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Is it time to rethink cash and CDC handouts?

Felicia Tan
Felicia Tan • 3 min read
Is it time to rethink cash and CDC handouts?
With the government actively seeking to revitalise the stock market, including proposals for dual listings on Nasdaq and smaller board lot sizes, Budget 2026 is an opportune moment to consider this approach. Photo: Bloomberg
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As Singapore gears up for Budget 2026 on Feb 12, it is worth asking whether cash handouts and Community Development Council (CDC) vouchers are being used as effectively as intended.

Since its launch in 2021, Singaporeans have enjoyed CDC vouchers, initially meant to thank citizens for their solidarity during the Covid-19 pandemic. The vouchers were also introduced to support heartland businesses and hawkers who were affected by the pandemic.

The scheme has persisted to this day, and over the years, the vouchers have risen in quantum (not that we’re ungrateful). Every Singaporean household received $100 worth of vouchers in 2021 and 2022.

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