Earnings season

The AI boom has been a massive growth driver for the semiconductor sector. Companies that produce chips critical for AI computing, such as GPUs and specialized AI accelerators, have seen explosive demand. AI workloads in data centers and cloud computing are expected to increase exponentially, driving a sustained need for cutting-edge semiconductors.

As such, U.S. semiconductor stocks are in the spotlight during earnings season. Major companies like Nvidia, AMD, Intel, Qualcomm, and Broadcom are key players, and their earnings results are pivotal in shaping market sentiment.

U.S. financial stocks, represented by major banks, asset managers, insurers, and fintech companies, are pivotal to the broader economy and the stock market.

While the Fed's rate-cutting cycle may pose challenges for U.S. banks, particularly in terms of margin compression and reduced profitability from lending, lower rates can also stimulate loan growth. Financial institutions with diversified income streams (investment banking, fee income, wealth management) may be better positioned to weather the impact.

Singapore blue-chip stocks represent some of the largest and most stable companies listed on the Singapore Exchange (SGX). They are often seen as safe, long-term investments, offering steady dividends and exposure to key sectors like banking, real estate, and telecommunications.

These companies have a strong history in weathering global economic challenges, demonstrating resilience due to their strong balance sheets and diversified business models.

As the US Federal Reserve (Fed) embarks on its rate-cutting cycle, Singapore Real Estate Investment Trusts (S-REITs) have been regaining traction since July 2024. These stocks offer market participants access to a wide range of real estate assets while providing regular income through dividends.

S-REITs own and manage income-generating properties such as retail malls, office buildings, industrial facilities, logistics centers, and healthcare properties.