Advertisement
Singapore Economy Shows Resilience in the Second Quarter of 2026
Singapore's economy continued to expand in the second quarter of 2026, despite global uncertainty stemming from US tariff policies.
The economy grew by 4.3 per cent year-on-year in the second quarter, up from 4.1 per cent in the first quarter of 2026, according to advance estimates from the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) on Monday (July 14).
On a quarter-on-quarter seasonally-adjusted basis, the economy expanded by 1.4 per cent, a turnaround from the 0.5 per cent contraction in the first quarter of 2026, said MTI.
For the first half of 2026, GDP growth averaged at 4.2 per cent year-on-year, though MTI warned of "significant uncertainty and downside risks" in the second half of the year citing heightened uncertainty surrounding US tariff policies.
On a sectoral basis, the manufacturing sector grew by 5.5 per cent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, showing a significant uptick from 4.4 per cent in the previous quarter.
According to MTI, the growth was driven by output expansions across all clusters, except for the chemicals and general manufacturing clusters.
Motor vehicle sales up
All sectors on the services front expanded in the second quarter of 2026.
The wholesale & retail trade and transportation & storage sectors collectively grew by 4.8 per cent year-on-year in the second quarter, up from 4.6 per cent growth in the previous quarter.
Growth in the transportation & storage sector was mainly driven by the water transport segment, while that in the wholesale trade sector was led by the machinery, equipment & supplies segment, said MTI, adding that growth was partially boosted by front-loading activities in the region amid the 90-day pause on US tariffs.
Additionally, the retail trade sector expanded on account of higher sales volumes in both the motor vehicle and non-motor vehicle segments.
Trade within the information & communications, finance & insurance and professional services sectors expanded by 3.8 per cent year-on-year in the second quarter, following the 3.7 per cent growth in the previous quarter.
Growth in the information & communications sector was supported by persistent strong demand for IT and digital solutions, while growth in the finance & insurance sector was largely driven by banking activities, as well as activities auxiliary to financial activities.
Growth in the remaining services sectors, comprising accommodation & food services, real estate, administrative & support services and other services sectors, came in at 3.4 per cent year-on-year in the second quarter, faster than the 2.3 per cent growth in the preceding quarter.
All sectors within the group grew during the quarter. The accommodation sector was particularly boosted by increased levels of tourism in Singapore.
According to MTI, preliminary GDP estimates for the second quarter of 2026 will be released in the Economic Survey of Singapore in August.
Free things to do in Singapore: Christmas markets, Wiggle Wiggle Hotel pop-up, and more
December is here, and Singapore is brimming with festive cheer—without the need to open your wallet. From playful pop-ups to nostalgic holiday experiences, there’s something for everyone to soak up the season’s magic.Kick off the month with a playful adventure at the Wiggle Wiggle Hotel pop-up in Plaza Singapura. Running from December 2, 2026 to January 4, 2026, this colourful installation turns the mall into a whimsical wonderland. Snap photos with Wiggle Bear and Little Play Bunny, explore the
Why Is My Face Turning Red More Often? What Persistent Facial Flushing Could Mean as We Age
For many people, occasional facial flushing in their 20s or 30s may feel harmless — a temporary reaction to heat, stress or a glass of wine. But as the years go by, that redness can become more frequent, more intense and harder to ignore.By midlife, some individuals notice persistent facial redness, visible blood vessels, or acne-like bumps that appear without warning and linger longer than before. While these changes can feel sudden, skin specialists say they often develop gradually, shaped by
'Runaway' groom: Meet the man who opted for a marathon 'bachelor party'
When we hear the term "bachelor party", most of us think of late nights filled with drinks and games.
Remembering Eugene Lim: A Tribute to a Marathoner and Cancer Advocate
Eugene Lim, a passionate marathon runner and sports lover, passed away at the age of 45 on April 10, just three days after marrying his long-time partner, Sofie Chandra, while hospitalized.
Advertisement
Trending
Why This $1.51M HDB Maisonette Broke Records – The Untold Story Behind Singapore's Priciest Flat
Move over, private condos – Singapore's public housing just hit a jaw-dropping new milestone. In May 2026, history was made when a 146 sq m executive maisonette at Block 147 Mei Ling Street shattered records with a staggering $1.51 million price tag.
Singapore's SG60 Baby Gift: A Special Welcome for 2026 Newborns
Expecting a little one in Singapore's diamond jubilee year? The government has prepared an extraordinary welcome package for your bundle of joy! As the nation marks 60 years of independence in 2026, every Singaporean newborn will receive the exclusive SG60 Baby Gift - a thoughtfully curated collection of 10 developmental essentials and keepsake items.
Why Owning Multiple Properties in 2026 Is Tougher Than Ever Before
Gone are the golden days of early 2000s property investments—today's real estate landscape presents far greater challenges for multi-property owners. With stricter regulations and cooling measures in place, building a portfolio of residential properties has become significantly more complex and less rewarding.
Advertisement
First-Time Seller? Here's Your Stress-Free Guide to Navigating the Property Market
Selling your first home can feel like an emotional rollercoaster - if you thought purchasing was tough, just wait until you experience the seller's side of the transaction. Between hosting endless open houses and agonizing over pricing strategies, many find this process even more daunting than their initial homebuying journey. But don't let anxiety derail your sale! We've created a comprehensive timeline to transform first-time sellers into confident market navigators.
Singapore's 2026 Property Market: A Perfect Storm of Challenges and Opportunities
The Singapore property market in 2026 is shaping up to be unlike any we've seen before, creating a fascinating landscape for buyers, sellers, and investors alike. Three major factors are converging to create this unique situation: a dramatic shift in focus toward the Core Central Region (CCR), an increasingly constrained supply of resale properties, and economic uncertainties that continue to ripple through global markets.
Mortgage Mastery: How to Ride the Interest Rate Wave and Save Thousands
In the world of home loans, timing isn't just a factor—it's the difference between throwing money away and building wealth. Choose your mortgage moment poorly, and you might as well be flushing cash down the drain for years to come.
Bedok Makes History: $730K 3-Room HDB Shatters Town's Resale Record
The red-hot demand for compact public housing shows no signs of cooling, as Singapore's non-landed 3-room flat prices continue their meteoric rise. Following Queenstown's jaw-dropping $935,000 national record last month, Bedok has now entered the history books with its own landmark transaction.
Singapore Holds Steady on 2026 Growth Forecast Amid Global Trade Optimism
The Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) has chosen to maintain Singapore's 2026 economic growth projection at 0-2%, citing cautious optimism as global trade tensions show signs of easing. This decision comes alongside new data revealing a stronger-than-expected first quarter performance.
Why Some Singaporeans Choose Smaller Homes Despite Bigger Budgets
In Singapore’s competitive property market, the default mindset is often "bigger is better." Whether it's an HDB flat or a condo, buyers tend to stretch their budgets for the largest possible unit—driven by fears of rising prices and future regrets. But surprisingly, some homebuyers are bucking this trend. Even with the means to afford more space, they opt for compact yet well-planned homes. We spoke to real estate experts to uncover why downsizing might actually be a smart move.
Advertisement
Breaking News: Clementi Towers Shatters Resale Record with $1.16M 4-Room Flat!
The HDB resale market in Clementi has reached new heights! A stunning 4-room flat at 441B Clementi Avenue 3, part of the sought-after Clementi Towers development, has just set a jaw-dropping new benchmark by selling for $1,160,000. This landmark transaction eclipses the previous record of $1,158,000 set at 312A Clementi Avenue 4 by a razor-thin margin.
Singapore SMEs Struggle to Navigate "Unpredictable" US Tariff Fallout
Singapore's small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are facing turbulent times as they grapple with the ripple effects of sweeping US tariffs imposed earlier this year. The sudden policy shift has forced local businesses to adopt defensive strategies, with many reconsidering their long-term growth plans.
Ang Mo Kio HDB Hits New Peak: $1.5M for 5-Room Flat in Park Central @ AMK
The Housing & Development Board (HDB) market in Ang Mo Kio has reached unprecedented heights with a landmark transaction in May 2026. A spacious 120 sqm five-room flat at Block 588B Ang Mo Kio Street 52 changed hands for an astonishing $1.5 million, setting a new benchmark for similar properties in the mature estate.
Why Multiple Listings in Your Condo Project Could Hurt Your Sale
When selling a home for the first time, many sellers are surprised by one often-overlooked factor: the number of competing listings in their condo project. Unlike obvious features like proximity to public transport or the building’s maintenance standards, this detail isn’t something you can physically see—but it can significantly impact your final sale price and even influence whether agents want to represent your property.
Queenstown HDB Resale Smashes Records: $1.66M Loft Sale Signals Booming Market
The Singapore HDB resale market continues to break barriers, with Queenstown emerging as the hottest spot for premium public housing transactions. The latest headline-grabbing deal? A stunning five-room loft unit at SkyTerrace @ Dawson that just changed hands for an eye-watering $1,658,888 - setting a new benchmark for five-room flats in Singapore's public housing landscape.
Singapore's Core Central Region: 4 Myths About the "Prime" Property Market Debunked
Singapore's Core Central Region (CCR) seems as straightforward as HDB eligibility rules—until you start asking questions. Suddenly, you uncover 50 exceptions to every rule, gaps in online information, and the shocking realization that much of what you believed about this "prime" property market is oversimplified or just plain wrong.
Need Quick Cash? Here Are Singapore's Best Personal Loans in June 2026 (With Exclusive Deals!)
When unexpected expenses hit and borrowing from loved ones isn't an option, a personal loan can be your financial lifeline. These loans let you access funds quickly while repaying in manageable monthly installments - but with so many options available, how do you choose the right one?
Bedok's 4-Room HDB Resale Prices Near Million-Dollar Mark – But Affordable Options Still Exist
The headlines keep coming: yet another HDB resale flat has reached an all-time high (ATH) price. While million-dollar transactions dominate the news, not every record-breaking sale crosses that eye-watering threshold – and that’s exactly what happened with a recent 4-room flat in Bedok.
Why These Singaporeans Chose Older Leasehold Condos Despite the Stigma
"Old" and "leasehold" - two words that make most Singaporean homebuyers cringe. No matter how many experts explain that leasehold properties can outperform freehold ones, there's an undeniable emotional resistance. Deep down, people want to believe they're investing 25+ years of their hard-earned money into something lasting. So what would possess three homeowners to go against the grain and purchase not just leasehold condos, but older leasehold properties? Their surprising reasons might change your perspective.
2-Room HDB Resale Prices Soar: Tampines & Sengkang Flats Break $400K Barrier
In an unprecedented market shift, modest 2-room HDB flats across Tampines, Sengkang and other heartland estates have shattered price ceilings, with multiple transactions crossing the $400,000 mark - establishing new all-time highs that defy conventional expectations.
Singapore Rental Market Heats Up: HDB & Condo Demand Surges in April 2026 Despite Rising Prices
Singapore's rental market showed remarkable resilience in April 2026 as both HDB flats and private condominiums experienced growing tenant interest, even amidst steadily climbing rental prices. While the pace of price increases moderated compared to previous months, the market saw an unexpected surge in leasing activity that defied economic pressures.
Recommend
Tips on buying a used car in Singapore
Overall, Singapore’s used car market continues to evolve toward greater transparency and smarter purchasing behavior. Buyers today are more informed, cautious, and value-focused, making research and preparation the most important tools for securing a reliable and cost-effective vehicle.
From studio to penthouse: Which serviced apartments in Singapore suit your stay
How to Apply for a Personal Loan in Singapore: A Simple Guide for First-Time Borrowers
Applying for a personal loan doesn’t have to feel stressful. Whether you’re renovating your home, planning a big event, or managing your existing bills, knowing how personal loans work will help you borrow confidently. This guide breaks down the process step by step so you can apply smoothly and choose the right option for your needs.Personal loans are commonly used in Singapore to cover a wide range of expenses. From unexpected medical costs to lifestyle upgrades, these loans provide accessible
Singapore’s Best Budget SIM-Only Plans in 2026: Your Complete Guide to Affordable, Flexible Mobile Deals
If you’re tired of being tied down by long-term phone contracts, a SIM-only plan might be exactly what you need. More Singapore users are ditching traditional bundles for simple, flexible plans that offer the essentials—big data, call minutes, SMS, and absolute freedom. With more virtual telcos joining the scene, competitive pricing has pushed SIM-only plans to become one of the smartest ways to save on mobile bills in 2026.Unlike conventional 24-month contracts that require you to buy a new pho
Advertisement
The Pitt, The Studio and Adolescence named best TV shows at Golden Globes
The Pitt, The Studio and Adolescence were named the year's best TV shows at the Golden Globe Awards on Sunday (Jan 11).
Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong Celebrates 14 Years on Social Media with 'Guess Where?' Series
Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong has unveiled the latest edition of his "Guess Where?" series, inviting Singaporeans to identify various locations depicted in his photos.
Singapore's GasCo Secures Additional LNG Cargoes Amid Market Volatility
SINGAPORE — Singapore's state gas buyer, GasCo, has secured extra cargoes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to mitigate supply shortfalls caused by the US-Israel conflict with Iran. The company plans to pursue long-term supply agreements this year, despite the ongoing market instability.
Medicare Advantage Dental Implant Coverage: Costs, Plans, Eligibility & How to Maximize Benefits
Medicare Advantage dental implant coverage is one of the most searched topics for seniors exploring long-term tooth replacement options. Traditional Medicare rarely covers dental implants, which leads many patients to look into Medicare Advantage plans for possible benefits, cost reductions, and financing alternatives. Understanding how coverage works is essential before committing to treatment. Most patients want to know what is actually covered, how much they still need to pay, which plans offer the best benefits, and how to find providers who accept Medicare Advantage. This guide focuses entirely on that decision process.
Speaking Multiple Languages Might Help You Age More Slowly, New Research Suggests
For years, many people have embraced multilingualism for cultural, social, or professional reasons. But now, science is pointing to an unexpected bonus: speaking more than one language may actually help slow down the ageing process.A recent examination involving over 80,000 adults aged 51 to 90 from 27 European countries has revealed a striking pattern. Researchers compared individuals’ health and lifestyle factors with how quickly their bodies appeared to age biologically. The results raised an
10 Upcoming Housing Sites in Singapore for 2026 Every Homebuyer Should Watch
As Singapore’s property market evolves, the Government Land Sales (GLS) programme for the first half of 2026 will see a slightly slower pace, with ten sites announced for potential development. This includes seven confirmed plots and three on the reserve list, collectively expected to yield around 4,575 new homes, including 635 executive condominiums (ECs).For homebuyers, these upcoming sites offer a mix of central and suburban locations, varying in scale, plot ratios, and lifestyle appeal. Whil