MAS Aims to Ease Listed Firms' Concerns Over Sharing Forecasts

It will review rules to encourage them to communicate plans with investors: Minister

- Timothy Goh

Singapore-listed companies will be encouraged to share their plans with investors, including views on their outlook and prospects, said Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) deputy chairman Chee Hong Tat.

While this is commonly done in overseas markets, he noted that there may be genuine concerns about potential legal exposure when companies here provide such information.

Mr Chee, speaking at a Singapore Institute of Directors (SID) conference on Sept 12, said: "MAS will review how to provide greater clarity on our regulatory framework, to facilitate open communication while upholding market integrity.

"We hope this will give companies greater comfort and assurance to have meaningful, forward-looking engagements with your investors."

This is a key focus of a "Value Unlock" package by the MAS-led Equities Market Review Group aimed at helping companies build capabilities, improve investor communications and foster collaborative networks.

"Just as durian lovers today are highly discerning — able to tell the difference between a D24, Mao Shan Wang or a Black Gold — investors too are looking beyond headline earnings," Mr Chee, who is also Minister for National Development, told the audience at Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre.

"When companies combine strategic value creation with effective communication, they create the conditions for investor confidence — this in turn translates into investment dollars, which drives better share price performance and creates greater shareholder value."

He said companies should fine-tune and communicate their strategic plans, hold regular investor engagements and make their growth story "accessible".