MONEY MASTER

Key Takeaways Renewed US-Iran tensions pushed Brent crude briefly above US$80 , reigniting concerns over global energy supplies. Despite geopolitical uncertainty, Wall Street avoided a sharp sell-off , suggesting investors believe the conflict remains manageable for now. Higher oil prices have revived expectations of a Federal Reserve rate hike , as markets worry about renewed inflation. Technology stocks remained relatively resilient , showing that AI continues to provide underlying support for equities. The next move in oil prices could determine whether market volatility returns. Market Insight When news broke that the  US had launched fresh strikes on Iran , investors immediately rushed into the oil market. Brent crude briefly climbed above US$80 a barrel , as fears grew that escalating tensions could disrupt supplies through the  Strait of Hormuz , one of the world's busiest energy shipping routes. Yet the reaction in equities was far more measured. Although the  S...

Key Takeaways Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) is widely expected to keep the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) at 2.75%,  but markets are increasingly looking for signals of a rate hike later this year. Malaysia's stronger-than-expected economic growth, driven partly by the AI boom, is reducing the need for accommodative monetary policy. Stable inflation and fuel subsidies have given BNM room to remain patient , unlike several regional central banks that have already tightened policy. The tone of BNM's policy statement may matter more than the rate decision itself. A stronger economy could eventually outweigh concerns over supporting growth, paving the way for policy normalization. Market Insight When  Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM)  announces its interest rate decision, most investors expect  no change . The bigger question isn't  whether rates stay at 2.75% —it's  what BNM says next. After holding rates steady for a year, the central bank could begin preparing markets f...