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 equities found temporary footing after oil prices retreated, but volatility remains elevated as the US–Israeli war with Iran continues to cloud the outlook for inflation and growth. While reports of a potential historic oil reserve release helped calm markets, investors remain focused on whether energy disruptions will persist — and for how long. Key Takeaways Shares rebound as oil pulls back from recent highs Brent crude volatile around US$87 per barrel Dollar remains the dominant safe-haven asset Bond yields steady but inflation fears linger Markets trading on headlines, not long-term outlook Oil Turbulence Drives Market Mood Brent crude swung between gains and losses, trading around US$87 per barrel, while US crude hovered near US$83. The pullback followed a report that the International Energy Agency proposed its largest-ever oil reserve release to ease supply pressure. However, markets remain sensitive to any signs of prolonged disruption through the Strait of Hormuz. Analy...