From property market updates to viral social media controversies and a weekend packed with events, here is your essential roundup of what is happening in Singapore this week of 24 April 2026.
1. Singapore Private Property Prices Rise 0.9% in Q1 2026
Fresh data released today by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) confirms that Singapore’s private residential property price index rose by 0.9% quarter-on-quarter in the first quarter of 2026 — slightly higher than the 0.6% increase recorded in Q4 2025.
The Outside Central Region (OCR) led gains with a 1.3% q-o-q increase, followed by the Rest of Central Region (RCR) at 0.9%. The Core Central Region (CCR) posted a 0.4% gain, reversing its 3.5% decline in the previous quarter.
Non-landed properties logged a 1.0% q-o-q price increase, while landed properties saw prices dip 1.8% — a reversal after a 3.4% rise in the prior quarter.
The data suggests that Singapore’s residential property market continues to hold steady despite elevated interest rates and government cooling measures. For buyers and investors watching the market, the message is clear: prices are not falling. If you are waiting for a significant correction, current signals do not support that expectation.
2. Singapore Inflation Rises to 1.8% as Transport Costs Drive Prices Higher
Consumer price inflation in Singapore has ticked up to 1.8%, with rising transport costs identified as the primary driver. This comes after a period of easing inflation, and serves as a reminder that price pressures have not fully abated.
Transport costs — including car ownership expenses (with COE premiums having surged in recent bidding rounds) and fuel prices — are a meaningful component of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for Singaporean households. The uptick in inflation is likely to prompt close monitoring from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).
For everyday Singaporeans, this means the cost of living continues to inch upward. Grocery shoppers, commuters, and car owners will all feel the pressure, albeit modestly at 1.8% overall.
3. NUS Student Investigated for Racist Remarks That Went Viral
A National University of Singapore (NUS) student is under investigation by the university and has stepped down from her student leadership position after videos of her making racist remarks went viral online. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation across social media and reignited conversations about race relations and tolerance in Singapore.
NUS confirmed it is taking the matter seriously and is investigating in accordance with its disciplinary processes. Singapore’s racial harmony — built on decades of deliberate social policy and inter-community understanding — is a cornerstone of the nation’s identity, and incidents like this are treated with zero tolerance by institutions and the broader public alike.
The incident serves as a reminder that Singapore’s diversity, while a source of enormous strength, requires ongoing commitment from every member of society to uphold.
4. COE April 2026 2nd Bidding: Cat A Surges to $123,010
The second COE bidding exercise of April 2026 concluded this Wednesday with Category A premiums surging to $123,010 — overtaking Category B ($121,001) for the second time this year. This continues a worrying trend of escalating car ownership costs in Singapore.
Category E (open category) hit $125,002, while Category C (goods vehicles) rose to $83,501. Only Category D (motorcycles) saw a slight decline to $9,290.
We have published a full breakdown of the COE April 2026 2nd bidding results — read our complete analysis here, including our outlook on where prices are headed next round.
5. Labour Day Long Weekend Just Around the Corner
With Labour Day falling on Friday 1 May 2026, Singaporeans are looking at a four-day long weekend — from Thursday 30 April through Sunday 3 May, if you take Thursday off. Travel bookings and staycation enquiries have reportedly spiked.
If you are planning a quick getaway, we have already published a comprehensive guide: Labour Day 2026 Long Weekend: 6 Easy Getaways from Singapore. From Batam to Bintan, Bangkok to Bali, there are options for every budget and timeframe.
6. Singapore HeritageFest 2026 Registration Is Open
Registration for Singapore HeritageFest 2026 opened on 22 April 2026 at noon, and spots for the most popular programmes — including the theatrical bumboat experience “A Bump Through Time” — are filling up fast.
The festival runs from 1 to 24 May 2026, featuring over 100 programmes celebrating Singapore’s maritime heritage. From Pulau Ubin trails to sober raves and gelato-making workshops inspired by Peranakan flavours, there is something for everyone.
Visit heritage.sg/sgheritagefest to register. See our full HeritageFest 2026 guide for the complete programme lineup.
7. Minecraft Experience Just Opened at Mandai Today
In great news for families, Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue opened today at Green Canvas, Mandai Wildlife Reserve — making its Asian debut in Singapore. The one-hour immersive experience runs until 13 September 2026.
Tickets start from $40 for children and $46 for adults on weekdays. Book at minecraftexperience.com/singapore. See our full guide to things to do this weekend for more family-friendly options.
8. Isetan NEX Closes on Sunday — Last Chance to Shop
The iconic Isetan department store at NEX (Serangoon) is closing its doors for good this Sunday, 26 April 2026, after 15 years at the mall. The final clearance sale is offering up to 90% off storewide.
After Sunday, Singapore will be left with just one Isetan outlet — at Scotts Road along Orchard. If you want to grab any remaining bargains, today and tomorrow are your last opportunities. Check out our full guide to the Isetan NEX closing sale.
Stay Informed with Little Big Red Dot
That is your Singapore weekly roundup for 24 April 2026. From property prices to viral controversies and unmissable events, Little Big Red Dot keeps you updated on what matters to everyday Singaporeans.
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