KUALA LUMPUR, March 30 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia’s benchmark index closed lower today, in line with most regional markets, as investors adjusted their risk exposure amid spiralling oil prices driven by the ongoing West Asia conflict, now in its second month. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) retreated by 24.75 points or 1.44 per cent to 1,687.90 from Friday’s close of 1,712.65. The market bellwether opened 10.57 points weaker at 1,702.08 and fluctuated between 1,682.79 and 1,702.38. The broader market was bearish, with decliners thumping advancers 956 to 371. A total of 373 counters were unchanged, 1,042 untraded and 134 suspended. Turnover expanded to 3.98 billion units worth RM4.85 billion from last Friday’s 2.97 billion units worth RM3.25 billion.
Global markets slid on Friday as concerns over a potential US government shutdown mounted and Donald Trump’s trade threats against Europe heightened tensions. Investors also focused on upcoming US inflation data that could influence Federal Reserve policy for 2025.
Key Market Highlights
1. US Government Shutdown Risks
- A spending bill failed in the House of Representatives on Thursday, highlighting political volatility under President-elect Donald Trump.
- Trump’s proposed tariffs and spending policies have increased uncertainty, with credit default swaps (CDS) on six-month US bills rising to a four-week high of 11 basis points.
2. Trump’s Trade Threats
- Trump warned the European Union to increase purchases of US oil and gas or face tariffs:
- “Otherwise, it is TARIFFS all the way!!!” he stated on Truth Social.
- European stocks fell 1%, marking a 3% weekly drop, as US stock futures slipped 0.7%-1.1%.
3. Inflation and Fed Policy Outlook
- The Core Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE), a key US inflation measure, is expected to rise 0.2% in November.
- A higher reading could further reduce expectations for rate cuts next year, with markets now pricing in fewer than two cuts for 2025.
4. Treasury and Currency Market Impact
- 10-year Treasury yields surpassed 4.5% for the first time since May, amid a cautious Fed stance.
- Dollar Performance:
- Down 0.3% at 108.12, but close to a two-year peak of 108.43.
- Euro gained 0.2% to US$1.03925.
- Yen recovered 0.4%, trading at 156.87, after plunging 1.7% the previous day due to the Bank of Japan's dovish stance.
5. Commodity Prices
- Oil: US West Texas Intermediate fell 0.6% to US$68.96.
- Gold: Gained 0.5% to US$2,605 per ounce, benefiting from safe-haven demand.
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