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.
Key Takeaway Japan’s economy grew faster than expected in Q2 2025 , with GDP revised to +2.2% annualized from an earlier estimate of 1.0%. The upside surprise was driven by stronger private consumption and exports, providing some support amid ongoing trade and political uncertainty. Details of the Revision Quarter-on-quarter growth: +0.5% (vs. +0.3% in the initial reading) Private consumption: +0.4% — households boosted spending, especially in services and retail Domestic demand: +0.2% annualized Exports: +2%, aided by a weaker yen , which improved overseas competitiveness Investor Implications Short-term lift: Stronger consumer spending and export momentum show resilience, giving policymakers breathing space. Caution ahead: Trade headwinds from U.S. tariffs and Japan’s political uncertainty (after PM Ishiba’s resignation) could weigh on Q3 performance. Market focus: Investors will watch whether consumption can stay stron...