Over-the-counter stocks

Over-the-counter stocks

Unlisted stocks are another name for over-the-counter (OTC) stocks. In contrast to stock exchanges such as the New York Stock Exchange or Nasdaq, they are often supplied by small businesses and exchanged by market makers. 

Bonds, stocks, and other financial instruments can be exchanged directly between two parties through the OTC (over-the-counter) market rather than on a public stock exchange like the NYSE or Nasdaq. A benefit of investing in OTC securities is that you can buy a successful stock early. 

What are OTC stocks? 

Over-the-counter (OTC) stocks are not traded on a formal exchange like the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). Instead, they are traded through a network of broker-dealers who directly negotiate with one another over the phone or electronically. 

Whether or not investing in OTC markets is right for you will come down to your investment goals and risk tolerance. If you are comfortable with a bit more risk and are looking for more flexibility in your investment strategies, OTC markets may be worth considering. However, traditional exchanges may be better if you prefer a more stable and regulated environment. 

Understanding OTC stocks 

OTC stocks often trade for less per share than corporations whose shares are listed on an exchange. Many OTC companies, sometimes referred to as penny stocks or micro-cap stocks, trade for less than 5 USD per share. The low cost may make them appealing to individual investors. These cheap shares, however, can be dangerous and extremely speculative. 

Several electronic platforms are used for OTC transactions. The US’ Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) ran one of the most well-known ones, the OTC Bulletin Board (OTCBB), until selling it to the investment bank Rodman & Renshaw. 

Types of OTC securities 

Over-the-counter stocks

There are three major types of over-the-counter (OTC) stocks in the United States:  

  • Pink sheets  

The Pink Sheets are stocks not listed on a major exchange, such as the Nasdaq or the New York Stock Exchange.  

  • OTCQB (Venture Market) 

The intermediate tier, the OTCQB, has a high proportion of emerging businesses and is sometimes referred to as the “venture market”. OTCQB companies are subject to monitoring and must disclose their financial information. 

  • Best market (OTCQX) 

This is the pickiest. Only 4% of the OTC equities listed on this exchange are traded here. It typically consists of international firms that list on significant overseas exchanges and certain US companies that want to someday list on the NYSE or the Nasdaq and have the highest reporting criteria and toughest scrutiny. 

How to buy OTC stocks? 

You can sell and purchase OTC stocks using most top online brokers because they trade similarly to most other equities. You must be aware of the corporation’s ticker symbol and also have sufficient funds in your brokerage account to purchase the necessary number of OTC shares. 

OTCs cannot be bought directly through the OTC Markets Group or the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board (OTCBB). Instead of using individual investors, market makers handle all transactions. 

It’s critical to remember that all investments have risk and that investors should carefully evaluate their investment objectives before investing. 

When finding a reputable broker, it is important to look for a member of FINRA. Finding a broker with experience trading OTC stocks is also important. 

How are OTC stocks different? 

The volume of publicly available corporate information is the primary distinction between an OTC and a listed stock. It can be challenging to discover information on OTC companies, which leaves investors more open to investing in fraud schemes and reduces the likelihood that reported market values are based on accurate and comprehensive data on the company. 

A company might choose to list its stock on an OTC exchange instead of a formal exchange because it may not meet the listing requirements of a formal exchange. For example, the NYSE requires a company with a minimum market capitalisation of 100 million USD and that it has been profitable for at least four of the past five years. 

Another reason a company might choose to list on an OTC exchange is that it may be a start-up or small company that cannot afford the high listing fees of a formal exchange. 

Generally speaking, OTC stocks are riskier than stocks listed on a formal exchange. This is because there is less information available about OTC stocks and because they are not subject to the same level of regulation.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can purchase and sell OTC stocks if you use a full-service brokerage in the real world. For the stock you want to purchase or sell, the broker must place an order with the market maker. The OTCBB allows for continuous monitoring of bid and ask prices. 

 

OTC stocks have lower volatility than their exchange-traded counterparts, lower trading volume, wider gaps between the bid and ask prices, and less information available to the general public. As a result, they are risky investments that are frequently speculative. 

 

Pros of OTC markets: 

  • On the plus side, OTC markets tend to be much less regulated than traditional exchanges.  
  • Additionally, OTC markets often have lower costs associated with trading since there are no listing fees or other exchange-related charges. 

Cons of OTC markets:  

  • One is that OTC markets can be more volatile and less liquid than traditional exchanges, making buying and selling securities more difficult.  
  • Additionally, OTC markets can be more susceptible to fraud and manipulation since regulatory bodies have less oversight. 

 

For instance, you may frequently locate foreign equities on the OTC markets, including those of several significant corporations. One suitable illustration is Nestle (OTC: NSRGY). The food and beverage corporation, which has its headquarters in Switzerland, principally trades on the SIX Swiss Exchange.  

However, it also offers its shares on the Euronext and OTC markets to make it easier for investors to purchase shares without convenient access to the Swiss stock exchange. 

 

A few things to remember when selling OTC stocks. 

  • First, it’s important to know the difference between OTC and exchange-traded stocks. OTC stocks are not traded on exchanges like the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) or the Nasdaq.  
  • Instead, they are traded through networks of brokers and dealers. This means that the prices of OTC stocks can be more volatile and less transparent than exchange-traded stocks. 
  • Second, OTC stocks are often less liquid than exchange-traded stocks. This means that it may be more difficult to find buyers for OTC stocks and that the prices of OTC stocks can be more volatile. 
  • Finally, OTC stocks are often penny stocks, which trade for less than 5 USD per share. Penny stocks are generally riskier than exchange-traded ones and are often subject to manipulation by insiders. 

For all these reasons, it’s important to be careful when selling OTC stocks. Make sure you understand the risks involved, and consult with a financial advisor if you have any questions. 

 

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    Raffles Medical Group Faces Challenging Operating Environment

    Published on Aug 4, 2026 97 

    Phillip Securities Research Maintains Neutral Stance with Reduced Target Price Raffles Medical Group Ltd, a Singapore-based healthcare services provider operating hospitals, medical centers, and transitional care facilities across Singapore and Greater China, is experiencing significant headwinds as lower-cost alternatives pressure its traditional business model. Phillip Securities Research has maintained its NEUTRAL recommendation while lowering the DCF target price to S$0.92 from the previous S$1.02. Disappointing Half-Year Performance The company's 1H26 results fell short of expectations, with revenue and adjusted profit after tax and minority interests (PATMI) representing only 44% and 40% of full-year estimates respectively. Adjusted PATMI declined 18% year-over-year to S$29 million, while revenue dropped 7% to S$353 million, primarily due to weakness in the transitional care facility segment. Healthcare services revenue contracted sharply by 17% year-over-year to S$112 million, driven by reduced patient load from TCF operations. The expansion of public hospital beds has significantly impacted TCF utilization rates, creating substantial operational challenges for this high-fixed-cost segment. Positive Developments Amid Challenges Despite the overall weak performance, Raffles Medical's hospital services demonstrated resilience with profit before tax growing 11% year-over-year to S$19.7 million in 1H26. This improvement stems from higher revenue intensity surgical cases and moderate price increases, indicating the company's ability to maintain margins in its core hospital operations through strategic pricing and case mix optimization. Significant Operational Headwinds The transitional care facility operations present the most significant drag on performance. While TCF contribution figures are not separately disclosed, the segment's high fixed costs in wages and rental expenses led to a dramatic 38% year-over-year plunge in earnings to S$15.6 million. The substantial fixed cost structure makes this segment particularly vulnerable to utilisation pressures from expanded public hospital capacity. Outlook and Strategic Challenges Phillip Securities Research has reduced FY26e adjusted PATMI estimates by 10% to S$65.4 million, reflecting 5% lower revenue projections. The challenging operating environment persists as patient volumes face pressure from cheaper alternatives in overseas markets, particularly Malaysia, and expanded public hospital options. Additionally, private insurers continue pressuring revenue intensity improvements, while China operations show growth potential despite ongoing regulatory uncertainties. [market_journal_faq] 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.

    Frasers Centrepoint Trust Maintains Strong Position Despite Minor Operational Adjustments

    Published on Aug 4, 2026 47 

    Frasers Centrepoint Trust (FCT), a prominent retail real estate investment trust focused on suburban shopping malls, continues to demonstrate resilience in its operational performance while actively recycling capital for future growth opportunities. The trust's portfolio centres on defensive sub-urban mall assets anchored by essential services, positioning it well to weather global economic uncertainties. Operational Performance Shows Stability In its third quarter 2026 business update, FCT reported a marginal decline in retail portfolio occupancy of 20 basis points quarter-over-quarter to 99.6%, primarily attributed to tenant churn as the trust optimised its tenant mix. Despite this slight adjustment, shopper traffic demonstrated positive momentum with a 2.4% year-over-year increase. However, tenants' sales growth remained modest at 0.2% year-over-year, reflecting the ongoing impact of tenancy churn and tenant refresh initiatives across the portfolio. Strategic Capital Recycling Initiatives FCT is executing a significant capital recycling strategy through the divestment of White Sands, its smallest mall, for S$467 million. This transaction represents an 8.4% premium to valuation and delivers a 4.6% exit yield. Simultaneously, the trust is expanding its development capabilities by acquiring a 50% stake in the retail component of the Bayshore Drive integrated development. This project encompasses approximately 170,000 square feet of retail net lettable area with a total cost of S$613 million on a 100% basis. Strong Financial Foundation Supports Growth The trust's financial position remains robust, with several positive indicators supporting its outlook. Portfolio occupancy maintained a healthy level at 99.6% in the third quarter, with year-to-date welcoming of 69 new-to-portfolio tenants enhancing the overall tenant mix quality. The financial structure has improved significantly, with the average all-in cost of debt declining 20 basis points quarter-over-quarter to 3% following the expiry of higher-cost interest rate swaps. Currently, 65.7% of borrowings are hedged to fixed rates, providing stability against interest rate fluctuations. Aggregate leverage stands at 40.4% but is projected to decrease to 36.5% upon completion of the White Sands divestment. The debt maturity profile remains favorable, with no debt maturing in FY26 and only 4% of borrowings requiring refinancing in FY27. Investment Outlook Phillip Securities Research maintains a BUY recommendation with an unchanged target price of S$2.70, citing no negatives in their assessment. The Bayshore development is expected to deliver a 5% yield on cost upon completion by end-2030, potentially increasing distributable income by approximately 3% upon stabilisation. 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. 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    Alphabet Inc. Achieves Record Cloud Growth Despite Free Cash Flow Pressure, Upgraded to BUY with $425 Target Price

    Published on Jul 31, 2026 175 

    Company Overview Alphabet Inc. (GOOGL) operates as a technology conglomerate primarily through its Google subsidiary, focusing on internet search, online advertising, cloud computing services, and artificial intelligence solutions. The company's core business segments include Search, YouTube advertising, and Google Cloud, serving both consumer and enterprise markets globally. Strong Financial Performance Driven by AI Integration Alphabet delivered robust second-quarter 2026 results, with adjusted profit after tax and minority interest growing 24% year-on-year to US$35 billion. Revenue increased 24% to US$119.8 billion, representing 45% of full-year forecasts for revenue and 42% for profit, reflecting typical seasonal patterns in the advertising segment. The company's performance was underpinned by resilient advertising growth of 14% year-on-year, enhanced by Gemini integration across Search platforms and improved monetisation of YouTube Shorts and connected television offerings. Additionally, the fastest cloud growth on record, surging 82% year-on-year, demonstrated strong enterprise demand for AI products and services. Record Cloud Segment Expansion Google Cloud emerged as the standout performer, with revenue accelerating to US$24.8 billion in the second quarter, compared to 32% growth in the prior year period. This exceptional growth was driven by robust demand for Enterprise AI products and services, with nearly 90% of Fortune 100 companies adopting Gemini Enterprise solutions. Operating margins in the Cloud segment expanded significantly to 35.6% from 20.7% in the previous year, reflecting improved operational leverage. The Cloud backlog grew 3.8 times year-on-year to US$514 billion, with management expecting approximately 50% recognition as revenue over the next 24 months. To address supply constraints, Alphabet plans to increase third-party compute capacity usage from the third quarter onwards. AI-Enhanced Advertising Performance Search revenue demonstrated strong momentum, increasing 17% year-on-year to US$63.3 billion, with retail and finance sectors providing the largest contributions. YouTube advertising revenue rose 13% to US$11.1 billion, supported by continued Shorts and connected TV growth. The FIFA World Cup 2026 provided additional tailwinds, driving record Search usage and YouTube's highest viewership as an official broadcast partner. AI Mode inference costs have declined to their lowest levels since the 2025 launch, indicating improving monetisation efficiency. Paid clicks grew 13% year-on-year, marking three consecutive quarters of double-digit growth and suggesting successful Gemini integration. Investment Outlook and Rating Phillip Securities Research upgraded Alphabet to a BUY rating whilst lowering the DCF target price to US$425 from US$450. The firm reduced FY26 revenue and profit forecasts by approximately 2% and 4% respectively, reflecting moderate margin expansion amid ongoing supply chain constraints. Despite temporary free cash flow pressure from heavy AI investments, analysts remain constructive on the long-term outlook. Alphabet's vertically integrated AI ecosystem, spanning custom silicon, optimised data centres, and high-performing Gemini models, should continue supporting robust growth across advertising and cloud businesses. Frequently Asked Questions [market_journal_faq]   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. 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    Keppel DC REIT Delivers Strong 11% DPU Growth on Acquisitions and Rising Rents, ACCUMULATE Rating with S$2.46 Target

    Published on Jul 31, 2026 87 

    Company Overview Keppel DC REIT is a Singapore-listed real estate investment trust that owns and operates a diversified portfolio of data centres across key markets. The REIT focuses on providing mission-critical infrastructure to support the growing digital economy, with properties spanning multiple geographical regions including Asia-Pacific and Europe. Strong Half-Year Performance Driven by Strategic Acquisitions Keppel DC REIT delivered impressive results in the first half of FY26, with distribution per unit (DPU) reaching 5.71 Singapore cents, representing an 11.3% year-on-year increase. This performance was in line with analyst expectations and constituted 52% of the full-year forecast. The growth was primarily attributed to the accretive acquisition of Tokyo Data Centre 3, combined with positive rental reversions and escalations across the portfolio. However, these gains were partially offset by the divestment of Kelsterbach Data Centre. Distribution income increased by 18.5% year-on-year, outpacing DPU growth due to an expanded unit base following equity fund raisings to finance recent acquisitions. Rental Market Dynamics and Portfolio Performance The REIT maintained healthy rental reversions at 10% during the first half, though second-quarter reversions moderated to approximately 5% compared to the exceptional 51% recorded in the first quarter. Looking ahead, rental reversions in the second half are expected to be higher, supported by the Gore Hill Data Centre lease renewal where rents more than doubled and will contribute from the third quarter onwards. Portfolio occupancy declined to 92.5% from 95.6% in the first quarter due to the expiry of the Cardiff Data Centre contract. Despite this decrease, the earnings impact should be limited as 95% of revenue-generating power capacity remains contracted. Financial Strength and Growth Prospects The REIT maintains a robust balance sheet with ample debt headroom for future acquisitions. Aggregate leverage improved by 110 basis points quarter-on-quarter to 34% following repayment of the consumption tax loan for Tokyo Data Centre 3, leaving approximately S$673 million of debt headroom against its 40% internal cap. The average cost of debt increased marginally by 10 basis points to 2.7%, with forecasted foreign-sourced distributions substantially hedged through the first half of FY27. Analysts maintain an ACCUMULATE rating with a raised target price of S$2.46, up from S$2.37, reflecting higher rental assumptions and continued NetCo Bonds contribution. Frequently Asked Questions [market_journal_faq]   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.

    OUE REIT Hospitality Segment Delivers Strong Performance, Maintains BUY Rating with S$0.45 Target Price

    Published on Jul 31, 2026 51 

    Company Overview OUE REIT is a Singapore-listed real estate investment trust with a diversified portfolio spanning hospitality and commercial properties. The REIT operates prominent hospitality assets including Hilton Singapore Orchard and Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, alongside commercial properties such as OUE Downtown and maintains a stake in Salesforce Tower. Strong First Half Performance Driven by Hospitality Sector OUE REIT delivered robust first-half 2026 results, with gross revenue and net property income rising 3.8% and 4.8% year-on-year to S$136.1 million and S$110.3 million respectively, representing 50% and 51% of full-year forecasts. Distribution per unit surged 28.6% year-on-year to 1.26 cents, exceeding expectations and forming 55% of the full-year forecast. The standout performer was the hospitality segment, which demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth momentum. Revenue increased 11.2% year-on-year to S$50.1 million, whilst net property income climbed 12.3% to S$45.1 million. The segment's revenue per available room rose 10.7% to S$258, driven by strategic commercial execution and operational improvements. Key Positive Drivers The hospitality segment's strong performance reflects proactive management initiatives and market positioning. Hilton Singapore Orchard achieved a 12.6% year-on-year RevPAR increase through successful corporate account acquisitions and higher occupancy rates. The property's positioning as a premium US corporate brand enabled it to capture rising American corporate demand, which increased approximately 4% year-on-year, offsetting softer tourist arrivals from Indonesia and China. Crowne Plaza Changi Airport contributed with a 7.5% year-on-year RevPAR improvement, benefiting from increased transit passenger volumes despite a 1.7% decline in international passenger numbers during the period. Financial costs provided additional support, declining 16.6% year-on-year to S$37.8 million. The average cost of debt improved from 4.2% to 3.6%, whilst interest coverage strengthened to 2.8 times from 2.6 times previously. Investment Outlook and Recommendation Phillip Securities Research maintains a BUY recommendation with an unchanged dividend discount model-based target price of S$0.45. The REIT trades at a forward dividend yield of 6.2% and price-to-net asset value of 0.57 times. Expected catalysts include accretive redeployment of divestment proceeds into Salesforce Tower, successful backfilling of Deloitte's 150,000 square feet space at OUE Downtown at market rents, and continued cost savings from refinancing S$400 million of debt maturities due in 2027. Frequently Asked Questions [market_journal_faq]   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.

    SIA Engineering Co. Maintains BUY Rating Despite Temporary Earnings Dip, S$4.06 Target Price Unchanged

    Published on Jul 31, 2026 22 

    Company Overview SIA Engineering Co. Ltd (SIAEC) is a leading aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) service provider operating across the Asia-Pacific region. The company provides comprehensive maintenance services including airframe and line maintenance, engine and component services, with operations spanning Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia, the Philippines, India, and recently China through strategic joint ventures. First Quarter Performance Analysis SIAEC reported a 6.1% year-on-year decline in first quarter FY27 profit after tax and minority interests to S$40.3 million, representing 22% of the full year estimate. The earnings decline was primarily attributed to a S$7 million reduction in share of profits from the engine and component segment, driven by higher investment costs associated with the SAESL joint venture. Associates and joint venture income fell 18% year-on-year to S$31 million, with the engine and component segment declining 19.2% due to elevated investment costs. However, this was partially offset by the airframe and line maintenance segment, which posted a 14.3% year-on-year increase driven by growth in flight handling volume, which rose 2.9% year-on-year. Core Business Resilience Evident Despite the headline revenue decline of 8.6% year-on-year to S$327.6 million, the underlying business fundamentals remain intact. The revenue drop was attributed to the scope and work content performed during the quarter, with lower materials-related work being conducted. Heavy checks performed decreased 13% to 20 checks, whilst managed fleet size for components revenue fell 9% to 151 aircraft, indicating reduced parts-intensive work during the period. Importantly, operating profit surged 159% due to lower material costs and reduced outsourced repair costs. Ex-materials revenue grew 4.2% year-on-year, demonstrating that direct labour-related revenue increased, with line maintenance operations handling 2.9% more flights year-on-year to 40,615 flights. Strategic Positioning and Outlook Phillip Securities Research maintains its BUY recommendation with an unchanged target price of S$4.06. The research house highlights SIAEC's strengthening position in the Indian MRO market through Air India partnerships, regional maintenance capacity expansion across Southeast Asia, and market entry into China via the Arport AME joint venture. These strategic initiatives position the group to capture growing APAC MRO demand. Investment costs at SAESL are expected to peak during the current financial year. The stock trades at a FY27 estimated price-to-earnings ratio of 19.9 times. Frequently Asked Questions [market_journal_faq]   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.

    Singapore REITs Poised for DPU Growth in First Half 2026 Amid Lower Interest Rates

    Published on Jul 31, 2026 29 

    Market Performance and Outlook Singapore Real Estate Investment Trusts (S-REITs) demonstrated modest resilience in June 2026, with the S-REITs Index gaining 0.4% following May's 1.6% decline. The sector is positioned for stronger performance ahead, with analysts expecting approximately 3% year-on-year distribution per unit (DPU) growth for the second quarter of 2026, driven by improved net property income from higher rents and reduced financing costs in a lower interest rate environment. Sector Dynamics and Interest Rate Environment The average cost of debt for S-REITs has declined by approximately 40 basis points year-on-year as of end-March 2026, with expectations of a further 10 basis points reduction throughout the remainder of the year. This improvement is supported by refinancing opportunities at lower Singapore Dollar benchmark rates, particularly benefiting REITs with substantial SGD-denominated debt portfolios. The 3-month Singapore Overnight Rate Average (SORA) has stabilised around 1.1%, remaining approximately 100 basis points below levels from a year ago. However, overseas interest rates have begun to edge higher amid expectations of renewed inflationary pressures from the ongoing Middle East conflict. The Reserve Bank of Australia, European Central Bank, and Bank of Japan have all raised policy rates this year, suggesting that borrowing costs for foreign currency-denominated debt will gradually increase, though existing interest rate hedges should cushion the impact. Sectoral Performance and Investment Strategy The diversified REIT sub-sector led performance in June with a 3% gain, while the overseas commercial REIT sub-sector declined 6.5%. Retail, office, and industrial REITs are expected to continue delivering mid- to high-single-digit rental reversions, though hospitality REITs face softer operating performance due to higher airfares and travel disruptions from Middle East conflicts. Analysts maintain an overweight stance on S-REITs whilst remaining selective, favouring REITs with robust balance sheets, defensive earnings profiles, and higher proportions of fixed-rate debt to limit interest rate volatility exposure. Retail S-REITs remain preferred, supported by healthy tenant sales and limited new supply, which should underpin mid- to high-single-digit rental reversions in 2026. Frequently Asked Questions [market_journal_faq]   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.

    Suntec REIT Shows Strong Singapore Performance with 24.8% DPU Growth, ACCUMULATE Rating and S$1.69 Target Price

    Published on Jul 31, 2026 18 

    Strong First Half Performance Driven by Singapore Assets Suntec REIT delivered robust first-half results with distributable per unit (DPU) of 3.936 Singapore cents, representing a substantial 24.8% year-on-year increase. This performance aligned with analyst expectations and constituted 52% of the full-year forecast. The growth was primarily attributed to an S$9.4 million (11.6%) reduction in finance costs and enhanced contributions from the Singapore office and retail portfolios. Company Overview Suntec REIT is a Singapore-based real estate investment trust that owns and manages a diversified portfolio of office, retail, and convention properties. The trust's flagship assets include Suntec City, Marina Bay Financial Centre properties, and overseas holdings including The Minster Building and 55 Currie Street. Singapore Portfolio Maintains Near-Full Occupancy The core Singapore operations demonstrated exceptional resilience, with both office and retail portfolios achieving near-full occupancy rates of 99.5%. The office portfolio recorded strong positive rental reversions of 10.1%, whilst the retail segment achieved even stronger rental growth of 10.7% during the first half. Analysts expect healthy rental reversions to continue, forecasting 5% for the office portfolio and 10% for retail in the full year. Key Positive Drivers The Singapore operations remain the primary earnings driver, with office occupancy rising 0.7 percentage points quarter-on-quarter to 99.5%. This strong performance is supported by limited core CBD supply and tight market vacancy, with demand coming from financial services and technology sectors. The retail segment benefited from major events including the F1 Singapore Grand Prix and BTS concert, which supported tenant sales growth of 7% in the first half. Tenant sales growth was primarily driven by food and beverage outlets, whilst discretionary retail remained resilient. Suntec Convention is expected to maintain stable performance with a healthy MICE pipeline providing support despite Middle East conflict uncertainties. Financial Position and Outlook Aggregate leverage increased to 43.0% from 41.6% following the redemption of S$150 million in perpetual securities. Phillip Securities Research maintains an ACCUMULATE recommendation with a raised target price of S$1.69, up from the previous S$1.63. The trust currently trades at an FY26e dividend yield of 5.45% and price-to-NAV of 0.72x. Frequently Asked Questions [market_journal_faq]   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.

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    This material is provided by Phillip Capital Management (S) Ltd (“PCM”) for general information only and does not constitute a recommendation, an offer to sell, or a solicitation of any offer to invest in any of the exchange-traded fund (“ETF”) or the unit trust (“Products”) mentioned herein. It does not have any regard to your specific investment objectives, financial situation and any of your particular needs. You should read the Prospectus and the accompanying Product Highlights Sheet (“PHS”) for key features, key risks and other important information of the Products and obtain advice from a financial adviser (“FA“) pursuant to a separate engagement before making a commitment to invest in the Products. In the event that you choose not to obtain advice from a FA, you should assess whether the Products are suitable for you before proceeding to invest. A copy of the Prospectus and PHS are available from PCM, any of its Participating Dealers (“PDs“) for the ETF, or any of its authorised distributors for the unit trust managed by PCM.  

    An ETF is not like a typical unit trust as the units of the ETF (the “Units“) are to be listed and traded like any share on the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (“SGX-ST”). Listing on the SGX-ST does not guarantee a liquid market for the Units which may be traded at prices above or below its NAV or may be suspended or delisted. Investors may buy or sell the Units on SGX-ST when it is listed. Investors cannot create or redeem Units directly with PCM and have no rights to request PCM to redeem or purchase their Units. Creation and redemption of Units are through PDs if investors are clients of the PDs, who have no obligation to agree to create or redeem Units on behalf of any investor and may impose terms and conditions in connection with such creation or redemption orders. Please refer to the Prospectus of the ETF for more details.  

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    The information provided herein may be obtained or compiled from public and/or third party sources that PCM has no reason to believe are unreliable. Any opinion or view herein is an expression of belief of the individual author or the indicated source (as applicable) only. PCM makes no representation or warranty that such information is accurate, complete, verified or should be relied upon as such. The information does not constitute, and should not be used as a substitute for tax, legal or investment advice.  

    The information herein are not for any person in any jurisdiction or country where such distribution or availability for use would contravene any applicable law or regulation or would subject PCM to any registration or licensing requirement in such jurisdiction or country. The Products is not offered to U.S. Persons. PhillipCapital Group of Companies, including PCM, their affiliates and/or their officers, directors and/or employees may own or have positions in the Products. Any member of the PhillipCapital Group of Companies may have acted upon or used the information, analyses and opinions herein before they have been published. 

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