Recognition of Konica Minolta’s adaptable, future-ready innovations in office printing technology.

Hashtag: #KonicaMinolta

https://www.konicaminolta.asia/asia-en
https://www.linkedin.com/company/konica-minolta-business-solutions-asia-pte-ltd
https://www.facebook.com/KonicaMinoltaSingapore/
https://www.instagram.com/konica_minolta_sg/

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

About Konica Minolta Business Solutions Asia

Konica Minolta’s journey started 150 years ago, with a vision to see and do things differently. We innovate for the good of society and the world. The same purpose that kept us moving then, keeps us moving now.

Konica Minolta Business Solutions Asia, based in Singapore, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Konica Minolta Inc., Tokyo, Japan. With its expertise in imaging, data processing and data-based decision making, Konica Minolta creates relevant solutions for its customers – small and medium-sized businesses, large enterprises and public sector – and solves issues faced by society.

Konica Minolta’s Igniting Print Possibilities offering helps printers, converters and brand owners maximize workflow automation to increase efficiency. The company delivers consultancy in all communication matters as well as top-of-the-line production, packaging and label printers. Its finishing devices create print products that stand out and create added value. Konica Minolta has established itself as the production printing market leader for more than a decade (InfoSource).

For an increasing number of organisations, success today is more than the narrow definition of financial prosperity – it also includes protecting the environment and having a positive impact on their workforce as well as the societies they are embedded in. With its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Konica Minolta has pledged to consistently pursue its sustainability and social responsibility goals.

The company has been repeatedly recognised for its rich history of social contribution as well as for working towards achieving the SDGs throughout its business and supply chain. Konica Minolta is listed among “2023 Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World” and received a GOLD Level Recognition Medal in the EcoVadis sustainability ratings for 2023.

Worldwide, the company has over 39,000 employees and is operating in over 150 countries.

For more information, please visit https://www.konicaminolta.asia/asia-en.

Current Market Conditions and Silver’s Performance in 2024

Silver prices increased by 18% in 2024, outpacing the more modest increase of gold. The price was driven by inflationary pressures and stronger industrial demand, particularly in renewable energy uses. While gold is a classic safe-haven investment, silver’s dual role as both an investment and industrial metal gives it a unique edge in volatile markets. Yet, risk management is crucial for avoiding unnecessary losses.

There are two major silver market growth drivers:

• Industrial Demand: Silver’s use in renewable energy, particularly solar panels, electronics, and EV manufacturing continues to expand, distinguishing it from gold, which primarily serves investment and jewellery purposes.
• Macroeconomic Trends: While both silver and gold typically hedge against inflation, silver price drops can be more significant compared to gold in times of economic uncertainty. For example, during the COVID-19 crisis, silver experienced a significant negative return of –20.0%, while gold delivered a positive return of 5.1% in the same period.

Silver Price Forecasts for 2025: Can It Surpass Gold?

Silver is expected to outperform gold in the coming years, whereby limited supply will be countered by increasing industrial demand. The price of silver can even reach $40 per ounce sometime in 2025, given the robust demand. This growth potential creates a nice buying opportunity for traders. Nevertheless, market liquidity risks, rising interest rates, and changes in investors’ sentiments, among other things, may affect the market negatively. What’s more, the asset is far more sensitive to economic cycles compared to gold. In case a recession occurs, silver may drop in price more steeply than gold. Traders should also monitor the gold-silver ratio. If it’s too high, investors may simultaneously sell gold and buy silver, assuming the ratio returns to its long-term average.

Those who consider opting for silver instead of gold should closely analyse both assets and compare their investment risks, nature, and potential profits. Here’s a brief overview of their pros and cons.

• Liquidity & Market Depth: While gold remains a more liquid asset, silver’s increasing institutional interest is narrowing this gap, so the difference in liquidity is minor.
• Volatility & Risk: While silver experiences greater price swings than gold, its volatility presents significant profit-making opportunities for active traders who practice strict risk management.
• Portfolio Diversification: Silver serves as both an inflation hedge and a strategic asset tied to industrial demand.

Traders can tap into the potential of both silver and gold using various trading platforms. These days, the choice of a platform is not limited to MT4 and MT5, and other solutions step up their offerings. For example, Octa broker’ proprietary trading ecosystem, OctaTrader, offers CFDs on silver and gold. OctaTrader reports high trade volume for CFDs on gold this year despite the slackened interest towards the metal after Donald Trump’s election win. According to the Octa analysts, the demand for silver on OctaTrader is currently quite high, leading to amplified liquidity and more profit opportunities.

‘Silver’s long-term value is stable because of its underlying supply-demand dynamics. The metal is widely used in electronics, renewable energy, and medicine’, explains Kar Yong Ang. ‘The Silver Institute expects the total silver supply to increase by 3 percent and reach 1.05 ounces, an 11-year high. The demand is projected to remain at 1.20 billion ounces this year. Considering this, the demand is likely to outpace even the increasing supply. Although the demand for jewellery and silverware is to decline, gains are expected in the consumer electronics market and industrial fabrication. As a result, the deficit is likely to take place’, he adds.

Silver’s strong market momentum, industrial applications, especially for renewable energy and solar panels in particular, and potential price appreciation make it an asset to watch in 2025. While volatility remains a factor, strategic investments in silver may yield higher returns compared to gold. Traders who aim to deal with the asset should address it carefully.

Firstly, keep an eye on inflation trends, central bank policies, and industrial demand to conduct fundamental analysis and identify factors of potential price swings. To manage risks, balance your portfolio and do not build an oversized position in any single asset. If your trading budget is limited, especially after you diversify your investments, you can access an increased balance through trading instruments like CFDs. Platforms like Octa broker provide flexible CFD trading options for silver, allowing traders to capitalise on short-term price movements.

Disclaimer: 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.
Hashtag: #Octa

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

Octa

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.

Globally diversified portfolio of crossover bonds aims to deliver attractive yields for investors

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 March 2025 – GROW with Singlife (“GROW”), the integrated investment platform under leading homegrown financial services company Singlife, in partnership with aberdeen Investments (“aberdeen”), today launches a new share class of the abrdn SICAV II – Global Income Bond Fund (the “Fund”). Currently exclusive to GROW on its platform, the A Gross Inc Hedged SGD offers investors a compelling Yield to Worst of 6.5% (USD hedged)[1], comprising appealing monthly payouts with potential capital appreciation.

Finding a sweet spot between investment-grade bonds and high-quality high-yield debt, the Fund invests substantially in global multi-sector bonds rated BBB (the lowest investment-grade rating) and BB (the highest high-yield rating). This dual-market approach appeals to both conservative investors seeking stability and those pursuing higher returns. With a globally diversified portfolio spanning investment-grade, high-yield, government, and emerging markets bonds, the Fund offers attractive yield potential while maintaining moderate credit risk, making it a compelling long-term solution for income-focused investors.

The launch comes at a pivotal time in the market. With inflation easing across most global markets and central banks expected to begin rate-cutting cycles, returns from short-term cash management instruments such as fixed deposits and money market funds have declined, making them less appealing to investors looking for higher yields. In such an environment, fixed income investments are gaining attention for their ability to provide higher yields and more sustainable returns. According to Morningstar, a leading global investment research firm, fixed income funds saw record inflows of USD1 trillion in 2024, trumping all other asset classes.

Tim Wong, Head of Product at GROW with Singlife, said: “As part of our commitment to provide advisers and their clients access to innovative and high-quality investment opportunities, we are proud to partner with aberdeen for the launch of an exclusive share class of the abrdn SICAV II – Global Income Bond Fund. With rising life expectancy and increasing cost of living, many investors are looking for ways to secure reliable income to support their retirement goals. This Fund represents a compelling option for those seeking attractive, stable income solutions with controlled risks.”

As Singapore’s population ages and life expectancy continues to rise, the need for reliable retirement income is becoming increasingly critical. A 65-year-old today requires an estimated $685,000 to fund 20 years of retirement, or approximately $2,856[2] per month, covering basic expenses. With stable and attractive payouts to support long-term financial security, the abrdn SICAV II – Global Income Bond Fund offers a sustainable solution for investors.

Natalie Tan, Head of Wholesale Southeast Asia at aberdeen Investments, said: “We are thrilled to partner with GROW with Singlife to introduce a new share class of the abrdn SICAV II – Global Income Bond Fund to investors. This Fund reflects aberdeen’s commitment to help investors navigate market transitions with innovative solutions that aims to achieve sustainable, long-term returns. Looking at the existing landscape, the current bond yields across nearly all major fixed income sub-asset classes well exceed their 10-year averages, presenting an enticing entry point for fixed income investors. With a globally diversified portfolio of bonds, this Fund will be a valuable addition to any income-focused portfolio, offering the potential for high-yield returns at investment-grade risk levels.”

The Fund has a strong history of delivering consistent income and competitive performance. Over the past decade, it has consistently ranked among the top performers in its category, according to Morningstar. As of December 2024, the Fund is in the top 25% in terms of performance over the last one, five, and seven years within its category. This demonstrates its ability to generate attractive, risk-adjusted returns across different market conditions, making it a reliable choice for income-focused investors.

GROW officially introduced the abrdn SICAV II – Global Income Bond Fund, A Gross Inc Hedged SGD, at a launch event at Marina One, attended by industry leaders and financial advisers. Investors can contact their Financial Adviser Representatives or visit grow.singlife.com to learn more.

Hashtag: #GROWwithSinglife

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

About GROW with Singlife

GROW with Singlife is an integrated investment platform under the Singlife Group, a leading homegrown financial services company. GROW’s platform offers an integrated investment solution that combines intuitive technology with tailored services, and a progressive range of products, alongside insights, tools, and support, to enable advisers to provide more meaningful and impactful advice to their clients. We are committed to supporting our employees, financial advisers, and end clients with care, consideration, and compassion at every step of their financial life journey.

About aberdeen

aberdeen is a global investment company that helps clients and customers plan, save and invest for the future. Our purpose is to enable our clients to be better investors. aberdeen manages and administers £511.4bn of assets for clients (as at 31 December 2024). Our strategy is to deliver client-led growth. We are structured around three businesses – Investments, Adviser and Personal – focused on their changing needs. The capabilities in our investments business are built on the strength of our insight – generated from wide-ranging research, worldwide investment expertise and local market knowledge. Our teams collaborate across regions, asset classes and specialisms, connecting diverse perspectives and working with clients to identify investment opportunities that suit their needs. As at 31 December 2024, our investments business manages £369.7bn on behalf of clients – including insurance companies, sovereign wealth funds, independent wealth managers, pension funds, platforms, banks and family offices.

About Singlife

Singlife is a leading homegrown financial services company that offers consumers a better way to financial freedom. We are headquartered in Singapore with a presence in the Philippines.

Singlife meets diverse customer needs by offering a comprehensive suite of insurance products, including life and health, general insurance and investments, employee benefits and financial advisory solutions.

We achieve this through a differentiated, open-architecture distribution model and Singapore’s largest network of financial advisers.

A pioneer in the digital insurtech space, we offer digital solutions accessible through the Singlife App and GROW with Singlife, an investment platform.

We are a key player in the employee benefits solutions space and are the exclusive insurance provider for the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Home Affairs and Public Officers Group Insurance Scheme. We’re also one of three government-approved long-term care insurance providers in Singapore.

We take our commitment to achieving Net Zero seriously and are an official signatory of the United Nations Principles for Sustainable Insurance and the United Nations-supported Principles for Responsible Investment.

Singlife was formed from the merger of Aviva Singapore and Singlife, originally an insurtech start up, in January 2022. Singlife is now a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Life, who acquired Singlife in 2024. We have over S$14 billion in assets as of 31 December 2023 and are rated “A” and “Baa1” by Fitch and Moody’s respectively.

Sumitomo Life was established in 1907 and is one of Japan’s largest life insurance companies, with over US$300 billion in assets as of 31 March 2024.