Headline: Singaporean Shares Expected to Diverge Further on Wednesday - SGX

[Para 1: The Lead] Singapore's Straits Trading Index (SGX: ^STI) is poised to decline further on Wednesday, reflecting global market sentiments and domestic economic data. Investors anticipate a downturn following yesterday's economic indicators, which showed a slight contraction in manufacturing output and a decline in consumer confidence. [Para 2-3: Supporting details & Context] According to preliminary data, the manufacturing sector contracted by 1.5% in January compared to the previous month, dampening market optimism. Consumer confidence also fell, signaling reduced spending. The Straits Trading Index closed 1.2% lower on Tuesday, at 3,450 points. Analysts predict the index could drop to 3,400 points by the end of Wednesday's trading session, influenced by global equity markets and geopolitical tensions.