It can be thrilling and intimidating for newcomers to begin the exciting path of stock market investing. Given the possibility of substantial financial rewards, it’s critical to approach stock research with a knowledgeable and strategic perspective.
Here we give you five essential steps for conducting in-depth stock research, ensuring you make wise choices. We also have a financial glossary, which demystifies complicated concepts into clear, understandable explanations, to help make learning easier.
By mastering the fundamentals of stock research and comprehending essential ideas in the local context, you can develop the self-assurance necessary to negotiate the dynamic world of stocks and set yourself on the path to attaining your investing objectives.
Recognise the fundamentals of stock research
Learn some significant terminology in the financial glossary before starting stock research.
Stock
Stock is a part of a company’s ownership. Owning stock makes you a stakeholder with a stake in the company’s resources and profits.
Trading capitalisation
Trading capitalisation is the sum of the market value of a corporation’s outstanding stock shares. It is figured out by dividing the stock rate by the total outstanding shares.
Dividend
A dividend is a premium made to shareholders from a company’s profits. Dividends are typically paid regularly, and the amount can change depending on how well the business is doing.
Price-to-earnings ratio (P/E Ratio)
Price earning ratio is a valuation measure that contrasts a firm’s current share price with its earnings per share (EPS). Investors can use it to determine whether a stock is over or undervalued.
Volatility
This refers to how much a stock’s price fluctuates over time. Low-volatility equities are steady, but highly volatile stocks may change prices frequently.
Define your investment objectives
Before beginning stock research, specify your investment goals. Consider your time frame and risk tolerance to match your investment plan with your financial objectives.
For instance, if you’re a cautious investor looking for a solid source of income, you can research reputable companies that pay dividends, such as Singapore Telecommunications Limited (Singtel). Currently, a 4% dividend yield makes Singtel a desirable alternative for income-focused investors.
Perform a fundamental analysis
Analysing a company’s fundamentals involves assessing its performance, financial standing, and prospects for the future. During a fundamental analysis, it is essential to take into account the following:
Sales and earnings growth
Look for businesses that have consistently increased their sales and earnings. Companies in Singapore’s technology industry, like Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd (ST Engineering), have demonstrated consistent growth, which may signal a promising investment opportunity.
The balance sheet
To determine a company’s financial stability, look at its assets, liabilities, and equity. Financial solid standing enables businesses like DBS Group Holdings Ltd (DBS) to withstand economic downturns and maintain profitability.
Management and leadership
Examine the management team and their history of operating the organisation. A practical and seasoned management team can fuel the business’s success.
Industry and competitive landscape
Examine the company’s competitive environment and the industry in which it works. Businesses in growing industries, such as the healthcare sector, may offer tremendous growth potential, with players like Singapore Medical Group Ltd (SMG).
Market sentiment and technical analysis
Technical analysis involves examining historical market data, primarily price and volume, to find trends that can be used to forecast future changes in stock price. Understanding fundamental technical indicators can offer insightful information, even though it may be less crucial for long-term investors.
It’s also important to pay attention to market sentiment and news. A company’s stock price may increase in response to good news, such as announcing collaborations or new products. On the other hand, unfavourable information or economic circumstances can cause brief drops.
Spread your portfolio out
A significant risk management tactic is diversification. Spread your assets across many sectors and industries rather than investing all your money in one stock. Doing this will lessen the effect that a single stock’s disappointing performance will have on your entire portfolio.
Conclusion
An essential component of effective investing is stock research. Beginners can confidently enter the stock market by following these five steps, comprehending the financial glossary, and looking into case studies. For a well-rounded and potentially lucrative investing experience, keep in mind to establish precise investment objectives, carry out in-depth fundamental analysis, take technical indicators into account, and diversify your portfolio. Always conduct your due diligence and seek professional guidance before making financial decisions.
You may be interested in: Can You Get Rich By Investing In Stocks?