Empire Premium Food Bhd , the operator of the Empire Sushi chain , has launched its Main Market IPO , aiming to raise RM254 million to fund aggressive expansion across Malaysia. IPO Details and Valuation The offering is indicatively priced at 70 sen per share , implying a market capitalisation of RM770 million and a valuation of 20.3 times FY2025 earnings . RM152.6 million will go to the company RM96.3 million will be raised by existing shareholders (founders) Listing is scheduled for April 17 , with pricing on April 7 For FY2025, the group reported: Net profit: RM37.9 million Revenue: RM235.6 million Expansion Strategy Drives Growth Story A key IPO driver is Empire’s aggressive outlet expansion plan . The group aims to open 56 new outlets over the next three years , focusing on high-traffic locations such as: Shopping malls Airports Transit hubs More than 51% of IPO proceed...
Summary
Global markets rebounded as oil prices fell sharply on renewed hopes of a Middle East ceasefire, easing inflation fears and supporting equities. However, volatility remains high as negotiations are still uncertain.
Oil Slides, Markets Turn Positive
Oil prices declined significantly:
- Brent crude fell over 4%, slipping below US$100 per barrel
- The drop reflects reduced geopolitical risk premium
Asian equities responded positively, with markets in Japan, South Korea, and Australia advancing. US futures also climbed more than 0.7%.
Key Point: Falling oil prices are easing inflation concerns and boosting global equities
Ceasefire Talks Drive Optimism
Sentiment improved after reports of diplomatic progress:
- US reportedly sent Iran a 15-point proposal
- Discussions ongoing for a potential 30-day ceasefire
- High-level peace talks may begin soon
Despite this, the situation remains fluid, with ongoing military activity and uncertainty over Iran’s response.
Key Point: Markets are reacting to headlines, not confirmed outcomes
Inflation Pressures Ease, Dollar Weakens
- Bloomberg Dollar Index: -0.2%
- US 10-year Treasury yield: 4.34% (slightly lower)
- Gold rose to around US$4,550
- Bitcoin climbed to ~US$70,500
Lower oil prices are reducing expectations of further rate hikes, supporting both equities and alternative assets.
Key Point: Lower yields and weaker dollar reflect easing inflation expectations
Strait of Hormuz Remains the Key Risk
The biggest uncertainty remains the critical energy route:
- Iran still controls access to the Strait of Hormuz
- Transit restrictions and new fees signal continued tension
- Full reopening remains the key trigger for sustained market recovery
Key Point: Market stability depends heavily on oil supply normalization
Other Risks Emerging
Beyond geopolitics, financial stress is building elsewhere:
- Large firms like Ares Management and Apollo Global Management restricted investor withdrawals
- Signals growing strain in the US$1.8 trillion private credit market
Key Point: Hidden financial risks could resurface even if geopolitical tensions ease
Conclusion
Markets are stabilising as oil retreats and ceasefire hopes build, but the situation remains highly uncertain. Investors are closely watching developments around the Strait of Hormuz and diplomatic progress.
Key Point: This remains a headline-driven market, with oil prices dictating short-term direction
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