Cover Story: 4 factors investors should watch in 4Q
==========

Malaysian equities have performed well in 2024, with FBM KLCI and FBM Top 100 Index up 14.72% and 16.65% year-to-date, closing at 1,668.82 and 12,231.21 points respectively; Fund managers are focusing on the US Federal Reserve's interest rate cuts, the impact on the dollar and ringgit, and domestic developments for investment strategies; The Fed's 50-bps cut on Sept 18 marks the end of an 18-month tightening cycle, benefiting emerging markets; The ringgit strengthened to 4.2 against the US dollar post-rate cut, becoming the world's top-performing currency; Budget 2025 to be tabled on Oct 18 is expected to influence domestic market trends; Foreign funds have significantly contributed to the local market's positive momentum, with net foreign purchases totaling RM2.4 billion from January to February and RM3.7 billion from April to May; Geopolitical risks and external factors remain challenges, but experts advise staying invested while managing risks; Rakuten Trade raised its year-end FBM KLCI target to 1,780 points.

#MalaysianEquities #Investment #UsFederalReserve #Ringgit #ForeignInflows #Budget2025 #GeopoliticalRisks #MarketTrends #FundManagers #EconomicOutlook

https://theedgemalaysia.com/node/727776