Singapore's Most Resilient Blue-Chip Stocks for the Year of the Red Fire Horse

Trading Random
Feb 17

In the Chinese zodiac, the Year of the Red Fire Horse symbolizes vigor, self-assurance, and a powerful momentum to advance.

For those investing, these qualities align perfectly with the characteristics of a robust blue-chip stock: strict discipline, enduring strength, and the capacity to persevere through challenging market conditions.

As financial markets become increasingly discerning, fundamental strength outweighs mere speculation, and steady performance consistently proves more valuable than fleeting excitement.

Here is an analysis of three Singapore-listed blue-chip companies that exemplify resilience and long-term stability, making them well-suited for the Year of the Red Fire Horse.

Characteristics of a Resilient Blue-Chip Stock

First, it is important to define what constitutes a resilient blue-chip stock.

The term 'blue chip' is derived from poker, where blue chips hold the highest value.

In equity markets, blue-chip stocks represent shares in established companies with a history of reliable earnings and consistent cash flow generation.

These stocks are typically better equipped to weather economic recessions and market fluctuations due to their strong balance sheets and prudent capital management.

Many also have a demonstrated history of providing regular dividends, rewarding shareholders with consistent returns over time.

Keppel Limited: The Industry Frontrunner

Keppel Limited stands out as a company that captures the essence of the Red Fire Horse's spirit.

The conglomerate's share price climbed to S$12.42 on February 10, 2026, marking its highest level in more than 12 years.

This upward trend continued from the previous week, with the stock gaining 6.5% following the release of its strong full-year financial results for 2025.

Keppel's net profit, excluding gains from non-core assets and discontinued operations, increased by 39% to S$1.1 billion, up from S$793 million the previous year.

The company attributed this robust performance to improved profitability across its three main business divisions: infrastructure, real estate, and connectivity.

Management announced a special dividend of S$0.13 per share.

Combined with the interim cash dividend of S$0.15 per share distributed in August, the total dividend payout for fiscal year 2025 amounts to S$0.47 per share, representing a 38% year-on-year increase.

Keppel's effective leadership, supported by disciplined operational execution and shareholder returns, positions it to maintain strong performance even in volatile markets.

NetLink NBN Trust: The Reliable Income Provider

NetLink NBN Trust, responsible for building, maintaining, and operating Singapore's fibre broadband network, exemplifies a classic income-generating investment.

The trust reported stable results for the first nine months of fiscal year 2026, with revenue increasing slightly by 1.6% year-on-year to S$313 million.

This was achieved despite an 11.8% decline in net profit to S$65.4 million, primarily due to increased depreciation and costs associated with network expansion.

Its EBITDA remained steady at S$215.5 million, with a strong margin of 68.8%, highlighting the stability and reliability of its operational cash flows even with a higher cost structure.

Distributions from NetLink have grown consistently, from S$0.0244 per unit in fiscal year 2019 to S$0.0271 per unit in the first half of fiscal year 2026—an increase of approximately 11% over six years.

Although net profit saw a slight decrease, the trust's core business remains solid.

Residential connections held steady at about 1.5 million, while non-residential connections decreased slightly to 52,574 from 53,454.

With growing revenue and largely stable customer connections emphasizing the value of predictable cash flows, NetLink is well-positioned to serve as a dependable portfolio anchor.

Venture Corporation Ltd: The Steady Growth Performer

The Year of the Red Fire Horse may favor understated companies with solid growth potential, such as Venture Corporation.

Venture is an electronics manufacturing services provider serving diverse industries, including medical technology, life sciences, and electronics.

For the third quarter of 2025, the company reported revenue of S$627.2 million and a net profit of S$55.6 million, maintaining a healthy net margin of 8.9% despite temporary softness in consumer-related segments.

The company has a strong history of paying consistent annual dividends, supported by its debt-free status and a cash reserve exceeding S$1 billion as of September 30, 2025.

It typically maintains a dividend payout of S$0.75 per share, offering a yield of around 4.5% based on the latest distribution.

Venture plans to launch new products, building on recent successes in the test and measurement, semiconductor equipment, and life sciences sectors, which are expected to drive growth through reinvestment.

The company's quiet resilience and disciplined reinvestment strategy provide a solid foundation for sustained earnings growth and long-term shareholder returns.

Disclaimer: Investing carries risk. This is not financial advice. The above content should not be regarded as an offer, recommendation, or solicitation on acquiring or disposing of any financial products, any associated discussions, comments, or posts by author or other users should not be considered as such either. It is solely for general information purpose only, which does not consider your own investment objectives, financial situations or needs. TTM assumes no responsibility or warranty for the accuracy and completeness of the information, investors should do their own research and may seek professional advice before investing.

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