KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 20 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia ended higher on Friday in line with most Asian markets, mirroring gains from Wall Street, where investors welcomed the US Federal Reserve's substantial interest rate cut. The FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) rose by 3.17 points, or 0.19 per cent, to 1,668.82 at the close from Thursday's close of 1,665.65. It opened 5.03 points higher at 1,670.68, trading between 1,668.48 and 1,674.04 throughout the session. In the broader market, gainers outpaced decliners 732 to 468, while 465 counters were unchanged, 850 untraded and 32 suspended. Turnover swelled to 4.19 billion units worth RM5.97 billion, from Thursday's 3.99 billion units worth RM4.08 billion. UOB Kay Hian Wealth Advisors head of investment research, Mohd Sedek Jantan, noted the FBM KLCI's gains were led by utilities, logistics, and banking stocks, reflecting improved market sentiment. Additiona
Key Developments in Japan's Economy
Inflation Trends: Japan's inflation rate accelerated in May, largely driven by a significant 14.7% increase in electricity prices. Consumer prices excluding fresh food rose to 2.5% year-on-year, marking a steady exceedance of the Bank of Japan's (BOJ) 2% target for the 26th consecutive month.
BOJ's Monetary Policy Stance: The recent inflation figures reinforce the rationale for the BOJ to consider a rate hike. Although the Consumer Price Index (CPI) growth is within expected ranges, the consistent above-target inflation readings suggest a potential tightening of monetary policy. The central bank has indicated it will detail plans to reduce bond buying next month, which could precede an interest rate adjustment.
Economic Indicators and Forecasts: Analysts are cautious, suggesting that the BOJ may wait for Q2 economic growth data, due in August, before making a final decision on rate hikes. The central bank remains responsive to ongoing economic conditions, with Governor Kazuo Ueda affirming the possibility of a rate adjustment if justified by economic and financial data.
Underlying Economic Challenges: A deeper analysis shows a cooling trend in core inflation metrics, which exclude volatile food and energy prices. This slowdown indicates potential hesitancy among businesses to raise prices further amidst dampened consumer demand.
Currency and Trade Implications: The weak yen continues to exert upward pressure on prices, especially for imports. Japan's trade deficit widened significantly in May, exacerbated by the depreciated currency. The government and BOJ are closely monitoring the impact of the yen's weakness on the overall economy.
Energy Policies and Consumer Impact: The phase-out of utility subsidies, which began in May, is expected to push inflation rates toward 3% over the summer. This policy change, combined with an increase in renewable energy levies, is likely to further strain household budgets.
Public Sentiment and Economic Outlook: Consumer sentiment in Japan has deteriorated sharply, with increasing concerns over sustained inflation affecting spending behaviors. The government is hopeful that recent wage increases and tax rebates will stimulate consumption and support a shift towards a demand-driven economic cycle.
Conclusion
As Japan navigates through these economic challenges, the balance between controlling inflation and fostering economic growth remains delicate. The BOJ's upcoming decisions will be crucial in shaping the country's monetary policy landscape in response to both domestic and global economic pressures.
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