KUALA LUMPUR, June 18 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia’s key index finished marginally higher, supported by strong buying interest in consumer-related counters, amid mixed performance across regional markets. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) rose by 1.40 points, or 0.08 per cent, to 1,711.39 from Tuesday's close of 1,709.99. The key index opened 12.36 points firmer at 1,722.35 and moved between 1,711.31 and 1,722.63 throughout the session. Market breadth was negative, with losers leading gainers 678 to 493, while 549 counters were unchanged, 1,016 untraded and 34 suspended. Turnover increased to 4.50 billion units worth RM3.45 billion from 3.93 billion units worth RM3.45 billion on Tuesday.
Trade Talk Update: Deadline May Not Be Doomsday
The White House has signaled that the much-anticipated July 9 deadline for global tariff deals might be flexible, easing fears of an immediate trade war escalation.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated Thursday that President Trump could extend the deadline if necessary, noting, “The deadline is not critical… the president can simply provide these countries with the deal if they refuse to make us one.”
So far, the administration has:
Finalized a tariff pact with the UK
Reached a trade truce with China
Ongoing negotiations with a dozen more nations
Why It Matters for Markets
Global markets have been jittery about the July 9 date, when the U.S. could reimpose reciprocal tariffs as high as 50%if deals aren't struck. The news that the deadline may be extended relieves some near-term pressure and gives investors breathing room.
MoneyMaster Take:
The risk of immediate tariff hikes is now reduced, lowering short-term volatility.
Negotiation extension signals the White House is prioritizing deals over deadlines — positive for multinationals.
Tariff-sensitive sectors like autos, semiconductors, and consumer goods may see a temporary rebound.
Investor Angle: What to Watch Next
Keep an eye on new deals being announced — the pace of agreements will guide market optimism.
U.S. trade dynamics will shape currency movements, especially for USD, EUR, and CNY.
Companies with high overseas exposure (e.g., Apple, Nvidia, Toyota) could benefit if tariff tensions ease further.
Watchlist:
July 9 remains a key date, but a hard deadline is less likely.
Follow upcoming trade announcements with India, Japan, and the EU.
Portfolio Move:
Stay long on global exporters and rotate into tariff-exposed laggards if more truce announcements come in.
Hedge positions in sensitive sectors until deal clarity improves.
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