All eyes on MAS review group as potential issuers wait on the sidelines

INITIAL public offering (IPO) interest appears to be perking up in Singapore, but potential issuers here are closely watching developments in the equities market.

Market watchers say that the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s (MAS) review of the Republic’s equities market will play a role in encouraging new listings. But the real impact will depend on what announcements are made – and when.

Set up in August, the MAS review group, chaired by Second Minister for Finance Chee Hong Tat, is looking into ways to enliven the local equities market. Industry watchers are generally positive about the review group’s establishment, but note that some companies may opt to take in any possible changes announced by the group before considering a Singapore listing.