Utilities stocks remain defensive line with 3% average total return in 2022

The utilities sector recorded the least declines.

The five most traded stocks related to the utilities sector averaged 3% total return over the first 19 weeks in 2022, which also became one of the most defensive after reporting the least declines, based on Singapore Exchange Limited (SGX) market updates.

According to the investment holding firm, the five most traded stocks are Sembcorp Industries, Keppel Infrastructure Trust, China Everbright Water, SIIC Environment Holdings, and Union Gas Holdings. 

Of the five, three stocks, namely Sembcorp Industries, Keppel Infrastructure Trust, and Union Gas Holdings, maintained varied revenue exposure to Singapore. These firms outpaced Straits Times Index’s 19% total return since the end of 2018, with total returns of 133% for Sembcorp Industries, 46% for KIT and 243% for Union Gas Holdings, said SGX.

With this development, Sembcorp Industries also reported a 78% rise in its 2021 net profit year-on-year to $279m.