Malaysia’s corporate landscape saw a mix of fundraising activities, renewable energy expansion, IPO enthusiasm and balance sheet restructuring dominate headlines, reflecting continued investor appetite for growth and defensive sectors despite broader market caution. Tenaga Advances Renewable Energy Push KL: TENAGA strengthened its renewable energy ambitions after its subsidiary issued RM1.05 billion in Asean Green SRI Sukuk to finance a 500MW solar photovoltaic project in Kedah . The issuance highlights increasing institutional support for green financing and reinforces Tenaga’s long-term transition towards cleaner energy infrastructure. Investors may view the move positively as ESG-linked investments continue gaining traction across regional markets. Mr DIY Expands Funding Flexibility KL: MRDIY raised RM540 million via its maiden bond issuance , with proceeds earmarked for refinancing, working capital and expansion plans. The ...
The ringgit is forecast to remain under pressure against the US dollar in the near term, driven by the Federal Reserve’s less dovish monetary stance, according to Kenanga Research.
Key Projections
- Exchange Rate: The ringgit is expected to stay above 4.50 against the US dollar going into 2025.
- Recent Performance: The ringgit, which had gained 15% against the dollar between January and September, has since retreated amid the strength of the US economy. It last traded at 4.5060, up 1.88% year-to-date.
Factors Influencing the Ringgit
- US Economic Strength: Strong domestic demand and inflationary pressures are propping up the dollar.
- Fed’s Monetary Policy: The Fed’s cautious approach to rate cuts bolsters the dollar’s appeal, with markets anticipating only one rate cut in 2025.
- Trump’s Policies: Uncertainty around policies under the incoming US administration may lead the Fed to delay cuts further.
Outlook for 2025
- Kenanga projects two to three Fed rate cuts in 2025, which could provide relief for the ringgit in the latter half of the year.
- In Malaysia, Bank Negara’s overnight policy rate is expected to remain steady at 3% through 2025.
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