Singapore Exchange's Q3 net profit down 22 per cent at $76m

The Singapore Exchange (SGX) has posted a third-quarter net profit of $76 million, down 22 per cent from the same period a year earlier after what it termed a "challenging" period for its securities business. -- PHOTO: REUTERS
The Singapore Exchange (SGX) has posted a third-quarter net profit of $76 million, down 22 per cent from the same period a year earlier after what it termed a "challenging" period for its securities business. -- PHOTO: REUTERS

The Singapore Exchange (SGX) has posted a third-quarter net profit of $76 million, down 22 per cent from the same period a year earlier after what it termed a "challenging" period for its securities business.

Revenue slipped 13 per cent year-on-year to $166 million.

A total of five listings in the quarter raised $400 million, down from six listings raising $1.8 billion a year earlier.

Secondary equity funds of $700 million were raised, down from $1.5 billion a year earlier.

The bourse operator said it has put in place several initiatives to improve the quality and liquidity in the securities market.

In February, it implemented dynamic circuit breakers as an additional market safeguard and announced a new fee structure covering both clearing and settlement fees, effective June 1.

The firm also introduced a programme for liquidity providers and market makers that will start as the new fee structure takes effect. It introduced new order types in March to improve trade execution.

SGX also issued a joint consultation paper with the Monetary Authority of Singapore, which included proposals for a minimum share price, share collateral requirements, and the introduction of a listings advisory committee and a listings disciplinary committee.

"Altogether, these initiatives will strengthen the quality of our market while ensuring safe and orderly trading," the exchange said.

Earnings per share for the quarter stood at 7.1 cents.

SGX has declared an interim dividend of four cents a share.

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.