CGS-CIMB has published a 9-page report with an "overweight" rating on the construction sector in Singapore. Excerpts:
Analysts: Ong Khang Chuen, CFA & Lim Siew Khee
● Singapore’s construction demand is expected to remain strong in 2020F, with BCA forecasting a range of S$28bn-33bn. The forecast for 2020 excludes any construction contracts by the two integrated resorts (IRs), Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa, pending confirmation on the timeline and phasing of expansion projects.
● On the other hand, private sector construction demand may moderate, in view of the likely continued global economic uncertainties and current overhang in the supply of private residential housing units, according to BCA. |
Higher demand for construction materials in 2020F
● We see near-term catalysts for building material companies (including steel rebars and concrete suppliers) as BCA expects accelerated demand growth in 2020F.
BCA projects steel rebar demand to grow to 1.5m-1.7m tonnes in 2020F (2019: 1.4m tonnes) while ready-mixed concrete demand rise to 14m-15m m3 (2019: 12.5m m3).
Boustead Projects Limited |
BRC Asia Ltd |
Yongnam Holdings |
We believe Boustead Project’s two ongoing public sector projects could support its earnings growth through FY21F. We also think BP could be ready for a REIT listing as early as 2020F. |
We like BRC for its market leadership in Singapore’s reinforced steel industry, earnings visibility riding on the recovery in home market demand, and improving balance sheet strength. |
Yongnam’s orderbook has recovered strongly in 2019. With the rollout of North South Corridor and Changi East projects, we forecast Yongnam to return to profitability in 2H20F. |
*CGS-CIMB upped its target price for BRC to $2.05 in a separate report on 9 Jan 2020.
Full report here.