"Why invest in Singapore, when you can invest in the US?" Our guest expert counters this argument with facts and his opinion.

Synopsis: Every third Monday of the month, senior columnist Ven Sreenivasan offers you an extra edge in managing your hard-earned money.

In this episode, Ven hosts Thilan Wickramesinghe - regional head of research at Maybank Securities - to look at the investment outlook from our vantage point in Singapore, at the halfway mark of June, in 2024.

This also comes against the backdrop of the new Prime Minister Lawrence Wong sworn in on May 15, taking over from Mr Lee Hsien Loong, now Senior Minister.

They also cover opportunities that include bringing to fruition nascent projects such as the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (SEZ). Ideas mooted under the zone include a passport-free QR code system to speed up immigration clearance and a one-stop business and investment service centre in Johor to make it easier for Singapore businesses to set up shop there.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:11 What is the outlook for Singapore’s GDP for the rest of the year? 

6:06 The 1Q 2024 results season just concluded: Major takeaways

8:32 There is a new PM and Cabinet for Singapore in place: How Singapore is benefitting from safe haven flows and a strong ecosystem for start-ups and innovation

11:10 On the Johor-Singapore SEZ: After previous attempts, what is different this time round and what are the opportunities?

13:55 "Why invest in Singapore, when you can invest in the US?": Is this a valid statement and how should investors think about South-east Asian markets?

16:26 Discover Thilan's top stock picks in Singapore at the halfway mark of 2024 and reasons for his choices

Produced by: Ven Sreenivasan (ven@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis, and Teo Tong Kai

Edited by: Teo Tong Kai

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Do note: All analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast are for your general information only. You should not rely on them in making any decision. Please consult a fully qualified financial adviser or professional expert for independent advice and verification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, SPH Media shall not be liable for any loss arising from the use of or reliance on any analyses, opinions, recommendations and other information in this podcast. SPH Media accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever that may result or arise from the products, services or information of any third parties.

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