Top Reads of The Week 3/3/2024

Author

Richard @ The Asia Report
March 03, 2024

DBS, OCBC and UOB recently posted record full year earnings and dividends, lifted by elevated interest rates.

However, the operating environment for Singapore's largest lenders remains challenging.

Loan growth was lackluster as corporates and consumers stayed cautious amid economic uncertainty.

My thoughts have not changed significantly since my article in October 2023 which I have attached below.

I will provide a more in-depth update on my thoughts on the sector later this month.

Top Reads of The Week  

Time to Invest in Singapore Banks Stocks? (From October 2023)

Previous article I wrote in Oct 2023. I make the case that Singapore Banks Stocks are reasonably valued. With dividend yields of 5%+, they offer the potential for 10% annual returns down the road.

Singapore Property Giants' Profits Hit by High Interest Rates

Singapore's largest property developers, CapitaLand Investment and City Developments, reported sharp drops in earnings as rising interest rates cooled the housing market. Demand has stagnated amid global economic uncertainty.

Singapore Is Bracing for a Super-Aging Society

Singapore has one of the world's fastest aging populations, with over a fifth of citizens expected to be 65 or older by 2030. The city-state is ramping up elderly care infrastructure and getting citizens to plan better for old age.

Hong Kong’s Push to Lift Property Market Faces Uphill Battle

Hong Kong's property market is still struggling despite government measures to prop up demand. High interest rates, economic gloom, and capital outflows continue to dampen real estate activity.

Piano Sales Fall in China Amid Stock Rout, Real Estate Bust

Piano sales in China have plunged as rising unemployment and a property market downturn have made big-ticket luxuries unaffordable for many middle-class families. Manufacturers are struggling with excess inventory.

Alibaba pares brick-and-mortar retailing with eye on efficiency

Alibaba is scaling back its physical retail operations by closing dozens of Freshippo supermarkets. The move aims to focus resources on larger stores in prime locations, improving efficiency as competition intensifies.

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