Singapore's Straits Times Index rises 0.3% to 4,172.43 at open

Singapore's Straits Times Index rises 0.3% to 4,172.43 at open

The Straits Times Index (STI) opened at 4,172.43 on July 2, 2025, marking a 0.3% increase from the previous close. This performance follows a period of sustained growth, with the STI reaching an intraday high of 4,129.8 points on July 15, 2025, and delivering a total return of 24.3% in 2024, its best performance in a decade [1].

The STI, a benchmark of Singapore’s established listed companies, has historically offered higher dividend yields and lower volatility compared to regional bourses. Over the past 18 years, the STI maintained an average dividend yield of 3.77%, with yields generally ranging between 3% and 5% [1]. This positions the STI as a stable investment option for investors seeking income and growth.

The latest rise in the STI comes amid global market volatility, with Singapore’s equity market demonstrating resilience and relevance. The STI has consistently outperformed regional benchmarks, driven by the country’s robust banking, real estate, telecommunications, and industrial sectors [1].

The launch of the Amundi Singapore Straits Times, a unit-trust-based index fund tracking the STI, is expected to attract additional capital to the local equities market. This fund, available exclusively on the Endowus platform, complements efforts by the Equities Market Review Group to boost the local market, improve liquidity, and facilitate product offerings [1]. The collaboration between Amundi and Endowus leverages Amundi’s global investment expertise in ETFs and index management with Endowus’ digital-first platform.

Despite the recent underperformance of the NTT DC REIT, which fell below its offer price, analysts remain optimistic about Singapore’s stock market. The IPO of NTT DC REIT, while not meeting expectations, highlights the challenges faced by the market. However, the recent listing could signal a resurgence in IPO activity, potentially reviving Singapore’s stock market [3].

The STI’s performance reflects the broader economic stability and growth of Singapore, positioning it as a reliable benchmark for investors. As Singapore commemorates 60 years of independence and The Straits Times celebrates 180 years, the STI continues to be an integral part of the nation’s economic and market development [1].

References:
[1] https://www.straitstimes.com/business/companies-markets/amundi-launches-new-fund-in-spore-that-tracks-the-straits-times-index
[2] https://investorrelations.sgx.com/stock-information/historic-stock-lookup
[3] https://www.indexbox.io/blog/ntt-dc-reits-ipo-a-disappointing-debut-in-singapores-stock-market/