Singapore Apex Business Summit

05/08/2024

More than 2,000 delegates gathered at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre to share perspectives and harness insights that empower them for the future of business. Through panel discussions, fireside chats and networking sessions, delegates walked away enriched with renewed clarity to chart the trajectories for their businesses. We were pleased that the summit garnered significant interest, with more than 100 news articles published online, in print and aired on broadcast in both local and international media.

𝗗𝗼𝘄𝗻𝗹𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗔𝗕𝗦 𝗽𝗼𝘀𝘁-𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝘀𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗮𝗽 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲 https://singaporeapexbusinesssummit.com/sabs-newsletter/

A summary of key highlights at SABS 2024:
- DPM Heng launched the “Transforming the Singapore Economy” report, which featured reflections on the development and implementation of the Industry Transformation Maps (ITMs) across 23 sectors, highlighting Singapore’s economic transformation and progress since 2016.
- Launch of the Community Marketplace by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam – an initiative by the SBF Foundation that bridges businesses with social impact.
- Signing of an MoU between Singapore Business Federation and HSBCC – a collaboration that will help Singapore businesses seize new growth opportunities in key trade corridors across the Greater Bay Area (GBA), India and the Middle East.
- Launch of the NCSS SingaporeSustainable Philanthropy Framework – a new Framework to help businesses address the ‘S’ in ESG. The Framework consists of a set of metrics that allow businesses to measure and evaluate the social impact of their philanthropic endeavours.
- Future-Ready Businesses (FRB) Spotlight – a new initiative by SBF that offers participants opportunities to visit organisations pioneering innovative strategies and solutions.
- Launch of SBF’s Centre for the Future of Trade and Investment (CFOTI) a public-private partnership that seeks to build a regional community of trade and investment practitioners, thought leaders and government officials to advance inclusive, sustainable and future-ready global trade.

29/07/2024

Changing trade flows and supply chains were the key topics discussed during the Singapore Apex Business Summit’s Future of Trade Forum on July 25.

The first panel addressed the current geopolitical issues, supply chain disruptions, the importance of trade agreements as well as how businesses, through strategic partnerships, were working together to keep trade up.

Panellist Phil O'Reilly, managing director at Iron Duke Partners, said, “Business carries on, supply chains aren't broken. They are stretched and they're damaged occasionally, and they are more expensive - they're not broken.”

The panellists spoke about the Singapore Business Federation’s newly launched Centre for the Future of Trade and Investment (CFOTI), designed to advance global trade that will be inclusive, sustainable and future-ready.

Discussions on sustainability as well as trade agreements continued well into the next panel session, where panellists discussed the challenges of navigating global trade issues, particularly in the context of sustainability. They highlighted the need for a holistic approach to sustainability, emphasising the importance of technology, integration and transparency in addressing complex regulations.
Panellists also discussed the impact of extraterritorialities on businesses and trade, with concerns raised about protectionism and unintended consequences. Finally, they shared insights on how small businesses can navigate global climate goals and geopolitical tensions through sustainable supply chain management strategies.

View more in the article here: https://singaporeapexbusinesssummit.com/businesses-adapt-to-changing-trade-flows-and-evolving-supply-chains/

29/07/2024

In just six years, between 2015 and 2021, data traffic has quadrupled to around 20 zettabytes, covering both domestic and cross-border flows." Speaking at a fireside chat during the Singapore Apex Business Summit’s Future of Trade Forum, Johanna Hill, Deputy Director-General at the World Trade Organization - WTO highlighted the rise of big data as a key point of competition and collaboration in the future of trade. Yet, with the confluence of political volatility and blurring borders in a digitalised world, businesses are left to navigate an increasingly complex trade landscape.

In that light, it is important for businesses to engage in public-private dialogues on trade policy issues. This helps to bolster the purpose-fit of regulatory measures and catalyze relevant agreements to ease trade flows. In addition, cultivating a strong, tripartite partnership between businesses and governments alongside multilateral and international organisations would be crucial to pool much-needed capital to finance necessary digital infrastructure developments.

The future of trade in a digitalised world also offers the potential to promote a more inclusive growth across countries. In this rise of a new age of data and digitalisation, businesses and governments can ride on the wave of re-globalisation and seize the opportunity to promote equitable growth globally.

View more in the link here: https://singaporeapexbusinesssummit.com/beyond-borders-the-future-of-trade-in-a-digitalised-world/

29/07/2024

Although the summit has come to a close, the echoes of insightful conversations and transformative encounters from the Singapore Apex Business Summit (SABS®) continue to resonate. Relive the highlights of these three inspiring days through our recap video.

View the video at this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wrDaoU5XEKs

Although the summit has come to a close, the echoes of insightful conversations and transformative encounters from the Singapore Apex Business Summit (SABS®)...

25/07/2024

The Singapore Apex Business Summit (SABS®) wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our partners, sponsors, speakers and especially our attendees.

Your positive energy and enthusiasm significantly contributed to the event's resounding success. We trust you enjoyed the opportunity to connect with new colleagues and renew existing relationships.

Stay tuned to our social media channels for more updates and information on upcoming happenings.

View our Day 3 Video: https://youtu.be/jUjP2EtIeok

25/07/2024

We are at Day 3 of the Singapore Apex Business Summit (SABS®) 2024, Future of Trade Forum (FOTF).

Join us as we explore the theme “End of Business as Usual: Global Trade at a Crossroads” with our lineup of plenary and breakout sessions. After the keynote address, we will dive straight into 2 panel sessions, followed by a lunch and fireside chat, before ending the day off with breakout sessions.

25/07/2024

Asia finds itself at a critical juncture where the forces of globalisation and sustainability intersect, presenting both opportunities and challenges that will shape its future.

As the world’s most populated continent and a new economic powerhouse, Asia is a hub for global trade, innovation, and cultural exchange. However, this rapid development brings challenges revolving around sustainability and environmental impact.

Day 2 of the Singapore Apex Business Summit (SABS) focused on how “End of Business as Usual” is transforming regional collaborations towards a sustainable future at the Singapore Regional Business Forum. (SRBF®).

The "When Titans Clash: New Era of Globalisation" panel discussed how Asia's openness to trade and investment has fueled economic growth, but recent geopolitical shifts pose challenges to its export-driven model. The clash between economic powers like the US and China has intensified trade tensions and calls for reevaluating global supply chains.

Concurrently, "Asia’s Path to Net Zero: Challenges & Collaboration" addressed Asia's necessary journey towards sustainability. Despite contributing over 50% of global carbon emissions, the region is increasingly committing to climate goals and adopting renewable energy. However, achieving a low-carbon economy requires substantial investments and collaborative efforts across sectors and countries.

Navigating these complexities, Asia seeks to balance economic prosperity with environmental stewardship through innovative policies and international cooperation which will be pivotal in shaping a resilient and inclusive future.

We also had engaging conversations including Opportunities in Asia Digital Economy, Philanthropy in Asia: From Randomised Acts to Impactful Change, and saw the successful launch of Sustainable Philanthropy Framework by the National Council of Social Service (NCSS).

We rounded the evening with Minister of State Alvin Tan at the Future-ready Networking Dinner that brought the newly conferred Companies of Good and regional business leaders together, fostering meaningful connections among creating collaborative opportunities that drive positive social impact.

Onward to Day 3 of SABS where we will examine the future of trade in the face of geopolitical tensions!

View the Day 2 video here: https://youtu.be/uOSC1VZtlf8

24/07/2024

Keeping costs for businesses in check – that’s what the Singapore government is doing to help shape a more resilient business environment, regionally and globally Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security, Teo Chee Hean, outlined three ways the Singapore government was doing this:

✅Continuing to encourage collaborations towards a more integrated world with regional and cross-regional agreements.

✅Creating partnerships in new domains that represent the future of business such as the digital and green economies

✅Helping to lay the foundation for critical new infrastructure that will support regional trading and resilience

SM Teo, who spoke today at the Singapore Apex Business Summit 2024, singled out the digital economy for its tremendous growth potential. He said the digital economy was 17.3% of Singapore’s GDP in 2022, up from 13% in 2017, with its growth outpacing that of the overall economy.

As for the green economy, Singapore has signed agreements and MOUs with countries like Australia, the UK, Chile and Japan that support economic growth and create jobs in green sectors, while encouraging the decarbonisation of economic activities.

He announced the Singapore government has granted conditional approval for 4.2 GW of low-carbon electricity imports.

Dilhan Pillay Sandrasegara, executive director and CEO of Temasek Holdings and Temasek International, who was also a speaker, said that while there was much talk about derisking and decoupling in a multi-polar world, Singapore businesses had to think about where ASEAN’s value was in the context of “a globalised world and globalised value chains”.

Read the Full Article here: https://bit.ly/FBSABSD2A3

24/07/2024

The Singapore Apex Business Summit (SABS®) delighted to have KnowBe4 join us as a Bronze Sponsor

Come and meet the KnowBe4 crew at the 🇸🇬 Singapore APEX Summit! Find us at booth A08 to explore the latest in cybersecurity and learn how KnowBe4 can help protect your organisation.

24/07/2024

What an incredible 2 days it has been!

The Singapore Apex Business Summit (SABS®) has provided us many valuable insights and unforgettable connections so far. We're grateful for the opportunity to learn alongside and exchange our experiences with so many inspiring peers.

Head over to our Photo Gallery to relive all the highlights from the past two days!

➡️https://singaporeapexbusinesssummit.com/photo-gallery/

24/07/2024

We are delighted to have OCBC participate in the Singapore APEX Business Summit (SABS®) 2024 as a Silver Sponsor.

𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗢𝗖𝗕𝗖
OCBC is the longest established Singapore bank, formed in 1932 from the merger of three local banks, the oldest of which was founded in 1912. Since our incorporation, we have been enabling people and communities to realise their aspirations. This is our purpose.

We are the second largest financial services group in Southeast Asia by assets with one of the world’s highest credit rating (Aa1 by Moody’s and AA- by both Fitch and S&P).

With a deep history in Asia, we offer the most comprehensive coverage across ASEAN and Greater China, complemented with a presence in the leading economies of New York, London and Sydney. As One Group, we support your ambitions across borders with our deep local knowledge – be it growing your personal wealth or capturing business opportunities – for now, and beyond.

OCBC offers private banking services through our wholly-owned subsidiary, Bank of Singapore, which operates on a unique open-architecture product platform to source for the best-in-class products to meet its clients’ goals.

Great Eastern Holdings, our insurance subsidiary, is the oldest and most established life insurance group in Singapore and Malaysia.

Lion Global Investors, our asset management subsidiary, is one of the leading asset management companies in Southeast Asia.
The Group has close to 420 branches and representative offices in 19 countries and regions.

Join Roy Tan (Head, Enterprise Banking International, OCBC) as one of the panellists at the Panel Discussion 1 When Titans Clash: New Era of Globalisation on Day 2 of SABS® at 1010hrs.

24/07/2024

Good morning! The 2nd day of the Singapore Apex Business Summit (SABS®) is about to begin. Today we will kick off the 8th Singapore Regional Business Forum (SRBF®) themed “End of Business as Usual: Transforming Regional Collaborations towards a Sustainable Future”.

After the opening from our Guest-of-Honour, we will start the day with a fireside chat with our keynote speaker followed by plenary sessions all the way till the end of the day.

24/07/2024

Day 1 of the Singapore Apex Business Summit opened with the Future Economy Conference (FEC) in conjunction with Company of Good (COG) Conference, with the aim of inspiring and empowering businesses to embrace innovation, sustainability and social responsibility. Together, they endeavour to pave the way for a brighter, more purpose-driven future for businesses and communities alike.

View the video for more Day 1 highlights!

The summit continues today with the Singapore Regional Business Forum (SRBF®).

Day 1 of the Singapore Apex Business Summit opened with the Future Economy Conference (FEC) in conjunction with Company of Good (COG) Conference, with the ai...

23/07/2024

𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘀𝘁: 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗙𝗹𝗲𝘅𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗔𝗿𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝗮𝘅𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗰𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆

Singapore faces significant demographic challenges with an aging population and low fertility rates, prompting a reevaluation of workplace dynamics. A panel discussion at the Singapore Apex Business Summit 2024 informed delegates how businesses are increasingly turning to flexible work arrangements to not only adapt but thrive in this evolving landscape.

The shift towards flexible work arrangements has been driven by the increasing need for flexibility and inclusivity. By allowing employees to work remotely part-time or full-time, organisations can attract and retain talent from diverse backgrounds, including individuals with caregiving responsibilities or disabilities.

However, this also poses challenges that require proactive management. Ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities for all employees is crucial for maintaining cohesion and inclusivity within the organisation. Leaders must prioritise effective communication and leadership development to cultivate a unified organisational culture. Otherwise, it is not a matter of if but how far off they will be left behind.

View the Full Article Here: https://bit.ly/D1A2FBSABSArticle2024

23/07/2024

Deputy Prime Minister Heng Sweet Keat launched the “Transforming the Singapore Economy” report today at the Singapore Apex Business Summit 2024 held at the Sand Expo and Convention Centre. The first day of the Summit features the Future Economy Conference organised by SBF , which was held in conjunction with the Company of Good Conference organised by the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre.

The report celebrates the contributions of stakeholders who have contributed to Singapore’s economic transformation over the past few years, and highlights Singapore’s economic transformation efforts since 2016.

Transformation is critical for businesses as they navigate digital shifts and emerging smart technologies, a responsibility that business leaders cannot outsource. Jeremy Tan, co-founder of Tin Men Capital, said leaders need to get on board for digital change to be effective. Vincent Phang, group CEO of Singapore Post, added that innovation was a choice and urged organisations to go back to their purpose and ask what are the things that matter to them.

View the Full Article in this Link: https://bit.ly/FBOCerSpeechSABS24

23/07/2024

Right after the Opening Speech from Guest-of-Honour, Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat, we will kickstart day 1 of the Singapore Apex Business Summit (SABS®) with the Future Economy Conference (FEC) in conjunction with Company of Good (COG) Conference.

Here’s the schedule for Day 1 at SABS®

22/07/2024

Heading down to the Singapore Apex Business Summit (SABS®)?

Spot the SABS® signages and our friendly ushers at Level 1 to get directions from the signages and directories that will lead you to the Sands Grand Ballroom at Level 5.

Here's how to get to SABS®:

📍 Address: 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018956
🎤 Conferences (23 – 25 Jul) are held at the Sands Grand Ballroom at Level 5
🚇 Nearest MRT: Bayfront MRT Station Exit E (CE1/DT16)
🚗 Parking: Park at Marina Bay Sands

For information on parking locations and rates, visit: https://www.marinabaysands.com/company-information/parking-at-marina-bay-sands.html

For detailed directions, visit: https://www.marinabaysands.com/company-information/directions-to-marina-bay-sands.html

For more information on the day’s programme, visit https://singaporeapexbusinesssummit.com/

22/07/2024

Singapore Apex Business Summit (SABS®) begins tomorrow. Get ready as the representatives of businesses of all sizes come together to glean insights and learn from the experience of leaders and subject matter experts.
With more than 2,000 participants anticipated at this year’s SABS®, the summit will bring together six political office holders and over 100 speakers across 20 plenary sessions. Each of the three days is themed around a premier business and networking event.

Download the Official SABS® Programme Booklet at and the SABS® 2024 App to get all the updated information on the Summit.

See you there!

To download the SABS® App:

1. Go to Appstore for Apple Users or Google Playstore for Android Users
2. Key in “SABS 2024” on the search bar
3. Download the App
4. Get the latest information on SABS®