KUALA LUMPUR, May 11 (Bernama) -- Late selling pressure dragged Bursa Malaysia into negative territory at the close, reversing earlier gains as profit-taking in heavyweight banking and transportation counters dampen overall market sentiment. At 5 pm, the benchmark FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) eased 2.75 points to 1,745.31 from Friday’s close of 1,748.06. The benchmark index, which opened 5.94 points firmer at 1,754.0, moved between 1,744.99 and 1,754.0 during the trading session. Market breadth was positive with gainers leading losers 562 to 558. A total of 636 counters were unchanged, 897 untraded, and 12 suspended. Turnover increased to 4.20 billion units worth RM3.17 billion compared with 3.31 billion units worth RM3.00 billion on Friday.
Earnings Slump Due to Market Oversupply
- Lynas Rare Earths Ltd reported a net income of A$5.9 million (US$3.7 million) for the six months ending Dec 31, far below analyst expectations of A$32.2 million.
- Shares fell as much as 5.8% in Sydney following the disappointing results.
- No interim dividend declared as the company navigates weak market conditions.
Why Did Profits Drop?
- Rare earth prices have fallen nearly 70% since their 2022 peak, due to China’s strong output and economic slowdown.
- Despite a 30% recovery since March 2024, prices remain volatile.
- Lynas faces cost pressures as it expands operations in Australia, Malaysia, and the U.S.
Market Outlook & Strategic Positioning
- CEO Amanda Lacaze sees current market challenges as short-term but acknowledges price weakness.
- Jefferies analysts highlight Lynas’ strategic positioning to benefit from any future price rebounds.
- The U.S. and Australia continue efforts to reduce reliance on China, but price declines have slowed new project development.
Summary:
- Lynas' profit collapsed 85% to A$5.9M due to weak rare earth prices.
- Stock fell 5.8% as market oversupply and China’s dominance weigh on earnings.
- Despite challenges, Lynas is expanding operations in Australia, Malaysia, and the U.S.
- Future success depends on price recovery and disciplined financial management.
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