The Bank of Russia unexpectedly maintained its key interest rate at a record-high 21% , defying analysts’ expectations of another significant hike as inflation remains stubbornly elevated. The decision marks a shift toward a more measured approach in balancing economic growth and price stability. Key Details Inflation Concerns: Annual inflation climbed to 8.9% in November, well above the central bank’s 4% target , with inflation expectations reaching 13.9% in December. Policy Rationale: The central bank cited the significant tightening of monetary conditions after October’s 200-basis point hike as sufficient to resume disinflationary processes. Governor Elvira Nabiullina emphasized avoiding both economic overheating and severe slowdowns. Economic Overheating: Elevated government spending on the war in Ukraine and social programs, coupled with labor shortages and rising wages, have fueled strong domestic demand, exacerbating price pressures...
KUALA LUMPUR (Dec 13): Malaysian stocks ended the week on a positive note today in line with regional markets as the US delayed a planned increase in its tariff on billions worth of Chinese-made goods.
The FBM KLCI closed up for the third consecutive day, gaining 3.82 points or 0.24% to settle at its intraday low of 1,571.16. The market was trading between 1,571.16 and 1,579.23 points throughout the day.
The top gainers on Bursa Malaysia were lead by Petronas Gas Bhd (+54 sen to RM16.94), Batu Kawan Bhd (+40 sen to RM17) and United Plantations Bhd (+38 sen to RM26.18). The top three laggards were Nestle Malaysia Bhd (-80 sen to RM144.60), Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (-34 sen to RM7.55) and QL Resources Bhd (-33 sen to RM7.55).
Trading volume increased to 2.94 billion shares worth RM2.51 billion compared with yesterday's 2.49 billion shares worth RM2.12 billion. Market breadth was positive with 425 gainers versus 368 losers, while 454 counters were unchanged.
According to Reuters, Southeast Asian shares were lifted today in response to the US agreeing to reduce existing tariffs on Chinese goods and delaying Sunday’s scheduled tariffs. Quoting sources, Reuters reported that China agreed to buy US$50 billion in US agricultural goods in 2020.
The Shanghai Composite Index posted a gain of 1.78% at 2,967.68 points. Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index ended the day 2.57% higher at 27,687.76 points.
South Korea’s Kospi closed 1.54% higher at 2,170.25 points, while Japan's Nikkei 225 saw a 2.55% gain to 24,023.10 points.
Source: The Edge
Comments
Post a Comment