The latest news in investment offerings, financial products and other services relative to wealth advisors and their clients.

GROW with Singlife, Aberdeen Investments
Singapore headquartered GROW with Singlife, an investment platform under financial services company Singlife, in partnership with Aberdeen Investments, launched on Friday a new share class of the abrdn SICAV II – Global Income Bond Fund. Currently exclusive to GROW on its platform, the A Gross Inc Hedged SGD offers investors a Yield to Worst of 6.5 per cent, comprising monthly payouts with potential capital appreciation, the firm said in a statement.

Finding a sweet spot between investment-grade bonds and high-quality high-yield debt, the fund invests 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, it said. With a globally diversified portfolio spanning investment-grade, high-yield, government, and emerging markets bonds, the fund offers what the firm said is attractive yield potential while maintaining moderate credit risk, making it a 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, the firm said that fixed income investments are gaining attention for their ability to provide higher yields and more sustainable returns. According to Morningstar, a global investment research firm, fixed income funds saw record inflows of $1 trillion in 2024, trumping all other asset classes.

As Singapore’s population ages and life expectancy continues to rise, the need for reliable retirement income is becoming increasingly critical, the firm continued. A 65-year-old today requires an estimated $685,000 to fund 20 years of retirement, or about $2,8562 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, the firm added.

“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,” Tim Wong, head of product at GROW with Singlife, said.

“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,” Natalie Tan, head of wholesale Southeast Asia at Aberdeen Investments, added.