The Best High-Dividend SGX Stocks (8% p.a. & above)

The Singapore Exchange (SGX) stands as a pivotal player in the Asian financial landscape, offering a platform for trading a diverse range of securities, including equities, derivatives, and commodities.

For income-oriented investors, particularly retirees and working professionals, high-dividend stocks represent an attractive investment avenue.

These stocks not only provide regular income but also the potential for capital appreciation. This article will explore the best high-dividend SGX stocks for 2024, focusing on those with yields of 8% per annum and above.

Understanding Dividend Yield

Dividend yield is a critical metric for investors seeking income. It represents the annual dividend payment divided by the stock's current price, expressed as a percentage.

For instance, if a company pays an annual dividend of SGD 1 per share and its stock price is SGD 10, the dividend yield would be 1 / 10 x 100 = 10 %.

The significance of dividend yield lies in its ability to provide insight into how much cash flow an investor is receiving for each dollar invested in an equity position. Factors influencing dividend yields include:

• Company profitability: Higher profits can lead to increased dividends.
• Market conditions: Economic downturns can affect stock prices and yields.
• Dividend policy: Companies with a consistent history of paying dividends tend to have more stable yields.

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting High-Dividend Stocks

When evaluating high-dividend stocks, several key factors should be considered:

Financial Strength:

Assessing a company's financial health is vital. Look at metrics such as:

• Debt-to-equity ratio: A lower ratio indicates less risk.
• Cash flow: Strong cash flow supports sustainable dividends.

Dividend History:

A company's commitment to its shareholders can be gauged through its dividend payout history. Consistency in payments reflects operational stability and management's confidence in future earnings.

Dividend Growth Potential:

Evaluate future growth prospects by examining:

• Market trends
• Competitive advantages
• Historical dividend growth rates

Valuation:

Understanding whether a stock is undervalued or overvalued is crucial. Consider:

• Price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio: A lower P/E relative to peers may indicate an attractive entry point.
• Dividend yield: Compare it with industry averages to assess relative value.

Top High-Dividend SGX Stocks for 2024

Here are some of the best high-dividend stocks listed on the SGX for 2024:

Multi-Chem Limited (SGX:AWZ)

• Business Overview: Multi-Chem operates in IT product distribution and printed circuit boards.
• Dividend Yield: Approximately 9.57%.
• Historical Dividend Growth: The company has shown a consistent increase in dividends over the past few years, with a dividend growth of 33.67% in the past year.
• Key Drivers: A payout ratio of 53.41% indicates that dividends are well-supported by earnings.

Aztech Global (SGX:8AZ)

• Business Overview: Aztech Global is involved in the technology sector, providing various electronic solutions.
• Dividend Yield: Approximately 14.18%.
• Historical Dividend Growth: The company has increased its dividend by 33.33% over the past year, indicating a positive trend.
• Key Drivers: Its robust market position and innovative product lines contribute to its attractive yield.

BRC Asia Limited (SGX:BEC)

• Business Overview: BRC Asia specializes in prefabricated steel reinforcement solutions.
• Dividend Yield: Approximately 7.8%.
• Historical Dividend Growth: The company has maintained consistent dividend payouts, reflecting reliability.
• Key Drivers: Its strong market presence in construction materials supports steady income generation.

Samudera Shipping Line (SGX:S56)

• Business Overview: This company operates within the transportation sector, focusing on shipping services.
• Dividend Yield: Approximately 11.98%.
• Historical Dividend Growth: The company has maintained strong payouts, benefiting from increased demand in shipping logistics.
• Key Drivers: A growing global economy and increased trade activity bolster its revenue streams

First Real Estate Investment Trust (SGX:AW9U)

• Business Overview: As a REIT, First REIT invests primarily in healthcare-related properties across Asia.
• Dividend Yield: Approximately 10%.
• Historical Dividend Growth: The REIT has shown resilience in maintaining dividends even during economic downturns.
• Key Drivers: A diversified portfolio and long-term leases provide stability and predictability in cash flows.

Investing in High-Dividend Stocks: A Cautious Approach

While high-dividend stocks can offer attractive returns, it’s essential to adopt a cautious approach:

Diversification:

Spreading investments across different sectors reduces portfolio risk. This strategy helps mitigate losses from any single investment underperforming.

Risk Management:

Conduct thorough research before investing. Monitor companies' financial performance regularly to ensure they maintain their dividend commitments.

Long-Term Perspective:

Investing with a long-term horizon allows you to ride out market volatility and benefit from compounding returns over time. Avoid short-term trading strategies that may lead to unnecessary losses.

Selecting high-dividend stocks requires careful consideration of various factors, including financial health, historical performance, growth potential, and valuation metrics.

By conducting thorough research and possibly seeking professional advice, investors can build a diversified portfolio that aligns with their long-term financial goals.

Investing in high-dividend SGX stocks presents an opportunity not just for steady income but also for potential capital appreciation over time.

As you explore these investment options, remember that informed decisions are key to achieving financial success in retirement or during your career journey.

FAQs

1. What is a good dividend yield? A good dividend yield typically ranges from 4% to 6%. However, yields above 8% can be attractive but may come with higher risks.
2. How often do companies pay dividends? Most companies pay dividends quarterly; however, some may pay annually or semi-annually depending on their policies.
3. Are high-dividend stocks safe investments? While they can provide steady income, high-dividend stocks may carry risks related to market volatility and company performance. Always conduct due diligence before investing.