Staff at Singapore banks reap big windfall as company stocks shoot up

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Unlike buying shares through the stock market, participating in an employee share purchase plans allows eligible staff to contribute a fixed sum from their monthly salary over a pre-determined period.

Unlike buying shares through the stock market, participating in an ESPP allows eligible employees to contribute a fixed sum from their monthly salary over a predetermined period.

ST ILLUSTRATION: MANNY FRANCISCO

  • Employee share purchase plans (ESPPs) at Singapore banks like OCBC, DBS, and UOB have turned disciplined monthly savings into significant wealth for employees as bank stocks hit record highs.
  • ESPPs offer employees discounted shares, forced savings, and matching contributions, encouraging long-term investment and loyalty, with many participants benefiting from dividends and capital gains over years.
  • While past performance is strong, employees should understand plan details, risks, and conditions, as economic shifts could affect share prices and overall returns.

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SINGAPORE – “Yes, I am in heaven – seventh heaven!” Maggie Liu says with a laugh as the shares of OCBC climbed to record highs.

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