STI outperforms global indices with 5.6% total return in Q1

Share buybacks reached $560M in the quarter.

The Straits Times Index (STI) rose 5.1% to 4,885.45 in the first quarter of 2026 (Q1), with dividends lifting the total return to 5.6%, according to SGX Group.

The benchmark outperformed the FTSE APAC Index (+0.4%) and the FTSE World Index (-3.0%) in Singapore dollar terms.

Since the end of 2019, monthly dollar-cost averaging into an STI exchange-traded fund delivered an annualised return of 8.4% by end-Q1, compared with a 10.5% annualised total return for a lump-sum investment.

Gains were led by sector performance, with technology up 17.9% and industrials rising 11.7%. Consumer Goods also advanced 13.6%

In contrast, mid- and small-cap segments were weaker. The FTSE ST Mid & Small Cap Index and the iEdge Singapore Next 50 Index both declined by about 0.7% in total return terms, whilst the FTSE ST Fledgling Index gained 2.5%.

Net institutional inflows focused on Industrials, Consumer Cyclicals and Telecommunications. Share buybacks reached about $560M in the quarter.

Excluding real estate investment trusts, the small- and mid-cap segment saw close to S$470m in net institutional inflows, with average daily turnover rising to around $670m.

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