An Update to our Distribution Rule for Unlogged Performance Allocation (UPA)
17 Apr 2026
Dear Member
We are writing to inform of an important update regarding the eligibility criteria for the Unlogged Performance Allocation (UPA). The UPA was initially created to address issues of missing or untimely program returns by music users. With the rise of artist-centric models and minimum rotation thresholds before royalty payouts, along with digitised program returns, we’ve refined the UPA to stay in sync with the current music industry.
This amendment to the Unlogged Performance Allocation (UPA) under the Society’s Distribution Rule No. 5.1(a) was thus proposed and approved at the 38th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 29 August 2025. The rationale for the amendment is to establish a fairer threshold in earned royalties before a member becomes eligible for the UPA.
The amended Distribution Rule is set out as follows:
For COMPASS members:
The UPA amount shall be fixed by the Council of Directors. It is currently set at $150 for each participating member.
A participating COMPASS member is defined as one who:
- Was admitted to COMPASS membership on or before the Distribution Year in question; and
- Has received at least $50 in performing royalties (excluding UPA) for the relevant period.
- Members who do not meet this $50 threshold in earned performing royalties will not be eligible for UPA in that distribution year.
UPA will not be allocated to a COMPASS member who fails to earn at least $50 cumulatively in performing royalties (excluding UPA) over three consecutive years, starting from the last year in which performing royalties were received. However, UPA eligibility will be reinstated in the year the member subsequently reaches the $50 cumulative threshold within a new three-year period.
The amended Distribution Rule will take effect in the upcoming distributions with effect from 01 October 2026.
Members who require clarifications may contact: membership@compass.org.sg.