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October 17, 2023

Business

ETFs in Singapore: Exploring new horizons for experienced traders

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have emerged as a dynamic and versatile investment instrument in the financial landscape of Singapore. Experienced traders in the Lion City are increasingly drawn to the diverse opportunities that ETFs offer.

This article navigates the world of ETF trading in Singapore, shedding light on the innovative strategies and horizons experienced traders are exploring.

Beyond traditional asset classes: Accessing global markets

One of the significant advantages of ETFs for experienced Saxo Bank Group traders in Singapore is the ability to access a wide array of asset classes and markets beyond traditional equities. ETFs provide exposure to diverse assets such as bonds, commodities, real estate, and even niche markets like cryptocurrencies. This diversity allows traders to craft portfolios that can weather various market conditions.

For instance, during periods of market uncertainty, experienced traders may allocate a portion of their portfolio to fixed-income ETFs, providing stability and income. Conversely, in times of economic growth and optimism, they might turn to equity ETFs to capture potential capital appreciation.

Leveraging intraday trading: Capitalising on market volatility

In Singapore’s bustling financial hub, traders appreciate the intraday trading capabilities of ETFs. Unlike traditional mutual funds, ETFs can be bought and sold throughout the trading day at market prices. This real-time liquidity allows traders to react swiftly to market developments and capitalise on intraday price movements.

Experienced traders often use intraday trading to implement short-term strategies, such as day trading or scalping, where positions are opened and closed within the same trading session. ETFs’ liquidity and transparency make them well-suited for these strategies.

However, intraday trading requires a deep understanding of market dynamics, technical analysis, and risk management. Traders must be prepared to react swiftly to changing conditions while adhering to their trading plan.

Thematic investing: Riding megatrends and innovations

Thematic investing through ETFs has gained traction among experienced traders in Singapore. This approach involves capitalising on long-term megatrends and innovations shaping various industries and sectors.

For instance, traders may invest in thematic ETFs focused on disruptive technologies like artificial intelligence, clean energy, or e-commerce. These ETFs offer exposure to companies leading the charge in these transformative areas.

Thematic investing allows traders to align their portfolios with their convictions and beliefs about the future direction of industries and technologies. It also offers a unique opportunity to diversify beyond traditional sector-based strategies.

Smart beta strategies: Seeking enhanced returns

Smart beta ETFs, factor-based or strategic beta ETFs, employ rules-based strategies to capture specific factors that drive returns, such as value, momentum, or low volatility. Experienced traders in Singapore have embraced intelligent beta ETFs to enhance portfolio returns.

For example, a trader seeking value exposure may invest in a smart beta ETF that screens and selects stocks with attractive valuation metrics. Similarly, a trader interested in low-volatility strategies may opt for an ETF focusing on stocks with historically lower price fluctuations.

Smart beta ETFs offer traders a systematic approach to factor-based investing, which can help them achieve specific objectives and reduce the impact of emotional biases in decision-making.

Risk management with ETF options: Protecting portfolios

Experienced traders in Singapore often employ options on ETFs as a risk management tool. ETF options allow traders to hedge against potential market downturns or generate additional income from their existing ETF holdings.

For example, traders may purchase options on ETFs to protect their portfolios in a market decline. This strategy provides insurance, allowing traders to limit potential losses while retaining ownership of the underlying ETF.

Conversely, traders can sell covered call options on their ETF positions, generating premium income while potentially earning additional returns if the ETF’s price remains stable or experiences modest gains.

ESG investing: Embracing sustainable ETFs

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing has gained significant prominence globally, and Singapore is no exception. Experienced traders increasingly turn to ESG-themed ETFs to align their investments with ethical and sustainable principles. These ETFs screen and select companies based on their ESG performance, promoting responsible investing.

For instance, an experienced trader may opt for an ESG ETF that excludes companies involved in controversial industries like tobacco or weapons manufacturing while favouring those with robust sustainability practices. ESG ETFs allow traders to integrate their values into their investment decisions while potentially benefiting from the long-term growth prospects of socially responsible companies.

All things considered

ETFs have carved out a prominent space in the portfolios of experienced traders in Singapore, offering a spectrum of opportunities to explore new horizons in trading and investing. Beyond traditional asset classes, intraday trading capabilities, thematic investing, innovative beta strategies, and risk management with ETF options have become integral components of the strategies employed by seasoned traders.

As Singapore’s financial markets continue to evolve, experienced traders remain at the forefront, adapting and innovating their approaches to leverage ETFs’ vast potential. By diversifying portfolios, reacting to market volatility, riding megatrends, enhancing returns, and safeguarding investments, they actively shape the future of ETF trading in Lion City.

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