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Global investors are increasingly focusing on Indonesia and Malaysia, betting that these markets will benefit more than other developing nations as the Federal Reserve looks set to ease monetary policy. These two Southeast Asian markets are becoming attractive due to sound fiscal policies and a focus on new technology sectors, such as electric vehicles and data centers, which are drawing in more funds. Key Highlights: Increased Inflows to Indonesia and Malaysia : Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines were the only countries in Asia to see net overseas inflows into stocks in August. Foreign investors bought $1.8 billion of Indonesian shares, the highest since April 2022, helping the Jakarta Stock Exchange Composite Index reach record highs. Foreign buying of Malaysian stocks reached $491 million by August 29, the highest since March 2022. Attractive Factors : Indonesia : The potential easing of monetary policy, fiscal discipline, and its role in the global electric vehicle and batter

Four of China's five largest banks reported lower second-quarter profits, as they responded to government pressure to reduce lending rates to stimulate weak loan demand in a slowing economy and struggling property sector. Despite this, all five lenders announced interim dividends for the first time in over a decade. Key Highlights: Decline in Profits : Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Ltd (ICBC), the world's largest lender by assets, posted a 0.8% drop in Q2 net profit, while China Construction Bank Corp (CCB) reported a 1.4% decline. Bank of China (BoC) and Bank of Communications (BoCom) also saw lower Q2 profits, although Agricultural Bank of China (AgBank) reported a 14.2% increase. Pressure on Net Interest Margins (NIM) : ICBC and CCB experienced a narrowing of their net interest margins, a key measure of profitability, with ICBC’s NIM falling to 1.43% from 1.48% at the end of June. This trend is expected to continue in the second half of 2024 due to mortgage reprici

Consumer spending in the United States saw a solid increase in July, indicating a stable economic outlook for the third quarter and challenging the likelihood of a significant interest rate cut from the Federal Reserve next month. Key Highlights: Rise in Consumer Spending : The Commerce Department reported that consumer spending, which represents over two-thirds of US economic activity, rose by 0.5% in July, following a 0.3% increase in June. This suggests that consumer spending maintained its momentum from the second quarter, contributing to a 3.0% annualized growth rate in gross domestic product (GDP) during that period. Moderate Inflation Growth : The personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price index, the Federal Reserve's preferred measure of inflation, rose by 0.2% in July, matching expectations and following a 0.1% increase in June. Year-over-year, the PCE price index rose by 2.5%, while core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy components, also increased by 2

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 30 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia staged a sharp rebound at the close on Friday from yesterday’s loss, with the benchmark index bouncing 1.53 per cent amid a strong performance in regional markets. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) jumped 25.25 points to 1,678.80 from Thursday's close of 1,653.55. The index opened 4.93 points higher at 1,658.48 and fluctuated between 1,651.10 and 1,679.85 throughout the session. The broader market was firm, with gainers outnumbering decliners 771 to 421, with 437 counters unchanged, 861 untraded and 80 others suspended. Turnover increased to 3.95 billion units valued at RM6.22 billion from 3.67 billion units valued at RM3.96 billion on Thursday. Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd equity research vice-president Thong Pak Leng said key indices across the region gained ahead of the release of the US personal consumption expenditures data later tonight, which will indicate if the US Federal R

Meta's Llama artificial intelligence (AI) models are being utilized by major companies, including Goldman Sachs and AT&T, for various business functions such as customer service, document review, and computer code generation. The Llama models, which are mostly available free of charge, have seen substantial uptake since their release. Key Highlights: Widespread Adoption : Meta's Llama models have been downloaded almost 350 million times since their public release last year, reflecting a significant increase from the 300 million downloads reported in late July when Meta launched the largest version of its Llama 3 model. Usage through cloud providers like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure has more than doubled from May to July this year. Strategic Positioning in AI : Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has emphasized that providing state-of-the-art AI models for free is a strategy to avoid reliance on competitors' closed technologies. He believes that keeping the Llama models

AirAsia, a low-cost airline under Capital A Bhd, has commenced 14 weekly flights from Subang Airport in Selangor to Sabah and Sarawak using Airbus A320 narrow-body aircraft, starting from August 30. This marks a return to Subang Airport for AirAsia, which initially launched its operations there 24 years ago. Key Highlights: Return to Subang Airport : Reintroducing narrow-body aircraft at Subang Airport is part of a broader initiative to modernize the airport into a vibrant city terminal catering to business travelers, as explained by Capital A CEO Tan Sri Tony Fernandes. The move is expected to enhance connectivity within Malaysia and the region. Expansion Plans : Fernandes expressed optimism about the growth potential of Subang Airport, anticipating it will become a popular hub for travelers. AirAsia plans to rapidly expand its operations from Subang, leveraging its status as Malaysia's largest airline by capacity, with 40 domestic routes and 1,860 return weekly flights by the end

Zhuhai CosMX Battery Co Ltd, a Chinese manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries, is set to invest RM1 billion to establish a manufacturing plant in Kedah, Malaysia. The new facility will be built in phases at the Kulim East Industrial Park, with construction expected to start in the fourth quarter of 2024. This investment is projected to create over 1,000 jobs. Key Details: Investment and Job Creation : The plant represents a significant RM1 billion investment in Kedah, with the potential to create over 1,000 jobs, according to the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida). This development is expected to enhance Malaysia's local ecosystem by introducing cutting-edge battery technology. Expansion of CosMX's Global Presence : CosMX manufactures lithium-ion batteries for a range of devices, including laptops, drones, and electric vehicles, and provides industrial energy storage systems. The Kedah plant will be a strategic addition to the company's global production bases

  Four stocks were highlighted for their momentum at Bursa Malaysia’s noon market break. Two of these stocks exhibited positive momentum, while the other two showed negative momentum, according to a proprietary algorithm from theedgemalaysia.com. Stocks with Positive Momentum: Barakah Offshore Petroleum Bhd (KL ) : Shares rose by one sen or 14.29%, trading at eight sen. This suggests a rising price trend backed by higher trading volume. Bertam Alliance Bhd (KL ) : Despite being down by half a sen or 4.17%, trading at 11.50 sen, it still showed positive momentum, indicating potential short-term buying interest. Stocks with Negative Momentum: Hong Leong Financial Group Bhd (KL ) : Shares increased by 14 sen or 0.76% to RM18.60. Despite the price increase, the stock is categorized under negative momentum, suggesting a potential decline following the price rise. Innoprise Plantations Bhd (KL ) : Shares rose by one sen or 0.68% to RM1.49, yet displayed negative momentum, possibly hinting at

Macquarie Equity Research has identified Malaysia as a leading market for data centre growth in Asean, emphasizing the country’s strong potential due to an upcoming, improved renewable energy scheme. The new Corporate Renewable Energy Supply Scheme (CRESS), expected in September, aims to resolve bottlenecks in solar power supply, enhancing Malaysia's attractiveness for data centre investments. Key Takeaways: Malaysia's Position in Asean Data Centre Market : Malaysia is poised for significant growth in data centre demand, with a forecast of 5.6 Gigawatts (GW) over the next 10 years, placing it just behind India. This growth is driven by expanding digital infrastructure needs and renewable energy initiatives, despite alternative forecasts by DC Bytes placing Malaysia third behind India and Japan. Top Picks for Data Centre Investments : Macquarie has named Tenaga Nasional Bhd and YTL Power International Bhd as top picks to benefit from the data centre boom. Tenaga is set to capita

Mah Sing Group Bhd, a prominent property developer, reported a 19.3% year-on-year (y-o-y) increase in its net profit for the second quarter of 2024 (2QFY2024), reaching RM60.2 million compared to RM50.5 million a year earlier. This growth was attributed to higher margins and lower net finance costs, despite a decline in revenue. Key Takeaways: Sales and Earnings Performance : Mah Sing achieved RM1.66 billion in sales in the first eight months of 2024, putting it on track to meet its full-year sales target of at least RM2.5 billion. Earnings per share for 2QFY2024 rose to 2.37 sen from 2.08 sen in 2QFY2023. However, quarterly revenue fell by 10.2% y-o-y to RM578.4 million due to new sales from projects that are expected to generate significant revenue once construction progresses beyond the initial stages. Strong First-Half Results and Positive Outlook : For the first half of FY2024 (1HFY2024), net profit rose 19.6% to RM120.3 million, while revenue decreased by 11.7% to RM1.14 billion.

Visits to Genting Bhd's Resorts World Genting (RWG) have not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels, despite a stronger second-quarter performance, according to Phillip Capital. Revenue for the second quarter of FY2024 (2QFY2024) grew by 3%, and core net profit rose 15% year-on-year (y-o-y), supported by an increase in tourist visitations due to visa-free travel. Key Takeaways: Growth in Revenue and Profit : RWG saw hilltop visitations reach 5.9 million in 2QFY2024, an 11% y-o-y increase, with a significant number of tourists from Singapore. In the US, Resorts World Las Vegas recorded revenue of $218 million and EBITDA of $50 million. Overall, Genting’s EBITDA for 2QFY2024 rose 10% y-o-y, with an improved EBITDA margin due to reduced losses in investments. Improved Financial Performance : For the first half of FY2024, Genting's core net profit, excluding impairment and fair value losses, increased by 145% y-o-y to RM884 million, reaching 52% of Phillip Capital's full-year fore

Spritzer Bhd's shares rose to their highest level in more than two months on Friday after the mineral water company reported better-than-expected results for the second quarter of 2024 (2QFY2024). The stock climbed as much as 6.2% to RM2.75, the highest since June 26, with a market capitalization of RM862 million. Key Takeaways: Upgraded Forecasts and Recommendations : BIMB Securities upgraded its recommendation on Spritzer to 'buy,' setting a target price of RM2.90. The firm raised its earnings forecasts for FY2024 to FY2026 by 6%-9%, based on expectations of lower input costs and higher margins. Strong Financial Performance in 2QFY2024 : For the second quarter ended June 30, 2024, Spritzer's revenue rose by 18% year-on-year, while net profit jumped by 63%, driven by higher bottled water sales volume and reduced raw material costs. The net profit for the first half of FY2024 reached RM35.3 million, exceeding BIMB Securities' expectations at 65% and the consensus fo

In the second quarter of 2024 (2Q2024), the technology sector underperformed investor expectations, with most companies delivering lackluster results, according to CIMB Securities. Conversely, the banking sector emerged as a bright spot, with most banks reporting earnings that exceeded forecasts. Key Takeaways: Underperformance in the Technology Sector : All technology companies under CIMB Securities’ coverage — including Inari Amertron Bhd, Malaysian Pacific Industries Bhd, Unisem (M) Bhd, and ViTrox Corporation Bhd — reported results below expectations for 2Q2024. The sector struggled due to lower utilization rates, declining profit margins, and a stronger ringgit. The technology index, which tracks 48 stocks, fell by 10.4% since August 22, closing at 62.11 points on Thursday, though it showed a slight rebound to 62.6 points on Friday. Mixed Results in Telecommunications and Automotive Sectors : The telecommunications sector saw 40% of its companies, including CelcomDigi Bhd and Tele

Alliance Bank Malaysia Bhd is poised to achieve record profit for the financial year ending March 31, 2025 (FY2025), driven by steady growth in loans and non-interest income. The bank's performance in the first quarter ended June 30, 2024 (1QFY2025), accounted for about 24% of the consensus full-year forecast of over RM730 million. Key Takeaways: Strong Growth Across Business Segments : Alliance Bank has demonstrated robust growth across its various business segments. Analysts, including TA Securities, have upgraded their outlook for the bank, citing positive indicators such as lower market risk premiums, a healthier economic environment in Malaysia, stable interest rates, and improved investor sentiment. TA Securities raised its target price (TP) for Alliance Bank to RM5, upgrading its recommendation to 'buy.' Positive Market Sentiment and Share Performance : Alliance Bank's shares have risen 28% year-to-date, reflecting a broader rally among banking stocks in Malaysia

Shares of Sarawak Oil Palms Bhd (SOP) rose to their highest level in a month on Friday following a strong second-quarter performance that exceeded market expectations. The stock climbed as much as 3.5%, reaching RM2.92, its highest since July 30, before trading at RM2.89 at 10 a.m., with a market capitalization of RM2.57 billion. Key Takeaways: Strong 2Q Results Boost Investor Confidence : SOP's net profit for the second quarter of FY2024 more than doubled year-on-year to RM105.68 million, bringing the total net profit for the first half of the fiscal year to RM185.14 million. This performance was well above both RHB Investment Bank’s forecast and the consensus estimate, prompting RHB to maintain its 'buy' call and raise its earnings forecasts for SOP. Positive Outlook for the Second Half of 2024 : With production ramping up and unit costs moderating, RHB Investment Bank expects stronger financial results for SOP in the second half of FY2024. Seasonal factors are also expec

Contracts to purchase previously owned homes in the US fell sharply in July, reaching their lowest level since the National Association of Realtors (NAR) began tracking the data in 2001. The Pending Home Sales Index, which is based on signed contracts, dropped 5.5% to 70.2 in July, far below economists' expectations of a 0.4% increase. On a year-on-year basis, pending home sales plummeted by 8.5%. Key Factors: Impact of High Prices and Borrowing Costs : The significant decline in pending home sales reflects the challenges of affordability, with higher home prices and increased borrowing costs deterring potential buyers from the market. Broad Regional Decline : The drop in pending home sales occurred across all four major US regions, indicating a nationwide trend of reduced buying activity. Subdued Sales Outlook : With elevated house prices and economic uncertainty, particularly ahead of the US presidential election, the sales activity is expected to remain low. The share of consume

Inflation in Tokyo accelerated in August, strengthening the argument for the Bank of Japan (BOJ) to continue its gradual interest rate hikes while balancing support for the economy. Consumer prices, excluding fresh food, rose by 2.4% compared to 2.2% in July, exceeding the consensus estimate of 2.2%, according to the Ministry of Internal Affairs. These Tokyo figures are considered leading indicators for national inflation data expected in September. Key Takeaways: Potential for Further Rate Hikes : Following the BOJ’s rate hike on July 31, Governor Kazuo Ueda signaled openness to additional hikes if inflation trends align with the bank's projections. However, Ueda has also expressed caution, indicating that the BOJ will carefully assess the impact of financial market instability before making further policy moves. Mixed Economic Indicators : Additional data showed a mixed economic picture, with Japan's jobless rate increasing to 2.7% and factory output rising by 2.8% in July, t

Fitch Ratings has affirmed the United States' credit rating at "AA+" and stated that the country's fiscal profile is likely to remain largely unchanged regardless of the outcome of the upcoming presidential election. The agency cited structural strengths such as high per capita income and financial flexibility. Key Takeaways: Limited Impact from Election Results : Fitch believes that the underlying US fiscal position will remain stable despite different economic objectives, tax policies, and spending priorities of Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican candidate Donald Trump. It expects most of the tax cuts from 2017 to be extended under either administration, which would affect revenues and contribute to wider budget deficits. High Deficits and Debt Burden : The US government has not taken significant steps to address large fiscal deficits, a growing debt burden, and increasing expenditures linked to an aging population. These factors place the US bel

India's economic growth, which has been robust in recent years, is set to slow down in the coming months as several risks emerge. Economists are downgrading their forecasts and suggesting potential interest rate cuts, given the challenges posed by subdued consumer sentiment, slow rural recovery, and a weakening global economy. Key Takeaways: Growth Forecasts Lowered : Goldman Sachs has trimmed India's growth forecast for the current calendar year by 20 basis points to 6.7%, while Bloomberg Economics has reduced its projection for the fiscal year ending March 2025 to 6.8%, down from 7.2%. The slowdown is attributed to decreased government spending before elections, weaker consumer sentiment, and a global economic downturn. Subdued Consumer Spending and Investment : Consumer sentiment declined for the second consecutive month in July, impacting private consumption, which constitutes nearly 60% of India’s GDP. Rural spending has yet to recover to pre-COVID levels, and business inv

China is considering a major move to allow refinancing of up to $5.4 trillion in mortgages, aiming to lower borrowing costs for millions of families and stimulate consumption. The plan would permit homeowners to renegotiate mortgage terms with their current lenders before January or switch lenders for the first time since the global financial crisis. Key Takeaways: Refinancing Initiative to Support Economic Growth : The proposed refinancing plan aims to lower mortgage costs, which could ease financial burdens for homeowners and boost consumption. This measure comes amid mounting pressure on Chinese authorities to counter a housing-led economic slowdown, following a series of disappointing earnings from consumer companies and reduced growth forecasts from major financial institutions like UBS Group AG. Impact on Chinese Banks : Lower mortgage rates could significantly affect the profitability of Chinese banks, particularly state-run institutions. The sector is already grappling with rec

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) makers suffered a setback in Europe in July 2024, as new tariffs and a general slowdown in EV demand hit their sales. The introduction of tariffs on Chinese-made EVs, which took effect on July 5, has added pressure on automakers already grappling with reduced incentives in key markets like Germany. Key Takeaways: Impact of New Tariffs : Chinese automakers, including SAIC Motor Corp’s MG and BYD Co, saw their share of EV registrations in Europe drop to 9.9% in July 2024, down from 10.2% a year earlier. New tariffs have increased duties on Chinese-made EVs to as high as 48%, significantly impacting their competitiveness in the European market. SAIC’s MG brand experienced a 38% decrease in registrations compared to July 2023 and a 60% decline from June 2024 as it pushed more than 13,000 vehicles into dealerships ahead of the tariff deadline. Decline in EV Demand and Trade Tensions : The overall demand for EVs in Europe weakened following the removal of incent

  Asian stocks rose on Friday, poised for a strong end to August, while the US dollar faced its worst monthly performance in nine months amid expectations that the Federal Reserve (Fed) will cut interest rates next month. The upcoming release of the US core personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price index and eurozone inflation data are likely to provide further insights into the global rate outlook. Key Takeaways: Strong Performance of Asian Stocks : The MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan rose 0.77%, aiming for a 2.3% gain for the month. Key markets like Taiwan's benchmark index and South Korea's Kospi also saw recoveries, up 0.44% and 0.7%, respectively, driven by stronger-than-expected US economic data that eased recession fears. Chinese stocks rallied, particularly property stocks, with the CSI 300 Real Estate Index surging over 8% on news that China may allow homeowners to refinance up to $5.4 trillion in mortgages to boost consumption. Dolla

Thailand's manufacturing production index (MPI) rose by 1.79% in July from a year earlier, marking its first increase in three months, according to the country's industry ministry. This growth surpassed a forecasted 0.7% decline predicted by a Reuters poll, signaling a potential recovery for the sector. The rise was attributed to stronger exports, increased tourism, and higher public spending. Key Takeaways: Positive Turn in Factory Output : The July MPI showed a 1.79% increase, a reversal from a 1.63% decline in June, indicating a recovery in Thailand's manufacturing sector. The deputy director general of the Office of Industrial Economics, Krit Chansuwan, expressed optimism, expecting further growth in August based on higher import levels, which is a positive sign for future manufacturing and exports. Boost from Exports and Tourism : Thailand's export sector saw a notable improvement, with a 15.2% rise in July compared to the previous year, marking the biggest increas

  Intel Corp is exploring a range of strategic options to counter its financial decline, including a potential split of its product design and manufacturing divisions. The move comes as the company grapples with severe financial losses and a declining market position, with shares hitting their lowest level since 2013. Key Takeaways: Potential Foundry Business Split : Intel is considering separating its foundry business, which produces chips for external customers, from its core product design operations. This would mark a significant shift in strategy for CEO Pat Gelsinger, who has previously emphasized the foundry business as key to Intel's recovery and competition with industry leaders like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC). However, a less drastic approach, such as halting expansion plans, might be more likely in the short term. Financial Challenges and Strategic Decisions : Intel's financial woes have intensified, with the company reporting a $1.61 billion net l

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 29 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia snapped a three-day winning streak to end in the red on Thursday, as investors took profit amid the negative performance of most regional peers. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) fell 21.69 points or 1.29 per cent to 1,653.55 from Wednesday's close of 1,675.24. The index opened 2.29 points lower at 1,672.95 and fluctuated between 1,651.73 and 1,684.68 throughout the session. The broader market was weaker, with decliners outnumbering gainers 851 to 316, with 457 counters unchanged, 894 untraded and 108 others suspended. Turnover decreased to 3.67 billion units valued at RM3.96 billion from 3.96 billion units valued at RM4.65 billion on Wednesday. Analysts believe that the pullback in the FBM KLCI today after the recent rally was a healthy development, given the index's position above the 1,636 support level.  UOB Kay Hian Wealth Advisors head of i

  Here’s a brief overview of notable corporate developments: Malayan Banking Bhd (Maybank) : Maybank reported an 8.2% increase in net profit for 2QFY2024, reaching RM2.53 billion, driven by lower provisions and tax expenses. The bank declared an interim dividend of 29 sen per share, totaling RM3.5 billion. KLCCP Stapled Group Bhd : The group saw its 2QFY2024 net profit rise by 5.67% to RM191.06 million, supported by strong performances across its retail and hotel segments. A dividend of 9.2 sen per stapled security was declared. Sunway Bhd : Sunway posted a significant 80.4% increase in net profit for 2QFY2024, totaling RM270.47 million. This growth was bolstered by gains from investment redemptions and better performance across most business segments. A first interim dividend of two sen per share was announced. Axiata Group Bhd : Axiata returned to profitability in 2QFY2024, reporting a net profit of RM134.9 million, reversing from a loss of RM576.22 million a year earlier. The compan

Axiata Group Bhd has announced a buyback offer of up to US$200 million for its outstanding medium-term notes (MTNs) due in 2050, issued by its subsidiary Axiata SPV5 (Labuan) Ltd. The MTNs, originally valued at US$1 billion, are listed on the Singapore Exchange. This buyback initiative is part of Axiata’s strategy to reduce gross debt, lower interest costs, and optimize its capital structure by using surplus cash to retire and cancel the purchased notes. Key Details: Buyback Offer: Axiata is offering eligible holders the opportunity to sell back their MTNs, with the offer set to expire on September 27, 2024. The terms of the offer are detailed in the tender offer memorandum. Strategic Financial Management: The buyback is aimed at reducing Axiata’s debt burden and improving its financial health, reflecting the company’s focus on managing interest costs and enhancing its overall capital structure. Market Reaction: Following the announcement, Axiata's share price increased by 3.66%

Shares of Supermax Corp Bhd, a major glove manufacturer, dropped nearly 5% to their lowest level in over nine months following the announcement of its largest quarterly loss. The stock fell to 78 sen, with a market capitalization of RM2.15 billion, reflecting investor concerns over the company's financial performance. Key Points: Significant Quarterly Loss: Supermax reported its largest quarterly loss, leading to a sharp decline in its share price. The company's revenue for FY2024 decreased by 21.4% due to lower sales volume and declining average selling prices (ASPs). Future Outlook: CIMB Securities expects Supermax to return to profitability by FY2025, driven by improved ASPs and sales volume as supply-demand dynamics in the global glove sector become more favorable. However, margins are anticipated to remain constrained due to the strengthening of the ringgit. Analyst Recommendations: Despite the expected recovery, CIMB maintains a 'hold' rating on Supermax, lower

  California's state Assembly has passed the AI safety bill SB 1047, which mandates companies to ensure their AI technologies do not cause significant harm. The bill, which received 41 votes in favor and nine against, now heads back to the state Senate for confirmation before reaching Governor Gavin Newsom's desk. Key Provisions and Controversies: AI Safety Requirements: The bill requires companies developing powerful AI models to take "reasonable care" to prevent "severe harm," such as mass casualties or property damage over US$500 million. It mandates measures like implementing a kill switch and submitting models to third-party testing. Mixed Reactions: The bill has sparked debate, with some tech leaders and companies like OpenAI opposing it, arguing it represents government overreach and could stifle innovation. However, others, including Elon Musk and AI firm Anthropic, have shown cautious support, acknowledging the need for safety measures. State vs.

  Hong Leong Bank Bhd, Malaysia’s fifth-largest bank by assets, reported a strong financial performance for the fourth quarter of FY2024, with net profit rising nearly 20% year-on-year (y-o-y) to RM1.03 billion. This growth was driven by higher operating income and a writeback of provisions. The bank also declared a final dividend of 43 sen per share. Key Highlights: Strong Financial Performance: For the quarter ended June 30, 2024, Hong Leong Bank’s net profit increased by 19.2% y-o-y to RM1.03 billion, supported by a 10.7% growth in net interest income and a 26.5% increase in non-interest income. The bank also benefited from a RM31.15 million writeback of impairment on loans. Dividend Announcement: The bank declared a final dividend of 43 sen per share for the current quarter, up from 38 sen in the same period last year, reflecting its strong financial position. Growth in Loans and Asset Quality: As of June 30, Hong Leong Bank’s gross loans and financing grew 7.3% y-o-y to RM194.9

Chinese ride-hailing giant DiDi Global is set to become the second-largest shareholder of AutoAi, a subsidiary of state-backed mapping firm NavInfo. DiDi will exchange cash and its smart driving and cockpit unit for a 16.5% stake in AutoAi, while NavInfo will remain the largest shareholder with 27%. The deal, valued at 450 million yuan (approximately US$62 million), allows DiDi to significantly reduce its involvement in the highly competitive electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing sector. Key Takeaways: Strategic Stake in AutoAi: DiDi Global will acquire a 16.5% stake in AutoAi, a subsidiary of NavInfo focused on intelligent cockpit technology, by contributing its smart driving unit and additional cash. Shift Away from EV Manufacturing: The move aligns with DiDi's strategy to pull back from the fiercely competitive EV market, following the sale of its EV development business to Xpeng in 2023. Valuation and Shareholding Structure: The deal values DiDi's subsidiary at 450 million

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol emphasized the need for urgent reform of the national pension fund, one of the world’s largest with assets totaling US$830 billion. Yoon stressed that the current system lacks trust across generations and requires fundamental changes to ensure income security for the country's aging population. The reform aims to make the pension system more equitable by adjusting contribution rates based on age groups, with a focus on sustainability. Key Takeaways: Urgent Pension Reform Needed: President Yoon highlighted the need for immediate and fundamental reforms to South Korea’s national pension fund, which is expected to be depleted by 2055 if left unchanged. Focus on Equity and Sustainability: The proposed reforms include increasing contribution rates and differentiating them by age group to make the system more equitable and restore public trust. Healthcare Reforms and Controversy: In addition to pension reform, Yoon is pushing for healthcare reforms

Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. is capitalizing on China’s real estate crisis by converting vacant office buildings into hotels, a strategy fueled by the domestic travel boom. Despite the downturn in China’s housing market, Hilton plans to add about 100 hotels in the coming years, with nearly 25% of these new locations being developed using existing office spaces rather than new constructions. This "adaptive reuse" approach has gained traction as China's commercial real estate faces oversupply issues, with vacancies near a two-decade high in some cities. Key Takeaways: Adaptive Reuse Strategy: Hilton is converting empty office buildings into hotels to quickly expand its presence in China, with this model now accounting for 25% of its upcoming properties, up from 5-8% before the pandemic. Real Estate Challenges: China's commercial real estate market is struggling with high vacancy rates and falling rents, making it attractive for hotel operators like Hilton to secure