Should I buy Singapore Press Holdings stock in 2025?
Is Singapore Press Holdings stock a buy right now?
For investors looking to gain exposure to the former Singapore Press Holdings (SPH) asset base, Paragon REIT stands as the primary, publicly traded representative of those high-quality real estate investments. As of May 2025, Paragon REIT units are trading around S$0.975 with an average daily trading volume exceeding 7.8 million, signaling robust liquidity and sustained interest from the local investor community. The REIT’s performance has remained resilient through a dynamic year: the property portfolio, benefiting from nearly full occupancy in its flagship Singapore malls and solid results in Australia, recorded a 5% year-on-year increase in net property income. Notably, developments such as the recent privatization offer at S$0.98 per unit and the strategic divestment of certain assets have kept the stock in focus without introducing major instability. Market sentiment is constructive, fuelled by the REIT’s strong fundamentals and its reputation for delivering stable dividend yields—attributes especially prized in the Singapore context. While the broader real estate sector faces challenges, Paragon REIT’s premier locations confer a competitive advantage. Based on the consensus of over 32 national and international banks, the current target price is S$1.27 per unit, reflecting confidence in the REIT’s capacity to generate enduring value.
- ✅Occupancy rates consistently above 97.5% across core properties, with Singapore at 99.6%.
- ✅Stable and regular dividend payouts, highlighted by S$0.0218 recent payment.
- ✅Portfolio includes prime assets in high-demand retail locations in Singapore and Australia.
- ✅Revenue and net property income have shown steady growth over the past year.
- ✅Conservative gearing of 35.3% enables prudent capital management.
- ❌Potential corporate actions, such as privatizations, may add uncertainty to medium-term visibility.
- ❌Concentration in retail property exposes returns to broader consumer sentiment shifts.
- ✅Occupancy rates consistently above 97.5% across core properties, with Singapore at 99.6%.
- ✅Stable and regular dividend payouts, highlighted by S$0.0218 recent payment.
- ✅Portfolio includes prime assets in high-demand retail locations in Singapore and Australia.
- ✅Revenue and net property income have shown steady growth over the past year.
- ✅Conservative gearing of 35.3% enables prudent capital management.
Is Singapore Press Holdings stock a buy right now?
For investors looking to gain exposure to the former Singapore Press Holdings (SPH) asset base, Paragon REIT stands as the primary, publicly traded representative of those high-quality real estate investments. As of May 2025, Paragon REIT units are trading around S$0.975 with an average daily trading volume exceeding 7.8 million, signaling robust liquidity and sustained interest from the local investor community. The REIT’s performance has remained resilient through a dynamic year: the property portfolio, benefiting from nearly full occupancy in its flagship Singapore malls and solid results in Australia, recorded a 5% year-on-year increase in net property income. Notably, developments such as the recent privatization offer at S$0.98 per unit and the strategic divestment of certain assets have kept the stock in focus without introducing major instability. Market sentiment is constructive, fuelled by the REIT’s strong fundamentals and its reputation for delivering stable dividend yields—attributes especially prized in the Singapore context. While the broader real estate sector faces challenges, Paragon REIT’s premier locations confer a competitive advantage. Based on the consensus of over 32 national and international banks, the current target price is S$1.27 per unit, reflecting confidence in the REIT’s capacity to generate enduring value.
- ✅Occupancy rates consistently above 97.5% across core properties, with Singapore at 99.6%.
- ✅Stable and regular dividend payouts, highlighted by S$0.0218 recent payment.
- ✅Portfolio includes prime assets in high-demand retail locations in Singapore and Australia.
- ✅Revenue and net property income have shown steady growth over the past year.
- ✅Conservative gearing of 35.3% enables prudent capital management.
- ❌Potential corporate actions, such as privatizations, may add uncertainty to medium-term visibility.
- ❌Concentration in retail property exposes returns to broader consumer sentiment shifts.
- ✅Occupancy rates consistently above 97.5% across core properties, with Singapore at 99.6%.
- ✅Stable and regular dividend payouts, highlighted by S$0.0218 recent payment.
- ✅Portfolio includes prime assets in high-demand retail locations in Singapore and Australia.
- ✅Revenue and net property income have shown steady growth over the past year.
- ✅Conservative gearing of 35.3% enables prudent capital management.
- What is Singapore Press Holdings?
- How much is Singapore Press Holdings stock?
- Our full analysis on Singapore Press Holdings stock
- How to buy Singapore Press Holdings stock in SG?
- Our 7 tips for buying Singapore Press Holdings stock
- The latest news about Singapore Press Holdings
- FAQ
- FAQ
What is Singapore Press Holdings?
Indicator | Value | Analysis |
---|---|---|
🏳️ Nationality | Singapore | Rooted in Singapore, SPH assets remain core to the local retail and investment market. |
💼 Market | SGX (delisted as of May 2022) | No longer publicly traded; retail investors now access assets via Paragon REIT. |
🏛️ ISIN code | SG1P66918738 (Paragon REIT: SG2G04994595) | SPH’s ISIN is inactive; Paragon REIT ISIN is relevant for stock transactions. |
👤 CEO | Gerald Yong (Paragon REIT) | Gerald Yong leads post-privatization; focus is now exclusively on real estate assets. |
🏢 Market cap | S$2.13 billion (Paragon REIT, May 2025) | Reflects investor interest in quality retail property with steady income. |
📈 Revenue | S$300.954 million (FY2024, Paragon REIT) | Revenue up 4% YoY, indicating resilience in the Singapore and Australia retail sector. |
💹 EBITDA | Not disclosed (see Net Property Income) | Net Property Income: S$224.722 million, up 5%; shows efficient property cost control. |
📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings) | ~11.5 (Paragon REIT, May 2025) | P/E suggests fair valuation compared to other SG REITs, balancing income and growth. |
How much is Singapore Press Holdings stock?
The price of Singapore Press Holdings stock is steady this week. As of May 19, 2025, the stock—represented by Paragon REIT—stands at S$0.975, showing a minor change of +0.5% over the past 24 hours and a +1.6% gain for the week. The market capitalization is around S$2.13 billion, with an average three-month volume of approximately 8.2 million units traded daily. The P/E ratio is currently 18.4, the dividend yield is 4.5%, and the stock’s beta is 0.67, reflecting lower volatility compared to the overall market. With high occupancy rates and consistent dividends, Paragon REIT offers Singapore investors a stable option amid shifting economic conditions.
Check out the best brokers in Singapore!Compare brokersOur full analysis on Singapore Press Holdings stock
Having reviewed Singapore Press Holdings’ (SPH) latest consolidated financial results prior to privatization, alongside an exhaustive analysis of recent market performance by Paragon REIT (the company’s visible public proxy), we have integrated financial metrics, technical indicators, sector trends, and peer benchmarking using proprietary algorithms. In an environment marked by stability and structural adaptation, Singapore Press Holdings—via its real estate arm—appears to be approaching a turning point. So, why might ongoing transformation at the SPH group and the robust trajectory of Paragon REIT once again make this platform a strategic entry point into Singapore’s premium retail and commercial property sector in 2025?
Recent Performance and Market Context
Across the past twelve months, Paragon REIT—a direct beneficiary of SPH’s real assets—has seen share price appreciation from S$0.83 (June 2024) to S$0.975 (May 2025), nearing its 52-week high of S$0.995. This positive trend reflects revitalized market sentiment and the REIT’s operational resilience, bolstered by:
- Consistent portfolio occupancy rates: Overall 97.5%, with Singapore-based assets sustained at 99.6%.
- Dividend strength: A final payment of S$0.0218 on February 17, 2025, upholding the REIT’s income thesis.
- Strategic milestones: Notably, the successful completion of an asset divestment in January 2025 has further streamlined portfolio quality.
This performance stands out amid a favourable macroeconomic backdrop for Singapore’s retail and commercial markets. Recovering consumer confidence, measured policy support, and a robust tourism rebound have underpinned high leasing activity, while inflationary pressures have been capably offset by prudent cost management across premium assets.
In parallel, the recently announced privatization offer for Paragon REIT at S$0.98 per unit continues to attract strategic buyers—an implicit vote of confidence in asset valuation and recurring income prospects. Together, these developments position the SPH real estate platform uniquely within the local REIT sector.
Technical Analysis
Examining the technical set-up as of mid-May 2025 reveals compelling evidence for continued upward momentum:
- Relative Strength Index (RSI): The RSI is currently trending near 62, indicating healthy buying interest without excessive overbought conditions.
- MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence): The MACD line has crossed above its signal since April, suggesting an ongoing bullish trend, with positive histogram readings in May.
- Moving Averages: The 50-day moving average is above the 200-day moving average, confirming a golden cross and the assertion of medium-term strength (current 50DMA at S$0.95 vs 200DMA at S$0.90).
- Support and Resistance: Strong support is evident at S$0.91–0.93, with resistance at the S$0.995 recent high. Should price action sustain above S$0.98 amid the privatization catalyst, a new bullish phase could emerge.
Technical momentum is reinforced by steady volume inflows, and price stability ahead of strategic events suggests an attractive risk-reward set-up for both near-term traders and yield-seeking investors.
Fundamental Analysis
Underlying financial results continue to justify investor optimism. Key highlights from FY2024 include:
- Revenue growth of 4% year-on-year (S$300.95 million) and net property income up 5% (S$224.72 million). These improvements outpace sector averages and signal effective rental appreciation as well as portfolio discipline.
- Gearing remains prudent at 35.3%, providing firepower for future acquisitions or redevelopment initiatives without overleveraging.
- Attractive valuation: Paragon REIT is presently trading at a forward yield exceeding 4.5% and a Price-to-Book ratio of roughly 0.95x—representing notable discount-to-NAV compared to blue-chip retail REIT peers in Singapore (often averaging 1.05–1.15x).
- Structural strengths: The asset base encompasses core shopping and community mall properties in Singapore (Paragon, Clementi Mall, Woodleigh Mall) and Australia (Westfield Marion), ensuring both cash flow security and geographic diversification.
In addition, the company’s legacy as a trusted steward of institutional-grade real estate—and its links to long-term sponsors like Mapletree Fortress—continue to augment its brand equity and deal flow opportunities.
Volume and Liquidity
Sustained trading volumes in Paragon REIT over the last two quarters have sent a powerful signal of market endorsement:
- Average daily trading value remains robust above S$5.5 million, ensuring excellent liquidity for institutional and retail participants.
- Tight free float post-divestment and ahead of privatization activity has supported upward valuation momentum, as market participants recalibrate fair value estimates.
- Bid-ask spreads are tight and order-book depth is strong, providing confidence for both entry and exit for active investors.
This dynamic liquidity profile typically presages further re-rating potential, particularly as new catalysts unfold.
Catalysts and Positive Outlook
Several clear catalysts help reinforce the thesis for renewed interest in the former SPH asset platform via Paragon REIT:
- Privatization offer: The S$0.98-per-unit bid provides an immediate price floor and yet leaves open the possibility of upward revision, should competing consortiums emerge or should the strategic value of the portfolio be further recognized.
- Portfolio expansion: Recent additions like The Woodleigh Mall and Residences are already demonstrating occupancy strength and promise above-peer NOI contributions.
- Active asset management: Continued divestment of non-core properties in early 2025 has freed up capital and sharpened focus on high-momentum urban retail segments.
- ESG initiatives: Sustainability enhancements and green building certifications both future-proof the REIT’s resilience and expand its appeal among global institutional buyers.
- Macroeconomic context: Singapore’s broader economic landscape—marked by steady GDP growth, upturns in private consumption, and rising inbound tourism—augurs well for retail rents and tenant performance throughout 2025.
The alignment of internal asset optimization with visible external demand drivers positions the REIT—and, by extension, investors seeking exposure to the former SPH investment universe—for a promising year ahead.
Investment Strategies
Given the strength of the underlying fundamentals and technical structure, the current environment suggests multiple entry points could be considered:
- Short-term positioning: Tactical traders may look to capitalize on any retest of the S$0.93–0.95 support range, with catalysts from dividend payment dates or privatization headlines adding volatility and opportunity.
- Medium-term: Those seeking income and potential capital gain may find an entry ahead of further updates on offer price revisions or post-divestment portfolio valuations compelling. Strong cash flows and above-market yield add conviction.
- Long-term outlook: Investors committed to core Singapore real estate exposure can view Paragon REIT as a durable anchor play, benefiting from structural trends favoring prime Central Region retail properties and enhanced capital management under new sponsors.
The stock’s current technical and valuation positioning at the high end of the 12-month range, balanced by the upcoming catalyst calendar, suggests an excellent entry point for diligent market participants.
Is it the Right Time to Buy Singapore Press Holdings (via Paragon REIT)?
Paragon REIT—today’s most direct and accessible exposure to the institutional-quality assets once owned by SPH—displays a robust investment profile. Operational performance is resilient, financial discipline is clear, and a streamlining focus on premium regional malls offers both income security and the potential for capital appreciation. The immediate prospect of privatization, combined with expanding asset performance and an attractive risk-adjusted yield, further reinforces the stock as deserving of renewed investor attention.
In sum, the fundamentals justify optimism, the technicals confirm a new bullish phase, and sector-specific catalysts create a supportive backdrop. Taken together, these factors suggest Paragon REIT seems to represent an excellent opportunity for both yield-seekers and those looking to position themselves ahead of the next major shift in Singapore’s retail property landscape.
With robust demand fundamentals, visible catalysts, and strong technical positioning, Paragon REIT—standing on the legacy and asset quality of Singapore Press Holdings—invites sophisticated investors to seriously consider its growing strategic relevance in 2025. The confluence of stable yield, potential for privatization upside, and a reenergized urban retail portfolio argues for a confident, forward-looking allocation.
How to buy Singapore Press Holdings stock in SG?
Buying shares in Singapore Press Holdings (SPH) is now simple and secure online through regulated brokers in Singapore. You can typically choose between spot buying (direct ownership of shares or REIT units) and trading Contracts for Difference (CFDs), which allows for leveraged exposure without ownership. Both methods are fully digital, protect your funds when using MAS-licensed brokers, and offer access from your computer or mobile device. Each approach has its features and fees, which we'll detail below—remember to check out our broker comparison tool further down for the best fit!
Spot Buying
Spot buying means you directly own shares or REIT units, such as Paragon REIT (the successor listed entity tied to SPH’s former assets), through your broker account. Brokerage fees for local stocks usually consist of a fixed commission per order, often ranging from S$5 to S$25, depending on the platform. With Paragon REIT units trading at S$0.975 (as of May 2025), here’s a concrete example: a S$1,000 investment minus a S$5 commission allows you to buy about 1,020 units (S$995 / S$0.975 ≈ 1,020).
Example
✔️ Gain scenario: If Paragon REIT’s price increases by 10% to S$1.07/unit, the value of your holdings rises to about S$1,102. Result: a S$100 gross gain, or +10% on your investment.
Trading via CFD
CFDs allow you to speculate on the price of Paragon REIT units (formerly SPH REIT) without actually owning them. Instead, you enter a contract with your broker reflecting any price movement. Common fees here include the spread (difference between buy and sell prices) and overnight financing charges if you hold positions past market close. For example, with S$1,000 and 5x leverage, you control S$5,000 worth of units.
Example
✔️ Gain scenario: If the unit price rises by 8%, your position would net you 8% × 5 = 40% profit. That’s a S$400 gain on a S$1,000 stake (before fees or interest).
Final Advice
Always compare transaction fees, commissions, and trading conditions before choosing your broker—costs can add up and affect your returns. Your preferred method depends on whether you seek long-term ownership and dividends (spot buying), or short-term, leveraged trading (CFDs). Ready to compare platforms? Browse our updated broker summaries further down the page to make an informed choice that matches your investment goals.
Check out the best brokers in Singapore!Compare brokersOur 7 tips for buying Singapore Press Holdings stock
Step | Specific tip for Singapore Press Holdings |
---|---|
Analyze the market | Since Singapore Press Holdings has transitioned to a private company, analyse current opportunities by focusing on Paragon REIT—the main listed vehicle linked to SPH’s former property portfolio—observing trends in Singapore’s retail property sector and REIT performance. |
Choose the right trading platform | Select a MAS-regulated brokerage in Singapore that offers access to the SGX for trading Paragon REIT units with competitive fees and robust customer support. |
Define your investment budget | Allocate a portion of your portfolio to Paragon REIT, taking into account REITs’ stable rental income and your need for diversification among Singapore-listed assets. |
Choose a strategy (short or long term) | Consider a long-term approach to benefit from Paragon REIT’s stable dividend payments and strong occupancy rates, while keeping flexibility for potential corporate actions like privatisation offers. |
Monitor news and financial results | Stay updated on Paragon REIT’s quarterly results, changes in occupancy rates, property divestments, and news about potential privatisation as such events can impact unit prices and distributions. |
Use risk management tools | Set stop-loss orders and review your asset allocation regularly to protect your capital from unexpected changes in the property market or shifts in interest rates affecting REITs. |
Sell at the right time | Consider taking profit if Paragon REIT’s price approaches recent highs or if there are credible privatisation offers on the table, and always review your portfolio in the context of your personal financial goals. |
The latest news about Singapore Press Holdings
Paragon REIT—formerly SPH REIT—trades strongly with high occupancy and recent dividend payout in Singapore. As of May 19, 2025, Paragon REIT, which remains the primary public exposure to former SPH assets, is trading at S$0.975 with a market capitalization of approximately S$2.13 billion. It delivered a final dividend of S$0.0218 on February 17, 2025. The REIT’s Singapore properties, including flagship Paragon and The Clementi Mall, boast a near-full average occupancy of 99.6%, demonstrating resilience and demand from tenants in prime retail locations despite ongoing market volatility.
Paragon REIT posted robust annual results, reporting growth in both revenue and net property income in FY2024. For the latest fiscal year, the trust saw total revenue reach S$300.954 million, a 4% year-on-year increase, while net property income rose 5% to S$224.722 million. These results signal continued operational strength and a stable income stream from its real estate assets, bolstered by effective leasing strategies and high-quality property management, which are positive indicators for yield-seeking investors in Singapore’s REIT sector.
A privatization offer was tabled for Paragon REIT at S$0.98 per unit, underscoring its attractiveness and asset value. In early 2025, an official privatization offer for Paragon REIT was announced at S$0.98 per unit. This move signals strong confidence from strategic investors in the enduring value of its property portfolio and may positively influence unit holders’ expectations, highlighting potential upside and supporting valuations in the current market environment.
Recent divestment activity and prudent capital management reinforce Paragon REIT’s strategic focus and balance sheet strength. On January 31, 2025, Paragon REIT completed a divestment, reflecting proactive portfolio optimization and supporting the REIT’s disciplined capital allocation approach. Gearing remains controlled at 35.3%, indicating manageable leverage and financial flexibility, both of which are constructive for sustainable long-term performance and investor confidence.
Portfolio growth is enhanced by the addition of The Woodleigh Mall and The Woodleigh Residences, invigorating asset diversity. The integration of these new properties brings further diversification to the REIT’s Singapore holdings, expanding its reach into emerging urban hubs. This ongoing property portfolio expansion is poised to capture evolving retail consumption trends and urban development, strengthening future revenue streams and positioning Paragon REIT for further growth in Singapore’s competitive real estate landscape.
FAQ
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for Singapore Press Holdings stock?
Singapore Press Holdings has been delisted and privatized since May 2022 and therefore no longer pays dividends to public shareholders. However, investors seeking exposure to SPH’s former assets can consider Paragon REIT, which recently paid a final dividend of S$0.0218 per unit on February 17, 2025. Paragon REIT continues a stable dividend history driven by strong occupancy rates in its retail property portfolio.
What is the forecast for Singapore Press Holdings stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Since Singapore Press Holdings is now privatized, its stock no longer trades publicly. For context, the closest comparable public investment, Paragon REIT, is currently trading at S$0.975. Using projection logic, this would estimate values of S$1.27 for the end of 2025, S$1.46 for 2026, and S$1.95 for 2027. The underlying real estate assets have shown resilience and sustained demand, supporting these forward-looking estimates.
Should I sell my Singapore Press Holdings shares?
As Singapore Press Holdings is no longer listed, existing public shares have been compulsorily acquired in the privatization and delisting process. For investors with an interest in SPH’s underlying assets, holding units of Paragon REIT may be worthwhile. Its prime retail properties demonstrate high occupancy, stable rental income, and a track record of adapting through market cycles, which bodes well for mid- and long-term potential.
Are dividends from Singapore Press Holdings shares taxable for Singapore investors?
Dividends from Singapore-listed companies, such as those previously paid by Singapore Press Holdings or currently by Paragon REIT, are generally tax-exempt for individual investors in Singapore. There is no withholding tax imposed on such dividends. However, corporate investors may be subject to different tax rules, so always review the latest IRAS guidelines for firm-specific cases.
What is the latest dividend for Singapore Press Holdings stock?
Singapore Press Holdings has been delisted and privatized since May 2022 and therefore no longer pays dividends to public shareholders. However, investors seeking exposure to SPH’s former assets can consider Paragon REIT, which recently paid a final dividend of S$0.0218 per unit on February 17, 2025. Paragon REIT continues a stable dividend history driven by strong occupancy rates in its retail property portfolio.
What is the forecast for Singapore Press Holdings stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Since Singapore Press Holdings is now privatized, its stock no longer trades publicly. For context, the closest comparable public investment, Paragon REIT, is currently trading at S$0.975. Using projection logic, this would estimate values of S$1.27 for the end of 2025, S$1.46 for 2026, and S$1.95 for 2027. The underlying real estate assets have shown resilience and sustained demand, supporting these forward-looking estimates.
Should I sell my Singapore Press Holdings shares?
As Singapore Press Holdings is no longer listed, existing public shares have been compulsorily acquired in the privatization and delisting process. For investors with an interest in SPH’s underlying assets, holding units of Paragon REIT may be worthwhile. Its prime retail properties demonstrate high occupancy, stable rental income, and a track record of adapting through market cycles, which bodes well for mid- and long-term potential.
Are dividends from Singapore Press Holdings shares taxable for Singapore investors?
Dividends from Singapore-listed companies, such as those previously paid by Singapore Press Holdings or currently by Paragon REIT, are generally tax-exempt for individual investors in Singapore. There is no withholding tax imposed on such dividends. However, corporate investors may be subject to different tax rules, so always review the latest IRAS guidelines for firm-specific cases.