MONEY MASTER

Despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s latest tariff threats,  Asian markets are moving forward with surprising resilience . On Thursday, stocks across the region climbed while currencies regained ground — a clear signal that investors are starting to discount the noise and focus on fundamentals. Let’s break down what’s happening and where the smart money is going. Tariffs? Investors Say “Not So Fast” Trump’s Aug 1 deadline for sweeping new tariffs is looming, and the rhetoric remains aggressive — no more extensions, a flurry of demand letters, and fresh duties on countries like Brazil and the Philippines. But the markets?  They’re not panicking. “Investors shrugged off Trump’s warning… as trade rhetoric,” said DBS analysts. Instead of reacting emotionally, the market is betting that  the worst-case trade war scenario is unlikely to unfold . In other words,  there’s room to invest — selectively. Winners in the Region 🇰🇷 South Korea South Korea’s equity index surged...

With trade uncertainty looming and growth indicators turning cautious,  expectations are rising  that  Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM)  may  cut interest rates  as early as  next week’s July 9 policy meeting  — the same day US President Trump’s tariff deadline hits. What’s Driving the Rate Cut Expectations? Domestic Demand at Risk : HSBC sees early signs of softening household consumption, particularly with  subsidy rationalisation  and  SST (sales & service tax) expansion  dampening sentiment. Exports Contracting : Malaysia’s  May exports shrank by 1.1% , a sign of weakening global demand and lingering tariff risk. No clear breakthrough in US-Malaysia trade talks has been announced yet. Slowing Credit Momentum : CIMB flags  broad-based weakness in private-sector borrowing , hinting that businesses and households are growing cautious. Revised Growth Outlook : The government is  preparing to downgrade  its cur...