Bursa Opens Mildly Lower As Mixed Global Cues Weigh
The broader FBM70 fell 0.11% to 16,669.38, while FBMEMAS and FBMSHA slipped 0.07% and 0.09% respectively. Among the most active counters, TWL held steady at RM0.025 with strong volume, while GOCEAN remained unchanged at RM0.125. DNEX and ZETRIX edged higher by 0.5c to RM0.28 and 1c to RM0.94 respectively, on increased trade activity.
Markets were digesting fresh data from the US, where consumer inflation accelerated in June, pushing Wall Street lower; the S&P 500 and Dow slipped, although the Nasdaq climbed on strength in semiconductor stocks. Market attention has also turned to President Trump's indications of potential tariffs on pharmaceuticals and semiconductors from 1 August, balanced against hopes for new trade deals, including those with India and the EU.
Back home, investors remain attentive to June retail sales and domestic economic data, which could set the tone for Malaysian consumer-driven stocks. Meanwhile, the banking and plantation sectors continue to be influenced by global energy prices, with oil markets firming on renewed concerns over supply constraints.
The modest start underscores investor caution as they weigh tighter global financial conditions against regional growth prospects. Subsequent trading sessions are likely to hinge on Friday's release of Malaysian inflation data and further updates on US trade and tariff policies.
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