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DPM Gan Kim Yong moved from CCK GRC to Punggol GRC

Gemma Iso
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DPM Gan Kim Yong moved from CCK GRC to Punggol GRC

SINGAPORE: A veteran in an unfamiliar battleground, Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Gan Kim Yong is leading the People’s Action Party (PAP) team in the newly formed four-member Punggol Group Representation Constituency (GRC), leaving behind Chua Chu Kang GRC, which he served as a Member of Parliament for 14 years.

Gan’s entry into Chua Chu Kang remained a closely guarded secret until Nomination Day on Wednesday (Apr 23).

The DPM arrived at the nomination centre in Yusof Ishak Secondary School in Punggol Central at approximately 11.30 a.m. to hand in his nomination papers for Punggol GRC.

The other members of the PAP team in the GRC are Dr Janil Puthucheary, Sun Xueling, and Yeo Wan Ling.

Until Nomination Day, several assumptions abounded about who would anchor the PAP slate for Punggol GRC.

With 123,557 voters, Punggol GRC was created after the Electoral Boundaries Review Committee recommended carving it out from the Punggol estates in Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC and merging it with Punggol West SMC.

Piquantly, the veteran Gan will be facing a team of newbies.

The PAP will be challenged by the Workers’ Party, which is fielding newcomers Harpreet Singh, Jackson Aw, Siti Alia Abdul Rahim Mattar, and Alexis Dang.

As Mr Gan addressed his supporters, he clarified that the election will all be about the future of Singapore as a nation and for the betterment of the lives of thousands of young Singaporeans. “We are facing challenges; our economy and our jobs are at stake, but we believe that if we work together, work as a team, we will overcome these challenges,” Mr Gan emphasised.

He likewise talked to the media and said that while he is new to the Punggol GRC, he vows to learn fast and learn as fast as he can.

According to Dr Janil, the PAP team is capable of bringing good jobs to the Punggol Digital District, can very well deal with transport-related problems in Punggol, and can maintain the cleanliness and safety of the estate.

Immediately after the confirmation of his candidacy, Mr Gan assured supporters that his team would continue to offer sincere hard work to gain the trust and confidence of the people and “to continue to serve you for the next five years and secure a better future,” he added.

Many reporters inquired about the reasons that prodded the surprise move, how the decision was made and when it was made.

Mr Gan responded that whenever the team makes a deployment, it is always a consideration made by party leadership based on numerous factors. He made it clear that the residents are always decisive factors. “Plans are always made depending on availability of candidates; we always need to make the adjustments,” he further explained.

Hash browns and green bean soup: Singaporeans share memories of growing up poor

Beatrice Del Rosario
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Hash browns and green bean soup: Singaporeans share memories of growing up poor

SINGAPORE: Singaporeans who experienced poverty during their childhood came together in a heartfelt online thread after one user shared a striking memory—surviving on hash browns and green bean soup while growing up in a low-income household. The post struck a chord, prompting an emotional wave of responses from others who also grew up with limited means.

“For those who grew up poor, what’s your strongest memory?” the writer asked. “I will start. I wasn’t super poor, but there was a period of time I kept being fed hash browns and green bean soup because these were cheap when bought in bulk and easy to prepare for a large family.” He shared that up until this day, he still has a “visceral fear” of the two kinds of food.

The impact of growing up poor on the adult mind

According to Therapy Cincinnati, growing up in poverty can have a significant effect on a child’s brain development and mental health, which often shows up in different ways in adulthood.  Childhood trauma revolving around being poor has a significant impact on an adult’s feelings, behaviour, and thoughts.

This seemed to be the case as many people took to the comments section of the post and shared their core memories around growing up poor. “Phobia of not having enough money,” one said. “Kept being told that my dad was going to lose his job soon, from when I was in secondary 2 till JC (but he didn’t lose his job [until] I was in my 20s), and as the eldest, I’d have to be sensible and help the family save money. I felt so much guilt taking pocket money and deprived myself of so many experiences that my peers had at that age.

“Not [until] I was a working adult, I told my friends this story and they were horrified because it’s not normal for parents to expect their kids to shoulder this burden, as what can a teenager do?

“But I was always wise beyond my years and hyper-independent because I grew up not being protected and went through a lot compared to people my age. Also influenced me to be child-free because I don’t want to subject my kid to such economic suffering.”

Many others chimed in with deeply personal and seemingly random memories—eating canned food so often as kids that they now can’t stand the taste, receiving hand-me-down toys from uncles, or watching their mothers quietly sacrifice by ordering just one meal when eating out. From the lighthearted to the heart-wrenching, these stories show how growing up poor leaves a lasting imprint and shapes different factors of adult life, from spending habits to resilience and the perception of sacrifice, discipline, and love.

See also:  ‘My dad has a gambling addiction, but my mother has to work to pay off his debts’ — 23 y/o daughter reveals her mental struggles

Featured image by Freepik / chandlervid85 (for illustration purposes only)

GE2025: Sembawang GRC faces three-way contest among PAP, SDP, and NSP

A. Aman
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GE2025: Sembawang GRC faces three-way contest among PAP, SDP, and NSP

SINGAPORE: In what is shaping up to be one of the most meaningful races this election, Sembawang GRC will see a three-cornered fight as Singapore heads to the polls on May 3, 2025. With rising costs, changing demographics, and a population hungry for authentic connection, the contest is more than just political—it’s about three vastly different ideologies.

The official confirmation came on Nomination Day (April 3): three parties, three distinct paths, and one critical decision for voters in the north.

The incumbents: People’s Action Party (PAP)

Led by Health Minister Ong Ye Kung, the PAP team is banking on its track record of infrastructural development and steady leadership. The full slate includes:

  • Ong Ye Kung
  • Vikram Nair
  • Mariam Jaafar
  • Gabriel Lam
  • Ng Shi Xuan

Their message is one of continuity and stability, emphasising national strength in uncertain global times, but this year, they face energised challengers offering Singaporeans something different.

The challenger: Singapore Democratic Party (SDP)

With a platform rooted in compassion, accountability, and economic justice, SDP is contesting Sembawang with:

  • Bryan Lim Boon Heng (Vice-Chairman)
  • Dr James Gomez (Deputy Head of Policy)
  • Surayah Akbar
  • Damanhuri Abas
  • Alfred Tan

In their speeches, SDP highlighted the rising cost of living, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) hikes, and widening inequality.

“Don’t just survive—thrive,” said Dr Gomez. “Be the catalyst for change. We deserve a government that cares for people, not just profits.”

SDP promises bold reform: fairer taxation, stronger social safety nets, and a vision of Singapore where no one is left behind.

The Wildcard: National Solidarity Party (NSP)

Standing as a grassroots alternative focused on empathy and lived experience, NSP’s team consists of:

  • Rienar Andia
  • Wil Chunghan
  • Marina Hong
  • Yazi Iris
  • Damuri bin Abbas

Their campaign struck a deeply human chord.

“We are not elites—we are parents, professionals, workers just like you. We understand the struggles of raising children, caring for elders, and making ends meet.”

NSP is pushing for housing solutions, caregiver support, mental health policies, and jobs with dignity. Their promise? Not polished press conferences, but presence — in markets, at void decks, and with the people every day.

A turning point for the north?

Sembawang GRC isn’t just another battleground—it’s a bellwether for where Singapore’s political soul may be headed. With three distinct voices vying for the hearts of voters, residents here face a clear and consequential choice:

  • Stability with the PAP
  • Reform with the SDP
  • Grounded empathy with the NSP

In the weeks to come, as walkabouts begin and manifestos are unveiled, one thing is clear: the future of Sembawang will not be decided by slogans, but by vision, courage, and connection.

Stay tuned to The Independent for daily coverage and real-time updates from the ground.

Changi Beach reopens for water activities after Johor oil spill clean-up, says NEA

Merzsam Singkee
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Changi Beach reopens for water activities after Johor oil spill clean-up, says NEA

SINGAPORE: Changi Beach has officially reopened for swimming and water activities following weeks of closure due to the Johor oil spill. The National Environment Agency (NEA) announced that water quality at the popular coastal site has returned to safe levels.

In a brief public update, NEA stated: “The water quality at Changi Beach is now back to normal. You may now swim and take part in water activities there.”

This marks a key milestone in Singapore’s environmental recovery efforts after the spill, which originated from a pipeline leak at Langsat Terminal near the Johor River and released 1.6 cubic metres of very low sulphur fuel oil into surrounding waters.

Singapore’s swift response

Singapore’s response minimised the harm from the spill. They issued timely advisories, initiated clean-up operations, and intensively monitored water quality across affected areas. Both Changi and Pasir Ris beaches were also closed on April 3 as a precautionary measure for public health and marine life.

Environmental authorities have been working very hard to control the impact of the oil spill. They also did water quality tests to determine when it would be safe to lift restrictions. These actions signify Singapore’s strong environmental protocols and commitment to public safety.

Environmental impact extends beyond recreation

The spill had significant ecological impact; Chek Jawa Wetlands and several East Johor Strait fish farms reported contamination. Marine wildlife was at risk, and aquaculture operations, like that of the De Kelong fish farm, were forced to halt temporarily.

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) allayed food safety concerns by confirming that seafood, both imported and locally farmed, underwent stringent testing and remained safe for consumption.

Reopening follows earlier announcement at Pasir Ris Beach

This development follows a similar announcement on April 15, when NEA lifted the swimming advisory at Pasir Ris Beach after water quality there had also stabilised. At the time, the authorities had stated that Changi Beach would remain closed to the public.

The reopening of both beaches signifies progress in environmental recovery efforts. It also reassures beachgoers and local businesses that are reliant on coastal tourism and recreation.

Public sentiments show relief and concerns

Online comments have been both positive and sceptical about water cleanliness. One user remarked, “Oil or no oil, the coastal areas are too dirty for swimming.” This reflects the people’s concerns about the overall state of the beach.

Others were more positive, commenting, “Oh my gosh!” to show their relief. Another added, “Good job has been done!”.

These responses echo a broader public sentiment that, while grateful for the swift action, also recognises the need for long-term environmental stewardship.

Balancing recovery with future prevention

Authorities and environmental advocates continue to emphasise the importance of proactive safeguards to prevent future spills. Such incidents serve as a reminder of how fragile the environment is and how human actions can have devastating consequences.

The reopening is a welcome development, but it also underscores the importance of maintaining vigilance, both in environmental regulation and in fostering public awareness around marine conservation. Cleanups are only a temporary fix, and more long-term measures must be taken to avoid recurrences.

GE2025: Dr Chee secures clean fight with Poh Li San in Sembawang West SMC

A. Aman
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GE2025: Dr Chee secures clean fight with Poh Li San in Sembawang West SMC

SINGAPORE: The stage is set for a high-stakes showdown in the newly carved electoral division of Sembawang West, where the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) has officially fielded its veteran leader, Dr Chee Soon Juan, against incumbent Member of Parliament Poh Li San of the People’s Action Party (PAP).

At the close of nominations on Wednesday (April 23), only two candidates were declared, ensuring a much-anticipated one-on-one contest in a year crowded with multi-cornered fights elsewhere.

The returning officer confirmed the final slate under the scorching afternoon sun:
“From the west, representing the Singapore Democratic Party, Dr Chee Soon Juan. And from the People’s Action Party, Ms Poh Li San. As such, the election will proceed between these two individuals on May 3rd.”

Both candidates delivered brief speeches following the formalities. Dr Chee, ever fiery and poetic, rallied the crowd with a vision of hope over fear.

“We want Singaporeans to live in hope, not fear. To get back—not just get by. To thrive, not just survive,” he declared in a passionate one-minute speech, urging voters to join the SDP’s movement for change.

Poh Li San, a former Singapore Armed Forces helicopter pilot and current PAP Member of Parliament, has kept a lower profile in the early campaign trail, but her incumbency and the PAP’s deep roots in the area give her a significant advantage in ground support and resources.

However, the SDP sees the straight fight as a golden opportunity. The absence of third-party contenders allows the party to channel all its energy into contrasting its vision with that of the ruling party without the risk of vote-splitting.

Clean fight, clear choice

In a GE packed with battleground Group Representation Constituencies and three-cornered fights, the duel in Sembawang West stands out for its clarity. With no distractions or tactical withdrawals needed, voters here face a clean, direct choice between two distinct visions for Singapore.

Dr Chee, who has spent over two decades as an opposition leader, appears more resolute than ever.

“Join our rallies. Vote SDP,” he closed, to cheers from supporters.

Whether his renewed messaging can finally turn the tide remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Sembawang West will be one to watch come May 3.

Stay tuned to The Independent for the latest coverage of GE2025—straight from the ground.

‘This morning’s developments have been wild,’ commenters say of Nomination Day twists and surprises

Anna Maria Romero
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‘This morning’s developments have been wild,’ commenters say of Nomination Day twists and surprises

SINGAPORE: Nomination Day for this year’s polls has been particularly exciting, with a number of twists, turns, and surprises that appear to have caught many Singaporeans off guard.

For the first time since 2011, there has been a walkover, with the ruling People’s Action Party’s (PAP) slate at the newly minted Marine Parade-Bradell Heights Group Representation Constituency (GRC) going uncontested. It had been previously thought that The Workers’ Party (WP) would field a team there, given that it had won 57.74% in the last election and that its members have been active on the ground for many years.

WP chief Pritam Singh explained why the party chose the  “very difficult decision” not to contest: “to give our candidates the best chance of electoral success, the party must focus its best efforts this GE (General Election) on a smaller number of constituencies than we would have hoped to contest.”

The move of Manpower Minister Tan See Leng from Marine Parade to lead the PAP slate at Chua Chu Kang, as well as that of Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, who had been at Chua Chu Kang since 2011, to East Coast GRC. Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong was moved from Marine Parade GRC to anchor the PAP team at Jurong GRC, where he will be up against The Workers’ Party’s rising star Harpreet Singh, a Senior Counsel of the Supreme Court.

Perhaps less surprising were the announcements from Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat and Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean that they were stepping down, especially since the two men have served Singapore for many years now.

As for the opposition Workers’ Party, it showed a few strategic moves of its own, fielding Aljunied MP and party vice-chair Faisal Manap to lead the slate at Tampines GRC, where there will be a four-cornered fight as the National Solidarity Party and the People’s Power Party are also fielding candidates to challenge the incumbent PAP team.

“This morning’s developments have been wild. Truly jaw-dropping moves from all sides,” wrote a Reddit user.

Commenting on the last-minute candidates, another wrote, “If the political parties have to resort to swapping around chess pieces last minute to dodge or counter, they don’t deserve the votes of the people they are supposed to represent and fight for. This is not a game of cards, and the average person can see and know that the joker being swapped in has never been present in their GRC/SMC before.”

“I think we need to vote for the voice that can best represent the people in Parliament as well as the person who has been walking the ground and connecting with ordinary folk,” one wrote.

As for the walkover in Marine Parade-Bradell Heights, a Reddit user wrote that while they understood where the WP chief was coming from, he/she added, “I wish I had the chance to vote.”

Another appeared to feel the same way, writing, “This would’ve been my first time voting smh.”

“In hindsight, having multi-corner fights are better than walkovers,” chimed in another. /TISG

Read also: After 10 years, PAP wins a seat by walkover as WP declines to pursue Marine Parade

ACL 2 final: Sailors and Sharjah locked in dispute over Jalan Besar Stadium

Khalis Rifhan
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ACL 2 final: Sailors and Sharjah locked in dispute over Jalan Besar Stadium

SINGAPORE: The stage is set for a historic Asian Football Federation’s Asian Champions League (ACL) Two final appearance for Lion City Sailors, but tensions are already building up off the field even before they face opponents Sharjah Football Club from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Sunday, May 18, in Singapore.

Channel News Asia reported that Sharjah had expressed reservations about the stadium for the final, requesting a change in venue as they do not want to play at the Jalan Besar Stadium. The UAE club are seeking an “allocation of a suitable stadium worthy of the AFC ACL Two final.” 

In a statement to the media over the weekend, Sailors mentioned that they are working closely with AFC, Sport Singapore, and the Football Association of Singapore on the venue arrangements for the AFC Champions League Two final.

“We want to state our position clearly: this final must be played in Singapore. This is our home, and as the club that has earned the right to host the final, we believe it is only fair and proper that it takes place on Singaporean soil,” said the Sailors in their media release on April 19.

The club explained that Jalan Besar Stadium has been a certified AFC Champions League Two venue that meets the AFC’s regulations and requirements throughout the competition, successfully hosting six home matches in this tournament alone.

“We are excited about the significance of this final—not just for our club, but for Singapore football. Hosting the final in Singapore would not only be a just conclusion to our Champions League Two campaign, but a proud moment for Singapore football on the continental stage.

“We believe that hosting such a high-stakes match on home soil can serve as a much-needed catalyst to uplift the local football scene and reignite national pride in the sport,” added the Singapore Premier League club.

ACL 2 QF 2nd Leg: Sailors taking on Sanfrecce Hiroshima at the Jalan Besar Stadium on March 12. (Photo credit: Lion City Sailors FC)

While the Bishan Stadium has traditionally served as the main home ground for the Sailors, the Singapore Premier League club has utilised the Jalan Besar Stadium for their home matches in regional and the second-tier continental club competition.

All three of their ACL 2 group stage home matches were played at the Jalan Besar Stadium, where they secured wins against China’s Zhejiang FC and Port FC from Thailand, and suffered a defeat against Indonesia’s Persib Bandung.

In the knockout round, the Sailors comfortably cruised to a 7-2 aggregate win against Thailand’s Muangthong FC, winning 3-2 and 4-0 in the first and second leg, respectively.

Head coach Aleksandar Rankovic’s side were handed a lifeline in the quarter-final after their 6-1 loss to Sanfrecce Hiroshima (Japan) on March 5 was overturned as their opponents had fielded an ineligible player.

A 3-0 win was awarded to the Sailors, and they held their Japanese counterparts to a 1-1 draw in the return leg seven days later to seal a place in the semi-finals.

EARNING A SPOT IN THE ACL TWO FINAL

The Sailors delivered a commanding performance against Australia’s Sydney FC in the ACL Two East Region semi-final first leg tie at the Jalan Besar Stadium on April 9 to secure a 2-0 win, with a goal each from Bart Ramselaar and Lennart Thy.

Although the Sailors lost 1-0 in the second leg, their defence remained resolute and managed to fend off Sydney attacks, as the Singapore side secured a 2-1 aggregate victory to book their spot in the ACL Two final.

“We knew we were going to be under a lot of pressure. Sydney had to throw everything at us. But I think we did a really good job. They had their chances, but honestly, we had a few good ones of our own that could’ve killed the tie,” said head coach Rankovic after their match in Sydney, as quoted on the Sailors’ official website.

“What we’ve done is an unbelievable achievement for a Singaporean club. I’m still waiting for someone to wake me up — but honestly, I don’t want to be awake. I want to keep dreaming… and let’s hope we can go all the way.”

ACL 2 Semi-Final Second Leg: Lion City Sailors starting line-up against Sydney FC. (Photo credit: Lion City Sailors FC)

Sailors’ defender and former Sunderland captain Bailey Wright had expected the opponents to put up a fierce challenge to overturn the tie in the second leg.

“We knew we were going to be up against some real quality. We’ve had our moments of luck, but I believe you earn that through hard work, commitment, and preparation. As a defender, you relish games like these, where you have to fight for every ball and truly earn the result, no matter how difficult it is,” said Wright, who had previously played more than 100 games for Sunderland in England.

Sharjah FC, Sailors’ opponent in the ACL Two Final, staged a comeback against Al Taawoun (Saudi Arabia) in the West Region semi-finals, overturning a 1-0 first-leg deficit with a convincing 2-0 victory in the second leg to secure their spot in the May 18 final.

‘Cannot even shower in peace in the morning’: Girl says her 60 y/o father turns off the heater and lights while she showers because they are struggling financially

Beatrice Del Rosario
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‘Cannot even shower in peace in the morning’: Girl says her 60 y/o father turns off the heater and lights while she showers because they are struggling financially

Cannot even shower in peace in the morning
byu/EnvironmentalMine577 inaskSingapore

SINGAPORE: A 17-year-old girl took to social media on Tuesday (April 22) to vent her frustration over her family’s financial struggles and how these have disrupted daily life at home. In her post, she shared that, after she expressed a desire to start showering in the mornings instead of only at night, her 60-year-old father began turning off the water heater and lights while she was in the shower—all in the name of saving on electricity. His justification? He is the one paying the bills. The post got a response from people online. Many defended the cause of taking cold showers in the morning, while a few encouraged the young girl to find ways to work around the situation.

“Cannot even shower in peace in the morning.” This was the title of a post written by a teenager in a public forum. “To set the stage, recently, times have been tough, and my family is struggling financially,” she said. “My dad (60M) is sort of the sole breadwinner and has to feed five mouths.”

According to the teen, she usually only showers at night. However, debates about taking morning showers made her keen on taking a shower in the morning as well. “So lately I’ve been taking morning showers,” she shared. “But this means an extra set of clothes to be washed, the heater to be turned on and occasionally the lights when I have morning class.

“But with the electricity and water I’m using, it caused my dad to turn off the heater and lights while I’m showering and complain about how many clothes there are to wash now.”

Although she told her father about how cold the water gets, he “doesn’t care”, she claimed, as he is the one who pays the bills. “I get where he’s coming from,” she said. “But I also start to get cold and sick when I dry myself after showering. It’s affecting my physical health.”

She then turned to Singaporeans on the forum to ask for advice on how to get her father to stop complaining and turning off the hot water and the lights. “I just want to shower in the morning and not stink up the train,” she said.

Singaporeans respond with advice for cold showers

Surprisingly, many people who commented on her post shared the benefits of taking cold showers in the morning. According to Healthline, taking a cold shower comes with many benefits—from increasing endorphins to boosting metabolism and even aiding circulation. These factors can help the body have a stronger immune response.

Still, others urged her to understand her family situation and find alternatives to make things work. An older female took to the comments section to share that she was in the same situation in her teenage years. “If your family members are that particular, try alternatives to keep the peace,” she suggested. “To light up the toilet, you can turn on your phone flashlight and place it below a glass cup (or a see-through plastic cup) and place it somewhere in the toilet where it can’t get wet, it will be bright enough to shower…

“If you want to shower with warm water, get yourself a big bucket, boil water, and mix it with tap water, and get a smaller bucket with a longer handle to scoop the water out to shower. It’s just an extra 5-minute step to do in the morning. If there’s a will, there’s a way. Tell yourself you won’t be doing this forever, just temporarily, and be thankful you still have your father around.”

See also: ‘My dad has a gambling addiction, but my mother has to work to pay off his debts’ — 23 y/o daughter reveals her mental struggles

Featured image by Freepik/jcomp (for illustration purposes only)

Singapore financial services professionals see 25% bonus jump

Mary Alavanza
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Singapore financial services professionals see 25% bonus jump

SINGAPORE: Bonuses for financial services (FS) professionals in Singapore rose by 25% year-on-year (YoY), beating the bonus increases in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, which stood at 22%, according to the Compensation & Lifestyle Report from FS careers platform eFinancialCareers, which surveyed over 2,500 financial services professionals globally.

Bonus increases in the city-state also outpaced increases seen in Europe (19%) and North America (18%).

The UK recorded the highest bonus payouts overall, which rose 26% YoY, with average bonuses hitting US$148,961 (S$195,286), followed by North America (US$145,817), Europe (US$108,522), and APAC (US$48,880).

In APAC, Hong Kong led with a 40% YoY bonus increase, largely driven by senior-level payouts which recorded 102% increases. Meanwhile, in the city-state, the report noted that across all levels, bonuses remained less lucrative, with professionals seeing bonus increases of 25%. Directors and managing directors in the city-state only saw 35% and 12.8% bonus increases, respectively.

While bonuses rose, working hours stayed mostly the same at just a 0.6% increase. In fact, 13 out of 21 financial sectors reported fewer hours worked than the year before. Areas like investment banking, M&A, and private equity saw shorter working weeks but still recorded strong bonus growth.

Hedge funds vs private equity

Professionals working for hedge funds (48%) and private equity firms (46%) saw the biggest YoY bonus increases across all regions. Despite this, in absolute terms, not factoring in carried interest, bonuses in private equity were much lower than in hedge funds, with hedge fund staff getting an average of US$453,167, while those in private equity only received around US$81,415.

Hedge fund analysts reported a 133% rise in bonuses, while private equity analysts saw a slightly lower 111% increase. What’s striking is the gap between the average bonuses received by hedge fund managing directors and their private equity peers, with the former taking home US$1.8 million, while the latter only received around US$328,600.

Other sectors saw varied results, with Equity Capital Markets facing a 9% bonus cut and M&A bonuses rising by 42%.

Improved mental and physical health

The report also showed improvements in health. On average, respondents rated their mental health 6.9 out of 10 and their physical health 7.2 out of 10, compared to 6.0 and 6.5, respectively, last year.

The bank with the best overall health scores was Barclays, while BNP Paribas and SocGen scored the lowest.

However, the report found no direct correlation between working hours and health. For example, while BNP Paribas workers, who worked 58.63 hours per week, scored 5.8 for mental health and 7.2 for physical health, those at Boutique, working even longer (60.33 hours per week), reported the best mental health scores (7.8) and a physical health score of 7.5, with the second-highest overall well-being score (7.6).

Peter Healey, CEO of eFinancialCareers, said that despite the political and economic uncertainty in 2024, both in the UK and globally, this year’s bonus season was “more conservative”, but he noted that improved financial performances have directly translated into improved compensation.

He also noted that the data were collected before the US tariff announcements, so sentiment may have changed in the past two weeks.

He added, “What’s particularly encouraging to me is the improvement in mental and physical well-being. In a sector known for long hours and high stress, it’s heartening to see signs that professionals are managing to find better work-life balance while still securing considerable and competitive compensation.” /TISG 

Read also: UOB CEO’s pay drops 5.5% in 2024 despite record profit

Featured image by Depositphotos (for illustration purposes only)

Know the athletes who won the Laureus World Sports Awards

Aiah Bathan
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Know the athletes who won the Laureus World Sports Awards

The Laureus Awards ceremony was recently held in Madrid, and here are the athletes who were honoured for their exceptional performances in sports. 

Simone Biles was named Sportswoman of the Year, and the Swedish pole-vaulter Mondo Duplantis was honoured as the Sportsman of the Year.

American gymnast Biles earned this recognition after an incredible performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she made a powerful comeback. In the prestigious competition, she won gold medals in the team event, the all-around, and the vault, along with a silver medal in the floor exercise. This success came after her three-year hiatus, when she withdrew from the Tokyo Olympics to focus on her mental health. This is the fourth time she has received the Laureus award. She now has the same number of awards as her fellow American and tennis legend, Serena Williams. 

Biles shared, “I’m so happy to be here in Madrid and to receive my fourth Laureus Award… I won this Award for the first time in 2017, and Laureus has been a part of my story since then. There might be a little girl watching someone like me on television and deciding she can do it, too.” 

Meanwhile, Mondo Duplantis received the Laureus Sportsman of the Year for the first time after being nominated for the past three years. It was handed to him by last year’s winner, tennis star Novak Djokovic. 

Duplantis made history by being the second track-and-field athlete to win the award, following sprinting legend Usain Bolt. 

At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Duplantis won his second Olympic gold medal and broke his own world record for the ninth time. A month later, he broke the record again at the Silesia Diamond League event. 

Duplantis joked, “I am incredibly honoured to have won my first Laureus, this is the ultimate award that we athletes want to win. I know because this is the fourth time I have been nominated –and that proves it’s harder to win a Laureus than an Olympic gold medal.” 

Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade was also honoured with the Comeback of the Year award. She earned the award after making an incredible return to top-level competition at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she won a gold medal in the floor exercise and beat Simone Biles. 

Her journey as an athlete is inspiring because she battled through serious injuries that once threatened to end her career. Overcoming setbacks, her performance in Paris showed not only her talent but also her determination and resilience to keep doing what she is passionate about. 

Teenage football star Lamine Yamal won the Breakthrough of the Year award. The athlete played a key role in helping Spain win the European Championship last year. He is now the sixth footballer to win this award.

Retired tennis star Rafael Nadal received the Laureus Sporting Icon award for his legendary contribution to the sport. The French Open will also pay tribute to Nadal on the opening day of the tournament. 

Here are the athletes who won the Laureus World Sports Awards this year: 

Simone Biles – World Sportswoman of the Year 

Mondo Duplantis – World Sportsman of the Year 

Real Madrid – World Team of the Year 

Lamine Yamal – World Breakthrough of the Year 

Rebeca Andrade – World Comeback of the Year 

Jiang Yuyan – World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability 

Tom Pidcock – World Action Sportsperson of the Year 

Kick4Life – Laureus Sport for Good

Rafael Nadal – Laureus Sporting Icon 

Kelly Slater – Laureus Lifetime Achievement 

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