3 Common Myths About Singapore Blue-Chip Stocks

Core Insights - Blue-chip stocks are often perceived as safe investments, but this belief can lead to missed opportunities and unforeseen risks [1][2] Myth 1: Blue-Chips Are Always Safe and Risk-Free - Investors mistakenly believe that blue-chip stocks are immune to risks, but even established companies can face challenges [3] - Singtel's EBIT margin decreased from 32% in FY2015 to 19% in FY2021 due to competition and rising 5G costs, highlighting that blue-chip status does not guarantee stability [4] - CapitaLand Integrated Commercial Trust experienced pressure on unit prices despite high occupancy rates, demonstrating vulnerability to market changes [4] Myth 2: Blue-Chips Don't Deliver Growth, Only Stability - Contrary to the belief that blue-chips cannot grow, some companies continue to achieve significant growth [5] - ST Engineering reported a 7.2% revenue increase to S$5.9 billion and a nearly 20% rise in net profit to S$403 million in the first half of 2025 [6] - DBS Group's dividends increased nearly 15% annually from 2019 to 2024, showcasing the potential for growth among blue-chip companies [7] Myth 3: Blue-Chips Don't Need Monitoring - Continuous monitoring of blue-chip stocks is essential, as business conditions can change [8] - Mapletree Logistics Trust saw a 12.4% year-on-year decline in distribution per unit in Q1 FY25/26, despite previously being viewed as a reliable REIT [9] - Rising finance costs and underperforming portfolio segments can negatively impact cash flow and dividends, emphasizing the need for regular evaluation [10][11] Implications for Investors - Blue-chips should be treated as core holdings but require the same level of scrutiny as any other stock [13] - Investors should review fundamentals quarterly, compare dividend growth to earnings growth, and monitor competitive and economic conditions [14] - Identifying blue-chips that are still growing and rewarding shareholders can lead to valuable investment opportunities [15] Strategic Approach - Blue-chip status provides a strong foundation, but active monitoring and strategic position sizing are crucial for portfolio growth [16] - The combination of blue-chip stability with diligent oversight can enhance investment success [17]