Singapore shares rose in the first few minutes of trade today, following a mixed performance in global markets.

This came as investors took comfort in the news that First Citizens BancShares would acquire Silicon Valley Bank’s deposits and loans, allaying recent concerns over the banking sector.

In terms of companies to watch, we have Manulife US Reit, after the Reit’s manager said none of its lenders is a regional bank in the US. But to what extent has the ongoing banking crisis in the US affected SGX-listed Reits, particularly those exposed to the US and Europe?

Meanwhile, we’re also seeing a number of privatisation offers for companies listed in Singapore but why is this the case?  

On Market View, the Drive Time team sat down with David Poh, Head of Investment and ESG Strategies, South Asia, Amundi for more.