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

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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

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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

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