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ISCA Unveils Bold Plan to Future-Proof Singapore’s Small and Medium-Sized Accounting Practices

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 December 2025 – Small and Medium-Sized Accounting Practices (SMPs) are the backbone of Singapore’s business community, supporting thousands of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises. Of the 761 Accounting Entities in Singapore, nearly all (98%) are SMPs with 100 or fewer staff, and most (70%) are micro practices with 10 staff or less. However, many SMPs today face mounting pressures: operating in isolation, facing tough competition, struggling to find talent, and keeping up with fast-changing technology. To stay relevant, SMPs need to change.

The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) unveiled a landmark strategy paper today, laying out a practical roadmap to help Singapore’s SMPs thrive in the future. Developed by ISCA’s Strengthening SMP Taskforce, the paper highlights how the sector is growing, but also how the rise of tiny firms is making competition fiercer and attracting talent harder. Many young professionals see limited career prospects in smaller firms.

Mr Koh Wee Kwang, Co-Chair of the Strengthening SMP Taskforce and ISCA Council Member, said: “The SMP sector is a vital pillar of our business ecosystem. Yet many firms continue to operate in isolation amid mounting pressures on margins, talent, and technology. This roadmap is about helping SMPs move from survival to strength, through scale, collaboration, and a shared vision for the future.”

5 key moves to help SMPs succeed

The paper sets out five practical recommendations to help SMPs grow, innovate and compete globally:

  • Work together, not alone: Encourage firms to join forces, share resources, and tackle staff shortages and boost efficiency through shared services.
  • Build trust and visibility: Introduce a digital badge system so firms can show off their strengths and achievements, making it easier for businesses and talent to spot quality providers.
  • Embrace technology: Pilot new tech solutions to make work faster and smarter, and attract the next generation of accountants.
  • Go global: Help SMPs reach overseas markets through Professional Services Centres, opening doors for cross-border business, creating demand for Singapore professional services sector.
  • Grow new talent: Launch programmes with universities and partners to attract graduates, offering clear career paths and development opportunities.

If these are put into action, SMPs will be better equipped to weather financial challenges, adopt new technologies, attract and keep talented people, and boost Singapore’s reputation as a hub for professional services.

Mr Helmi Bin Ali Bin Talib, Co-Chair of the Taskforce and ISCA Council Member, added: “Transformation starts with a change in mindset. Consolidation and collaboration are no longer threats to independence, but pathways to relevance. We must move away from the idea of doing it alone and embrace new ways to working together that allow firms to scale up, invest in innovation, and attract the next generation of professionals.”

The paper also calls for a fresh look at firm ownership rules and new ways for SMPs to team up, including leveraging shared services for manpower and digital tools, without compromising quality or standards. It also advocates the creation of a digital badge system to recognise firm credibility and raise the visibility of SMPs within Singapore’s professional services landscape.

Ms Tan Fang Yi, Divisional Director, Accountancy and Professional Development Division, Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority said: “ACRA thanks ISCA for initiating discussions on SMPs to address the challenges they face. We will continue to work closely with ISCA and relevant government agencies to strengthen Singapore’s accountancy sector, and collaborate with ISCA and the profession through the Implementation Committee for Accountancy Workforce Development (ICAWD) to build a sustainable pipeline for the accountancy profession. Our shared goal is a sector that is underpinned by good audit quality and a skilled and adaptable workforce.”

ISCA’s overseas Professional Services Centres will help SMPs connect with international markets and grow beyond Singapore.

“ISCA’s overseas Professional Services Centres serve as vital bridges for Singapore-based firms to expand their presence regionally. They also enable global companies to leverage Singapore as a trusted regional business hub, providing easy access to quality professional services that support their business expansion in the region,” said Ms Junie Fo, Vice President and Head, Professional Services, Singapore Economic Development Board.

Looking ahead

The strategy paper sets ambitious targets for the next decade, aiming for more high-quality jobs, deeper expertise, and a stronger pipeline of talent. With two strategic thrusts and five key recommendations, ISCA hopes to spark real change and keep SMPs at the heart of Singapore’s professional services sector.

The full paper can be downloaded here.
Hashtag: #ISCA #DifferenceMakers #Accounting #Accountancy #CharteredAccountants #SMPs

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

Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA)

The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) is the national accountancy body of Singapore with around 43,000 ISCA members making their stride in businesses across industries in Singapore and around the world. ISCA members can be found in over 40 countries and members based out of Singapore are supported through 12 overseas chapters in 10 countries.

Established in 1963, ISCA is an advocate of the interests of the profession. Complementing its global mindset with Asian insights, ISCA leverages its regional expertise, knowledge, and networks with diverse stakeholders to contribute towards the advancement of the accountancy profession.

ISCA administers the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification programme and is the Designated Entity to confer the Chartered Accountant of Singapore – CA (Singapore) – designation.

ISCA is a member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide, a global family that brings together the members of leading institutes to create a community of over 1.8 million Chartered Accountants and students in more than 190 countries.

For more information, visit .

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Skyro Rolls Out Reusable Digital Credit Across the Philippines, Explores Opportunities in Southeast Asian Markets

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MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 July 2026 – Skyro, a digital-first consumer finance platform, today announced the nationwide rollout of SkyroCredit, its reusable digital credit line, making it available to all eligible customers across the Philippines. The launch follows a pilot phase that attracted more than 100,000 users who have used SkyroCredit for everyday purchases, including groceries, medicines, fuel, and dining. Skyro is also exploring opportunities in Southeast Asian markets to tackle financial exclusion.

SkyroCredit is a reusable, revolving digital credit line that provides access to a fixed credit limit without a plastic and without relying on the Visa or Mastercard networks. Once approved, a customer’s credit is available within the Skyro app and can be used instantly by scanning any QR Ph code, the Philippine QR payment standard accepted at more than 90% of merchant outlets nationwide. Leading merchants include SM, Mercury Drug, Watsons, Jollibee, McDonald’s, and DALI Supermarket. Customers can borrow, repay the amount they have used, and reuse the same credit limit without reapplying.

NasimAliev, Skyro co-founder, said:
“Our goal is to provide access to affordable credit for underserved communities across Southeast Asia at a time when everyday expenses continue to rise and consumers’ financial priorities are evolving.

“Today’s consumers need financial solutions built around real-life spending needs and changing financial priorities. With SkyroCredit, we bring flexible financial solutions to our customers’ fingertips. The credit line offers all the benefits of flexibility, including an interest-free grace period. This provides customers with maximum convenience for everyday use while even allowing them to save money through cashback.

“By expanding our portfolio of point-of-sale loans, cash loans, and Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) products to include flexible credit lines, we are building long-term customer relationships based on everyday use, responsible borrowing, and trust.”

Eligible customers receive initial credit limits of PHP 1,000 to PHP 10,000 (approximately USD 17 to USD 170), with the opportunity to increase their limit to as much as PHP 100,000 through regular, responsible use. Purchases carry 0% interest for up to 45 days. Every purchase also earns 1% cashback, which customers can redeem on future purchases through the app.

Skyro’s expansion into reusable digital credit addresses one of Southeast Asia’s largest financial inclusion opportunities by enabling sustained customer engagement. According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the central bank of the Philippines, only half of Filipino adults have a formal financial account. As QR-based payment networks continue to expand across the region, Skyro can leverage this infrastructure to deliver accessible digital credit products that meet growing consumer demand.

Hashtag: #Skyro #SkyroCredit #DigitalCredit

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

About Skyro

Skyro is a high-growth, digital-first fintech group delivering scalable, responsible access to financial services across high-potential emerging markets. Powered by proprietary data science, AI-driven credit decisioning and alternative data scoring, the company combines a mobile-native experience with modular fintech architecture to serve underserved customer segments at scale.

In just three years, Skyro has grown to serve over one million active customers in the Philippines, underpinned by a robust credit portfolio exceeding $200 million. The company’s strategic ambition is to establish itself as the preeminent full-spectrum financial services group across dozens of emerging markets worldwide.

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Peach Garden Celebrates Mid-Autumn Festival with Singapore Flyer-Inspired Mooncake Keepsake Gift Set

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 July 2026 – Peach Garden has unveiled its 2026 Mid-Autumn mooncake collection, headlined by the Graceful Showstopper, a keepsake gift set inspired by the Singapore Flyer.

Peach Garden Celebrates Mid-Autumn Festival with Singapore Flyer-Inspired Mooncake Keepsake Gift Set

The Singapore Flyer design roots the collection in a recognisably local identity, with the launch timed to the National Day period as the city moves into the traditional Mid-Autumn Festival gifting and reunion season. Pre-orders open from 13 July to 10 August at $61 nett inclusive of GST (usual price: $91.11).

A Keepsake Built Around the Singapore Skyline

Designed around a circular silhouette that echoes the Singapore Flyer’s iconic form, the Graceful Showstopper is crafted to hold its place in a home well beyond the festival.

Rooted in a recognisably Singaporean aesthetic, it functions as a decorative display piece as much as a festive gift, whether set out for a family gathering, presented to a business client, or kept as a personal memento of the season. Logo customisations are available on corporate orders of 50 boxes or more.

Handmade Daily, in a Range Built for Modern Palates

Returning alongside the centrepiece is Peach Garden’s low-sugar mooncake range, available in baked and snowskin varieties. The Deluxe Combination of Four spans four flavours across eight miniature pieces:

  • Mini Lemon Yuzu Snowskin
  • Mini Pandan Lotus Snowskin with Melon Seed
  • Mini Low Sugar White Lotus Snowskin with Macadamia
  • Mini Lychee Snowskin with Lychee Martini Truffle

Every mooncake in the range is handmade fresh daily across Peach Garden’s six outlets, a practice the group has maintained amidst an industry where production has shifted increasingly toward automation.

The collection will be available at more than 20 festive kiosks across Singapore for the first time, including Takashimaya from 20 August and VivoCity from 25 August, both through 25 September. Collection is available from 11 August to 25 September at all six Peach Garden outlets, from 11am to 3pm and 6pm to 10pm.
Hashtag: #PeachGarden #GracefulShowstopper #MoonCakeFestival #MidAutumnFestival





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

About Peach Garden

Peach Garden is one of Singapore’s leading Chinese restaurant brands, renowned for its contemporary Chinese cuisine, exceptional hospitality, and award-winning festive creations. With six outlets across Singapore, the brand continues to bring families, friends, and businesses together through meaningful dining and gifting experiences.

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Rethinking Urban Development: Vietnamese Developers Shaping Future Cities

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HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 July 2026 – As global urban challenges evolve, Vietnamese Developers offer valuable insights into alternative development models.

Vinhomes’ strategic response is crystallized in its ESG

For much of the past century, urban development followed a relatively straightforward equation: build housing, expand infrastructure and accommodate population growth. This formula is now showing its limitations. As climate risk intensifies, biodiversity declines and cities compete not only for investment but also for talent, developers around the world are now forced to redefine the very nature and purpose of what they build.

From the Gulf to Singapore, and from Scandinavia to Southeast Asia, large-scale urban projects are evolving into integrated ecosystems where mobility, green infrastructure, education, healthcare, digital services and environmental restoration are planned together. The industry paradigm has shifted from constructing buildings to designing places capable of sustaining both economic growth and quality of life over generations.

Vinhomes has initiated a comprehensive repositioning to navigate this global transition.

Known as Vietnam’s largest residential developer, the company is increasingly recognized not merely as a builder of housing projects, but as a creator of large-scale lifestyle ecosystems, communities where urban planning, technology, ecology and public services are conceived as parts of the same system.

When Nature Becomes Urban Infrastructure

For decades, environmental considerations were often introduced after a city’s masterplan had already been completed.

The emerging model reverses that sequence. Across many of its recent developments, Vinhomes operates on the principle that natural systems should become the starting point of planning. Hydrology, coastal conditions, biodiversity and existing vegetation are treated as design inputs that shape the urban layout from the earliest stages.

This philosophy marks a notable departure from conventional large-scale development, particularly in rapidly urbanising markets where natural landscapes have frequently given way to intensive construction.

With more than 30 developments across Vietnam and a land bank equivalent to roughly two-thirds the size of Singapore, Vinhomes has the unusual opportunity to test this planning approach at a metropolitan scale.

Rather than replicating identical urban formulas, each project is designed around the ecological characteristics of its location.

The company maintains that the long-term success of a city should ultimately be measured not by how much has been built, but by whether natural ecosystems continue to thrive decades after residents have moved in. That perspective aligns with an increasingly influential school of urban planning in which green infrastructure is viewed as essential public infrastructure.

Factors Compelling Cities Toward Regeneration

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) frameworks have become standard across global investment. Urban planners, however, are beginning to question whether sustainability alone is sufficient.

Maintaining today’s environmental conditions may no longer be enough if tomorrow’s cities must also respond to rising temperatures, sea-level change and growing demographic pressures.

Vinhomes’ strategic response is crystallized in its ESG++, a framework that extends beyond conventional ESG principles by introducing two additional objectives: Regeneration and resilience.

The distinction is subtle but important.

Regeneration implies restoring ecological systems rather than simply reducing environmental impact. Resilience focuses on designing cities capable of adapting to changing climatic, technological and social conditions over many decades.

Projects such as Vinhomes Green Paradise Can Gio and Vinhomes Global Gates Ha Long are intended to demonstrate how these concepts can be incorporated into large-scale urban planning, combining renewable energy, smart infrastructure and ecological restoration within a single development model.

This shift highlights a growing global consensus: the success of next-generation cities will ultimately be measured by their ability to adapt to increasingly complex environmental challenges.

Vietnam’s Urban Story Is Becoming Part of a Global Conversation

For many international audiences, Vietnam remains associated primarily with its cultural heritage and natural landscapes. Urban development may become an equally important part of that story.

Rapid urbanisation, expanding infrastructure investment and a national commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 have created conditions in which entirely new urban models can be planned without many of the legacy constraints facing older cities.

This developmental opportunity is capturing increasing global interest.

Commenting on Vinhomes Green Paradise’s participation in the global 7 Wonders of Future Cities initiative, Jean-Paul de la Fuente, Director of the New7Wonders Organisation, described Vietnam as undergoing a “transformative step change” in its national identity and global positioning. He pointed to the country’s progress in reducing the carbon footprint of urban mobility as an example of coordinated action between government and the private sector that offers valuable insights extending beyond Southeast Asia.

For Vinhomes, participation in international platforms such as 7 Wonders of Future Cities is therefore less about showcasing a single project than about contributing to a broader discussion on how rapidly developing economies might approach urban growth differently. The company’s evolution mirrors a wider shift taking place across the global property sector.

Increasingly, the core value proposition for developers is no longer anchored in how many buildings they can deliver. Instead, it centers on whether they can create cities that remain economically competitive, environmentally resilient and socially relevant long after construction has ended.

Hashtag: #Vinhomes

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

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