STI returns to above 3,400; Yoma CEO ups stake

THE five trading sessions spanning Nov 17 to 23 saw the Straits Times Index (STI) gain 2.5 per cent. The move brought the STI's dividend-inclusive return for 2017 (through to Nov 23) to 22.8 per cent, compared to an average 19.1 per cent return for the benchmarks of Japan, Hong Kong and Australia.

There were 14 stocks that conducted share buybacks over the five sessions with a total consideration of S$10.1 million, down from S$17.1 million over the preceding five sessions.

OCBC Bank and Silverlake Axis led the buyback tally, accounting for more than four-fifths of the S$10.1 million.

Over the five sessions, more than 50 SGX primary-listed stocks lodged almost 100 changes in director interests or substantial shareholders. There were 24 director acquis…