SINGAPORE — Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam will deliver this year’s Budget Statement at 3.30pm today (Feb 23). His speech will be carried live on Channel NewsAsia and on Channel NewsAsia’s Budget 2015 website.

This year’s Budget will address issues on retirement adequacy and ensuring good careers for the young and middle-aged.

The government is also expected to release details on how it will implement some of the recommendations by a committee tasked with reviewing the CPF system.

Another key element to give greater assurance to the elderly is the Silver Support scheme, announced at last year’s National Day Rally. It will see the Government paying an annual bonus to low-income elderly from the age of 65 to help them cope with their living expenses.

To expand opportunities for the broader middle-class, initiatives will be rolled out to encourage learning even after one leaves school.

Businesses can expect measures to help companies remain competitive and boost productivity, as the economy continues to restructure.

This year’s Budget comes as Singapore ushers in 50 years of Independence. Mr Tharman has said it will address both the needs of today and tomorrow. CHANNEL NEWSASIA