KUALA LUMPUR, July 29 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia rebounded to close higher on Wednesday on selective buying of defensive stocks after a volatile trading session. IPPFA Sdn Bhd director of investment strategy and country economist Mohd Sedek Jantan said consumer products and services stocks lifted the key index higher, overcoming lingering geopolitical concerns. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) rose 3.08 points to 1,715.56 from yesterday’s close of 1,712.48. The benchmark index, which opened 1.91 points higher at 1,714.39, moved between 1,710.79 and 1,720.59 during the day’s trading. In the broader market, gainers outstripped decliners 550 to 476, while 612 counters were unchanged, 1,129 untraded, and 48 suspended. Turnover rose to 2.96 billion units valued at RM2.48 billion from 2.94 billion units valued at RM2.56 billion on Tuesday.
Key Takeaway The US has officially cut tariffs on Japanese cars and auto parts from 25% to 15% under a new trade deal with Japan. In return, Tokyo will lower tariffs on US goods and commit US$550 billion to US infrastructure projects. What Happened President Trump signed an executive order Thursday, finalizing last month’s trade pact. The new auto tariff rates are retroactive to Aug. 7 . This marks a significant shift in US-Japan trade relations, aiming to reduce tension and strengthen economic ties. Market Impact Japanese automakers rallied : Toyota (TM): +2.40% Honda (HMC): +1.91% US carmakers also gained modestly: Ford (F): +0.52% EV stocks like Lucid (LCID) slipped, reflecting competitive concerns. Investor Angle Lower tariffs should: Boost competitiveness of Japanese automakers in the US. Open opportunities for US exporters gaining improved access to Japan. Channel massive Japanese capital into US infrastructure — potentially lifting relate...