Citi has set a new price target for the Singapore Exchange (SGX: SP) (OTC: OTC:SPXCY), increasing it to SGD12.70 from the previous SGD10.90 while retaining a Buy rating on the stock.
The revision reflects a positive outlook based on several factors including anticipated earnings upgrades, reasonable valuation, and an uptick in derivative volumes.
The Singapore Exchange's valuation, which currently stands at 21 times its 12-month forward price-to-earnings ratio, is seen as moderately optimistic.
The optimism is partly due to the expectation that the Review Group, established on August 2, 2024, will introduce measures to enhance securities trading liquidity on the SGX.
The valuation also falls within the historical range of 19 to 24 times.
In comparison, Japan Exchange Group, which also holds a Buy rating and has a target price of 5,000JPY, experienced a re-rating of its 12-month forward P/E from 22 times in March 2023, peaking at 36 times in April 2024.
This was attributed not only to earnings growth but also to efforts in promoting corporate governance reforms aimed at improving return on equity.
The analyst's view on Singapore Exchange is that with the inclusion of improved derivative volumes, potential for increased securities liquidity, and operational expenditure discipline, there is justification for an increase in earnings per share estimates by 3-5%.
Consequently, the price target has been raised to SGD12.70, which implies a price-to-earnings ratio of 25 times, nearing the peak of 26 times seen in 2021. The adjustment reflects the anticipation of forthcoming measures to boost liquidity, and the recommendation to maintain a Buy rating stands.
InvestingPro Insights
According to the latest InvestingPro data, Singapore Exchange (OTC: SPXCY) presents a compelling picture for investors with a market capitalization of $9.24 billion USD and a Price/Earnings (P/E) ratio of 20.13. Notably, the company has maintained a strong track record of dividend payments for 24 consecutive years, with a current dividend yield of 2.81%. This commitment to shareholder returns is further underscored by a dividend growth of 8.09% over the last twelve months as of Q1 2023.
The company's financial health appears robust, with liquid assets surpassing short-term obligations and cash flows that can sufficiently cover interest payments. These InvestingPro Tips suggest that Singapore Exchange is well-positioned to manage its financial commitments and continue rewarding its investors. Moreover, the company's shares are trading near their 52-week high, reflecting a price that is 95.75% of the peak, which aligns with the positive sentiment expressed by analysts.
For those seeking a deeper analysis, InvestingPro offers additional tips on Singapore Exchange, which can be found at InvestingPro's dedicated SPXCY page. These insights could provide investors with further clarity on the company's performance and potential investment opportunities.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.