Mapletree, SGX, OCBC, and Sembcorp increase dividends

In the midst of the ongoing earnings season, investors are closely watching the performance of blue-chip companies. Known for their stability and ability to weather various economic conditions, these industry leaders are particularly appealing to income-seeking investors due to their consistent dividend payouts.

Recent financial reports have revealed that four prominent blue-chip stocks have not only maintained their dividends but have also increased them, signaling strength and confidence in their business outlook.

Let’s take a closer look at these companies and their recent performance:

1. Mapletree Industrial Trust (SGX: ME8U)

Overview

Mapletree Industrial Trust (MIT) is an industrial REIT with a diverse portfolio of properties in the US, Singapore, and Japan.

Key Financial Highlights (Q1 FY2025)

Metric Result Year-on-Year Change
Gross Revenue S$175.3 million ↑ 2.7%
Net Property Income S$132.5 million ↑ 1.3%
Distribution per Unit (DPU) S$0.0343 ↑ 1.2%

Additional Insights

  • Portfolio occupancy rate improved to 91.9%
  • Positive rental reversion of 9.2% for renewal leases

2. Singapore Exchange Limited (SGX: S68)

Overview

Singapore Exchange Limited (SGX) is Singapore’s sole stock exchange operator.

Key Financial Highlights (FY2024)

Metric Result Year-on-Year Change
Revenue S$1.2 billion ↑ 3.1%
Net Profit S$597.9 million ↑ 4.7%
Quarterly Dividend S$0.09 ↑ from S$0.085
Annualized Dividend S$0.36 ↑ from S$0.34

Additional Insights

  • Strong performance in Currencies and Commodities division with 22.3% revenue growth

3. OCBC Ltd (SGX: O39)

Overview

OCBC is Singapore’s second-largest bank, offering comprehensive banking, insurance, and investment services.

Key Financial Highlights (1H 2024)

Metric Result Year-on-Year Change
Net Interest Income S$4.9 billion ↑ 3%
Total Income S$7.3 billion ↑ 7%
Net Profit S$3.9 billion ↑ 9%
Interim Dividend S$0.44 ↑ 10% from S$0.40

Additional Insights

  • Wealth management income grew 14% year-on-year to S$2.5 billion

4. Sembcorp Industries Ltd (SGX: U96)

Overview

Sembcorp Industries is an energy and urban solutions provider with a balanced energy portfolio across 10 countries.

Key Financial Highlights (1H 2024)

Metric Result Year-on-Year Change
Revenue S$3.2 billion ↓ 12%
Net Profit S$540 million ↑ 2%
Interim Dividend S$0.06 ↑ from S$0.05

Additional Insights

  • Renewable energy capacity grew to 14.4 GW as of June 2024
  • Ambitious targets set for urban development division by 2028

These dividend increases demonstrate the financial strength and positive outlook of these blue-chip companies, making them attractive options for income-focused investors. As the earnings season progresses, market watchers will continue to monitor these and other blue-chip stocks for signs of sustained growth and reliable income streams.

Investors are encouraged to conduct thorough research and consider their individual financial goals before making investment decisions based on this information.