With all the recent talk about REIT dividend withholding tax, I think more investors will start looking beyond the usual REIT names for dividend ideas.

For me, Focus Point is one of the names that stands out.

What makes it interesting is that this is not just a dividend story. The business itself is still growing. In FY25, Focus Point delivered record revenue of RM311.4 million and PAT of RM35.0 million, while 4QFY25 was its strongest quarter yet with revenue of RM91.2 million and PAT of RM12.4 million. The group also recorded five consecutive years of revenue growth, and management has now moved to an at least 50% dividend payout policy with quarterly payouts. Past twelve months they have declared a total of 3.563 sen per share. Since their listing, paid a total RM87.2 million of dividends. Market cap also grew by 407.3% over the years, with 15.6 years CAGR of 11.0%.

So when I look at it, this feels like more than just a “high yield” name. You are also looking at a company with improving earnings, a strong core optical business, and a clearer dividend commitment now. With dividend yield at around 7.4%, I think it deserves more attention, especially for investors who are rethinking their dividend portfolio after the REIT tax issue.

Not saying it is a REIT replacement, but as an alternative dividend stock in Bursa, I do think Focus Point looks increasingly attractive.

PARADIGM REIT: A SOLID INVESTMENT IN UNCERTAIN TIMES

In a world where markets are constantly shifting and global uncertainties seem to be the new normal, it’s no surprise that investors are looking for safe and reliable options. As macroeconomic challenges and geopolitical tensions continue to influence markets, defensive stocks, particularly REITs, have become an appealing choice for those seeking stability and predictable returns.

REITs like Paradigm REIT stand out during times of uncertainty because of their ability to provide steady income streams. In a volatile market, the steady cash flow from well-established, income-generating assets becomes even more valuable. Paradigm REIT, with its diverse portfolio of prime retail properties, is a prime example of how a defensive stock can deliver solid performance in times of market turbulence.

A Payout That Rewards Investors

Let’s talk about the payout, because this is where Paradigm REIT shines. The recent distribution of 4.10 sen per unit, with an annualised yield of 7.7%, is backed by the REIT’s strong fundamentals. What sets Paradigm apart is its decision to distribute 99.3% of its distributable income. This shows a commitment to putting more money in the hands of investors. These payouts are not driven by speculative growth but by a consistent, reliable income base that investors can depend on, even in uncertain times.

Strong Tenant Mix for Long-Term Resilience

So, what’s behind Paradigm REIT’s resilience? Paradigm REIT’s income is generated from long-term, reliable tenants—not from short-term market trends or temporary gains. For retail investors, this means consistent and predictable performance, exactly what you need when seeking stability in uncertain times. Paradigm’s focus on well-established malls with a balanced tenant mix ensures that income streams remain stable, even when broader markets are in flux. This is also supported by the high occupancy rates of 98.5% to 99.9% across all its malls, which reflects the stability of income generation across its portfolio.

In today’s unpredictable market, Paradigm REIT offers a rare combination of consistent performance, strong payouts, and a long-term growth strategy. With a proven track record of strong financial performance, a focus on operational efficiency, and a commitment to sustainability, Paradigm REIT provides a unique blend of stability and potential, making it one of the top options for retail investors seeking dependable returns.