KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia closed higher, buoyed by Bank Negara Malaysia’s (BNM) decision to maintain the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) at 2.75 per cent, alongside positive cues from Wall Street. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) rose 19.30 points, or 1.19 per cent, to 1,635.86 from Wednesday’s close of 1,616.56. The benchmark index opened 6.72 points higher at 1,623.28, and fluctuated between an intraday high of 1,642.44 and a low of 1,622.62 during the trading session. However, market breadth was negative, with losers outnumbering gainers 723 to 497, while 466 counters were unchanged, 1,075 untraded and 10 suspended. Turnover rose to 3.74 billion units valued at RM3.61 billion compared with yesterday’s 2.81 billion units valued at RM2.57 billion.
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...