Singapore’s Straits Times Index rises 0.1% to 4,212 at open

Singapore’s Straits Times Index rises 0.1% to 4,212 at open

The Straits Times Index (STI) opened at 4,212 points on July 2, 2025, marking a 0.1% increase from the previous close. This gain comes amidst a mixed performance in regional markets, with the STI extending its upward trajectory [1].

The benchmark index, which includes 30 of Singapore's largest and most liquid companies, has been on a steady rise, reaching new highs in recent months. On July 21, the STI closed at 4,207.13, up 17.63 points or 0.4%, following the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) announcement of a S$5 billion investment fund initiative [1].

The broader market also saw a notable number of shares traded, with 2.1 billion shares worth S$1.4 billion changing hands. Fraser Logistics and Commercial Trust emerged as the top gainer, rising 3.5% or S$0.03 to close at S$0.88, while Wilmar International was the worst performer, falling 1% or S$0.03 to finish at S$3.02 [1].

Paul Chew, head of research at Phillip Securities, noted that the current rally could be just the first wave of re-rating for undervalued stocks. He believes that the actual deployment of the MAS S$5 billion Equity Market Development Programme could carry the market further [1].

Regional indices ended the day mixed, with the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI dipping 0.1%, the ASX 200 falling 1%, and the Hang Seng Index and Kospi both rising 0.7% [1].

Historically, the STI has shown resilience, with an average dividend yield of 3.77% over the past 18 years. The index has also offered relatively lower volatility compared to global equity benchmarks, driven by Singapore's robust sectors such as banking, real estate, telecommunications, and industrial [3].

The recent launch of the Amundi Singapore Straits Times unit-trust-based index fund, which tracks the STI, is expected to attract additional capital to benefit local enterprises [3]. This fund joins existing ETFs like the SPDR Straits Times Index ETF and the Nikko AM Singapore STI ETF, which have seen significant growth in assets under management [3].

In summary, the STI's performance on July 2, 2025, reflects a continuation of its upward trend, supported by positive market developments and investor confidence. The index's resilience and growth potential make it an attractive option for investors seeking stable income and long-term growth [3].

References:
[1] https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/singapore-shares-rise-amid-mixed-regional-showing-sti-0-4
[2] https://tradingeconomics.com/singapore/stock-market
[3] https://www.straitstimes.com/business/companies-markets/amundi-launches-new-fund-in-spore-that-tracks-the-straits-times-index