KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 24 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia ended marginally lower on Monday as investors awaited further corporate earnings results for clearer market direction, an analyst said. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) eased 0.15 of a point to 1,736.33 from last Friday’s close of 1,736.48. The benchmark index opened 1.83 points higher at 1,738.31, and fluctuated between 1,733.07 and 1,739.47 throughout the day. On the broader market, losers trounced gainers 714 to 482, while 539 counters were unchanged, 1,139 untraded and 46 suspended. Turnover decreased to 3.60 billion units valued at RM3.03 billion from 3.91 billion units valued at RM3.32 billion last Friday.
Singapore equities opened firmer as a rebound in US technology stocks and easing risk sentiment supported regional markets, while investors focused on potential value-unlocking moves in the banking sector.
Market Snapshot
The Straits Times Index (STI) rose 0.18% to 4,972.54, with advancers outpacing decliners (75 vs 41) in early trade, reflecting cautious optimism.
Wall Street Recovery Driven by Tech
US markets stabilised after last week’s selloff, led by a sharp rebound in semiconductor and tech names:
- Nasdaq +0.9%, S&P 500 +0.3%, while Dow -0.2%
- Intel surged 11.2%
- Micron Technology gained 9.9%
- Marvell Technology rallied on index inclusion
The move highlights resilient investor conviction in AI-driven growth, despite recent volatility.
Singapore Labour Market Shows Caution
Hiring sentiment weakened, with outlook falling to +13% for Q3 2026, the lowest since 2021.
- Companies are holding headcount steady amid geopolitical uncertainty
- Demand remains strong for AI-related skills, signalling a shift toward quality hiring over expansion
S-REITs Outlook Remains Constructive
Brokerages remain positive on Singapore REITs:
- Attractive yields (~6.2%) and stable cash flows
- Expected ~3% DPU growth over FY26–FY27
- Easing interest rate pressure supports sector recovery
Stocks in Focus: Value Unlock and Strategic Shifts
- UOB: Potential asset management unit sale could unlock value and strengthen wealth management strategy
- OCBC Bank: Launch of physical gold services reflects rising demand for safe-haven assets
- AsiaPhos: Expanding into data centre exposure, aligning with digital infrastructure growth
- Wee Hur: Entering student accommodation segment in Hong Kong, diversifying income streams
Investor Takeaways
- Tech rebound in the US is supporting regional market sentiment.
- AI remains a key structural theme, driving both hiring trends and equity performance.
- Singapore banks are exploring strategic moves to unlock shareholder value.
- REITs offer attractive yield opportunities as rate pressures stabilise.
- Labour market caution signals slower near-term growth momentum.
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