KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 5 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia closed lower on Friday amid mixed regional market performance as investors turned cautious over a possible rate hike by the Bank of Japan (BOJ) and upcoming US economic data that may influence the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) interest rate decision next week. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) pared most earlier losses to settle 4.55 points easier, or 0.28 per cent, to 1,616.52 from Thursday’s close of 1,621.07. The benchmark index, which opened 0.37 of-a-point lower at 1,620.70, moved between 1,609.67 and 1,621.25 throughout the day. The broader market was negative, with decliners outpacing advancers 604 to 439. A total of 550 counters were unchanged, 1,151 untraded, and 18 suspended. Turnover declined to 3.17 billion units worth RM2.24 billion from 4.48 billion units worth RM2.75 billion yesterday. Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd vice-presiden...
Real Estate Watch
Mortgage rates in the U.S. fell for the fourth straight week, hitting 6.77% — the lowest level since early May. While still close to 7%, the drop offers some breathing room for potential buyers.
What’s Driving the Shift?
Cooling inflation expectations and Fed rate cut optimism.
Softening in new purchase contracts (-2.3% in 4 weeks).
Lower listings in 20 of the top 50 metro areas — a sign some sellers are holding back.
Affordability Still a Challenge
Despite better bargaining power for buyers, affordability remains tight. Many economists say significantly lower rates are needed to truly stimulate demand.
MoneyMaster Take — Key Insights:
Lower mortgage rates = slight relief for homebuyers.
Housing market tilts toward buyers — more choice, more negotiation power.
But affordability headwinds persist — don’t expect a boom.
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