Singapore is exploring plans to expand its gold storage capacity as it seeks to position itself as a major global bullion trading hub , targeting central bank reserves and institutional flows. Strategic Push Into Bullion Market Authorities are evaluating potential sites — including areas near Changi Airport — to enhance vaulting infrastructure for gold storage , according to sources familiar with the discussions. The Monetary Authority of Singapore confirmed it is considering the use of existing facilities for gold vaulting , though it stopped short of confirming expansion plans. The move aligns with Singapore’s broader ambition to strengthen its role in precious metals trading and financial services . Targeting Central Banks and Institutional Demand A key objective is to attract central banks , which collectively hold around 39,000 tonnes of gold , accounting for roughly 18% of global supply , according to the World Gold...
Higher Finance Costs, Weaker Revenue Impact Earnings
- Genting Bhd (KL:GENTING) reported a net loss of RM169.39 million for 4QFY2024, reversing from a RM150.99 million profit a year earlier.
- The group's first quarterly loss since 4QFY2022 was driven by higher finance costs, net impairment losses, and increased losses from joint ventures and associates.
- Quarterly revenue fell 5.3% to RM6.88 billion due to weaker performance in the leisure and hospitality segment, exacerbated by the strengthening of the ringgit against key foreign currencies.
Dividend Declared at Lower Payout
- Final dividend of 5 sen per share, down from 9 sen last year, bringing total FY2024 dividend to 11 sen per share, compared to 15 sen in FY2023.
Financial Performance Breakdown
- Adjusted EBITDA down 27% YoY to RM1.68 billion from RM2.29 billion.
- Finance costs rose 35.1% to RM513.36 million.
- Impairment losses declined 54.7% to RM26.94 million.
- Share of losses from joint ventures and associates surged over 3x to RM69.29 million.
Full-Year Net Profit Drops Despite Higher Revenue
- FY2024 net profit fell 5% to RM882.95 million despite revenue rising 2.21% to RM27.72 billion.
- Full-year adjusted EBITDA remained stable at RM8.78 billion, compared to RM8.84 billion in FY2023.
Outlook: Optimism in Tourism, Gaming & Expansion
- Genting expects global tourism growth to sustain recovery, benefiting its regional gaming market.
- Genting Malaysia Bhd (KL:GENM) is cautiously optimistic, focusing on:
- Marketing strategies to boost visitation at Resorts World Genting (RWG).
- New ecotourism experiences and infrastructure upgrades at Genting Highlands.
- 60th-anniversary promotional events to attract more visitors.
- In the US, Genting aims to expand its market presence and operational capabilities.
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