3 Safer REITs That Could Raise Dividends in 2026

Core Insights - Singapore REITs are facing high borrowing costs but are expected to benefit from a recent interest rate cut by the US Federal Reserve, which may enhance growth prospects for well-managed REITs in 2026 [1][12] - Key factors for recovery include safety, quality, and steady cash flows, with some REITs positioned better than others to capitalize on these trends [1][12] Group 1: CapitaLand Integrated Commercial Trust (CICT) - CICT is Singapore's largest REIT with a portfolio valued at approximately S$26 billion, featuring high-end shopping malls and office buildings [3] - The REIT is expected to see a rise in distribution per unit (DPU) in 2026 due to the full-year contribution from the CapitaSpring acquisition and strong operating metrics, including a 97.2% occupancy rate as of Q3 2025 [4][5] - CICT maintains a leverage ratio of 39.2% and an interest coverage ratio of 3.5x, indicating effective debt management [4] Group 2: Frasers Centrepoint Trust (FCT) - FCT focuses on suburban retail malls, benefiting from essential spending and strong shopper footfall, with notable properties including NEX and Waterway Point [6] - The REIT is well-positioned for DPU growth in 2026, supported by increasing shopper traffic and a rental reversion rate of 7.8% for FY2025 [7] - FCT has a gearing ratio of 39.6% and 83.4% of its debts at fixed interest rates, which will help mitigate interest expenses following the recent rate cut [8] Group 3: Parkway Life REIT - Parkway Life REIT operates in the healthcare sector with a portfolio that includes hospitals in Singapore and nursing homes in Japan and France, featuring long-term master leases with annual rental increases of at least 1% [9] - The REIT is projected to increase its DPU by 27.6% year-on-year as it reaches Year 4 of its master lease agreement [10] - Parkway Life REIT has a low gearing ratio of 36% and a strong interest coverage ratio of 8.9 times, positioning it well for potential acquisitions [10]