 To ensure that there is adequate supply to meet housing demand and to maintain market stability, the government has sustained the supply of private residential units by offering 8,505 units in the upcoming Confirmed List and Reserved List of the 1H2025 GLS Government Land Sales (GLS) programme 1H2025.
Ten plots will be offered under the Confirmed List, comprising nine residential sites, three of which are executive condo (EC) plots. The tenth plot is a residential cum commercial site. The 10 sites can yield an estimated 5,030 residential units, including the 980 EC units. In terms of residential units for sale, it’s in line with the 5,050 units offered in the Confirmed List of 2H2024. However, it’s almost 60% higher than the average supply on the Confirmed List in each GLS programme from 2021 to 2023. The Reserve List includes four private residential sites, one commercial site, three White sites and one hotel site, which can potentially yield an additional 3,475 private residential units and 199,900 sqm (2.15 million sq ft) gross floor area (GFA) of commercial space. The 3,475 residential units on the Reserve List of 1H2025 are higher than the 3,090 units in 2H2024. Including the Reserve List, the overall private housing supply of 8,505 units in 1H2025 is on a par with the 8,140 units in 2H2024. Following the progressive ramp-up of private housing supply in the GLS programmes over the last three years, the inventory of private residential units available for sale has increased steadily from 16,100 units at the end of 2021 to around 21,000 units as of end-November 2024. The ramp-up of supply from the GLS programmes has contributed to the stabilisation of the private residential market, as reflected by the moderation in property price momentum. Based on the URA private residential property price index, price growth has moderated to 6.8% in 2023 from 10.6% in 2021 and 8.6% in 2022. Private residential prices are expected to see more modest gains in 2024, with the cumulative price increase over the first three quarters of the year at around 1.6%. In view of the stiff competition for EC sites among developers and rising EC land prices, the government has ramped up the supply of EC sites, with three plots potentially yielding 980 units in the Confirmed List of 1H2025. This is a shift from previous GLS programmes since 2018, with only one EC site offered in each of the half-yearly land sales programmes, notes PropNex. The last time three EC plots were launched for sale in a single GLS programme was in 2H2014 when EC sites in Sembawang Road/Canberra Link, Anchorvale Crescent, and Woodlands Avenue 12 were launched for tender. In 1H2014, four EC sites (two in Yishun, one each in Sembawang and Choa Chu Kang) were launched for sale via the GLS. The increase in the EC land supply in 1H2025 could “go some way to soothe the competition among developers in land tenders and help to moderate EC land cost and prices accordingly”, says Ismail Gafoor, CEO of PropNex. Seven new plots will be introduced in the 1H2025 GLS programme. They include a plot at Lakeside Drive near the Jurong Lake Gardens in Jurong Lake District, Dunearn Road in the new housing precinct in Bukit Timah Turf City, and Telok Blangah Road on the former Keppel Golf Course site. The site of the former Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society on Dorsett Road, off Rangoon Road, which can yield about 430 units, will also be launched for sale in 1H2025. A residential and commercial site at Hougang Central, which can yield a new mixed-use development with 835 residential units and over 400,000 sq ft of commercial space, is offered for sale. It will likely be integrated with the Hougang MRT Station on the Northeast Line. Also on the Confirmed List is the residential plot in Upper Thomson Road (Parcel A), which saw no bids when its tender closed in June 2024. Previously, the plot was to offer a mix of residential units and long-stay serviced apartments. Of note, the URA has provided more flexibility this time; it said that serviced apartment/long-stay serviced apartment use would not be mandated for the site but can be allowed subject to approval from technical agencies, notes PropNex. It was an unprecedented year for GLS tenders. For the first time, URA did not award the tender for three plots - Marina Gardens Crescent, the Jurong Lake District master developer site, and plots in Media Circle (for long-stay serviced apartment use). The URA rejected the bids offered because they were too low. These sites are now listed on the 1H2025 Reserve List. In addition to sites in two new housing precincts, the majority of the sites are near MRT stations, which could appeal to developers and homebuyers alike, notes Gafoor. “In our view, the most attractive ones are the mixed-use site in Hougang Central (835 units) that will be connected to the Hougang MRT station, the Telok Blangah Road plot (740 units) and Dunearn Road (370 units) site in new housing precincts, and within minutes’ walk to the MRT station, as well as the Lakeside Drive site (575 units) which is right next to the Lakeside MRT station, Jurong Lake Gardens and the Jurong East commercial hub.”
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 Local fintech and securities firm Longbridge Group has secured an additional $133m (US$100m) funding for its international expansion efforts.
Bringing its total funding to more than $200m (US$150m), the group said it will enhance its global trading infrastructure and accelerate market expansion into new regions including the Asia-Pacific, Europe, Americas, and the Middle East. Longbridge also launched Longbridge Securities Singapore with $0 commission trading on the US, Hong Kong and Singapore markets which support products including stocks, US options, warrants, ETFs, REITs, and funds. This made the company the first brokerage in Singapore to eliminate commission fees indefinitely and offer global investors a comprehensive, one-stop investment platform. By removing trading fees permanently, Longbridge Securities aims to make investing more cost-effective and accessible for retail investors.  When the pain from a tooth becomes severe and painful, sometimes patients are left with a choice between saving the tooth through a root canal or extracting the tooth. Each of these procedures is a way to end the suffering and stop the spread of infection, but they are radically different in terms of approach and long-term consequences. Now, let’s discuss what factors need to be taken into consideration in choosing between these two procedures.
Understanding Root Canal Treatment Root canal therapy is a treatment that is designed to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. During this treatment, the dentist removes the diseased pulp from inside the tooth, cleans and disinfects the area, and then fills and seals it. This process helps preserve the natural tooth structure and gives relief from the pain and discomfort due to infection. In the debate of root canals vs. tooth extractions, a root canal offers the advantage of saving the tooth and maintaining its functionality. Benefits Of Root Canal Treatment Natural Tooth Preservation: The greatest benefit of a root canal is that it can help you preserve your natural tooth. This is essential in the prevention of shifting other teeth as well as in keeping everything in proper occlusion. Cost-Effective in the Long Run: Although a root canal is more expensive than an extraction, it often becomes more economical in the long run. The avoidance of having to replace the tooth with an option such as a bridge or implant saves money. Aesthetics and Function: Nothing looks, feels, or functions quite like a natural tooth. Preserving your original tooth with a root canal helps maintain your natural smile and chewing ability. Shorter Recovery Time: Most people can return to their regular activities the day after a root canal treatment. The recovery process is typically shorter and less uncomfortable compared to an extraction. Possible Disadvantages Multiple Appointments: Root canal therapy may require multiple visits to finish. Risk of Refreatment: In some rare instances, if the tooth cannot be cleaned out perfectly, then the endodontic retreatment might be needed. Reduced Tooth Strength: A tooth with root canal treatment may crack easily; however, that can be avoided with a quality crown. Tooth Extraction Explained To remove a tooth from its socket within the jawbone is tooth extraction. This process is often suggested when a tooth has severe damage that cannot be fixed, severe decay, or malalignment. Advantages Of Tooth Extraction
Disadvantages
Factors Of Choosing In Your Mind Tooth condition The extent of damage or decay in the tooth is a critical factor. If the tooth can be saved, a root canal is often the preferred option. However, if the tooth is severely compromised, extraction might be necessary. Long-Term Oral Health Consider the long-term impact on your oral health. Root canal treatment helps maintain natural tooth structure and prevents issues like bone loss and tooth shifting that can occur after extraction. Cost Factors Although extraction may appear to be less expensive at first, consider the possibility of future costs such as replacement of the tooth. Root canal therapy is usually more cost-effective in the long term. Pain and Recovery Both procedures are painful to some degree, but with current anesthesia techniques, they are much less painful than they once were. Root canals usually have a shorter, less painful recovery period than extractions. Cosmetic Issues If it happens that the affected tooth appears on your smile, a root canal might be retained more aesthetically than extracting. Long-term Success Rate Research has shown promising long-term results for root canal treatments. A 2023 published study showed very high survival and success rates for endodontically treated teeth. The cumulative survival rates were 97%, 81%, 76%, and 68% at 10, 20, 30, and 37 years, respectively. This means that the root canal treatment can be a good long-term option for many patients. Choosing Your Treatment Ultimately, the choice between a root canal and tooth extraction depends on various factors, including the extent of tooth damage, your overall oral health, and personal preferences. It’s crucial to consult with a dental professional who can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your specific case. When discussing options with your dentist, consider asking the following questions:
Remember that the preservation of your natural teeth as much as possible is generally the best long-term approach to oral health. As indicated in a recent study, the favorable long-term prognosis of endodontically treated teeth should encourage clinicians to opt for primary root canal treatment when deciding whether a tooth with pulpal or periapical diseases should be saved or extracted. In conclusion, while both procedures have their place in the dental care of patients, root canal treatment often allows for the preservation of more natural tooth structure and function than extraction. Each case is unique, though, and the best choice will depend on your individual circumstances. Working closely with your dental professional and considering all aspects of your oral health will lead you to make an informed decision that best serves your long-term dental well-being.  As much as we want to embrace the hirsute state, such unsightly hair can look a little unkempt, which is why people turn to DIY hair removal. Unfortunately, hair removal methods like waxing or sugaring often come with unbearable pain (think twitching and screaming in agony). So, it is no surprise that most people turn to shavers to attain the smoothest skin of their dreams. But with the high possibility of razor bumps and cuts, getting professional treatment for IPL is a much-needed intervention. However, for those who are still new to the beauty scene, SHR hair removal is the new buzzword.
If you’re feeling stuck in the sea of infinite options, whether to go for IPL, laser hair removal, or electrolysis, getting an SHR hair removal is one of the treatments that you can consider. Ahead, we have gathered all of the essential details about this hair removal treatment in Singapore, from its side effects, and price range to the list of places that offer such treatment. Disclaimer: This platform does not promote or support any specific treatment. The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only, and we strongly advise all readers to thoroughly research and consult with a doctor accredited by the Ministry of Health before undergoing any aesthetic or medical procedures. What is SHR Hair Removal? Super Hair Removal or commonly known by its abbreviation, SHR is an FDA-approved hair removal technology. It emits low energy of rapid pulsing diode laser at a high frequency to destroy the hair follicles, preventing regrowth. The rapid pulses gradually heat the skin, whereas the energy absorbed is accumulated to target the melanin and cells, causing hair growth. Since the energy is distributed gently, it does not exert any irritating effect on the skin, making it suitable for everyone with all skin types and tones. What’s more, SHR hair removal can also eliminate fine and coarse hair. Primarily, it is suitable during the active growth phase, specifically the anagen stage. Therefore, it is recommended to shave the area a day before you undergo the hair removal treatment. SHR Hair Removal VS IPL Hair Removal SHR hair removal technology is relatively new compared to IPL hair removal, hence it features technology that is useful in removing unwanted hair. Most of all, SHR hair removal has minimal pain and discomfort as it imparts low fluence repetitive laser pulses while simultaneously cooling the targeted area. Thereby, it ensures that the treatment is comfortable and protects the skin from trauma. Aside from being 40% faster than IPL treatment, SHR hair removal is also ideal for everyone of all skin types and tones. Plus, it can eliminate both fine and coarse hair through its precise shots, which remove unwanted hair efficiently. Contrary to IPL treatment, which requires a session about once every two weeks, SHR hair removal only needs monthly maintenance. However, it is also similar to IPL hair removal which can be used on different parts of the body, including the face, underarms, legs, and bikini line. For those who irk at the idea of a painful hair removal experience, SHR hair removal might be a suitable option as it helps to keep your skin hairless with less maintenance required. Can SHR Hair Removal Treatment Permanently Remove Hair? With consistent SHR hair removal treatment, you can remove the hair permanently. However, do note that the result varies as it depends on several factors, including hormonal changes. After the treatment, it is common to notice hair regrowth in the areas. Hence, it is important that you do a follow-up treatment to maintain such results. Are There Any Side Effects Of The SHR Hair Removal? SHR hair removal treatment only takes about 30 minutes per session with zero downtime or even side effects. So you can proceed with your daily activities once the treatment ends. To expedite the healing process, it is important to follow the aftercare instructions. The Price Range For SHR Hair Removal in Singapore The price starts from $38 onwards per session, however, it varies depending on the place and the targeted area.  The sandwich deli that had everyone in a chokehold when they operated as a takeaway kiosk at Far East Square is officially making their highly anticipated return. That’s right, Korio is opening a new permanent space at IOI Boulevard Towers in Marina Bay on 11 December 2024!  This marks a brand new chapter for the brand, according to their Instagram post. Not only will this be their biggest outlet yet, but there will also be a dine-in space and an expanded menu! Although the menu and prices haven’t been released yet, here are some favourites to look out for from their previous launches.  For vegetarians, the Shroom 2.0 (price TBD) and Caprese Grilled Cheese (price TBD) might appeal to you. The former features thyme-roasted mushrooms, caramelised onions, black truffle aioli, provolone, and arugula, while the latter sees mozzarella, cheddar, Roma tomatoes, caramelised onions, and basil. Other favourites include the Roasted Chicken (price TBD), Braised Brisket (price TBD), and Peking Duck (price TBD). Their saucy and tender meat-packed sandwiches usually come with the same fillings, which include cheese, caramelised onions, and arugula.  Other than their sandwiches starring sourdough bread, they also switch it up from time to time with bagels. Our favorite during their pop-up in May 2024 was Get Shorty: a bagel sandwich packed with beef short ribs, provolone, roasted onions, pickled cucumber, and horseradish cream.  That’s not at all—another speciality here is the soft and fluffy brioche doughnuts.  Popular flavours from the previous launch include Peanut Butter Raspberry Jelly, White Chocolate, Cinnamon Sugar & Whipped Honey, and Apple Crumble.
Keep a close eye on this space for more updates! Address: 2 Central Boulevard, #01-11, IOI Towers, Singapore 018916 Opening hours: TBD Website Korio is not a halal-certified eatery.  Analysts expect the H1 2025 GLS programme to draw strong developer interest due to its balanced mix of suburban and central sites and increased Executive Condominium (EC) offerings.
In a commentary, Cushman & Wakefield highlighted strong demand for GLS sites driven by improved market sentiment, easing interest rates, and a steady housing market recovery. For its part, PropNex PropNex noted the government’s strategic increase in EC sites to curb land prices and reduce competition, with developers likely focusing on mixed-use and centrally located plots. Meanwhile, Huttons noted that the robust sales performance of recent projects increases the likelihood of government intervention to stabilize the market, prompting developers to adopt a cautious approach to manage potential downside risks. On the other hand, Knight Frank emphasized the GLS programme aligns land supply with housing demand, with developers likely favoring mixed-use and MRT-adjacent plots. “While the return of homebuyers due to pent up demand is nascent at the moment, the expectation of continued reduction in interest rates paired together with tight national employment levels and supported by overall strong household balance sheets, there are reasons to expect that demand for private residences will remain firm in the year ahead,” it said. OrangeTee said the inclusion of three EC sites next year will address demand from HDB upgraders and helping regulate EC price growth.  The Straits Times Index (STI) closed at 3,805.450 down 0.45% on Friday, 6 December, at 5:21 p.m.
YZJ Shipbldg SGD is the most active stock, followed by JMH USD (+1.25%) and HongkongLand USD (+0.85%). UOL and Frasers L&C Tr were at the foot.  When it comes to working an office job, it’s crucial to ensure you are taking care of your body throughout the day. Making a conscious effort to improve your posture, especially if you sit at a desk for 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, is crucial.
It’s no secret that most people (especially in this day and age) have bad posture, and sitting in front of a computer day in and day out has a lot to do with it. These are some of the simplest ways you can improve your posture, especially if you’re working in an office and sitting at a desk all day. Firstly, Is There A ‘Correct’ Way To Sit At A Desk? In short, yes, there is a correct way to sit at a desk to ensure optimal health. You want to make sure your feet are flat on the floor, your shoulders are relaxed, and you’re not slumping over or resting your elbows on the desk. Your knees and elbows should both be parallel to the desk with your elbows at your side. You also want to make sure you’re sitting up straight and that you’re looking forward (not looking down) to prevent any damage to your neck. Making sure you’re sitting up straight, looking forward and your feet are flat on the ground is one of the simplest ways to ensure you’re sitting properly and not damaging your back or neck whilst at work. What Are Some Ways To Easily Improve Your Posture While At Your Desk? There are a few simple tips and tricks you can keep in mind that can really help to improve your posture if you’re at a desk all day. These are some of the easy changes you can make every day to help your posture improve: Get Up & Stretch Sitting at a desk all day can really impact your hip flexor muscles leading to pain and poor posture so it’s important for you to get up and stretch throughout the day. Stretch out your hips, your glutes, your hamstrings and your lower back regularly to ensure you’re getting adequate movement throughout the workday. Sit Upright As mentioned above, sitting upright is a crucial element of ensuring good posture when you’re at a desk all day. You don’t want to hunch or sit with your legs crossed as this can cause poor circulation and misaligned posture. Make sure you’re sitting upright with your feet firmly on the floor during your work day. You should also aim to move your feet regularly to ensure you’re getting enough blood flow during the day. Stretch Your Shoulders Hunching at a desk is one of the most common causes of poor posture. This happens because your chest muscles tighten internally rotating your shoulders forward and out of alignment. Try to stretch and roll your shoulders regularly throughout the day to help minimise the risk of this happening. You also want to ensure you have enough back support so that you can sit up straight with your shoulders back. Seek Professional Help If you’ve been working at a desk for a number of years and you’re dealing with back, neck or shoulder pain as a result, you may want to seek out the help of a professional. Look for chiropractic treatments in your area to find professionals nearby that can help relieve pain and improve your posture. A chiropractor may also be able to provide you with stretches or exercises you can do throughout the day to help improve your posture whilst sitting. Seeking professional help is a great way to go, especially if you’re not sure where to start when it comes to improving your posture. Great Posture Is Just Around The Corner With these tips and tricks and a conscious effort from you during your workday, you can be sure that good posture is just around the corner! It’s never too late to start improving your posture so start small and work up to larger changes. When it comes to improving your posture, it’s all about building habits. Don’t feel discouraged if you don’t see or feel results immediately, sometimes even the smallest changes can make the biggest difference in the long run.  Bio-Oil has become a cult favourite, adored by celebrities, beauty editors, and thousands of reviewers online. But is it worth the praise? In this Bio-Oil Singapore review, we dive deep into its claims, supported by dermatologist insights and user experiences, to uncover the truth.
What is Bio Oil? Bio-Oil is a multipurpose face and body oil infused with plant extracts and vitamins A and E. These nourishing ingredients are delivered through PurCellin Oil™, a patented formulation designed for quick absorption. Its lightweight and non-greasy texture is ideal for Singapore’s humid climate. Initially marketed for scars and stretch marks, Bio-Oil’s gentle yet effective formula now tackles issues like skin discolouration, hydration, and early signs of aging. The secret lies in its potent plant extracts:
Clinically Proven Results Bio-Oil’s effectiveness is backed by several clinical studies that highlight its ability to improve skin conditions. In a study conducted by Germany’s proDERM Institute, 100% of participants reported that their stretch marks faded after just eight weeks of consistent use. Similarly, research by Texas-based Thomas J. Stephens and Associates revealed that 94% of participants experienced significant improvements in skin tone, clarity, and smoothness, effectively addressing hyperpigmentation and sun damage. Further evidence comes from the Department of Dermatology at Peking University, where a study found that 84% of participants noticed an overall improvement in their acne scars, with 90% reporting that their scars had become lighter. Importantly, the oil did not exacerbate acne or increase oiliness. Dermatologists, however, emphasize that Bio-Oil is most effective for surface-level concerns such as stretch marks and hyperpigmentation. For deeper scars, like those caused by severe acne, clinical treatments or more specialised skincare products may be necessary. Using Bio-Oil for Specific Skin Concerns Bio-Oil is a versatile product suitable for various skin concerns, but dermatologists recommend specific approaches for optimal results:
Bio Oil Singapore Review: The Final Verdict Bio Oil is a great product, and it certainly has a lot of clinical evidence and reviews to support its claims. However, you can’t just look at a bunch of posts or clinical figures to say “Yes, it’s going to make my skin look amazing.” Dermatologists say again and again that your skin is unique, and it needs more than one product to look its best. Rather than falling for the hype, try it and see if you like it, but more importantly, pay attention to your entire skincare and body care routine — because it’s what you do every day that really matters.  Frites, a food kiosk along Arab Street, gained attention for its loaded beef fries topped with mentaiko and creamy onion sauce. Its latest offering, Loaded Chachos in a Bag, has been doing the rounds online thanks to its eye-catching concept. This snack comes in two flavours: Classic Beef Chachos ($10) and Chicken Chachos ($10).  Here’s how it’s made: the kiosk opens up a bag of the popular tortilla chips Chachos, then loads it with either minced beef or crispy chicken bits. After that, creamy onion sauce, cheese, a housemade spicy green sauce, and jalapeno. It’s definitely quite the messy treat, but one that’s packed with flavour.  Our favourite was the Classic Beef Chachos. The chips here are coated in savoury, creamy, and spicy goodness. The tangy green sauce and jalapenos add a zesty heat, balanced by the richness of the cheese and onion sauce. Finally, the pieces of minced beef add an addictive meatiness to each bite.  If you haven’t tried Frites’ fare before, consider adding the Loaded Beef Fries ($10) to your order. These come in four flavours: Truffle, Mentaiko, Cheesy, and Creamy Onion.  The thick-cut fries are fried to order and topped with tender shabu-style beef slices. Generous amounts of sauce are then slathered over everything, creating a seriously decadent dish.  Do note that Frites is a takeaway kiosk, but if you prefer sitting down, there’s a small table right outside for you to enjoy your fries. The stall is an eight-minute walk from Jalan Besar or Bugis MRT Station.
Address: 114 Arab Street, Singapore 199809 Opening hours: Sun-Thurs 12pm to 9pm, Fri-Sat 12pm to 10pm Tel: 8749 9679 Website Frites is a Muslim-owned eatery. |