KUALA LUMPUR, July 31 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia ended higher on Friday as investors continued to accumulate blue-chip stocks in line with stronger performances across most regional markets. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) rose 4.50 points to 1,724.90 from yesterday’s close of 1,720.40. The benchmark index opened 0.83 of a point higher at 1,721.23, and moved between 1,715.67 and 1,730.12 throughout the day. The broader market was positive with gainers outpacing losers 707 to 402, while 547 counters were unchanged, 1,085 untraded and 56 suspended. Turnover expanded to 3.03 billion units valued at RM3.56 billion from 2.49 billion units valued at RM2.25 billion on Thursday.
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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