DBS Archives

Singapore's Firsts: Investment using CPF

Step back to 1978 and witness the landmark Singapore Bus Services (SBS) IPO - a pivotal moment when Singaporeans could first use their CPF savings to invest in shares. This revolutionary move transformed the investment landscape, granting ordinary Singaporeans newfound access to the stock market. Join Xing and Jaan as they explore the excitement and challenges of this groundbreaking event, including the distinctive allocation criteria set by Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Goh Keng Swee, which prioritised shares for those without cars. The success of the SBS IPO not only marked a significant shift but also laid the groundwork for future financial innovations. Fast forward to 1985, when DBS is poised to lead Singapore’s first international IPO by a local firm: the Singapore Airlines (SIA) IPO. Building on the lessons learned from the SBS IPO, DBS’s leadership and strategic acumen were vital in navigating this high-profile transaction amid the Pan-El crisis. Discover how DBS’s innovative approach and resilience during the SIA IPO highlighted their growing expertise and dedication to shaping Singapore’s financial future.   Profile Tan Soo Nan joined the bank in 1971 and left in 1998. Over his 27-year tenure, he played a crucial role in numerous pioneering achievements, including the transformative IPOs that ignited Singapore's financial market. His contributions were instrumental in driving these groundbreaking achievements.   Find out more about our heritage: https://www.dbs.com/dbs-heritage/stories.html [https://www.dbs.com/dbs-heritage/stories.html] See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Singapore's Firsts: Electronic Shares Application (ESA)

Take a trip back to 1993 with DBS mascots Xing and Jaan as they explore a pivotal moment in Singapore’s financial history—the launch of the Electronic Shares Application (ESA). Through Gen Voice AI, this episode of the Singapore's Firsts podcast uncovers how DBS transformed the way Singaporeans participated in the stock market, beginning with the monumental Singtel IPO. Before ESA, applying for shares was a tedious and time-consuming process that involved long queues and heaps of paperwork. However, the introduction of ESA during the Singtel IPO revolutionised the system, allowing over a million Singaporeans to apply for shares quickly and conveniently via ATMs. This innovation not only simplified the application process but also set the stage for future advancements in digital banking. Join Xing and Jaan as they dive into the challenges faced by the DBS team, the innovative thinking that led to the creation of ESA, and the lasting impact this breakthrough had on Singapore’s financial landscape.  Profiles Ms Elsie Foh joined the bank in 1974. She played a significant role in the introduction of ESA, leveraging DBS's extensive ATM network to enable this groundbreaking innovation.  Mr Kan Shik Lum joined the bank in 1982. He was deeply involved in the development and implementation of ESA. His leadership in forming the taskforce and coordinating with various departments, including technology and legal teams, was crucial in bringing ESA to life. Find out more about our heritage: https://www.dbs.com/dbs-heritage/stories.html [https://www.dbs.com/dbs-heritage/stories.html] See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Singapore's Firsts: Tallest Hotel in the World

Step into the grand history of Raffles City, a landmark project that reshaped Singapore's skyline and the tourism industry. Hosted by DBS mascots Xing and Jaan through Gen Voice AI, this podcast episode delves into the remarkable journey of Raffles City from its initial conception to its successful completion. Originally planned a decade earlier, Raffles City's ambitious project was shelved due to challenging conditions. It was revived in 1979 and, after overcoming numerous hurdles, was completed in 1986. Discover how Raffles City, which featured the world's largest hotel at the time, redefined urban development with its visionary design and innovative mixed-use spaces. Join Xing and Jaan as they merge technology with storytelling, sharing captivating insights into the project's revival and the strategic decisions that led to its success. You'll gain a deeper appreciation for how Raffles City not only changed Singapore’s skyline but also set new standards for global urban development. Profiles Mr JY Pillay served as Chairman of DBS from 1979 to 1985, overseeing key initiatives including the Raffles City project, which had been on hold since its initial conception in 1969.  Mr Lau Chan Sin began his career with DBS in 1969 and retired in 2000, marking a distinguished 31-year tenure. He served as General Manager of Raffles City Pte Ltd and, as Chairman of DBS Land from 1996 to 2000, was pivotal in transforming the company into a major force in the property sector. Mr Hong Tuck Kun joined DBS in 1975 and retired in 2018, amassing 43 years with the company. His extensive roles included significant contributions to the real estate and services department, where he was instrumental in overseeing many iconic property developments. Mr Loh Soo Eng joined DBS in 1974 and was later transferred to DBS Land in 1980, where he was appointed as the General Manager in 1982. In his role, he helmed several groundbreaking real estate projects.   Find out more about our heritage: https://www.dbs.com/dbs-heritage/stories.html [https://www.dbs.com/dbs-heritage/stories.html] See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Singapore's Firsts: Multi-Level Shopping Mall

Step into the vibrant history of Plaza Singapura, Singapore's first multi-level shopping mall. Hosted by DBS mascots Xing and Jaan through Gen Voice AI, this podcast episode invites you to explore the mall's remarkable journey from concept to reality. Discover how Plaza Singapura transformed the retail landscape when it opened its doors, attracting record-breaking numbers of visitors and introducing Singaporeans to a new era of shopping. Learn about the innovative mix of tenants, including the iconic Yaohan, and the unique amenities they offered that made the mall a family-friendly hub. Join Xing and Jaan as they blend technology with nostalgia, sharing captivating stories and insights into the challenges faced during the mall's development, including its strategic location near the Istana and the initial hurdles encountered in securing tenants. You'll gain a deeper appreciation for how Plaza Singapura not only redefined shopping in Singapore but also set the stage for future retail developments. Profiles Mr Lock Sai Hung joined DBS in 1969, just months after the bank was established. As a pioneering veteran, he witnessed the bank’s formative years and played a crucial role in developing its commercial services, ranging from investment banking to international banking. Mr James Ng began his journey with DBS in 1973 as a project manager in the property division. During his 26-year tenure, he played a pivotal role in overseeing numerous iconic properties both in Singapore and internationally.  Mr Loh Soo Eng joined DBS in 1974 and was later transferred to DBS Land in 1980, where he was appointed as the General Manager in 1982. In his role, he helmed several groundbreaking real estate projects.   Find out more about our heritage: https://www.dbs.com/dbs-heritage/stories.html [https://www.dbs.com/dbs-heritage/stories.html] See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Singapore's Firsts: Tallest Building

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the fascinating story of the tallest building in Singapore – the iconic DBS Building. Hosted by DBS mascots Xing and Jaan through Gen Voice AI, this podcast episode delves deep into the archives to uncover the building's captivating history.   Discover how this 50-story superstructure, built from scratch by the bank itself, catalysed the development of Singapore's Central Business District and cemented the country's reputation as the "New York of Asia." Uncover the meticulous planning and engineering feats that went into constructing this record-breaking tower, as well as the bank's pioneering venture into real estate.   Join Xing and Jaan as they guide you through a unique blend of AI and nostalgia, revealing fascinating anecdotes and the lasting impact of this iconic landmark on Singapore's urban landscape. Step back in time and connect with the early days of DBS like never before.   Profiles Mr Lock Sai Hung joined DBS in 1969, just months after the bank was established. As a pioneering veteran, he witnessed the bank’s formative years and played a crucial role in developing its commercial services, ranging from investment banking to international banking.   Mr Loh Soo Eng joined DBS in 1974 and was later transferred to DBS Land in 1980, where he was appointed as the General Manager in 1982. In his role, he helmed several groundbreaking real estate projects.   Find out more about our heritage: https://www.dbs.com/dbs-heritage/stories.html [https://www.dbs.com/dbs-heritage/stories.html] See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.