Rising bond yields are triggering a tech sell-off, but S-Reits could be the casualty nobody notices

Singapore-listed real estate investment trusts (S-Reits) have been lagging behind blue-chip stocks by nearly 30 percentage points this year, as the tech sector faces another decline. The latest tech sell-off is driven by rising bond yields and mounting concerns over Middle East tensions. On August 18, the 30-year US Treasury yield reached its highest level since June 2007, a worrying sign for investors.

Similarly, 10-year yields have climbed above pre-February Iran strike levels. The fallout from the tech sector's struggles has been well-documented: growth stocks are known to be sensitive to higher discount rates. This latest tech sell-off is generating plenty of commentary, painting a picture of rapid, severe, and dramatic changes in the market.

Singapore's telecommunications sector is also facing challenges, with a fierce price war among telcos squeezing earnings. Analysts suggest that a potential StarHub-M1 merger could be a solution to these issues. Meanwhile, Japan Home is reportedly closing outlets, with staff stating that Valu$ is taking over their operations.

The BYD electric vehicle company has disrupted Singapore's car market, but analysts now warn that the company's strategy may be faltering. Finally, Singapore's asset management industry may gain an edge over Hong Kong through a broader push in asset management.