Singapore Budget 2025: Key Takeaways & What It Means for You

SingSaver team

SingSaver team

Last updated 22 February, 2025

As Singapore turns 60 in 2025, the nation’s latest budget reflects both celebration and pragmatism. Unveiled by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, the Singapore Budget 2025 balances immediate cost-of-living relief with long-term strategies for economic resilience and sustainability. Whether you’re a parent juggling expenses, a business owner navigating digital transformation or a retiree planning your golden years, this budget has ripple effects for all. Let’s unpack what it means for your wallet, work and future

Overview of Singapore Budget 2025

The annual budget serves as the government’s financial blueprint, detailing how public funds will be raised and spent. This year’s priorities are clear: cushion households from inflation, future-proof businesses and accelerate green initiatives. With global uncertainties looming, the plan also aims to reinforce Singapore’s position as a competitive, compassionate and climate-conscious economy.

Impact on stakeholders

  • Individuals: Expect enhanced subsidies, tax rebates and cash payouts.
  • Businesses: Look out for grants, productivity incentives and green transition support.
  • Economy: Projections focus on steady growth through innovation and strategic investments.

Key themes

  • Economic resilience: Bolstering key sectors like tech and infrastructure.
  • Cost-of-living support: Direct aid for essentials like utilities and childcare.
  • Sustainability: Funding for decarbonisation and renewable energy projects.

In this article, we’ll break down major announcements, analyse their implications and offer tips to maximise benefits — from claiming rebates to leveraging business grants. Let’s dive in.

1. Key takeaways from the Singapore Budget 2025

The Singapore Budget 2025 arrives at a crucial juncture, balancing the need for immediate relief with long-term strategic investments. This year's budget emphasises economic resilience, cost-of-living support, and sustainability, all while celebrating the nation's 60th birthday. Let's delve into the key takeaways.

 

1.1 Government’s top priorities for 2025

  • Economic resilience: Recognising the uncertain global economic landscape, the government is allocating significant funds to bolster key sectors. This includes continued investment in technology and infrastructure, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence, biomedical sciences, and sustainable infrastructure development. These investments aim to position Singapore as a global leader in innovation and attract high-value industries, ensuring long-term economic stability and creating quality jobs for Singaporeans. For example, we might see further funding for research and development in AI, or incentives for companies to set up regional headquarters in Singapore.
  • Workforce development: The rapid pace of technological change necessitates a proactive approach to workforce development. Budget 2025 invests in upskilling and reskilling programmes to equip workers with the skills needed for future industries. This includes initiatives focused on digital literacy, green skills, and advanced manufacturing. We might see expanded opportunities for mid-career workers to transition to new sectors, or enhanced support for individuals pursuing lifelong learning.
  • Inflation control: Rising living costs remain a concern for many households. The budget addresses this through a combination of targeted subsidies and rebates aimed at managing the impact of inflation on essential goods and services. These measures include enhancements to existing schemes like the GST Voucher scheme, additional support for families with young children and elderly dependents, and more.
  • Sustainability initiatives: Singapore has committed to ambitious climate goals. Budget 2025 reinforces this commitment with further funding for decarbonisation efforts and renewable energy projects. This could include incentives for businesses to adopt green technologies, investments in public transport infrastructure, and support for research into clean energy solutions.

1.2 Major announcements from PM Lawrence Wong’s budget statement

Beyond the core priorities, PM Wong's budget statement included several noteworthy announcements:

  • SG60 commemorative benefits: To mark Singapore's 60th anniversary, the government is introducing special payouts and vouchers for citizens. These benefits aim to celebrate this milestone and express appreciation for the contributions of past generations. Details on the eligibility criteria and the value of these benefits will be released later.
  • Tax reforms: The budget includes adjustments to personal and corporate tax structures. These reforms could aim to promote fairness and competitiveness, potentially through adjustments to tax brackets or incentives for businesses that invest in research and development or adopt sustainable practices.
  • Housing grants: Recognising the importance of affordable housing, the government is enhancing support for first-time homebuyers and low-income families. These enhancements could include increased grant amounts or more flexible eligibility criteria for housing schemes.

1.3 Beneficiaries of the budget

  • Individuals: Individuals can expect enhanced subsidies, tax reliefs, and direct financial support to help manage cost-of-living pressures. The SG60 commemorative benefits will also provide a welcome boost.
  • Businesses: Businesses will have access to grants, tax incentives, and support for digital transformation and green initiatives. These measures aim to help businesses remain competitive and adapt to the changing economic landscape.
  • Investors: Investors can look forward to opportunities arising from government-backed projects and favourable tax policies. The focus on innovation and sustainable development could also create attractive investment prospects.

2. Support for households and individuals

The Singapore Budget 2025 recognises the diverse needs of households and individuals, offering a range of support measures designed to ease cost-of-living pressures, enhance family support, and address housing affordability.

2.1 Cost-of-living support measures

Navigating the current economic climate can be challenging. The budget includes several measures aimed at mitigating the impact of inflation and providing direct financial assistance to households.

image1-Feb-22-2025-07-07-41-2387-AM

Taken from https://www.gov.sg/budget-2025 on 21st Feb

2.1.1 SG60 benefits and payout

Celebrating Singapore's 60th birthday, the government is providing special benefits and payouts to individuals and households.

SG60 vouchers All Singaporeans aged 21 to 59 will receive S$600, while Singaporeans aged 60 and above will receive S$800. 

These vouchers will be disbursed across July 2025, and can be used at all participating businesses of the CVC voucher scheme.
CDC vouchers A total of S$800 will be distributed in two tranches — S$500 in May 2025 and S$300 in January 2026. 
These vouchers can be used at participating merchants, hawker stalls, and supermarkets, providing flexibility in how households choose to spend this support.
Cash payouts The Assurance Package provides additional cash assistance to eligible Singaporeans: 
  • Those with assessable income up to S$34,000 will receive S$600
  • Those with assessable income more than S$34,000 and up to S$100,000 will receive S$350
  • Those who own more than one property or have an assessable income of more than S$100,000 will receive S$100.
In addition, the GST Voucher scheme continues to provide support for lower- and middle-income Singaporeans. Eligible individuals will receive a cash payout of either S$450 or S$850, depending on their income and property ownership.

2.1.2 U-Save rebates

HDB households will receive added support with their utility bills through enhanced U-Save rebates. These rebates are estimated to cover approximately six months of utilities for those living in 1- and 2-room flats, and three months for those in 3- and 4-room flats.

Eligibility: HDB households where household members do not own more than one property.

Rebate amounts: Between S$440 and S$760, depending on flat type (households living in smaller properties will receive greater support).

Disbursement schedule: April and October 2025.

2.1.3 S&CC rebates

On the same note, the government is also providing Service & Conservancy Charges (S&CC) rebates to HDB households.

Eligibility: All HDB households.

Rebate amounts: These rebates will offset between 1.5 to 3.5 months of S&CC charges.

Flat type Rebate amount
1- and 2-room flats 3 months
3-room flats 3 months
4- and 5-room flats 2.5 months
Executive and multi-gen flats 1.5 months

Disbursement schedule: Rebates will be disbursed in April, July and October 2025.

2.1.4 Inflation mitigation efforts

Beyond the direct payouts and rebates, the government is also continuing its broader efforts to manage inflation and its entailed effects.

Personal income tax rebate: To provide relief and boost disposable income, tax residents will receive a personal income tax rebate of 60% of tax payable for the Year of Assessment 2025, capped at S$200.

BTO supply ramp-up: To address concerns about rising housing costs, the government is significantly increasing the supply of Build-to-Order (BTO) flats. Over the next three years, HDB will launch more than 50,000 new flats in various locations. This year alone, HDB will launch around 3,800 flats with a waiting time of less than three years. This increased supply aims to moderate demand and keep flat prices affordable.

2.2 Support for families and seniors

The Singapore Budget 2025 acknowledges the financial pressures faced by families and the growing needs of Singapore's ageing population. It introduces a series of measures aimed at alleviating costs, enhancing support networks, and promoting intergenerational bonding.

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2.2.1 Building a Singapore made for families

The budget introduces a range of initiatives focused on families, with the stated aim of alleviating financial pressures associated with raising children. These measures include direct financial assistance, support for childcare costs, and incentives for education savings.

Child LifeSG credits S$500 in Child LifeSG credits will be provided per child aged 12 and below, disbursed to families for child-related expenses. These credits can be used for a variety of child-related expenses, such as childcare fees and enrichment classes.
Edusave / Post-Secondary Education Account top-up To further support the educational journey of young Singaporeans, the government is providing a S$500 top-up to the Edusave Account or Post-Secondary Education Account of all Singaporean children aged 13 to 20.
Lower childcare fee caps To make childcare more affordable, the government will be lowering the monthly full-day childcare fee caps in Government-supported preschools. Monthly fees will now be capped at S$610 for anchor operator centres and S$650 for partner operator centres.
New “Large Families Scheme”

Understanding that larger families have unique needs, the government is introducing a new Large Families Scheme with several components:

  • Increased CDA First Step Grant: The CDA First Step Grant for third and subsequent children will be increased by S$5,000 to S$8,000. This will give parents a head start in saving for their children's future.
  • Large Family MediSave Grant: Mothers will receive a S$5,000 Large Family MediSave Grant for each third and subsequent child. This will provide additional support for healthcare expenses.
  • Large Family LifeSG Credits: Families will receive S$1,000 in Large Family LifeSG Credits annually for each third and subsequent child, in the years the child turns 1 to 6. This will provide ongoing support for various child-related expenses.

2.2.2 Facilitating healthy and secure ageing

Several measures in the budget focus on supporting seniors, with the intention of addressing the healthcare and long-term care needs of an ageing population. These measures include care services, and support for home modifications.

New five-year Matched MediSave Scheme To encourage families to support their seniors' healthcare needs, the government is introducing a new five-year Matched MediSave Scheme (MMSS). Under this scheme, the government will match every dollar of cash top-up made to the MediSave Account (MA) of eligible CPF members, up to an annual cap of S$1,000. This matching grant will be disbursed to eligible members in the following year.
Higher long-term care subsidies and grants The government will increase subsidies and grants for various long-term care services, including nursing homes, day care centres, and home-based care. The income eligibility criteria for these subsidies will also be broadened to cover more households.
Expansion of EASE The Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) programme, which helps seniors make their homes safer and more elder-friendly, will be expanded to include Singaporean private property households for the next three years.

2.3 Support for caregivers and people of vulnerability

image2-Feb-22-2025-07-17-31-8261-AM

Taken from https://www.gov.sg/budget-2025 on 21st Feb

The Singapore Budget 2025 recognises the challenges faced by vulnerable families and persons with disabilities, and introduces a range of measures to enhance their resilience and well-being.

  • Enhancements to the Fresh Start Housing Scheme: The Fresh Start Housing Scheme, which helps families with children living in public rental flats transition to homeownership, will be enhanced. Eligible families will now receive a S$75,000 grant, up from S$50,000.
  • Higher ComCare assistance rates: To provide greater financial support for vulnerable families, ComCare assistance rates will be increased. This includes both short-to-medium-term and long-term assistance, with adjustments based on household size, needs, and income. For example, a single-person household receiving long-term assistance will see their monthly payout increase by S$120, to a total of S$760.
  • Extension of Enabling Employment Credit: The Enabling Employment Credit, which provides wage offsets to employers who hire persons with disabilities, will be extended to 2028. This will continue to incentivise the employment of persons with disabilities and promote greater workplace inclusion.
  • Higher subsidy rates for adult disability services: Subsidy rates for various adult disability services will be increased, and the income eligibility criteria will be broadened to cover more households. This will make essential services more accessible and affordable for persons with disabilities and their families.
  • Matched Retirement Savings Scheme for persons with disabilities: A new Matched Retirement Savings Scheme will be introduced for Singaporeans with disabilities of all ages. This scheme will provide a dollar-for-dollar matching grant for cash top-ups made to their CPF Retirement Account, up to a cap of S$1,000 per year.
  • Matching grant for Special Needs Trust Company (SNTC) trust accounts: The Home Caregiving Grant, which provides financial assistance to families caring for loved ones with moderate to severe disabilities, will be increased from S$200 to S$600 per month.
  • Home Caregiving Grant: The Home Caregiving Grant, which provides financial assistance to families caring for loved ones with moderate to severe disabilities, will be increased to further alleviate the financial burden of caregiving.
  • Respite Care Services: To provide caregivers with temporary relief from their caregiving duties, the government will continue to subsidise respite care services. These services offer short-term care options, allowing caregivers to take a break and recharge.

2.4 Housing & property market changes

From ensuring affordability to promoting sustainability, Singapore Budget 2025 is also taking steps to create a property market that meets the needs of all Singaporeans.

2.4.1 Boosting housing accessibility and affordability

The government is taking a multi-pronged approach to keep public housing accessible and affordable. As previously brought up, HDB will launch 3,800 new flats this year with shorter waiting times, potentially easing pressure on the resale market and giving -time HDB buyers more affordable options and a better chance in the balloting process.

The Fresh Start Scheme is also being expanded, allowing more families, including first-timers in public rental flats, to access subsidised flats with shorter leases and achieve their homeownership dreams. Additionally, most homeowners will enjoy lower property taxes, providing some relief amidst rising living costs.

2.4.2 Investing in innovation and infrastructure

Budget 2025 also focuses on strategic investments that will shape the future of Singapore's property landscape. A S$3 billion boost for R&D in One-North, with a focus on Biotech and Medtech, could increase rental demand and create investment opportunities in the area, benefiting both residents and investors.

Meanwhile, continued investment in rail infrastructure will improve connectivity for commuters. As the MRT network expands, property buyers may want to shift their focus from single-station proximity to access to multiple lines and convenient interchanges.

2.4.3 Supporting home improvements and sustainability

Recognising the needs of both homeowners and the environment, Budget 2025 introduces several initiatives. The aforementioned EASE programme is being extended, allowing more seniors, including those in private properties, to adapt their homes for safety and comfort. 
Furthermore, both HDB and private homeowners can now utilise S$400 climate vouchers to make their homes more eco-friendly.

3. Support for businesses & enterprises

On the business end of things, Singapore Budget 2025 focuses on supporting companies in navigating economic uncertainties, embracing innovation, and transitioning towards a sustainable future. A range of measures, from tax adjustments to enhanced , aim to empower businesses of all sizes to thrive in the evolving landscape.

3.1 Easing business costs

  • Corporate Income Tax (CIT) rebate: To alleviate the burden of corporate income tax, the government is providing a significant rebate for the Year of Assessment (YA) 2025.
    • Rebate details: A 50% rebate on tax payable for YA 2025, capped at S$40,000 per company. Importantly, there's a minimum benefit of S$2,000 for active companies.
    • Eligibility: Active companies employing at least one local employee in 2024. This ensures that the support is directed towards businesses that contribute to the local workforce.
    • Disbursement: The rebate will be automatically applied, with benefits received from Q2 2025 onwards, streamlining the process for businesses.
  • Progressive Wage Credit Scheme (PWCS) Enhancement: The PWCS, which co-funds wage increases for lower-wage workers, will see enhanced support in 2025 and 2026, to uplift lower-wage workers and ensure inclusive growth. The raised co-funding levels can help businesses adjust to progressive wage requirements while ensuring that workers receive fair compensation.

3.2 Fostering innovation and technology adoption

  • National Productivity Fund (NPF) top-up: The NPF, a key driver of productivity enhancements and innovation, receives a substantial S$3 billion top-up this year, further enabling businesses to invest in new technologies, upgrade their equipment, and train their workforce. The fund will support various initiatives, including cash grants and investment credits, to attract foreign investments and encourage businesses to adopt cutting-edge solutions.
  • Investing in R&D infrastructure: To create a conducive environment for research and development, the government is investing S$1 billion in R&D infrastructure. This investment will support the development of advanced facilities and equipment, seeking to attract top researchers and foster collaboration between academia and industry.
  • Enterprise Compute Initiative: A new S$150 million Enterprise Compute Initiative will help businesses access and adopt advanced computing resources, such as cloud computing and artificial intelligence.

3.3 Strengthening the business ecosystem

  • Support for internationalisation: The government will extend support schemes for internationalisation, helping businesses expand their reach into overseas markets. This includes financial assistance for market research, business development, and overseas setup costs.
  • Support for mergers and acquisitions (M&A): Support for M&A activities will also be extended. This will facilitate consolidation within industries, enabling businesses to achieve economies of scale and enhance their competitiveness.
  • Development of Singapore’s equities market: Tax incentives will support the development of the equities market, making it more attractive for companies to list on the Singapore Exchange (SGX).
  • Private Credit Growth Fund: A new S$1 billion Private Credit Growth Fund will be established to support the growth of the private credit market in Singapore. This fund will provide financing to businesses, particularly SMEs, that may have difficulty accessing traditional bank loans.
  • Global Founder Programme: The government will launch a Global Founder Programme to attract and nurture promising startups and entrepreneurs. This programme will provide mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities to help founders build and scale their businesses in Singapore.

3.4 Investing in future-ready Infrastructure

  • Changi Airport Development Fund top-up: The Changi Airport Development Fund will receive a S$5 billion top-up to support the development of new facilities and infrastructure at Changi Airport.
  • Future Energy Fund top-up: The Future Energy Fund will receive a S$5 billion top-up to support investments in renewable energy projects, research and development in clean energy technologies, and the development of a green energy ecosystem in Singapore.

4. Employment & workforce development

In terms of its focus on developing the country’s greatest asset – its workforce – this year's budget emphasises encouraging lifelong learning, supporting workforce transformation, and strengthening employment support for all Singaporeans.

image5-Feb-22-2025-07-31-30-7350-AM

  • SkillsFuture & upskilling initiatives: Recognising the challenges faced by mid-career workers, the SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme will be introduced for Singaporeans aged 40 and above. The programme aims to provide targeted support for upskilling and reskilling, enabling individuals to remain competitive in the job market:
    • New training allowance: From early 2026, a new S$300 monthly training allowance will be available for selected part-time courses under the SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme. This allowance will help offset the costs of training and encourage more individuals to pursue further education.
    • Enhanced Workfare Skills Support: Workfare Skills Support will be enhanced from early 2026 for lower-wage workers aged 30 and above. This enhancement will provide greater financial assistance for training, empowering lower-wage workers to acquire new skills and improve their earning potential. A monthly training allowance will also be available for selected part-time and full-time courses.
  • Supporting workforce transformation: Beyond individual upskilling, Budget 2025 also addresses the need for businesses to transform and adapt:
    • SkillsFuture Workforce Development Grant: A new SkillsFuture Workforce Development Grant will be introduced, providing up to 70% funding support for job redesign projects. This grant will enable companies to restructure roles, improve workflows, and enhance productivity, ensuring that their workforce remains relevant in a dynamic business environment.
    • SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit: The redesigned SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit will provide eligible companies with S$10,000 from the second half of 2026. This credit can be used to offset out-of-pocket costs associated with eligible workforce transformation initiatives, making it easier for businesses to invest in the development of their employees.
    • NTUC’s Company Training Committee (CTC) Grant: An additional S$200 million will be allocated to NTUC’s Company Training Committee (CTC) Grant. This increased funding will enable more companies to establish CTCs and implement effective training programmes for their workers, fostering a culture of continuous learning within organisations.
  • Strengthening employment support: The government recognises the importance of providing targeted support to specific segments of the workforce, including senior workers and ex-offenders. Budget 2025 includes measures to encourage the hiring and retention of these individuals.
    • CPF Transition Offset: To support senior workers transitioning to higher CPF contribution rates, the government will provide a CPF Transition Offset. This offset will cover half the increase in employer CPF contributions for senior workers aged above 55 to 65. This measure will help businesses retain experienced workers and ensure a smoother transition to the new CPF rates.
    • Senior Employment Credit: The Senior Employment Credit, which offsets wages for hiring senior workers, will be extended to 2026. This extension will continue to incentivise businesses to employ older workers and benefit from their valuable experience.
    • Uplifting Employment Credit: The Uplifting Employment Credit, which offsets wages for hiring ex-offenders, will be extended to 2028. This extension demonstrates the government's commitment to providing second chances and supporting the reintegration of ex-offenders into the workforce.

5. Tax changes and financial policies

Singapore Budget 2025 introduces a series of tax changes and financial policies (some of which have already been covered in preceding sections, but will be talked about again in a different light) aimed at strengthening the nation's economic foundations, supporting businesses, and promoting investment in key sectors .

These measures seek to enhance Singapore's competitiveness, encourage innovation, and ensure long-term economic sustainability.

5.1 Corporate tax measures

  • Corporate Income Tax (CIT) rebate: For Year of Assessment (YA) 2025, companies will enjoy a 50% CIT rebate on their Singapore tax liability, capped at S$40,000 per company. Active companies employing at least one local employee in 2024 will qualify for a minimum cash payout of S$2,000. This rebate provides broad-based support to businesses, particularly benefiting SMEs and those facing economic challenges.
  • Extension of key schemes: The Merger and Acquisitions (M&A) scheme and the Double Tax Deduction for Internationalisation (DTDi) scheme will both be extended until 31 December 2030. The M&A scheme provides tax benefits for qualifying acquisitions, while the DTDi scheme allows businesses a 200% tax deduction on qualifying market expansion and investment development expenses. These extensions provide greater certainty for businesses and encourage both domestic and international growth.
  • Enhanced safe harbour exemption: Enhancements to the safe harbour exemption under Section 13W of the Singapore Income Tax Act will expand the scope of eligible gains to include preference shares that qualify as equity. The assessment of the shareholding threshold will also be made more flexible, and the sunset date of the exemption has been removed. These changes provide greater clarity and certainty for investors, making Singapore an even more attractive investment destination.
  • Tax deductions for Cost-Sharing Arrangements (CSAs): From 19 February 2025, companies can claim a 100% tax deduction on payments made under approved CSAs for innovation activities, even if these activities do not strictly fall under the definition of "research and development." This measure encourages collaborative innovation and allows businesses to deduct expenses related to a wider range of innovative activities.
  • Enhanced Employee Equity-Based Remuneration (EEBR) Scheme: The EEBR Scheme, which allows businesses to claim tax deductions for treasury shares transferred to employees, has been enhanced. It now allows a tax deduction on payments to holding companies or special purpose vehicles for the issuance of new shares. This enhancement provides greater flexibility for businesses in managing their equity-based compensation plans.

5.2 Financial sector incentives

  • Listing CIT rebate: A new listing CIT rebate will be introduced for qualifying entities listing on the Singapore Exchange (SGX). This rebate offers a 10% or 20% tax rebate (for primary or secondary listings, respectively) for companies and registered business trusts with a market capitalisation of at least S$1 billion. This incentive aims to attract more high-quality listings to the SGX.
  • Enhanced corporate tax rate for fund managers: An enhanced corporate tax rate tier of 5% will be introduced under the Financial Sector Incentive – Fund Management (FSI-FM) Scheme for newly listed fund managers meeting certain conditions. This lower tax rate aims to encourage fund managers to list in Singapore and strengthen the asset management industry.
  • Tax exemption for fund managers: A corporate tax exemption will be introduced for management and advisory fees earned by qualifying fund managers from funds that invest substantially in Singapore-listed equities. This exemption aims to promote investment in the local equities market and enhance its liquidity.

5.3 REITs and private credit

  • Enhanced tax concessions for S-REITs: Tax concessions for Singapore-listed REITs (S-REITs) will be extended and enhanced. This includes expanding the scope of tax transparency, refining the tax exemption on foreign-sourced income, and extending the GST remission for S-REITs. These measures aim to maintain Singapore's attractiveness as a REITs hub.
  • Private Credit Growth Fund: A new S$1 billion Private Credit Growth Fund will be established to provide alternative financing options for high-growth local enterprises. This fund will support businesses that may face challenges in accessing traditional bank loans, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

5.4 Shipping industry incentives

  • Approved Shipping Financing Arrangement (ASFA) Award: A new ASFA Award will provide withholding tax exemption on interest payments and lease payments related to the financing of ships and containers. This incentive aims to reduce the cost of financing for shipping companies and enhance Singapore's position as a leading maritime hub.
  • Enhancements to the Maritime Sector Incentive (MSI): The MSI, which provides tax concessions to various maritime businesses, will be extended and enhanced to cover new areas such as emission management services and maritime technology services.

6. Reactions and expert analyses

Singapore Budget 2025 has garnered considerable attention from financial institutions, consulting firms, and the public alike. Here's a roundup of the reactions and expert analyses:

6.1 Insights from financial institutions

  • DBS Bank: DBS analysts welcome the budget's balanced approach to economic growth and cost-of-living support. They emphasise the importance of businesses leveraging available grants and incentives to enhance productivity and innovation.
  • JP Morgan: JP Morgan has upgraded Singapore equities to "overweight", citing attractive valuations, strong dividend yields, and government initiatives to revitalise the local stock market. They anticipate that ongoing support for households and businesses, coupled with investments in innovation, will sustain robust economic activity and create new growth opportunities. Analysts have set a target of 4,200 for Singapore's benchmark index, indicating a potential 6% increase.

6.2 Perspectives from consulting firms

  • KPMG Singapore: KPMG highlights the S$3 billion top-up to the National Productivity Fund, enabling Singapore to offer competitive cash grants and investment credits to attract investments. They also note the significant S$5 billion allocation for Changi Airport's Terminal 5, reinforcing Singapore's position as a global air transport hub. KPMG also applauds the introduction of various tax incentives for listed entities, the 50% corporate income tax rebate, and the extension of schemes like the M&A and DTDi, which support business growth and international expansion.
  • Grant Thornton Singapore: Grant Thornton applauds the extension of the DTDi scheme until 31 December 2030, facilitating market expansion for local enterprises. They also recognise the government's proactive stance on sustainability, particularly the investments in carbon capture and storage technologies.
  • Deloitte Singapore: Deloitte commends the strategic use of the FY2024 budget surplus to provide SG60 benefits, stimulating domestic consumption. They also acknowledge the commitment to strengthening Singapore's R&D ecosystem, particularly through the development of a national semiconductor R&D fabrication facility, positioning Singapore as a leader in technology and innovation. Furthermore, Deloitte highlights the introduction of targeted tax reliefs and support for overseas expansion, ensuring that Singapore remains a premier hub for investment and enterprise.
  • PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Singapore: PwC praises the introduction of the Refundable Investment Credit (RIC) regime, offering attractive tax credits for companies undertaking specified activities. They also support the launch of the Global Founder Programme (GFP), aimed at attracting experienced entrepreneurs to Singapore. PwC further applauds the government's commitment to enterprise AI adoption, facilitating access to necessary resources for businesses to stay competitive. 

6.3 Public reactions

  • Cost-of-living support: The SG60 benefits, including the S$800 in CDC vouchers and additional support for utility bills, have been widely welcomed by Singaporeans as timely aid in the face of rising living costs.
  • Housing and property measures: First-time homebuyers and low-income families reportedly appreciate the enhanced housing grants and rental support, viewing them as positive steps towards more affordable housing.
  • Sustainability initiatives: Environmental groups and eco-conscious citizens have publicly lauded the increased investments in green infrastructure and the commitment to carbon tax adjustments, reflecting a strong governmental push towards sustainability.

Overall, Singapore Budget 2025 has been met with positive reactions, with many appreciating the government's efforts to balance immediate needs with long-term strategic goals. While some concerns remain about the potential impact of certain measures, the general sentiment is one of optimism and confidence in Singapore's continued economic success.

7. What all this means for you: Actionable steps

Singapore Budget 2025 presents a range of opportunities for individuals, businesses, and investors:

7.1 For individuals

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  • Maximise your SG60 benefits: Take full advantage of the SG60 vouchers and cash payouts to offset expenses and boost your savings. Explore participating merchants and plan your spending wisely.
  • Claim your rebates: Ensure you claim all eligible rebates, including the U-Save rebates, S&CC rebates, and personal income tax rebate. These rebates can provide significant savings on essential expenses.
  • Explore support for families and seniors: If you're a parent, explore the enhanced Child Development Account (CDA) grants, lower childcare fee caps, and the new Large Families Scheme. If you're caring for elderly parents, look into the Matched MediSave Scheme and increased subsidies for long-term care services.
  • Utilise housing grants and schemes: If you're a first-time homebuyer or from a lower-income family, explore the enhanced housing grants and schemes available to help you achieve your homeownership goals.
  • Invest in your skills: Take advantage of the SkillsFuture initiatives and training allowances to upskill or reskill yourself. This will enhance your employability and future-proof your career.

For businesses

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  • Claim your CIT rebate: Ensure you claim the 50% CIT rebate for YA 2025, which can provide significant tax savings.
  • Leverage grants and incentives: Explore the various grants and incentives available, such as the SkillsFuture Workforce Development Grant, SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit, and NTUC's CTC Grant, to support workforce transformation and technology adoption.
  • Expand your business: Take advantage of the extended M&A and DTDi schemes to pursue growth opportunities, both domestically and internationally.
  • Explore alternative financing: If you're an SME facing challenges in accessing traditional bank loans, consider the new Private Credit Growth Fund as a potential financing option.
  • Embrace sustainability: Explore incentives and grants for adopting green technologies and practices, contributing to Singapore's sustainability goals while potentially reducing your business costs.

7.3 For investors

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  • Capitalise on market opportunities: Consider investing in sectors and companies that are aligned with the government's strategic priorities, such as technology, innovation, and sustainability.
  • Explore REITs: With the enhanced tax concessions for S-REITs, consider adding REITs to your investment portfolio for potential stable income and diversification.
  • Support promising startups: Explore opportunities to invest in promising startups through the Global Founder Programme, contributing to Singapore's entrepreneurial ecosystem while potentially reaping significant returns.

By taking these actionable steps, you can position yourself to benefit from the various initiatives and opportunities presented in Singapore Budget 2025. Stay informed, plan ahead, and make the most of the resources available to achieve your financial and career goals.

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