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Gold’s Path to $4,000: Macro Drivers, Market Sentiment, and Strategic Insight by global broker Octa


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2025 – Gold has kept on rising almost uninterruptedly for most of 2025, recording a series of new all-time highs. Since October 2022, the metal’s price has almost doubled, having risen by more than 25% in 2025 alone, hitting a fresh all-time high of $3,500 per ounce on April 22. A $4,000 price level, once dismissed as fantasy, is now openly being discussed on trading floors across the globe. Octa Broker examines the forces behind gold’s remarkable rally — and what might come next.

Octa Broker

Geopolitical Tensions as the Main Catalyst

The global environment in 2025 is anything but peaceful. The wars in the Middle East and Eastern Europe remain, and their long-term resolution still seems to be out of reach. The U.S.–China relations have taken a sharp downward turn. The latest installment of hostilities is being acted out in tariffs: the Trump administration has resumed a trade war footing, with China retaliating by raising tariffs on U.S. goods to 125% from 84%. Recently, the USA admitted that the tariffs for China could be increased up to 245%. This intensifying global uncertainty has propelled investors toward safe-haven assets, and none are more tried-and-tested than gold. As global trade frays and economic growth outlooks dim, gold’s role as a hedge becomes more pronounced.

Monetary Policy Expectations and Rate Cut Bets

Historically, gold tends to perform better when the interest rates are low. The current U.S. monetary policy outlook suggests a favourable environment for the precious metal. In response to weakening economic signals, the Federal Reserve (Fed) is widely expected to cut interest rates at least twice in 2025. The latest Labour Department data revealed a surprise drop in U.S. consumer prices in March, bolstering expectations of a looser policy stance by mid-year. Market participants now factor in a roughly 30% chance of a full percentage point cut by December.

However, with inflation potentially resurging due to tariffs, the Fed could be forced to reverse course. Such a move might derail gold’s momentum. Still, for now, lower rates make non-yielding assets like gold more attractive, creating the potential for further price gains.

Weak Dollar Boosts Gold’s Appeal

The U.S. dollar index recently recorded its sharpest decline since 2022, hitting new yearly lows. As Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, explains: ‘A weaker greenback typically supports gold by making it more affordable for holders of other currencies. This trend, together with the increasing uncertainty, has encouraged strong demand, further fuelling the rally’. Indeed, the increasing demand has been evident since the beginning of the year. In the middle of April, gold fund net inflows hit a record $80 billion year-to-date, according to BofA Global Research.

Central Bank Buying and De-Dollarisation

Another bullish factor for gold is the rise in structural physical demand — especially, when it comes to global central banks that increase their gold reserves at an aggressive pace. People’s Bank of China raised its gold holdings to a record level in Q1 2025, underscoring the metal’s strategic importance. This structural demand aligns with the broader BRICS-led push for de-dollarisation. Diversifying away from U.S. Treasuries and the dollar, several countries are turning to gold as a reliable store of value — bolstering long-term demand fundamentals.

ETF Flows Reflect Retail and Institutional Demand

The growing optimism among investors regarding gold is also evident in exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Gold-backed ETFs experienced significant inflows in March 2025, particularly in North America. These flows indicate robust interest from both retail investors and institutional players, further tightening the market.

Key Risks to the $4,000 Scenario

Despite the underlying bullish environment, gold may fall short of the $4,000 target and, instead, experience a significant downward correction due to several factors:

  • Inflation Surprise and Rate Reversal. If tariffs and supply disruptions reignite inflation, central banks may be forced to abandon dovish policies. A Fed reversal to a tightening bias could strengthen the dollar and exert a downward pressure on gold prices — potentially disrupting the bullish narrative.
  • Geopolitical Stabilisation. A de-escalation of global tensions, particularly between the U.S. and China or in Eastern Europe, could sharply reduce safe-haven demand. While this is not the base case for 2025, it remains a wildcard risk that traders must consider. Indeed, XAUUSD has already pulled back from its recent highs after the U.S. President Donald Trump hinted at lower tariffs for China.
  • Overbought Technical Conditions. Gold’s sharp rally raises the likelihood of corrective pullbacks. If momentum slows, profit-taking could spark a swift and dramatic sell-off. As with any parabolic move, volatility is inevitable: the price tends to experience short-term downtrends before new all-time-highs (ATH). Traders with short-term strategies should beware of such price drops and practice risk management: avoid large trading sums, apply stop-loss positions, and diversify their portfolio.


$4,000: Between Fantasy and Forecast

A convergence of macroeconomic, structural, and technical factors is pushing gold into uncharted territory. With macroeconomic uncertainty, rate cut expectations, geopolitical tensions, and central bank demand all aligned in support, the $4,000 level is no longer just a theoretical ceiling — it is a plausible next target. Still, the path is unlikely to be smooth. Corrections, sentiment shifts, and external shocks may temper the pace of the rally. However, for long-term holders, the thesis remains compelling.

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Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation, or an offer to engage in any investment activity. It does not take into account your investment objectives, financial situation, or individual needs. Any action you take based on this content is at your sole discretion and risk. Octa and its affiliates accept no liability for any losses or consequences resulting from reliance on this material.
Trading involves risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Use your expertise wisely and evaluate all associated risks before making an investment decision. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.
Availability of products and services may vary by jurisdiction. Please ensure compliance with your local laws before accessing them.

Hashtag: #Octa

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Octa

is an international CFD broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services used by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 52 million trading accounts. To help its clients reach their investment goals, Octa offers free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools.

The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities.

In Southeast Asia, Octa received the ‘Best Trading Platform Malaysia 2024’ and the ‘Most Reliable Broker Asia 2023’ awards from Brands and Business Magazine and International Global Forex Awards, respectively.

Oryon.net Launches Oryon Academy: Empowering Microsoft 365 Business Users

Why Owning Microsoft 365 Isn’t Enough Anymore — Oryon Academy Teaches Businesses to Master It


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2025 – Oryon.net, the largest Singapore web hosting provider and a leading Microsoft Solutions Partner, is proud to announce the launch of Oryon Academy — a dedicated learning platform designed to help Microsoft 365 Business customers unlock the full potential of their digital tools.​

With over 25 years of experience supporting SMEs, government agencies, and enterprises, Oryon.net has long been recognized for its outstanding 24/7 support, seamless onboarding, and competitive pricing. The introduction of Oryon Academy marks a significant step forward in empowering clients to maximize their Microsoft 365 investment through structured, hands-on training.

“Our mission has always been to simplify technology for businesses,” said Ryan Chua, Managing Director at Oryon.net. “With Oryon Academy, we’re taking that commitment further — equipping our clients with the knowledge and confidence to leverage Microsoft 365 and Office 365 ‘s capabilities fully.”​

Oryon Academy complements Oryon.net ‘s comprehensive Microsoft 365 offerings, which include free email migration, remote desktop assistance, and a price-match guarantee. As a Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) Cyber Essentials Certified provider, Oryon.net ensures that clients receive secure, reliable, and cost-effective solutions.​
Hashtag: #oryonnetworks #microsoft365



The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Oryon Networks Pte Ltd

At Oryon.net, we specialize in delivering top-tier and solutions to businesses of all sizes. As a trusted Microsoft Solutions Partner in Singapore, we offer a comprehensive range of and subscription plans tailored to your unique business needs. Our portfolio includes , , and — ensuring every customer has the right tools for growth, collaboration, and productivity.

We understand that choosing the right Microsoft 365 plan can be overwhelming. That’s why Oryon.net is committed to helping businesses navigate options easily. Our competitive packages are designed to deliver maximum value without compromising on quality.

In addition to core services, we provide expert guidance on essential applications like — helping businesses seamlessly manage communication and scheduling — and the full suite of tools that power everyday operations.

With over 25 years of experience serving SMEs, enterprises, and government agencies, Oryon.net has earned a reputation for reliable support, seamless onboarding, and a customer-first approach. Whether you’re upgrading your existing 365 setup or starting fresh, trust Oryon.net to simplify and enhance your Microsoft 365 journey.

Vietnamese Student Exemplifies Growing Success of International Community at CUHK


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2025 – The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) continues to attract top talent from Vietnam, as demonstrated by Ryan Le Minh Khue, a Year 3 student in the Integrated Bachelor of Business Administration (IBBAC) Programme. Coming from the prestigious Nguyen Hue High School for the Gifted in Hanoi, Ryan represents a growing trend of Vietnamese students choosing Hong Kong for their tertiary education. His decision to study at CUHK was influenced by the university’s strong academic reputation and the generous scholarship opportunities offered by the government, university, and departments.

Ryan addresses an audience of Vietnamese high school students and parents at the CUHK Admission Caravan in Hanoi, sharing insights about academic life and opportunities at The Chinese University of Hong Kong.
Ryan addresses an audience of Vietnamese high school students and parents at the CUHK Admission Caravan in Hanoi, sharing insights about academic life and opportunities at The Chinese University of Hong Kong.

Academic Excellence and Flexibility

“When I was exploring my options, CUHK’s IBBAC programme stood out because of its flexible structure with nine concentrations,” says Ryan. “This allowed me to explore different business fields before specialising, which was exactly what I needed.” The programme’s comprehensive curriculum has enabled Ryan to discover his interests while building a strong foundation in business studies. The well-designed curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical applications, preparing students for real-world challenges in the business sector.

Leadership and Professional Development

Beyond academics, Ryan has embraced campus life through various leadership roles. As a Student Ambassador, he actively promotes CUHK to prospective Vietnamese students and shares his experiences with the growing Vietnamese community. His involvement as Master of Ceremonies at Vietnam Consulate General events has enhanced his public speaking skills and cultural engagement. Through CUHK’s corporate connections, Ryan has secured valuable internships at KPMG Vietnam and Guotai Junan Securities Corporation, gaining first-hand experience in the finance industry and building a strong professional network.

Ryan shares his international student experience during the inaugural International Counsellor Fly-In Programme 2024, a joint initiative by CUHK and HKBU.
Ryan shares his international student experience during the inaugural International Counsellor Fly-In Programme 2024, a joint initiative by CUHK and HKBU.

Growing Vietnamese Community

The number of Vietnamese students at CUHK has grown significantly, from just two students from Ryan’s high school to approximately twenty today. “CUHK offers premium education quality in a supportive environment,” Ryan explains. “The well-designed curriculum, combined with Hong Kong’s position as a global financial hub and its proximity to Vietnam, makes it an increasingly attractive choice for Vietnamese students.” The university’s green campus environment and strong support system have helped international students adapt seamlessly to life in Hong Kong.

Future Aspirations

Ryan plans to pursue a master’s degree in Finance at CUHK after graduation, building upon the strong foundation he has established. His journey highlights CUHK’s commitment to nurturing international talent and preparing students for successful global careers through academic excellence and practical industry exposure. As an emerging leader in his field, Ryan’s success story serves as an inspiration for future Vietnamese students considering CUHK as their destination for higher education.

Hashtag: #CUHK

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About CUHK

Founded in 1963, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) stands as a leading comprehensive research university, consistently ranked among Asia’s top educational institutions.

WePlay Launches Exclusive Livestream Spectacle with Top Philippine Artist Alex Gonzaga

MANILA, Philippines, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ –Global leading social entertainment platform WePlay announced today an exclusive partnership with Philippine national-level multi-talented star Alex Gonzaga. The two parties will launch a joint livestream event on WePlay’s platform on April 30. Leveraging Alex Gonzaga’s massive influence across Southeast Asia and her cross-platform fanbase of over 57 million, this collaboration aims to deliver immersive interactive entertainment experiences to users while further amplifying WePlay’s brand presence in the Asian markets.

celebrity poster
celebrity poster

Top-Tier Collaboration: Boundary-Breaking Influence Elevates Entertainment
As a household-name in the Philippines, Alex Gonzaga—actor, host, singer, and social content creator—has captivated global fans with her humorous charm and high-quality content. Her social media dominance is staggering: over 14.5 million YouTube subscribers, 12.76 million Instagram followers, 13.52 million Facebook followers, 10.1 million TikTok followers, and 6.7 million followers on X, solidifying her status as Southeast Asia’s undisputed “Queen of Engagement.” This partnership synergizes Alex’s creative DNA with WePlay’s interactive features to pioneer new fan engagement frontiers.

Event Highlights: Diverse Content Ignites Anticipation
On April 30 at 8 PM PHT, Alex Gonzaga will host a themed livestream in WePlay’s voice room, featuring fan Q&As, behind-the-scenes stories, talent showcases and interactive games. Users can engage with Alex in real time via WePlay’s signature features like bullet comments, voice chat, and virtual gifts. Participants also may win autographed merchandise and exclusive perks.

Strategic Expansion: WePlay Accelerates Southeast Asia Push
A WePlay spokesperson stated: “Alex Gonzaga’s participation is a pivotal step in our ‘Asia-Pacific Star Strategy.’ She is not just a traffic powerhouse but  also renowned for her infectious creativity. Her energy aligns perfectly with WePlay’s vision to ‘Bring people together through games, lead the trend of global online social entertainment.’ “

About WePlay
Developed by Singapore-based Wejoy, WePlay has emerged as a next-generation global social entertainment hub integrating gaming and interactive features. Committed to “Bring joy and friends to young people around the world,” WePlay sets industry-leading standards in character design, art style, and interactive experiences, attracting a loyal user base. Moving forward, WePlay plans to partner with more top-tier Asia-Pacific artists to build a sustainable celebrity livestream ecosystem, redefining global social entertainment through a “games as medium, socializing as core, stars as bridge” model.

CoCo Bubble Tea Announces New Openings in Southeast Asia

Leading boba brand to open stores in Kuala Lumpur and Phnom Penh, as it focuses on further diversifying beverages tailored to local tastes

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia and PHNOM PENH, Cambodia, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Leading tapioca tea brand CoCo Bubble Tea is announcing new store openings in Malaysia and Cambodia later this spring. Along with the new locations, CoCo will seek to further customize and cater to varied local tastes to meet growing demand for diversified refreshments.

Interior of Phnom Penh CoCo Bubble Tea Store
Interior of Phnom Penh CoCo Bubble Tea Store

To explore opening a pearl milk tea shop with CoCo Bubble Tea, please visit: https://bit.ly/3OFKWWC

In May, CoCo will open the first store in a multi-store franchise in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with the remaining locations opening later in 2025. These stores will feature beverages made with raw materials certified as Halal, emphasizing the brand’s dedication to making beverages for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, CoCo held the soft opening for its first-ever store in Cambodia, located in Phnom Penh, on April 13. This marks a significant step in bringing its beloved bubble tea to even more communities across Southeast Asia.

“Our franchise network from the dynamic Southeast Asia region does an excellent job innovating and harnessing the flourishing bubble tea market here,” noted Kody Wong, Deputy General Manager of Business Development at CoCo Bubble Tea. “We are immensely grateful to have such strong franchise partners. With these latest openings, we are doubling down on our efforts to engage diverse consumers across a region that is growing rapidly.”

Striving for broader local appeal

As demand for “new tea” drinks grows in Southeast Asia, CoCo is redefining the bubble tea experience in the region. Once considered a premium refreshment option, bubble tea is now evolving to suit the dynamic tastes of a broader range of Southeast Asian consumers. The brand’s focus on using local flavors and offering customizable beverage options is helping its drinks resonate more with middle-class consumers, who have increasingly more purchasing power.

A history of success in Southeast Asia

Since establishing a presence here in 2012, Southeast Asia has brought CoCo Bubble Tea some outstanding success stories. Notably, the Philippines has over 120 CoCo stores nationwide, and the brand has consistent recognition here for beverages that resonate with consumers, a strong brand image, and outstanding customer service. CoCo’s highest average store sales is in the Philippines, and it has been the most successful among locals compared with tourists — as 99% of its customers are Filipinos. This demonstrates the company’s proven ability to connect deeply with local tastes.

Why partner with CoCo

Operating with a franchise business model, CoCo Bubble Tea is deeply invested in the entrepreneurs it partners with to open shops. With over 5000 stores worldwide, CoCo combines its high brand recognition with comprehensive support across supply chain, training programs, and other areas to ensure the long-term success of its franchise partners.

Looking ahead

As CoCo continues its expansion, the brand remains committed to introducing its customized and culturally inspired tea creations to more countries across Southeast Asia — and the world. With the increasing popularity of bubble tea in the region, the brand is poised to further strengthen its foothold and delight consumers with unique and refreshing beverage options.

About CoCo Bubble Tea

CoCo Bubble Tea aims to create a diverse and sustainable community for its consumers by providing visually refreshing products. We continue to be one of the fastest-growing companies and are looking for enterprising partners to join the CoCo Bubble Tea franchise networks. Check CoCo Bubble Tea’s official website and start your application now.

For more information, please visit https://www.coco-tea.com/.

CoCo Bubble Tea Store in Phnom Penh
CoCo Bubble Tea Store in Phnom Penh

CoCo Bubble Tea Store beside Royal Palace
CoCo Bubble Tea Store beside Royal Palace

AsiaPay and My Menu Announce Partnership to Elevate Digital Dining Experience for Hotels and Restaurants

HONG KONG, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Leading digital payment solution provider AsiaPay and cutting-edge digital menu platform My Menu are thrilled to announce a strategic partnership aimed at transforming the way hotels and restaurants handle payments and guest interactions.

This collaboration combines AsiaPay’s secure and seamless payment processing with My Menu’s innovative digital ordering solution, offering hospitality businesses in Asia a more efficient and engaging way to serve their guests.

As the hospitality industry continues to embrace digital transformation, this partnership brings a fully integrated solution that allows restaurants and hotels to streamline operations, enhance guest convenience, and drive more revenue. With My Menu’s interactive digital menus, guests can browse menus, place orders, and now, thanks to AsiaPay, make fast and secure payments directly from their mobile devices.

“Our mission has always been to provide businesses with innovative integrated and secure digital payment solution,” said Joseph Chan CEO at AsiaPay. “Partnering with My Menu allows us to extend this capability to the hospitality industry that readily enhances both operational efficiency and guest satisfaction.”

With this integration, hotels and restaurants benefit from:

  • Frictionless guest experience – Guests can seamlessly browse, order, and pay in one smooth digital journey.
  • Secure and reliable transaction – trusted payment solution ensure transactions are fast and secure.
  • Increased revenue potential – Digital menus with smart upselling features and seamless payments encourage higher spending.
  • Operational efficiency – Improve service speed by automating order-taking and payment processing.

“This partnership is a game-changer for hotels and restaurants catering to the growing Asian traveller,” said Abhishek Bose at My Menu. “With AsiaPay’s expertise in digital payments, we are able to offer guests the freedom to use their local digital wallets such as AliPay, GCash, LinePay, GrabPay and numerous other local wallets ensuring your guests experience seamless frictionless online payments, just like what they are used to at home.”

The partnership between AsiaPay and My Menu is now live and available for hospitality businesses looking to modernize their digital ordering and payment experience. For more information, visit asiapay.com and mydigimenu.com.

About AsiaPay

Founded in 2000, AsiaPay, a premier digital payment service and technology solution provider, strives to bring advanced, secure, integrated, and cost-effective electronic payment processing solutions and services to banks, corporations, and e-Businesses in the worldwide market, covering an array of international credit card, debit card, prepaid card, net banking, eWallet, and QR code payment, as well as cash collection.

Headquartered in Hong Kong, AsiaPay also offers its professional ePayment solution consultancy and quality local service support in its 17 offices across the Asia Pacific region including Australia, Thailand, Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Mainland China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Indonesia, Cambodia and India.

For more information, please visit www.asiapay.com.

About My Menu

Since its launch in 2018, My Menu has established itself as the world’s most advanced digital menu platform. My Menu is trusted by the best brands in the industry; currently running in 4200+ restaurants and 500+ hotels across 70 countries. My Menu has evolved from a digital menu solution to a comprehensive platform that boosts sales, increases efficiency while reducing costs and enhancing the guests’ experience. It is a simple yet powerful tool to help streamline operations and support sustainability in the hospitality industry. Its key features include: menu customization, online ordering, dish pairing recommendations, promotions, loyalty programs, CRM capabilities, multiple language options, nutrition and carbon emissions information, digital stamp cards, digital gift cards, table reservations, gamification and more.

For more information, please visit www.mydigimenu.com.

2025 Australian Trades Small Business Champion Awards Officially Open

SYDNEY, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CALLING ALL TRADIES – Entries are now open for the 2025 Australian Trades Small Business Champion Awards.

PNP Constructions - Trade Champion winners for Bathroom & Kitchen Renovation
PNP Constructions – Trade Champion winners for Bathroom & Kitchen Renovation

If you’re a small business owner in any trade from builders to carpenters, concreters to cleaners, electricians to painters, plumbers to landscapers, bakers to hairdressers – this is for you.

The 2025 Australian Trades Small Business Champion Awards are officially open.

These national awards are made just for tradies. They shine a light on the hard-working, skilled people who keep Australia running. If you run a trade business and take pride in your work, it’s time to get recognised.

Entry is free and available online until 30 June 2025.

Whether you’re a one-person team or run a crew of ten, your story matters. You don’t need a fancy office or a big social following – just a strong work ethic, good values and a business you’re proud of.

With 39 categories to choose from, there’s a place for every kind of Champion, along with five awards for the people who excel in their business and industry including Trade Leader, Champion Tradie, Small Business Champion Entrepreneurs (Over 30 and under 30) and Apprentice Champion.

Winners will be announced at a National Gala Presentation Evening held at the Hyatt Regency Sydney on Friday 29 August 2025. A night to remember – with dinner, drinks, entertainment and Australia’s best tradespeople all in one room.

You work hard. Let’s celebrate it.

The Awards are proudly presented by Precedent Productions in partnership with Lifestyle Tradie, NOVA Employment, BOA, VJB Group, Xcllusive Business Sales, Castaway Forecasting and Big Clean.

For information and to submit an entry form, please visit:
https://www.championawards.com.au/trades

Singapore SMEs Hit by Record 8.47% Borrowing Costs and Shrinking Loan Access in 2024: Linkflow Capital Survey

New data shows sharp contraction in loan sizes, rising business cessations, and shifting lender dynamics as SMEs struggle with tighter financing conditions.


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2025 – Singapore’s SMEs battled tighter financing conditions in 2024, with average borrowing costs rising to 8.47% per annum — the highest in recent years, even as loan sizes shrank and access to larger financing amounts dried up, according to Linkflow Capital’s latest SME Financing Accessibility Survey.

Drawing on data from over 2,216 unique users on its SME loan comparison platform, Linkflow Capital’s research reveals a stark financing environment for SMEs:

The survey also captured shifts among lenders. While local banks maintained the largest share (59%) of loan origination within Linkflow Capital’s platform, foreign banks have significantly increased their share to 26% (up from 19%). Digital banks saw their loan share decrease more than half to 8% of loan originations (down from 17% in 2023).

Beyond higher costs, SMEs encountered tighter credit access, particularly for substantial funding needs. Linkflow Capital’s data showed a sharp decline in approvals for loans above S$300,000. These larger brackets constituted only 3% of approved loans in 2024, down from 10% in 2023.

Notably, approvals for loans exceeding S$500,000 ceased entirely in the surveyed data for 2024.

“SMEs were caught in a difficult bind in 2024 – needing capital to navigate rising operational costs but facing the highest borrowing rates we’ve seen in years and finding it much harder to secure larger loan amounts required for expansion,” said Benjamin Teo, spokesperson for Linkflow Capital. “This reflects increased lender caution driven by higher SME debt servicing ratios and the unwinding of earlier government support schemes.”

Outlook: Early signs of stabilization, but risks remain
Looking ahead, early signs of rate relief are emerging. The 3-month SORA benchmark has fallen from 3.03% in January to 2.55% by April 2025. However, business lending rates are expected to adjust slowly and partially, with any reductions possibly materializing only from Q3 2025 onwards.

Policy support remains critical
The permanent raising of the SME Working Capital Loan cap to $500,000, announced in Budget 2024, provides a key buffer. Nevertheless, cashflow pressures are intensifying:

Teo concludes
:
“Given Singapore’s heavy trade exposure, with trade volumes three times GDP, SMEs remain vulnerable to external shocks like the US-China trade war. Pre-emptive financing planning and maintaining liquidity buffers will be crucial to navigating the uncertain quarters ahead.”

The full survey detailed findings and charts are available at: https://smeloan.sg/blog/2024-sme-finance-accessibility-survey/

Hashtag: #Linkflow


The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Linkflow Capital

Founded in 2012, Linkflow Capital is a leading SME loan consultancy in Singapore. Through its loan comparison portal and advisory services, Linkflow Capital assists SMEs in navigating the financing landscape and securing funding solutions from an extensive network of banks and financial institutions.