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.
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...