Singapore’s holidaymakers are enjoying the strongest dollar in over a decade, with the exchange rate against the US dollar hitting its highest level since 2014 in late September. This strength has impacted various sectors, from importers and exporters to shoppers and tourists. The exchange rate surge came shortly after the country’s leadership emphasized the importance of a strong currency to combat inflation.
The Singapore dollar is also nearing record levels against the Indonesian rupiah and is not far from its highs against the yen. Many Singaporeans are taking advantage of the favorable rates, with luxury travel agencies reporting an increase in outbound travel, especially to destinations like Bali and Bangkok, where the cost of living is lower compared to Singapore. Dining out, which can be expensive locally, becomes much more affordable abroad due to the favorable exchange rate.
The strength of the Singapore dollar is underpinned by a monetary policy that prioritizes exchange rate management over interest rates. Economic challenges in China, Singapore’s largest trading partner, are contributing to the relative strength of Singapore’s currency. Trade tensions between the US and China also play a role. The International Monetary Fund has highlighted inflation risks in Singapore, reinforcing the need for a strong currency to keep inflation in check.
However, the strength of the currency is a delicate balancing act. While it helps contain inflation and benefits certain sectors of the economy, it also risks making exports less competitive. Despite the currency being close to a decade high, the actual difference between its pandemic low and current peak is only about 16 Singapore cents, as the country’s currency policy maintains a tight trading range. This has led local businesses to remain relatively calm about the situation.
A recent survey of nearly 800 local businesses found that logistics, transportation, banks, and insurers are the most optimistic about the outlook. On the other hand, hotels and restaurants, which could suffer if inbound tourism declines, were the most concerned. Some retail and food and beverage businesses are feeling the pressure as many Singaporeans are choosing to spend their money in neighboring countries like Indonesia and Malaysia, where the lifestyle is similar, but costs are much lower.
The strong currency also presents challenges for exports, potentially impacting manufacturing and employment. While the economy isn’t booming, it is stable, according to regional economists. However, certain sectors are experiencing significant activity, with transfers from Singapore dollars to US dollars tripling this northern summer compared to the previous year.
A good time to be an American living in Singapore
The strong Singapore dollar presents a range of benefits for expats especially Americans living in the city-state. One of the most significant advantages is in currency exchange, particularly for those who need to convert their Singapore dollars to US dollars for expenses such as taxes, savings, or investments back home. With the exchange rate so favorable, Americans find that their Singapore earnings stretch further when converted into US currency, offering a boost to their purchasing power abroad.
For example, expats working in Singapore have reported that this is an ideal time to transfer money back to the US, allowing them to make the most of the current exchange rate. The ability to exchange Singapore dollars for US dollars at a stronger rate means better returns when sending remittances, saving for retirement, or even purchasing property in the US.
Additionally, Americans in Singapore are seeing the cost of travel to the US become slightly more affordable. Whether booking flights or planning vacations, the strong Singapore dollar helps lower the relative cost of trips back home or to other countries where the US dollar is used or pegged closely to it.
In a broader context, this favorable exchange rate also helps American expatriates when settling financial obligations in the US. Paying off student loans, mortgages, or any outstanding debts in the US becomes easier and more efficient. Overall, the strength of the Singapore dollar against the US dollar is allowing Americans in Singapore to optimize their financial strategies, whether through savings, investments, or lifestyle choices.
Disclaimer: Please note any provider recommendations, currency forecasts or any opinions of our authors or users should not be taken as a reference to buy or sell any financial product.