According to a recent strategy report by CGS International, Singapore is emerging as a relatively safe investment destination within the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) market. The report reveals that Singapore has been ranked first in the ASEAN region, surpassing Malaysia in a comprehensive evaluation that includes earnings per share (EPS) growth potential, currency and political stability, valuation attractiveness, and dividend yield.

Despite volatility in regional markets, Singapore is expected to maintain steady earnings momentum and demonstrate resilience in key sectors such as capital goods and internet services. The report forecasts a 1-2% EPS growth for Singapore in 2025, a robust growth rate compared to neighboring markets facing economic slowdowns. However, analysts pointed out potential downside risks in the banking sector.

Analysts Lock Mun Yee and Lim Siew Khee stated, "Given the fragile macroeconomic conditions, we believe that Singapore banks, which account for 50% of MSCI Singapore's earnings, could experience potential earnings decline."

They cautioned that if loan growth slows to levels seen during the Global Financial Crisis and asset management fees decline by 20% year-on-year, there could be a 6-7% downward revision in the FY2025 EPS forecast. However, they added, "We can still expect about 1-2% market growth, driven by the growth in the capital goods and internet services sectors."

The valuation of the Singapore market is relatively attractive at 12.27 times its 2025 estimated earnings, with a dividend yield of 5.1% and a return on equity (ROE) of 12.1%.

The Straits Times Index has fallen by 10.4% this year, but this is a relatively better performance compared to neighboring countries such as Thailand (-19.1%) and Indonesia (-16.7%).

CGS International also highlighted Singapore-listed stocks trading below their historical lows, suggesting potential for a rebound. These include Genting Singapore, which is trading at its lowest valuation since COVID-19 despite a strong cash holding and the catalyst of new attraction openings in the second half of the year, and City Developments, where improved corporate governance and buyer interest are key catalysts. Other notable stocks mentioned include Keppel DC REIT, UOB, DBS, and SATS Ltd.

Despite these positive factors, macroeconomic risks remain. The Singapore government is reviewing its current 2025 GDP growth target of 1-3% in light of global economic uncertainties.

"The market is not entirely confident that the government has full control over future developments," CGS International warned, while adding that even if a potential recession materializes, "it may not be a surprising shock."

ASEAN Economic Outlook: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently projected a 4.9% economic growth rate for ASEAN in 2025, surpassing the global growth forecast of 3.2%. However, growth rates vary across countries depending on their economic situations and policies, and geopolitical risks and supply chain disruptions could pose potential threats.

Strengths of the Singapore Economy: Singapore serves as an economic hub in the ASEAN region, underpinned by a strong financial system, stable political environment, excellent infrastructure, and open trade policies. In particular, advanced manufacturing, financial services, and logistics are major drivers of economic growth.

Singapore Economy During the Global Financial Crisis: During the 2008 Global Financial Crisis, the Singapore economy was significantly impacted. However, it quickly recovered through swift and effective government stimulus measures and proactive structural reforms. At the time, slowing loan growth and falling asset prices negatively affected the profitability of the banking sector.

Straits Times Index (STI): The representative benchmark index of the Singapore stock market, comprehensively reflecting the stock prices of major blue-chip companies listed on the Singapore Exchange (SGX).

Singapore is considered an attractive investment destination within the ASEAN region based on its solid economic fundamentals and stable market environment. However, it is necessary to establish a prudent investment strategy while closely monitoring global macroeconomic uncertainties and potential risks in the banking sector.