In today’s uncertain global environment, Singapore cannot take its security for granted. As the nation marked its 60th year of independence, National Day Parade (NDP) 2025 served as a timely reminder of our commitment to Total Defence — a whole-of-society national defence concept uniting military readiness with civil resilience, economic strength, social unity, digital security, and psychological fortitude.
While the armed forces often take centre stage, guarding our skies, land, and seas, the strength of our economy is just as critical. A strong economy allows Singapore to weather external shocks, protecting livelihoods and sustaining essential services in times of crisis.
This is why economic contingents are a mainstay at every National Day Parade in Singapore. Many of these companies are listed not only on the SGX but also on international exchanges, and play roles that go beyond being a corporate participant.
Their presence on the parade ground underscores a powerful truth: economic resilience is inseparable from national defence. There were 13 economic contingents at NDP 2025, and here are the 9 that are listed companies that we can invest in.
Read Also: How Much Does The National Day Parade Cost The Singapore Taxpayer?
#1 Singapore Telecommunications (SGX: Z74)
Reliable communications infrastructure is a cornerstone of Total Defence, ensuring the flow of information, enabling emergency coordination, and safeguarding digital connectivity in times of disruption.
As Singapore’s largest telecommunications company and one of Asia’s leading telcos, Singtel plays a critical role in keeping the nation connected.
Listed on the SGX, Singtel’s networks support millions of users across mobile, broadband, and enterprise services, while its regional footprint extends Singapore’s digital influence into key Asian markets, including India, Indonesia, Philippines and Thailand.
#2 DBS Group (SGX: D05)
In the framework of Total Defence, financial strength translates directly into national resilience.
DBS, Southeast Asia’s largest bank, is a pillar of Singapore’s financial stability. Traded on the SGX, DBS recently became the first Singapore-listed company to cross the US$100 billion market capitalisation mark in June 2025, underscoring its global financial standing.
Its role in safeguarding deposits, facilitating trade, and enabling businesses to operate smoothly ensures that Singapore’s economy remains robust, even under external pressures.
#3 Keppel (SGX: BN4)
SGX-listed Keppel is a global asset manager and operator with interests in energy, infrastructure, and real estate solutions.
Keppel’s capabilities in sustainable urban development and critical infrastructure align with Singapore’s need for long-term economic security. From data centres to offshore energy solutions, its diverse portfolio helps secure essential services that keep the economy functioning during crises.
Keppel’s infrastructure expertise also strengthens Singapore’s strategic position as a hub for trade and innovation.
#4 Sembcorp Industries (SGX: U96)
A leading energy and urban development group, SGX-listed Sembcorp Industries is central to Singapore’s transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. Its diversified energy portfolio – which includes solar, wind, and conventional power – supports the nation’s energy security, a vital component of economic resilience.
In an unpredictable global energy landscape, Sembcorp’s ability to provide stable, reliable power safeguards industries, homes, and essential services, keeping Singapore’s economy running smoothly.
#5 Seatrium (SGX: 5E2)
Formed through the merger of Sembcorp Marine and Keppel Offshore & Marine, SGX-listed Seatrium is a global player in engineering solutions for the offshore, marine, and energy industries.
Its expertise in shipbuilding, repairs, and offshore platforms contributes to Singapore’s maritime strength – crucial for a small, trade-dependent economy. By ensuring that vessels and offshore assets remain operational and safe, Seatrium supports both commercial shipping and critical supply chains.
#6 SATS (SGX: S58)
SATS is Singapore’s leading provider of food solutions and gateway services, operating across air and sea transport sectors. Listed on the SGX, SATS ensures the smooth handling of cargo, passengers, and in-flight catering, making it integral to Singapore’s role as an international transport hub.
Its capabilities in cold-chain logistics also help secure food supplies – a key aspect of civil and economic defence in times of disruption.
#7 Grab Holdings (NASDAQ: GRAB)
Headquartered in Singapore and listed on the NASDAQ, Grab has grown from a ride-hailing service into a Super App offering transport, food delivery, digital payments, and financial services.
By supporting small businesses, enabling digital transactions, and keeping people and goods moving, Grab strengthens Singapore’s economic adaptability.
Its technological infrastructure also plays into digital defence, a critical layer of Total Defence in the modern era.
#8 PropNex Realty (SGX: OYY)
As Singapore’s largest listed real estate agency on the SGX, PropNex plays a vital role in the property market – an essential component of national wealth and stability. The company’s operations support housing accessibility, property market transparency, and real estate investment confidence.
A stable property sector underpins household financial security, which in turn contributes to broader social and economic resilience.
#9 Shopee Singapore (SEA Limited) (NYSE: SE)
Shopee is the e-commerce arm of Sea Limited, a Singapore-headquartered tech conglomerate listed on the New York Stock Exchange.
Its platforms connect millions of buyers and sellers across the region, enabling trade and providing vital digital infrastructure for commerce.
In challenging times, e-commerce ensures business continuity for SMEs and access to essential goods for households, reinforcing both economic and civil resilience.
