KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 8 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia closed almost flat on Tuesday as buying interest rotated away from index heavyweights towards smaller-cap construction stocks, with sentiment affected by geopolitical uncertainty, said an analyst. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) eased 0.39 of a point to 1,714.40 from Monday’s close of 1,714.79. The benchmark index opened 1.65 points lower at 1,713.14 and moved between 1,710.44 and 1,714.50 throughout the trading session. The broader market was almost evenly balanced, with decliners leading gainers 548 to 546, while 598 counters were unchanged, 1,107 were untraded and 25 were suspended. Turnover expanded to 4.13 billion units valued at RM3.14 billion from 3.60 billion units valued at RM2.45 billion on Monday.
Singapore is doubling down on its capital markets. Here’s what investors need to know.
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) will deploy S$5 billion into local equities through select fund managers, marking a major initiative to breathe new life into the SGX and position Singapore as a top-tier investment destination.
This is part of a broad reform package driven by a high-level review group aimed at addressing long-standing issues plaguing the local bourse — including low trading volumes, weak valuations, and a sluggish IPO pipeline.
Key Highlights:
MAS Market Catalyst Fund:
MAS will partner with active fund managers to invest in a wide range of Singapore-listed companies. The goal? Inject liquidity and stimulate institutional interest in local stocks.
Reworked Global Investor Programme (GIP):
Applicants will now be required to invest at least S$50 million into Singapore-listed equities, sharpening focus on local market participation.
Corporate Tax Rebates:
20% rebate for new listings on SGX (up to S$6 million annually).
10% rebate for secondary listings with share issuance.
Applies to companies with ≥S$1 billion market cap and valid until end-2027.
Fund Manager Incentives:
5% concessionary tax rate for new fund listings in Singapore.
Tax exemptions for funds with ≥30% AUM in SGX stocks and consistent net inflows.
Scheme valid through end-2028.
Structural Reforms:
Streamlined listing rules: SGX RegCo may soon become the sole approval body, reducing dual-layer oversight with MAS.
Simplified prospectus and watch-list rules to reduce regulatory friction.
“Trade With Caution” labels to expire after 2 weeks, minimizing market overreaction.
What This Means for Investors:
More liquidity and institutional flow expected in SGX counters, especially mid-caps.
Better exit pathways for VCs and private equity firms considering IPOs.
Higher visibility for quality local and regional companies, attracting long-term capital.
Insight:
"These are the most significant changes to Singapore’s equity markets since the early 2000s," said Temasek CEO Dilhan Pillay.
VC leaders like Shane Chesson (Openspace Ventures) also welcomed the move, suggesting that a wave of “homecoming IPOs” could follow.
Investor Takeaway:
Singapore is serious about reviving its capital markets. With billions in institutional firepower, tax perks, and regulatory upgrades, SGX may soon become a more attractive destination for listings and equity flows — a compelling opportunity to relook at undervalued local stocks and participate early in a potential renaissance.
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