Malaysia will see higher fuel prices for the week of May 21–27, reflecting the continued impact of elevated global oil prices driven by geopolitical tensions . Fuel Prices Increase Across Key Categories The Ministry of Finance announced the following adjustments: RON97: +15 sen to RM4.85/litre Unsubsidised RON95: +20 sen to RM4.07/litre Diesel (Peninsular): +10 sen to RM4.97/litre The increases highlight the pass-through effect of global crude price spikes into domestic fuel costs. Oil Prices Remain Elevated Global energy markets continue to face pressure: Brent crude ~US$110 per barrel Up nearly 60% from pre-conflict levels (~US$70) The prolonged Middle East conflict has: Disrupted supply routes Increased shipping and insurance costs Added inflationary pressure globally Subsidies Cushion Impact for Consumers Despite rising market prices, government subsidies remain in place: Subsidised RON95: ...
Global equities rebounded as strong AI-driven earnings from Nvidia and easing supply risks at Samsung boosted investor confidence, helping markets recover from recent losses.
AI Momentum Drives Market Rebound
Stocks rallied across regions following upbeat results from Nvidia:
- S&P 500 +1.1%
- Nasdaq Composite +1.5%
Nvidia’s better-than-expected revenue outlook reinforced the view that AI demand remains strong, supporting the broader semiconductor sector.
Asian Markets Snap Losing Streak
The MSCI Asia-Pacific ex-Japan Index rose 1.2%, ending a four-day decline.
Key movers:
- Kospi +4%
- Nikkei 225 +1.9%
- Australia equities +1.5%
The rebound reflects renewed risk appetite driven by AI optimism.
Samsung Strike Suspension Eases Supply Concerns
Samsung Electronics surged over 6% after its union suspended planned industrial action.
- Avoids disruption involving ~48,000 workers
- Reduces risk to global semiconductor supply chains
This development removes a key near-term uncertainty for the chip sector.
Oil Stabilises as Hormuz Traffic Resumes
Energy markets remained volatile but showed signs of stabilisation:
- Brent crude ~US$105.76 (+0.7%)
- Some oil tankers resumed passage through the Strait of Hormuz
Easing supply fears helped improve overall market sentiment.
Fed Concerns on Inflation Keep Yields Elevated
Despite the equity rebound, macro risks remain:
- US 10-year yield ~4.59%
- Federal Reserve officials signaled ongoing inflation concerns
- Possibility of further rate hikes remains on the table
Higher yields continue to pose a headwind for equities.
Market Reaction to Nvidia Remains Measured
Despite strong results, Nvidia shares slipped slightly in after-hours trading, suggesting:
- High expectations already priced in
- Investors seeking stronger upside surprises
This indicates a shift toward more disciplined market reactions in the AI space.
Investor Takeaways
- Global stocks rebounded, driven by AI earnings strength and easing geopolitical concerns.
- Nvidia results confirm continued AI demand, supporting semiconductor stocks.
- Samsung’s strike suspension reduces supply chain risks.
- Oil remains elevated, but improved supply flow is stabilising sentiment.
- Rising yields and inflation concerns remain key risks for markets.
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