Get Smart: STI Hits A New High, What’s Next?

Market Overview - Singapore's Straits Times Index (SGX: ^STI) reached a new all-time high, crossing the 4,500 mark on November 7 [1] Investment Considerations - Investors are questioning whether it is too late to buy stocks like CapitaLand Integrated Commercial Trust (SGX: C38U) and Sheng Siong (SGX: OV8) after the market's strong performance [1] - The decision to sell stocks before retirement raises concerns about missing out on potential gains [1] - Individual financial situations vary, indicating that there is no universal solution for investment decisions [2] Dividend Stocks - Selling profitable dividend stocks can provide immediate cash but will eliminate the dividend income stream [3] - The importance of understanding personal financial goals is emphasized, as reliance on passive income from dividends can affect investment choices [4][9] Investment Strategy - The focus for some investors, like David Kuo, is on the dividends generated by stocks rather than the stock price itself [5] - Income investors prioritize the yield from their investments, such as a 4.8% yield from a REIT, over the current market price [6] - Reinvesting dividends is a strategy to increase future income for further investments [7] Market Timing and Expectations - There are inherent risks in buying stocks today, including the possibility of a market correction [8] - Selling stocks may provide temporary relief but can lead to new concerns about re-entering the market [8] - Financial goals should guide investment decisions, with options to take profits and invest in safer assets like fixed deposits if financial targets are met [10]