KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- One SGX stock quietly delivers stable dividends while most investors chase REITs.
- Cash flow is regulated, predictable, and tied to Singapore’s digital backbone.
- For 2026, income-focused investors may be seriously underestimating this counter.
The stock most investors scroll past — but shouldn’t
Everyone talks about bank stocks and REITs when dividends come up. But honestly speaking, one SGX-listed counter keeps getting ignored — even though it pays steady income and operates a near-essential service in Singapore.
For 2026, when interest rates are no longer the big story, boring and predictable may actually win.
NetLink NBN Trust: not exciting, but quietly powerful
NetLink NBN Trust owns and operates Singapore’s nationwide fibre network infrastructure. No flashy expansion stories. No overseas risk. Just regulated access fees paid by telcos every single year.
Because of that, its cash flow is stable, visible, and not dependent on economic cycles in the same way banks or developers are.
Most retail investors skip it because the share price doesn’t “move”. But for dividends, movement isn’t the point.
| Stock | Dividend Yield (Approx.) | Risk Level | Income Stability |
|---|---|---|---|
| NetLink NBN Trust | ~5.5% | Low | Very High |
| DBS Group | ~5.0% | Medium | Medium |
| CapitaLand Integrated Trust | ~4.8% | Medium | Medium |
| Keppel DC REIT | ~4.5% | Medium | Medium |
Why NetLink gets ignored on the SGX
The biggest reason is simple: no excitement.
There are no big acquisitions, no surprise earnings spikes, and no overseas growth narrative. Headlines rarely mention it, and social media investors don’t talk about it.
But for dividend investors, this is exactly the appeal. Revenue is regulated, demand is non-cyclical, and Singapore’s fibre network isn’t going anywhere.
Dividend safety matters more in 2026
By 2026, many Singaporeans are less focused on capital gains and more on monthly or yearly income. CPF Life payouts, rising living costs, and conservative portfolios all point in the same direction.
NetLink’s distribution isn’t dependent on loan growth, property cycles, or tourism recovery. As long as Singapore uses fibre internet — which is basically guaranteed — cash keeps coming in.
At around S$0.85–S$0.90 per unit (range-based pricing), the yield remains attractive without taking on aggressive risk.
Worth it or not for most Singaporeans?
If you want fast gains, this is not for you.
But if you’re building a boring-but-reliable income portfolio for 2026 and beyond, NetLink NBN Trust deserves more attention than it gets.
No need to overthink. Sometimes the best dividend stock is the one nobody is talking about.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NetLink NBN Trust suitable for retirees in Singapore?
Yes. Its regulated income and low volatility make it suitable for retirees seeking predictable dividends rather than capital gains.
Can NetLink increase dividends over time?
Dividend growth is modest, but stability is the key strength. Any increase usually tracks long-term fibre usage and regulated pricing adjustments.
Is this better than bank stocks for dividends?
Banks may offer higher upside, but NetLink offers more predictable income with lower exposure to economic cycles.
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