KUALA LUMPUR, April 3 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia closed marginally lower on Friday, as cautious sentiment persisted, with investors remaining on the sidelines amid ongoing conflicts in West Asia, said an analyst. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) eased 2.80 points, or 0.16 per cent, to 1,695.50 from Thursday’s close of 1,698.30. The benchmark index opened 5.82 points higher at 1,704.12, and moved between 1,693.65 and 1,708.12 throughout the day. However, market breadth remained positive, with gainers outnumbering losers 634 to 415, while 521 counters were unchanged, 1,077 untraded and 10 suspended. Turnover improved to 3.38 billion units worth RM2.95 billion from yesterday’s 3.20 billion units worth RM3.50 billion.
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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