Pandemic-Proof Picks: The Resilient Runners
When the world turned into a lockdown maze, most businesses felt the squeeze—travel bans, closed borders, factory shutters. The fallout cut through almost every sector, leaving only a handful of companies afloat.
These survivors ride on one of two pillars: either they’re tucked into recession‑resistant industries or they enjoy natural monopolies that smooth out market turbulence. Investors looking for a sturdy ride should focus on these standout players, as they’re the most likely to keep the ship steady during the storm.
Three Stocks That’re Sticking Around
- Blue‑Chip Utility Star: With gas, water, and electricity wrapped in a legal blanket, this company keeps its cash flow humming even when the economy stutters.
- Digital Commerce Giant: Shifting into e‑commerce, it’s the go‑to for online shoppers, turning lockdown into growth.
- Health & Bio‑Tech Trailblazer: At the forefront of medical breakthroughs, its role in the pandemic supplies a steady demand boost.
By weaving these resilient stocks into your portfolio, you give yourself a chance to weather the current storm without major damage—plus the bonus of keeping your investments comfortably cheerful.
Singapore Exchange Limited (SGX: S68)
SGX Keeps the Lights On Amid Market Chaos
Singapore’s one‑stop shop for all things trading, Singapore Exchange Limited (SGX), just announced it will remain open during this blockbuster’s so‑called “Covid circuit breaker.” That means if you’re juggling portfolios or just playing it safe, the platform keeps breathing, giving you endless options to hedge and play the game.
Why the Ongoing Open Door Matters
- It keeps risk management tools fully operational.
- Investors and fund managers can still pick from a huge roster of derivatives and securities.
- In a world where prices swing like a kite on a windy day, your ability to stay flexible is golden.
Numbers That Make Your Head Spin (In a Good Way)
- Market turnover in March shot up 124 % YoY, topping $48.2 billion.
- The security daily average value (SDAV) jumped 114 % YoY.
- Derivatives? Those saw a swell of 41 % YoY, raking in 33 million contracts.
What This Means For SGX
With the pandemic still hanging like a bad hand‑shake, the exchange’s dual wings—securities and derivatives—are poised for sustained interest.
More transacting on SGX translates into happier cash flows, jacked‑up profits, and a brighter outlook for the whole group.
Bottom Line
Even when the world’s markets battle volatility, SGX stands firm, keeping the wheels turning so traders can keep chasing those sweet returns—literally and figuratively.
Raffles Medical Group Ltd (SGX: BSL)
RMG’s Bold Leap into China (and the World)
Raffles Medical Group Ltd (RMG) isn’t just your friendly neighbourhood health provider; it’s a full‑fledged “health empire.” From its flagship Raffles Hospital in Bugis to a sprawling clinic network specialising in family medicine and health screening, RMG is everywhere you go.
Standing Up to Covid‑19
At the heart of the pandemic fight, RMG has stepped up with gusto. Their hospitals and clinics became frontline hubs, ensuring that Singapore’s citizens got timely care and that communities stayed safe.
Diving into China’s Health Horizon
Moving beyond the archipelago, RMG has become one of China’s elite private hospital operators. That’s no small feat; the country’s medical landscape is fiercely competitive, and getting pre‑qualified is like earning a VIP pass.
Chongqing: A New Chapter (Since January 2019)
- Operational since early 2019.
- Part of China’s social health insurance scheme – Yibao.
- Offering top‑notch care to a diverse, growing clientele.
Shanghai – The Ticking Clock
Even the best plans get a bump from the virus. RMG’s Shanghai project has hit a snag. The CEO, Dr. Loo, hinted that the grand opening might slip into the third quarter of this year.
Investing in the Future
Initial hiccups? Sure. Their China branches are expected to record startup losses during the first three years. But for investors who’re in it for the long haul, the payoff could be a story worth writing about.
RMG’s expansion shows that a dash of ambition, a sprinkle of cash, and a healthy dose of patience can create a medical marvel that spans continents.
Top Glove Corporation Berhad (SGX: BVA)
Top Glove: The Glove‑Giant That’s Taking the World by Storm
Picture the world’s biggest glove factory—big enough that its products could keep everyone protected from the silly smallpox to the actual Covid‑19 crisis. That’s Top Glove, a company that is, quite literally, “glove‑level” universal. With 2,000 customers in nearly every corner of the planet, the company ships to more than 195 countries, turning it into a global super‑supplier.
How Many Gloves Are We Talking About?
- On 19 March 2020, the group operated 44 factories, churning out a staggering 73.4 billion gloves a year.
- Across the globe, half a trillion people could feel safe thanks to those gloves.
The Pandemic “Pumps Up” Demand
When the world put on a mask in every corner of the globe, the need for nitrile gloves skyrocketed. Top Glove’s order book swelled like a giant clam opening wide, thanks to strong sales rolls in from Europe, the United States, and Asia.
Operational Reality: Full Tilt and Beyond
- The company’s factories are running at almost 100 % capacity—almost literally no room to spare.
- To keep up, Top Glove is adding three new factories and hooking up fresh production lines.
Future Capacity Plans
When those new sites finish up by the end of 2020, you’ll see an extra 8.2 billion gloves per year added. Fast forward to 2021, there will be another 9.5 billion gloves, bringing the total to a record 91.1 billion gloves per year.
Why This Is a Good Time to Eat Your Glove‑Poppin’ Chips
Demand won’t drop any time soon—think of it as a steady stream of people wanting to keep the infection chain at bay. The order book will keep growing, making the future pretty bright for the company.
NOTE: For the latest updates on the coronavirus, remember to stay in the loop through official news outlets. This story is for general information only and does not serve as financial advice.
