KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 8 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia closed almost flat on Tuesday as buying interest rotated away from index heavyweights towards smaller-cap construction stocks, with sentiment affected by geopolitical uncertainty, said an analyst. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) eased 0.39 of a point to 1,714.40 from Monday’s close of 1,714.79. The benchmark index opened 1.65 points lower at 1,713.14 and moved between 1,710.44 and 1,714.50 throughout the trading session. The broader market was almost evenly balanced, with decliners leading gainers 548 to 546, while 598 counters were unchanged, 1,107 were untraded and 25 were suspended. Turnover expanded to 4.13 billion units valued at RM3.14 billion from 3.60 billion units valued at RM2.45 billion on Monday.
Singapore’s grocery retail sector continues to display resilience, with RHB keeping its “Overweight” rating on retail staples, citing steady earnings, defensive positioning, and reliable dividend payouts. Sector Outlook Resilient earnings underpinned by defensive demand. Supermarket sales averaged 127 index points (Jan–Jun 2025) , above the 2024 average of 124. Growth supported by stronger consumer demand and new public housing developments. Estates like Kranji could open long-term expansion opportunities, particularly for Sheng Siong, given its track record of aligning with HDB launches. Top Picks Sheng Siong (SGX: OV8) Earnings CAGR: Projected at 10% through FY2027 . 1H25 performance: Stronger revenue and improved margins prompted RHB to raise forecasts. Store expansion: New outlets now average 8,500 sq ft , larger than the earlier 6,000 sq ft estimate — boosting leverage and margin potential. Valuation: Trading a...