Our expert insights

ASEAN Opportunities: Where should Singapore firms invest and why?

22 July 2020

While the overall business sentiment may be muted amidst the global economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the ASEAN economy continues to see potential growth. The continuously tense US-China trade relations have led some US firms to shift their attention from China to other parts of Asia, largely benefiting the Southeast Asian market.

What Foreign Retailers Should Know about China’s Regulations

16 July 2020

Foreign retailers must adhere to strict government requirements and employment regulations (in particular) to operate in China. Compliance with these requirements and regulations can be quite complicated especially if you have multiple stores, which will inevitably involve staff rotation, as well as a variety of job functions for different staff members.

Strengthen Data Protection from Cyber Theft

8 July 2020

While technological innovations make business processes and the delivery of goods and services much quicker and more efficient, they also come with serious considerations on privacy and security issues.

Using Sell-side Due Diligence to Maximise Deal Value

1 July 2020

As the vendor of a business in an M&A transaction, the goal is two-fold: Secure a successful transaction and Close at the highest price possible.

Challenges NPOs Face and the Role of Professional Services in the Ecosystem

25 June 2020

Singapore’s NPO sector will continue to face challenges, but the integration of professional services firms into the NPO ecosystem will allow them to tap into expertise and best practices of Singapore’s advanced private sector.

Managing Mergers & Acquisitions

22 June 2020

Enhancing Value through Due Diligence

11 June 2020

When making an acquisition, it is important to acquire the right business, with the right management, at the right price.

Singapore’s Digital Payments Ecosystem in a Post COVID-19 World

9 June 2020

As we come out of the lockdown, how will the payments sector adapt in South East Asia and globally? Co-organised by Eversheds Sutherland, Eversheds Harry Elias and RSM on 27 May 2020, the webinar explored the impact that COVID-19 has had on the payments sector globally and which of these trends are likely to continue post lockdown.

Post-COVID-19 Recovery – Re-inventing your Business Model

8 June 2020

As countries begin to lift lockdown restrictions, businesses have to be ready to embrace the new normal. Gone are the days where face-to-face interaction was the desired practice to promote quality services as companies start to go digital due to the pandemic. Team cohesion and staff-centric management style are also new solutions to build a resilient work team.

Taking Action to Transform Your Business & Your Anxiety in COVID-19*

5 June 2020

Lock Chee Wee, Partner of RSM, during his webinar held on 22 May 2020, emphasised on the importance of performing business health checks, understanding the position businesses are in, and exploring financial relief options to survive this period. We were honored to have the 1st Vice President of SAPE, Professor Rhys Johnson, gave the opening address.

Valuation in Abnormally Uncertain Times

29 May 2020

COVID-19 has caused a significant decline in market value, valuation multiples and increased the required returns for Singapore ListCos. Based on our analysis of the COVID-19 impact on valuations and increase in required returns for Singapore ListCos, we provide guidance in this publication on valuations in times of abnormal uncertainty.

Minimise Risks in Acquisition

26 May 2020

Mergers and acquisitions in the current climate can be exciting but daunting at the same time. It is important that businesses assess the risks and rewards of making an acquisition at this juncture.

Start your online retail business in China

26 May 2020

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many brick-and-mortar retailers and restaurants were placed under lockdown, as local governments enforce quarantine measures and restrict outdoor trips. As consumers fear being infected, they are also turning to online channels to get their necessities. It is predictable that the longer the crisis, the greater the likelihood of consumers gravitating towards online purchasing. From brand protection, regulation and compliance advisory to e-commerce solutions, we help foreign investors start their online retail business easily and quickly.

Build Strong Resilience in the Real Estate and Construction Sector Amidst the Challenging Outlook

20 May 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented demage to the real estate and construction industry. Find out how we can build resilience and survive this pandemic with insights from prominent real estate players.

The Green Impact on Logistics and Transportation

19 May 2020

Whilst the environmental impact of COVID-19 has yet to fully pan out, the tendency towards implementing green initiatives has grown in earnest over the last few years, with an increasing number of businesses across multiple industries getting in on the trend. This is particularly evident in the logistics and transportation industry, in a bid to adopt more environmental-friendly practices. Land, air and sea transportations have also seen a rise in the use of compressed natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas (“LPG”) instead of conventional petroleum.

You Can’t Predict the Next Crisis but You can be Prepared for It!

28 April 2020

How ready is your charity?

Solidarity Budget - Continuing Support Measures (22 April 2020)

23 April 2020

On 21 April 2020, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce announced that it would extend the circuit breaker period until 1 Jun 2020, and put in place enhanced circuit breaker measures minimally for a two-week period from 21 April 2020 until 4 May 2020.

COVID-19 Singapore Banks' Assistance

22 April 2020

To navigate the financial crisis triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, we advise businesses and individuals to engage their banks early and proactively. For a start, we set out a summary of the key support measures provided by three local business banks for your reference

A Shift in Mindset – The Coronavirus Effect on Family Legacy & Succession

18 April 2020

On 11 March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic. To date, the total confirmed cases and total deaths globally sits at 2,158,033 and 144,221 respectively.

RSM Business Resilience - COVID-19 Resource Kit

17 April 2020

In view of the intensifying impact the COVID-19 has on the global economy, we have developed a “RSM Business Resilience COVID-19 Resource Kit” to help you navigate through the rough economic terrain. This complimentary kit is available for downloading.

Tripartite Advisory on Managing Excess Manpower and Responsible Retrenchment

17 April 2020

In view of the highly volatile global economy, the tripartite partners–the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and the Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF)–urge companies to be prudent in managing excess manpower and exercise responsible retrenchment when adjusting to changes in their operating environment.

Cushioning the impact of COVID-19 on the logistics and transportation industry

15 April 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has thrown the world into a state of panic and uncertainty, affecting individuals and businesses to varying degrees. The logistics and transportation industry may have experienced exponential growth in global trade in previous decades, but COVID-19 has proven just how vulnerable global supply chains can be. In light of the pandemic, how can companies in the logistics and transportation industry cushion the blow and better prepare for the future?

COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) Act 2020

14 April 2020

It is expected that many businesses in Singapore will face difficulty paying rent during this period. On 7 April 2020, the Singapore Parliament passed the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) Act, which seeks to offer temporary relief to businesses and individuals who are unable to perform their contractual obligations due on or after 1 February 2020 because of COVID-19.

COVID-19 – The Unexpected Driver of Digital Transformation

9 April 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented impact on businesses and nations around the world. In order to minimise human interactions and reduce further spread of the virus, many countries have shut their borders, locked down, and imposed closure of work-places for non-essential services.

Impact of COVID-19 on Singapore’s healthcare industry

8 April 2020

The COVID-19, a disease that was first identified in Wuhan, China, has now become a pandemic. Singapore, densely populated and with a high number of travellers, is one of the first few countries to have confirmed cases of the COVID-19.

Solidarity Budget (video)

7 April 2020

On 6 April 2020, the Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat announced the Solidarity Budget to provide further support for businesses and people to tide over this difficult period. The cost for this additional support will be $5.1 billion. Altogether the Government’s support for COVID 19 will be $59.9 billion or about 12% of GDP.

Business Resilience Advisory Programme

7 April 2020

It is a trying period for many of us, especially for businesses as COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt the global economy. Hear from Tay Woon Teck, Advisory Partner, where he shares how businesses can assess their business viability and take immediate actions to strengthen business resilience.

2019 Annual Information Technology Industry Spotlight

2 April 2020

“In 2020, we see more and more investors performing cyber due diligence to incorporate potential risk exposure into the overall deal valuation.” - Nishi Shah, Director, Cybersecurity Due Diligence, RSM

COVID-19 Government Support Packages

2 April 2020

These 4 short videos by Yvonne Tang, Senior Manager of Advisory Division, provide details on four key pillars: Immediate Cash Support

Technology Risks: How to Protect Your Business

31 March 2020

Over the past decade, the wave of digital transformation has swept across many organisations as they embark on adopting advanced technologies to streamline their business processes for productivity.

Budget 2020 — Impact on Real Estate and Construction Sector

23 March 2020

For PDF version please click here.

Understanding the US REITs

5 March 2020

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) can provide numerous benefits to a variety of investors looking to invest in real estate, but fund managers must be conscientious of the rules that come with using a REIT.

How Technology Firms can Benefit from Budget 2020

3 March 2020

With the current COVID-19 outbreak and its impact on businesses, Budget 2020 supports companies, workers and households with an immediate release of a $5.6 billion package to help them tide over this difficult time.

Budget 2020 Highlights

26 February 2020

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) ‒ Government Support Packages

21 February 2020

The Stabilisation and Support Package was introduced in Budget 2020 to provide assurance and support to workers and enterprises in this time of economic uncertainty.

Payment Services Act

20 February 2020

E-Payment solutions is a key component of Singapore’s Smart Financial Centre vision where FinTech is an integral part of our lives. The Payment Services Act aims to drive the adoption of E-Payment solutions and enhance consumer safeguards.

SGX Listing Rules amendments effective from 7 February 2020

24 January 2020

Changes to the Quarterly Reporting Framework & Continuous Disclosure Regime.

The search for technology talents

17 January 2020

Many organisations are starting to leverage technology to digitally transform their business processes for enhanced operational efficiency. The surge in data and analytical capabilities have also encouraged businesses to make informed decisions through data analysis rather than intuition.

Retailers raise the bar with trending innovations

16 January 2020

With the evolution of the retail industry—from brick-and-mortar operations to digitising of work processes—let us take a look at what some of the current trends are and how retailers have improved their operations with new innovations.

Automation's impact on margin and efficiency in professional services

23 December 2019

Organisations functioning in the professional services and technology space such as consulting firms, software companies, architectural and engineering businesses, staffing agencies, public relations firms, advertising and marketing agencies, and more have unique needs to achieve their profitability goals.

The LNG tsunami: Trends and challenges for US middle market companies

2 December 2019

The last decade has seen enormous developments in the trade of liquefied natural gas. In 2018, the global LNG market more than tripled from the volumes seen in 2000 and grew at an annual rate of 8.3% to 313.8 million metric tons per year. Last year, there were 42 countries importing LNG compared to only 18 countries in 2008.1

Energy trends to watch in 2019

2 December 2019

Innovative technology is changing the way businesses are managed, and the energy sector, while not leading the way, is nevertheless seeing an increase in the use of artificial intelligence, telematics and big data to lower costs, streamline operations and enhance safety.

When do NPOs need to register for GST?

27 November 2019

Goods and Services Tax ("GST") is a transaction-based tax that applies to goods and services supplied by a taxable person in Singapore. If a not-for-profit organisation’s (Public Character) receipts that are taxable for GST perspectives exceed or are expected to exceed S$1 million within a 12-month period, you will have to consider GST registration.

Q3 2019 Information Technology Industry Spotlight

22 November 2019

"Speed is the name of the game for both buyers and sellers in the current climate. Given geopolitical shakiness as well as broader concerns around any potential slowdown, buyers are prioritizing companies with metrics that exhibit resilience to any major impacts." David Van Wert, Partner, Transaction Advisory Services, RSM

Consolidation of private clinics in the healthcare industry

29 October 2019

Consolidation is observed in several industries ranging from financial institutions to retailers, and has been gaining a similar momentum in the healthcare industry. While consolidation in the healthcare industry may not be a new phenomenon, we continue to observe standalone clinics merging and acquiring to form a bigger group.

Building digitally-savvy SMEs

25 October 2019

Becoming digitally savvy is not a difficult process, and the benefits are aplenty. The Singapore government has paved the path to digitisation for the nation through the smart nation initiative, and we have already reached the stage whereby robots are deployed to perform mundane tasks such as bank reconciliation and three-way matching.

Practical accounting challenges technology start-ups face

22 October 2019

Technology firms are among the fastest growing companies in Singapore in recent years. This, in part, is due to the pace of technological innovations and disruptions across nearly every industry.

Do charities need both audit and finance committees?

9 September 2019

Boards of all charities are required to have an Audit Committee and a Finance Committee under the 2017 Singapore Code of Governance for Charities & Institutions of a Public Character. However, charities differ in their views on whether both are necessary.

Is your business truly compliant with personal data protection regulations?

5 September 2019

Beauty retailer Sephora notified the Personal Data Protection Commission of a data breach that led to the exposure of some customers’ personal information to unauthorised third parties, according to media reports in July. Is your business truly compliant with personal data protection regulations?

How intelligent process automation enhances the finance function

21 August 2019

While Robotic Process Automation has been widely adopted by many businesses and delivered significant benefits, its evolved cousin, Intelligent Process Automation, has the potential to enhance business outcomes further.

Q2 2019 Information Technology Industry Spotlight

8 August 2019

After a nearly record-breaking year in deal value, the mergers and acquisitions cycle in information technology has shown signs of slowing down.

Are you fully compliant with transfer pricing documentation requirements?

2 August 2019

Taxpayers that meet the required conditions are reminded to prepare mandatory transfer pricing documentation for their financial year ended 2018, and would be liable to a fine not exceeding S$10,000 for each case of non-compliance.

Go regional — a quick guide to getting started

3 July 2019

Benefit from the ideas and insights of our regional experts

Four key applications of natural language processing for audit transformation

27 June 2019

While we have yet to achieve truly human-like artificial intelligence, we are already seeing important breakthroughs in natural language processing. How can the audit profession leverage these for its own transformation?

Integrated CRM-ERP solution improves productivity and decision-making

10 June 2019

A protection and indemnity insurance solution provider faced numerous internal control issues arising from its manual, inefficient process of drafting policy quotations and contracts on Word documents. Seeking a solution that would integrate management of policies, invoices and claims, the company turned to RSM’s IT services team for assistance.

The aftermath of Storm GDPR in Asia-Pacific

28 May 2019

Whilst the GDPR has been well communicated by the advisory profession in the Asia-Pacific region, there has been only a small number of organisations that one could consider to be GDPR-ready.

Benefits and considerations of cloud accounting

15 May 2019

Disruptive technologies have changed the game for various industries and accounting is no exception. As businesses take accounting to the cloud, a fresh approach is required for the age-old practice of bookkeeping.

Q1 2019 Information Technology Industry Spotlight

7 May 2019

How the mergers and acquisitions cycle has evolved during a remarkable decade for the information technology industry has been an intriguing case study in sustaining of highs.

Timely financial reporting for VWOs — a case study

12 April 2019

A voluntary welfare organisation (VWO) that provides residential care, eldercare and medical services faced a huge challenge in meeting financial reporting requirements.

GST considerations for digitised goods and services

20 March 2019

Global e-commerce has been growing, on average, 20% each year and revenue in the Singapore "digitised goods" (e.g. digital video, digital music, digital games) market amounted to SGD406.3 million in 2015.

Healthcare giant consolidates financial data with ease

20 March 2019

A leading healthcare service provider faced a huge challenge of consolidating voluminous financial data from all its clinics across Singapore every month. Working under pressure to meet financial reporting deadlines, its finance team spent many man-hours manually extracting data from every clinic’s database, tabulating it in Excel format and translating it into consolidated reports. As its existing service provider, RSM’s IT services team was approached by the client to find a solution that would overcome this time-consuming process.

Singapore school boosts administrative and payment collection efficiency

20 March 2019

An independent school in Singapore faced significant challenges in new student enrolment every year. The school administrator had to manually key in all newly enrolled students’ records from the Singapore Ministry of Education (MOE) School Cockpit System into the students’ database. In addition, the school administrator had to manually update the records of students who were promoted to new classes every year. As the majority of students make payments via GIRO for their monthly school fees and miscellaneous fees, these transactions were also manually updated on the school’s merchant bank portal. Much time and effort were spent to ensure that the students’ records were updated in a timely manner before the start of every new academic period and to meet GIRO submission deadlines. Seeking a solution, the school approached RSM’s IT Services team for assistance.

Budget 2019 — What's in for Real Estate and Construction Sector? [Infographic]

11 March 2019

For PDF version please Click here

How businesses can navigate uncertain environments to thrive during challenging times

11 March 2019

“What’s your strategy to internationalise and tap into Asean for growth?” With these words, Dennis Lee, Partner, RSM, got the panel discussion off to a rousing start. Titled “Rethinking Strategies in Uncertain Times”, this seminar held on 25 Feb 2019, was jointly presented by RSM and DBS.

2018 Annual Information Technology Industry Spotlight

26 February 2019

The remarkably robust mergers and acquisitions (M&A) cycle over the past decade owed a significant portion of its resilience to consolidation and disruption within technology, specifically software.

How Budget 2019 can help technology companies thrive

25 February 2019

Building on the themes laid out in the previous years’ Budgets, Finance Minister, Mr Heng Swee Keat, delivered the Singapore Government’s Budget for 2019 on 18 February 2019. Technology continues to be a key theme in strengthening Singapore’s economic competitiveness, increasing Singapore businesses’ productivity and enhancing Singaporeans’ lives.

Phishing awareness: recognising, addressing and avoiding threats

29 January 2019

Phishing is one of the most common and most successful forms of cyberattack: e-mails designed to trick users into providing valuable information (such as login credentials) or running malicious code that compromises their workstation. Unlike other attacks, phishing does not rely on technical vulnerabilities or security misconfigurations to be effective.

RSM - Your Technopreneur Journey Need Not Be Alone

25 January 2019

Committee of Inquiry report highlights cybersecurity implications for businesses

17 January 2019

On 10 January 2019, the Committee of Inquiry (COI) released its report on the cyberattack on SingHealth last year that resulted in the theft of 1.5 million patients' personal particulars. Any of the five key findings of the COI report might be an issue for companies in any industry.

2019 Real Estate Investment Excellence

19 December 2018

Micromarkets, macro-opportunities Download Report

Technology disruption and financial services companies

29 November 2018

Consider opportunity and risk when harnessing new technologies

Q3 2018 Technology Industry Spotlight

12 November 2018

The most-recent volatility within public equities served as a good reminder that technology stocks, in particular, the famed FAANGs — Facebook, Apple, Amazon, Netflix and Google — have alone been responsible for a significant portion of the remarkable gains in markets over the past few years.

Five ways data is changing the way businesses operate

18 October 2018

How business intelligence can help you get the most from your data

Key changes to Singapore Code of Corporate Governance & Related Listing Rules from 1 January 2019

21 September 2018

Six years after the last revision to the Code of Corporate Governance, the Monetary Authority of Singapore released another in August 2018, which aims to do ‘more with less’. ‘Less’ relates to the fact that the new Code is more succinct with 13 instead of 16 Principles.

5 steps for real estate and construction businesses to enhance their cybersecurity

20 September 2018

Introduction

Illegal to collect NRIC numbers and make copies of identity card from 1 September 2019

18 September 2018

Collecting NRIC numbers and making copies of the identity card will be illegal once revisions to the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) take effect from 1 September 2019, according to the Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC).

Eight drivers of an effective enterprise risk management system

17 September 2018

As a risk advisory firm, we are frequently asked by clients to assess the effectiveness of their enterprise risk management (ERM) systems. Without exceptions, such requests are always about benchmarking the adopted framework for risk identification, assessment, mitigation and reporting against the best international frameworks.

Liquidity risk management practices for fund management companies

14 September 2018

On 16 August 2018, MAS issued the Guideline No. SFA04-G08 “Guidelines on Liquidity Risk Management Practices for Fund Management Companies”.

Are you ready for your next move in Singapore’s real estate and construction market?

31 August 2018

The recent cooling measures for Singapore’s real estate and construction market not only affects buyers but developers as well. These measures have the potential to impact firm and project value in the long term if developers do not consider the ramifications in totality.

Timing disruption: The stepping stone strategy

27 August 2018

There are times when everything changes in business – when this happens it is often sudden, surprising and sometimes overwhelming. These moments are the strategic inflection points that can result in a company rocketing to success or being left behind.

Q2 2018 Technology Spotlight

15 August 2018

INSIGHT ARTICLE Big picture

People strategies for success in a rapidly shifting global climate

13 August 2018

One issue stands out for every middle-market business that operates internationally: the struggle to find and retain the most skilled and innovative employees — those who will drive growth and company performance.

Four ways for business leaders to enable their workforce

27 July 2018

While some cry foul and worry about the woes of a ‘useless class,’ as the historian Yuval Noah Harari puts it, others welcome widespread automation because they consider most current human labour mind-numbing.

Wake-up call after SingHealth cyber breach

23 July 2018

The recent major cyberattack on SingHealth’s database that resulted in the theft of some 1.5 million patients’ personal particulars is another wake-up call for organisations to be vigilant for cyber risks. The repercussions may be more serious than you think. SingHealth sent out the following two short messages to victims of the cyberattack:

Q1 2018 Technology Spotlight

14 June 2018

The technology landscape remains dynamic, characterised by interlocking series of technology innovation and adoption cycles.

Financial reporting guide to IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers

12 June 2018

RSM UK's "Financial Reporting Guide to IFRS 15" offers insights on FRS 115, Singapore’s equivalent of the standard that is effective from 1 Jan 2018.

Compliance with China's latest transfer pricing documentation requirements

31 May 2018

Businesses in China should comply with its latest transfer pricing documentation requirements to avoid penalties for non-compliance. Overview Businesses in China should comply with its latest transfer pricing documentation requirements to avoid penalties for non-compliance. Compared with the previous regime, key changes include:

Blockchain: The technology too powerful to ignore

4 May 2018

Truly taking advantage of blockchain not only requires businesses to adapt existing business models, but to reimagine them from scratch.

An insider perspective on blockchain by Zilliqa

23 April 2018

RSM interviewed Zilliqa's CEO and Head of Business Development who shared their insights on the topic of blockchain.

A changing nation: the effects of globalisation on China

19 April 2018

China and globalisation are no strangers. It is essential for any business looking to break into China to combine a global strategy with a market-specific approach.

Higher education: You’re already a data breach target

18 April 2018

Data breaches have hit all kinds of industries, from retail to financial services. For higher education institutions, the threat continues to rise. Article by Daimon Geopfert (Principal), RSM US

Succession planning is key to professional services organizations

18 April 2018

Organizations frequently indicate they should have a succession plan in place but don’t know where to begin. Learn more about how you can develop a plan in place that addresses departing leadership and key employees. Article by Christina Churchill (Principal), RSM US

Key strategies for business leaders in the changing global economy

3 April 2018

Protectionism and populism are on the rise in the global economy. Has globalisation, which has helped to expand the world economy and raise millions out of poverty, had its day?

6 things to consider when beginning your construction projects

29 March 2018

To do well in the construction industry, planning is often as important as execution. Discover 6 important considerations for a comprehensive and detailed plan that covers various aspects of your construction project.

The rise of blockchain - threats and opportunities for businesses

28 March 2018

Powerhouses in private equity: Leveraging innovation, creating value

20 March 2018

Up close and personal with Arsenal Capital's Terry Mullen Arsenal Capital was launched 17 years ago by a 33-year-old and a 27-year-old. Today the firm is a mega-fund success, but its first three deals provided two difficult and painful experiences. In this newest video in our Powerhouses in private equity series, Arsenal’s Terry Mullen talks candidly with RSM's national private equity leader Don Lipari about both deal delights and regrets. Additionally, Terry shares his sense of excitement about investing behind innovative companies in the specialty industrial and healthcare space. DON'T MISS OUR OTHER POWERHOUSE VIDEOS Howard Newman, Pine Brook Tom Lister, Permira Jay Jordan, The Jordan Company Stewart Kohl, The Riverside Company Rodeny Cohen, The Carlyle Group Geoffrey Rehnert, Audax Group

Giving globalisation meaning: re-emerging markets and the road to reglobalisation

19 March 2018

Any globalisation definition should include more than just the ever-expanding technological advances in transport and communications.

CRS registration for Singapore financial institutions

19 March 2018

As you should be aware, Singapore has committed to implement the Common Reporting Standard (“CRS”) and the first exchange of information between participating jurisdictions relating to the calendar year 2017 is to take place by September 2018.

The future of effective risk management in financial services

19 March 2018

Video | 15 March 2018

How Budget 2018 will help businesses leverage technology and innovate

2 March 2018

On 19 February 2018, Mr. Heng Swee Keat, Minister of Finance, delivered the Singapore Government’s Budget for 2018. Building a vibrant and innovative economy was one of the four themes touched upon and we are providing a brief recap since this topic is close to the heart of all businesses.

Budget 2018 Highlights

1 March 2018

Budget 2018 not only addresses Singapore’s immediate needs and concerns but is also a strategic plan to address challenges we will face for the next decade. The key thrust is still in the areas of innovation, rescaling and upscaling. Read more in our Budget 2018 Highlights.

4 deadly cybersecurity risks that threaten businesses

28 February 2018

The cybersecurity landscape has been continuously evolving. All businesses, regardless of their size, need to be prepared in advance or face the unpleasant surprise of a security breach.

Key changes to the Code of Corporate Governance and implications for real estate companies

15 February 2018

Learn more about how the changes to the Code will affect board matters, shareholder engagement, remuneration & nomination and accountability & audit as well as how these will impact listed real estate companies.

Business leaders share new strategies for quality and sustainable growth at RSM’s Welcome 2018 seminar

14 February 2018

Thought leaders from DBS bank, Knight Frank and IPOS joined successful entrepreneurs from Benjamin Barker, Design Studio, Vault Dragon and Tradably to share new strategies that business leaders are relying on for quality and sustainable growth at our Welcome 2018 seminar on 2 February.

Five ways that data analytics can help SMEs in Singapore

1 February 2018

Data, analytics, and insights. As social, mobile and cloud technologies become more prevalent, these words are thrown around a lot, but are these processes valuable only for big businesses or can small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) benefit as well?

Understanding cybersecurity and the operational risks of cryptocurrency

24 January 2018

While the price fluctuation for bitcoin, a type of cryptocrrency, garnered significant public interest in 2017, many fundamental questions remain on this subject. Questions such as: What are cryptocurrencies? Why are they so popular? And what are the key risks and challenges of investing in them right now?

Global value added tax for electronically supplied services

28 December 2017

Know your global obligations to collect and report accurately AUDIOCAST | September 29, 2017

Q3 2017 Information Technology Industry Spotlight

28 December 2017

The information technology (IT) industry is currently creating the most change, and as a result, is staying the most relevant for all types of investors and fueling robust mergers and acquisition (M&A) activity. Consolidation is becoming a key factor in the industry INSIGHT ARTICLE

Sustainability is key to Healthcare 2020’s success

28 November 2017

The Ministry of Health (MOH) unveiled the Healthcare 2020 Masterplan in March 2017 spelling out the strategic objectives of enhancing the accessibility, affordability and quality of healthcare services in the country.

Effective risk management in internationalisation

1 November 2017

Q1 2017 Information Technology Industry Spotlight

6 October 2017

INSIGHT ARTICLE

Q2 2017 Information Technology Industry Spotlight

6 October 2017

INSIGHT ARTICLE

GST pain points for NPOs (Not-for-profits/Charities/Institutions of a Public Character)

3 October 2017

Since NPOs generally receive a combination of direct donations, grants, sponsorships and miscellaneous nominal income from their heavily funded activities, it can be difficult to track and many of them may not be aware that they need to register for GST.

'Uber of banking' sparks radical changes across industries

20 September 2017

Financial technology is forcing a change in many of Singapore’s traditional sectors from financial services to consumer retail and investment. Financial technology, or FinTech, is forcing a change in many of Singapore’s traditional sectors. From financial services to consumer retail and investment, digital disruption is transforming a broad range of businesses. Fundamentally, the principles of financial services — to save, exchange, invest, finance and insure against risk — will remain unchanged. What is certain to change is how users address their needs through such services.

Code of Governance for Charities and Institutions of a Public Character (2017 Refinements)

15 August 2017

The Code of Governance for Charities and IPCs was refined in 2017. All charities are encouraged to take necessary actions to improve their governance.

Four pillars to international business success

18 July 2017

What does it take for business units to operate effectively and succeed in new markets? What do failed business expansions have in common? In a volatile and diverse economy, how should top business executives redefine the relationship between the head office and business units to drive future growth?

Foreign investors to rethink business models in China

18 July 2017

Recent trends in China will drive foreign investors to rethink their business models, Tan Lee Lee, Director of Business Advisory at SBA Stone Forest, said at our China Briefing on 29 September 2017.

Cybersecurity challenges for educational institutions

1 July 2017

UK construction sector - building the future

5 June 2017

After recovering well from the global economic crash, UK construction firms now face new uncertainties. Although the sector has so far shown resilience, economic jitters in the wake of the EU referendum could bring new headwinds that slow work pipelines.

Non-resident landlords in the UK may become subject to corporation tax

5 June 2017

Offshore companies who invest in UK property could be brought into the corporation tax regime as outlined in a recently published consultation paper. This would bring together the ways both UK and offshore companies are taxed on their rental income and certain gains.

GST pain points for the retail industry

5 June 2017

A handy guide to doing business in China

28 April 2017

The guide offers insights to help foreign investors navigate the country's economic, legal and regulatory landscapes.

GST pain points in the logistics industry

25 April 2017

GST-registered logistics businesses (“GRLBs”) that have been managing GST risk on a broad level could face a mismatch in expectations and GST compliance level against that of the GST authorities.

A Handy Guide to Doing Business in China

20 March 2017

Despite China's status as an attractive investment destination, foreign investors often face significant challenges in navigating its highly dynamic economic, legal and regulatory landscapes. The guide offers insights on these key issues and more.

Estate Management - Cost Management Solutions

13 March 2017

Estate Management - Compliance and Regulations

13 March 2017

How data analytics is helping shopping mall operators and tenants

8 March 2017

Retail analytics provides a way for both Singapore mall operators and retailers to track customers' shopping trends and behaviours. By collecting this information, retailers and mall operators can find out shoppers’ browsing patterns, total time spent at the mall and at certain shops as well as analyse traffic flow within the mall.

Asian investments in US real estate amid an uncertain world

1 February 2017

Accounting for good: helping charities do good better (PDF page 47-51)

8 September 2016

Commercial property sector in the UK takes a knock post-Brexit

26 July 2016

Article by Howard Freedman, RSM (United Kingdom). Three reports out last week have highlighted the challenges facing the commercial property sector in the aftermath of the Brexit vote.

Buying a service business: what to consider?

13 July 2016

This article explains the use of the Stone Forest Model for Growing Businesses as part of a comprehensive business assessment to identify potential M&A problems early.

Transport and logistics threats and opportunities following Brexit

8 July 2016

Transport and logistics could be one of the sectors hit hardest by the vote to leave the EU, from both a practical and economic point of view. The impact may be immediate for some businesses.

Reinventing internal audit

4 July 2016

A collaborative thought leadership project between Singapore Accountancy Commission, The Institute of Internal Auditors Singapore and RSM.

DBS Bank and RSM Building & Construction Seminar highlights “silver lining” for industry

27 May 2016

Co-organised by DBS SME Banking and RSM in Singapore, and supported by Building & Construction Authority, IE Singapore and SPRING Singapore, our Building & Construction Seminar on 24 May 2016 attracted participants from the construction and other sectors.

Doing Business in ASEAN Guidebook

16 May 2016

The "Doing Business in ASEAN" Guidebook serves as a useful reference for business owners and investors seeking to learn more about ASEAN and its member states, as well as about existing regional initiatives and those that are still under negotiations.

How should non-profit organisations (NPOs) take the right risks?

26 April 2016

In an increasingly vulnerable economic and social landscape, NPOs are now playing an even greater role in plugging social gaps, addressing social ills and meeting the needs of the under-served customer segments. Because of the trust that is placed on NPOs, their Boards are expected to govern effectively and maintain credibility.

Identifying and minimizing the risk of construction fraud

26 February 2016

Article by John Croy, RSM (United States).

Are investment funds shortchanged by the exemption from consolidation with more efforts and disclosures required by fair value accounting?

2 February 2016

29 January 2016 By Chee Wee Lock, Partner (Funds Practice) and Industry Leader (Professional & Business Services), RSM Singapore - taken from RSM Reporting - Issue 26

Your guide to investing in UK real estate

20 January 2016

Article by Adrian Benosiglio, RSM (United Kingdom). Overseas investors continue to look to the UK as an attractive location to invest. But what are the key tax implications? Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT)

Significant impact for residential property owners in the United Kingdom

20 January 2016

Article by Adrian Benosiglio, RSM (United Kingdom). The Summer Budget released in July 2015 has brought a number of measures, which will impact on the real estate sector in the United Kingdom. Buy to let

Managing the costs of compliance in Singapore

14 January 2016

Singapore’s status as a premier financial hub places it at the crossroads of increasing capital flows between developed economies and re-emergent markets. While fund managers seek to ride this wave of opportunity, it is important to manage the costs of compliance and balance it with regulatory requirements and expectations of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) to protect the reputation of our Little Red Dot as a preferred financial investment destination.

GST input tax claims for mixed real estate developments

30 December 2015

GST-registered real estate developers of a mixed development (e.g. commercial and residential) may face the risk of higher compliance cost because of incorrect GST treatments for such projects. As transactions in the real estate industry are usually of high value, the financial consequences may also be significant.

Chio Lim Stone Forest celebrates 30th Anniversary with Charity Walk-a-Jog cum Carnival

16 October 2015

Over 1,000 participants, including clients, staff and families of all ages, turned up early in the morning on 29 August 2015 for the Chio Lim Stone Forest (CLSF) Charity Walk-a-Jog cum Carnival.

Our services

Our industry

Our country desks

You are here

Our expert insights