Building long-term resilience
==========

The Malaysian ringgit's strengthening reflects deeper structural dynamics; attributed to Bank Negara Malaysia's effective inflation management; National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) positions Malaysia for energy-demanding sectors; global financial landscape impacts ringgit's appreciation; U.S. Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions influence capital flow; Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF) is crucial for sustainable economic growth; portfolio investments are volatile and transient; Malaysia must balance short-term financial inflows with long-term investments; geopolitical tensions in the Middle East could affect oil prices and global markets.

#MalaysianEconomy #Ringgit #BankNegaraMalaysia #Gfcf #Investment #FederalReserve #Netr #Geopolitics #Inflation #FinancialMarkets

https://www.nst.com.my/business/insight/2024/10/1119298/building-long-term-resilience%C2%A0 

 Focus on economy, not political noise
==========

Malaysia's economy is thriving with the ringgit's surge against the US dollar; foreign investments are increasing, with a proposed US$14.7 billion investment from US tech giants; tourist inflow is nearing pre-pandemic levels, bolstered by visa-free travel with China; Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasizes economic reforms, including a RM4 billion annual savings from diesel subsidy rationalization; the government faces challenges in further subsidy reductions; maintaining political stability is crucial for economic recovery; the article warns against being distracted by political issues, echoing Bill Clinton's phrase 'It's the economy, stupid!'

#Malaysia #Economy #Investment #Tourism #PoliticalStability #Subsidy #ForeignInvestment #AnwarIbrahim #Ringgit #Geopolitics

https://www.nst.com.my/opinion/columnists/2024/10/1118276/focus-economy-not-political-noise 

 US, Europe, China & other key Asian economies to provide FDI traction in Malaysia: UBS
==========

Malaysia's FDI inflow outlook remains positive for H2 2024; UBS Global Research cites traction from China, Europe, US, Japan, and South Korea; FDI concentrated in electrical and electronics sector, with interest in chemicals, green technology, machinery, and metal fabrication; Malaysia's political stability and fiscal responsibility attract investors; potential for Malaysia to become a regional data centre hub; implementation of global minimum tax in 2025 will have negligible impact on FDI competition; Malaysia's 40% local content criteria aligns with WTO standards; Malaysia to chair ASEAN in 2025, improving intra-trade opportunities; potential restart of negotiations with EU on EFTA Economic Partnership Agreement.

#Fdi #Malaysia #Ubs #Economy #Investment #Asean #Trade #Technology #Electronics #GlobalTax

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/10/1117776/us-europe-china-other-key-asian-economies-provide-fdi-traction 

 OPR likely unchanged: Ringgit at 4.25 vs US dollar by year-end - Kenanga
==========

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) is expected to maintain the overnight policy rate (OPR) unchanged for the next 12 to 15 months due to subdued inflation and a stable economic outlook; Kenanga Investment Bank revised its year-end forecast for the ringgit to 4.25 against the US dollar from 4.42, citing favorable yield differentials and anticipated US Federal Reserve interest rate cuts; the market now expects two 25 basis point cuts by the Fed this year following strong US labor data in September; external risks such as geopolitical tensions and a potential US economic downturn remain concerns.

#BankNegaraMalaysia #Opr #Ringgit #Kenanga #UsDollar #EconomicOutlook #InterestRates #Inflation #GeopoliticalRisks #CurrencyForecast

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/10/1116602/opr-likely-unchanged-ringgit-425-vs-us-dollar-year-end-kenanga 

 Focus on agritech investments in Budget 2025 to attract high-net worth individuals - Economist
==========

Malaysia should prioritize agritech investments in Budget 2025 to attract diverse investors, particularly family offices; Mohd Sedek Jantan, head of investment research at UOB Kay Hian Wealth Advisors, emphasizes the need for tax breaks and subsidies for agricultural R&D; Budget 2025 is set to be tabled on October 18, 2024; Malaysia has 754 ultra-high-net-worth individuals with a total net worth of US$30 million, expected to grow to 1,015 by 2028; globally, there are 426,330 ultra-high-net-worth individuals with a total wealth of US$49 trillion in 2023; agritech is crucial for sustainable agriculture amid climate change; traditional farming is insufficient to meet food demands; innovations like precision farming are vital; a stronger ringgit could enhance Malaysia's appeal as an investment destination; public-private partnerships and effective marketing are essential for attracting foreign investment.

#Agritech #Investment #Budget2025 #Highnetworth #Sustainability #Malaysia #FamilyOffices #EconomicPolicy #ClimateChange #Agriculture

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/10/1115545/focus-agritech-investments-budget-2025-attract-high-net-worth 

 Ringgit seen holding steady against US dollar next week
==========

The ringgit is expected to trade between 4.21 to 4.22 against the US dollar next week; US non-farm payrolls (NFP) rose by 254,000 jobs in September; US unemployment rate decreased to 4.1% from 4.2%; Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid indicates stronger US jobs data may enhance dollar appeal; SPI Asset Management's Stephen Innes notes rising oil prices support US dollar strength; ringgit hit its highest level since April 2021 at 4.09 earlier in the week; on a Friday-to-Friday basis, ringgit fell to 4.2155/2240 from 4.1230/1280; ringgit traded lower against euro and British pound but gained against Japanese yen; ringgit slipped against ASEAN currencies including Singapore dollar and Philippine peso.

#Ringgit #UsDollar #Economy #BankMuamalat #NonfarmPayrolls #StephenInnes #MohdAfzanizamAbdulRashid #Currency #ForeignExchange #Asean

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/10/1115464/ringgit-seen-holding-steady-against-us-dollar-next-week 

 'Narrow-minded thinking will sink us', says Anwar
==========

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim warns against narrow-minded thinking and hasty decisions as threats to national progress; he emphasizes the need for unity, understanding, patience, and wisdom in decision-making; Anwar links national unity to economic prosperity, stating it is essential for building a sustainable economy; he made these remarks during the opening of the 64th International Al-Quran Recital and Memorisation Assembly on October 5, 2024; the assembly features 92 participants from 71 countries, with events running until October 12, 2024.

#AnwarIbrahim #Malaysia #Unity #Economy #QuranRecital #InternationalAssembly #PublicPolicy #Islam #Leadership #Narrowmindedness

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/10/1115389/narrow-minded-thinking-will-sink-us-says-anwar 

 Ringgit reverses recent losses to close slightly higher against US dollar
==========

The ringgit closed at 4.2155/2240 against the US dollar on October 4, 2024, recovering from previous losses; it rose despite geopolitical risks in the Middle East and anticipation of US non-farm payrolls data; Brent crude oil price increased to US$78.3 per barrel; Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd's chief economist Dr. Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid noted the conflict in the Middle East as a key risk factor; US non-farm payrolls expected to show an increase to 147,000 jobs in September from 142,000; the ringgit was mixed against other currencies, rising against the euro and Singapore dollar but lower against the yen and British pound.

#Ringgit #UsDollar #Economy #Malaysia #Forex #Banking #Geopolitics #NonfarmPayrolls #BrentCrude #Currency

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/10/1114980/ringgit-reverses-recent-losses-close-slightly-higher-against-us 

 Dollar hits one-month peak to yen as Fed seen taking time with rate cuts
==========

The dollar rose to a one-month high of 146.575 yen on October 3, 2024, supported by strong U.S. job market data; private payrolls increased by 143,000 jobs in September, raising expectations for upcoming non-farm payrolls; Japan's new prime minister indicated no readiness for additional rate hikes, leading to yen selling pressure; the dollar index reached 101.70, a three-week high; traders estimate 34.6% odds of a 50 basis-point rate cut on November 7, down from 57.4% a week prior; geopolitical tensions arose after Iran launched 180 ballistic missiles into Israel, affecting market sentiment.

#Dollar #Yen #FederalReserve #InterestRates #Geopolitics #Payrolls #Japan #Economy #MarketTrends #Currency

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/10/1114207/dollar-hits-one-month-peak-yen-fed-seen-taking-time-rate-cuts 

 Google to invest US$1bil in Thailand
==========

Google plans to invest US$1 billion in Thailand to build digital infrastructure, including a new data centre in Chonburi and cloud facilities in Bangkok; this investment is expected to support 14,000 jobs and add US$4 billion to Thailand's GDP by 2029; the announcement follows a meeting between Ruth Porat, Google's president, and Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra; the investment aims to meet growing demand for cloud computing in Southeast Asia and comes after Microsoft's announcement of Thailand's first data centre region in May 2024; Thailand's digital economy could contribute 30% of GDP by 2027.

#Google #Thailand #Investment #DataCentre #CloudComputing #RuthPorat #PaetongtarnShinawatra #Gdp #Jobs #SoutheastAsia

https://www.nst.com.my/world/world/2024/10/1113195/google-invest-us1bil-thailand 

 Oil prices climb on fears of Middle East conflict escalation
==========

Oil prices increased for the second consecutive session on September 30, 2024, amid escalating concerns over supply disruptions in the Middle East due to Israel's intensified attacks on Hamas and Iranian-backed forces. Brent crude futures for November delivery rose by US$1.12 to US$73.10 per barrel, while December futures climbed US$1.04 to US$72.58. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude increased by 93 cents to US$69.11. The rise in prices follows a week where Brent fell approximately 3% and WTI fell around 5% due to demand worries in China. Analysts express concerns that a wider conflict could impact oil supplies, particularly involving Iran, a key OPEC member. Recent Israeli airstrikes have targeted Hezbollah and Houthi groups, further escalating tensions. Market analysts predict that oil prices will be influenced by supply-demand dynamics and upcoming OPEC+ supply cuts on December 1, 2024. Additionally, data indicated a contraction in China's manufacturing activity for the fifth consecutive month, raising further concerns about demand.

#OilPrices #MiddleEast #Hamas #Israel #Opec #BrentCrude #Wti #Iran #Conflict #MarketAnalysis

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1112881/oil-prices-climb-fears-middle-east-conflict-escalation 

 Ringgit extends gains to 4.1150 to the US dollar
==========

On September 30, 2024, the ringgit was trading at 4.1150/1280 against the US dollar, up from 4.1230/1280 the previous Friday; Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr. Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid indicated ongoing positive sentiment towards the ringgit; economists predict the ringgit could strengthen to RM3.80 by the end of 2024.

#Ringgit #UsDollar #Economy #Malaysia #Currency #Finance #Banking #MarketTrends #Economists #DrMohdAfzanizam

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1112698/ringgit-extends-gains-41150-us-dollar 

 Wall Street closes higher on strong US economic data
==========

On September 26, 2024, Wall Street closed higher with the S&P 500 reaching a record closing high of 5,745.37, up 23.11 points (0.40%). The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 260.36 points (0.62%) to 42,175.11, and the Nasdaq Composite increased by 108.09 points (0.60%) to 18,190.29. Micron Technology shares surged 15.78% after projecting strong first-quarter revenue, contributing to a 3.77% rise in the Philadelphia SE Semiconductor index. Weekly jobless claims fell, indicating a steady labor market, and GDP growth was confirmed at 3% for Q2 2024. Seven of the 11 S&P 500 sectors rose, led by materials (+1.97%). Energy stocks fell by 2% due to declining crude prices. Fed Governor Adriana Kugler expressed support for recent monetary policy easing, with investors favoring a potential 50-basis point rate cut. U.S.-listed Chinese firms saw gains, with Li Auto up 7.13% and Alibaba up 10.08%. Overall, advancing issues outnumbered decliners by a 1.94-to-1 ratio on the NYSE.

#WallStreet #S&p500 #DowJones #Nasdaq #MicronTechnology #EconomicData #JoblessClaims #Gdp #FederalReserve #StockMarket

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1111375/wall-street-closes-higher-strong-us-economic-data 

 The ringgit's uptrend: Why it may continue to strengthen
==========

The ringgit reached 4.12 against the US dollar on September 25, 2024, marking a multi-year high; Malaysia's GDP grew by 5.9% in Q2 2024, exceeding expectations; Bank Negara Malaysia Governor Datuk Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour attributes the rise to a robust economic outlook and structural reforms; China's yuan strengthened to 6.9946 per dollar, impacting Malaysia's economy; US Federal Reserve cut interest rates by 50 basis points, weakening the US dollar; Foreign investments into Malaysia's stock market increased, further boosting the ringgit; The ringgit appreciated against major currencies including the euro and British pound; Continued US economic softness may lead to further Fed rate cuts, potentially strengthening the ringgit.

#Ringgit #UsDollar #MalaysiaEconomy #BankNegaraMalaysia #GdpGrowth #ForeignInvestment #UsFederalReserve #CurrencyStrength #EconomicOutlook #ChinaYuan

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1110515/ringgits-uptrend-why-it-may-continue-strengthen 

 Oil edges up following US rate cut move, geopolitical concerns
==========

Oil prices increased slightly on September 23, 2024, due to concerns over Middle East conflicts affecting supply and expectations from the U.S. interest rate cut the previous week. Brent crude futures rose by 20 cents to US$74.69 a barrel, while U.S. crude futures increased by 22 cents to US$71.22. The U.S. Federal Reserve cut interest rates by half a percentage point on September 18, 2024, which analysts believe may support demand despite worries about a slowing job market. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iranian-backed militias has raised concerns about further escalation in the region, impacting oil supply.

#Oil #UsFederalReserve #MiddleEast #BrentCrude #GeopoliticalConcerns #InterestRates #HurricaneFrancine #MarketAnalysis #EnergyDemand #Conflict

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1109416/oil-edges-following-us-rate-cut-move-geopolitical-concerns 

 Ringgit seen to trade at 4.15-4.20 range
==========

The ringgit is expected to trade stronger, projected in the 4.15-4.20 range against the US dollar; it surged to its highest level since March 2022, becoming the world's top-performing currency last week; analysts at Kenanga Research noted a 12.67% rise against the US dollar in six months; the ringgit closed at 4.2005/2070 on September 22, 2024, following a 50 basis points rate cut by the US Federal Reserve on September 18, 2024; the ringgit also strengthened against the euro, British pound, and Japanese yen; Kenanga Research revised its end-2024 forecast for the US dollar-ringgit to 4.25; SPI Asset Management's Stephen Innes indicated a continued bullish bias for the ringgit, expecting a trading range of 4.1875 to 4.2025.

#Ringgit #UsDollar #KenangaResearch #StephenInnes #FederalReserve #Currency #Economy #Malaysia #Forex #InterestRates

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1109364/ringgit-seen-trade-415-420-range 

 Audiences summon 'Beetlejuice' to top of N. America box office for third week
==========

The film 'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,' directed by Tim Burton, has topped the North American box office for the third consecutive week, earning US$26 million from September 20-22, 2024; Michael Keaton reprises his role as Beetlejuice, alongside Winona Ryder, Catherine O'Hara, Jenna Ortega, Justin Theroux, Monica Bellucci, and Willem Dafoe; 'Transformers One' debuted in second place with US$25 million; 'Speak No Evil' earned US$5.9 million in third place; 'Never Let Go' and 'Deadpool & Wolverine' rounded out the top five with US$4.5 million and US$3.9 million respectively.

#Beetlejuice #TimBurton #MichaelKeaton #BoxOffice #Transformers #Horror #Comedy #Film #Hollywood #Entertainment

https://www.nst.com.my/world/world/2024/09/1109321/audiences-summon-beetlejuice-top-n-america-box-office-third-week 

 Ringgit set to continue bullish bias versus US dollar next week
==========

The ringgit is expected to trade between 4.1875 and 4.2025 against the US dollar next week; SPI Asset Management's Stephen Innes attributes the ringgit's rise to the US Federal Reserve's recent 50 basis points rate cut, the first in four years; The ringgit has appreciated 12.67% against the US dollar over the past six months; The local currency closed at 4.2005/2070 on September 20, 2024, up from 4.2975/3050 the previous week; The ringgit also strengthened against the euro, British pound, Japanese yen, and various ASEAN currencies; Bank Negara governor Datuk Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour noted that Malaysia's positive economic outlook and structural reforms are contributing to the ringgit's recovery.

#Ringgit #UsDollar #StephenInnes #Fed #Economy #BankNegara #Currency #Malaysia #FinancialMarkets #InterestRates

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1108982/ringgit-set-continue-bullish-bias-versus-us-dollar-next-week 

 Trump refuses Harris plan for October debate
==========

Kamala Harris challenged Donald Trump to a debate on October 23, 2024; Trump declined, stating it was 'too late' due to early voting starting in some states; Harris's campaign chair Jen O'Malley Dillon emphasized the need for another debate; Trump, at a rally in North Carolina, expressed interest in debating but criticized CNN's fairness; Harris accused Trump of hypocrisy over abortion issues, linking him to a Georgia abortion ban; Trump faces criminal charges related to the 2020 election aftermath; the race is tight, hinging on seven battleground states.

#Trump #Harris #Debate #Election #2024 #Cnn #Abortion #NorthCarolina #Politics #Us

https://www.nst.com.my/world/world/2024/09/1108871/trump-refuses-harris-plan-october-debate 

 Brazil's online gambling craze may be hitting consumer spending
==========

Brazilians are increasingly engaging in online sports betting, with 68.2 billion reais (US$12.2 billion) spent on foreign betting platforms in the year ending June 2024; this trend is linked to lower-than-expected growth in consumer spending, as noted by Brazilian central bank governor-in-waiting Gabriel Galipolo; family spending on gambling has risen to 1.9% of income in 2024, doubling since 2018; households have reduced spending on essentials from 63% to 57% of their income since 2021; the government expects to collect 3.4 billion reais from license requests; 113 registration requests were made by companies including MGM Resorts and Caesars Sportsbook by the August 20 deadline; lower-income groups, making up 79% of bettors, are particularly affected; studies indicate a negative impact on credit scores and increased bankruptcy likelihood in regions with legalized online betting.

#Brazil #OnlineGambling #ConsumerSpending #SportsBetting #Economy #GabrielGalipolo #MgmResorts #CaesarsSportsbook #FinancialImpact #Addiction

https://www.nst.com.my/opinion/columnists/2024/09/1108548/brazils-online-gambling-craze-may-be-hitting-consumer-spending 

 Oil prices set to end week higher after US rate cut
==========

Brent futures trading at US$73.69 a barrel, down 0.3% on Friday; gained 4.3% this week; U.S. crude at US$72.01 a barrel, up 6 cents, with weekly gains of 4.8%; U.S. central bank cut interest rates by 0.5% on September 18, 2024; crude inventories in the U.S. fell to a one-year low; counter-seasonal oil market deficit of 400,000 bpd expected to support prices in $70-$75 range; rising tensions in the Middle East affecting prices; weak demand from China's economy impacting market.

#OilPrices #UsRateCut #BrentFutures #CrudeOil #EconomicImpact #MiddleEastTensions #ChinaEconomy #MarketTrends #InterestRates #GlobalStockpiles

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1108060/oil-prices-set-end-week-higher-after-us-rate-cut 

 S&P 500 surges to record high close on euphoria over Fed rate cut
==========

On September 19, 2024, the S&P 500 surged 1.70% to a record high close of 5,713.64 points following a 50 basis point interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve. The Dow Jones Industrial Average also reached a record high, closing above 42,000 for the first time at 42,025.19 points. Major stocks like Tesla, Apple, and Meta Platforms saw significant gains, with Tesla rising over 7%. The Nasdaq increased by 2.51% to 18,013.98 points. Fed Chair Jerome Powell expressed confidence in the economy, indicating potential future rate cuts. BofA Global Research revised its forecast to expect a total of 75 basis points in rate cuts by year-end. The small-cap Russell 2000 index rose 2.1%. Advancing stocks outnumbered declining ones by a 3.8-to-one ratio, with heavy trading volume of 12.3 billion shares.

#S&p500 #DowJones #FederalReserve #InterestRates #StockMarket #RecordHigh #Tesla #Apple #Nvidia #EconomicOutlook

https://www.nst.com.my/business/corporate/2024/09/1108040/sp-500-surges-record-high-close-euphoria-over-fed-rate-cut 

 Ringgit strengthens to 4.2410 against US dollar, highest since February 2023
==========

The ringgit rose to 4.2410/2460 against the US dollar on September 18, 2024, marking its highest close since February 2, 2023; it improved from the previous day's close of 4.2535/2645; Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid anticipates a 50 basis point cut in the Fed Fund Rate (FFR) that evening; the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) is currently at 2.50 percent; the ringgit's strength is attributed to expectations of US rate cuts making ringgit-denominated assets attractive; the Bank of Indonesia cut its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to 6.00 percent; the ringgit also appreciated against other major currencies including the British pound, Japanese yen, euro, Singapore dollar, Thai baht, Philippine peso, and Indonesian rupiah.

#Ringgit #UsDollar #BankNegara #InterestRates #Economy #Malaysia #CurrencyExchange #ForeignInvestment #MohdAfzanizamAbdulRashid #BankIndonesia

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1107395/ringgit-strengthens-42410-against-us-dollar-highest-february-2023 

 Japan's exports slow sharply, machinery orders shrink in blow to economic recovery
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Japan's export growth slowed to 5.6% year-on-year in August 2024, below the expected 10% increase; shipments to the U.S. fell 0.7%, marking the first decline in three years, with auto sales down 14.2%; machinery orders unexpectedly shrank 0.1% in July, contrary to a 0.5% rise forecast; overall shipments decreased 2.7% from the previous year; trade deficit stood at 695.3 billion yen ($4.90 billion); Takeshi Minami, chief economist at Norinchukin Research Institute, noted that weak global economic momentum is impacting Japan's recovery prospects.

#Japan #Exports #Economy #MachineryOrders #TradeDeficit #Us #China #TakeshiMinami #EconomicRecovery #August2024

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1107116/japans-exports-slow-sharply-machinery-orders-shrink-blow-economic 

 Ringgit might hit 4.25 per US dollar by year-end, but more than US rate cuts will affect its strength
==========

The ringgit, Asia's best-performing currency in 2024, could reach 4.25 against the US dollar by year-end, influenced by US Federal Reserve rate cuts starting this week; the extent of the cuts, Fed's guidance, US economic strength, and upcoming presidential elections are key factors. Bank Muamalat's chief economist Dr. Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid notes that narrowing interest rate gaps will drive ringgit appreciation, while economist Dr. Geoffrey Williams states the rate cut's impact is already priced in. A 50 basis point cut could strengthen the ringgit further, while a 25 basis point cut may stabilize it. Bank Negara Malaysia's OPR is expected to remain at 3.0%. Stephen Innes from SPI Asset Management highlights that US political risks, especially if Trump wins, could challenge the ringgit's strength. The ringgit opened at 4.2930 and settled at 4.294, rebounding 12% from its lowest point of RM4.79 this year.

#Ringgit #UsDollar #FederalReserve #Economy #Malaysia #InterestRates #Forex #BankNegara #PoliticalRisk #Currency

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1107031/ringgit-might-hit-425-us-dollar-year-end-more-us-rate-cuts-will 

 Finish Gaza deal now, Israel opposition leader says in US
==========

Yair Lapid, Israeli opposition leader and former prime minister, urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to finalize a Gaza truce deal during his meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on September 16, 2024. Lapid emphasized the importance of bringing back hostages for Israel's existence and stated that political interests should be set aside. He described Hamas as a 'terrible organization' but insisted that more efforts should be made to secure a hostage deal. US President Joe Biden proposed a ceasefire plan on May 31, 2024, which includes a six-month fighting freeze and the release of captives. Netanyahu has rejected US claims that a deal is close, insisting on an Israeli military presence on the Egypt-Gaza border, which has caused tensions with Egypt, a key mediator. The Philadelphi Corridor and hostage release details remain major sticking points, according to State Department spokesman Matthew Miller.

#Israel #Gaza #YairLapid #BenjaminNetanyahu #Hamas #Us #Truce #Hostages #Diplomacy #MiddleEast

https://www.nst.com.my/world/world/2024/09/1106668/finish-gaza-deal-now-israel-opposition-leader-says-us 

 Brazil judge seizes US$3 million from Musk to pay X fines
==========

Brazil's Supreme Court announced on September 14, 2024, that Judge Alexandre de Moraes ordered the transfer of US$3 million from Elon Musk's companies to cover fines for his social network X, which has been suspended in Brazil. The judge had previously ordered X to shut down after Musk failed to remove certain right-wing accounts and did not appoint a new legal representative. Moraes also froze the assets of X and Starlink to ensure payment of fines, which were imposed due to the platform's non-compliance with court orders. The social media platform has over 22 million users in Brazil. Moraes's actions have sparked debates on freedom of expression, with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva supporting the ban, while former President Jair Bolsonaro criticized Moraes as a 'dictator'.

#ElonMusk #Brazil #SocialNetwork #X #Fines #JudgeAlexandreDeMoraes #FreedomOfExpression #LulaDaSilva #JairBolsonaro

https://www.nst.com.my/world/world/2024/09/1105709/brazil-judge-seizes-us3-million-musk-pay-x-fines 

 Australian govt says will fine companies that fail to protect citizens from scams
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The Australian government plans to impose fines up to 50 million Australian dollars (US$33.6 million) on companies that do not protect customers from scams; Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones announced the new laws on September 13, 2024; the laws will apply to banks, telecommunications companies, and technology firms; Australians reported losing 2.74 billion Australian dollars (US$1.84 billion) to scams in 2023; scam victims can seek compensation through the Australian Financial Complaints Authority; banks must report scams immediately and attempt to halt payments.

#Australia #Scams #Government #Fines #ConsumerProtection #StephenJones #FinancialComplaints #Telecommunications #Banks #Technology

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1105295/australian-govt-says-will-fine-companies-fail-protect-citizens 

 Dollar firm after inflation data douse bets for big Fed cut
==========

The dollar traded near a four-week high against the euro on September 12, 2024, following U.S. inflation data that suggested the Federal Reserve would likely avoid a significant interest rate cut next week. The U.S. consumer price index (CPI) rose 0.2% in August, with core CPI increasing by 0.3%. Traders reduced the probability of a 50-basis point rate cut on September 18 to 15%, while a 25-basis point cut remains at 85%. The European Central Bank is expected to announce a quarter-point rate reduction on the same day. The dollar rose 0.13% to 142.55 yen, recovering from a low of 140.71 yen earlier in the week. Bank of Japan board members indicated a tightening bias, contributing to yen volatility. U.S. Treasury yields increased after hitting a 15-month low, impacting currency movements.

#Dollar #Inflation #FederalReserve #InterestRates #Ecb #Cpi #Yen #TreasuryYields #CurrencyMarkets #EconomicData

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1104720/dollar-firm-after-inflation-data-douse-bets-big-fed-cut 

 Bid for 7-Eleven owner shows Japan's governance gains, says Suntory CEO Niinami
==========

A US$39 billion Canadian takeover bid for 7-Eleven's owner indicates a shift in Japan's corporate governance; Suntory CEO Takeshi Niinami, age 65, notes CEOs are 'nervous' about potential foreign bids; Seven & i's rejection of Alimentation Couche-Tard's bid shows companies are focusing on value; Niinami believes Japan's corporate governance is advancing; Governance reforms and emergence from deflation are pressuring companies to create value; Niinami, a Harvard Business School graduate, previously led a US$16 billion takeover of Beam; Outbound deal value in Japan is at a 17-year high; Niinami supports Nippon Steel's bid for U.S. Steel; He anticipates interest rates may rise to 1% in 6-9 months; Emphasizes the need for sustainable wage growth to boost consumption.

#Japan #Suntory #7eleven #CorporateGovernance #M&a #Economy #Niinami #AlimentationCouchetard #NipponSteel #UsSteel

https://www.nst.com.my/business/corporate/2024/09/1104395/bid-7-eleven-owner-shows-japans-governance-gains-says-suntory-ceo 

 Thailand to distribute first US$4.2b of handout scheme starting this month
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Thailand will distribute 145 billion baht (US$4.2 billion) of its 'digital wallet' handout programme earlier than scheduled to support vulnerable groups, as stated by Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat on September 9, 2024. The government has prepared a total of 450 billion baht (US$13.29 billion) for the programme, aiming to transfer 10,000 baht to 50 million Thais. The rollout was initially planned for the last quarter of 2024. The Thai economy grew 2.3% in Q2 2024, but uncertainty arose after the removal of Premier Srettha Thavisin last month. As of now, 32 million people have registered for the programme, which will provide funds via a smartphone application. Critics, including former central bank governors, have labeled the handout scheme as fiscally irresponsible, while the government insists it is necessary for economic stimulation, projecting a growth of 2.6% for the year.

#Thailand #Economy #HandoutScheme #DigitalWallet #Stimulus #Finance #JulapunAmornvivat #SretthaThavisin #PaetongtarnShinawatra #2024

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1103373/thailand-distribute-first-us42b-handout-scheme-starting-month 

 Bracing for heavy selloff in Asian stocks after Wall Street's slump
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Asian stocks expected to open sharply lower on September 9, 2024; Wall Street's slump on September 6, 2024, influenced by U.S. jobs data and Fed comments; Japanese futures indicate a more than 3% drop for Nikkei 225; S&P 500 and Dow saw biggest weekly drop since March 2023; Nasdaq's 2.6% fall marks its largest weekly loss since January 2022; overseas investors cautious, net sellers in August; Chinese stocks closed at a seven-month low; U.S. unemployment rate decreased, wage growth accelerated; Fed officials did not signal a 50 basis point rate cut; China to release CPI and PPI data; Japan to revise Q2 GDP growth; Taiwan's export growth forecasted at 7.35%; Yi Gang calls for more fiscal stimulus to combat deflation.

#AsianStocks #WallStreet #Fed #EconomicData #China #Japan #Taiwan #RecessionFears #Inflation #MarketAnalysis

https://www.nst.com.my/business/corporate/2024/09/1103136/bracing-heavy-selloff-asian-stocks-after-wall-streets-slump 

 Oil holds at 14-month low on demand worries
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Oil prices remain at a 14-month low due to concerns about demand in the US and China, alongside anticipated increases in Libyan supplies; Brent futures settled at US$72.69 and WTI at US$69.15, marking the lowest closes since June 2023 and December 2023 respectively; US Energy Information Administration reported a withdrawal of 6.9 million barrels from US inventories for the week ending August 30, exceeding the 1 million barrels forecast; Opec+ decided to delay planned output increases for October and November, potentially tightening fourth-quarter balances by 100,000-200,000 barrels per day; Analysts express skepticism about Opec+'s impact on prices, citing a surplus in gasoline stockpiles; US economic indicators show mixed signals with private job growth at a 3.5-year low and steady services sector activity; Federal Reserve expected to cut interest rates at the upcoming September 17-18 meeting.

#Oil #Opec+ #UsEconomy #China #Brent #Wti #Energy #MarketAnalysis #FederalReserve #Libya

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1102048/oil-holds-14-month-low-demand-worries 

 Ringgit opens firmer versus greenback as US labour demand declines
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On September 5, 2024, the ringgit opened at 4.3380/3545 against the US dollar, improving from the previous day's close of 4.3505/3560; US job openings fell to 7.673 million in July, below the expected 8.09 million; Bank Muamalat's chief economist, Dr. Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid, noted guarded demand for the ringgit amid global economic uncertainty; the US Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates during the FOMC meeting on September 17-18; the ringgit also strengthened against the euro and British pound but weakened against the Japanese yen; it traded higher against several ASEAN currencies, including the Singapore dollar and Indonesian rupiah.

#Ringgit #UsDollar #Economy #InterestRates #JobOpenings #Malaysia #BankMuamalat #GlobalEconomy #Asean #CurrencyExchange

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1101443/ringgit-opens-firmer-versus-greenback-us-labour-demand-declines 

 Ringgit opens marginally higher against greenback
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The ringgit opened at 4.3485/3595 against the US dollar on September 3, 2024, slightly up from 4.3550/3600 the previous day; Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid noted potential profit-taking due to recent ringgit appreciation; US rate cut expectations for September remain high, indicating a possible monetary easing cycle; US ISM manufacturing data to be released tonight, with expectations of improvement from July's 46.8 to August's 47.5; The ringgit also strengthened against major currencies including the Japanese yen, euro, and British pound.

#Ringgit #UsDollar #Economy #Malaysia #CurrencyExchange #Banking #Finance #MarketAnalysis #EconomicData #MonetaryPolicy

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1100440/ringgit-opens-marginally-higher-against-greenback 

 Ringgit seen to trade higher next week
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The ringgit is expected to trade higher against the US dollar next week due to sustained demand; Bank Muamalat's chief economist Dr. Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid predicts it may breach RM4.3030; US non-farm payrolls and Bank Negara Malaysia's Monetary Policy Committee Meeting are key economic data to watch; since the currency peg removal on July 21, 2005, the average level was RM3.7875, indicating potential appreciation; AmBank Group forecasts further strengthening of the ringgit due to healthy fundamentals and US Federal Reserve's interest rate cuts; ringgit strengthened to 4.3185/3225 against the US dollar from 4.3720/3775; it also gained against the euro, British pound, Japanese yen, and ASEAN currencies; net foreign buying in Malaysian equities reached RM2.53 billion year-to-date as of August 29, 2024.

#Ringgit #UsDollar #BankNegaraMalaysia #Economy #InterestRates #ForeignInvestment #CurrencyExchange #Malaysia #FinancialMarkets #EconomicData

https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2024/09/1099966/ringgit-seen-trade-higher-next-week