Latest news with #VincentLau
Borneo Post
4 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Sibu Chinese leaders' association's 20th anniversary, 11th committee installation set for June 8
SIBU (May 31): The Sibu Division Chinese Community Leaders Association will celebrate its 20th Anniversary and the installation of its 11th Committee with a banquet on June 8 at 7pm at Kingwood Hotel. Its president, Temenggong Dato Vincent Lau, at a press conference yesterday, announced that Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian will be the guest of honour for the evening. He said the association has extended invitations to all government departments it collaborates with in fulfilling its responsibilities to the community., as well as all Sibu elected representatives. 'We anticipate having approximately 90 tables. We are still waiting for confirmation from some of the guests invited to the celebration. 'We hope that this celebration, in a way, serves to honour those who founded the association and to acknowledge their contributions. 'Additionally, it should serve as motivation for current leaders to aim for improved, more effective performance or contributions to benefit our community,' Lau said. He said that one of the goals is to foster stronger ties between community leaders and the association with the public. To enhance accessibility, Lau noted that the association has launched both a Facebook page and a website, allowing the public to easily identify and reach out to their respective community leaders. 'In the past, we received feedback from individuals who were unaware of the local community leaders in their areas. Therefore, I believe it should now be quite easy to reach out to the community leaders in the area. 'This celebration also serves as a means to promote awareness on what the Chinese community leaders are doing,' he said. He added that a short video will be screened during the celebration to showcase the association's journey and achievements, alongside various stage performances. The event, originally scheduled for last year, was postponed due to unforeseen circumstances. Lau also addressed a minor issue encountered during the association's recent Annual General Meeting (AGM), where some individuals were inadvertently excluded from joining the new committee. 'It's unfortunate, and we are hopeful and optimistic that community leaders will continue to be as active and cooperative as they have been in the past. 'Our collective goal is to serve the community to the best of our abilities. We trust that any differences that may arise can be resolved. People shouldn't take it personally. 'And, you know, we need everyone, all community leaders, to collaborate, for the good of the community and the people in our society. 'As you know, community leaders act as a bridge between the government and the people. We'd like to see that we are able to perform this role effectively. So, it requires the cooperation of all the community leaders, to work together. 'Even though we have different political beliefs, different ideologies, we should not let that affect our unity and cooperation,' he said. Earlier, Lau mentioned that the association also works closely with both the District and Resident Offices on events requiring its support.
The Star
14-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
‘Good news' for bourse
PETALING JAYA: It was a much-needed boost for investors as the United States and China agreed to a trade truce, causing major equity markets to soar. The S&P 500 Index jumped 3.3%, notching its best day since April 9, while the Nasdaq 100 Index advanced 4%, nearly erasing its year-to-date losses. Similarly, Bursa Malaysia's FBM KLCI closed more than 2% higher yesterday, up 35.89 points to 1,582.39, fuelled by optimism over easing trade tensions between the world's two largest economies. The two countries agreed to temporarily reduce tariffs on each other's goods for 90 days. But is this a textbook recovery, or can the rally be sustained? Rakuten Trade head of equity sales Vincent Lau, who has always maintained a 'glass half full' stance on the tariff issue, said he had expected a deal within the timeframe of the original 90-day tariff pause announced on April 9. Reckoning that it is 'good news' for all concerned, Lau believes that with the latest developments, the FBM KLCI should be able to maintain its current level between 1,550 and 1,600 points, although the release of the latest inflation data in the United States overnight could still pose risks in the immediate term. 'As a whole, we think that there is still upside to the market, and we are confident it may trade between the 1,650 and 1,680 levels by year-end. 'This could be further enhanced by Washington's decision to rescind curbs on chip exports, which can only benefit Malaysia as one of the world's largest semiconductor exporters,' he told StarBiz. More pointedly, despite both the United States and China at present holding onto the aforementioned residual tariff levels, which critics say may still be escalated, Lau said it is more important to look at the bigger picture. 'It needs to start somewhere, and this de-escalation is a good beginning. Aside from the technology sector, we believe the IPO (initial public offering) market will also re-adopt a more risk-on position for now, as the environment has become more conducive,' he added. Trading platform Moomoo Malaysia head of dealing Ken Low said the tariff pause between Beijing and Washington has shown early signs of recalibration, particularly in export-sensitive sectors such as technology and manufacturing, which had been under pressure from earlier trade headwinds. However, he views the truce as more of a pause rather than a pivot and, as such, is anticipating a modest recovery for the FBM KLCI in the second half of 2025, assuming there are no major escalations in geopolitical tensions or monetary shocks. 'Our internal outlook suggests that the premier index may trend toward the 1,650 level by year-end. This temporary respite opens the door for more pragmatic negotiations and bilateral adjustments. 'Malaysia could benefit through trade diversion, supply chain reconfigurations, and enhanced engagement with both superpowers, particularly in technology, agriculture, and green energy cooperation,' he told StarBiz. According to Low, sectors that stand to gain the most from the trade agreement are technology and semiconductor, energy, financial services and plantation. Overall, analysts are mostly bullish on the much-anticipated trade agreement between the United States and China to lower tariffs on each other's products for the next 90 days. They view it as a major de-escalation between the world's two largest economies. In summary, under the agreement negotiated in Geneva between US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng over the past weekend, the United States will reduce additional tariffs on Chinese goods from 145% to 30%, while China will lower tariffs on US imports from 125% to 10%. Beijing will also suspend non-tariff barriers against Washington, which had effectively created a trade embargo. CIMB Securities, in a note to clients yesterday, called this a positive development as it represented a significant step toward de-escalating the tariff war that has severely dampened trade between the two countries. 'The scale of tariff reductions exceeded market expectations and is likely to raise investor risk appetite in the near term. 'The tariff cuts also offer immediate relief by allowing US and Chinese companies to increase trading activities, thereby reducing the risk of the US and global economies slipping into recession,' the note said. The research house added that reports that India and Pakistan have agreed to a US-backed ceasefire have also helped ease broader geopolitical concerns. That said, it cautioned that uncertainties persist regarding the outcome of the 90-day period and whether the current de-escalation will be sustained. 'Additionally, US tariffs on China, though reduced to 30%, remain significantly higher than the 10% tariff currently imposed on other trading partners,' CIMB Securities highlighted. > TURN TO PAGE 2 Notably, it said banks could benefit from the current arrangement, given their liquidity and role as direct proxies for the domestic economy, while the plantation sector may also gain from stronger global edible oil demand and higher crude oil prices if the broader economy improves. 'In the technology sector, easing trade tensions could support global semiconductor demand, while Malaysian technology players continue to retain a competitive edge, as US tariffs on Chinese goods remain higher compared with those imposed on Malaysian goods,' the brokerage noted. Meanwhile, MIDF Research was pleasantly surprised at the outcome of the trade talks between the two superpowers, as it had only expected an announcement of further negotiations, or at best, a partial tariff reduction. 'The reduction was better than our and market expectations, and a much welcomed de-escalation in our view,' it said. MIDF Research noted that uncertainty remains over where tariffs will ultimately settle and what the broader impact will be on global growth and central bank policy. 'We are still concerned that (persistent) uncertainty may weigh on business investment decisions. We expect that this may continue to drag on global economies. 'Hence, we are maintaining our base-case forecast of a 4% gross domestic product (GDP) growth for Malaysia this year,' the research unit added. Tradeview Capital chief investment officer Nixon Wong expressed hope that the latest trade agreement between the Trump administration and China is not merely an act of kicking the can down the road. Ideally, he called for more conclusive deals to be inked when the current agreement ends in August. 'Our year-end target for the FBM KLCI remains at 1,650 points. A lot of agreement details are still pending, and we believe it is not easy to manoeuvre given that significant trade imbalances between the two superpowers remain,' he said. As for the ringgit's performance, HSBC Global Research said it has turned slightly more constructive on the local unit, upgrading its year-end forecast from RM4.45 to RM4.20 against the US dollar. In a report dated May 9, it noted that elevated external volatility has likely tipped the balance slightly in favour of the local note over the medium term, as ongoing global uncertainty may prompt government-linked companies and government-linked investment companies to accelerate the repatriation of foreign earnings. The research house added that global market turmoil may slow foreign-exchange purchase for outward portfolio investments among Malaysians – previously a key source of depreciation pressure on the ringgit. The local note was trading at approximately 4.32 to the greenback at the time of writing yesterday, slightly weaker than the 4.29/4.30 seen on Monday.
The Sun
04-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Rakuten Trade revises fee structure for retail investors to make equity trading more affordable
PETALING JAYA: Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd, Malaysia's first fully digital broker, launched a newly revised brokerage fee structure, setting a new benchmark for affordability and accessibility for retail traders. With the new structure, clients can enjoy the lowest brokerage fees for trades valued up to RM9,999.99 when trading in ringgit and up to US$990 (RM4,230) for US market trades when trading in US dollar. 'We believe every Malaysian should be able to participate in the stock market without worrying about high fees,' said Rakuten Trade CEO Kazumasa Mise. 'As a digital broker, our role is to remove friction for investors, especially in today's volatile market environment, it's crucial that traders and new investors alike can manage their portfolios without being burdened by brokerage fees. This new brokerage revision reflects our continued focus on putting our customers first and making trading stocks more accessible.' As global markets continue to grapple with persistent volatility and shifting investor sentiment, Malaysian retail investors are seeking smarter, more cost-efficient ways to manage their portfolios. With the local stock market showing mixed signals amid external uncertainties – from the United States' global implementation of reciprocal tariffs to existing geopolitical tensions – retail participation has remained cautious. However, Rakuten Trade equity sales head, Vincent Lau opines that the local stock benchmark index is not expected to see new lows, unless the tariff war between the United States and China escalates further. 'There is not much negative news for Malaysia now, so the FBM KLCI should remain stable or trade sideways. The index is unlikely to see another sharp drop unless new catalysts emerge,' Lau said. He added that selected initial public offering (IPO) stocks that have dipped below their listing prices could present some opportunities, 'As we know, the IPO market is currently quite depressed, with many recent listings trading below their IPO prices. It may be worth looking into some of these names that are now undervalued.' The new brokerage rates, together with the recently launched amalgamated trades for the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq, are expected to significantly lower trading costs for Rakuten Trade clients and solidify the company as the ideal choice for a wide variety of investors, from day-traders to new investors. Rakuten Trade's dedication to uplifting retail investors extends beyond lower fees, by providing services ranging from educational resources and licensed analysts' trading calls from their equity sales team and research team to daily reports for market opportunities and webinars for exclusive insights into local companies.
New Straits Times
02-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Rakuten Trade cuts brokerage fees to boost retail participation
KUALA LUMPUR: Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd has unveiled a revised brokerage fee structure aimed at making equity trading more affordable for retail investors amid heightened market volatility. The fully digital broker said the new structure offers the lowest non-promotional brokerage fees for trades below RM10,000 in ringgit and up to US$990 in the United States (US) market when traded in US dollars. Chief executive officer Kazumasa Mise said the initiative reflects the company's focus on accessibility and affordability. "We believe every Malaysian should be able to participate in the stock market without worrying about high fees. In today's volatile market, it's crucial that investors can manage their portfolios without being burdened by brokerage costs," he said in a statement today. Rakuten Trade said the move comes at a time when Malaysian investors are navigating persistent global uncertainties, including tariff tensions between major economies and geopolitical risks. Its head of equity sales Vincent Lau said the local index is expected to remain stable unless the US-China trade conflict escalates further. He added initial public offering (IPO) stocks currently trading below their listing prices could offer value opportunities. "With many recent IPOs now trading below their offer prices, some names may be undervalued and worth revisiting," he said. The firm said the revised brokerage structure and newly introduced amalgamated trades for US markets are expected to lower entry barriers and attract a broader range of investors, including day-traders and first-timers.
Associated Press
31-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
From Hong Kong to Global: Laservall Drives New Industrialisation and Microelectronics Innovation with HKD 300M Investment
HKSTP park company Laservall aims to advance high-precision laser technology with AI-driven automation, empowering advanced manufacturing through microelectronics innovation HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 31 March 2025 - Laservall today announced a landmark HKD 300 million (USD 38 million) investment plan for the next five years. This strategic commitment focuses on R&D, manufacturing and technology enhancement, and tech talent development in Hong Kong. A key park company of the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), Laservall leverages Hong Kong's strategic role as the 'super-connector' between the Mainland and the global market to expand its investment for further operational advancement, benefiting from the city's comprehensive innovation and technology (I&T) ecosystem and supportive policies for new industrialisation. Laservall underscores its long-term investment in Hong Kong at an event co-organised with HKSTP, celebrating the significant R&D milestone and marking the company's expanding global footprint. Laservall today announced a landmark HKD 300 million (USD 38 million) investment plan for the next five years, celebrating the significant R&D milestone and marking the company's expanding global footprint at an event co-organised with HKSTP. (From left) Mr. Vincent Lau, COO of Laservall; Ms. Dembai Cho, Co-founder of Laservall; Mr. Jeffrey Chan, CFO of Laservall; Mr. Andrew Kim, CEO of Laservall; Mr. James Kang, Chairman of Laservall; Ms. Jaeyon Lee, Consul (Commerce), Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Hong Kong; Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology, and Industry; Ms. Lillian Cheong, Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry; Mr. Albert Wong, Chief Executive Officer of HKSTP; Mr. Oscar Wong, Head of Innofacturing of HKSTP; Ms Hilda Chan, Chief Marketing Officer of HKSTP, and Dr. Carmen Fung, Associate Director, Advanced Manufacturing and Microelectronics of HKSTP. The company is at the forefront of driving advanced manufacturing and microelectronics innovation, and is the exclusive provider for some leading global brands. Laservall specialises in micro laser jet soldering, cutting, and marking equipment for smartphone and EV camera modules. Its high-precision solutions and automation systems serve major global clients, including Samsung, LG, Tesla, BYD, and leading manufacturers such as Foxconn, Sunny Optical, Luxshare, and OFILM. Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, said, 'Laservall announces its plan of investing HKD 300 million over the next five years and doubling the size of its R&D team by 2026, and extending their R&D team eventually by sixfold by 2028. This not only reflects the company's commitment to innovation but also its unwavering confidence in Hong Kong's I&T industry. Its expansion at the Science Park is a perfect example of how it is leveraging Hong Kong's unique role as a 'super-connector' and a 'super value-adder' to strengthen its presence in the global market.' He expressed confidence that more local companies, like Laservall, will step onto the global I&T stage and demonstrate the remarkable outcomes of Hong Kong's R&D capabilities to the world in the near future. Albert Wong, CEO of HKSTP, remarked: 'Laservall's investment and growth exemplify the robust foundation Hong Kong provides for cutting-edge innovation. As the global leader in advanced manufacturing, the company's continued commitment to R&D and its expansion in Hong Kong further solidify our city as a powerhouse for microelectronics and advanced manufacturing. This milestone is not just a win for Laservall but a significant boost to strengthening our global standing in shaping the future of new industrialisation.' Laservall: A Key Catalyst of New Industrialisation at the Heart of the HKSTP I&T Powerhouse The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government is committed to advancing new industrialisation in Hong Kong with an industry-oriented approach to drive diversified economic growth. Comprehensive support is proactively provided to accelerate the development of strategic industries through initiatives such as the 'New Industrialisation Acceleration Scheme' (NIAS), 'New Industrialisation Funding Scheme' (NIFS), and the upcoming 'Pilot Manufacturing and Production Line Upgrade Support Scheme (Manufacturing+)'. The HKSAR Government is actively connecting high-potential local and overseas companies to seize the promising opportunities of new industralisation in Hong Kong. In August 2024, a delegation from the HKSAR Government visited Laservall's Smart R&D and Manufacturing Centre in Korea. The visit aimed to introduce various support measures to Laservall and strengthen collaboration on I&T between Hong Kong and Korea in strategic industries, including life and health technology, artificial intelligence and data science, advanced manufacturing, and new energy technology. James Kang, Chairman of Laservall, said: 'Laservall is proud to be a park company of HKSTP. We are a technology-focused company with significant R&D investment to tailor innovations for our clients globally. This investment will drive advancements in AI-driven automation, real-time troubleshooting, and efficiency improvements.' The company also aims to double its global R&D workforce by 2026 and expand it sixfold by 2028, reinforcing Hong Kong as its global R&D headquarters, with potential plan to set up an advanced production base in the city.' Andrew Kim, CEO of Laservall, said, 'The trend of utilising high-precision laser technology for camera modules is essential and rapidly gaining momentum across various industries. Hong Kong offers direct access to the vast Mainland market and international connectivity, supported by a robust I&T ecosystem, as well as favourable policies and measures for new industrialisation from the HKSAR Government and HKSTP. This gives us the confidence to expand our investments in the city, positioning us as pioneers of innovation for the next global success.' A New Chapter for Microelectronics Innovation from Hong Kong In March 2024, Laservall established an R&D centre at Science Park, focusing on customising its solutions for industries beyond mobile phone manufacturing, including the automotive and solar energy sectors. The integration of AI into manufacturing automation, combined with its commitment to advancing the microelectronics ecosystem, aligns seamlessly with HKSTP's mission to accelerate industry transformation and drive cutting-edge technological advancements. With 270 microelectronics-related companies within its ecosystem, HKSTP is at the forefront of microelectronics development, offering extensive infrastructure that supports the entire product lifecycle. This includes the Microelectronics Centre (MEC) at Yuen Long InnoPark, along with specialised facilities such as the Hardware Lab, Sensor Lab, and Heterogeneous Integration Lab. Hashtag: #HKSTP The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) was established in 2001 as a thriving I&T ecosystem grooming 14 unicorns, more than 15,000 research professionals and over 2,200 technology companies from 26 countries and regions focused on developing healthtech, AI and robotics, fintech and smart city technologies, etc. The growing engine offers comprehensive support including R&D infrastructure, investment expertise, industry connections and more, in attracting and nurturing talent, accelerating ideation, and commercialising innovation for technology ventures, all with the I&T journey built around key locations across Hong Kong and branched towards Shenzhen to continuously contribute to the development of I&T making a pillar of growth for Hong Kong.
