KUALA LUMPUR, May 21 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia ended at its intraday low on Thursday as investor sentiment remained cautious amid ongoing foreign outflows, although the recent weakness may present bargain-hunting opportunities in fundamentally sound blue-chip counters. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) eased 9.33 points, or 0.54 per cent, to 1,708.36, from yesterday’s close of 1,717.69. The benchmark index, which opened 3.74 points higher at 1,721.43, hit an intraday high of 1,722.50 in early trade before losing momentum for the rest of the day. Market breadth was negative, with losers outpacing gainers 656 to 508, while 565 counters were unchanged, 989 untraded and 32 suspended. Turnover fell to 3.49 billion units worth RM3.70 billion compared with 4.15 billion units worth RM4.29 billion on Wednesday.
Quick Summary French wine and spirits exports fell for a second straight year , hit by weak global demand , trade wars , and policy headwinds from the US and China . What Happened Exports dropped 8% to €14.3 billion in 2025 Down from €15.6 billion in 2024 Export volumes fell ~3% , signalling both price and demand pressure According to France’s wine and spirits exporters federation (FEVS), the downturn reflects geopolitical tensions, trade conflicts, currency swings, and declining consumer confidence . Where the Pain Is Coming From Exports to China: -20% , after Beijing imposed anti-dumping measures on EU brandy Exports to the US: -21% , following tariffs imposed under the Trump administration Key issue: Two of France’s biggest buyers are simultaneously pulling back. Structural Challenges Add Pressure France’s wine industry is also grappling with: Weak global alcohol consumption trends Extreme weather affecti...