At the relaunch of luxury condo Cuscaden Reserve, 45 (57%) of 79 units released were sold by private placement at the close of March 16, according to Dominic Lee, head of luxury team at PropNex.
Over 80 cheques were collected as expressions of interest (EOI) during the two-week preview that began on March 2. “I think it is very encouraging because close to 60% of the total units released were sold in this phase,” says Ken Low, managing partner of SRI. Units sold were predominantly two-bedroom types, starting from $2.292 million or $2,823 psf, notes PropNex’s Lee. Only one unit sold was a three-bedroom. Based on Huttons Data Analytics' internal data, one-third of the buyers at Cuscaden Reserve are below 35. Mark Yip, CEO of Hutton Asia, observes that the buyers were either Singaporeans or permanent residents (PRs) buying their first property. There was an even split between those buying for their own stay and those buying for investment, adds Yip. The strong sales were attributed to the joint developers -- SC Global, New World Development and Far East Consortium – slashing selling prices by as much as 20%. "The attractive quantum of around $2.4 million for a two-bedroom unit, good location and prestigious address attracted strong interest from buyers," says Yip. The 192-unit Cuscaden Reserve is located on Cuscaden Road in prime District 10, off Orchard Boulevard. The luxury condo was completed in August 2023. Typical units at Cuscaden Reserve are a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments from 700 sq ft to 1,163 sq ft. There are six 2,099 sq ft four-bedroom apartments from the 21st to the 26th floors. They are reconfigured from a two- and three-bedroom apartment on these floors. A sole duplex penthouse of 3,755 sq ft spans the 27th and 28th floors. Before the relaunch, 12 units were sold at an average price of $3,625 psf, based on caveats lodged. With the additional 45 units sold, the take-up rate has increased to 57 units (about 30%). The remaining units at Cuscaden Reserve will be sold "on a first-come, first-served" basis, says PropNex's Lee.
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The healthcare sector suffered an underwriting loss due to rising costs.
Singapore’s domestic and offshore general insurance segments saw year-on-year (YoY) increases, with a combined annual increment of 10.1% in gross written premiums to S$10.2b, reported General Insurance Association of Singapore (GIA). This growth reaffirms the sector's importance in protecting consumers and businesses, with an underwriting profit of S$608.1m. “Despite the positive results, we remain keenly aware of economic headwinds and the continued threat posed by fraudulent activities. Protecting and supporting our motoring public will remain a key focus for the sector in the coming year,” said Ronak Shah, President of GIA. The domestic segment observed a 7.3% YoY climb in gross written premiums to S$5.2b, though underwriting profit fell by 11.2% YoY to S$262.9m. Net incurred claims increased by 44% YoY, with the motor segment experiencing the largest rise in claims at 73.3%YoY to S$573.4m. Travel insurance saw a significant increase in gross written premiums by 37.6% YoY, reflecting a strong recovery in global travel. However, the health segment observed an underwriting loss of S$10.6m due to rising healthcare costs, despite a 12.1% YoY increase in gross written premiums. Employer's liability gross written premiums increased by 10.2% YoY, aligning with the expansion of the labour market, whilst underwriting profit rose to S$45.7m. Time outdoors is essential for your physical and mental wellbeing. Being outdoors in the daytime can help reduce stress and help you get your recommended allowance of vitamin D, which is essential for your brain and immune system. However, outdoor activities do come with some risks, particularly in the form of ultraviolet (UV) light, which can potentially cause skin cancer. Fortunately, you can easily protect your skin and enjoy the outdoors without excessive exposure to cancer-causing UV light.
Why Should I Protect My Skin? Singapore’s skin cancer rates are on the rise. A 2021 review of skin cancer studies suggests that the local prevalence of different skin cancers—namely basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma—has risen year over year since 1968, making skin cancers one of the most prevalent forms of cancer in the country. On the surface, the prevalence of skin cancers is remarkably low in Singapore, with around 7.4 cases per 100,000 people per year—much lower than in most Western countries. However, when looking at the prevalence of skin cancers among lighter-skinned ethnic Chinese Singaporeans, the rate rises to 18.9 cases per 100,000. Moreover, not even darker-skinned ethnic Malays and Indians are necessarily safe from skin cancer risks, as prevalence rates have also continued to increase in these populations. While the last thorough survey of Singapore skin cancer rates was in 2006, the increase in demand for skin cancer surgery suggests that rates may have risen since then. Today, there is a growing number of head and neck surgeons who specialise in diagnosing, surgically treating, and providing follow-up care for patients with skin cancer, particularly those with cancers affecting the head and neck region. What Can I Do To Protect My Skin? 1. Limit Your Sun Exposure Some exposure to the sun is beneficial but the limits may be far lower than you think. Multiple factors determine the “safe” amount of sunlight, including skin exposure, genetics, age, weather, and latitude. In a country as close to the equator as Singapore, lighter-skinned individuals may have to limit their direct exposure to sunlight to just under 10 minutes, though this could be extended to around 30 minutes or so in favourable conditions. 2. Seek Shade During Peak UV Times The sun’s UV rays are at their most intense between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., so it makes sense to avoid the sun at these times no matter your skin pigmentation. As a rule of thumb, it’s time to seek shade when your shadow gets shorter than you are. Get your fix of vitamin D only before and after this critical window. 3. Use Sunscreen Regardless of your skin pigmentation, it’s a good idea to wear sunscreen whenever you expect to spend more than just a few minutes outside. Apply sunscreen to any exposed skin, even on cloudy days. Pay close attention to your neck, ears, and the tops of your feet. If you need to be outdoors for an extended time, reapply sunscreen every two hours. Unfortunately, not all sunscreens will provide you with adequate protection from Singapore’s equatorial sun. A broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects from both UVA (rays associated with sunburns) and UVB (rays associated with premature skin ageing) is ideal. Choose a product that has a rating of at least PA+++ and SPF 30. If you sweat a lot, a water-resistant brand may be needed. 4. Use Protective Clothing A wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirt, and trousers will give you effective coverage from the sun. As mentioned earlier, head and neck cancers are becoming more prevalent, so it’s important to cover these areas during peak sunlight hours. Though any clothing is better than nothing, UV light can still penetrate most regular clothes. For even better sun protection, look for garments with a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating. A good pair of UV-protective sunglasses is also nice to have, as they can protect your eyes and the fragile skin surrounding them from sun damage. 5. Don’t Use Tanning Beds! Full-body tans are often considered to be a status symbol in developed Western countries, as it implies that one has the time to lounge by the beach. Unfortunately, tans are, in fact, an indicator of skin damage. While occasional tans are generally safe, frequent sunning sessions or visits to a tanning salon will speed up skin ageing and sharply increase the odds of developing skin cancers. If you want to look tanned, consider a self-tanning product instead. 6. Be Wary Of The Beach Sand and water reflect and scatter UV rays. This means that you can still get a dangerous dose of UV light even in the shade. Wear protective clothing if you can, and keep applying sunscreen as needed. 7. Check Your Skin Often Like all cancers, skin cancers are easily treated when detected early. Learn the signs of skin cancer and immediately get in touch with a qualified medical professional if you see unusual spots or lumps on your skin. If you have a spouse, check each other for skin irregularities regularly, especially in areas that are difficult to see on your own, such as the back, scalp, and behind the ears. Enjoy The Sunshine Responsibly Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to avoid the sun entirely if you’re at risk of skin cancer. Educating yourself and your loved ones about the relative dangers and taking the right precautions makes it possible to enjoy the sunshine and all its benefits without undue risks to your health. In today’s society, appearance has become a vital aspect of one’s life. From social media to everyday interactions, people are constantly bombarded with images of what is considered the “ideal” appearance. This constant comparison to unrealistic standards can have a detrimental effect on one’s self-esteem and overall wellbeing. However, this does not mean that we should ignore the importance of appearance altogether. There are surprising ways in which improving our appearance can have a positive impact on our overall wellbeing. This article will explore these unexpected ways and shed light on how focusing on our appearance can lead to improved mental and physical health.
The Power Of Self-Care Taking care of ourselves physically can have a significant impact on our mental health. When we take the time to invest in our appearance, whether it’s through skincare routines, exercise, or even checking one of the botox injection sites for a confidence boost, we are sending a message to ourselves that we are worth the time and effort. This act of self-love can boost our self-esteem and help us feel more confident in our skin, leading to improved mental wellbeing. Taking care of our physical appearance can also improve our overall health, as it encourages us to make healthier choices and prioritize self-care. From The Inside Out While society often focuses on the external aspect of appearance, it’s important to recognize that our physical appearance is closely tied to our overall wellbeing. When we take care of ourselves from the inside out, through proper nutrition, hydration, and exercise, it not only improves our physical health but also has a positive impact on our mental health. These healthy habits can improve our mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and increase energy levels. When we feel good physically, it can also reflect in our appearance, boosting our confidence and self-esteem even further. True beauty comes from within, and taking care of ourselves holistically can lead to improved overall wellbeing. Embracing Individuality In today’s society, there is a narrow definition of beauty promoted by the media and society. This can lead to individuals feeling pressured to conform to certain standards to be considered attractive or worthy. However, embracing individuality and challenging these societal norms can have a profound impact on self-esteem and overall wellbeing. By embracing our unique features and not conforming to unrealistic standards, we can learn to love ourselves for who we are. This can lead to improved confidence and self-esteem, as well as a more positive outlook on life. Embracing individuality also allows for diversity and inclusivity, creating a more accepting and empowering society for all individuals. Dress To Impress Our clothing choices not only have an impact on how others perceive us, but they can also affect our mood and confidence. Studies have shown that wearing certain colors or styles can elicit specific emotions or behaviors. For example, wearing brighter colors has been linked to increased feelings of happiness and confidence. Similarly, dressing in a way that makes us feel comfortable and confident can positively affect our mindset and overall wellbeing. It’s important to dress in a way that reflects our style and makes us feel good, as it can boost our self-esteem and enhance our mood. The Ripple Effect Improving our appearance not only affects ourselves, but it can also have a ripple effect on our relationships. When we feel good about ourselves and exude confidence, it can improve the way we interact with others. This can lead to stronger and more positive relationships with friends, family, and romantic partners. When we take care of ourselves physically and mentally, we are better equipped to give our best selves to those around us. Our improved self-esteem and positive mindset can also inspire others to take care of themselves and promote a culture of self-love and acceptance. In this way, improving our appearance can have a positive influence on not only ourselves but also the relationships we have with others. Confidence is Key Confidence is a key factor in achieving success in various aspects of life, including career, relationships, and personal development. And as it turns out, appearance plays a significant role in building confidence. When we feel good about our appearance, we are more likely to exude confidence and take on challenges with a positive mindset. This can lead to better job opportunities, stronger connections, and a more fulfilling life. While society often promotes unrealistic and unattainable standards of beauty, it’s important to recognize the positive impact that improving our appearance can have on our overall wellbeing. From promoting self-love and self-care to embracing individuality and boosting confidence, taking care of ourselves physically and mentally can lead to a happier and healthier life. Let us strive for balance and focus on our appearance in a way that promotes self-love, acceptance, and individuality. We all know Do Qoo for its huge variety of affordable, halal Taiwanese desserts. Well, they recently launched a new creation, their Mochi Belgian Waffles! As a huge fan of mochi, I was elated when I heard this news, and my colleague and I went down to try it immediately. We tried two of their best-selling mochi waffle flavours, the Signature Belgian Waffle with Mochi ($3.40) and the Chocolate Belgian Waffle with Mochi and Cheese ($3.90). Waffles were made upon order, and we had to wait around five to 10 minutes for our food to be ready. Although I initially thought the combination of chocolate, mochi, and cheese was awkward, I was proven otherwise. There was a generous serving of QQ mochi in the waffle, a nice contrast to the crispy waffle crust. The chocolate flavour was quite faint, but I thought it was just right. However, my only gripe was that the sliced cheese was slightly burnt and I could taste slight bitterness at certain points. Regardless, this combination was still quite yummy. We also tried their Belgian Waffles With Mochi. My colleague and I felt that this was slightly plain, but it could be due to the chocolate waffles dulling our tastebuds. Similar to the above, I enjoyed how the textures of both mochi and waffle batter paired well together. We had to grab some of their popular Taiwanese desserts before leaving. We got two of their signature desserts, the best-selling Golden Beauty and Matcha Made In Heaven, both priced at $4.30.
The desserts were served cold and came with a grass jelly and beancurd base. The toppings were also filled to the brim! They also provide cream for you to add to your desserts if you prefer a thicker consistency and a sweeter treat. Currently, Do Qoo is also having a promotion: add on $2.90 for any mochi waffle if you buy one of their dessert bowls! My colleague and I went to the Paya Lebar outlet, but this promotion is available at other outlets as well. Do come down quickly to try their mochi waffles! Website | Full list of outlets Do Qoo is a halal-certified eatery. The Sea View topped the list of condos that hit a new psf-price high during the period between Feb 23 and March 1. This comes about with the resale of a three-bedroom unit measuring 1,216 sq ft at the development on Feb 26. The 18th-floor apartment changed hands for $3.15 million, which works out to $2,590 psf.
The transaction beats the previous high of $2,539 psf, which was established last June when a 1,410 sq ft, three-bedroom unit fetched $3.58 million. It is also the second time a unit at The Sea View has transacted above $2,500 psf. The unit sold on Feb 26 was purchased by the seller in September 2012 for $2.01 million ($1,653 psf). This means they made a gross gain of $1.14 million after owning the apartment for nearly 11½ years. The Sea View is a freehold condo on Amber Road in District 15 which was completed in 2008. Featuring six 22-storey blocks, the development has a total of 546 units. Residences comprise one-bedders from 527 to 560 sq ft, three-bedders from 1,216 to 1,410 sq ft, and four-bedders from 1,518 to 1,647 sq ft. There are also four-bedroom penthouses of 2,196 to 2,723 sq ft and five-bedroom penthouses of 2,809 to 2,928 sq ft. Amaranda Gardens also achieved a new psf-price high during the period in review. This occurred with the Feb 29 sale of a 1,259 sq ft, three-bedroom unit for $2.68 million or $2,128 psf. The seller, who bought the unit on the 11th floor in September 2015 for $1.65 million ($1,310 psf), netted a gain of $1.03 million. This marks the first time a unit at Amaranda Gardens has transacted above $2,100 psf. The sale surpasses the previous record of $2,064 psf set more than a month ago, when a 1,163 sq ft unit fetched $2.4 million on Jan 19. Amaranda Gardens is a 189-unit condo on Serangoon Avenue 3 in District 19. Built in 2004, the freehold development consists of three 17-storey towers. Units include two-bedders from 990 sq ft, three-bedders from 1,163 sq ft, and four-bedders from 1,464 sq ft. There are also four-bedroom penthouses of 2,453 to 2,907 sq ft and five-bedroom penthouses of 3,748 to 3,864 sq ft. Another condo that hit a new psf-price high is Tre Residences. The condo registered a new record of $1,858 psf when a 420 sq ft unit changed hands for $780,000 on Feb 27. The sale of the 14th-floor unit beats the previous high set last December when a 764 sq ft unit was sold for $1.33 million ($1,740 psf). The unit sold on Feb 27 was purchased by the seller from the developer in November 2014 for $707,100. This means they made a gain of about $73,000 on the deal. Tre Residences is a 99-year leasehold condo on Geylang East Avenue 1, within walking distance of the Aljunied MRT Station on the East-West Line. The development was completed in 2018 and houses 250 residences across two towers. Its consolidated earnings saw $107.1m, instead of the reported $90.9m
Keppel Infrastructure Trust (KIT) reported the variance between its unaudited and audited financial statement for fiscal year 2023 (FY23), which showed earnings per share ended at 2.09 Singaporean cents. This was 16.8% higher than the previously reported 1.79 cents per share. For the year, its consolidated earnings saw $107.1m, instead of the reported $90.9m. Likewise, the share of results of joint venture amounted to $41.8m (versus the $26.6m previously reported). As people, we tend to have issues here and there, niggling pains, that we tend to ignore. Why do you think that is? More often than not we will complain about the pain we feel in certain areas but yet do nothing to resolve the issue. A lot of the time it might be because we think it isn’t a big deal, but sometimes in these areas they can be underlying problems that need addressing. With that in mind, here are some of those most common things that cause us pain. With a few helpful tips on how you can combat them should you be suffering from them.
The Pain Of A Toothache Many people will comment that a toothache is one of those annoying things that you put up. It can be an awful process to go through and one of which not only causes pain in your teeth but can spread to your ear and head. A toothache can be something of nothing; it can be nothing major. But there can be times when a toothache can be much more than that. When things like cracked teeth or tooth decay, all of which need work on. Sometimes you may need particular procedures to rectify the problem. Suffering From Headaches Headaches are one of those things we all put up with. This is because a headache can be caused by something self-inflicted. Not drinking enough water or being tired are two of the most common causes of general headaches. But regular headaches could be something more than just feeling tired or being dehydrated. Which is why if they are happening more often it is worth speaking to your doctor. They can offer strong painkillers, recommend lifestyle changes or refer you for further checks. Agonizing Chest Pain Chest pain is one of those things we can be a little afraid of. Mostly because this type of pain is associated with more serious problems, specifically heart attack. Which is why I guess we tend to not investigate chest pain as much as we should. Through fear or feeling like we are wasting time for the medical staff. But chest pain can be to do with asthma and infections. So it is always worth checking it out to make sure it isn’t something sinister. Ignoring Muscle Injuries We tend to get muscle injuries through many different ways. It could be regularly playing a sport or even just sleeping in a funny position. As they are so common, we tend to just ignore them and hope they repair themselves over time. But you could visit an orthotics center to help ease the aches and spins you feel in certain areas of your body. However, with rest you can speed up the process. Annoying Earache Finally, another niggling problem is an earache. It can be caused by common colds or could be more like an infection. We don’t tend to get it checked out, but a lot of the time earache can be solved quite easily. A great way to solve ear issues could be to have your ears syringed. It can keep your ears in good health. Let’s hope this helps you treat those more niggling pains more quickly. When it comes to beauty, there are only a few products that reign as the cream of the crop. Amidst the endless array, the Avène Thermal Spring Water stands as a natural elixir that transcends conventional skincare with its rich composition of mineral and biological properties. Celebrated as a cult-favourite, it has garnered acclaim from makeup professionals and captured the hearts of A-list celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow, Sofia Richie and Irina Shayk.
Beyond that, it’s a soothing powerhouse that boasts versatility, offering relief for various skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis, ichthyosis, and even those induced by cancer treatments. Revered as a mainstay in the daily beauty regimen, it has become a staple for many — and you should also embrace its transformative benefits. So why wait? Discover the secrets of radiant beauty with Avène Thermal Spring Water. Avène Thermal Spring Water A Natural Thermal Spring Water with a Rich Heritage of History The illustrious history of Avène Thermal Spring Water dates back to 1743, in the quaint commune of Avène, nestled in the picturesque Occitanie region of southern France. The source of this water is the Saint Odile natural thermal spring, rainwater that has undergone extensive natural filtration and purification through the Cévennes mountains and dolomite rocks for over 50 years, rendering it rich in silicates, calcium, and magnesium. The remarkable medicinal properties of this natural wonder were quickly discovered when the Marquis of Rocozels’ horse was healed after swimming in the water. Fast forward, with a historic timeline of expansion, this includes the establishment of the Avène Hydrotherapy Center, which is outfitted with a spa dedicated to dermatology and treatment. The Science behind the Iconic Thermal Spring Water The secret behind the wondrous rave reviews that sing its praises is its exceptional composition, which highlights its unparalleled effectiveness. The therapeutic prowess of the Avène Thermal Spring Water is evident through its multifaceted qualities of soothing, anti-irritating, anti-inflammatory, and anti-pruritic efficacy, attributed to its double signature of mineral and biological heritage. These unique and constant compositions endow it with distinct benefits, maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier and reducing the skin’s hyperactivity thresholds. The mineral heritage of the Avène Thermal Spring Water, comprising a low mineral content and neutral pH, is a testament to its gentle yet transformational nature. It provides delicate care suitable for even the most sensitive skin types. A balanced blend of bicarbonate, calcium, and magnesium works harmoniously to normalise the epidermal barrier, while trace elements and silicates infuse the skin with boosted benefits. Complementing this is the biological heritage of Avène Thermal Spring Water, characterised by the inclusion of Aqua Dolomiae, a unique microflora exclusive to Avène, contributing to the water’s soothing properties. Over 12 years of rigorous research has led to the isolation, identification, and description of this microflora, culminating in its efficacy for a spectrum of skin concerns, including sensitivity, hypersensitivity, intolerance, acne, irritation, and redness. Avène Thermal Spring Water has been clinically proven through over 150 studies to deliver astounding results. In fact, a staggering 65% reduction in skin sensitivity observed after just one week of use heralds its distinct soothing efficacy as a potent remedy for various skin conditions. Innovative Sterile Barrier Packaging: Direct from the Source to Your Skin What sets it apart from others is its state-of-the-art sterile barrier packaging process. The soothing properties of Avène Thermal Spring Water remain preserved in every Thermal Spring Water Spray as it is directly sourced from its origin to the manufacturing plant through drilling at the point of emergence in subterranean water reservoirs. Encased within a sterile barrier through a cutting-edge packaging procedure, it remains immaculately untouched by any treatment, ensuring absolute purity and effectiveness. This extensive process ensures that the Avène Thermal Spring Water remains pristine until the moment it is sprayed onto your skin, when it experiences daylight for the first time. With a few spritzes of its ultra-fine mist, it delivers a refreshing burst that instantly penetrates the skin to revitalise your complexion, illustrating its innovative approach of delivering directly from the source to your skin. Purchase the Avène Thermal Spring Water Now! Say goodbye to skincare concerns and welcome the glowing skin you’ve always desired with Avène Thermal Spring Water! Experience the transformative benefits of this rejuvenating spray as it hydrates, soothes, and revitalises your complexion. The Avène Thermal Spring Water is available in three different sizes: 50ml, 150ml and 300ml. It is available for purchase at Watsons, Guardian, Shopee and Lazada. Since its opening in 2020, Yat Ka Yan has become the go-to place for traditional Chinese desserts in Fortune Centre. With the recent opening of its second outlet near Bugis MRT Station, it’s unlikely that popularity will fade any time soon. This Bugis outlet is just an 11-minute walk from the Fortune Centre one, so if one location gets too crowded, you can probably walk over to the other for the same desserts. These range from classics such as pulut hitam and tau suan to more inventive treats. In the chendol department, you’ve got renditions such as the Yammy Chendol ($6.50), which consists of hearty yam paste that sits on a pile of shaved ice with coconut milk, pandan jelly, red beans, and gula melaka syrup. If you want something more indulgent, consider trying the Durian Chendol ($7.60)—a sweet, rich, and creamy dessert highly favoured by durian enthusiasts. Other must-try desserts include the Mini Soup Set of 3 ($6.80), Purple Rice w/ Coconut Milk ($3.50), Tang Yuan Ginger Soup ($3.50) and more. With the large variety of old-school desserts to choose from, you’re likely to have your sweet tooth sated at Yat Ka Yan Dessert. Interestingly, the shop also offers savoury dishes such as Creamy Chee Cheong Fun w/ Bak Kwa ($6). This dish features silky rice noodle rolls and chopped bak kwa in a creamy, savoury sauce similar to cream-based pasta.
Address: 9 Tan Quee Lan Street, #01-03, Singapore 188098 Opening hours: Wed-Mon 12pm to 12am Tel: 8798 9292 Website Yat Ka Yan Dessert is not a halal-certified eatery. |