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New Year COE Results: January 2026 1st Bidding – What It Means for Buyers and Sellers Ahead of CNY

The first Certificate of Entitlement (COE) bidding of 2026 has concluded, setting the tone for the year ahead. As expected, the New Year bidding saw notable movements across categories, influenced by year-end adjustments, fresh buyer demand, and early Chinese New Year (CNY) upgrading activity.


In this article, we compare the January 2026 1st bidding results with the December 2025 2nd bidding, analyse short-term trends, and discuss whether motorists should buy, sell, or wait, especially with CNY approaching.



COE Results Comparison: December 2025 vs January 2026

COE Category

Dec 2025 2nd Bidding

Jan 2026 1st Bidding

Movement

CAT A

$109,501

$102,009

▼ Down

CAT B

$115,102

$119,100

▲ Up

CAT C

$77,003

$75,503

▼ Down

CAT E

$119,000

$122,000

▲ Up

Key Takeaways from the January 2026 1st COE Bidding

1. CAT A Softens as Entry-Level Demand Cools

CAT A premiums fell sharply, dipping to $102,009, its lowest point since late 2025. This suggests:

  • Buyers adopted a wait-and-see approach after year-end

  • Some demand shifted towards higher categories for upgrades

  • Improved short-term affordability for mass-market car buyers

-> Good news for first-time buyers and small family car upgrades


2. CAT B and CAT E Rise on Upgrade and Dealer Demand

Despite the New Year lull, CAT B and CAT E increased, reflecting:

  • Continued demand for premium and larger vehicles

  • Dealers restocking inventory for Q1 and CNY

  • Buyers upgrading before festive season gatherings

-> Luxury, performance, and SUV segments remain resilient


3. CAT C Eases Slightly but Remains Firm

CAT C slipped marginally but continues to stay elevated due to:

  • Ongoing logistics and commercial transport demand

  • Stable business usage into early 2026


Buy or Sell? What Should Motorists Do Now?

For Buyers: Is This a Good Time?

Yes — selectively.

  • CAT A buyers may find this one of the better entry points ahead of CNY

  • Expect more competition in the next bidding, especially as festive demand picks up

  • Waiting too long may expose buyers to a rebound in February

If you’re upgrading for CNY family use, securing a COE now may reduce risk.


For Sellers: Is It Still a Good Time to Sell?

Absolutely.

Even though CAT A and CAT C dipped, used car prices remain strong due to:

  • Tight vehicle supply

  • Strong dealer demand for resale-ready units

  • Buyers rushing to secure cars before CNY

Sellers can still achieve premium valuations, especially for:

  • Cars registered 2021–2024

  • Popular Japanese and continental models

  • Well-maintained, low-mileage vehicles

At SGCARDEALS, sellers continue to receive top market prices through our wide dealer network.


CNY Upgrade Trends: Which COE Category Benefits Most?

With Chinese New Year approaching, we typically see:

  • CAT B & CAT E benefiting most from family upgrades

  • Increased demand for SUVs, MPVs, and luxury sedans

  • Dealers bidding more aggressively to secure inventory

If history is any indication, CAT B and CAT E may remain firm or rise further in the next bidding.


What to Expect in the Next COE Bidding (January 2026 2nd)

Here’s what we’re watching closely:

  • Potential rebound in CAT A as buyers re-enter the market

  • Continued strength in CAT B & E due to festive demand

  • Volatility as dealers and private buyers react to short-term dips

Expect more competition rather than sharp drops.


Tips to Stay Updated and Predict COE Trends

To stay ahead of COE movements:

  1. Track at least 3 consecutive bidding results, not just one

  2. Monitor dealer inventory and showroom promotions

  3. Watch festive seasons (CNY, mid-year, year-end)

  4. Get a professional car valuation to understand real market demand


Final Thoughts: Start 2026 with the Right Move

The January 2026 1st COE bidding reflects a market in transition — softer entry points for some, while upgrade demand remains strong.

  • Buyers: This could be a strategic window, especially before CNY

  • Sellers: Demand is still high — don’t miss the opportunity to lock in strong prices


Check your car valuation for FREE with SGCARDEALS today or explore our car listings to secure your next upgrade with confidence.


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