As global equity markets enter a new phase following a blockbuster 2025, investors are increasingly turning their attention to what lies ahead. In Singapore, optimism has been buoyed by a strong rebound in equities, with the benchmark Straits Times Index (STI) recording a gain of about 22.9% in 2025, supported by resilient banks, recovering tourism, and renewed interest in technology and infrastructure-related plays.
Against this backdrop, The Business Times, in its 5 January 2026 edition, published a feature identifying 10 Singapore-listed companies to watch in 2026. The list reflects a diverse mix of blue-chip stalwarts, turnaround candidates, REITs, and emerging technology names that could shape investor sentiment in the year ahead.
Let us take a look at these Singapore stocks to watch in 2026, the investment themes behind them, and why they matter in the current macroeconomic and market environment.
Market Outlook: Why 2026 Matters for Singapore Stocks
Before diving into individual stocks, it is worth understanding the broader context shaping Singapore equities in 2026.
Key Themes Influencing SGX in 2026
- Interest Rate Normalisation
After aggressive tightening cycles in major economies, investors are closely watching how interest rates stabilise or ease. This has direct implications for banks, REITs, and capital-intensive businesses. - Tourism and Consumption Recovery
Singapore continues to benefit from the rebound in regional travel, events, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) activities, supporting hospitality, gaming, and retail-linked assets. - Technology, AI, and Digital Infrastructure
Demand for data centres, AI-driven services, and advanced manufacturing is reshaping investment narratives across real estate, industrials, and tech companies. - Geopolitical and Defence Spending
Heightened global uncertainties have led to increased defence budgets, benefiting engineering and defence-related firms with strong order books. - Corporate Restructuring and Asset Recycling
Several Singapore-listed companies are unlocking value through divestments, restructurings, and strategic pivots, creating both opportunities and risks for investors.
The 10 stocks, listed on SGX, highlighted by The Business Times reflect these themes in different ways.
1. Singapore Post (SingPost)
Sector: Logistics, Postal Services
Singapore Post, or SingPost, enters 2026 amid a period of transition. Once viewed primarily as a stable dividend-paying postal operator, the company has been reshaping itself in response to declining traditional mail volumes and evolving logistics demands.
Why SingPost Is One of the Singapore Stocks to Watch in 2026
- Strategic Reset: SingPost has undertaken asset divestments and leadership changes to refocus on core operations.
- E-commerce Logistics Exposure: Growth in regional e-commerce continues to support demand for logistics services, even as competition remains intense.
- Turnaround Potential: Investors are watching closely to see whether management can stabilise earnings and restore confidence.
SingPost is less a defensive play and more a restructuring story, making it a stock to watch closely rather than a straightforward buy-and-hold.
2. United Overseas Bank (UOB)
Sector: Banking and Financial Services
United Overseas Bank is one of Singapore’s three major local banks and a cornerstone of the STI. In 2025, bank stocks benefited significantly from higher interest rates, but 2026 presents a more nuanced outlook.
Key Investment Considerations
- Net Interest Margins (NIMs): Potential moderation in interest rates could cap further expansion in margins.
- Loan Growth: Regional ASEAN exposure remains a strength, particularly in trade and corporate banking.
- Asset Quality: Investors are monitoring non-performing loans amid global economic uncertainty.
UOB remains a core blue-chip holding, appealing to income-focused investors, but upside in 2026 will likely depend on disciplined cost control and regional growth execution.
3. Genting Singapore
Sector: Leisure, Gaming, Tourism
Genting Singapore, operator of Resorts World Sentosa, is closely tied to Singapore’s tourism recovery story.
Why Genting Singapore Matters in 2026
- Tourist Arrivals: Continued recovery in international travel, particularly from China and Southeast Asia, supports visitation.
- Non-Gaming Revenue: Expansion of attractions, hotels, and entertainment offerings diversifies revenue streams.
- Regulatory Environment: Stable regulation remains a positive, though competition in the regional gaming landscape persists.
Genting Singapore stands out as a cyclical recovery play, offering exposure to consumer spending and tourism growth.
4. UltraGreen.ai
Sector: Data Centres, AI Infrastructure, Real Estate
UltraGreen.ai is among the more speculative but potentially high-growth names on the list. Positioned at the intersection of data centres, artificial intelligence, and sustainable infrastructure, it reflects rising investor interest in AI-linked assets.
Investment Thesis
- AI and Cloud Demand: Rapid growth in AI applications is driving demand for data storage and computing infrastructure.
- Real Estate Angle: As a data-centre-focused play, UltraGreen.ai offers indirect exposure to the digital economy.
- Risk Profile: As a smaller and newer listing, volatility and execution risk remain key considerations.
For investors seeking thematic exposure, UltraGreen.ai represents a high-risk, high-reward option among Singapore stocks to watch in 2026.
5. Wee Hur Holdings
Sector: Property Development, Education Assets
Wee Hur is a property developer that has been diversifying beyond traditional residential projects.
Why Wee Hur Is on the Radar
- Student Accommodation: Overseas student housing assets provide recurring income and geographical diversification.
- Education Ventures: Exposure to education-related developments adds a defensive element.
- Property Cycles: Earnings remain sensitive to property market conditions in Singapore and abroad.
Wee Hur appeals to investors looking for asset-backed value and diversification beyond core residential property.
6. Singtel
Sector: Telecommunications, Digital Services
Singtel remains Singapore’s largest telecommunications company and a key STI component.
What to Watch in 2026
- 5G and Digital Growth: Monetisation of 5G networks and enterprise digital solutions remains central to its strategy.
- Regional Associates: Stakes in regional telcos continue to contribute significantly to earnings.
- Capital Management: Asset recycling and dividends are key attractions for income investors.
Singtel is viewed as a defensive dividend play with optional growth, particularly for long-term investors.
7. ST Engineering
Sector: Engineering, Defence, Aerospace
ST Engineering has emerged as one of Singapore’s strongest performers in recent years, supported by global trends.
Investment Highlights
- Rising Defence Budgets: Increased geopolitical tensions have led to higher defence spending globally.
- Strong Order Book: Long-term contracts provide earnings visibility.
- Diversified Portfolio: Aerospace, smart city solutions, and defence reduce reliance on any single segment.
ST Engineering is widely regarded as a structural growth stock among Singapore stocks to watch in 2026.
8. Alpha Integrated REIT (A-REIT)
Sector: Industrial and Digital REIT
Alpha Integrated REIT is notable as Singapore’s first fully digital and industrial-focused REIT.
Why A-REIT Stands Out
- Digital Economy Exposure: Assets aligned with logistics, industrial, and digital infrastructure trends.
- Growth via Acquisitions: Potential for accretive acquisitions to expand its portfolio.
- Interest Rate Sensitivity: Like all REITs, performance is influenced by financing costs.
A-REIT offers investors exposure to next-generation industrial real estate, though rate movements remain a key risk.
9. MetaOptics
Sector: Semiconductor, Optics Technology
MetaOptics represents Singapore’s growing presence in advanced manufacturing and semiconductor-related technologies.
Investment Drivers
- Optics and Imaging Applications: Used in sensors, industrial equipment, and advanced electronics.
- Semiconductor Supply Chain: Benefiting from long-term demand for chips and related components.
- Innovation Potential: Success depends on R&D execution and commercialisation.
MetaOptics is a technology growth play, appealing to investors comfortable with higher volatility.
10. CapitaLand Integrated Commercial Trust (CICT)
Sector: REIT – Retail and Commercial
CapitaLand Integrated Commercial Trust is Singapore’s largest REIT by market capitalisation.
Why CICT Is a Key Stock to Watch in 2026
- Prime Asset Portfolio: Includes high-quality retail malls and office properties.
- Resilient Cash Flows: Strong tenant demand in core Singapore locations.
- Rate Environment: Potential easing of rates could support REIT valuations.
CICT remains a defensive cornerstone REIT, attractive for income-oriented portfolios.
Comparing the 10 Singapore Stocks to Watch in 2026
| Theme | Stocks |
|---|---|
| Defensive & Income | UOB, Singtel, CICT |
| Growth & Technology | UltraGreen.ai, MetaOptics |
| Cyclical Recovery | Genting Singapore |
| Structural Growth | ST Engineering |
| Turnaround / Value | SingPost |
| Property & Assets | Wee Hur, A-REIT |
This diversity underscores why these stocks, as highlighted by The Business Times, are collectively worth watching rather than viewed in isolation.
Final Thoughts: Navigating Singapore Stocks in 2026
The list of Singapore stocks to watch in 2026, as reported by The Business Times on 5 January 2026, reflects a market balancing opportunity and uncertainty. From blue-chip banks and REITs to AI infrastructure and semiconductor-related plays, investors are presented with a wide spectrum of risk-return profiles.
Rather than chasing short-term gains, 2026 may reward investors who:
- Understand sector-specific risks,
- Focus on balance sheet strength and cash flow,
- Align investments with long-term structural trends.
Investment Disclaimer
This article is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or trading advice. Investors should conduct their own due diligence, consider their individual financial objectives and risk tolerance, and consult licensed financial advisers before making any investment decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.