Let’s dive into the latest updates on the equity portfolio, exploring both its performance metrics and recent strategic moves. This portfolio initially cost S$616,070, and its market value has climbed to S$761,930, leaving us with an unrealized gain of S$145,860—a growth of 23.7%. However, the XIRR for the fiscal year 2024 is slightly down, sitting at -2.1% when considering dividends. Speaking of dividends, this year we collected S$43,280, marking a 7.8% increase from the previous year, and bringing the total cumulative dividends since 2010 to S$324,925. Our cash position, including cash equivalents, stands at S$46,000. Note that these figures are up-to-date as of December 31, 2024.
Moving on to the last quarter of 2024, we took several actions to rebalance the portfolio, primarily focusing on boosting our exposure in Singapore for dividend returns and the US for growth opportunities. We added to our holdings in DBS at S$42, OCBC at S$16.50, PropNex at S$0.91, Sheng Siong at S$1.63, and MINT at S$2.19. Across the Atlantic, we increased positions in Alphabet at US$188 and Nvidia at US$137. On the flip side, we partially divested from KDC at S$2.23 and FLCT at S$0.91.
Reflecting on the quarter, it was one of significant rebalancing. While the performance of REITs proved challenging, our diversified investments in banks and US tech stocks provided a counterbalance, cushioning the blow to our portfolio. The banks’ higher dividend yields were a definite plus and have contributed positively to the overall strategy. The banks have performed robustly, surging in recent weeks, which has certainly helped smoothen the overall portfolio performance challenges posed by the REITs.
The aim moving forward remains to capitalize on dividend yields domestically while seeking high-growth potential from US tech giants. Balancing these strategies should pave the way for a resilient and growth-oriented portfolio as we look towards the future.
