Frankie Chia
Managing Partner
Managing Partner's Message
Happy New Year! Welcome to the first issue of BDO Spotlight for 2025, where our experts share valuable insights on audit, tax, sustainability, and corporate strategies. This edition highlights celebrating Chinese New Year sustainably, the Monetary Authority of Singapore's (MAS) regulatory changes for REITs, updates on collective investment schemes, key GST revisions for gold jewellery trade-ins, and the strategic advantages of corporate restructuring.
The festive season is a time for joy, togetherness, and reflection on the values that matter most. Let's explore how sustainability and tradition can beautifully coexist this Chinese New Year. From eco-friendly decorations to mindful gift-giving and sustainable dining, discover practical ways to celebrate with purpose while honouring the spirit of prosperity, family, and good fortune. Embrace meaningful changes that bring joy today and help sustain our planet for generations to come. Here's to a greener, more thoughtful Chinese New Year!
MAS' recent regulatory updates mark a pivotal moment for Singapore's real estate investment trust (S-REIT) sector, aimed at fostering resilience and encouraging growth amid economic challenges. These changes may introduce opportunities for strategic advancement while maintaining sectoral stability and boosting investor confidence. In this issue, we delve into the implications of the revised requirements, their impact on S-REITs, and how they reinforce the robust foundation of the S-REIT landscape.
The MAS' proposed amendment for authorised collective investment schemes signifies a forward-thinking step in aligning Singapore's financial sector with global benchmarks. By improving comparability, reducing costs, and ensuring consistency, these changes aim to elevate the nation's financial ecosystem. This issue examines the potential benefits and challenges of the amendment, highlighting the importance of stakeholder feedback and facilitation by MAS and ISCA in navigating this transition.
As IRAS' new GST revisions come into effect, gold jewellers must take proactive steps to ensure compliance. Every detail matters, from verifying customer GST registration to maintaining proper documentation of trade-in arrangements. This issue outlines practical measures jewellers can adopt to streamline operations and comply with IRAS requirements, ensuring a smooth transition to the updated guidelines.
Change is inevitable, and businesses must evolve to stay competitive in an ever-changing business environment. Corporate restructuring is a powerful tool that enables organisations to adapt, build resilience, and unlock their full potential. This issue explores how restructuring strategies can drive growth, optimise operations, and position your company for long-term success. Don't let stagnation hold you back—discover how corporate restructuring can transform your company's challenges into opportunities and foster sustainable growth.
For those who celebrate Chinese New Year, I wish you a Happy and Prosperous Year of the Snake. GONG XI FA CAI!
Frankie Chia
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