Intel heads into its April 23 earnings with rising investor expectations , but the key question remains whether AI-driven CPU demand can offset ongoing margin weakness . Revenue Stable, But Margins Under Pressure Intel is expected to deliver Q1 revenue around US$12.4 billion , slightly above the midpoint of its guidance range. However, the real concern lies in profitability: Gross margin guided at 34.5% , down from 39.2% a year ago EPS near breakeven (~US$0.00) vs US$0.13 last year This highlights continued pressure from costs, utilisation, and product mix , despite improving demand signals. AI CPUs: A Key Growth Driver Intel’s near-term bullish case centers on AI-related CPU demand , particularly its Xeon processors. A key development is its partnership with Alphabet , which reinforces: Intel’s role in AI data centre infrastructure Growing demand for AI inference and general-purpose computing Investors will watch c...
As 2024 concludes, Malaysia’s IPO market has experienced its most vibrant year in over a decade. With 55 companies going public, marking a 71% increase compared to 2023, Bursa Malaysia has cemented itself as a top destination for investors seeking high returns.
Key Highlights from 2024 IPOs
1. Record Number of Listings
- Total IPOs: 55, the highest since 2009.
- ACE Market Dominance: 40 IPOs, the most since the market's inception.
- Main and ACE Market Combined: 51 IPOs, with 46 companies posting gains on their first trading day, resulting in a 90% success rate for investors.
2. Top Performers
- UUE Holdings Bhd ($UUE 0310.MY$):
- First-day gain: +189.6% (largest IPO surge of the year).
- Sector: Underground utility construction and pipeline solutions.
- Ocean Fresh Berhad ($OFB 0312.MY$):
- First-day gain: +170% (frozen seafood processor, exporter, wholesaler, and retailer).
- Go Hub Capital Bhd ($GOHUB 0311.MY$):
- First-day gain: +170% (specializing in corporate IT solutions, particularly for the railway sector).
3. Post-IPO Performance Leaders
- Go Hub Capital Bhd:
- Year-to-date gain: +282.9%.
- UUE Holdings Bhd:
- Year-to-date gain: +243.8%.
- MTEC ($MTEC 0295.MY$):
- Year-to-date gain: +215.4% (focused on power cable manufacturing and sales).
Why 2024 Was a Breakout Year for IPOs
- Positive Economic Momentum:
- Political stability and robust economic growth attracted foreign investors.
- High Oversubscriptions:
- Strong foreign interest boosted valuations and listing performance.
- Sector Diversity:
- From utility solutions to frozen seafood, the IPOs showcased diverse industries with strong market demand.
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