KUALA LUMPUR, July 31 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia ended higher on Friday as investors continued to accumulate blue-chip stocks in line with stronger performances across most regional markets. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) rose 4.50 points to 1,724.90 from yesterday’s close of 1,720.40. The benchmark index opened 0.83 of a point higher at 1,721.23, and moved between 1,715.67 and 1,730.12 throughout the day. The broader market was positive with gainers outpacing losers 707 to 402, while 547 counters were unchanged, 1,085 untraded and 56 suspended. Turnover expanded to 3.03 billion units valued at RM3.56 billion from 2.49 billion units valued at RM2.25 billion on Thursday.
Global markets turned risk-off on Monday as renewed US-Iran tensions shattered last week’s optimism, sending oil prices sharply higher and US equity futures lower . Risk Sentiment Deteriorates After Weekend Escalation Futures tied to the S&P 500 dropped nearly 1% , reversing momentum after the index closed at a record high last week. The shift comes after: Iran signaled it may skip upcoming peace talks The US maintained its naval blockade around the Strait of Hormuz Escalating rhetoric between both sides raised fears of prolonged conflict This highlights how recent market gains were largely driven by optimism rather than concrete progress . Oil Prices Spike as Supply Risks Intensify Crude markets reacted sharply to the renewed tensions: Brent crude surged more than 7% The escalation threatens global energy supply routes , particularly the Strait of Hormuz , a critical oil transit chokepoint. Analysts...