Liability
Table of Contents
Liability
As a small business owner, you might owe money to suppliers, staff members, and the government. In your accounting records, you must maintain records of the debts owed by your company. Mark your debts as liabilities to keep track of the money you owe.
Liabilities are past-due debts owed by your company to another company, group, vendor, worker, or government body. Debts are acquired via routine company operations.
What is a liability?
The amount of debt owed by a business to settle previous transactions is referred to as liabilities. This money may belong to the corporation rather than its lenders, banks, or other lenders or financial organisations. The balance statement lists these as credits in the order of payment terms.
Any business organisation’s liability is a crucial component and is frequently a reliable indicator of how well-off and financially stable a corporation is. It is essential because liabilities suggest that a business must eventually give another organisation financial benefits. Examples of liabilities include debtors, bank loans, and so forth.
Understanding liability
A liability is an obligation one party owes to another that hasn’t been met or paid for. In the field of accounting, a commitment is a financial liability. However, it is more particularly defined by past commercial dealings, occasions, sales, trades of commodities or services, or anything else that will provide income in the future. Current liabilities are considered short-term obligations, whereas non-current liabilities are long-term.
Liabilities are future financial sacrifices that a business must make for other entities as a result of previous occurrences or previous transactions. A company’s liabilities must be managed effectively to prevent a solvency crisis or, in the worst situation, bankruptcy. Liabilities can be classified as current, non-current, or contingent.
Types of liability

Liabilities are primarily categorised based on when they are due. The company’s ability to manage its financial obligations depends on the classification. They are as follows:
- Current liabilities
Current obligations are those with a one-year maturity date. These typically happen throughout regular business activities. Due to the short-term nature of these financial commitments, management should consider the company’s liquidity.
- Non-current liabilities
Obligations that are due after more than a year are referred to as non-current or long-term liabilities. It is crucial that short-term duties, such as short-term loans or the current element of long-term debt, are not included in the non-current liabilities.
- Contingent liabilities
Contingent liabilities are potential liabilities that come to pass in a fictitious incident. These might take place. As a result, only commitments with a larger than 50% likelihood of occurring are recorded in accounting records. Still unresolved liabilities include lawsuits, government inquiries, liquidated damages, and product warranties.
How liabilities work
When you purchase your company, you have two options for paying: cash from your checking account or a loan. Either way, borrowing creates a debt that must be repaid at some point, either in cash or by using other assets.
For instance, using a credit card to make purchases from suppliers is a type of borrowing that, unless paid off at the end of the month, creates a liability for your company. Similar penalties result from obtaining a bank overdraft, a business loan, or a mortgage on real estate used for business purposes. Corporate operations like paying staff and collecting sales tax from clients can also result in liabilities.
Your company’s balance sheet, a financial statement that depicts the state of the business after an accounting period, lists liabilities. The business’s assets, or what it owns, are displayed on the left, while its obligations and owners’ equity are displayed on the right. Typically, the liabilities are shown above the owners’ equity because they will be paid back if a company files for bankruptcy.
Example of liabilities
Examples of liabilities are:
- Defaulted loans
- Plans for paying for purchased equipment
- Supplier payments that are due
- Expenses required for goods or services obtained
- Accrued income (worker compensation not yet paid)
- Interest due on outstanding bonds or preferred shares.
- Unpaid fines or responsibilities to the law
- Unpaid pension contributions
- Client deposits
- Taxes owing
Frequently Asked Questions
Liabilities are a company’s financial obligations, while assets are a company’s resources. Equity is the owner’s investment in the company.
Liabilities and assets are always equal because an equal amount of assets offsets every company’s liability. For example, if a company owes US$1,000 in liabilities, it will have US$1,000 in assets to offset that debt. Equity is the difference between the two, representing the owner’s investment in the company.
In simple terms, liabilities are what a company owes, assets are what a company owns, and equity is the owner’s investment.
A contingent obligation is a duty or potential loss that might exist in the future depending on how a specific event turns out. Investigations that are still open, product warranties, and prospective lawsuits can all lead to contingent liability.
A company’s non-current obligations are those that it anticipates taking longer than current liabilities to pay off. Liabilities are divided into existing and non-current categories on the balance sheet. Non-current commitments are sometimes known as long-term liabilities.
Liabilities are reported on a company’s balance sheet. According to the accounting equation, the total number of penalties must match the difference between the total amount of assets and the total amount of equity. According to accepted accounting rules, liabilities must be declared.
While both assets and liabilities are important financial concepts, there is one key difference between the two: assets represent something of value that a company owns, while liabilities represent something that a company owes. This key difference is important to understand when evaluating a company’s financial position.
Assets are important because they can generate revenue or create value for the company. For example, a company might own a factory that it uses to produce goods. The factory is an asset because it can generate revenue for the company. Liabilities, on the other hand, are important because they represent a financial obligation that a company must pay. For example, a company might have a loan from a bank. The loan is a liability because the company must make payments to the bank.
Related Terms
- Cost of Equity
- Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR)
- Interest Coverage Ratio
- Industry Groups
- Income Statement
- Historical Volatility (HV)
- Embedded Options
- Dynamic Asset Allocation
- Depositary Receipts
- Deferment Payment Option
- Debt-to-Equity Ratio
- Financial Futures
- Contingent Capital
- Conduit Issuers
- Calendar Spread
- Cost of Equity
- Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR)
- Interest Coverage Ratio
- Industry Groups
- Income Statement
- Historical Volatility (HV)
- Embedded Options
- Dynamic Asset Allocation
- Depositary Receipts
- Deferment Payment Option
- Debt-to-Equity Ratio
- Financial Futures
- Contingent Capital
- Conduit Issuers
- Calendar Spread
- Devaluation
- Grading Certificates
- Distributable Net Income
- Cover Order
- Tracking Index
- Auction Rate Securities
- Arbitrage-Free Pricing
- Net Profits Interest
- Borrowing Limit
- Algorithmic Trading
- Corporate Action
- Spillover Effect
- Economic Forecasting
- Treynor Ratio
- Hammer Candlestick
- DuPont Analysis
- Net Profit Margin
- Law of One Price
- Annual Value
- Rollover option
- Financial Analysis
- Currency Hedging
- Lump sum payment
- Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
- Excess Equity
- Fiduciary Duty
- Bought-deal underwriting
- Anonymous Trading
- Fair Market Value
- Fixed Income Securities
- Redemption fee
- Acid Test Ratio
- Bid Ask price
- Finance Charge
- Futures
- Basis grades
- Short Covering
- Visible Supply
- Transferable notice
- Intangibles expenses
- Strong order book
- Fiat money
- Trailing Stops
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- Dow Theory
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- Subrogation
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- Strategic Alliance
- Probate Court
- Procurement
- Holding company
- Harmonic mean
- Income protection insurance
- Recession
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- Pump and dump
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- Debt to Asset Ratio
- Liquid Assets to Net Worth Ratio
- Liquidity Ratio
- Personal financial ratios
- T-bills
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- Operating expenses
- Demand elasticity
- Deferred compensation
- Conflict theory
- Acid-test ratio
- Withholding Tax
- Benchmark index
- Double Taxation Relief
- Debtor Risk
- Securitization
- Yield on Distribution
- Currency Swap
- Overcollateralization
- Efficient Frontier
- Listing Rules
- Green Shoe Options
- Accrued Interest
- Market Order
- Accrued Expenses
- Target Leverage Ratio
- Acceptance Credit
- Balloon Interest
- Abridged Prospectus
- Data Tagging
- Perpetuity
- Hybrid annuity
- Investor fallout
- Intermediated market
- Information-less trades
- Back Months
- Adjusted Futures Price
- Expected maturity date
- Excess spread
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- Actual market
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- Financial independence
- Annual report
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- Ageing schedule
- Global indices
- Folio number
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- Liquidity risk
- Quick Ratio
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- Sustainability
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- Vertical Financial Analysis
- Residual maturity
- Operating Margin
- Trust deed
- Profit and Loss Statement
- Junior Market
- Affinity fraud
- Base currency
- Working capital
- Individual Savings Account
- Redemption yield
- Net profit margin
- Fringe benefits
- Fiscal policy
- Escrow
- Externality
- Multi-level marketing
- Joint tenancy
- Liquidity coverage ratio
- Hurdle rate
- Kiddie tax
- Giffen Goods
- Keynesian economics
- EBITA
- Risk Tolerance
- Disbursement
- Bayes’ Theorem
- Amalgamation
- Adverse selection
- Contribution Margin
- Accounting Equation
- Value chain
- Gross Income
- Net present value
- Leverage ratio
- Inventory turnover
- Gross margin
- Collateral
- Being Bearish
- Being Bullish
- Commodity
- Exchange rate
- Basis point
- Inception date
- Riskometer
- Trigger Option
- Zeta model
- Racketeering
- Market Indexes
- Short Selling
- Quartile rank
- Defeasance
- Cut-off-time
- Business-to-Consumer
- Bankruptcy
- Acquisition
- Turnover Ratio
- Indexation
- Fiduciary responsibility
- Benchmark
- Pegging
- Illiquidity
- Backwardation
- Backup Withholding
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- Exchange privilege
- Asset allocation
- Maturity distribution
- Letter of Intent
- Emerging Markets
- Consensus Estimate
- Cash Settlement
- Cash Flow
- Capital Lease Obligations
- Book-to-Bill-Ratio
- Capital Gains or Losses
- Balance Sheet
- Capital Lease
Most Popular Terms
Other Terms
- Bond Convexity
- Compound Yield
- Brokerage Account
- Discretionary Accounts
- Industry Groups
- Growth Rate
- Green Bond Principles
- Gamma Scalping
- Funding Ratio
- Free-Float Methodology
- Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
- Floating Dividend Rate
- Flight to Quality
- Real Return
- Protective Put
- Perpetual Bond
- Option Adjusted Spread (OAS)
- Non-Diversifiable Risk
- Merger Arbitrage
- Liability-Driven Investment (LDI)
- Income Bonds
- Guaranteed Investment Contract (GIC)
- Flash Crash
- Equity Carve-Outs
- Cost Basis
- Deferred Annuity
- Cash-on-Cash Return
- Earning Surprise
- Bubble
- Beta Risk
- Bear Spread
- Asset Play
- Accrued Market Discount
- Ladder Strategy
- Junk Status
- Intrinsic Value of Stock
- Interest-Only Bonds (IO)
- Inflation Hedge
- Incremental Yield
- Industrial Bonds
- Holding Period Return
- Hedge Effectiveness
- Flat Yield Curve
- Fallen Angel
- Exotic Options
- Execution Risk
- Exchange-Traded Notes
- Event-Driven Strategy
- Eurodollar Bonds
- Enhanced Index Fund
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Singapore Budget 2026 Signals Strategic AI Pivot, Equity Boost
Fiscal Performance and Overview Singapore delivered a robust fiscal performance in FY2025, recording an overall surplus of S$15.1 billion, representing 1.9% of its GDP. This figure significantly exceeded the initial estimate of S$6.8 billion, primarily driven by higher-than-expected corporate and personal tax revenues totalling S$8 billion above projections. The strong performance occurred while expenditure and net investment returns remained within budgetary limits. For FY2026, the government projects a more moderate surplus of S$8.5 billion, equivalent to 1% of GDP. Strategic AI Investment Initiative The FY2026 budget marks a decisive strategic shift toward artificial intelligence development. This substantial investment encompasses research expenditure, tax deductions, and AI-related grants designed to transform four key economic sectors. The initiative includes establishing a National AI Council and expanding AI workforce training programs to address Singapore's structural challenges, including natural resource constraints, an aging population, and tight labour market conditions. Equity Market Enhancement Measures Singapore's commitment to strengthening its capital markets is evident through several significant funding allocations. The government announced a S$1.5 billion top-up for the Equity Development Program (EQDP), bringing total funding to S$6.5 billion, with the next batch of EQDP managers expected to be appointed by mid-2026. Additionally, a second S$1.5 billion Anchor Fund has been established specifically for pre-IPO financing to support high-quality public listings. The introduction of life-cycle funds will provide CPF contributors with enhanced equity exposure, further deepening retail participation in capital markets. Sector-Specific Impacts The budget's AI emphasis is expected to particularly benefit IT service providers and the data centre ecosystem, as increased AI adoption drives demand for computational infrastructure. Defence spending continues its upward trajectory with FY2026 allocation reaching S$24.9 billion, representing a 6.4% increase from the previous year's S$23.44 billion. The construction sector faces increased labour costs as foreign worker levies rise by S$100-150 monthly, while minimum wages increase to S$1,800 from S$1,600, with implementation scheduled for 2028. Frequently Asked Questions Q: What was Singapore's fiscal surplus performance in FY2025? A: Singapore achieved a fiscal surplus of S$15.1 billion (1.9% of GDP) in FY2025, more than double the estimated surplus of S$6.8 billion, primarily due to S$8 billion higher revenue from corporate and personal taxes. Q: How much is Singapore investing in AI development? A: The government is committing toward AI development through research spending, tax deductions, AI-related grants, transformation across four key sectors, establishing a National AI Council, and expanding AI workforce training. Q: What equity market initiatives were announced in Budget 2026? A: Key initiatives include a S$1.5 billion top-up for the EQDP (bringing total to S$6.5 billion), a S$1.5 billion Anchor Fund for pre-IPO financing, and life-cycle funds providing CPF contributors with greater equity exposure. Q: Which sectors are expected to benefit most from the AI focus? A: IT service providers and the data centre ecosystem are expected to be primary beneficiaries due to increased demand for computational infrastructure to support AI and token activity. Q: How much is defence spending increasing in FY2026? A: Defence spending is budgeted to increase 6.4% to S$24.9 billion in FY2026, following a 12.4% increase to S$23.44 billion in FY2025. Q: What changes are coming to foreign worker policies? A: From 2028, levies for basic-skilled workers in marine and process sectors will increase by S$100 and S$150 respectively, and minimum wages for full-time foreign workers will rise from S$1,600 to S$1,800 monthly. Q: What household support measures were announced? A: S$500 CDC vouchers will be distributed to 1.4 million Singaporean households in January 2027, along with S$200-S$400 cost-of-living payments for households with income below S$100,000. This article has been auto-generated using PhillipGPT. It is based on a report by a Phillip Securities Research analyst. Disclaimer These commentaries are intended for general circulation and do not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs of any person. Accordingly, no warranty whatsoever is given and no liability whatsoever is accepted for any loss arising whether directly or indirectly as a result of any person acting based on this information. You should seek advice from a financial adviser regarding the suitability of any investment product(s) mentioned herein, taking into account your specific investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs, before making a commitment to invest in such products. Opinions expressed in these commentaries are subject to change without notice. Investments are subject to investment risks including the possible loss of the principal amount invested. The value of units in any fund and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance figures as well as any projection or forecast used in these commentaries are not necessarily indicative of future or likely performance. Phillip Securities Pte Ltd (PSPL), its directors, connected persons or employees may from time to time have an interest in the financial instruments mentioned in these commentaries. The information contained in these commentaries has been obtained from public sources which PSPL has no reason to believe are unreliable and any analysis, forecasts, projections, expectations and opinions (collectively the “Research”) contained in these commentaries are based on such information and are expressions of belief only. PSPL has not verified this information and no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made that such information or Research is accurate, complete or verified or should be relied upon as such. Any such information or Research contained in these commentaries are subject to change, and PSPL shall not have any responsibility to maintain the information or Research made available or to supply any corrections, updates or releases in connection therewith. In no event will PSPL be liable for any special, indirect, incidental or consequential damages which may be incurred from the use of the information or Research made available, even if it has been advised of the possibility of such damages. The companies and their employees mentioned in these commentaries cannot be held liable for any errors, inaccuracies and/or omissions howsoever caused. Any opinion or advice herein is made on a general basis and is subject to change without notice. The information provided in these commentaries may contain optimistic statements regarding future events or future financial performance of countries, markets or companies. You must make your own financial assessment of the relevance, accuracy and adequacy of the information provided in these commentaries. Views and any strategies described in these commentaries may not be suitable for all investors. Opinions expressed herein may differ from the opinions expressed by other units of PSPL or its connected persons and associates. Any reference to or discussion of investment products or commodities in these commentaries is purely for illustrative purposes only and must not be construed as a recommendation, an offer or solicitation for the subscription, purchase or sale of the investment products or commodities mentioned. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.

DBS Group Holdings Ltd Upgraded to Accumulate Despite Earnings Decline
DBS Group Holdings Ltd, Singapore's largest bank, has demonstrated resilience in a challenging operating environment by maintaining its dividend policy despite facing earnings pressures. Financial Performance and Dividend Policy DBS reported adjusted earnings of S$2.4 billion for 4Q25, representing a slight shortfall against analyst estimates with full year FY25 earnings at 95% of full-year forecasts. Despite the earnings decline, the bank significantly increased its quarterly dividend per share by 35% year-on-year to 81 cents, comprising 66 cents ordinary dividend and 15 cents capital return dividend. The total FY25 dividend per share reached S$3.06, marking a substantial 38% increase from the previous year. Mixed Operational Results The bank faced headwinds in its core lending business, with net interest income declining 4% year-on-year despite achieving loan and deposit growth. This decline was attributed to net interest margins compressing by 22 basis points to 1.93%. However, these challenges were partially offset by strong performance in fee-generating businesses, particularly wealth management, which surged 24% year-on-year and drove overall fee income growth of 14%. Key Positives: Strategic Pivot Toward Fee Income The bank's strategic pivot toward fee income generation has proven effective in cushioning the impact of declining net interest income. Wealth management fees led this transformation, supported by assets under management rising to S$488 billion, representing 15% year-on-year growth. This growth was driven by net new money inflows of S$12 billion in 4Q25, demonstrating strong demand for investment products as depositors shift from fixed deposits to wealth products. Additionally, investment banking fees surged 45% year-on-year, benefiting from increased debt and equity capital market activity, which indicates a revival in capital market sentiment and further diversifies DBS's earnings drivers beyond pure interest rate sensitivity. Research Recommendation and Outlook Phillip Securities Research has upgraded DBS to Accumulate from Neutral, raising the target price to S$60.00 from the previous S$58.00. The upgrade reflects expectations that non-interest income will serve as the main growth driver, with heightened market volatility benefiting trading income and continued wealth management growth. The research firm prefers DBS among Singapore banks due to its continued capital return plans until FY27, fixed dividend per share policy, and high dividend payout ratio, offering greater stability compared to peers following floating payout ratios. Frequently Asked Questions Q: What was DBS's dividend policy for FY25? A: DBS raised its 4Q25 dividend per share by 35% year-on-year to 81 cents, comprising 66 cents ordinary dividend and 15 cents capital return dividend, bringing total FY25 dividend per share to S$3.06, up 38% year-on-year. Q: How did DBS's net interest income perform? A: Net interest income fell 4% year-on-year despite loan and deposit growth, as net interest margins declined 22 basis points year-on-year to 1.93%. Q: Which business segments showed strong growth? A: Wealth management fees surged 24% year-on-year, driving 14% growth in fee income. Investment banking fees also increased 45% year-on-year from increased debt and equity capital market activity. Q: What is Phillip Securities Research's recommendation and target price? A: Phillip Securities Research upgraded DBS to Accumulate from Neutral with a higher target price of S$60.00, up from the previous S$58.00. Q: How did assets under management perform? A: Assets under management rose to S$488 billion, representing 15% year-on-year growth, driven by net new money inflows of S$12 billion for 4Q25. Q: What is DBS's guidance for FY26? A: DBS maintained its FY26 guidance for net interest income to be slightly below 2025 levels, non-interest income growth in the high single digits, credit costs to normalize at 17-20 basis points, and profit after tax and minority interests below 2025 levels due to the lower interest rate environment. Q: What makes DBS attractive compared to other Singapore banks? A: Phillip Securities Research prefers DBS due to its continued capital return plans until FY27, fixed dividend per share policy, and high dividend payout ratio, which offer greater stability compared to peers that follow floating payout ratios tied to earnings performance. Q: What are the expected dividend yields? A: The expected dividend yields are 5.7% for FY26e and 6.1% for FY27e, supported by DBS's capital return dividend policy and step-up policy maintained until 3Q26. This article has been auto-generated using PhillipGPT. It is based on a report by a Phillip Securities Research analyst. Disclaimer These commentaries are intended for general circulation and do not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs of any person. Accordingly, no warranty whatsoever is given and no liability whatsoever is accepted for any loss arising whether directly or indirectly as a result of any person acting based on this information. You should seek advice from a financial adviser regarding the suitability of any investment product(s) mentioned herein, taking into account your specific investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs, before making a commitment to invest in such products. Opinions expressed in these commentaries are subject to change without notice. Investments are subject to investment risks including the possible loss of the principal amount invested. The value of units in any fund and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance figures as well as any projection or forecast used in these commentaries are not necessarily indicative of future or likely performance. Phillip Securities Pte Ltd (PSPL), its directors, connected persons or employees may from time to time have an interest in the financial instruments mentioned in these commentaries. The information contained in these commentaries has been obtained from public sources which PSPL has no reason to believe are unreliable and any analysis, forecasts, projections, expectations and opinions (collectively the “Research”) contained in these commentaries are based on such information and are expressions of belief only. PSPL has not verified this information and no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made that such information or Research is accurate, complete or verified or should be relied upon as such. Any such information or Research contained in these commentaries are subject to change, and PSPL shall not have any responsibility to maintain the information or Research made available or to supply any corrections, updates or releases in connection therewith. In no event will PSPL be liable for any special, indirect, incidental or consequential damages which may be incurred from the use of the information or Research made available, even if it has been advised of the possibility of such damages. The companies and their employees mentioned in these commentaries cannot be held liable for any errors, inaccuracies and/or omissions howsoever caused. Any opinion or advice herein is made on a general basis and is subject to change without notice. The information provided in these commentaries may contain optimistic statements regarding future events or future financial performance of countries, markets or companies. You must make your own financial assessment of the relevance, accuracy and adequacy of the information provided in these commentaries. Views and any strategies described in these commentaries may not be suitable for all investors. Opinions expressed herein may differ from the opinions expressed by other units of PSPL or its connected persons and associates. Any reference to or discussion of investment products or commodities in these commentaries is purely for illustrative purposes only and must not be construed as a recommendation, an offer or solicitation for the subscription, purchase or sale of the investment products or commodities mentioned. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.

Unveiling Opportunity: Exploring the Potential of European Equities
European markets have long been overshadowed by their U.S. counterparts, particularly the S&P 500, which commands global investor attention. However, this underappreciation masks the unique opportunities that European indices offer. Despite challenges such as geopolitical tensions and slower growth forecasts, European markets present compelling prospects for traders and investors. And importantly, 2025 was a reminder that “U.S. always leads” is not a permanent rule - major European benchmarks like the DAX outperformed the S&P 500 on the year, reinforcing the case for keeping Europe on the radar. To fully appreciate the potential of European equities, it’s essential to understand how to gain exposure to these markets, explore their key indices, and compare them to their U.S. counterparts like the S&P 500. Along the way, we’ll uncover why these indices deserve a place in your trading arsenal. Gaining Exposure to European Markets Through Indices One of the most efficient ways to access European equities broadly is through index trading. Unlike individual stocks, which require extensive research and carry higher idiosyncratic risk, indices offer diversified access to entire sectors or regions. For those interested in European markets, three key indices stand out: Euro Stoxx 50, CAC 40, and the DAX. These indices represent the largest and most liquid companies in their respective regions, making them ideal for traders seeking exposure to European equities. An Overview of Key European Indices Euro Stoxx 50: Often referred to as the "blue-chip" index of Europe, the Euro Stoxx 50 comprises the 50 largest and most liquid companies across the Eurozone. Key constituents include multinational giants like ASML Holding (semiconductors), LVMH (luxury goods), and SAP (software). This index serves as a barometer for the health of the Eurozone economy. CAC 40: Representing France’s top-performing companies, the CAC 40 tracks the performance of 40 leading firms listed on Euronext Paris. Notable constituents include LVMH, Airbus, and BNP Paribas. The index is heavily influenced by the French economy, with a strong focus on luxury goods, energy, and financial services. DAX: Germany’s flagship index, the DAX, comprises of the 40 largest companies traded on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. Heavyweights like Volkswagen, SAP, and Bayer dominate this index. As Europe’s largest economy, Germany’s industrial prowess heavily influences the DAX’s movements. How Do These Indices Compare to the S&P 500? Performance Year-over-Year (YoY) Over the past five years, the S&P 500 has often outperformed its European peers – particularly during U.S.-led tech-driven rallies. However, 2025 was a notable exception: European performance strengthened meaningfully, with Germany’s DAX and the Euro Stoxx 50 outperforming the S&P 500 on a full-year basis. According to latest data: S&P 500: The S&P 500 delivered a calendar-year 2025 total return of 17.88%.1 (For reference, S&P 500 price return in 2025 was 16.39%2 - the difference is dividends. Over a longer horizon, the S&P 500’s annualized total return over the last 10 years (2016-2025) works out to roughly ~14-15%3 per year (CAGR computed from yearly total returns). Euro Stoxx 50:The Eurozone’s Euro Stoxx 50 benchmark gained 22.1%4in 2025. CAC 40: France’s CAC 40 logged roughly a 10.4%5 gain in 2025, lagging other major European markets amid political turbulence and fiscal-debt concerns. DAX:Germany’s benchmark DAX rose 23.0%5 in 2025 - its best year since 2019, supported by policy support themes and a broader rotation into Europe. Source: tradingview.com Volatility Metrics Volatility is often best measured through implied volatility - the market’s priced-in expectation of how much an index may move in the near term. VIX is the benchmark for U.S. equities, derived from S&P 500 option prices. In Europe, the closest equivalent is VSTOXX, which reflects implied volatility on the Euro Stoxx 50, also sourced from the options market. Over the past five years, the most striking feature is high co-movement: major spikes and cooldowns broadly align, reflecting shared global “risk-on/risk-off” regimes. At the same time, the chart shows that volatility leadership rotates - there are stretches where U.S. implied volatility (VIX) prices higher than Europe, and periods where the gap narrows. In the chart below, the U.S. volatility series is represented by the VIX, while the European volatility series is represented using FVS1 (Eurex), a tradable VSTOXX futures contract. Source: tradingview.com Correlation Analysis Provided below are the correlations between the S&P 500 and the three European Indices (Euro Stoxx 50, CAC 40, and DAX) over 1-year and 5-year timeframes: Correlation is a statistical measure that describes how two stock indices move in relation to each other. It ranges from -1 to +1: +1: Perfect positive correlation (the two indices move in the same direction 100% of the time) 0: No correlation (the movements of the two indices are completely independent) -1: Perfect negative correlation (the two indices move in opposite directions 100% of the time) Leveraging Correlation Matrices for Strategic Trading Understanding correlation dynamics when trading global indices can unlock powerful strategies for risk management, trade timing, and identifying price divergences. Below are three key strategies traders can apply: 1. Pairs Trading: Profiting from Price Divergences Pairs trading involves taking simultaneous long and short positions in two correlated assets, betting that their relative price movements will revert to historical norms. The matrix highlights strong correlations between several European indices: Euro Stoxx 50 & CAC 40 (1-year: 0.95, 5-year: 0.96) Euro Stoxx 50 & DAX (1-year: 0.93, 5-year: 0.95) In these high-correlation pairs, significant price deviations can present trading opportunities. For example, if the Euro Stoxx 50 rallies while the CAC 40 lags, a trader might short the outperforming index and go long on the underperforming one, expecting the spread to close as correlation reverts prices to the mean. 2. Hedging Strategies: Mitigating Downside Risk Traders holding long positions in a particular index can hedge against potential downside risk by shorting a correlated index. The European indices have historically been highly correlated with each other: CAC 40 & DAX (1-year: 0.85, 5-year: 0.90) For instance, if a trader holds a long CAC 40 position but anticipates short-term volatility, shorting the DAX can offset potential losses, albeit imperfectly. 3. Expanding Entry Opportunities: Trading Low-Correlation Pairs Interestingly, lower correlations can also be advantageous, as they allow traders to capture independent price movements. When two indices have weak correlations, it increases the chance that both long and short trades can succeed independently, rather than offsetting each other: S&P 500 & DAX (1-year: 0.26, 5-year: 0.45) S&P 500 & Euro Stoxx 50 (1-year: 0.29, 5-year: 0.47) For example, a trader could go long on the S&P 500 and short the DAX, without the positions cancelling each other out. Success would depend more on each index’s individual price action, creating dual profit potential rather than a zero-sum outcome. Advantages of Trading European Indices Trading European indices offers several distinct advantages: 1. Active European Trading Hours European indices are most active during European trading hours (3:00 PM to 11:30 PM SGT), a period when US markets tend to be less volatile. This creates opportunities for traders to capitalise on price movements and news-driven events during these hours. 2. Leveraging Diverse Correlations for Strategic Flexibility The varied correlation levels between European indices and the S&P 500 provide traders with multiple strategic opportunities: high-correlation pairs (such as Euro Stoxx 50 & CAC 40) enable pairs trading and hedging strategies, helping traders mitigate risks by balancing long and short positions. low-correlation pairs (such as S&P 500 & FTSE MIB) allow traders to capture independent price movements, increasing the potential for profiting from both long and short positions simultaneously. 3. Increased Volatility The higher volatility in European indices, compared to the S&P 500, offers more frequent trading opportunities for those employing short-term strategies. Higher volatility means larger price swings, which can translate into greater profit potential for active traders who time their entries and exits effectively. Conclusion: Why European Indices Belong in Your Trading Arsenal Incorporating European indices into your trading strategy could enhance potential returns through increased volatility, opportunities arising from varying market correlations and exposure to distinct economic events happening in the European markets. Whether you’re capitalising on early-morning price action or executing pairs trades, understanding the intricacies and nuances of these European indices, traders can potentially unlock additional avenues for profit. Don't let the spotlight on US markets overshadow the untapped potential of European indices. Trade European Index CFDs on POEMS Unlock the potential of European equity markets with index CFDs on POEMS. Whether you're looking to diversify your portfolio, capitalise on market volatility, or hedge against US market movements, European index CFDs offer a dynamic way to trade. With POEMS, you can gain exposure to key European indices like the Euro Stoxx 50, CAC 40 and DAX through our European index CFDs—all with competitive trading conditions and a seamless trading experience. Learn more here Start trading European Index CFDs on POEMS today and explore new market opportunities. For enquiries, please email us at cfd@phillip.com.sg. References: [1] https://ycharts.com/indicators/sp_500_total_return_annual [2] https://www.slickcharts.com/sp500/returns [3] https://www.macrotrends.net/2526/sp-500-historical-annual-returns [4] https://stoxx.com/stoxx-dax-etfs-get-record-inflows-as-sentiment-on-european-equities-improves/ [5] https://www.reuters.com/markets/europe/european-shares-set-best-year-since-2021-2025-12-31/ Disclaimer These commentaries are intended for general circulation and do not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs of any person. Accordingly, no warranty whatsoever is given and no liability whatsoever is accepted for any loss arising whether directly or indirectly as a result of any person acting based on this information. 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Elite UK REIT Shows Strong Performance with Successful Lease Regearing
Company Overview Elite UK REIT is a real estate investment trust focused on UK commercial properties, with a significant portfolio concentration in assets leased to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The REIT manages a diversified property portfolio valued at £424.6 million, comprising large, medium, and smaller-sized commercial assets across the United Kingdom. Strong Financial Performance Driven by Strategic Initiatives Elite UK REIT delivered impressive results for the second half and full year 2025, with distribution per unit (DPU) reaching 1.49 pence for 2H25 and 3.03 pence for FY25, representing year-over-year growth of 1.4% and 5.6% respectively.The full-year DPU met Phillip Securities Research’s FY25 forecast, while the 2H25 contribution accounted for 49% of the projected total. The growth was primarily attributed to interest savings from a reduced cost of debt, which decreased from 4.9% in FY24 to 4.7% in FY25, alongside contributions from newly acquired assets. These factors contributed to a substantial 7.4% year-over-year increase in distributable income, reaching £18.3 million in FY25. Major Lease Regearing Success Addresses Key Risk The REIT achieved a significant milestone by successfully regearing approximately 70% of its DWP portfolio, representing £24.3 million in rent, well ahead of the 2028 lease expiry deadline. This strategic accomplishment increased the weighted average lease expiry (WALE) dramatically from 2.4 years to 7.2 years, with leases primarily regeared for longer tenors of 7 and 10 years. The regeared leases feature CPI-linked rent reviews scheduled for 2033, with compounded annual rent increases ranging between 1% and 5% and notably contain no lease break clauses. Additionally, the Peel Park asset received planning approval for data centre facility use, potentially unlocking significant divestment value. Investment Recommendation and Outlook Phillip Securities Research upgraded Elite UK REIT to BUY with a higher target price of S$0.41, increased from the previous S$0.39, based on a dividend discount model approach. The REIT offers an attractive FY26 dividend yield of approximately 8.9%, considerably higher than the broader S-REITs market distribution yield of around 6% in 2025. A potential upside catalyst includes a DPU-accretive divestment of Peel Park, which currently represents approximately 10% of the total portfolio value and stands as the largest asset by value. Key Takeaways Q: What drove Elite UK REIT's improved financial performance in FY25? A: The 5.6% year-over-year growth in FY25 DPU was driven by interest savings from a lower cost of debt (decreasing from 4.9% to 4.7%) and contributions from newly acquired assets, resulting in 7.4% growth in distributable income to £18.3 million. Q: How successful was the lease regearing with DWP? A: Elite successfully regeared around 70% of the DWP portfolio representing £24.3 million in rent, significantly ahead of the 2028 lease expiry. This increased WALE from 2.4 years to 7.2 years with leases regeared for 7 and 10-year tenors. Q: What is Phillip Securities Research's recommendation and target price? A: Phillip Securities Research upgraded Elite UK REIT to BUY with a target price of S$0.41, increased from the previous S$0.39, based on a dividend discount model approach. Q: How does Elite's dividend yield compare to the broader market? A: Elite offers an FY26 dividend yield of approximately 8.9%, which is considerably higher than the S-REITs market distribution yield of around 6% in 2025. Q: What are the key features of the regeared leases? A: The regeared leases have no break clauses, feature CPI-linked rent reviews in 2033 with compounded annual rent increases of 1-5% and include renewal options for DWP extending leases by five years for 2035 expiries and three years for earlier expiries. Q: What potential upside catalyst exists for the REIT? A: A potential DPU-accretive divestment of Peel Park, which represents approximately 10% of total portfolio value and is the largest asset by value, especially after receiving planning approval for data centre facility use. Q: How did the portfolio valuation perform? A: The latest portfolio valuation showed an uplift of approximately 2% year-over-year to £424.6 million, with 72% of large assets appreciating in value and 43% delivering double-digit valuation gains, offsetting declines in smaller assets. This article has been auto-generated using PhillipGPT. It is based on a report by a Phillip Securities Research analyst. Disclaimer These commentaries are intended for general circulation and do not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs of any person. Accordingly, no warranty whatsoever is given and no liability whatsoever is accepted for any loss arising whether directly or indirectly as a result of any person acting based on this information. You should seek advice from a financial adviser regarding the suitability of any investment product(s) mentioned herein, taking into account your specific investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs, before making a commitment to invest in such products. Opinions expressed in these commentaries are subject to change without notice. Investments are subject to investment risks including the possible loss of the principal amount invested. The value of units in any fund and the income from them may fall as well as rise. 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Alphabet Posts Strong Q4 Results with Record Cloud Growth
Company Overview Alphabet Inc., the parent company of Google, operates as a leading technology conglomerate with core business segments spanning search advertising, YouTube, and cloud computing services. The company's primary revenue drivers include Google Search, YouTube advertising, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP), positioning it as a dominant player in the digital advertising and cloud infrastructure markets. Q4 2025 Financial Performance Exceeds Expectations Alphabet reported impressive fourth-quarter 2025 results that surpassed analyst forecasts, with total revenue climbing 18% year-over-year to US$114 billion and net income surging 30% to US$34.5 billion. The robust performance was primarily driven by strong execution across both advertising and cloud segments, with full-year revenue and net income reaching 97% and 108% of forecasted levels, respectively. Core Business Segments Drive Growth The company's advertising business demonstrated remarkable resilience, with Google Search revenue posting its fastest growth in four years at 17% year-over-year to US$63 billion. This acceleration was fuelled by retail vertical strength and enhanced ad efficiency through Gemini 3 integration. YouTube advertising revenue maintained solid momentum with 9% growth to US$11.4 billion, supported by increased political advertising spending during the election period and continued expansion of Shorts and Living Room monetisation. Cloud Business Achieves Milestone Growth Google Cloud delivered exceptional results, recording its fastest revenue growth since 2021 with a 48% year-over-year increase to US$17.7 billion, establishing an annual run rate exceeding US$70 billion. This outstanding performance was underpinned by a doubled client base, significant large-scale customer commitments with billion-dollar deals surpassing the previous three years combined, and existing customers expanding usage by over 30% beyond initial contracts. Revenue from GenAI-based products experienced explosive growth of nearly 400% year-over-year. Research Recommendation and Outlook Phillip Securities Research downgraded Alphabet to an ACCUMULATE rating following recent price appreciation but raised the DCF target price to US$395 from US$340. The revised valuation reflects confidence in Alphabet's competitive positioning through continuous Gemini upgrades and AI integration capabilities. Looking ahead to fiscal 2026, analysts project advertising segment growth of approximately 16% year-over-year, while the cloud segment is expected to maintain strong momentum with anticipated 45% growth. Key Takeaways Q: What were Alphabet's key financial highlights for Q4 2025? A: Alphabet reported revenue of US$114 billion (up 18% YoY) and net income of US$34.5 billion (up 30% YoY), with performance exceeding expectations across both advertising and cloud segments. Q: How did Google's advertising business perform? A: Google Search revenue grew 17% YoY to US$63 billion, marking the fastest growth in four years, while YouTube advertising revenue increased 9% YoY to US$11.4 billion, driven by retail vertical strength and election-related spending. Q: What drove Google Cloud's exceptional performance? A: Cloud revenue surged 48% YoY to $17.7 billion, driven by a doubled client base, billion-dollar deals exceeding the previous three years combined, and existing customers expanding usage by over 30% beyond initial commitments. Q: How significant was GenAI revenue growth? A: Revenue from GenAI-based products grew nearly 400% year-over-year in Q4 2025, compared to 200% growth in the previous quarter, demonstrating strong monetisation of AI capabilities. Q: What is Phillip Securities Research's recommendation and target price? A: The firm downgraded Alphabet to ACCUMULATE due to recent price performance but raised the target price to US$395 from US$340, citing confidence in the company's AI integration and competitive positioning. Q: What are the growth projections for fiscal 2026? A: Analysts forecast advertising segment growth of approximately 16% year-over-year and cloud segment growth of 45% year-over-year for fiscal 2026. Q: What factors support the cloud business outlook? A: The cloud segment is supported by strong demand, Alphabet's ability to monetise its GenAI portfolio, expanding operating margins, and a cloud backlog that grew 55% sequentially to US$240 billion. This article has been auto-generated using PhillipGPT. It is based on a report by a Phillip Securities Research analyst. This article has been auto-generated using PhillipGPT. It is based on a report by a Phillip Securities Research analyst. Disclaimer These commentaries are intended for general circulation and do not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs of any person. Accordingly, no warranty whatsoever is given and no liability whatsoever is accepted for any loss arising whether directly or indirectly as a result of any person acting based on this information. You should seek advice from a financial adviser regarding the suitability of any investment product(s) mentioned herein, taking into account your specific investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs, before making a commitment to invest in such products. Opinions expressed in these commentaries are subject to change without notice. Investments are subject to investment risks including the possible loss of the principal amount invested. The value of units in any fund and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance figures as well as any projection or forecast used in these commentaries are not necessarily indicative of future or likely performance. Phillip Securities Pte Ltd (PSPL), its directors, connected persons or employees may from time to time have an interest in the financial instruments mentioned in these commentaries. The information contained in these commentaries has been obtained from public sources which PSPL has no reason to believe are unreliable and any analysis, forecasts, projections, expectations and opinions (collectively the “Research”) contained in these commentaries are based on such information and are expressions of belief only. PSPL has not verified this information and no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made that such information or Research is accurate, complete or verified or should be relied upon as such. Any such information or Research contained in these commentaries are subject to change, and PSPL shall not have any responsibility to maintain the information or Research made available or to supply any corrections, updates or releases in connection therewith. In no event will PSPL be liable for any special, indirect, incidental or consequential damages which may be incurred from the use of the information or Research made available, even if it has been advised of the possibility of such damages. The companies and their employees mentioned in these commentaries cannot be held liable for any errors, inaccuracies and/or omissions howsoever caused. Any opinion or advice herein is made on a general basis and is subject to change without notice. The information provided in these commentaries may contain optimistic statements regarding future events or future financial performance of countries, markets or companies. 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AMD Posts Strong Q4 Results on Clear GPU Roadmap, Rising CPU Demand
Company Overview Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (AMD) is a leading semiconductor company that designs and manufactures high-performance computing processors, graphics processing units (GPUs), and related technologies. The company serves multiple markets including data centres, personal computers, gaming, and artificial intelligence applications, competing directly with industry giants like Intel and Nvidia. Strong Financial Performance Drives Upgrade AMD's fourth quarter 2025 results exceeded expectations, with revenue meeting forecasts at 100% of projected levels while profit after tax and minority interest (PATMI) surpassed expectations at 112% of forecasts. This outperformance was primarily driven by robust sales of Instinct MI350 series GPUs and EPYC CPUs. The company's data centre segment emerged as the primary growth driver, with revenue accelerating 39% year-over-year to US$5.4 billion, representing 52% of total quarterly revenue compared to 47% in the previous quarter. Investment Merits and Future Outlook AMD's strategic positioning in the data center market appears particularly compelling. Management expressed confidence in achieving annual data center segment revenue growth exceeding 60% over the next three to five years, supported by strength in both Instinct GPU and EPYC CPU product roadmaps. The company's GPU development timeline shows clear progression, with MI400 series GPUs and Helios products scheduled to ramp in the second half of 2026, followed by MI500 series GPUs featuring advanced 2nm-process technology and HBM4E memory launching in 2027. Margin Expansion and Market Share Gains The higher proportion of data centre revenue drove significant margin expansion, with gross and net margins increasing 360 and 130 basis points year-over-year respectively. Data centre operating margins reached 32.6%, the highest level since the first quarter of 2022. AMD continued gaining server CPU market share from Intel, whose performance was constrained by supply issues. The client PC segment also maintained momentum with ten consecutive quarters of growth, achieving 34% year-over-year revenue increase to US$3.1 billion. Research Recommendation Based on these strong fundamentals and clear growth trajectory, Phillip Securities Research upgraded AMD to BUY from ACCUMULATE, maintaining a target price of US$280. The upgrade reflects confidence in AMD's competitive positioning and execution capabilities across both GPU and CPU product lines. Key Takeaways Q: What were AMD's key financial highlights for Q4 2025? A: AMD's Q4 2025 revenue met expectations at 100% of forecasts, while PATMI exceeded expectations at 112% of projections. Data center revenue grew 39% year-over-year to $5.4 billion, representing 52% of total quarterly revenue. Q: What is AMD's growth outlook for the data center segment? A: AMD expects to grow data center segment revenue by more than 60% annually over the next 3-5 years, driven by strength in its Instinct GPU and EPYC CPU roadmap. Q: What new GPU products does AMD have planned? A: AMD's GPU roadmap includes MI400 series GPUs and Helios ramping in the second half of 2026, followed by MI500 series GPUs with advanced 2nm-process technology and HBM4E memory launching in 2027. Q: How did AMD's margins perform in Q4 2025? A: Gross and net margins increased 360 and 130 basis points year-over-year respectively, driven by higher MI350 GPU sales and increased data center revenue mix. Data center operating margins reached 32.6%, the highest since Q1 2022. Q: What is Phillip Securities Research’s recommendation? A: Phillip Securities Research upgraded AMD to BUY from ACCUMULATE while maintaining the target price at US$280, reflecting confidence in the company's growth trajectory and competitive positioning. Q: How did AMD's client PC business perform? A: Client PC revenue rose 34% year-over-year to $3.1 billion, marking the tenth consecutive quarter of growth. Ryzen CPU sell-through grew by more than 40% year-over-year with major customer wins across multiple industries. Q: What contributed to AMD's market share gains? A: AMD gained server CPU market share from Intel, whose performance was constrained by supply issues. In the data center, hyperscalers like AWS and Google launched more than 230 new AMD instances compared to 100 instances in the previous year. Q: Were there any notable regional sales? A: Yes, AMD recorded US$390 million of MI308 sales to China, representing 4% of Q4 2025 revenue, which was previously not included in company guidance. This article has been auto-generated using PhillipGPT. It is based on a report by a Phillip Securities Research analyst. Disclaimer These commentaries are intended for general circulation and do not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs of any person. Accordingly, no warranty whatsoever is given and no liability whatsoever is accepted for any loss arising whether directly or indirectly as a result of any person acting based on this information. You should seek advice from a financial adviser regarding the suitability of any investment product(s) mentioned herein, taking into account your specific investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs, before making a commitment to invest in such products. Opinions expressed in these commentaries are subject to change without notice. Investments are subject to investment risks including the possible loss of the principal amount invested. The value of units in any fund and the income from them may fall as well as rise. 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First REIT Faces Currency Headwinds Despite Stable Operations
Financial Performance Overview First REIT (FIRT) reported its 2H25/FY25 distribution per unit (DPU) results of 1.04 and 2.17 Singapore cents representing declines of 10.3% and 8.1% year-on-year respectively. Theese figures were in line with market expectations, accounting for 48% and 100% of FY25 forecasts. The year-on-year decline was primarily attributed to the depreciation of the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) and Japanese Yen (JPY) against the Singapore Dollar, though this was partially mitigated by increased local-currency rental income and reduced finance costs. Strategic Developments and Portfolio Changes FIRT completed the divestment of its non-core Imperial Aryaduta Hotel & Country Club (IAHCC) on December 4, 2025. Following the redemption of S$33.3 million of 4.9817% subordinated securities in January 2026, FIRT eliminated all perpetual securities from its capital structure. Excluding the IAHCC divestment, portfolio valuations declined 6.2% year-on-year, primarily due to foreign exchange depreciation in IDR and JPY. Investment Recommendation and Outlook Phillip Securities Research maintains its ACCUMULATE rating for First REIT with a revised target price of S$0.29, down from the previous S$0.31. This adjustment reflects updated dividend discount model forecasts that account for weaker IDR and JPY currencies, as well as the IAHCC divestment impact. FY26 and FY27 DPU estimates have been reduced by 5% and 8% respectively to incorporate these factors. Business Fundamentals and Market Position First REIT continues to operate as a healthcare-focused real estate investment trust with assets primarily in Indonesia, Singapore, and Japan. The company continues to benefit from a base 4.5% rental escalation across its Indonesia portfolio, with three Indonesian hospitals now operating under performance-based rent structures. A strategic review regarding Siloam's potential acquisition of FIRT's Indonesian hospital assets remains ongoing without material updates. Financial Strength Indicators FIRT demonstrated stable capital management with its cost of debt declining by 50 basis points year-on-year to 4.5%. Gearing and interest coverage ratios remained healthy at 42.1% and 3.7x respectively. FIRT trades at an FY26 estimated DPU yield of 8.4% and is currently in discussions to extend and refinance S$260 million of loans maturing in 2026. Key Takeaways Q: What was First REIT's DPU performance for 2H25/FY25? A: First REIT reported 2H25/FY25 DPU of 1.04/2.17 Singapore cents, representing declines of 10.3% and 8.1% year-on-year respectively, primarily due to IDR and JPY depreciation against the SGD. Q: What is Phillip Securities Research's current recommendation and target price? A: Phillip Securities Research maintains an ACCUMULATE rating with a revised target price of S$0.29, reduced from the previous S$0.31 due to weaker currency forecasts and the IAHCC divestment. Q: What major asset divestment did First REIT complete recently? A: First REIT completed the divestment of the non-core Imperial Aryaduta Hotel & Country Club (IAHCC) on December 4, 2025. Q: How did different geographical segments perform in local currency terms? A: FY25 income from Indonesia and Singapore properties rose by 5.1% and 2.0% respectively in local currency terms, while Japan remained stable. Q: What are the key financial health indicators for First REIT? A: The REIT maintains healthy financials with gearing at 42.1%, interest coverage ratio at 3.7x, and cost of debt at 4.5% (down 50bps year-on-year). Q: What is the status of rental payments from MPU? A: Rentals continue to be owed by MPU, with S$6.9 million outstanding as of December 31, 2025. S$1.5 million was received in January 2026, reducing the outstanding amount to S$5.4 million. Q: How did portfolio valuations perform excluding the IAHCC divestment?< A: On a same-store basis, portfolio valuations declined 6.2% year-on-year, primarily due to foreign exchange headwinds, with the Indonesia portfolio rising 1.4% in local currency terms while Japan declined 0.7%. Q: What is First REIT's current dividend yield? A: First REIT trades at an FY26 estimated DPU yield of 8.4%. This article has been auto-generated using PhillipGPT. It is based on a report by a Phillip Securities Research analyst. Disclaimer These commentaries are intended for general circulation and do not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs of any person. Accordingly, no warranty whatsoever is given and no liability whatsoever is accepted for any loss arising whether directly or indirectly as a result of any person acting based on this information. 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Singapore Exchange Posts Strong Performance Despite Treasury Headwinds
Financial Results Exceed Expectations Singapore Exchange Limited (SGX) reported a solid first-half FY26 results, meeting analysts’ expectations with revenue and earnings reaching 51% and 50% of full‑year forecasts respectively. The exchange operator demonstrated resilience by achieving core operating revenue growth that successfully offset declining treasury income, highlighting the strength of its diversified business model. Core Business Segments Drive Growth SGX's performance was anchored by robust growth across its primary trading segments. The Fixed Income, Currencies and Commodities (FICC) division delivered impressive 14% year-on-year growth, primarily driven by continued expansion in commodity and currency derivatives volumes alongside higher over-the-counter foreign exchange revenue. The equities segment also contributed positively with 6% revenue growth, fueled by a surge in Securities Daily Average Value (SDAV) that compensated for lower equity derivatives volumes. However, treasury income presented headwinds, declining 14% year-on-year due to lower average yields on margin deposits as interest rates decreased. Despite this challenge, SGX maintained strong shareholder returns, increasing its interim quarterly dividend per share by 22% to 11 cents, bringing the first-half dividend to 21.75 cents, representing a 21% year-on-year increase. Investment Outlook and Strategic Positioning SGX operates as Singapore's primary securities and derivatives exchange, serving as a critical financial infrastructure provider in Asia. The company has established strong market positioning through its comprehensive trading, clearing, and settlement services across multiple asset classes. The exchange's strategic focus on digitalisation and platform development continues to generate operating leverage benefits. Currency and commodities trading revenue increased 18% year-on-year, with currency derivatives volumes rising 18% and commodity derivatives volumes surging 24%. The OTC FX business maintained stable growth with revenue up 8% and average daily volume reaching US$180 billion, representing a 32% increase. Looking ahead, SGX is posed to benefit from several tailwinds including Equity Market Development Programme inflows, potential trade policy uncertainty from the Trump administration, and the Federal Reserve's monetary easing cycle, all of which should support volume growth through 2026. Research Recommendation Phillip Securities Research maintains an ACCUMULATE recommendation with a revised target price of S$18.30, increased from the previous S$16.90. The target price reflects a 28x price-to-earnings ratio based on FY26 estimates, up from the previous 26x multiple, positioned at two standard deviations above the five-year mean valuation. Key Takeaways Q: What was SGX's dividend performance in the first half of FY26? A: SGX increased its interim quarterly dividend per share by 22% to 11 cents. The total first‑half dividend amounted to 21.75 cents, representing a 21% year‑on‑year increase. The company maintains guidance to raise dividends by 0.25 cents per quarter until FY28. Q: Which business segments drove SGX's revenue growth? A: FICC revenue grew 14% year-on-year led by commodity and currency derivatives volumes and higher OTC FX revenue, while equities revenue rose 6% from increased SDAV, partially offset by lower equity derivatives volumes. Q: What challenges did SGX face during the reporting period? A: Treasury income declined 14% year-on-year due to lower average yields on margin deposits as interest rates fell, creating headwinds for overall earnings momentum. Q: How did SGX's OTC FX business perform? A: OTC FX revenue increased 8% year-on-year with average daily volume rising 32% to US$180 billion. SGX maintains guidance that OTC FX will contribute mid-to-high single digits to EBITDA in the medium term. Q: What is Phillip Securities Research's recommendation for SGX? A: Phillip Securities Research maintains an ACCUMULATE recommendation with a target price of S$18.30, increased from S$16.90, based on 28x price-to-earnings ratio for FY26 estimates. Q: What factors are expected to support SGX's future performance? A: Expected drivers include Equity Market Development Programme inflows, Preisdent Trump’s administration trade policy uncertainty, the Fed's monetary easing cycle boosting volumes in 2026, and operating leverage from rising SDAV offsetting treasury headwinds. Q: How did currency and commodities trading perform? A: Revenue for these segments increased 18% year‑on‑year, with currency derivatives volumes up 18% and commodity derivatives volumes surging 24%. This article has been auto-generated using PhillipGPT. It is based on a report by a Phillip Securities Research analyst. Disclaimer These commentaries are intended for general circulation and do not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs of any person. Accordingly, no warranty whatsoever is given and no liability whatsoever is accepted for any loss arising whether directly or indirectly as a result of any person acting based on this information. You should seek advice from a financial adviser regarding the suitability of any investment product(s) mentioned herein, taking into account your specific investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs, before making a commitment to invest in such products. Opinions expressed in these commentaries are subject to change without notice. Investments are subject to investment risks including the possible loss of the principal amount invested. The value of units in any fund and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance figures as well as any projection or forecast used in these commentaries are not necessarily indicative of future or likely performance. Phillip Securities Pte Ltd (PSPL), its directors, connected persons or employees may from time to time have an interest in the financial instruments mentioned in these commentaries. The information contained in these commentaries has been obtained from public sources which PSPL has no reason to believe are unreliable and any analysis, forecasts, projections, expectations and opinions (collectively the “Research”) contained in these commentaries are based on such information and are expressions of belief only. PSPL has not verified this information and no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made that such information or Research is accurate, complete or verified or should be relied upon as such. Any such information or Research contained in these commentaries are subject to change, and PSPL shall not have any responsibility to maintain the information or Research made available or to supply any corrections, updates or releases in connection therewith. In no event will PSPL be liable for any special, indirect, incidental or consequential damages which may be incurred from the use of the information or Research made available, even if it has been advised of the possibility of such damages. The companies and their employees mentioned in these commentaries cannot be held liable for any errors, inaccuracies and/or omissions howsoever caused. Any opinion or advice herein is made on a general basis and is subject to change without notice. The information provided in these commentaries may contain optimistic statements regarding future events or future financial performance of countries, markets or companies. You must make your own financial assessment of the relevance, accuracy and adequacy of the information provided in these commentaries. Views and any strategies described in these commentaries may not be suitable for all investors. Opinions expressed herein may differ from the opinions expressed by other units of PSPL or its connected persons and associates. Any reference to or discussion of investment products or commodities in these commentaries is purely for illustrative purposes only and must not be construed as a recommendation, an offer or solicitation for the subscription, purchase or sale of the investment products or commodities mentioned. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.









