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

Analysts see developers reaping gains from recent M&A exercises; plantation stocks could also get boost from consumer demand

Published Mon, Jan 20, 2020 · 09:50 PM

    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.