Vibrant week of market activity on multiple fronts

THE five trading sessions spanning June 14 to June 20 saw the STI add 0.2 per cent, which brought its dividend-inclusive return for the 2017 year to date to 16.1 per cent. In the course of the five sessions the STI crossed above the key 3,300 level - the first time since July 2015.

Ten stocks conducted share buybacks over the five sessions with a total consideration of S$4.1 million, up 11 per cent from the preceding five sessions.

Consumer healthcare group, Cordlife, purchased a total of 2 million of its shares on July 19 and July 20, after the renewal of its share buyback mandate was approved at the July 18 EGM. Overall buyback activity has been less than usual, amid the latest earnings reporting season.