Kuala Lumpur's trusted voice for news, politics and business.
Financial markets remain volatile through August with focus on yen stability, potential Iran-Oman negotiations over Gulf shipping, and critical U.S. inflation data that could influence Federal Reserve decisions on interest rates.
Malaysia's central bank is expected to keep interest rates unchanged through 2026 as economic growth strengthens and inflation remains under control, according to multiple research houses.
Malaysia has maintained stable food prices despite Middle East tensions disrupting global shipping by implementing targeted agricultural subsidies and building sector resilience. Strategic government interventions prioritise farmer support and domestic production capacity.
CIMB Treasury predicts Bank Negara Malaysia will keep the overnight policy rate at 2.75% this Thursday, citing reduced inflation risks from falling oil prices and the BUDI Diesel programme's impact.