attach to strollers, car seats, or desks. It even has an aromatherapy option to keep mosquitoes at bay—perfect for outdoor family days!

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Flexible tripod legs for easy attachment
  • Aromatherapy feature to repel insects
  • Rechargeable and super portable
  • Price: Approx. S$17.66

    Image Credits: shopee.sg

IN A NUTSHELL

Whether you’re commuting, traveling, or just out and about, these handheld fans make beating the Singapore heat easy and breezy!

Note: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on the retailer.

Sources: 1 & 2

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Weirdest Items You Can Buy from Daiso or Don Don Donki

When it comes to quirky, offbeat, and straight-up bizarre finds, few stores do it better than Daiso and Don Don Donki. Whether you’re looking to add some weirdness to your everyday life or just want a hilarious conversation starter, these Japanese retail giants have got you covered. From wacky gadgets to oddly practical innovations, here are some of the strangest things you can snag from their shelves.

DAISO

1. Let’s Make Ramen Tool Set

Why settle for plain ol’ playdough when you can craft your own pretend ramen? This playful toolset lets you make mini noodle masterpieces out of clay (or playdough) but heads up, the clay isn’t included, so you’ll need to stock up first. Perfect for future noodle chefs or anyone looking to relive their childhood in the weirdest way possible. Watch it in action!

2. Chair Leg Foot Covers

Cute and functional? Say less. These adorable covers slip onto your chair legs to keep them from scratching floors or making that screeching noise that could turn your neighbor against you. They’re a low-key lifesaver, especially if you live in a thin-walled apartment. Bonus: they come in fun designs because plain furniture is just boring.

3. Sausage Cutter Set

Kyaraben (character bento) is serious business in Japan, and this sausage cutter set makes it easier to add some flair to your lunch. Transform your basic Vienna sausages into tiny octopuses, chicks, or pigs because why eat boring food when it can be cute and a little creepy? We’re still scratching our heads over the top sausage design, though.

4. Splat Poo Ball

Feeling stressed? Throw some poo literally. This squishy, slimy poo ball splats on surfaces and magically reshapes itself. It’s weird, it’s gross, and it’s weirdly satisfying. A perfect desk toy or an unconventional gift for that one chaotic friend we all have.

Image Credits: mobal.com/blog/travel-talk/15-crazy-things-weve-bought-from-daiso

DON DON DONKI

1. Wasabi KitKat

Japan’s KitKat game is unmatched, and the wasabi flavor takes the crown for weirdness. We haven’t been brave enough to try them, but if you love a kick of spice with your chocolate, this one’s for you. Are they sweet? Are they spicy? Only one way to find out.

2. Handy Beer Server

Who needs a bartender when you have this beer-foaming gadget? It delivers the perfect frothy head on your beer, right from your own fridge. The wildest part? One version features a tiny cupid peeing into your glass. Classy? Debatable. Hilarious? Absolutely.

Image Credits: timeout.com/hong-kong/shopping/10-peculiar-things-you-can-find-at-don-don-donki-today

3. Vermicelli Peeler

Level up your healthy eating game with this quirky veggie peeler that turns your produce into thin, noodle-like strips. Say goodbye to carb-heavy pasta and hello to zucchini spaghetti. It’s the tool you didn’t know you needed but now totally want.

4. Peach-Scented Toilet Paper

Why should your bathroom routine be boring? With this peach-scented toilet paper, even your trips to the loo can be a sweet-smelling experience.

Image Credits: homeanddecor.com.sg/shopping/18-wacky-and-affordable-household-items-from-don-don-donki

Because if your bum could talk, it would probably say, “Thank you.”

Sources: 1,2, & 3

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Gold Price Surges Past US$3,100 for the First Time Amid Global Uncertainty

Gold prices soared to a new all-time high during early Asian sessions on Monday, with spot gold breaking above US$3,100 an ounce for the first time in history. The surge comes as growing political tensions and financial market jitters continue to push investors towards safer assets.

The rally was largely driven by mounting fears of a global trade war, sparked by U.S. President Donald Trump’s latest move to impose new tariffs. The development has heightened uncertainty across global markets, prompting a flight to safety and driving strong demand for gold.

Image credit: Dhaka Tribune

With both geopolitical and economic tensions rising, gold is once again proving to be the go-to safe-haven asset.

This sharp uptrend marks a continuation of gold’s bullish streak in recent months, supported by broader concerns around slowing global growth, volatile stock markets, and a weaker U.S. dollar. The latest price action reflects just how nervous investors have become amid shifting policies and uncertain global outlooks.

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