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Lotte Chemical Shares Hit Four-Year Low as Losses Mount Amid Bleak Outlook

Lotte Chemical Titan Holding Bhd shares fell to their lowest level since April 2020 on Thursday, with investors reacting to widening quarterly losses and an uncertain future. The company’s stock dropped by as much as 4.5 sen, or nearly 5%, to 91.5 sen , giving it a market capitalisation of RM2.13 billion . The petrochemical company faces challenges as product spreads remain under pressure due to a global supply glut , primarily from new capacity expansions in China . Analysts at TA Securities noted that Lotte Chemical is likely to stay in the red “over the next few quarters” and maintained a 'sell' rating on the stock. The company has reported quarterly losses since 2QFY2022 and is expected to continue to report losses through this year. Analysts estimate that Lotte Chemical may not return to profitability for another two years , according to Bloomberg consensus data. A significant challenge for Lotte Chemical is the squeeze in spreads between naphtha costs and polymer sel

Investors Seek Safe Havens in Asia Ahead of US Election

Investors are turning to cash, India, China's markets, and Singapore dollars as they brace for the impact of the upcoming US presidential election on global financial flows. As Asia is highly sensitive to changes in US trade policies, many money managers are steering clear of risky bets and focusing on reducing exposure to vulnerable sectors, such as Japanese manufacturers and Hong Kong stocks.

Jon Withaar of Pictet Asset Management highlights China as a stable market with domestic drivers that may be less affected by global movements, while Nick Ferres of Vantage Point Asset Management is staying cautious, maintaining short positions on the yen and focusing on Japanese stocks. With Republican candidate Donald Trump currently leading in betting odds, investors anticipate inflationary pressures and rising interest rates under a potential Trump administration.

Meanwhile, India's strong domestic growth and limited exposure to global trade risks make its markets appealing. Similarly, the Singapore dollar is expected to perform well, given the city's monetary policies.

However, with the election outcome too close to predict, many investors are waiting for clarity before making significant moves, while emerging markets, particularly China and North Asia, remain strong investment areas, poised to perform well post-election.

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