Monday Wrap: GDP trim, connectivity, and targeted pay rises

Singapore retained its position as the world’s most connected economy.

Last week in Singapore Business Review, the economic outlook took a hit despite stronger exports, Singapore remains the world’s most connected economy, and companies were urged to target pay rises as wages climb.

Forecasted GDP growth has been trimmed from 3.6% to 3.4% as rising geopolitical tensions threaten trade, despite non-oil domestic exports climbing 6.7% in the first two months of 2026.

The country retained its position as the world’s most connected economy amongst 180 countries, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions such as the separation between the US and China.

Large enterprises were more confident than small and medium-sized enterprises about Budget 2026’s impact on Singapore’s status as a regional and global hub, with 82% expressing optimism.

Analysts urged companies to target pay rises at key roles that drive results, rather than giving broad-based increases, ahead of a projected 4% salary rise this year.

A Maybank report revealed that the REIT sector is focusing on inorganic growth and asset recycling, backed by tight cap rates and resilient economic momentum.

Lastly, venture capital investors are focusing on startups with clearer paths to profitability, stepping back from speculative early-stage bets.

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