Finding the sweet spot in investing can feel like a never-ending journey. Strong returns are always welcome, but you don’t want to lose sleep over market swings.
For investors looking to balance risk and reward, dividend stocks hold strategic appeal. They provide a consistent income stream while giving you a stake in the long-term success of established businesses.
According to The Straits Times, Singapore’s outlook for 2025 seems bright with greater capital inflows expected and analysts favouring the country for its good dividend yields.
Building on this momentum, let’s explore some of the best, high-yield dividend stocks in Singapore for 2025.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Dividend Stock? Basics and Key Terms to Know
- Top 10 Best Dividend Stocks in Singapore for 2025
- How to Choose Dividend Stocks in Singapore That Are Worth Holding
- Why Invest in Dividend Stocks in Singapore?
- How to Buy & Start Investing in Dividend Stocks in Singapore
What Is a Dividend Stock? Basics and Key Terms to Know
Before we dive into Singapore’s top dividend stocks for 2025, let us briefly define what makes them the “best” in our opinion. We analyse factors such as dividend yield, payout ratio, and share price performance.
Dividend Stock
A dividend stock represents ownership in a company that regularly distributes a portion of its profits to shareholders as dividends. These payments offer investors in Singapore a consistent and reliable income stream.
Many blue-chip stocks in Singapore, known for their stability and strong financial performance, also pay dividends, making them popular choices for income-focused investors.
Dividend Yield
Dividend Yield is a percentage that indicates how much dividend is earned per dollar invested. While a higher yield is attractive, we also consider a company’s long-term profitability and consistent track record of dividend growth.
The companies with highest dividend yields often have strong cash flows, but it’s important to ensure these yields are sustainable. Stable, profitable companies are more likely to weather economic storms and keep paying dividends.
Payout Ratio
The Payout Ratio shows how much of a company’s profits go to dividends. A low payout ratio suggests that the company has room to increase dividends in the future. To dig deeper, we also take into account the stock’s debt-to-equity ratio. A low debt-to-equity ratio shows that the company is financially healthy and can afford to pay dividends consistently.
Share Price Performance
Share Price Performance is important because a stock’s price performance reflects how well the company is doing based on its overall health and growth potential. To assess a company’s long-term viability, we also analyse its profitability and debt levels.
The factors covered above, such as dividend yield, payout ratio, and share price performance over the past 12 months, are analysed to determine what we consider the ‘best’ options for dividend stocks in Singapore.
Top 10 Best Dividend Stocks in Singapore for 2025
1. DBS Group Holdings (SGX:D05)
As the largest bank in Singapore and Southeast Asia, DBS Group Holdings is a linchpin of our financial landscape.
DBS reported a record net profit of S$11.4 billion in 2024. This reflects a 11% year-on-year increase driven by broad-based growth across its business segments.
Total income rose 10% from a year ago and return on equity is at 18%, highlighting strong performance across key revenue streams. In line with its solid performance, DBS declared a final dividend of S$0.60 and has declared plans to introduce a quarterly Capital Return dividend for the year 2025.
Compared to its peers in Singapore, DBS stocks generally offer a competitive dividend yield and a reputation for reliability. Significant acquisitions and strategic initiatives, such as expanding its digital banking services and regional presence, contribute to its growth.
Source: DBS. As of (published date).
2. United Overseas Bank Ltd (SGX:U11)
Though smaller in scale, UOB has positioned itself as a significant player, especially after acquiring Citigroup’s consumer business for about S$5 billion in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam. This doubles its retail customer base to over 7 million, making it one of the key players to watch in the coming future.
UOB reported a net profit of S$6 billion for 2024, reflecting a 6% year-on-year increase. These strong 2024 numbers are followed by a recommendation by the board for a final dividend of S$0.92 per share. When combined with the interim dividend of $0.88 per share, the total dividend for FY24 will be S$1,80 per ordinary share.
UOB’s strategic acquisition of Citigroup’s assets has significantly expanded its regional reach and customer base, fueling its growth potential. UOB stocks maintain a strong track record of dividend payments in Singapore, often comparable to its peers in terms of yield and consistency.
Source: UOB 2024 Performance Highlights. As of (published date).
3. Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation (SGX:O39)
OCBC reported a strong 2024 performance, with net profit rising 8% to a record S$7.59 billion.
OCBC’s strategic growth initiatives continue to bear fruit, with the successful acquisition of PT Bank Commonwealth Indonesia and an increased stake in Great Eastern Holdings in 2024. These developments solidify the bank’s position and position it for future growth.
OCBC’s total income went above S$14 billion for the first time in 2024, a 7% increase year-on-year. The board has announced comprehensive plans to return S$2.5 billion to shareholders over two years via special dividends and share buybacks.
For FY 24, a final ordinary dividend of S$0.41per share is proposed, bringing the total ordinary dividend to 85 cents per share.
OCBC boasts a long history of consistent dividend payouts. The bank’s diversified business model and strong financial position contribute to the long-term sustainability of its dividends.
Source: OCBC. As of (published date).
4. Singapore Telecommunications (SGX:Z74)
As a telecommunications giant majority-owned by Singapore’s government, Singtel has maintained a stable dividend policy.
The telco has big plans to deliver better customer experiences and sustained value realisation for shareholders, targeting a double-digit return on invested capital in the mid-term.
With a diverse investment portfolio across the region, Singtel reported a 6% increase in underlying net profit to S$1.19 billion for the half-year period ending 30 September 2024.
However, net profit for the half-year decreased by 42% to S$1.23 billion due to an exceptional gain from the issuance of Telkomsel shares in the corresponding period last year.
Singtel declared an interim dividend of 7.0 cents per share, marking a 35% increase from the previous year. This dividend consists of a core dividend of 5.6 cents per share and a value realisation dividend of 1.4 cents per share, amounting to a total of S$1.16 billion.
The telecommunications sector is undergoing rapid transformation, with the 5G rollout. How Singtel adapts to these changes will be crucial for investors looking at the top dividend stocks to buy in Singapore.
The company is already looking to the future and is actively investing in 5G infrastructure and exploring new growth areas like digital services and enterprise solutions.
Source: Singtel. As of (published date).
5. ST Engineering (SGX:S63)
ST Engineering is a homegrown technology company that needs no introduction. The company reported a 11.6% increase in revenue for 2024, reaching S$11.2 billion. These record revenue numbers were primarily driven by its defence & public security, commercial aerospace sectors, and Urban Solutions & Satcom segment.
ST Engineering proposed a final dividend of S$0.05 per share, bringing the total dividend for the year up to S$0.17 per share. This is an increase over the S$.0.16 per share in 2023.
ST Engineering has recently made strategic acquisitions to enhance its capabilities in areas like cybersecurity and satellite communications, which indicates that the company is positioning itself for long-term growth in high-demand, future-ready sectors.
Source: The Business Times. As of (published date).
6. Sheng Siong Group Ltd (SGX:OV8)
Sheng Siong Group Ltd is a home favourite supermarket chain that everyone is familiar with. The company reported earnings of S$137.5 million in 2024, a 2.9% increase year on year, driven by new store openings and an improvement in comparable same-store sales. Revenue rose 4.5% to S$1.43 billion, and the gross profit margin improved by 0.5 percentage point to 30.5%.
The board of directors has proposed a final dividend of S$0.032 cents per share, and combined with the interim dividend of S$0.032 cents per share, the total dividend for FY2024 amounts to S$0.064 cents per share.
The consumer staples sector, in which Sheng Siong operates, is generally considered defensive and less susceptible to economic downturns. Sheng Siong continues to expand its store network and explore new retail formats to drive growth.
Source: Sheng Siong. As of (published date).
Singapore Exchange Limited (SGX: S68)
Singapore Exchange Limited (SGX) serves as the primary securities and derivatives exchange in Singapore, playing a pivotal role in the nation’s financial infrastructure.
For FY2024, SGX reported an adjusted net profit of S$525.9 million, a 4.5% increase from the previous year. In line with its solid performance, the Board of Directors has proposed a final quarterly dividend of 9.0 cents (up from 8.5 cents) per share.
Over the past decade, SGX has steadily grown its dividend at a rate exceeding 2% annually. This trend, aligned with its earnings growth, reflects a strong commitment to sharing financial success with shareholders and helps defray inflationary pressures.
Source: SGX, Morningstar. As of (published date).
ComfortDelGro Corporation Limited (SGX: C52)
ComfortDelGro Corporation Limited is a leading global land transport company headquartered in Singapore, operating a diverse fleet of vehicles across multiple countries.
For 2024, ComfortDelGro reported a 15.4% rise in revenue to S$4.48 billion. In line with its financial performance, ComfortDelGro announced a dividend of S$0.0425 per share. This takes the total dividend for 2024 up to S$0.0777 per share providing a nice boost to shareholder returns.
ComfortDelGro’s strategic initiatives, including global expansion and acquisitions, have contributed to its robust financial performance and sustained growth. For investors in Singapore looking at how to increase their passive income streams, choosing to buy this dividend stock may be a good option.
Source: The Business Times, Simply Wall St, The Edge. As of (published date).
Keppel Corporation Limited (SGX: BN4)
Keppel Corporation Limited is a diversified global company headquartered in Singapore, with operations spanning Offshore & Marine, Infrastructure, and Property sectors across over 30 countries. It also manages several Singapore REITs through its asset management business.
In the first half of 2024, Keppel reported that recurring income grew by 14% year-on-year, driven by higher contributions from both asset management and operating income.
The board of Keppel Ltd. has announced a dividend of S$0.15 per share. This translates to an annual dividend yield of 5.7%, which is above the industry average, highlighting Keppel’s strong commitment to delivering shareholder value.
While net profit for Q3 2024 was lower year-on-year due to the absence of valuation and divestment gains in the Connectivity segment, Keppel’s long-term growth outlook remains robust.
Source: Keppel, Simply Wall St. As of (published date).
CapitaLand Investment Limited (SGX: 9CI)
In 2024, CapitaLand Investment (CLI) reported an 29% increase in EBITDA to reach S$1.4 billion. This was bolstered by increases in revenue contribution from all four FRB segments: Listed Funds Management, Private Funds Management, Lodging Management and Commercial Management.
The board is proposing a core dividend of S$0.12, bringing the total dividend up to about S$0.18 for 2024. This consistent dividend payout reflects CLI’s commitment to shareholder returns while fueling future growth initiatives.
Source: CapitaLand. As of (published date).
How to Decide Which Dividend Stock to Buy (and Hold)?
2025 has so far promised exciting opportunities for investors in Singapore’s dividend stocks. Investing in dividend stocks requires finding a careful balance between stability and growth. You should consider your investment objectives based on payout and price return expectations and do a thorough research before investing.
| Market Cap | Current Share Price | Trailing 12 Months Dividends Per Share | Trailing Dividend Yield | |
| DBS | S$132.6B | S$46.67 | S$2.11 | 4.53% |
| UOB | S$64.37B | S$38.44 | S$1.73 | 4.49% |
| OCBC | S$78.09B | S$17.21 | S$0.86 | 4.95% |
| Singtel | S$55.11B | S$3.32 | S$0.12 | 3.47% |
| ST Engineering | S$16.35B | S$5.06 | S$0.16 | 3.05% |
| Sheng Siong Group Ltd | S$2.48B | S$1.63 | S$0.06 | 3.88% |
| Singapore Exchange Limited | S$14.36B | S$13.23 | S$0.36 | 2.65% |
| ComfortDelGro | S$3.05B | S$1.39 | S$0.07 | 5.16% |
| Keppel | S$12.39B | S$6.78 | S$0.34 | 4.96% |
| CapitaLand Investment Limited | S$13.06B | S$2.50 | S$0.12 | 4.58% |
How to Choose Dividend Stocks in Singapore That Are Worth Holding
2024 proved to be a successful year for investors in Singapore’s dividend stocks. As we look ahead to 2025 you should note that investing in dividend stocks requires finding a careful balance between stability and growth.
You should consider your investment objectives based on payout and price return expectations and do thorough research before investing.
Evaluate the Dividend Payout Ratio
A healthy payout ratio indicates that the company is sharing a reasonable portion of its profits with shareholders without jeopardising its financial stability.
A lower payout ratio suggests potential for future dividend increases.
For example, while DBS, UOB, and OCBC have historically had relatively stable payout ratios, consider how those ratios have trended over time and how they compare to industry averages.
Look for a Proven Track Record of Consistent Dividend Payments
A history of consistent dividend payments, ideally with increases over time, demonstrates a company’s commitment to returning value to shareholders.
Look at the dividend history of companies like DBS, UOB, and OCBC. Their long-standing tradition of dividend payouts makes them attractive as dividend stocks in Singapore.
Ensure the Company Has Stable and Positive Free Cash Flow
Free cash flow (FCF) is the cash a company has left over after paying its operating expenses and capital expenditures.
Strong and consistent FCF is essential for sustaining dividend payments.
Companies like ST Engineering and Sheng Siong, while operating in different sectors, should be evaluated for their FCF strength and consistency.
Prioritise Dividend Yields Higher Than the Risk-Free Rate
The risk-free rate represents the return on a virtually risk-free investment, such as a government bond.
Your dividend yield should ideally exceed this rate to compensate you for the added risk of investing in stocks.
While OCBC, Keppel, and ComfortDelGro may offer attractive yields, compare them against prevailing risk-free rates to assess their true value.
Evaluate the Company’s Financial Health and Debt Levels
A company’s financial health is crucial for its ability to maintain dividend payments.
High debt levels can strain cash flow and potentially lead to dividend cuts.
Analyse the debt-to-equity ratios of companies like Singtel and ST Engineering to understand their financial leverage and its potential impact on future dividends.
Assess the Potential for Dividend Growth
Look for stocks with a history of increasing their dividends over time. This indicates a healthy business and a commitment to rewarding shareholders in Singapore.
Consider the growth prospects of companies like Sheng Siong and how that growth could translate into future dividend increases. Their business model and market position can play a role.
Why Invest in Dividend Stocks in Singapore?
Dividend stocks offer a compelling combination of income, stability, and long-term growth potential, making them an attractive investment option for many. Here’s a closer look at the key benefits:
Reliable Source of Passive Income
The best dividend stocks in Singapore are known for providing a regular stream of income, offering investors a consistent and reliable source of passive income. These regular payouts can supplement your earnings, fund your retirement, or simply provide greater financial flexibility.
Stability During Market Volatility
Companies with a strong history of paying dividends are often financially stable and well-established. This financial health can make their stock prices less volatile during market downturns in Singapore compared to companies that don’t pay dividends.
Long-Term Wealth Growth Through Reinvestment
One of the most powerful aspects of dividend investing is the ability to reinvest your dividends. By reinvesting your dividend payouts back into the company’s stock, you can purchase more shares and subsequently receive even more dividends.
This creates a compounding effect, accelerating your returns over time and significantly boosting your long-term wealth growth.
Inflation Protection with Growing Dividends
Inflation erodes the purchasing power of your money over time. However, companies that consistently grow their dividends help investors keep pace with, or even outpace, inflation. As the cost of living rises, these stocks tend to increase their dividend payouts, ensuring that your income stream maintains its value in Singapore.
Diversification Benefits
Dividend-paying stocks can play a crucial role in diversifying your investment portfolio. They often belong to established, mature companies, which can balance the potentially higher risk and higher reward of growth stocks.
Tax Advantages in Singapore
Singapore offers a favourable tax environment for dividend investors. Dividends from locally-listed stocks are currently tax-free, further enhancing the appeal of dividend investing in Singapore.
How to Buy & Start Investing in Dividend Stocks in Singapore
Syfe has a brokerage offering through which you can access dividend stocks as well as other securities on SGX.
Take control of your investments with Syfe’s low commission fees, starting at S$1.98 or 0.045% of traded value. This cost-effective approach maximises your returns and allows you to keep more of what you earn.
Alternatively, if you’re looking to buy into a basket of these four securities, STI ETFs can be an easy access option to access the broader Singapore market. Syfe also provides a user-friendly platform, making investing accessible to everyone, from seasoned investors to those just starting out.
You can now trade odd lots on SGX with Syfe, allowing you to buy and sell as few as one share instead of the standard lot size of 100 shares. This is particularly beneficial for investors interested in blue-chip stocks, which often have higher share prices. Trading odd lots makes it easier to invest in these companies, even with a smaller budget, and allows for greater flexibility in building a diversified portfolio.
Ready to start building your dividend stocks portfolio in Singapore with Syfe? It’s easy to get started:
- Download the Syfe app: Get the Syfe app on your mobile device to begin your investing journey.
- Open a brokerage account: Quickly and easily set up your Syfe Bbrokerage account directly through the app.
- Explore dividend stocks: Browse a wide selection of global and Singapore dividend stocks, all within the Syfe platform, to find the best one for your risk profile.
- Make your first trade: Execute your trades seamlessly and securely with Syfe’s intuitive trading interface.
Ready to start investing? Explore an array of global and Singapore’s dividend stocks today.
Read More:
Guide to Investing in Dividend ETFs in Singapore and How to Choose Them
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