Muted earnings for Q4; but property, banks may surprise on upside

Singapore

PROPERTY developers, banks and plantation players are expected to be winners in the upcoming earnings season, despite overall muted projections due to the weak economic conditions in the October-to-December quarter.

While developers will benefit from recent merger and acquisition activity, banks are expected to generate higher wealth management fees and trading income compared to the low base a year ago. Plantation companies are riding on higher crude palm oil prices and greater demand due in part to the earlier Lunar New Year period which is a traditional boost for consumer goods.

Real estate investment trusts (Reits) and …